Chemistry and bioactivity of Gardenia jasminoides

Unveiling molecular mechanisms of pigment synthesis in gardenia (Gardenia jasminoides) fruits through integrative transcriptomics and metabolomics analysis

This study conducted a combined transcriptomics and metabolomics analysis in premature and mature developmental stages of Gardenia jasminoides Ellis fruits to identify the molecular mechanisms of pigment synthesis. The transcriptomics data produced high-quality clean data amounting to 46.98 gigabytes, exhibiting a mapping ratio of 86.36% to 91.43%. Transcriptomics analysis successfully identified about 3,914 differentially expressed genes which are associated with pivotal biological processes, including photosynthesis, chlorophyll, biosynthetic processes, and protein-chromophore linkage pathways. Functional diversity was clarified by the Clusters of Orthologous Groups (COG) classification, which focused mainly on pigment synthesis functions. Pathways analysis using the Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) and Gene Ontology (GO) revealed critical pathways affecting pigment development. Metabolomics studies were carried out utilizing Ultra Performance Liquid Chromatography and mass spectrometry (UPLC-MS). About 480 metabolites were detected via metabolomics investigation, the majority of that were significantly involved in pigment synthesis. Cluster and pathway analyses revealed the importance of pathways such as plant secondary metabolite biosynthesis, biosynthesis of phenylpropanoids and plant hormone signal transduction in pigment synthesis. Current research advances our comprehension of the underlying mechanisms at the molecular level governing pigment synthesis in gardenia fruits, furnishing valuable insights for subsequent investigations.

Geniposide for treating atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease: a systematic review on its biological characteristics, pharmacology, pharmacokinetics, and toxicology

In recent years, the prevalence and fatality rates of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease have not only shown a consistent rise that cannot be ignored, but have also become a pressing social health problem that requires urgent attention. While interventional surgery and drug therapy offer significant therapeutic results, they often come with common side effects. Geniposide, an active component extracted from the Chinese medicine Gardenia jasminoides Ellis, shows promise in the management of cardiac conditions. This review comprehensively outlines the underlying pharmacological mechanisms by which geniposide exerts its effects on atherosclerosis. Geniposide exhibits a range of beneficial effects including alleviating inflammation, inhibiting the development of macrophage foam cells, improving lipid metabolism, and preventing platelet aggregation and thrombosis. It also demonstrates mitochondrial preservation, anti-apoptotic effects, and modulation of autophagy. Moreover, geniposide shows potential in improving oxidative stress and endoplasmic reticulum stress by maintaining the body's antioxidant and oxidative balance. Additionally, this review comprehensively details the biological properties of geniposide, including methods of extraction and purification, as well as its pharmacokinetics and toxicological characteristics. It further discusses the clinical applications of related biopharmaceuticals, emphasizing the potential of geniposide in the prevention and treatment of atherosclerotic cardiovascular diseases. Furthermore, it highlights the limitations of current research, aiming to provide insights for future studies.

Mechanism of Yishen Chuchan decoction intervention of Parkinson's disease based on network pharmacology and experimental verification

The incidence of Parkinson's disease (PD) rises rapidly with the increase of age. With the advent of global aging, the number of patients with PD is rising along with the elderly population, especially in China. Previously, we found that Yishen chuchan decoction (YCD), prescribed based on clinical experience, has the potential of alleviating symptoms, delaying the progression, and controlling the development of PD. Nonetheless, the underlying mechanistic role is yet to be explored.

Aim

This research examined the possible therapeutic effects of YCD in alleviating PD via a systematic approach with network pharmacology and experimental validation, aiming at providing a new understanding of traditional Chinese medicine management regarding PD.

Methods

The chemical structure and properties of YCD were adopted from Traditional Chinese Medicine System Pharmacology Database (TCMSP), SwissADME, PubChem, and PubMed. The potential targets for YCD and PD were identified using Swiss Target Prediction, GeneCard, PubChem, and UniProt. The herbal-component-target network was created via the Cytoscape software. Moreover, by using the STRING database, the protein-protein interaction (PPI) network was screened. Gene function GO and KEGG pathway enrichment analyses were performed via the Metascape database. YCD-medicated Rat Serum from Sprague-Dawley (SD) Rats was prepared, and SH-SY5Y cells were preconditioned with rotenone to develop the PD model. To examine the impact of YCD on these cells and explore the mechanistic role of the p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathway, the cells were pretreated with either serum or a p38 MAPK pathway inhibitor. This study employed the Cell Counting Kit (CCK)-8 assay and Hoechst 33,342 staining to evaluate the viability and morphological changes induced by the YCD-medicated rat serum on rotenone-treated SH-SY5Y cells. Apoptosis was assessed by Flow cytometry. Immunofluorescence staining assessed the microtubule-associated protein 2 (MAP2) level. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) was employed to quantify the concentrations of inflammatory mediators interleukin-1β (IL-1β), interleukin-6 (IL-6) and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α). Also, reactive oxygen species (ROS) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) levels were determined. Western Blotting measured the expression of total and phospho-p38 MAPK (p-p38).

Results

This study identified 65 active components in YCD, which were found to target 801 specific genes. By screening, 63 potential core targets were identified from a pool of 172 overlapping targets between PD and YCD. These targets were examined by GO and KEGG analyses revealing their substantial correlation to MAPK, PI3K-Akt signaling pathways, positively controlling protein phosphorylation, and pathways of neurodegenerative diseases. SH-SY5Y cells were treated with 2 μM rotenone for 48 h, which reduced cell viability to 50 %, and reduced MAP2 expression, increased the rate of apoptosis, oxidative stress, inflammation, and p-p38 expressions. YCD-medicated rat serum significantly improved the viability, reduced the apoptosis rate, and increased the MAP2 expression. YCD-medicated serum increased SOD, reduced ROS and suppressed IL-6, IL-1β and TNF-α levels, thus inhibiting oxidative stress and inflammation in rotenone-treated SH-SY5Y cells. Moreover, YCD-medicated serum substantially lowered the p-p38 expression induced by rotenone. SB203580, a specific inhibitor of p38 MAPK, could also inhibit the p-p38 expression, apoptosis, and restore morphological damage of cells, also improve inflammation and oxidative stress.

Conclusion

YCD enhanced cell viability and reduced apoptosis rate, inflammation, and oxidative stress in vitro. These beneficial effects could potentially involve the suppression of p38 pathway and suppressed the phosphorylation of p38 MAPK.

A metabolomics study on the mechanisms of Gardeniae fructus against α-naphthylisothiocyanate-induced cholestatic liver injury

Gardeniae fructus (GF) is known for its various beneficial effects on cholestatic liver injury (CLI). However, the biological mechanisms through which GF regulates CLI have not been fully elucidated. This study aimed to explore the potential mechanisms of GF against α-naphthylisothiocyanate (ANIT)-induced CLI. First, HPLC technology was used to analyze the chemical profile of the GF extract. Second, the effects of GF on serum biochemical indicators and liver histopathology were examined. Lastly, metabolomics was utilized to study the changes in liver metabolites and clarify the associated metabolic pathways. In chemical analysis, 10 components were identified in the GF extract. GF treatment regulated serum biochemical indicators in ANIT-induced CLI model rats and alleviated liver histological damage. Metabolomics identified 26 endogenous metabolites as biomarkers of ANIT-induced CLI, with 23 biomarkers returning to normal levels, particularly involving primary bile acid biosynthesis, glycerophospholipid metabolism, tryptophan metabolism, and arachidonic acid metabolism. GF shows promise in alleviating ANIT-induced CLI by modulating multiple pathways.

Construction of an explanatory model for predicting hepatotoxicity: a case study of the potentially hepatotoxic components of Gardenia jasminoides

It is well-known that the hepatotoxicity of drugs can significantly influence their clinical use. Despite their effective therapeutic efficacy, many drugs are severely limited in clinical applications due to significant hepatotoxicity. In response, researchers have created several machine learning-based hepatotoxicity prediction models for use in drug discovery and development. Researchers aim to predict the potential hepatotoxicity of drugs to enhance their utility. However, current hepatotoxicity prediction models often suffer from being unverified, and they fail to capture the detailed toxicological structures of predicted hepatotoxic compounds. Using the 56 chemical constituents of Gardenia jasminoides as examples, we validated the trained hepatotoxicity prediction model through literature reviews, principal component analysis (PCA), and structural comparison methods. Ultimately, we successfully developed a model with strong predictive performance and conducted visual validation. Interestingly, we discovered that the predicted hepatotoxic chemical constituents of Gardenia possess both toxic and therapeutic effects, which are likely dose-dependent. This discovery greatly contributes to our understanding of the dual nature of drug-induced hepatotoxicity.

