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Yan J, Li T, Ji K, Zhou X, Yao W, Zhou L, Huang P, Zhong K. Safranal alleviates pentetrazole-induced epileptic seizures in mice by inhibiting the NF-κB signaling pathway and mitochondrial-dependent apoptosis through GSK-3β inactivation. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2024; 333:118408. [PMID: 38823659 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2024.118408] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2024] [Revised: 05/27/2024] [Accepted: 05/28/2024] [Indexed: 06/03/2024]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Saffron, a traditional Chinese medicine, is derived from Crocus sativus L. stigmas and has been reported to possess neuroprotective properties and potentially contribute to the inhibition of apoptosis and inflammation. Safranal, a potent monothyral aldehyde, is a main component of saffron that has been reported to have antiepileptic activity. However, the specific mechanism by which safranal suppresses epileptic seizures via its antiapoptotic and anti-inflammatory properties is unclear. AIM To evaluate the effect of safranal on seizure severity, inflammation, and postictal neuronal apoptosis in a mouse model of pentetrazole (PTZ)-induced seizures and explore the underlying mechanism involved. MATERIALS AND METHODS The seizure stage and latency of stage 2 and 4 were quantified to assess the efficacy of safranal in mitigating PTZ-induced epileptic seizures in mice. Electroencephalography (EEG) was employed to monitor epileptiform afterdischarges in each experimental group. The cognitive abilities and motor functions of the mice were evaluated using the novel object recognition test and the open field test, respectively. Neurons were quantified using hematoxylin and eosin staining. Additionally, bioinformatics tools were utilized to predict the interactions between safranal and specific target proteins. Glycogen synthase kinase-3β (GSK-3β), mitochondrial apoptosis-related proteins, and inflammatory factor levels were analyzed through western blotting. Tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) and interleukin-1β (IL-1β) concentrations in brain tissue were assessed by ELISA. RESULTS Safranal decreased the average seizure stage and increased the lantency of stage 2 and 4 seizures in PTZ-induced epileptic mice. Additionally, safranal exhibited neuroprotective effects on hippocampal CA1 and CA3 neurons and reduced hyperactivity caused by postictal hyperexcitability. Bioinformatics analysis revealed that safranal can bind to five specific proteins, including GSK-3β. By promoting Ser9 phosphorylation and inhibiting GSK-3β activity, safranal effectively suppressed the NF-κB signaling pathway. Moreover, the findings indicate that safranal treatment can decrease TNF-α and IL-1β levels in the cerebral tissues of epileptic mice and downregulate mitochondrial apoptosis-related proteins, including Bcl-2, Bax, Bak, Caspase 9, and Caspase 3. CONCLUSION Safranal can suppress the NF-κB signaling pathway and mitochondrial-dependent apoptosis through GSK-3β inactivation, suggesting that it is a promising therapeutic agent for epilepsy treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jieping Yan
- Center for Clinical Pharmacy, Department of Pharmacy, Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital, Affiliated People's Hospital, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, 310014, China; Key Laboratory of Endocrine Gland Diseases of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, 310014, China
| | - Tingting Li
- Center for Clinical Pharmacy, Department of Pharmacy, Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital, Affiliated People's Hospital, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, 310014, China
| | - Kaiyue Ji
- Center for Clinical Pharmacy, Department of Pharmacy, Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital, Affiliated People's Hospital, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, 310014, China
| | - Xinyue Zhou
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medical Sciences and Forensic Medicine, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, 310014, China
| | - Weiyi Yao
- Center for Clinical Pharmacy, Department of Pharmacy, Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital, Affiliated People's Hospital, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, 310014, China; Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, 311121, China
| | - Liujing Zhou
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medical Sciences and Forensic Medicine, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, 310014, China
| | - Ping Huang
- Center for Clinical Pharmacy, Department of Pharmacy, Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital, Affiliated People's Hospital, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, 310014, China; Key Laboratory of Endocrine Gland Diseases of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, 310014, China.
| | - Kai Zhong
- Center for Clinical Pharmacy, Department of Pharmacy, Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital, Affiliated People's Hospital, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, 310014, China; Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medical Sciences and Forensic Medicine, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, 310014, China.
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Mahdavi M, Ghaderi A, Hazegh P, Baseri MHK, Vahed N, Nazemi S, Aghajani A, Ghoreishi FS, Sadeghi-Gandomani H, Kashani AT. Oral supplementation with crocin (a constituent of saffron) in subjects with cigarette smoking: a clinical trial. NAUNYN-SCHMIEDEBERG'S ARCHIVES OF PHARMACOLOGY 2024; 397:5689-5699. [PMID: 38294505 DOI: 10.1007/s00210-024-02970-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2023] [Accepted: 01/18/2024] [Indexed: 02/01/2024]
Abstract
Smoking is one of the main causes of death in the world. Cigarette use is related with various components of metabolic syndrome (e.g., insulin resistance, raised blood pressure, dyslipidemia, oxidative stress, inflammation state) and psychiatric disorders. This study was conducted to determine the effect of crocin (Cro) supplementation on nicotine dependence, anxiety, depression, and metabolic indices in smokers. A total of 50 smokers were selected and randomly categorized into two groups (crocin and placebo). The intervention group received crocin (30 mg per day; n = 25) and placebo (containing Avicel; n = 25) once a day. The primary (nicotine dependence, depression, and anxiety inventory) and secondary (metabolic indices) outcomes were assessed at the start of the intervention and after the 3 months. Multiple linear regression models were used to assess the treatment effects on the outcomes adjusting for confounding variables. The primary outcome results such as nicotine dependence, depression, and anxiety inventory did not have a significant difference among the intervention groups (P > 0.05). Also in the secondary outcomes, fasting plasma glucose (FPG), insulin, and homeostasis model of assessment-insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) levels did indicate a significant difference by Cro intervention (β - 3.27 mg/dL; 95% CI, - 5.23, - 1.31; P = 0.002; β - 0.76 μIU/mL; 95% CI, - 1.38, - 0.15; P = 0.01; β - 0.18; 95% CI, - 0.29, - 0.07; P = 0.002), respectively. There were also significant reductions in serum levels of high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) (β - 0.72 mg/L; 95% CI, - 1.37, - 0.07; P = 0.03), compared with the placebo. Cro intake may have favorable effects on the level of FPG, insulin, HOMA-IR, and hs-CRP in smokers. However, due to the small sample size and limited scientific reports on smokers, further studies are necessary. ClinicalTrial.gov Identifier: IRCT20170420033551N11.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mojtaba Mahdavi
- Department of Addiction Studies, School of Medical, Kashan University of Medical Sciences, Kashan, Iran
| | - Amir Ghaderi
- Department of Addiction Studies, School of Medical, Kashan University of Medical Sciences, Kashan, Iran.
- Clinical Research Development Unit-Matini, Kargarnejad Hospital, Kashan University of Medical Sciences, Kashan, Iran.
| | - Pooya Hazegh
- Department of Psychiatry, Kashan University of Medical Sciences, Kashan, Iran
| | - Mohammad Hassan Karimipour Baseri
- Department of Neuroscience and Addiction Studies, School of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Neda Vahed
- Research Center for Addiction and Risky Behaviors (ReCARB), Psychosocial Health Research Institute, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Shekoofeh Nazemi
- Student Research Committee, Kashan University of Medical Sciences, Kashan, Iran
| | - Ali Aghajani
- Department of Parasitology and Mycology, Faculty of Medicine, Kashan University of Medical Sciences, Kashan, Iran
| | | | - Hamidreza Sadeghi-Gandomani
- Department of Nursing, Borujen Faculty of Nursing, Shahrekord University of Medical Sciences, Shahrekord, Iran
| | - Amene Taghdisi Kashani
- Student Research Committee, Kashan University of Medical Sciences, Kashan, Iran.
- Department of Pediatric, Faculty of Dentistry, Kashan University of Medical Sciences, Kashan, Iran.
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Rashid M, Rashid R, Saroya S, Deverapalli M, Brim H, Ashktorab H. Saffron as a Promising Therapy for Inflammatory Bowel Disease. Nutrients 2024; 16:2353. [PMID: 39064796 PMCID: PMC11280066 DOI: 10.3390/nu16142353] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2024] [Revised: 07/15/2024] [Accepted: 07/16/2024] [Indexed: 07/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a chronic inflammatory illness of the gastrointestinal tract (GI), characterized by recurrent episodes of inflammation and tissue destruction. It affects an increasing number of individuals worldwide who suffer from Crohn's disease (CD) or ulcerative colitis (UC). Despite substantial advances in understanding the underlying causes of IBD, the available treatments remain restricted and are sometimes accompanied by severe consequences. Consequently, there is an urgent need to study alternate therapeutic options. This review assesses the present drugs, identifies their limitations, and proposes the use of saffron, a natural plant with great therapeutic potential based on preclinical and clinical investigations. Saffron has gained attention for its potential therapeutic benefits in treating various ailments due to its established bioactive compounds possessing antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. This review covers how saffron impacts the levels of calprotectin, an inflammatory marker, for various inflammatory responses in multiple diseases including IBD. Data from clinical trials were assessed to determine the efficacy and safety of using saffron to counter inflammation in multiple diseases. Studies have shown that saffron may protect against inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) through several mechanisms by inhibiting pro-inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6), reducing oxidative stress through antioxidant effects, enhancing mucosal barrier function by upregulating tight junction proteins, and modulating the gut microbiota composition to promote beneficial bacteria while suppressing pathogenic ones; these combined actions contribute to its therapeutic potential in managing and alleviating the symptoms of IBD. This will enable future research endeavors and expedite the translation of saffron-based interventions into clinical practice as a valuable adjunctive therapy or a potential alternative to conventional treatments, thereby enhancing the quality of life for individuals suffering from inflammatory diseases including IBD.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Hassan Ashktorab
- Department of Medicine and Cancer Center, Howard University College of Medicine, Washington, DC 20059, USA; (M.R.); (R.R.); (S.S.); (M.D.); (H.B.)
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Naraki K, Ghasemzadeh Rahbardar M, Razavi BM, Aminifar T, Khajavi Rad A, Amoueian S, Hosseinzadeh H. The power of trans-sodium crocetinate: exploring its renoprotective effects in a rat model of colistin-induced nephrotoxicity. NAUNYN-SCHMIEDEBERG'S ARCHIVES OF PHARMACOLOGY 2024:10.1007/s00210-024-03259-5. [PMID: 38995374 DOI: 10.1007/s00210-024-03259-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2024] [Accepted: 06/23/2024] [Indexed: 07/13/2024]
Abstract
Colistin, a multidrug-resistant gram-negative bacterial infection medication, has been associated with renal impairment and failure. Trans-sodium crocetinate (TSC), a saffron-derived chemical recognized for its antioxidant and nephroprotective properties, was studied in this study to determine its potential to alleviate the nephrotoxic effects of colistin. Forty-two male Wistar rats were randomly classified into seven groups (n = 6): (1) control (normal saline, 12 days, i.p.), (2) colistin (22 mg/kg, 7 days, i.p.), (3-5) colistin + TSC (25, 50, and 100 mg/kg, 12 days, i.p., starting from 5 days before colistin), (6) TSC (100 mg/kg, 12 days, i.p.), (7) colistin + vitamin E (100 IU/kg, 12 days, i.p). On day 13, the rats were euthanized and the serum content of creatinine, BUN, Na+, and K+, as well as oxidative stress (GSH, MDA, SOD, CAT), inflammatory (IL-1β), apoptotic (Bax, Bcl-2, caspase-3, 8, 9), and autophagy (Beclin-1, LC3) markers, NGAL, and histopathological changes in the kidney were measured. Colistin significantly increased serum creatinine, BUN, MDA, IL-1β, caspase-3,8,9, Bax, Beclin-1, LC3, and NGAL levels in kidney tissue. It also caused inflammation, focal necrosis of tubular epithelial cells, protein cast, and acute tubular necrosis. Furthermore, colistin decreased SOD, CAT, GSH, and Bcl-2 levels. TSC and vitamin E administration along with colistin restored most of the alterations induced by colistin. Overall, it could be concluded that colistin induces oxidative stress, inflammation, autophagy, and apoptosis, which can cause kidney injury. However, TSC can also be used as a therapeutic agent to reduce injuries caused by colistin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karim Naraki
- Department of Pharmacodynamics and Toxicology, School of Pharmacy, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | | | - Bibi Marjan Razavi
- Department of Pharmacodynamics and Toxicology, School of Pharmacy, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
- Targeted Drug Delivery Research Center, Pharmaceutical Technology Institute, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Tahereh Aminifar
- Department of Pharmacodynamics and Toxicology, School of Pharmacy, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Abolfazl Khajavi Rad
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
- Applied Biomedical Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Sakineh Amoueian
- Pathology Department, Emam Reza Hospital, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Hossein Hosseinzadeh
- Department of Pharmacodynamics and Toxicology, School of Pharmacy, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran.