New Findings Regarding the Effects of Selected Blue Food Colorants (Genipin, Patent Blue V, and Brilliant Blue FCF) on the Hemostatic Properties of Blood Components In Vitro

Natural and synthetic colorants present in food can modulate hemostasis, which includes the coagulation process and blood platelet activation. Some colorants have cardioprotective activity as well. However, the effect of genipin (a natural blue colorant) and synthetic blue colorants (including patent blue V and brilliant blue FCF) on hemostasis is not clear. In this study, we aimed to investigate the effects of three blue colorants-genipin, patent blue V, and brilliant blue FCF-on selected parameters of hemostasis in vitro. The anti- or pro-coagulant potential was assessed in human plasma by measuring the following coagulation times: thrombin time (TT), prothrombin time (PT), and activated partial thromboplastin time (APTT). Moreover, we used the Total Thrombus formation Analysis System (T-TAS, PL-chip) to evaluate the anti-platelet potential of the colorants in whole blood. We also measured their effect on the adhesion of washed blood platelets to fibrinogen and collagen. Lastly, the cytotoxicity of the colorants against blood platelets was assessed based on the activity of extracellular lactate dehydrogenase (LDH). We observed that genipin (at all concentrations (1-200 µM)) did not have a significant effect on the coagulation times (PT, APTT, and TT). However, genipin at the highest concentration (200 µM) and patent blue V at the concentrations of 1 and 10 µM significantly prolonged the time of occlusion measured using the T-TAS, which demonstrated their anti-platelet activity. We also observed that genipin decreased the adhesion of platelets to fibrinogen and collagen. Only patent blue V and brilliant blue FCF significantly shortened the APTT (at the concentration of 10 µM) and TT (at concentrations of 1 and 10 µM), demonstrating pro-coagulant activity. These synthetic blue colorants also modulated the process of human blood platelet adhesion, stimulating the adhesion to fibrinogen and inhibiting the adhesion to collagen. The results demonstrate that genipin is not toxic. In addition, because of its ability to reduce blood platelet activation, genipin holds promise as a novel and valuable agent that improves the health of the cardiovascular system and reduces the risk of cardiovascular diseases. However, the mechanism of its anti-platelet activity remains unclear and requires further studies. Its in vivo activity and interaction with various anti-coagulant and anti-thrombotic drugs, including aspirin and its derivatives, should be examined as well.

Rationality of the ethanol precipitation process in modern preparation production of Zishui-Qinggan decoction evaluated by integrating UPLC-QTOF-MS/MS-based chemical profiling/serum pharmacochemistry and network pharmacology

INTRODUCTION

Zishui-Qinggan decoction (ZQD) is a classical traditional Chinese medicine formula (TCMF) for alleviating menopausal symptoms (MPS) induced by endocrine therapy in breast cancer patients. In the production of TCMF modern preparations, ethanol precipitation (EP) is a commonly but not fully verified refining process.

OBJECTIVES

Chemical profiling/serum pharmacochemistry and network pharmacology approaches were integrated for exploring the rationality of the EP process in the production of ZQD modern preparations.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Ultra-performance liquid chromatography-quadrupole time-of-flight tandem mass spectrometry (UPLC-QTOF-MS/MS) was applied to identify the chemical profiles and absorbed components of ZQD. Network pharmacology was used to identify targets and pathways related to MPS-relieving efficacy.

RESULTS

The chemicals of ZQDs without/with EP process (referred to as ZQD-W and ZQD-W-P, respectively) were qualitatively similar with 89 and 87 components identified, respectively, but their relative contents were different; 51 components were detectable in the serum of rats orally administered with ZQD-W, whereas only 19 were detected in that administered with ZQD-W-P. Key targets, such as AKT1, and pathways, such as the PI3K-Akt signalling pathway, affected by ZQD-W and ZQD-W-P were similar, while the neuroactive ligand-receptor interaction pathway among others and the MAPK signalling pathway among others were specific pathways affected by ZQD-W and ZQD-W-P, respectively. The specifically absorbed components of ZQD-W could combine its specific key targets.

CONCLUSION

The EP process quantitatively altered the chemical profiles of ZQD, subsequently affected the absorbed components of ZQD, and then affected the key targets and pathways of ZQD for relieving MPS. The EP process might result in variation of the MPS-relieving efficacy of ZQD, which deserves further in vivo verification.

Inhibition of compound action potentials in the frog sciatic nerve by inchinkoto, a traditional Japanese medicine used for oral mucositis

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to determine the effects of traditional Japanese (Kampo) medicines used to treat oral mucositis on nerve conduction.

METHODS

The effects of Kampo medicines, crude drugs, and chemical compounds on compound action potentials (CAPs) were analyzed using extracellular recordings in frog sciatic nerves.

RESULTS

Among the Kampo medicines, inchinkoto demonstrated the most significant reduction in CAP amplitude, with a half-maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) of 5.4 mg/mL. Hangeshashinto, shosaikoto, hochuekkito, and juzentaihoto also showed a significant reduction. Regarding inchinkoto, Artemisiae Capillari Spica (artemisia) was the most effective crude drug, with an IC50 of 4.2 mg/mL for CAP amplitude reduction, whereas Gardeniae Fructus (gardenia) exerted no significant effect. However, the combined use of artemisia and gardenia reduced the CAP amplitude more effectively than artemisia alone, indicating a synergistic interaction. The chemical ingredient eugenol from artemisia administered at 1 and 3 mmol/L reduced CAP amplitude, whereas other chemical ingredients administered at 0.1 and 1 mmol/L had no significant effects.

CONCLUSIONS

Inchinkoto exhibited the most effective reduction in CAP amplitude in the sciatic nerve of frogs, primarily through the action of artemisia, with potential synergistic interaction between artemisia and gardenia.

Geniposide alleviates cholesterol-induced endoplasmic reticulum stress and apoptosis in osteoblasts by mediating the GLP-1R/ABCA1 pathway

BACKGROUND

Cholesterol (CHO) is an essential component of the body. However, high CHO levels in the body can damage bone mass and promote osteoporosis. CHO accumulation can cause osteoblast apoptosis, which has a negative effect on bone formation. The pathogenesis of osteoporosis is a complicate process that includes oxidative stress, endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress, and inflammation. Geniposide (GEN) is a natural compound with anti-osteoporotic effect. However, the roles of GEN in osteopathogenesis are still unclear. Our previous studies demonstrated that GEN could reduce the accumulation of CHO in osteoblasts and the activation of ER stress in osteoblasts. However, the molecular mechanism of GEN in inhibiting CHO-induced apoptosis in osteoblasts needs to be further investigated.

METHODS

MC3T3-E1 cells were treated with osteogenic induction medium (OIM). Ethanol-solubilized cholesterol (100 µM) was used as a stimulator, and 10 µM and 25 µM geniposide was added for treatment. The alterations of protein expression were detected by western blot, and the cell apoptosis was analyzed by a flow cytometer.

RESULTS

CHO promoted osteoblast apoptosis by activating ER stress in osteoblasts, while GEN alleviated the activation of ER stress and reduced osteoblast apoptosis by activating the GLP-1R/ABCA1 pathway. Inhibition of ABCA1 or GLP-1R could eliminate the protective activity of GEN against CHO-induced ER stress and osteoblast apoptosis.

CONCLUSION

GEN alleviated CHO-induced ER stress and apoptosis in osteoblasts by mediating the GLP-1R/ABCA1 pathway.

Gardenia yellow pigment: Extraction methods, biological activities, current trends, and future prospects

Food coloring plays a vital role in influencing consumers' food choices, imparting vibrant and appealing colors to various food and beverage products. Synthetic food colorants have been the most commonly used coloring agents in the food industry. However, concerns about potential health issues related to synthetic colorants, coupled with increasing consumer demands for food safety and health, have led food manufacturers to explore natural alternatives. Natural pigments not only offer a wide range of colors to food products but also exhibit beneficial bioactive properties. Gardenia yellow pigment is a water-soluble natural pigment with various biological activities, widely present in gardenia fruits. Therefore, this paper aims to delve into Gardenia Yellow Pigment, highlighting its significance as a food colorant. Firstly, a thorough understanding and exploration of various methods for obtaining gardenia yellow pigment. Subsequently, the potential functionality of gardenia yellow pigment was elaborated, especially its excellent antioxidant and neuroprotective properties. Finally, the widespread application trend of gardenia yellow pigment in the food industry was explored, as well as the challenges faced by the future development of gardenia yellow pigment in the field of food and health. Some feasible solutions were proposed, providing valuable references and insights for researchers, food industry professionals, and policy makers.

Comprehensive quality evaluation of different types of Gardeniae Fructus (Zhizi) and Shuizhizi based on LC-MS/MS

Gardeniae Fructus (Zhizi) serves as both a medicinal and edible substance and finds widespread use in various industries. There are often two kinds of medicinal materials in the market: Zhizi and Shuizhizi. Typically, Zhizi with small, round fruit is used for medicinal purposes, while Shuizhizi, characterized by large, elongated fruit, is employed for dyeing. Market surveys have revealed a diverse range of Zhizi types, and modern research indicates that Shuizhizi contains rich chemical components and pharmacological activities. In this study, we collected 25 batches of Zhizi and Shuizhizi samples, categorizing them based on appearance into obovate and round fruits, with seven length grades (A-G). Using the ultra-high performance liquid chromatography coupled with triple quadrupole mass spectrometry (UHPLC-QQQ-MS/MS) method, we simultaneously quantified 13 main chemical components in fruits of Gardenia species. In addition, we compared the weight percentage of the pericarp, flesh, and seeds parts of samples with different traits, and quantified 13 chemical components in different parts. Results indicated that, aside from a few instances of overlapping fruit size ranges, Shuizhizi generally exhibits larger and longer dimensions than Zhizi. The weight proportion of the Shuizhizi pericarp is often higher than that of the Zhizi pericarp. Quantitative results highlighted significant differences in the chemical component content between Zhizi and Shuizhizi, with Shuizhizi generally containing higher levels of iridoids. The PCA and OPLS-DA analysis distinctly divided Shuizhizi and Zhizi, among which three iridoids, two organic acids, and one flavonoid made significant contributions to their classification. Cluster heatmap analysis also demonstrated complete separation between Zhizi and Shuizhizi, with clear distinctions among Zhizi samples from different origins. The distribution of the 13 chemical components in different Zhizi and Shuizhizi parts remained consistent, with iridoids and pigments concentrated in the seeds and flesh, and two organic acids and one flavonoid enriched in the pericarp. In summary, this study contributes valuable insights for classifying Zhizi and offers guidance on the rational use of Shuizhizi and the different parts of Zhizi.

Bidirectional effects of geniposide in liver injury: Preclinical evidence construction based on meta-analysis

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Gardenia jasminoides J.Ellis is widely used to treat liver diseases in traditional Chinese medicine. Geniposide, a major active constituent of Gardenia jasminoides J.Ellis, exerts therapeutic effects against liver injury, however, it also induces hepatotoxicity.

AIM OF THE STUDY

This meta-analysis was designed to determine the mechanisms of both the hepatoprotective and hepatotoxic effects of geniposide.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The articles analysed in this meta-analysis were primarily obtained from five databases. The 10-item SYRCLE risk-of-bias tool was used to evaluate the quality of the included articles. STATA (version 15.1) was used to evaluate the total effect or toxicity sizes. In addition, three-dimensional (3D) dose/time-effect and mechanistic analyses were performed to assess the therapeutic and toxic effects of geniposide.

RESULTS

A total of 25 studies involving 479 animals were included. Meta-analysis revealed that geniposide not only significantly (P < 0.001) increased liver injury indices including ALT and AST levels but also improved liver function by decreasing the levels of ALT, AST and inflammatory factors in animal models of liver injury. The 3D dose/time-effect analysis revealed that geniposide administered at a dose of 20-150 mg/kg for 5-28 days effectively protected the liver without inducing toxicity. Mechanistically, geniposide exerts protective or toxic effects by regulating the TNF-α/NF-κB pathway to control oxidative stress and inflammatory responses.

CONCLUSION

Geniposide exhibits dual pharmacological activity in liver injury. It exerts potent hepatoprotective effects when administered at a dose of 20-150 mg/kg for 5-28 days.

Identification strategy of Fructus Gardeniae and its adulterant based on UHPLC/Q-orbitrap-MS and UHPLC-QTRAP-MS/MS combined with PLS regression model

Fructus Gardeniae (FG) is the desiccative and ripe fruits of Gardenia jasminoides Ellis in the Rubiaceae family, which is a commonly used in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) for clearing away heat, detoxification, relieving restlessness, and eliminating blood stasis. At the same time, it has also been announced as the first batch of TCM with homology of medicine and food. Fructus Gardeniae Grandiflorae (FGG), the fruit of Gardenia jasminoides Ellis var. grandiflora Nakai (Rubiaceae), is a common counterfeit herbal medicine of FG, which still appears in the TCM market, and causes a certain degree of confusion. In order to effectively distinguish FG and its adulterant, the compounds in these two species were thoroughly characterized firstly by ultrahigh-performance liquid chromatography/quadrupole-orbitrap mass spectrometry (UHPLC/Q-Orbitrap MS). Furthermore, a pseudo-targeted metabonomics method with 60 targeted ion pairs was established based on UHPLC-triple quadrupole-linear ion trap mass spectrometry (UHPLC-QTRAP-MS) for discrimination. Multivariate statistical analysis showed that FG and FGG were clustered obviously, and 13 significantly differential markers were screened out by variable importance for projection (VIP) > 1 and p < 0.05 for the construction of the partial least squares (PLS) regression prediction model. The validation of the model proved that its prediction ability was quite satisfactory. Moreover, based on the absolute quantitative analysis of these 13 characteristics, the quality control standards of FG and FFG were established. In summary, an integral method of pseudo-targeted metabonomics combined with chemometrics analysis and a PLS regression model was proposed to provide an effective identification strategy for discrimination FG and FGG.

An increase in Wharton's jelly membrane osteocompatibility by a genipin-cross-link

Wharton's Jelly (WJ) has attracted significant interest in the field of tissue healing thanks to its biological properties, including antibacterial activity and immunomodulation. However, due to the fast degradation and poor mechanical behavior in biological environment, its application in bone regeneration is compromised. Here, we proposed to use genipin as an efficient cross-linking agent to significantly improve the elasticity and the enzymatical stability of the WJ matrix. The degree of cross-linking, linear elastic moduli, and collagenase resistance varied over a wide range depending on genipin concentration. Furthermore, our results highlighted that an increase in genipin concentration led to a decreased surface wettability, therefore impairing cell attachment and proliferation. The genipin cross-linking prevented rapid in vitro and in vivo degradation, but led to an adverse host reaction and calcification. When implanted in the parietal bone defect, a limited parietal bone regeneration to the dura was observed. We conclude that genipin-cross-linked WJ is a versatile medical device however, a careful selection is required with regards to the genipin concentration.

Phytochemicals as treatment for allergic asthma: Therapeutic effects and mechanisms of action

BACKGROUND

Allergic asthma is an inflammatory disease caused by the immune system's reaction to allergens, inflammation and narrowing of the airways, and the production of more than normal mucus. One of the main reasons is an increased production of inflammatory cytokines in the lungs that leads to the appearance of symptoms of asthma, including inflammation and shortness of breath. On the other hand, it has been proven that phytochemicals with their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties can be useful in improving allergic asthma.

PURPOSE

Common chemical treatments for allergic asthma include corticosteroids, which have many side effects and temporarily relieve symptoms but are not a cure. Therefore, taking the help of natural compounds to improve the quality of life of asthmatic patients can be a valuable issue that has been evaluated in the present review.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

In this study, three databases (Scopus, PubMed, and Cochrane) with the keywords: allergic asthma, phytochemical, plant, and herb were evaluated. The primary result was 5307 articles. Non-English, repetitive, and review articles were deleted from the study.

RESULTS AND DISCUSSION

Finally, after carefully reading the articles, 102 were included in the study (2006-2022). The results of this review state that phytochemicals suppress the inflammatory pathways via inhibition of inflammatory cytokines production/secretion, genes, and proteins involved in the inflammation process, reducing oxidative stress indicators and symptoms of allergic asthma, such as cough and mucus production in the lungs.