- Pharmaceutical Research Center, Pharmaceutical Technology Institute, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran.
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Chen S, Lv Q, Liu C, Yuan H, Li C, Liu Y, Zhang W. Optimization of Extraction and Purification of Flavonoids from Stigmaless Floral Residues of Crocus sativus L. and Their Stimulatory Effect on Glucose Uptake In Vitro. Molecules 2024; 29:3271. [PMID: 39064849 PMCID: PMC11279114 DOI: 10.3390/molecules29143271] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2024] [Revised: 07/02/2024] [Accepted: 07/06/2024] [Indexed: 07/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Saffron, the dried stigma of Crocus sativus L., is a renowned spice and medicinal herb. During its production, a significant amount of floral residues, rich in bioactive compounds, are discarded as agricultural by-products. This study presents a novel approach to the sustainable utilization of these stigmaless floral residues (FRC) by optimizing the extraction and purification of their flavonoids, analyzing their chemical composition, and evaluating their effect on glucose uptake. The extraction of flavonoids from FRC was optimized using single-factor experiments and response surface methodology. The optimal conditions for extraction were an ethanol concentration of 67.7%, a temperature of 67.6 °C, a solid-to-liquid ratio of 1:30, an extraction time of 3 h, and two extractions. The crude extract obtained was then purified using macroporous resin HPD100, selected after comparing the adsorption and desorption characteristics of six different resins. The optimal purification parameters were an adsorption concentration of 40 mg/mL, a loading volume of 7 bed volumes (BV) at a flow rate of 3 BV/h, and 80% ethanol as the eluent with a volume of 4 BV. The resulting flavonoid-enriched extract (FFRC) had an experimental yield of 8.67% ± 0.01 and a flavonoid content of 128.30 ± 4.64 mg/g. The main flavonoids in FFRC were identified as kaempferol glycosides, isorhamnetin glycosides, and quercetin glycosides. Moreover, FFRC significantly stimulated glucose consumption and uptake in C2C12 myotubes, suggesting its potential utility as a natural hypoglycemic agent. This study contributes to the sustainable and value-added utilization of agricultural resources by providing data for the exploitation and application of flavonoids from saffron by-products.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sunce Chen
- School of Life Sciences, East China Normal University, 500 Dongchuan Road, Shanghai 200241, China; (S.C.); (Q.L.); (H.Y.); (C.L.); (Y.L.)
- Wenzhou Student Practical School, 1111 Fuzhou Road, Wenzhou 325000, China
| | - Quanhe Lv
- School of Life Sciences, East China Normal University, 500 Dongchuan Road, Shanghai 200241, China; (S.C.); (Q.L.); (H.Y.); (C.L.); (Y.L.)
| | - Chunhui Liu
- China National Institute of Standardization, 4 Zhichun Road, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Hongxia Yuan
- School of Life Sciences, East China Normal University, 500 Dongchuan Road, Shanghai 200241, China; (S.C.); (Q.L.); (H.Y.); (C.L.); (Y.L.)
| | - Chunfei Li
- School of Life Sciences, East China Normal University, 500 Dongchuan Road, Shanghai 200241, China; (S.C.); (Q.L.); (H.Y.); (C.L.); (Y.L.)
| | - Yifan Liu
- School of Life Sciences, East China Normal University, 500 Dongchuan Road, Shanghai 200241, China; (S.C.); (Q.L.); (H.Y.); (C.L.); (Y.L.)
| | - Wen Zhang
- School of Life Sciences, East China Normal University, 500 Dongchuan Road, Shanghai 200241, China; (S.C.); (Q.L.); (H.Y.); (C.L.); (Y.L.)
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Tong Z, Liu X, Tao Y, Feng P, Luan F, Jie X, Xie Z, Pu F, Xu Z, Wang P. Enhancement of dissolution and oral bioavailability by adjusting microenvironment pH in crocetin ternary solid dispersions: Optimization, characterization, in vitro evaluation, and pharmacokinetics. Drug Deliv Transl Res 2024; 14:1923-1939. [PMID: 38117406 DOI: 10.1007/s13346-023-01497-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/11/2023] [Indexed: 12/21/2023]
Abstract
The most promising active ingredient of Crocus sativus L., crocetin (CCT), has been demonstrated to possess many biological activities. However, only a few studies have been conducted on CCT formulation, especially in oral formulation, mainly due to its insolubility in water, which limits its application for oral administration. This article reports an equilibrium saturation solubility and single-pass intestinal perfusion studies conducted to classify the biopharmaceutics classification system (BCS) of CCT. To enhance in vitro dissolution and in vivo oral bioavailability, ternary solid dispersions of CCT (CCT-SDs) with soluplus (SOL) as hydrophilic carrier and meglumine (MEG) as alkalizer were optimized using response surface methodology (RSM) with central composite design (CCD) experiments. Four different preparation methods were evaluated using the optimal formulation, including solvent evaporation, ball milling, spray drying, and freeze-drying. Prepared formulations were characterized by TG-DSC, FTIR, X-RPD, and SEM; the pharmacokinetic studies were performed in rats after oral administration. The cumulative dissolution rate of CCT-SDs containing SOL and MEG prepared by the ball milling method was 97.1% at 15 min and remained at 95.6% at 480 min, which was significantly higher than that of untreated CCT. The lower crystallinity, smaller particle size, and higher microenvironment pH (pHM) were observed in CCT-SDs prepared by the ball milling method. In vivo absorption of CCT-SDs (Cmax = 52.789 ± 12.441 μg/mL and AUC0-12 = 191.748 ± 35.043 μg/mL·h) was greater than untreated CCT (Cmax = 5.918 ± 1.388 μg/mL and AUC0-12 = 44.309 ± 7.264 μg/mL·h). In conclusion, the current study provides ternary solid dispersion formulation of CCT to increase the in vitro dissolution and in vivo bioavailability, which will benefit the commercial production and future clinical applications of CCT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zheren Tong
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou, 310014, China
| | - Xianyin Liu
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Jiangxi Medical College, Shangrao, 334000, China
| | - Yi Tao
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou, 310014, China
| | - Peishi Feng
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou, 310014, China
| | - Fujia Luan
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Jiangxi Medical College, Shangrao, 334000, China
| | - Xiaolu Jie
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou, 310014, China
| | - Zhangfu Xie
- Zhejiang Suichang Liming Pharmaceutical Co., LTD, Suichang, 323300, China
| | - Faxiang Pu
- Zhejiang Suichang Liming Pharmaceutical Co., LTD, Suichang, 323300, China
| | - Zijin Xu
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Jiangxi Medical College, Shangrao, 334000, China.
| | - Ping Wang
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou, 310014, China.
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Li X, Song J, Tan J, Zhang D, Guan Y, Geng F, Yang M, Pei J, Ma H. "Plant Golden" C. sativus: Qualitative and quantitative analysis of major components in stigmas and petals and their biological activity in vitro. J Pharm Biomed Anal 2024; 243:116115. [PMID: 38513497 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpba.2024.116115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2024] [Revised: 02/19/2024] [Accepted: 03/15/2024] [Indexed: 03/23/2024]
Abstract
Crocus sativus L. (C. sativus) has its stigma as the main valuable part used. With extremely low production and high prices, stigma is considered a scarce resource. As a result, its petals, considered as by-products, are often discarded, leading to significant waste. We developed a UPLC-Q-Orbitrap HRMS method for qualitative analysis of stigmas and petals and a UHPLC-QQQ-MS/MS method for simultaneous quantification of 9 characteristic active compounds for the first time, and compared their biological activity in vitro. The results indicated that a total of 63 compounds were identified in the petals and stigmas. The content of flavonoids in the petals was significantly superior to that in the stigma, and the content of quercetin in the petals was 50 times higher than that in the stigma. The results of the in vitro evaluation of biological activity indicated that both the petals (•OH: IC50=39.70 mg/mL; DPPH: IC50=28.37 mg/mL; ABTS: IC50=0.9868 mg/mL)and stigma (•OH: IC50=34.41 mg/mL; DPPH: IC50=38.99 mg/mL; ABTS: IC50=3.194 mg/mL)demonstrated comparable antioxidant activities. However, the tyrosinase inhibitory activity in petals (IC50=21.17 mg/mL) was weaker than that in stigma(IC50=1.488 mg/mL). This study provides a fast, reliable, and efficient analytical method that can be used for the quality assessment of petals as a natural resource and its related products in the food and pharmaceutical industries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xue Li
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, Pharmacy School, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu 611137, China
| | - Jiao Song
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, Pharmacy School, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu 611137, China
| | - Jin Tan
- Gooddoctor Pharmaceutical Group Co.,Ltd., Chengdu, Sichuan 610073, China
| | - Dingkun Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, Pharmacy School, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu 611137, China
| | - Yongmei Guan
- State key Laboratory of Innovation Medicine and High Efficiency and Energy Saving Pharmaceutical Equipment, Jiangxi University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Nanchang 330004, China
| | - Funeng Geng
- Gooddoctor Pharmaceutical Group Co.,Ltd., Chengdu, Sichuan 610073, China
| | - Ming Yang
- State key Laboratory of Innovation Medicine and High Efficiency and Energy Saving Pharmaceutical Equipment, Jiangxi University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Nanchang 330004, China
| | - Jin Pei
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, Pharmacy School, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu 611137, China.
| | - Hongyan Ma
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, Pharmacy School, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu 611137, China.