CONCLUSION

With their antioxidant effects, this study concluded that phytochemicals suppress cytokines and other inflammatory indicators and thus can be considered an adjunctive treatment for improving allergic asthma.

Research Progress in Heterologous Crocin Production

Crocin is one of the most valuable components of the Chinese medicinal plant Crocus sativus and is widely used in the food, cosmetics, and pharmaceutical industries. Traditional planting of C. sativus is unable to fulfill the increasing demand for crocin in the global market, however, such that researchers have turned their attention to the heterologous production of crocin in a variety of hosts. At present, there are reports of successful heterologous production of crocin in Escherichia coli, Saccharomyces cerevisiae, microalgae, and plants that do not naturally produce crocin. Of these, the microalga Dunaliella salina, which produces high levels of β-carotene, the substrate for crocin biosynthesis, is worthy of attention. This article describes the biosynthesis of crocin, compares the features of each heterologous host, and clarifies the requirements for efficient production of crocin in microalgae.

Health oil preparation from gardenia seeds by aqueous enzymatic extraction combined with puffing pre-treatment and its properties analysis

Gardenia jasminoides Ellis, a representative for "homology of medicine and food", can be used to produce pigment and edible oil. Here, aqueous enzymatic extraction (AEE) combined with puffing pre-treatment was explored to prepare oil from gardenia seeds. Both wet-heating puffing (WP) at 90 °C and dry-heating puffing (DP) at 1.0 MPa facilitated the release of free oil by AEE, resulting in the highest free oil yields (FOY) of 21.8% and 23.2% within 3 h, much higher than that of un-puffed group. Additionally, active crocin and geniposide were also completely released. The FOY obtained was much higher than mechanical pressing method (10.44%), and close to solvent extraction (25.45%). Microstructure analysis indicated that gardenia seeds expanded by dry-heating puffing (1.0 MPa) had a larger, rougher surface and porous structure than other groups. Overall, AEE coupled with puffing pre-treatment developed is an eco-friendly extraction technology with high efficiency that can be employed to oil preparation.

Graphical abstract

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s10068-023-01319-9.

Ternifoliasaponin, a new triterpenoid saponin from the roots of Gardenia ternifolia Schumach & Thonn (Rubiaceae)

A new triterpenoid saponin, Ternifoliasaponin (1), together with four known compounds (2-5) chikusetsusaponin IVa (2), chikusetsusaponin IVa methyl ester (3), bonushenricoside B (4) and Dianoside C (5) were isolated from roots of Gardenia ternifolia Schumach. & Thonn (Rubiaceae). The structures of isolated compounds were elucidated on the basis of spectroscopic analysis and chemical methods. The antibacterial activities of compounds (3), and (4) were performed by the Muller-Hinton agar diffusion method. The antimicrobial activities of the compounds were studied on Salmonella typhi (Enterobacteriaceae), Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa microorganisms. Compound (3) at 25 mg/mL, showed moderately sensitive effect (8.0 ˂ DIZ ˂14.0 mm) on S. typhi, S. aureus and P. aeruginosa. Compound (4) at 25 mg/mL and compound (3) at 12.5 mg/mL exhibited moderately sensitive effect on S. typhi and S. aureus. Compound (4) inhibited moderately sensitive the S. typhi and P. aeruginosa colonies at 12.5 mg/mL.

A countercurrent chromatography solvent system based on deep eutectic solvents for separation of cis- and trans-crocetin from Gardenia jasminoides Ellis

Due to the structural similarity and large difference in concentration, the separation of trans- and cis-crocetin has been challenging, and the cis-crocetin is usually neglected. In this work, a countercurrent chromatography method was developed for the quick separation of trans-crocetin and cis-crocetin from the hydrolytic extract of Gardenia jasminoides Ellis. High purity of trans-crocetin (>95%) and cis-crocetin (>91%) were prepared simultaneously for the first time through a novel biphasic system based on deep eutectic solvents, n-heptane/n-butyl alcohol/13 mmol/L Na2 CO3 in water/acetamide-benzyltrimethylammonium chloride (4:1, mol/mol) (4:7:9:1, v/v). The addition of deep eutectic solvent significantly improved the separation efficiency. The two targets can be easily recovered from the separation system through simple acidification and precipitation. It has potential for preparative separations on a large scale.

Gardenia (Gardenia jasminoides Ellis) fruit: a critical review of its functional nutrients, processing methods, health-promoting effects, comprehensive application and future tendencies

Gardenia fruit (GF) is the mature fruit of Gardenia jasminoides Ellis, boasting a rich array of nutrients and phytochemicals. Over time, GF has been extensively utilized in both food and medicinal contexts. In recent years, numerous studies have delved into the chemical constituents of GF and their associated pharmacological activities, encompassing its phytochemical composition and health-promoting properties. This review aims to provide a critical and comprehensive summary of GF research, covering nutrient content, extraction technologies, and potential health benefits, offering new avenues for future investigations and highlighting its potential as an innovative food resource. Additionally, the review proposes novel industrial applications for GF, such as utilizing gardenia yellow/red/blue pigments in the food industry and incorporating it with other herbs in traditional Chinese medicine. By addressing current challenges in developing GF-related products, this work provides insights for potential applications in the cosmetics, food, and health products industries. Notably, there is a need for the development of more efficient extraction methods to harness the nutritional components of GF fully. Further research is needed to understand the specific molecular mechanisms underlying its bioactivities. Exploring advanced processing techniques to create innovative GF-derived products will show great promise for the future.

Whole-genome resequencing analysis of the medicinal plant Gardenia jasminoides

Background

Gardenia jasminoides is a species of Chinese medicinal plant, which has high medicinal and economic value and rich genetic diversity, but the study on its genetic diversity is far not enough.

Methods

In this study, one wild and one cultivated gardenia materials were resequenced using IlluminaHiSeq sequencing platform and the data were evaluated to understand the genomic characteristics of G. jasminoides.

Results

After data analysis, the results showed that clean data of 11.77G, Q30 reached 90.96%. The average comparison rate between the sample and reference genome was 96.08%, the average coverage depth was 15X, and the genome coverage was 85.93%. The SNPs of FD and YP1 were identified, and 3,087,176 and 3,241,416 SNPs were developed, respectively. In addition, SNP non-synonymous mutation, InDel mutation, SV mutation and CNV mutation were also detected between the sample and the reference genome, and KEGG, GO and COG database annotations were made for genes with DNA level variation. The structural gene variation in the biosynthetic pathway of crocin and gardenia, the main medicinal substance of G. jasminoides was further explored, which provided basic data for molecular breeding and genetic diversity of G. jasminoides in the future.

Protective effect and possible mechanisms of geniposide for ischemia-reperfusion injury: A systematic review with meta-analysis and network pharmacology of preclinical evidence

Background

Geniposide, as a pharmacologically bioactive component, is derived from a classic and common Chinese herb, Gardenia jasminoides Ellis. Geniposide has been shown to be effective for treating I/R injury in recent studies. Current effectively pharmaceutical treatments are scarce, and treatment based on geniposide may become a novel option. As far as we know, this research is the initial systematic evaluation of the protective effects of geniposide in I/R injury.

Aim of the study

This study is engrossed in evaluating the mechanism of action of geniposide in I/R injury through a preclinical systematic review with meta-analysis and network pharmacology.

Materials and methods

We built a systematic review which provided a view of effect and mechanism of geniposide for I/R injury. Based on seven databases, an open-ended search from their inception to August 31st, 2022, was conducted. Animal studies on the effects of geniposide in I/R injury were considered. The data was analyzed using Review Manager 5.3, and bias was assessed using the CAMARADES 10-item scale. 13 articles including 279 animals were selected finally. And network pharmacology was joined to elucidate the mechanism.

Results

According to the meta-analysis, in I/R injury, geniposide can attenuate cardiomyocytes viability and the size of MI, decrease the volume of cerebral infraction and neurological score, decrease serum ALT and AST activity, and downregulated serum Cr and BUN. The review found that geniposide protects against I/R injury by inhibiting apoptosis, oxidation, inflammation and improvement of autophagy and mitochondrial respiration, which is consistent with the results of the network pharmacology screening.