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Hasheminasab FS, Azimi M, Raeiszadeh M. Therapeutic effects of saffron (Crocus sativus L) on female reproductive system disorders: A systematic review. Phytother Res 2024; 38:2832-2846. [PMID: 38558480 DOI: 10.1002/ptr.8186] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2023] [Revised: 02/25/2024] [Accepted: 03/02/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024]
Abstract
The effect of Crocus sativus on several disorders has been discussed or even confirmed, but the efficacy of this herb on the female reproductive system has not been well presented. In this regard, this systematic review comprehensively discussed the efficacy of C. sativus and its main phytochemical compounds on the female reproductive system and its disorders for the first time. In this systematic review, scientific databases, including PubMed, Web of Sciences, Google Scholar, Scopus, and Scientific Information Database, were explored profoundly. In vivo, in vitro, and human studies published until the end of July 2023, which had investigated the pharmacological properties of C. sativus, crocin, crocetin, safranal, or picrocrocin on the female reproductive system, were selected. A total of 50 studies conducted on the effect of C. sativus on the female reproductive system were acquired. These studies confirmed the efficacy of C. sativus or its main phytochemical ingredients in several aspects of the female reproductive system, including regulation of sex hormones, folliculogenesis, ovulation, and protection of the ovary and uterus against several oxidative stress. Several retrieved studies indicated that this herb also can alleviate the symptoms of patients suffering from dysmenorrhea, premenstrual syndrome, menopause, polycystic ovary disease (PCOD), and sexual dysfunction. Furthermore, it is a promising candidate for future studies or even trials regarding ovarian and cervical cancers. This review concluded that C. sativus can improve the symptoms of several female reproductive system disorders, which is particularly due to the presence of phytochemical ingredients, such as crocin, crocetin, and safranal.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Maryam Azimi
- Gastroenterology and Hepatology Research Center, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Mahboobeh Raeiszadeh
- Herbal and Traditional Medicines Research Center, Kerman university of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
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Han S, Cao Y, Wu X, Xu J, Nie Z, Qiu Y. New horizons for the study of saffron (Crocus sativus L.) and its active ingredients in the management of neurological and psychiatric disorders: A systematic review of clinical evidence and mechanisms. Phytother Res 2024; 38:2276-2302. [PMID: 38424688 DOI: 10.1002/ptr.8110] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2023] [Revised: 11/27/2023] [Accepted: 12/16/2023] [Indexed: 03/02/2024]
Abstract
Saffron (Crocus sativus), as an herbal medicine, has been extensively investigated for treating neurological and psychiatric disorders. This systematic review aimed to assess the overall effects of saffron on cognition, depression, anxiety, sleep disorders, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). Relevant randomized controlled trials (RCTs) were identified by searching PubMed/Medline, Web of Science, and Clinical Trials databases up to June 2023 according to search terms and inclusion criteria. The participants were either healthy or suffering from some diseases, including neurological and psychiatric disorders, and consumed saffron or its extracts as an intervention. The risk of bias was assessed according to the Cochrane guidelines, and the PRISMA statement was followed. The meta-analysis was performed using RevMan and STATA software. A random-effects or fixed-effects model was used to calculate the pooled effect sizes. Forty-six RCTs were enrolled, and the duration of these trials ranged from 4 to 48 weeks with saffron or its extracts, both alone or in combination with conventional drugs. Saffron was more effective than placebo in improving cognition, depression with an overall effect size of -4.26 (95% CI: -5.76, -2.77), anxiety of -3.75 (95% CI: -5.83, -1.67), and sleep disorders of -1.91 (95% CI: -2.88, -0.93). Saffron was non-inferior to conventional drugs for treating cognitive disorders, depression, anxiety, ADHD, and OCD, and it exhibited good tolerance with few side effects. Saffron may exert protective roles for neurological and psychiatric disorders and represents a relatively favorable and safe treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shufen Han
- Department of Nutrition and Toxicology, School of Public Health, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, People's Republic of China
| | - Yifei Cao
- Department of Nutrition and Toxicology, School of Public Health, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, People's Republic of China
| | - Xingrong Wu
- Male Department of General Psychiatry, Shanxi Provincial Mental Health Center and Taiyuan Psychiatric Hospital, Taiyuan, Shanxi, People's Republic of China
| | - Jiaoyang Xu
- Department of Nutrition and Toxicology, School of Public Health, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, People's Republic of China
| | - Zizheng Nie
- Department of Nutrition and Toxicology, School of Public Health, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, People's Republic of China
| | - Yue Qiu
- Department of Nutrition and Toxicology, School of Public Health, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, People's Republic of China
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Goyal A, Raza FA, Sulaiman SA, Shahzad A, Aaqil SI, Iqbal M, Javed B, Pokhrel P. Saffron extract as an emerging novel therapeutic option in reproduction and sexual health: recent advances and future prospectives. Ann Med Surg (Lond) 2024; 86:2856-2865. [PMID: 38694315 PMCID: PMC11060205 DOI: 10.1097/ms9.0000000000002013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2023] [Accepted: 03/19/2024] [Indexed: 05/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Saffron, derived from Crocus sativus, is gaining research attention for potential therapeutic applications. Its diverse clinical applications extend to cardiovascular health, diabetes management, sleep quality, psychiatric illnesses, and rheumatoid arthritis. Saffron's positive effects on blood pressure, glucose levels, cognitive function, and inflammatory markers contribute to its versatility. Additionally, carotenoids like crocin and crocetin suggest anti-cancer potential. In terms of reproductive health, saffron's impact on male reproductive health shows conflicting findings on semen parameters. However, in female reproductive health, saffron appears promising for managing dysmenorrhoea, reducing menstrual pain, regulating hormonal fluctuations, and improving overall menstrual health. Safety considerations highlight the importance of adhering to specified dosages, as excessive intake may lead to toxicity. Yet, within the therapeutic range, saffron is considered safe, relieving symptoms without serious side effects, according to clinical research. Future trials in 2023 will explore saffron's potential in cancer therapy, diabetes management, mental health, stress response, cardiovascular health, postmenopausal women's well-being, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). This ongoing research underscores saffron's adaptability and promise as a natural treatment across various medical applications, emphasizing its efficacy. The current review, therefore, aims to provide up-to-date insights on saffron's role particularly in the realm of reproductive health, contributing to a growing body of evidence supporting its diverse therapeutic benefits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aman Goyal
- Department of Internal Medicine, Seth GS Medical College and KEM Hospital, Mumbai
| | - Fatima Ali Raza
- Department of Internal Medicine, Karachi Medical and Dental College
| | - Samia Aziz Sulaiman
- Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Jordan, Amman, Jordan
| | - Abeer Shahzad
- Department of Internal Medicine, Dow Medical College
| | - Syeda Ilsa Aaqil
- Department of Internal Medicine, Jinnah Sindh Medical University, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Mahrukh Iqbal
- Department of Internal Medicine, Karachi Medical and Dental College
| | - Binish Javed
- Department of Internal Medicine, Atal Bihari Vajpayee Institute of Medical Sciences & Dr. Ram Manohar LohiaHospital, New Delhi,India
| | - Prakriti Pokhrel
- Department of Internal Medicine, Kathmandu Medical College and Teaching Hospital, Sinamangal, Kathmandu Nepal
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Zhang Y, Gao J, Li N, Xu P, Qu S, Cheng J, Wang M, Li X, Song Y, Xiao F, Yang X, Liu J, Hong H, Mu R, Li X, Wang Y, Xu H, Xie Y, Gao T, Wang G, Aa J. Targeting cAMP in D1-MSNs in the nucleus accumbens, a new rapid antidepressant strategy. Acta Pharm Sin B 2024; 14:667-681. [PMID: 38322327 PMCID: PMC10840425 DOI: 10.1016/j.apsb.2023.12.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2023] [Revised: 09/11/2023] [Accepted: 11/14/2023] [Indexed: 02/08/2024] Open
Abstract
Studies have suggested that the nucleus accumbens (NAc) is implicated in the pathophysiology of major depression; however, the regulatory strategy that targets the NAc to achieve an exclusive and outstanding anti-depression benefit has not been elucidated. Here, we identified a specific reduction of cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) in the subset of dopamine D1 receptor medium spiny neurons (D1-MSNs) in the NAc that promoted stress susceptibility, while the stimulation of cAMP production in NAc D1-MSNs efficiently rescued depression-like behaviors. Ketamine treatment enhanced cAMP both in D1-MSNs and dopamine D2 receptor medium spiny neurons (D2-MSNs) of depressed mice, however, the rapid antidepressant effect of ketamine solely depended on elevating cAMP in NAc D1-MSNs. We discovered that a higher dose of crocin markedly increased cAMP in the NAc and consistently relieved depression 24 h after oral administration, but not a lower dose. The fast onset property of crocin was verified through multicenter studies. Moreover, crocin specifically targeted at D1-MSN cAMP signaling in the NAc to relieve depression and had no effect on D2-MSN. These findings characterize a new strategy to achieve an exclusive and outstanding anti-depression benefit by elevating cAMP in D1-MSNs in the NAc, and provide a potential rapid antidepressant drug candidate, crocin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yue Zhang
- Jiangsu Provincial Key Laboratory of Drug Metabolism and Pharmacokinetics, State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, Research Unit of PK–PD Based Bioactive Components and Pharmacodynamic Target Discovery of Natural Medicine of Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Jingwen Gao
- Jiangsu Provincial Key Laboratory of Drug Metabolism and Pharmacokinetics, State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, Research Unit of PK–PD Based Bioactive Components and Pharmacodynamic Target Discovery of Natural Medicine of Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Na Li
- Jiangsu Provincial Key Laboratory of Drug Metabolism and Pharmacokinetics, State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, Research Unit of PK–PD Based Bioactive Components and Pharmacodynamic Target Discovery of Natural Medicine of Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Peng Xu
- Key Laboratory of Drug Monitoring and Control, Drug Intelligence and Forensic Center, Ministry of Public Security, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Shimeng Qu
- Jiangsu Provincial Key Laboratory of Drug Metabolism and Pharmacokinetics, State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, Research Unit of PK–PD Based Bioactive Components and Pharmacodynamic Target Discovery of Natural Medicine of Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Jinqian Cheng
- Jiangsu Provincial Key Laboratory of Drug Metabolism and Pharmacokinetics, State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, Research Unit of PK–PD Based Bioactive Components and Pharmacodynamic Target Discovery of Natural Medicine of Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Mingrui Wang
- School of Pharmacy, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China
| | - Xueru Li
- School of Foreign Languages, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China
| | - Yaheng Song
- Jiangsu Provincial Key Laboratory of Drug Metabolism and Pharmacokinetics, State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, Research Unit of PK–PD Based Bioactive Components and Pharmacodynamic Target Discovery of Natural Medicine of Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Fan Xiao
- Jiangsu Provincial Key Laboratory of Drug Metabolism and Pharmacokinetics, State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, Research Unit of PK–PD Based Bioactive Components and Pharmacodynamic Target Discovery of Natural Medicine of Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Xinyu Yang
- Department of Neurobiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China
| | - Jihong Liu
- Department of Neurobiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China
| | - Hao Hong
- Department of Pharmacology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China
| | - Ronghao Mu
- Department of Pharmacology, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 211198, China
| | - Xiaotian Li
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, China
| | - Youmei Wang
- Key Laboratory of Drug Monitoring and Control, Drug Intelligence and Forensic Center, Ministry of Public Security, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Hui Xu
- Jiangsu Provincial Key Laboratory of Drug Metabolism and Pharmacokinetics, State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, Research Unit of PK–PD Based Bioactive Components and Pharmacodynamic Target Discovery of Natural Medicine of Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Yuan Xie
- Jiangsu Provincial Key Laboratory of Drug Metabolism and Pharmacokinetics, State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, Research Unit of PK–PD Based Bioactive Components and Pharmacodynamic Target Discovery of Natural Medicine of Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Tianming Gao
- Department of Neurobiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China
| | - Guangji Wang
- Jiangsu Provincial Key Laboratory of Drug Metabolism and Pharmacokinetics, State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, Research Unit of PK–PD Based Bioactive Components and Pharmacodynamic Target Discovery of Natural Medicine of Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Jiye Aa
- Jiangsu Provincial Key Laboratory of Drug Metabolism and Pharmacokinetics, State Key Laboratory of Natural Medicines, Research Unit of PK–PD Based Bioactive Components and Pharmacodynamic Target Discovery of Natural Medicine of Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing 210009, China
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Amatto PDPG, Chaves L, Braga GG, Carmona F, Pereira AMS. Effect of Crocus sativus L. (saffron) and crocin in the treatment of patients with type-2 diabetes mellitus: A systematic review and meta-analysis. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2024; 319:117255. [PMID: 37778521 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2023.117255] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2023] [Revised: 08/30/2023] [Accepted: 09/28/2023] [Indexed: 10/03/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Crocus sativus L. (saffron, Iridaceae) has been traditionally used for thousands of years as herbal medicine for many diseases, including type-2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), especially in Sri Lanka. Systematic reviews and meta-analysis on C. sativus for T2DM value traditional knowledge about this species. AIM OF THE STUDY To assess the effectiveness of C. sativus powdered plant, hydroethanolic extract and crocin in reducing fasting blood sugar (FBG), glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c), blood pressure, and other metabolic parameters in patients with T2DM. MATERIAL AND METHODS Systematic review and meta-analysis based on searches in PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane, including all randomized clinical trials (RCTs) published before January 2, 2023. Two independent reviewers extracted the data and assessed the risks of bias. The effects of C. sativus and crocin were assessed on glycemic, metabolic, and blood pressure parameters. Weighted (WMD) or standardized (SMD) mean differences (before-after) and 95% confidence intervals (95%CI) of the outcomes were extracted or estimated and meta-analyses were conducted using RevMan 5.4 (Cochrane Collaboration). This protocol was registered in PROSPERO (#CRD42023390073). RESULTS Fifteen of 29 studies were included. Saffron powdered plant decreased AST (WMD -1.19, 95%CI -2.24, -0.13), but increased BMI (WMD 0.56, 95%CI 0.07, 1.05); saffron extract decreased HbA1c (WMD -0.35, 95%CI -0.65, -0.06), FBG (WMD -26.90, 95%CI -38.87, -14.93), creatinine (WMD -0.12, 95%CI -0.19, -0.05), and total cholesterol (WMD -9.29, 95%CI -18.25, -0.33); and crocin decreased HbA1c (WMD -0.43, 95%CI -0.66, -0.20), FBG (WMD -14.10, 95%CI -22.91, -5.30), and systolic blood pressure (WMD -8.18, 95%CI -12.75, -3.61), but increased creatinine levels (WMD 0.24, 95%CI 0.17, 0.32). Of the 15 included studies, 14 had a moderate risk of bias, and one study had a low risk of bias. CONCLUSION C. sativus (saffron) powdered plant, extract, and crocin have potential as an adjunct treatment for T2DM, improving control of metabolic and clinical parameters. However, C. sativus extract seems to be superior because it was effective in more parameters and did not induce adverse effects. Since many studies were at moderate risk of bias, further high-quality research is needed to firmly establish the clinical efficacy of this plant.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pedro de Padua G Amatto
- Departamento de Biotecnologia em Plantas Medicinais, Universidade de Ribeirão Preto, 14096-900, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil.
| | - Lucas Chaves
- Faculdade de Medicina de Ribeirão Preto, Universidade de São Paulo, 14049-900, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil.
| | - Giovana Graça Braga
- Departamento de Biotecnologia em Plantas Medicinais, Universidade de Ribeirão Preto, 14096-900, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil; Faculdade de Ciências Farmacêuticas de Ribeirão Preto, Universidade de São Paulo, 14040-903, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil.
| | - Fábio Carmona
- Faculdade de Medicina de Ribeirão Preto, Universidade de São Paulo, 14049-900, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil.
| | - Ana Maria Soares Pereira
- Departamento de Biotecnologia em Plantas Medicinais, Universidade de Ribeirão Preto, 14096-900, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil; Botanical Garden of Medicinal Plants Ordem e Progresso, 14690-000, Jardinopólis, Brazil.