Conclusion

This preclinical systematic review including meta-analysis and network pharmacology, which was the first one summarizing the relationship between geniposide and ischemia diseases, shows a novel therapy for I/R injury and appears an enticing implication of geniposide in I/R injury, and further research is looked forward. Given the restricted quantity of included researches and the unclear risk of bias of the studies, we should interpret the results with caution.

Comprehensive Metabolite Identification of Genipin in Rats Using Ultra-High-Performance Liquid Chromatography Coupled with High Resolution Mass Spectrometry

Genipin, an aglycone of geniposide, is a rich iridoid component in the fruit of Gardenia jasminoides Ellis and has numerous biological activities. However, its metabolic profiles in vivo and vitro remain unclear. In this study, an effective analytical strategy based on ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography-high resolution mass spectrometry (UHPLC-HRMS) in positive and negative ion modes was developed to analyze and identify genipin metabolites in rat urine, blood, feces, and fecal fermentation in combination with many methods including post-collection data mining methods, high-resolution extracted ion chromatography (HREIC), and multiple mass defect filtering (MMDF). Simultaneously, the metabolites of genipin in vivo were verified by fecal fermentation of SD rats at different times. Finally, based on information such as reference substances, chromatographic retention behavior, and accurate mass determination, a total of 50 metabolites (including prototypes) were identified in vivo. Among them, 7, 31 and 28 metabolites in vivo were identified in blood, urine, and feces, respectively. Our results showed that genipin could generate different metabolites that underwent multiple metabolic reactions in vivo including methylation, hydroxylation, dehydroxylation, hydrogenation, sulfonation, glucuronidation, demethylation, and their superimposed reactions. Forty-six metabolites were verified in vitro. Meanwhile, 2 and 19 metabolites identified in blood and urine were also verified in fecal fermentation at different times. These results demonstrated that metabolites were produced in feces and reabsorbed into the body. In conclusion, the newly discovered metabolites of genipin can provide a new perspective for understanding its pharmacological effects and build the foundation for thee toxicity and safety evaluations of genipin.

The neuroprotective effect of traditional Chinese medicinal plants-A critical review

Neurodegenerative and neuropsychiatric diseases are increasingly affecting individuals' quality of life, thus increasing their cost to social and health systems. These diseases have overlapping mechanisms, such as oxidative stress, protein aggregation, neuroinflammation, neurotransmission impairment, mitochondrial dysfunction, and excitotoxicity. Currently, there is no cure for neurodegenerative diseases, and the available therapies have adverse effects and low efficacy. For neuropsychiatric disorders, such as depression, the current therapies are not adequate to one-third of the patients, the so-called treatment-resistant patients. So, searching for new treatments is fundamental. Medicinal plants appear as a strong alternative and complement towards new treatment protocols, as they have been used for health purposes for thousands of years. Thus, the main goal of this review is to revisit the neuroprotective potential of some of the most predominant medicinal plants (and one fungus) used in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), focusing on their proven mechanisms of action and their chemical compositions, to give clues on how they can be useful against neurodegeneration progression.

Investigation on the potential adverse outcome pathway of the sensitive endpoint for nephrotoxicity induced by gardenia yellow based on an integrated strategy using bioinformatics analysis and in vitro testing validation

To explore the potential the adverse outcome pathway of Gardenia Yellow (GY)-induced sensitive endpoint for nephrotoxicity, an integrated strategy was applied in the present study. Using bioinformatic analysis, based on the constructed Protein-protein interaction networks, Gene Ontology function and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes pathway enrichment analysis on the core target network were performed to illustrate the potential gene targets and signal pathways. Then, the most enriched pathway was validated with Cell counting kit-8 assays and Western blot analysis in embryonic kidney epithelial 293 cell models. According to the findings, GY may interact with 321 targets related to the endpoint. The five targets on the top ranking in the PPI network were STAT3, SRC, HRAS, AKT1, EP300. Among them, PI3K/Akt was the most enriched pathway. In vitro testing showed that GY exerted a proliferative effect on the cell variability in a dose-dependent manner. GY at concentration of 1000 μg/ml and stimulation for 30 min can significantly enhance the expression of phosphorylated Akt. Thus, after the quantitative weight of evidence evaluation, Akt phosphorylation induced PI3K/Akt activation was speculated as a molecular initiating event leading to a proliferative and inflammatory response in renal tubular epithelial cells.

A novel branched galacturonan from Gardenia jasminoides alleviates liver fibrosis linked to TLR4/NF-κB signaling

Gardenia jasminoides (GJ) is a classic edible medicine in China of which the fruit has been proved to alleviate liver damage. We hypothesized whether polysaccharide in the fruit could have comparable bioactivity. To address this, a novel polysaccharide GJE0.2-2, is purified from the fruit of Gardenia jasminoides. Indeed, GJE0.2-2 may attenuate CCl₄-induced liver fibrosis in mice and impede the expression of critical fibrogenesis associated molecules such as α-SMA, FN1, and Collagen I induced by TGF-β in human hepatic stellate LX-2 cells. Mechanism studies suggest that this bioactivity may be implicated in TLR4/NF-κB signaling pathway via directly binding to TLR4. The structure characterization shows that the backbone of this polysaccharide is mainly composed of galacturonic acid with minor rhamnose, branched with galactose and arabinose, galacturonic acid, and esterified hexenuronic acid (HexpA). These findings provide evidence for a novel pectin-linked polysaccharide-based new drug candidate development for liver fibrosis therapy.

Synthesis of Methylgenipin and Evaluation of Its Anti-Hepatic Injury Activity

Genipin has been the focus of research as a multifunctional compound for the treatment of pathogenic diseases. However, hepatotoxicity caused by oral genipin raises concerns about its safety. To obtain novel derivatives with low toxicity and efficacy, we synthesized methylgenipin (MG), a new compound, using structural modification, and investigated the safety of MG administration. The results showed that the LD₅₀ of oral MG was higher than 1000 mg/kg, no mice died or were poisoned during the experiment in the treatment group, and there was no significant difference in biochemical parameters and liver pathological sections compared with the control. Importantly, MG (100 mg/kg/d) treatment for 7 days reduced alpha-naphthylisothiocyanate (ANIT)-induced increases in liver index, alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alkaline phosphatase (AKP), and total bilirubin (TBIL) levels. Histopathology demonstrated that MG could treat ANIT-induced cholestasis. In addition, using proteomics to investigate the molecular mechanism of MG in the treatment of a liver injury may be related to enhancing antioxidant function. Kit validation showed that ANIT induced an increase in malondialdehyde (MDA) and a decrease in superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione (GSH) levels, while the MG pretreatments, both of which were significantly reversed to some extent, suggested that MG may alleviate ANIT-induced hepatotoxicity by enhancing endogenous antioxidant enzymes and inhibiting oxidative stress injury. In this study, we demonstrate that the treatment of mice with MG does not cause impaired liver function and provide an investigation of the efficacy of MG against ANIT-induced hepatotoxicity, laying the foundation for the safety evaluation and clinical application of MG.

A transcriptomics and network pharmacology approach to elucidate the mechanism of action of geniposide on carbon tetrachloride-induced liver injury in rats

Geniposide, the main active component of Fructus Gardeniae (FG), is known to confer protection against liver diseases. Herein we explored the hepatoprotective effects of geniposide and elucidated its molecular mechanism by transcriptome RNA-seq and network pharmacology. Liver injury was modeled by intraperitoneally injecting CCl₄ (0.15% prepared with refined peanut oil) at a dose of 1.5 mL/kg thrice a week; from the second week, rats were administered geniposide (20 mg/kg or 40 mg/kg) by gavage for 6 weeks. Serum and liver samples were then collected to assess liver function indicators and inflammatory factors and to observe pathological changes in the liver. The Illumina HiSeq 4000 platform was used to obtain transcriptome data from the liver tissue of rats after geniposide administration. Core targets and pathways related to the liver protection mechanism of geniposide were further analyzed by integrating transcriptomics and network pharmacology. Differentially expressed genes (DEGs), core targets, and signaling pathways were identified by methods such as q-PCR, molecular docking, and Western blotting. We found that after geniposide administration, the levels of aspartate aminotransferase, alanine aminotransferase, alkaline phosphatase, and inflammatory factors decreased in the model group, and liver injury cells be effectively repaired. RNA-seq data analysis showed that compared to control group, the model group reversed 1,451 DEGs; further, compared to model group, geniposide reversed 511 DEGs. Eight key targets, including PIK3R1, ACOX3, and EGF, were found through further analyses. Geniposide was determined to mainly regulate the PPAR signaling pathway, apoptosis signaling pathway, and MAPK signaling pathway in liver tissues. To summarize, the protective and restorative effects of geniposide on rat liver may seem to be related to its efficacy in inhibiting the activation of inflammatory pathways, thereby reducing cell apoptosis. Our findings should serve as the basis for the development of functional foods or drugs to prevent and treat liver diseases.