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Bjørklund G, Cruz-Martins N, Goh BH, Mykhailenko O, Lysiuk R, Shanaida M, Lenchyk L, Upyr T, Rusu ME, Pryshlyak A, Shanaida V, Chirumbolo S. Medicinal Plant-derived Phytochemicals in Detoxification. Curr Pharm Des 2024; 30:988-1015. [PMID: 37559241 DOI: 10.2174/1381612829666230809094242] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2023] [Revised: 07/01/2023] [Accepted: 07/11/2023] [Indexed: 08/11/2023]
Abstract
The average worldwide human life expectancy is 70 years, with a significantly higher value in Western societies. Many modern diseases are not associated with premature mortality but with a decreased quality of life in aged patients and an excessive accumulation of various toxic compounds in the human body during life. Today, scientists are especially interested in finding compounds that can help increase a healthy lifespan by detoxifying the body. Phytotherapy with specific approaches is used in alternative medicine to remove toxins from the body. Worldwide, research is conducted to identify medicinal plant-derived molecules that, with few or no side effects, may protect the liver and other organs. This review provides updated information about the detoxification process, the traditional and modern use of the most effective medicinal plants, their active metabolites as detoxifying agents, and the mechanisms and pathways involved in the detoxification process. Among medicinal plants with substantial detoxifying properties, a major part belongs to the Asteraceae family (Silybum marianum, Cynara scolymus, Arctium lappa, Helichrysum species, Inula helenium, and Taraxacum officinale). The most widely used hepatoprotective phytocomponent is silymarin, a standardized extract from the Silybum marianum seeds containing a mixture of flavonolignans. Many polysaccharides, polyphenols, and terpenoids have a detoxifying effect. Overall, scientific data on medicinal plants used in phytotherapeutic practice worldwide provides an understanding and awareness of their efficacy in detoxification.
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Affiliation(s)
- Geir Bjørklund
- Department of Research, Council for Nutritional and Environmental Medicine (CONEM), Toften 24, Mo i Rana 8610, Norway
| | - Natália Cruz-Martins
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Porto, Alameda Prof. Hernani Monteiro, Porto, Portugal
- Institute for Research and Innovation in Health (i3S), University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
- Institute of Research and Advanced Training in Health Sciences and Technologies (CESPU), Rua Central de Gandra, 1317, 4585-116 Gandra PRD, Portugal
- TOXRUN-Toxicology Research Unit, University Institute of Health Sciences, CESPU, CRL, 4585-116 Gandra, Portugal
| | - Bey Hing Goh
- Biofunctional Molecule Exploratory (BMEX) Research Group, School of Pharmacy, Monash University Malaysia, Victoria, Malaysia
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Science, University of Veterinary and Animal Science, Lahore, Pakistan
- Center of Health Outcomes Research and Therapeutic Safety (Cohorts), School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Phayao, Phayao, Thailand
| | - Olha Mykhailenko
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, National University of Pharmacy of Ministry of Health of Ukraine, Kharkiv, Ukraine
- CONEM Ukraine Bromatology and Medicinal Chemistry Group, National University of Pharmacy, Kharkiv, Ukraine
| | - Roman Lysiuk
- Department of Pharmacognosy and Botany, Danylo Halytsky Lviv National Medical University, Lviv, Ukraine
- CONEM Ukraine Life Science Research Group, Department of Pharmacognosy and Botany, Danylo Halytsky Lviv National Medical University, Lviv, Ukraine
| | - Mariia Shanaida
- Department of Pharmacognosy and Medical Botany, I. Horbachevsky Ternopil National Medical University, Ternopil, Ukraine
| | - Larysa Lenchyk
- CONEM Ukraine Pharmacognosy and Natural Product Chemistry Research Group, National University of Pharmacy, Kharkiv, Ukraine
- Department of Pharmaceutical Technologies and Quality of Medicines, Institute for Advanced Training of Pharmacy Specialists, National University of Pharmacy, Kharkiv, Ukraine
| | - Taras Upyr
- CONEM Ukraine Pharmacognosy and Natural Product Chemistry Research Group, National University of Pharmacy, Kharkiv, Ukraine
| | - Marius Emil Rusu
- Department of Pharmaceutical Technology and Biopharmaceutics, Faculty of Pharmacy, Iuliu Hatieganu University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Antonina Pryshlyak
- Department of Human Anatomy, I. Horbachevsky Ternopil National Medical University, Ternopil, Ukraine
| | - Volodymyr Shanaida
- Design of Machine Tools, Instruments and Machines Department, Ternopil Ivan Puluj National Technical University, Ternopil, Ukraine
| | - Salvatore Chirumbolo
- Department of Neurosciences, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
- CONEM Scientific Secretary, Verona, Italy
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Huang L, Han Y, Wang Z, Qiu Q, Yue S, Zhou Q, Su W, Yan J. Saffron reduces the liver fibrosis in mice by inhibiting the JAK/STAT3 pathway. Acta Cir Bras 2023; 38:e385823. [PMID: 38055395 PMCID: PMC10691186 DOI: 10.1590/acb385823] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2023] [Accepted: 09/11/2023] [Indexed: 12/08/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Chronic inflammation in the liver is a key trigger for liver injury and fibrosis in various liver diseases. Given the anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects of Saffron, this study aimed to investigate the pharmacological effects of Saffron on hepatic inflammation and fibrosis. METHODS The mice model of hepatic fibrosis was constructed using CCl4, and Saffron was administered at low (10 mg/kg) and high (20 mg/kg) doses by gavage. Then, the changes in liver function, liver inflammation and fibrosis markers were evaluated. The effects and mechanisms of Saffron on hepatic stellate cells were further investigated in in-vitro experiments. RESULTS Saffron improved liver function, reduced liver inflammation and attenuated liver fibrosis in a dose-dependent manner in hepatic fibrosis mice. Furthermore, Western blotting showed that Saffron significantly inhibited JAK/STAT3 phosphorylation in fibrotic livers. CONCLUSIONS Saffron can attenuate liver fibrosis by inhibiting the JAK/STAT3 pathway and the activation of hepatic stellate cell, providing a theoretical basis for the development of new anti-fibrotic drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lijuan Huang
- Xiangnan University – College of Nursing – Chenzhou, Hunan Province – People’s Republic of China
| | - Yan Han
- Xiangnan University -Affiliated Hospital – Chenzhou, Hunan Province – People’s Republic of China
| | - Zhi Wang
- Xiangnan University -Affiliated Hospital – Chenzhou, Hunan Province – People’s Republic of China
| | - Qiao Qiu
- Xiangnan University -Affiliated Hospital – Chenzhou, Hunan Province – People’s Republic of China
| | - Sichen Yue
- Xiangnan University -Affiliated Hospital – Chenzhou, Hunan Province – People’s Republic of China
| | - Qingmin Zhou
- Xiangnan University -Affiliated Hospital – Chenzhou, Hunan Province – People’s Republic of China
| | - Wei Su
- Xiangnan University -Affiliated Hospital – Chenzhou, Hunan Province – People’s Republic of China
| | - Jianhui Yan
- Xiangnan University -Affiliated Hospital – Chenzhou, Hunan Province – People’s Republic of China
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Ali A, Wani AB, Malla BA, Poyya J, Dar NJ, Ali F, Ahmad SB, Rehman MU, Nadeem A. Network Pharmacology Integrated Molecular Docking and Dynamics to Elucidate Saffron Compounds Targeting Human COX-2 Protein. MEDICINA (KAUNAS, LITHUANIA) 2023; 59:2058. [PMID: 38138161 PMCID: PMC10744988 DOI: 10.3390/medicina59122058] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2023] [Revised: 11/05/2023] [Accepted: 11/17/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023]
Abstract
Background and Objectives: Cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) is mostly linked to inflammation and has been validated as a molecular target for treating inflammatory diseases. The present study aimed to identify novel compounds that could inhibit COX-2, which is associated with various diseases including inflammation, and in such a scenario, plant-derived biomolecules have been considered as attractive candidates. Materials and Methods: In the present study, physiochemical properties and toxicity of natural compounds/drugs were determined by SWISSADME and ProTox-II. In the present study, the molecular docking binding features of saffron derivatives (crocetin, picrocrocin, quercetin, safranal, crocin, rutin, and dimethylcrocetin) against human COX-2 protein were assessed. Moreover, protein-protein interactions, topographic properties, gene enrichment analysis and molecular dynamics simulation were also determined. Results: The present study revealed that picrocrocin showed the highest binding affinity of -8.1 kcal/mol when docked against the COX-2 protein. PROCHECK analysis revealed that 90.3% of the protein residues were found in the most favored region. Compartmentalized Protein-Protein Interaction identified 90 interactions with an average interaction score of 0.62, and the highest localization score of 0.99 found in secretory pathways. The Computed Atlas of Surface Topography of Proteins was used to identify binding pockets and important residues that could serve as drug targets. Use of WEBnmα revealed protein dynamics by using normal mode analysis. Ligand and Receptor Dynamics used the Molecular Generalized Born Surface Area approach to determine the binding free energy of the protein. Gene enrichment analysis revealed that ovarian steroidogenesis, was the most significant enrichment pathway. Molecular dynamic simulations were executed for the best docked (COX-2-picrocrocin) complex, and the results displayed conformational alterations with more pronounced surface residue fluctuations in COX-2 with loss of the intra-protein hydrogen bonding network. The direct interaction of picrocrocin with various crucial amino-acid residues like GLN203, TYR385, HIS386 and 388, ASN382, and TRP387 causes modifications in these residues, which ultimately attenuates the activity of COX-2 protein. Conclusions: The present study revealed that picrocrocin was the most effective biomolecule and could be repurposed via computational approaches. However, various in vivo and in vitro observations are still needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aarif Ali
- Division of Veterinary Biochemistry, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences & Animal Husbandry, SKUAST-K, Shuhama, Alusteng, Srinagar 190006, India
| | - Amir Bashir Wani
- Genome Engineering and Societal Biotechnology Lab., Division of Plant Biotechnology, SKUAST-K, Shalimar, Srinagar 190006, India;
| | - Bashir Ahmad Malla
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Biological Sciences, University of Kashmir, Hazratbal, Srinagar 190006, India;
| | - Jagadeesha Poyya
- SDM Research Institute for Biomedical Sciences, Dharwad 580009, India
| | - Nawab John Dar
- SALK Institute for Biological Studies, La Jolla, San Diego, CA 92037, USA;
| | - Fasil Ali
- Department of Studies and Research in Biochemistry, Mangalore University, Mangalore 571232, India
| | - Sheikh Bilal Ahmad
- Division of Veterinary Biochemistry, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences & Animal Husbandry, SKUAST-K, Shuhama, Alusteng, Srinagar 190006, India
| | - Muneeb U. Rehman
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia;
| | - Ahmed Nadeem
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia
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Jiménez-González V, Benítez G, Pastor JE, López-Lázaro M, Calderón-Montaño JM. Evaluation of Anticancer Activity of 76 Plant Species Collected in Andalusia (Spain) against Lung Cancer Cells. PLANTS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2023; 12:3275. [PMID: 37765439 PMCID: PMC10536323 DOI: 10.3390/plants12183275] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2023] [Revised: 09/07/2023] [Accepted: 09/12/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023]
Abstract
Every year, cancer kills millions of people around the world. Finding more selective anticancer agents is essential to improve the low survival rates of patients with metastatic cancers. Since the research of natural products is a valuable approach to the discovery of new compounds and the Iberian flora offers a rich source of unstudied plants, we have carried out a random screening of 76 plant species from 43 families collected in Andalusia (South of Spain). Using non-malignant cells (HaCaT) and lung cancer cells (A549), we found that the extract from Arum italicum Mill. subsp. italicum (Araceae), Mandragora autumnalis Bertol. (Solanaceae), Rhamnus alaternus L. (Rhamnaceae), and Lomelosia simplex (Desf.) Raf. subsp. dentata (Jord. & Fourr.) Greuter & Burdet (Dipsacaceae) showed selective cytotoxicity against lung cancer cells. Extracts of plant species belonging to the Iridaceae family showed high selective activity against cancer cells, highlighting that the Xiphion xiphium (L.) M.B. Crespo, Mart.-Azorín & Mavrodiev flower extract was more selective against lung cancer cells than the standard anticancer drugs, cisplatin and 5-fluorouracil. This extract also showed modest selective cytotoxicity against bladder carcinoma cells (T24). The number of cells in the G1 phase increased after treatment with the extract from Xiphion xiphium. Our research indicates that various plants are potential sources for the isolation and development of new anticancer drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Víctor Jiménez-González
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Seville, 41012 Seville, Spain;
| | - Guillermo Benítez
- Department of Botany, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Granada, 18071 Granada, Spain;
| | - Julio Enrique Pastor
- Department of Vegetal Biology and Ecology, Faculty of Biology, University of Seville, 41012 Seville, Spain;
| | - Miguel López-Lázaro
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Seville, 41012 Seville, Spain;
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Baloghová J, Michalková R, Baranová Z, Mojžišová G, Fedáková Z, Mojžiš J. Spice-Derived Phenolic Compounds: Potential for Skin Cancer Prevention and Therapy. Molecules 2023; 28:6251. [PMID: 37687080 PMCID: PMC10489044 DOI: 10.3390/molecules28176251] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2023] [Revised: 08/20/2023] [Accepted: 08/23/2023] [Indexed: 09/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Skin cancer is a condition characterized by the abnormal growth of skin cells, primarily caused by exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun or artificial sources like tanning beds. Different types of skin cancer include melanoma, basal cell carcinoma, and squamous cell carcinoma. Despite the advancements in targeted therapies, there is still a need for a safer, highly efficient approach to preventing and treating cutaneous malignancies. Spices have a rich history dating back thousands of years and are renowned for their ability to enhance the flavor, taste, and color of food. Derived from various plant parts like seeds, fruits, bark, roots, or flowers, spices are important culinary ingredients. However, their value extends beyond the culinary realm. Some spices contain bioactive compounds, including phenolic compounds, which are known for their significant biological effects. These compounds have attracted attention in scientific research due to their potential health benefits, including their possible role in disease prevention and treatment, such as cancer. This review focuses on examining the potential of spice-derived phenolic compounds as preventive or therapeutic agents for managing skin cancers. By compiling and analyzing the available knowledge, this review aims to provide insights that can guide future research in identifying new anticancer phytochemicals and uncovering additional mechanisms for combating skin cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Janette Baloghová
- Department of Dermatovenerology, Faculty of Medicine, Pavol Jozef Šafárik University, 040 01 Košice, Slovakia; (J.B.); (Z.B.); (Z.F.)
| | - Radka Michalková
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Pavol Jozef Šafárik University, 040 01 Kosice, Slovakia;
| | - Zuzana Baranová
- Department of Dermatovenerology, Faculty of Medicine, Pavol Jozef Šafárik University, 040 01 Košice, Slovakia; (J.B.); (Z.B.); (Z.F.)
| | - Gabriela Mojžišová
- Center of Clinical and Preclinical Research MEDIPARK, Faculty of Medicine, Pavol Jozef Šafárik University, 040 01 Kosice, Slovakia;
| | - Zuzana Fedáková
- Department of Dermatovenerology, Faculty of Medicine, Pavol Jozef Šafárik University, 040 01 Košice, Slovakia; (J.B.); (Z.B.); (Z.F.)
| | - Ján Mojžiš
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Pavol Jozef Šafárik University, 040 01 Kosice, Slovakia;
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Aissa R, Ibourki M, Ait Bouzid H, Bijla L, Oubannin S, Sakar EH, Jadouali S, Hermansyah A, Goh KW, Ming LC, Bouyahya A, Gharby S. Phytochemistry, quality control and medicinal uses of Saffron ( Crocus sativus L.): an updated review. J Med Life 2023; 16:822-836. [PMID: 37675158 PMCID: PMC10478662 DOI: 10.25122/jml-2022-0353] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2023] [Accepted: 04/17/2023] [Indexed: 09/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Saffron, botanically known as Crocus sativus L., is renowned as the world's most expensive spice and has been utilized in various fields since ancient times. Extensive scientific research has been conducted on Crocus sativus (C. sativus), focusing on its phytochemical composition, diverse applications, and biological activities. C. sativus phytochemicals consist mainly of three compounds, namely crocin, picrocrocin, and safranal, which are responsible for most of its properties. Saffron is rich in bioactive compounds, more than 150 of which have been isolated. Owing to its unique composition and properties, saffron is used in various fields, such as the food industry, perfumery, cosmetics, pharmaceutics, and medicine. However, the high economic value of saffron makes it susceptible to adulteration and various fraudulent practices. To deal with this issue, a number of methods and techniques have been developed to authenticate and determine adulterants in saffron. This paper presents a bibliometric study of saffron based on the Web of Science database, analyzing 3,735 studies published between 2000 and 2021. The study also examined author participation and collaboration networks among countries. Production, transformation, chemical composition, methods of adulteration detection, uses, and health properties of saffron are also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rabha Aissa
- Department of Bio-Industrial Engineering & Environment, Bioprocesses and Environment Team, Superior School of Technology, Ibn Zohr University, Agadir, Morocco
| | - Mohamed Ibourki
- Biotechnology, Analytical Sciences and Quality Control Team, Laboratory of Analysis Modeling, Engineering, Natural Substances and Environment, Polydisciplinary Faculty of Taroudant, University Ibn Zohr, Agadir, Morocco
| | - Hasna Ait Bouzid
- Biotechnology, Analytical Sciences and Quality Control Team, Laboratory of Analysis Modeling, Engineering, Natural Substances and Environment, Polydisciplinary Faculty of Taroudant, University Ibn Zohr, Agadir, Morocco
| | - Laila Bijla
- Biotechnology, Analytical Sciences and Quality Control Team, Laboratory of Analysis Modeling, Engineering, Natural Substances and Environment, Polydisciplinary Faculty of Taroudant, University Ibn Zohr, Agadir, Morocco
| | - Samira Oubannin
- Biotechnology, Analytical Sciences and Quality Control Team, Laboratory of Analysis Modeling, Engineering, Natural Substances and Environment, Polydisciplinary Faculty of Taroudant, University Ibn Zohr, Agadir, Morocco
| | - El Hassan Sakar
- Laboratory of Biology, Ecology, and Health, Faculty of Sciences, Abdelmalek Essaadi University, Tetouan, Morocco
| | - Simohamed Jadouali
- Laboratory of Biotechnology, Bioanalysis and Bioinformatics, Superior School of Technology, Sultan Moulay Slimane University, Khenifra, Morocco
| | - Andi Hermansyah
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, Faculty of Pharmacy, Universitas Airlangga, Surabaya, Indonesia
| | - Khang Wen Goh
- Faculty of Data Science and Information Technology, INTI International University, Nilai, Malaysia
| | - Long Chiau Ming
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, Faculty of Pharmacy, Universitas Airlangga, Surabaya, Indonesia
- School of Medical and Life Sciences, Sunway University, Sunway City, Malaysia
- PAPRSB Institute of Health Sciences, Universiti Brunei Darussalam, Gadong, Brunei Darussalam
| | - Abdelhakim Bouyahya
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, Mohammed V University, Rabat, Morocco
| | - Said Gharby
- Biotechnology, Analytical Sciences and Quality Control Team, Laboratory of Analysis Modeling, Engineering, Natural Substances and Environment, Polydisciplinary Faculty of Taroudant, University Ibn Zohr, Agadir, Morocco
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Jamshidi V, Halabian R, Saeedi P, Bagheri H, Nobakht Motlagh Ghoochani BF. Accelerating synergistic effects of preconditioned mesenchymal stem cells with Crocin and dexamethasone in pulmonary epithelial cells injury. Toxicol Res (Camb) 2023; 12:369-380. [PMID: 37397913 PMCID: PMC10311171 DOI: 10.1093/toxres/tfad016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2022] [Revised: 02/14/2023] [Accepted: 03/19/2023] [Indexed: 07/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Chemical warfare victims suffer from bronchiolitis and chronic pulmonary obstruction caused by sulfur mustard (SM) toxicity. Despite the mesenchymal stem cells capacity to alleviate inflammation, their low survival rate under oxidative stress severely limits their effectiveness. This study aimed to examine how natural (Crocin) and synthetic (Dexamethasone) antioxidants might affect MSC efficacy. MSCs were treated with the optimal doses of Crocin (Cr.), Dexamethasone (Dex.), and their combination. The A549 cells line was pretreated with the optimal dose of the CEES to mimic the lung disease. Then, the affected A549 cells were exposed to the preconditioned MSCs and conditioned media, and then their survival rates were estimated by MTTor2,5-diphenyl-2H-tetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay. Annexin-V PI apoptosis test was conducted for MSCs and A549 cells. Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS) assay and Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) test demonstrated the percentage of production of ROS and the cytokines levels in A549/CEES, respectively. The results revealed significant increases in Cr. + Dex. treated MSCs (P < .01) and A549 cells treated with MSCs-CM/Cr/Dex (P < .01) groups' survival. The apoptosis rate and ROS production were reduced in the MSCs-CM/Cr/Dex. Also, considerable decreases in IL-1β (P < .01) and IL-6 (P < .01) and a significant increase in IL-10 (P < .05) in treated A549/CEES by Cr/Dex and MSCs-CM/Cr/Dex supported the synergistic effects of Crocin and Dexamethasone.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vahid Jamshidi
- Chemical Injuries Research Center, Systems Biology and Poisonings Institute, Baqiyatallah University of Medical Sciences, Tehran 14359-44711, Iran
| | - Raheleh Halabian
- Applied Microbiology Research Center, Systems Biology and Poisonings Institute, Baqiyatallah University of Medical Sciences, Tehran 14359-44711, Iran
| | - Pardis Saeedi
- Applied Microbiology Research Center, Systems Biology and Poisonings Institute, Baqiyatallah University of Medical Sciences, Tehran 14359-44711, Iran
| | - Hasan Bagheri
- Chemical Injuries Research Center, Systems Biology and Poisonings Institute, Baqiyatallah University of Medical Sciences, Tehran 14359-44711, Iran
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Boneva B, Marchev A, Amirova K, Ganova P, Georgiev M, Tchorbanov A, Mihaylova N. Crocus sativus Extract as a Biological Agent for Disease-Modifying Therapy of Collagenase-Induced Mouse Model of Osteoarthritis. Life (Basel) 2023; 13:life13040894. [PMID: 37109424 PMCID: PMC10143021 DOI: 10.3390/life13040894] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2023] [Revised: 03/06/2023] [Accepted: 03/22/2023] [Indexed: 03/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Objectives: Osteoarthritis (OA) is an age-related joint disease that involves the degeneration of cartilage and is the most prevalent form of arthritis, affecting a large part of the population. OA is a multifactorial disorder, and no single etiological mechanism has been found to be common to all forms of the disease. Currently used therapies for control of the disease are mainly nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and corticosteroid medications. The aim of this study was to investigate the extract from Crocus sativus as a biological disease-suppressing therapy agent. Methods: Balb/c mice were injected intra-articularly with Clostridium histolyticum type IA for induction of osteoarthritis. The mice were randomized to five groups: control group, I group (CIOA untreated), II group (CIOA + 100 mg/kg/daily saffron), III group (CIOA + 50 mg/kg/daily saffron), IV group (CIOA + 25 mg/kg/daily saffron). Flow-cytometry analysis was used to study the splenocytes’ phenotype isolated from the treated animals. The serum levels of inflammatory and anti-inflammatory cytokines were analyzed with ELISA. The histological assessment was used to analyze the saffron extract effect on histopathological alterations. Results: Saffron treatment significantly decreased osteoarthritis-associated joint histological manifestations and decreased serum TNFα levels. The flow-cytometry analysis showed a decrease in pro-inflammatory immune cell subtypes in the spleen. Conclusions: The results obtained suggest that saffron affected the disease progression and could be a potential therapeutic approach in osteoarthritic patients’ therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Blagovesta Boneva
- Laboratory of Experimental Immunology, Institute of Microbiology, Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, 1113 Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Andrey Marchev
- Laboratory of Metabolomics, The Stephan Angeloff Institute of Microbiology, Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, 139 Ruski Blvd, 4000 Plovdiv, Bulgaria
| | - Kristiana Amirova
- Laboratory of Metabolomics, The Stephan Angeloff Institute of Microbiology, Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, 139 Ruski Blvd, 4000 Plovdiv, Bulgaria
| | - Petya Ganova
- Laboratory of Immunohistochemistry and Immunopathology, Institute of Microbiology, Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, 1113 Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Milen Georgiev
- Laboratory of Metabolomics, The Stephan Angeloff Institute of Microbiology, Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, 139 Ruski Blvd, 4000 Plovdiv, Bulgaria
| | - Andrey Tchorbanov
- Laboratory of Experimental Immunology, Institute of Microbiology, Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, 1113 Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Nikolina Mihaylova
- Laboratory of Immunohistochemistry and Immunopathology, Institute of Microbiology, Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, 1113 Sofia, Bulgaria
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +359-2-979-3140; Fax: +359-2-870-0109
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Mohammadi Y, Rezaei Farimani A, Beydokhti H, Riahi SM. Comparison of the effect of saffron, crocin, and safranal on serum levels of oxidants and antioxidants in diabetic rats: A systematic review and meta‐analysis of animal studies. Food Sci Nutr 2023. [DOI: 10.1002/fsn3.3302] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/17/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Yaser Mohammadi