A Pilot Study to Evaluate Genipin in Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa Keratitis Models: Modulation of Pro-Inflammatory Cytokines and Matrix Metalloproteinases

Infectious keratitis is a vision-threatening microbial infection. The increasing antimicrobial resistance and the fact that severe cases often evolve into corneal perforation necessitate the development of alternative therapeutics for effective medical management. Genipin, a natural crosslinker, was recently shown to exert antimicrobial effects in an ex vivo model of microbial keratitis, highlighting its potential to serve as a novel treatment for infectious keratitis. This study aimed to evaluate the antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects of genipin in an in vivo model of Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) and Pseudomonas aeruginosa (P. aeruginosa) keratitis. Clinical scores, confocal microscopy, plate count, and histology were carried out to evaluate the severity of keratitis. To assess the effect of genipin on inflammation, the gene expression of pro- and anti-inflammatory factors, including matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), were evaluated. Genipin treatment alleviated the severity of bacterial keratitis by reducing bacterial load and repressing neutrophil infiltration. The expression of interleukin 1B (IL1B), interleukin 6 (IL6), interleukin 8 (IL8), interleukin 15 (IL15), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), and interferon γ (IFNγ), as well as MMP2 and MMP9, were significantly reduced in genipin-treated corneas. Genipin promoted corneal proteolysis and host resistance to S. aureus and P. aeruginosa infection by suppressing inflammatory cell infiltration, regulating inflammatory mediators, and downregulating the expression of MMP2 and MMP9.

Genipin Crosslinks the Extracellular Matrix to Rescue Developmental and Degenerative Defects, and Accelerates Regeneration of Peripheral Neurons

The peripheral nervous system (PNS) is essential for proper body function. A high percentage of the population suffer nerve degeneration or peripheral damage. For example, over 40% of patients with diabetes or undergoing chemotherapy develop peripheral neuropathies. Despite this, there are major gaps in the knowledge of human PNS development and therefore, there are no available treatments. Familial Dysautonomia (FD) is a devastating disorder that specifically affects the PNS making it an ideal model to study PNS dysfunction. FD is caused by a homozygous point mutation in ELP1 leading to developmental and degenerative defects in the sensory and autonomic lineages. We previously employed human pluripotent stem cells (hPSCs) to show that peripheral sensory neurons (SNs) are not generated efficiently and degenerate over time in FD. Here, we conducted a chemical screen to identify compounds able to rescue this SN differentiation inefficiency. We identified that genipin, a compound prescribed in Traditional Chinese Medicine for neurodegenerative disorders, restores neural crest and SN development in FD, both in the hPSC model and in a FD mouse model. Additionally, genipin prevented FD neuronal degeneration, suggesting that it could be offered to patients suffering from PNS neurodegenerative disorders. We found that genipin crosslinks the extracellular matrix, increases the stiffness of the ECM, reorganizes the actin cytoskeleton, and promotes transcription of YAP-dependent genes. Finally, we show that genipin enhances axon regeneration in an in vitro axotomy model in healthy sensory and sympathetic neurons (part of the PNS) and in prefrontal cortical neurons (part of the central nervous system, CNS). Our results suggest genipin can be used as a promising drug candidate for treatment of neurodevelopmental and neurodegenerative diseases, and as a enhancer of neuronal regeneration.

Anmyungambi Decoction Ameliorates Obesity through Activation of Non-Shivering Thermogenesis in Brown and White Adipose Tissues

Obesity is a burden to global health. Non-shivering thermogenesis of brown adipose tissue (BAT) and white adipose tissue (WAT) is a novel strategy for obesity treatment. Anmyungambi (AMGB) decoction is a multi-herb decoction with clinical anti-obesity effects. Here, we show the effects of AMGB decoction using high-fat diet (HFD)-fed C57BL6/J mice. All four versions of AMGB decoction (100 mg/kg/day, oral gavage for 28 days) suppressed body weight gain and obesity-related blood parameters in the HFD-fed obese mice. They also inhibited adipogenesis and induced lipolysis in inguinal WAT (iWAT). Especially, the AMGB-4 with 2:1:3:3 composition was the most effective; thus, further studies were performed with the AMGB-4 decoction. The AMGB-4 decoction displayed a dose-dependent body weight gain suppression. Serum triglyceride, total cholesterol, and blood glucose decreased as well. In epididymal WAT, iWAT, and BAT, the AMGB-4 decoction increased lipolysis markers. Additionally, the AMGB-4 decoction-fed mice showed an increased non-shivering thermogenic program in BAT and iWAT. Excessive reactive oxygen species (ROS) and suppressed antioxidative factors induced by the HFD feeding were also altered to normal levels by the AMGB-4 decoction treatment. Overall, our study supports the clinical use of AMGB decoction for obesity treatment by studying its mechanisms. AMGB decoction alleviates obesity through the activation of the lipolysis-thermogenesis program and the elimination of pathological ROS in thermogenic adipose tissues.

Metabolite Profiling of Gardenia jasminoides Ellis In Vitro Cultures with Different Levels of Differentiation

Gardenia jasminoides Ellis is an aromatic and medicinal plant of high economic value. Much research has focused on the phytochemistry and biological activities of Gardenia fruit extracts; however, the potential of the Gardenia plant in vitro cultures used as mass production systems of valuable secondary metabolites has been understudied. This paper presents data on metabolite profiling (GC/MS and HPLC), antioxidant activities (DPPH, TEAC, FRAP, and CUPRAC), and SSR profiles of G. jasminoides plant leaves and in vitro cultures with different levels of differentiation (shoots, callus, and cell suspension). The data show strong correlations (r = 0.9777 to r = 0.9908) between antioxidant activity and the concentrations of chlorogenic acid, salicylic acid, rutin, and hesperidin. Eleven co-dominant microsatellite simple sequence repeats (SSRs) markers were used to evaluate genetic variations (average PIC = 0.738 ± 0.153). All of the investigated Gardenia in vitro cultures showed high genetic variabilities (average Na = 5.636 ± 2.157, average Ne = 3.0 ± 1.095). This is the first report on a study on metabolite profiles, antioxidant activities, and genetic variations of G. jasminoides in vitro cultures with different levels of differentiation.

Chemicolome and Metabolome Profiling of Xieriga-4 Decoction, A Traditional Mongolian Medicine, Using the UPLC-QTOF/MS Approach

Background

Xieriga-4 decoction (XRG-4) is a classic prescription Mongolian medicine that has potent diuretic and anti-inflammatory activities. However, its functional components remain unknown.

Purpose

This study aimed to identify the chemical components in XRG-4 and its metabolome in vivo.

Methods

An ultra-performance liquid chromatography coupled with a quadrupole time-of-flight tandem mass spectrometry based approach was proposed to systematically profile the chemicolome and metabolome of XRG-4.

Result

A total of 106 constituents were identified in XRG-4. Eighty-nine components were identified in biological samples, including 78 in urine (24 prototypes and 54 metabolites), 26 in feces (19 prototypes and 7 metabolites), and 9 in plasma (5 prototypes and 4 metabolites). In other tissues, only a few compounds, including alkaloids and iridoids, were detected.

Conclusion

This comprehensive investigation of the chemical and metabolic profiles of XRG-4 provides a scientific foundation for its quality control and administration of clinically-safe medication.