- Qaen School of Nursing and Midwifery Birjand University of Medical Sciences Birjand Iran
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine Birjand University of Medical Sciences Birjand Iran
| | - Azam Rezaei Farimani
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine Birjand University of Medical Sciences Birjand Iran
| | - Hossein Beydokhti
- Department of General Courses, School of Medicine Birjand University of Medical Sciences Birjand Iran
| | - Seyed Mohammad Riahi
- Department of Community Medicine, Cardiovascular Diseases Research Center Birjand University of Medical Sciences Birjand Iran
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22
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A Picrocrocin-Enriched Fraction from a Saffron Extract Affects Lipid Homeostasis in HepG2 Cells through a Non-Statin-like Mode. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24043060. [PMID: 36834472 PMCID: PMC9965904 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24043060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2022] [Revised: 01/25/2023] [Accepted: 01/31/2023] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Dyslipidemia is a lipid metabolism disorder associated with the loss of the physiological homeostasis that ensures safe levels of lipids in the organism. This metabolic disorder can trigger pathological conditions such as atherosclerosis and cardiovascular diseases. In this regard, statins currently represent the main pharmacological therapy, but their contraindications and side effects limit their use. This is stimulating the search for new therapeutic strategies. In this work, we investigated in HepG2 cells the hypolipidemic potential of a picrocrocin-enriched fraction, analyzed by high-resolution 1H NMR and obtained from a saffron extract, the stigmas of Crocus sativus L., a precious spice that has already displayed interesting biological properties. Spectrophotometric assays, as well as expression level of the main enzymes involved in lipid metabolism, have highlighted the interesting hypolipidemic effects of this natural compound; they seem to be exerted through a non-statin-like mechanism. Overall, this work provides new insights into the metabolic effects of picrocrocin, thus confirming the biological potential of saffron and paving the way for in vivo studies that could validate this spice or its phytocomplexes as useful adjuvants in balancing blood lipid homeostasis.
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Matraszek-Gawron R, Chwil M, Terlecki K, Skoczylas MM. Current Knowledge of the Antidepressant Activity of Chemical Compounds from Crocus sativus L. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2022; 16:58. [PMID: 36678554 PMCID: PMC9860663 DOI: 10.3390/ph16010058] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2022] [Revised: 12/09/2022] [Accepted: 12/12/2022] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Psychotropic effect of Crocus sativus L. (family Iridaceae) biologically active chemical compounds are quite well documented and they can therefore be used in addition to the conventional pharmacological treatment of depression. This systematic review on antidepressant compounds in saffron crocus and their mechanisms of action and side effects is based on publications released between 1995−2022 and data indexed in 15 databases under the following search terms: antidepressant effect, central nervous system, Crocus sativus, cognitive impairement, crocin, crocetin, depression, dopamine, dopaminergic and serotonergic systems, picrocrocin, phytotherapy, neurotransmitters, safranal, saffron, serotonin, and biologically active compounds. The comparative analysis of the publications was based on 414 original research papers. The investigated literature indicates the effectiveness and safety of aqueous and alcoholic extracts and biologically active chemical compounds (alkaloids, anthocyanins, carotenoids, flavonoid, phenolic, saponins, and terpenoids) isolated from various organs (corms, leaves, flower petal, and stigmas) in adjuvant treatment of depression and anxiety. Monoamine reuptake inhibition, N-methyl-d-aspartate (NMDA) receptor antagonism, and gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA)-α agonism are the main proposed mechanism of the antidepressant action. The antidepressant and neuroprotective effect of extract components is associated with their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activity. The mechanism of their action, interactions with conventional drugs and other herbal preparations and the safety of use are not fully understood; therefore, further detailed research in this field is necessary. The presented results regarding the application of C. sativus in phytotherapy are promising in terms of the use of herbal preparations to support the treatment of depression. This is particularly important given the steady increase in the incidence of this disease worldwide and social effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Renata Matraszek-Gawron
- Department of Botany and Plant Physiology, University of Life Sciences in Lublin, Akademicka 15 Street, 20-950 Lublin, Poland
| | - Mirosława Chwil
- Department of Botany and Plant Physiology, University of Life Sciences in Lublin, Akademicka 15 Street, 20-950 Lublin, Poland
| | - Karol Terlecki
- Department of Vascular Surgery and Angiology, Medical University of Lublin, Racławickie 1 Street, 20-059 Lublin, Poland
| | - Michał Marian Skoczylas
- Department of Diagnostic Imaging and Interventional Radiology, Pomeranian Medical University in Szczecin, Unii Lubelskiej 1 Street, 71-252 Szczecin, Poland
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24
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Ezati P, Khan A, Rhim JW, Roy S, Hassan ZU. Saffron: Perspectives and Sustainability for Active and Intelligent Food Packaging Applications. FOOD BIOPROCESS TECH 2022. [DOI: 10.1007/s11947-022-02949-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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25
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Dacrema M, Ali A, Ullah H, Khan A, Di Minno A, Xiao J, Martins AMC, Daglia M. Spice-Derived Bioactive Compounds Confer Colorectal Cancer Prevention via Modulation of Gut Microbiota. Cancers (Basel) 2022; 14:cancers14225682. [PMID: 36428774 PMCID: PMC9688386 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14225682] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2022] [Revised: 11/16/2022] [Accepted: 11/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the second most frequent cause of cancer-related mortality among all types of malignancies. Sedentary lifestyles, obesity, smoking, red and processed meat, low-fiber diets, inflammatory bowel disease, and gut dysbiosis are the most important risk factors associated with CRC pathogenesis. Alterations in gut microbiota are positively correlated with colorectal carcinogenesis, as these can dysregulate the immune response, alter the gut's metabolic profile, modify the molecular processes in colonocytes, and initiate mutagenesis. Changes in the daily diet, and the addition of plant-based nutraceuticals, have the ability to modulate the composition and functionality of the gut microbiota, maintaining gut homeostasis and regulating host immune and inflammatory responses. Spices are one of the fundamental components of the human diet that are used for their bioactive properties (i.e., antimicrobial, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory effects) and these exert beneficial effects on health, improving digestion and showing anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory, and glucose- and cholesterol-lowering activities, as well as possessing properties that affect cognition and mood. The anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory properties of spices could be useful in the prevention of various types of cancers that affect the digestive system. This review is designed to summarize the reciprocal interactions between dietary spices and the gut microbiota, and highlight the impact of dietary spices and their bioactive compounds on colorectal carcinogenesis by targeting the gut microbiota.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marco Dacrema
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Napoli Federico II, Via D. Montesano 49, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Arif Ali
- Postgraduate Program in Pharmacology, Federal University of Ceará, Fortaleza 60430372, Brazil
| | - Hammad Ullah
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Napoli Federico II, Via D. Montesano 49, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Ayesha Khan
- Department of Medicine, Combined Military Hospital Nowshera, Nowshera 24110, Pakistan
| | - Alessandro Di Minno
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Napoli Federico II, Via D. Montesano 49, 80131 Naples, Italy
- CEINGE-Biotecnologie Avanzate, Via Gaetano Salvatore 486, 80145 Naples, Italy
| | - Jianbo Xiao
- Department of Analytical and Food Chemistry, Faculty of Sciences, Universidade de Vigo, 32004 Ourense, Spain
- International Research Center for Food Nutrition and Safety, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang 212013, China
| | - Alice Maria Costa Martins
- Department of Clinical and Toxicological Analysis, Federal University of Ceará, Fortaleza 60430372, Brazil
| | - Maria Daglia
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Napoli Federico II, Via D. Montesano 49, 80131 Naples, Italy
- International Research Center for Food Nutrition and Safety, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang 212013, China
- Correspondence:
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pH-Responsive Color Indicator of Saffron (Crocus sativus L.) Anthocyanin-Activated Salep Mucilage Edible Film for Real-Time Monitoring of Fish Fillet Freshness. CHEMISTRY 2022. [DOI: 10.3390/chemistry4040089] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Researchers have been focusing increasingly on preparing innovative packaging films made from renewable and biodegradable materials in recent years. This research set out to fabricate and analyze pH-sensitive edible films based on salep mucilage combined with anthocyanin from saffron (Crocus sativus L.) (SAAs). A casting technique was developed with varying concentrations of SAAs (0, 2.5, 5, 7.5, and 10%v/v) pH-sensitive edible films. The surface morphology, physicochemical, barrier, and mechanical properties, as well as the pH sensitivity of films, were investigated. The results showed SAAs increased thickness, water solubility, moisture content, and oxygen permeability (O2P) up to 199.03 µm, 63.71%, 14.13%, and 47.73 (cm3 µm m−2 day−1 kPa−1), respectively, of the pH-sensitive salep mucilage edible indicator films. As expected, the SAAs concentration from 0% to 10%v/v decreased tensile strength, transparency, and contact angle to 11.94 MPa, 14.27%, and 54.02°, respectively. Although achieving the highest elongation at the break (108%) and the lowest water vapor permeability (WVP) (1.39 g s−1 m−1 Pa−1 × 10−11), the pH-sensitive edible indicator film containing 5 %v/v of SAAs showed the best results. An investigation of pH sensitivity revealed that the solution’s pH variation altered the SAAs color. When the pH was raised from 3 to 11, the SAAs’ color shifted from pink to brown. The SAAs-halochromic salep mucilage edible indicator film was employed as a label in an experiment to track the degradation of fish fillets stored at 4 °C, revealing that the halochromic indicator changed color from yellow to brown as the fish was stored. Our findings show that SAAs-loaded salep mucilage indicator films help monitor real-time food deterioration.
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27
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He S, Choi DM, Row KH. Utilization of ionic deep eutectic solvent as sustainable mobile phase additive in HPLC for improving the separation of biogenic amines. J Sep Sci 2022; 45:4005-4011. [PMID: 36057094 DOI: 10.1002/jssc.202200608] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2022] [Revised: 08/31/2022] [Accepted: 08/31/2022] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
Biogenic amines are present in large quantities in fermented foods and are a key marker for assessing food safety. This paper proposes a novel method for high-performance liquid chromatography analysis of biogenic amines using deep eutectic solvent as mobile phase additive. After screening eight synthetic deep eutectic solvents and comparing with several common additives, deep eutectic solvents based on choline chloride and ethylene glycol showed significant effects for improving the separation of biogenic amines. A Box-Behnken design of 17 runs was used to screen and optimize the key chromatographic parameters, resulting in an expected composition of the mobile phase of 0.73% deep eutectic solvent, 65% acetonitrile, and a column temperature of 28°C. The proposed method exhibited excellent linearity (0.1-50 μg/mL, R2 ≥ 0.9987), limit of detection (0.007-0.031 μg/mL), precision (1.28-5.34%) and accuracy (87.2-110.6%). The method can be applied successfully to the separation and analysis of biogenic amines in cooking wine samples. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sile He
- Department of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Education and Research Center for Smart Energy and Materials, Inha University, Incheon, 402-701, Korea
| | - Dong Min Choi
- Department of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Education and Research Center for Smart Energy and Materials, Inha University, Incheon, 402-701, Korea
| | - Kyung Ho Row
- Department of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Education and Research Center for Smart Energy and Materials, Inha University, Incheon, 402-701, Korea
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Mahmod AI, Haif SK, Kamal A, Al-Ataby IA, Talib WH. Chemoprevention effect of the Mediterranean diet on colorectal cancer: Current studies and future prospects. Front Nutr 2022; 9:924192. [PMID: 35990343 PMCID: PMC9386380 DOI: 10.3389/fnut.2022.924192] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2022] [Accepted: 07/18/2022] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the third most common cancer and the second most deadly cancer worldwide. Nevertheless, more than 70% of CRC cases are resulted from sporadic tumorigenesis and are not inherited. Since adenoma-carcinoma development is a slow process and may take up to 20 years, diet-based chemoprevention could be an effective approach in sporadic CRC. The Mediterranean diet is an example of a healthy diet pattern that consists of a combination of nutraceuticals that prevent several chronic diseases and cancer. Many epidemiological studies have shown the correlation between adherence to the Mediterranean diet and low incidence of CRC. The goal of this review is to shed the light on the anti-inflammatory and anti-colorectal cancer potentials of the natural bioactive compounds derived from the main foods in the Mediterranean diet.
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Affiliation(s)
- Asma Ismail Mahmod
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy and Therapeutic, Applied Science Private University, Amman, Jordan
| | - Shatha Khaled Haif
- Department of Pharmacy, Princess Sarvath Community College, Amman, Jordan
| | - Ayah Kamal
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy and Therapeutic, Applied Science Private University, Amman, Jordan
| | - Israa A Al-Ataby
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy and Therapeutic, Applied Science Private University, Amman, Jordan
| | - Wamidh H Talib
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy and Therapeutic, Applied Science Private University, Amman, Jordan
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Jafari F, Emami SA, Javadi B, Salmasi Z, Tayarani-Najjaran M, Tayarani-Najaran Z. Inhibitory effect of saffron, crocin, crocetin, and safranal against adipocyte differentiation in human adipose-derived stem cells. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2022; 294:115340. [PMID: 35551973 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2022.115340] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2022] [Revised: 04/20/2022] [Accepted: 04/30/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Saffron (Crocus sativus L.) has been introduced as a potential promising natural antioxidant with anti-obesity properties. In Persian Medicine, saffron has been used to control appetite and obesity. AIM OF THE STUDY The present study aims to investigate the effect of saffron and its bioactive compounds on adipocyte differentiation in human adipose-derived stem cells (ADSCs). MATERIALS AND METHODS Flow-Cytometric analysis was performed to quantify the cell surface markers. The extracts cytotoxicity on hASCs was measured using alamarBlue® assay whereas their activities against adipocyte differentiation were studied using Oil Red O staining. The level of Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-γ (PPARγ), Fatty Acid Synthetase (FAS), and Glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase (GAPHD) which are key proteins in cell differentiation was investigated by western blot analysis. RESULTS Flow-cytometry revealed the mesenchymal stem cells markers, CD44 and CD90, on ADSCs surface. The saffron, crocin, and crocetin significantly inhibited adipocyte differentiation while saffron up to 20 μg/mL and crocin, crocetin and safranal up to 20 μM did not exhibit cytotoxicity. The western blotting analysis revealed a remarkable reduction in the level of PPARγ, GAPDH, and FAS proteins by 10 and 20 μM of crocin and 2.5 and 5 μM of crocetin. CONCLUSION It seems that saffron, crocin, and crocetin could efficiently inhibit the differentiation of hASCs with benefits for the treatment and prevention of obesity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fatemeh Jafari
- Medical Toxicology Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran.
| | - Seyed Ahmad Emami
- Department of Traditional Pharmacy, School of Pharmacy, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran.
| | - Behjat Javadi
- Department of Traditional Pharmacy, School of Pharmacy, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran.
| | - Zahra Salmasi
- Nanotechnology Research Center, Pharmaceutical Technology Institute, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran; Department of Pharmaceutical Nanotechnology, School of Pharmacy, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran.
| | | | - Zahra Tayarani-Najaran
- Targeted Drug Delivery Research Center, Pharmaceutical Technology Institute, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran.
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Cheng X, Li BP, Han ZX, Zhang FL, Jiang ZR, Yang JS, Luo QZ, Tang L. Qualitative and quantitative analysis of the major components in Qinghao Biejia decoction by UPLC-Orbitrap Fusion-MS/MS and UPLC-QQQ-MS/MS and evaluation of their antibacterial activities. PHYTOCHEMICAL ANALYSIS : PCA 2022; 33:809-825. [PMID: 35546427 DOI: 10.1002/pca.3131] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2022] [Revised: 04/12/2022] [Accepted: 04/18/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE In the present study, the chemical components of Qinghao Biejia decoction (QBD) were qualitatively and quantitatively analyzed using UPLC-Orbitrap Fusion-MS/MS and UPLC-QQQ-MS/MS techniques, followed by identification of each component's origin and evaluation of the antibacterial activity of QBD and its components. METHODS High-resolution mass spectrometry was used to obtain information on the precise molecular weight, retention time, and fragmentation ion peaks of the compounds used to identify the components of QBD and establish a method for their quantification. In vitro assays including determination of the minimal inhibitory concentration and growth curves were used to assess the antibacterial activity of QBD and its components. RESULTS A total of 39 components, including fatty acids, phenolic acids, amino acids, flavonoids, coumarins, terpenoids, and alkaloids, were identified by UPLC-Orbitrap Fusion-MS/MS. A high-performance analytical method was also established to quantify 12 components of QBD. The content of mangiferin was relatively high (estimated to be 814 μg/g). The results of the antibacterial assays indicated that mangiferin exhibits antibacterial effects against two strains causing respiratory tract infections. CONCLUSIONS The present study suggests that mangiferin may serve as a natural compound which shows high antibacterial activity. The results can aid the discovery and analysis of the active antimicrobial components present in QBD and further provide a reference for quality assessment of multi-component herbal prescriptions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin Cheng
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicine Pharmaceutics, Guangzhou, China
- Guangdong Provincial Engineering Laboratory of Chinese Medicine Preparation Technology, Guangzhou, China
| | - Biao-Ping Li
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicine Pharmaceutics, Guangzhou, China
- Guangdong Provincial Engineering Laboratory of Chinese Medicine Preparation Technology, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zhong-Xiao Han
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Feng-Lin Zhang
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Zhi-Rui Jiang
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicine Pharmaceutics, Guangzhou, China
- Guangdong Provincial Engineering Laboratory of Chinese Medicine Preparation Technology, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jia-Shun Yang
- The Third Affiliated Hospital of Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Qi-Zhi Luo
- Department of Forensic Toxicology, School of Forensic Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Ling Tang
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Chinese Medicine Pharmaceutics, Guangzhou, China
- Guangdong Provincial Engineering Laboratory of Chinese Medicine Preparation Technology, Guangzhou, China
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Yan M, Yan Y, Zhang Z, Wang G, Shi W, Jiang M, Zhao J, Wu X, Zeng H. The Effect of Triptolide Combined With Crocin on Arthritis in Mice: From Side Effect Attenuation to Therapy. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:908227. [PMID: 35814255 PMCID: PMC9260116 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.908227] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2022] [Accepted: 06/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Clinical use of triptolide (TP) is restricted due to severe toxicity. This study assessed the protective effect of crocin (CR) as a natural antioxidant against TP-induced toxicity in bovine collagen type II-induced arthritis (CIA) in mice. The mice in the CIA model group showed macroscopic signs of severe arthritis. The anti-arthritis effects in the control, TP + CR, and TP groups were evaluated through assessment of foot volume, arthritis score, and proinflammatory cytokines, and collagen antibody assay. Crocin reduced TP-induced toxicity, as evidenced by evaluation of survival rate, body weight, visceral index, hepatic and renal functions, histopathologic analyses, and antioxidant enzyme activities. Transcriptome sequencing resulted in identification of 76 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) associated with hepatotoxicity between the TP and TP + CR groups. Of these, Three DEGs (Cyp1a2,Gsta4, and Gstp1) were validated using quantitative real-time PCR analysis. In conclusion, CR protected CIA mice from TP-induced toxicity through modulation of the cytochrome P450 and glutathione metabolism pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Min Yan
- Academy of Chinese Medicine Sciences, Henan University of Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Yinyin Yan
- Academy of Chinese Medicine Sciences, Henan University of Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou, China
- School of Medicine, Henan University of Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Zhenqiang Zhang
- Academy of Chinese Medicine Sciences, Henan University of Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Guoqiang Wang
- Academy of Chinese Medicine Sciences, Henan University of Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Wenbo Shi
- Academy of Chinese Medicine Sciences, Henan University of Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou, China
- School of Medicine, Henan University of Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Mengyuan Jiang
- Academy of Chinese Medicine Sciences, Henan University of Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Junwei Zhao
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Core Unit of National Clinical Research Center for Laboratory Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
- *Correspondence: Junwei Zhao, ; Xiangxiang Wu, ; Huahui Zeng,
| | - Xiangxiang Wu
- Academy of Chinese Medicine Sciences, Henan University of Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou, China
- *Correspondence: Junwei Zhao, ; Xiangxiang Wu, ; Huahui Zeng,
| | - Huahui Zeng
- Academy of Chinese Medicine Sciences, Henan University of Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou, China
- School of Medicine, Henan University of Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou, China
- *Correspondence: Junwei Zhao, ; Xiangxiang Wu, ; Huahui Zeng,
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Bastani S, Vahedian V, Rashidi M, Mir A, Mirzaei S, Alipourfard I, Pouremamali F, Nejabati H, Kadkhoda J, Maroufi NF, Akbarzadeh M. An evaluation on potential anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory effects of Crocin. Biomed Pharmacother 2022; 153:113297. [PMID: 35738178 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2022.113297] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2022] [Revised: 06/10/2022] [Accepted: 06/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Crocin, an active ingredient derived from saffron, is one of the herbal components that has recently been considered by researchers. Crocin has been shown to have many anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, and therefore can be used to treat various diseases. It has been shown that Crocin has a positive effect on the prevention and treatment of cardiovascular disease, cancer, diabetes, and kidney disease. In addition, the role of this substance in COVID-19 pandemic has been identified. In this review article, we tried to have a comprehensive review of the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects of Crocin in different diseases and different tissues. In conclusion, Crocin may be helpful in pathological conditions that are associated with inflammation and oxidative stress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sepideh Bastani
- Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine Institute, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Vahid Vahedian
- Cancer Biology Research Group, Faculty of Medicine Institute of Biotechnology (FMB-IBTEC) Sao Paulo State University (UNESP), Brazil
| | - Mohsen Rashidi
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran; The Health of Plant and Livestock Products Research Center, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
| | - Amirabbas Mir
- Institute of Nano Science and Nano Technology, University of Kashan, P.O. Box 87317-51167, Kashan, Islamic Republic of Iran
| | - Sepideh Mirzaei
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Islamic Azad University, Science and Research Branch, Tehran, Iran
| | - Iraj Alipourfard
- Institutitue of Biology, Biotechnology and Environmental Protection - Faculty of Natural Sciences - University of Silesia - Katowice - Poland
| | - Farhad Pouremamali
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, Faculty of Advanced Medical Sciences, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Hamidreza Nejabati
- Department of Biochemistry and Clinical Laboratories, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Jamileh Kadkhoda
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Nazila Fathi Maroufi
- Department of Biochemistry and Clinical Laboratories, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.
| | - Maryam Akbarzadeh
- Department of Biochemistry, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands.