A retrospective study of Pupingqinghua prescription versus Lianhuaqingwen in Chinese participants infected with SARS-CoV-2 Omicron variants

Background: Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) seriously endangers global public health. Pupingqinghua prescription (PPQH) is an herbal formula from traditional Chinese medicine used for treatment of SARS-CoV-2 infection. This study aims to evaluate the clinical efficacy and safety of PPQH in Chinese participants infected with the SARS-CoV-2 Omicron variant. Methods: A total of 873 SARS-CoV-2 (Omicron)-infected patients were included. Among them, the patients were divided into the PPQH group (653 cases) and LHQW group (220 cases) according to different medications. The effectiveness indicators (hematological indicators, Ct values of novel Coronavirus nucleic acid tests, and viral load-shedding time) and safety indicators (liver and kidney function and adverse events) were analyzed. Results: There was no significant difference in baseline characteristics between the PPQH group and the LHQW group, except the gender; After the treatment, the levels of IL-5, IL-6, IL-10, NK cells, and INF-α of the patients in the PPQH group showed a downward trend (p < 0.05); The viral load shedding time was 5.0 (5.0, 7.0) in the PPQH group and 5.0 (4.0, 7.0) in the LHQW group; both PPQH and LHQW can shorten the duration of symptoms of fever, cough, and sore throat. The re-positive rate of COVID-19 test was 1.5 % in the PPQH group and 2.3 % in the LHQW group. In terms of safety, the levels of γ-GTT decreased significantly (p < 0.01); gastrointestinal reaction was the primary adverse reaction, and the reaction rate was 4.7 % in the PPQH group and 9.5 % in the LHQW group. Conclusion: PPQH can shorten the length of hospital stay and improve clinical symptoms of patients with SARS-COV-2 (Omicron), and it also has a good safety profile.

Medicinal and edible plants in the treatment of dyslipidemia: advances and prospects

Dyslipidemia is an independent risk factor of cardiovascular diseases (CVDs), which lead to the high mortality, disability, and medical expenses in the worldwide. Based on the previous researches, the improvement of dyslipidemia could efficiently prevent the occurrence and progress of cardiovascular diseases. Medicinal and edible plants (MEPs) are the characteristics of Chinese medicine, and could be employed for the disease treatment and health care mostly due to their homology of medicine and food. Compared to the lipid-lowering drugs with many adverse effects, such as rhabdomyolysis and impaired liver function, MEPs exhibit the great potential in the treatment of dyslipidemia with high efficiency, good tolerance and commercial value. In this review, we would like to introduce 20 kinds of MEPs with lipid-lowering effect in the following aspects, including the source, function, active component, target and underlying mechanism, which may provide inspiration for the development of new prescription, functional food and complementary therapy for dyslipidemia.

Effect of Gardenia Pomace Supplementation on Growth Performance, Blood Metabolites, Immune and Antioxidant Indices, and Meat Quality in Xiangcun Pigs

To investigate the effect of gardenia pomace (GP) as an unconventional feed of antioxidants, 180 Xiangcun pigs were randomly divided into 3 groups during the finishing period, with 6 replicates per group and 10 pigs per replicate. During the 47-day feeding period, the pigs were fed either a control diet based on corn and soybean meal (control group), or the control diet added with 50 g/kg or 100 g/kg GP (groups GP5 and GP10, respectively). Feed and water were provided ad libitum. One pig per replicate was slaughtered and sampled. The effects on growth performance, meat quality, digestibility, metabolism, and immunity and antioxidant properties of the pigs were investigated. The results showed that GP had no significant effect on the growth performance of Xiangcun pigs. Compared with the control group, the digestibility of crude ash, phosphorus, and crude fibre of pigs in the GP groups improved (p < 0.01), and the content of inosinic acid in the longissimus dorsi muscle increased (p < 0.05). The addition of GP to the diet significantly increased superoxide dismutase (SOD) levels in the liver and spleen, and glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) activity in the longissimus dorsi muscle and spleen (p < 0.05). Additionally, it significantly reduced the contents of malondialdehyde (MDA) in the liver and spleen (p < 0.05). The GP5 group had a higher inosinic acid content in the longissimus dorsi and lower levels of the inflammatory factor interleukin-2 and interleukin-8 than those in the other groups (p < 0.05). The GP10 group had a higher IgA level (p < 0.05). Adding different proportions of GP to the diet improved the a* and b* of the longissimus dorsi muscles of Xiangcun pigs (p < 0.05). In summary, GP, as an unconventional feed, improved the apparent digestibility of the diet and body antioxidant capacity in Xiangcun pigs during the finishing period and did not negatively affect the growth performance or meat quality.

Natural and Engineered Nanomaterials for the Identification of Heavy Metal Ions—A Review

In recent years, there has been much interest in developing advanced and innovative approaches for sensing applications in various fields, including agriculture and environmental remediation. The development of novel sensors for detecting heavy metals using nanomaterials has emerged as a rapidly developing research area due to its high availability and sustainability. This review emphasized the naturally derived and engineered nanomaterials that have the potential to be applied as sensing reagents to interact with metal ions or as reducing and stabilizing agents to synthesize metallic nanoparticles for the detection of heavy metal ions. This review also focused on the recent advancement of nanotechnology-based detection methods using naturally derived and engineered materials, with a summary of their sensitivity and selectivity towards heavy metals. This review paper covers the pros and cons of sensing applications with recent research published from 2015 to 2022.

Yellow pigment from gardenia fruit: structural identification and evaluation of cytotoxic activity in HepG2 cells by induction of apoptosis

The preparation process of yellow pigment (YP) from gardenia (Gardenia jasminoides) fruit was investigated, and the main components of YP were characterized by liquid chromatography-time of flight-mass spectrometer/mass spectrometer (LC-TOF-MS/MS). Furthermore, cytotoxic activity in HepG2 cells by induction of apoptosis was also evaluated. The preparation results indicated that the color value of YP was 498.34, which was 8.6 times higher than crude YP. Fifteen compounds in YP were identified, and crocins were the predominant compounds. The cell experiment results showed that YP inhibited the proliferation of HepG2 cells in a time- and dose-dependent manner. Moreover, YP also inhibited HepG2 cells in G2/M stage, increased the level of intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS), and enhanced cell apoptosis. Real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) analysis revealed the up-regulation of caspase-3, 8, 9, and bax and down-regulation of bcl-2 in HepG2 cells. Overall, these findings suggested that YP had potential cytotoxic activity in HepG2 cells by induction of apoptosis, which might be beneficial to human health.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s10068-022-01133-9.

Stability evaluation of gardenia yellow pigment in the presence of different antioxidants or microencapsulating agents

The chemical instability of gardenia yellow pigment (GYP) limits its utilization in the food industry. In this study, the effects of different antioxidants (0.2% of tea polyphenols, sodium phytate, potassium citrate, and ascorbic acid) and microencapsulating agents (gum Arabic, maltodextrin, inulin, and gum Arabic/maltodextrin) on the degradation of GYP under different conditions (heat, light, and ferric iron) were evaluated. Then, the characteristic properties of microcapsules coated with gum Arabic/maltodextrin, gum Arabic/maltodextrin/tea polyphenols, maltodextrin, and maltodextrin/tea polyphenols were investigated. Furthermore, food models were simulated to evaluate the GYP stability of the microcapsules. The results showed that tea polyphenols, maltodextrin, and gum Arabic/maltodextrin significantly improved the GYP stability. Moreover, the presence of GYP in microcapsules was confirmed by nuclear magnetic resonance and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. In addition, GYP-MD/TP possessed high thermal stability under different cooking methods. PRACTICAL APPLICATION: Gardenia yellow pigment (GYP) is easily degraded under light and high-temperature conditions, which limits its applications in the food industry. This study will provide effective clues for expanding the practical applications of GYP in the natural pigment industry.

An easy way for the hydrolysis, pre-concentration, and chemical stabilization of crocetin from saffron powder

To date there are no methods in the literature leading to crocetin selective concentration from saffron powder aqueous solutions. To this aim, we decided to test the performance of its heterogeneous extraction by means of a panel of 21 synthetic clays, 4 of which demonstrated to selectively retain crocetin in the solid phase after hydrolysis of its digentiobyosil ester (crocin) (and its isomers) and to its chemical stabilization (e.g., oxidation) over time. The best adsorption yield was obtained with zinc hydroxy chloride (66.18 ± 0.06 μg/g dry powder). This phenomenon was assessed by HPLC-DAD analyses after desorption of crocetin from the respective support and assessing its degradation along a period of 30 days. The method we established could represent a good mean to provide pure crocetin from saffron powder, preserving in the meantime its chemical properties for a concrete future exploitation for food pharmaceutical, and cosmetic purposes.