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Lopresti AL, Smith SJ. An examination into the mental and physical effects of a saffron extract (affron®) in recreationally-active adults: A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study. J Int Soc Sports Nutr 2022; 19:219-238. [PMID: 35813851 PMCID: PMC9261746 DOI: 10.1080/15502783.2022.2083455] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Adrian L Lopresti
- Clinical Research Australia, Perth, Australia
- Murdoch University, College of Science, Health, Engineering and Education, Perth, Australia
| | - Stephen J Smith
- Clinical Research Australia, Perth, Australia
- Murdoch University, College of Science, Health, Engineering and Education, Perth, Australia
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Phytochemical Profile and Biological Activity of the Ethanolic Extract from the Aerial Part of Crocus alatavicus Regel & Semen Growing Wildly in Southern Kazakhstan. Molecules 2022; 27:molecules27113468. [PMID: 35684407 PMCID: PMC9182240 DOI: 10.3390/molecules27113468] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2022] [Revised: 05/21/2022] [Accepted: 05/23/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
The composition of the ethanolic extract from the aerial parts of Crocus alatavicus Regel & Semen from southern Kazakhstan spontaneous flora was analyzed together with the determination of its antibacterial, antifungal, antiviral and anticancer activity. The phytochemical profile analysis by high-performance liquid chromatography-electrospray ionization-quadrupole-time of flight-mass spectrometry (HPLC/ESI-QTOF-MS) revealed the presence of multiple kaempferol derivatives. High-performance reverse-phase liquid chromatography combined with a photodiode-array detection (RP-HPLC/PDA) found that kaempferol 3-O-dihexoside and kaempferol 3-O-acyltetrahexoside accounted for 70.5% of the kaempferol derivatives. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) values of the extract for all the tested reference microorganisms were high, reaching 10 mg/mL for yeasts and 20 mg/mL for bacteria. In contrast, antiviral activity was observed at 2 mg/mL, resulting in the inhibition of the HSV-1-induced cytopathic effect and the reduction in virus infectious titer by 1.96 log, as well as the viral load by 0.85 log. Among the tested prostate cancer cell lines, significant cytotoxic activity of the extract was noted only on the LNCaP cell line, with an IC50 value of 1.95 mg/mL. The LNCaP cell line treated with 2 mg/mL of the extract showed a noticeably reduced number of spindle-shaped cells with longer cellular projections, a significant increase in the peak corresponding to the population of apoptotic cells in the sub-G1 phase and a decreased intracellular glutathione (GSH) level, suggesting the prooxidative properties of the extract. The obtained data provide novel information about the flavonoids present in the aerial part of C. alatavicus and suggest its potential application as a source of the compounds active against HSV-1 and metastatic, androgen-sensitive prostate cancer.
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El Midaoui A, Ghzaiel I, Vervandier-Fasseur D, Ksila M, Zarrouk A, Nury T, Khallouki F, El Hessni A, Ibrahimi SO, Latruffe N, Couture R, Kharoubi O, Brahmi F, Hammami S, Masmoudi-Kouki O, Hammami M, Ghrairi T, Vejux A, Lizard G. Saffron (Crocus sativus L.): A Source of Nutrients for Health and for the Treatment of Neuropsychiatric and Age-Related Diseases. Nutrients 2022; 14:nu14030597. [PMID: 35276955 PMCID: PMC8839854 DOI: 10.3390/nu14030597] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2022] [Revised: 01/25/2022] [Accepted: 01/27/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Saffron (Crocus sativus L.) is a medicinal plant, originally cultivated in the East and Middle East, and later in some Mediterranean countries. Saffron is obtained from the stigmas of the plant. Currently, the use of saffron is undergoing a revival. The medicinal virtues of saffron, its culinary use and its high added value have led to the clarification of its phytochemical profile and its biological and therapeutic characteristics. Saffron is rich in carotenoids and terpenes. The major products of saffron are crocins and crocetin (carotenoids) deriving from zeaxanthin, pirocrocin and safranal, which give it its taste and aroma, respectively. Saffron and its major compounds have powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties in vitro and in vivo. Anti-tumor properties have also been described. The goal of this review is to present the beneficial effects of saffron and its main constituent molecules on neuropsychiatric diseases (depression, anxiety and schizophrenia) as well as on the most frequent age-related diseases (cardiovascular, ocular and neurodegenerative diseases, as well as sarcopenia). Overall, the phytochemical profile of saffron confers many beneficial virtues on human health and, in particular, on the prevention of age-related diseases, which is a major asset reinforcing the interest for this medicinal plant.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adil El Midaoui
- Department of Pharmacology and Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Montreal, Montreal, QC H3C 3J7, Canada;
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences and Techniques Errachidia, Moulay Ismail University of Meknes, Errachidia 52000, Morocco;
- Laboratory of Genetics, Neuroendocrinology, and Biotechnology, Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, Ibn Tofail University, Kenitra 14020, Morocco; (A.E.H.); (S.O.I.)
- Correspondence: (A.E.M.); (G.L.); Tel.: +1-514-343-6111 (ext. 3320) (A.E.M.); +33-3-80-39-62-56 (G.L.)
| | - Imen Ghzaiel
- Team ‘Biochemistry of the Peroxisome, Inflammation and Lipid Metabolism’, University of Bourgogne Franche-Comte, 21000 Dijon, France; (I.G.); (M.K.); (T.N.); (N.L.); (A.V.)
- Lab-NAFS ‘Nutritio—Functional Food & Vascular Health’, Faculty of Medicine, LR12ES05, University Monastir, Monastir 5000, Tunisia; (A.Z.); (S.H.); (M.H.)
| | - Dominique Vervandier-Fasseur
- Team OCS, Institute of Molecular Chemistry (ICMUB UMR CNRS 6302), University of Bourgogne Franche-Comte, 21000 Dijon, France;
| | - Mohamed Ksila
- Team ‘Biochemistry of the Peroxisome, Inflammation and Lipid Metabolism’, University of Bourgogne Franche-Comte, 21000 Dijon, France; (I.G.); (M.K.); (T.N.); (N.L.); (A.V.)
- Laboratory Neurophysiology, Cellular Physiopathology and Valorisation of Biomolecules, (LR18ES03), Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, University Tunis El Manar, Tunis 2092, Tunisia; (O.M.-K.); (T.G.)
| | - Amira Zarrouk
- Lab-NAFS ‘Nutritio—Functional Food & Vascular Health’, Faculty of Medicine, LR12ES05, University Monastir, Monastir 5000, Tunisia; (A.Z.); (S.H.); (M.H.)
- Laboratory of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, University of Sousse, Sousse 4000, Tunisia
| | - Thomas Nury
- Team ‘Biochemistry of the Peroxisome, Inflammation and Lipid Metabolism’, University of Bourgogne Franche-Comte, 21000 Dijon, France; (I.G.); (M.K.); (T.N.); (N.L.); (A.V.)
| | - Farid Khallouki
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences and Techniques Errachidia, Moulay Ismail University of Meknes, Errachidia 52000, Morocco;
| | - Aboubaker El Hessni
- Laboratory of Genetics, Neuroendocrinology, and Biotechnology, Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, Ibn Tofail University, Kenitra 14020, Morocco; (A.E.H.); (S.O.I.)
| | - Salama Ouazzani Ibrahimi
- Laboratory of Genetics, Neuroendocrinology, and Biotechnology, Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, Ibn Tofail University, Kenitra 14020, Morocco; (A.E.H.); (S.O.I.)
| | - Norbert Latruffe
- Team ‘Biochemistry of the Peroxisome, Inflammation and Lipid Metabolism’, University of Bourgogne Franche-Comte, 21000 Dijon, France; (I.G.); (M.K.); (T.N.); (N.L.); (A.V.)
| | - Réjean Couture
- Department of Pharmacology and Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Montreal, Montreal, QC H3C 3J7, Canada;
| | - Omar Kharoubi
- Laboratory of Experimental Biotoxicology, Biodepollution and Phytoremediation, Faculty of Life and Natural Sciences, University Oran1 ABB, Oran 31000, Algeria;
| | - Fatiha Brahmi
- Laboratory Biomathématique, Biochimie, Biophysique et Scientométrie, Faculté des Sciences de la Nature et de la Vie, Université de Bejaia, Bejaia 06000, Algeria;
| | - Sonia Hammami
- Lab-NAFS ‘Nutritio—Functional Food & Vascular Health’, Faculty of Medicine, LR12ES05, University Monastir, Monastir 5000, Tunisia; (A.Z.); (S.H.); (M.H.)
| | - Olfa Masmoudi-Kouki
- Laboratory Neurophysiology, Cellular Physiopathology and Valorisation of Biomolecules, (LR18ES03), Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, University Tunis El Manar, Tunis 2092, Tunisia; (O.M.-K.); (T.G.)
| | - Mohamed Hammami
- Lab-NAFS ‘Nutritio—Functional Food & Vascular Health’, Faculty of Medicine, LR12ES05, University Monastir, Monastir 5000, Tunisia; (A.Z.); (S.H.); (M.H.)
| | - Taoufik Ghrairi
- Laboratory Neurophysiology, Cellular Physiopathology and Valorisation of Biomolecules, (LR18ES03), Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, University Tunis El Manar, Tunis 2092, Tunisia; (O.M.-K.); (T.G.)
| | - Anne Vejux
- Team ‘Biochemistry of the Peroxisome, Inflammation and Lipid Metabolism’, University of Bourgogne Franche-Comte, 21000 Dijon, France; (I.G.); (M.K.); (T.N.); (N.L.); (A.V.)
| | - Gérard Lizard
- Team ‘Biochemistry of the Peroxisome, Inflammation and Lipid Metabolism’, University of Bourgogne Franche-Comte, 21000 Dijon, France; (I.G.); (M.K.); (T.N.); (N.L.); (A.V.)
- Correspondence: (A.E.M.); (G.L.); Tel.: +1-514-343-6111 (ext. 3320) (A.E.M.); +33-3-80-39-62-56 (G.L.)
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Mykhailenko O, Bezruk I, Ivanauskas L, Georgiyants V. Comparative analysis of apocarotenoids and phenolic constituents of Crocus sativus stigmas from 11 countries: Ecological impact. Arch Pharm (Weinheim) 2022; 355:e2100468. [PMID: 35048403 DOI: 10.1002/ardp.202100468] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2021] [Revised: 12/25/2021] [Accepted: 12/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
The chemical compositions of 15 saffron samples from 11 countries (Morocco, India, Italy, Spain, Germany, Switzerland, Iran, Lithuania, Ukraine, Australia, and Azerbaijan) were evaluated. The samples were analyzed regarding the impact of environmental factors on the composition of apocarotenoids and phenolic constituents. Quantification of saffron metabolites was carried out using high-performance liquid chromatography. It was found that the high content of chlorogenic acid (0.2 mg/g, Ukraine) and ferulic acid (0.28 mg/g, India) was controlled by the duration of solar radiation during plant development. The accumulation of caffeic acid (the higher content 4.88 mg/g, Ukraine) in stigmas depended on the average air temperature. In contrast, the total crocins content according to the correlation analysis depended on the duration of solar radiation, the solar UV index, and the soil type. Rutin was found in all samples (0.83-8.74 mg/g). The highest amount of crocins (average 382.45 mg/g) accumulated in saffron from Italy and Ukraine. Crocins, picrocrocin, safranal, and rutin can further serve as saffron quality markers. All validation parameters were satisfactory and high-performance liquid chromatography methods could be successfully applied for the composition assessment of saffron metabolites. Saffron extracts showed the highest antibacterial activity against Bacillus subtilis, Staphylococcus aureus, and Escherichia coli (MICs 62.5-125 µg/ml).
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Affiliation(s)
- Olha Mykhailenko
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, National University of Pharmacy of Ministry of Health of Ukraine, Kharkiv, Ukraine
| | - Ivan Bezruk
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, National University of Pharmacy of Ministry of Health of Ukraine, Kharkiv, Ukraine
| | - Liudas Ivanauskas
- Department of Analytical and Toxicological Chemistry, Lithuanian University of Health Sciences, Kaunas, Lithuania
| | - Victoriya Georgiyants
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, National University of Pharmacy of Ministry of Health of Ukraine, Kharkiv, Ukraine
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