A strategy for attenuation of acute radiation-induced lung injury using crocetin from gardenia fruit

PURPOSE

Radiation-induced lung injury limits the implementation of radiotherapy plans and severely impairs the quality of life. Crocetin has the capability to protect against radiation. This study is aimed at estimate the preventive effect and mechanism of crocetin on acute radiation induced lung injury.

METHODS AND MATERIALS

In this study, we offer a strategy for radiation-induced lung injury by using crocetin, an extract of gardenia fruit. Histopathology, transcriptomics, flow cytometry, and other methods have served to examine the effect and mechanism of crocetin on acute radiation-induced lung injury.

RESULTS

Crocetin effectively alleviates radiation-induced alveolar wall thickening and alveolar destruction. The number of normal alveoli and lung structure of mice is well protected by the prevention of crocetin. It is found that crocetin inhibits necroptosis to achieve effective radioprotection by down regulating the Tnfrsf10b gene in vitro.

CONCLUSION

Crocetin inhibits necroptosis through transcriptional regulation of the Tnfrsf10b gene, thereby preventing radiation-induced lung injury. This work may provide a new strategy for the prevention of lung radiation injury by the extract from Chinese herbal medicine.

Essential Oils of Gardenia jasminoides J. Ellis and Gardenia jasminoides f. longicarpa Z.W. Xie & M. Okada Flowers: Chemical Characterization and Assessment of Anti-Inflammatory Effects in Alveolar Macrophage

Alveolar macrophage is the predominant cell type in the lung and is thought to be the major target for anti-inflammatory therapy in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Aromatherapy using natural essential oils with anti-inflammatory effects for inhalable administration is a potential complementary and alternative therapy for COPD treatment. The Gardenia jasminoides flower is famous for its fragrance in East Asia and is used for treating colds and lung problems in folk medicine. Therefore, in the present study, flower essential oils from two main medicinal gardenia varieties (G. jasminoides J. Ellis and G. jasminoides f. longicarpa Z.W. Xie & M. Okada) were extracted by hydro-distillation, and their chemical components were analyzed by GC-MS. The anti-inflammatory effects of the two essential oils and their main ingredients were further studied on lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced models in murine alveolar macrophages (MH-S). The results indicated that the chemical constituents of the two gardenia varieties were quite different. Alcohol accounted for 53.8% of the G. jasminoides essential oil, followed by terpenes (16.01%). Terpenes accounted for 34.32% of the G. jasminoides f. longicarpa essential oil, followed by alcohols (19.6%) and esters (13.85%). Both the two gardenia essential oils inhibited the LPS-induced nitric oxide (NO) release and reduced the production of tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) and prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) in the MH-S cells. Linalool and α-farnesene dose-dependently reduced the NO release in the MH-S cells. Linalool and α-farnesene did not affect the PGE2 production but regulated the expression of TNF- α. In addition to linalool and α-farnesene, other components in the gardenia flower essential oils appeared to be able to act as anti-inflammatory agents and influence the PGE2 pathway.

Microemulsion Delivery System Improves Cellular Uptake of Genipin and Its Protective Effect against Aβ1-42-Induced PC12 Cell Cytotoxicity

Genipin has attracted much attention for its hepatoprotective, anti-inflammatory, and neuroprotection activities. However, poor water solubility and active chemical properties limit its application in food and pharmaceutical industries. This article aimed to develop a lipid-based microemulsion delivery system to improve the stability and bioavailability of genipin. The excipients for a genipin microemulsion (GME) preparation were screened and a pseudo-ternary phase diagram was established. The droplet size (DS), zeta potential (ZP), polydispersity index (PDI), physical and simulated gastrointestinal digestion stability, and in vitro drug release properties were characterized. Finally, the effect of the microemulsion on its cellular uptake by Caco-2 cells and the protective effect on PC12 cells were investigated. The prepared GME had a transparent appearance with a DS of 16.17 ± 0.27 nm, ZP of −8.11 ± 0.77 mV, and PDI of 0.183 ± 0.013. It exhibited good temperature, pH, ionic strength, and simulated gastrointestinal digestion stability. The in vitro release and cellular uptake data showed that the GME had a lower release rate and better bioavailability compared with that of free genipin. Interestingly, the GME showed a significantly better protective effect against amyloid-β (Aβ1-42)-induced PC12 cell cytotoxicity than that of the unencapsulated genipin. These findings suggest that the lipid-based microemulsion delivery system could serve as a promising approach to improve the application of genipin.

Plants in Anticancer Drug Discovery: From Molecular Mechanism to Chemoprevention

Cancer is one of the primary causes of mortality globally, and the discovery of new anticancer drugs is the most important need in recent times. Natural products have been recognized as effective in fight against various diseases including cancer for over 50 years. Plants and microbes are the primary and potential sources of natural compounds to fight against cancer. Moreover, researches in the field of plant-based natural compounds have moved towards advanced and molecular level understandings from the last few decades, leading to the development of potent anticancer agents. Also, plants have been accepted as abundant and prosperous sources for the development of novel therapeutic agents for the management and prevention of different cancer types. The high toxicity of some cancer chemotherapy drugs, as well as their unfavorable side effects and drugs resistance, drives up the demand for natural compounds as new anticancer drugs. In this detailed evidence-based mechanistic review, facts and information about various medicinal plants, their bioactive compounds with their potent anticancer activities against different cancers have been gathered, with further approach to represent the molecular mechanism behind the anticancer activity of these plants. This review will be beneficial for investigators/scientists globally involved in the development of natural, safe, effective, and economical therapeutic agents/drugs against various cancers. This might be an important contribution in the field of drug discovery, where drugs can be used alone or in combination to increase the efficacy of newly synthesized drugs.

Herbals and Plants in the Treatment of Pancreatic Cancer: A Systematic Review of Experimental and Clinical Studies

Background: Pancreatic cancer represents the most lethal malignancy among all digestive cancers. Despite the therapeutic advances achieved during recent years, the prognosis of this neoplasm remains disappointing. An enormous amount of experimental (mainly) and clinical research has recently emerged referring to the effectiveness of various plants administered either alone or in combination with chemotherapeutic agents. Apart from Asian countries, the use of these plants and herbals in the treatment of digestive cancer is also increasing in a number of Western countries as well. The aim of this study is to review the available literature regarding the efficacy of plants and herbals in pancreatic cancer. Methods: The authors have reviewed all the experimental and clinical studies published in Medline and Embase, up to June 2021. Results: More than 100 plants and herbals were thoroughly investigated. Favorable effects concerning the inhibition of cancer cell lines in the experimental studies and a favorable clinical outcome after combining various plants with established chemotherapeutic agents were observed. These herbals and plants exerted their activity against pancreatic cancer via a number of mechanisms. The number and severity of side-effects are generally of a mild degree. Conclusion: A quite high number of clinical and experimental studies confirmed the beneficial effect of many plants and herbals in pancreatic cancer. More large, double-blind clinical studies assessing these natural products, either alone or in combination with chemotherapeutic agents should be conducted.

High-Purity Preparation of Enzyme Transformed Trans-Crocetin Reclaimed from Gardenia Fruit Waste

The recovery of physiologically bioactive ingredients from agricultural wastes as an abundant and low-cost source for the production of high value-added mutraceuticlas has been recognized and supported for the commercial interests and sustainable managements. In the extraction of geniposide for the development of natural food colorants from the dried fruits of Gardenia jasminoides Rubiaceae, the gardenia fruit waste (GFW) still remaining 0.86% (w/w) of crocins has always been discarded without any further treatments Until now, there was no simple and effective protocol for high-purity trans-crocein (TC) preparation without the coexistence of non-biologically active cis-crocein from GFW. We proposed an effective process to obtain the compound as follows. Crocins were extracted firstly by 50% of ethanol in the highest yield of 8.61 mg/g (w/w) from GFW. After the HPD-100 column fractionation in the collecting of crocins, the conversion ratio of 75% of crocins to crocetins can be obtained from the commercial available enzyme- Celluclast® 1.5 L. The crocins hydrolyzed products, were then separated through the HPD-100 resin adsorption and finally purified with the centrifugal partition chromatography (CPC) in single-step to obtain TC in a purity of 96.76 ± 0.17%. Conclusively, the effective enzyme transformation and purification co-operated with CPC technologies on crocins resulted in a high purity product of TC may be highly application in the commercial production.