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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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Hua Z, Liu N, Yan X. Research progress on the pharmacological activity, biosynthetic pathways, and biosynthesis of crocins. Beilstein J Org Chem 2024; 20:741-752. [PMID: 38633914 PMCID: PMC11022409 DOI: 10.3762/bjoc.20.68] [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: 12/13/2023] [Accepted: 03/22/2024] [Indexed: 04/19/2024] Open
Abstract
Crocins are water-soluble apocarotenoids isolated from the flowers of crocus and gardenia. They exhibit various pharmacological effects, including neuroprotection, anti-inflammatory properties, hepatorenal protection, and anticancer activity. They are often used as coloring and seasoning agents. Due to the limited content of crocins in plants and the high cost of chemical synthesis, the supply of crocins is insufficient to meet current demand. The biosynthetic pathways for crocins have been elucidated to date, which allows the heterologous production of these valuable compounds in microorganisms by fermentation. This review article provides a comprehensive overview of the chemistry, pharmacological activity, biosynthetic pathways, and heterologous production of crocins, aiming to lay the foundation for the large-scale production of these valuable natural products by using engineered microbial cell factories.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhongwei Hua
- State Key Laboratory of Component-based Chinese Medicine, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, No. 10 Poyang Lake Road, Tuanbo New Town, Jinghai District, Tianjin 301617, China
| | - Nan Liu
- School of Chinese Materia Medica, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, No. 10 Poyang Lake Road, Tuanbo New Town, Jinghai District, Tianjin 301617, China
| | - Xiaohui Yan
- State Key Laboratory of Component-based Chinese Medicine, Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, No. 10 Poyang Lake Road, Tuanbo New Town, Jinghai District, Tianjin 301617, China
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3
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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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4
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Haseli R, Honarvar M, Yavari K, Ghavami M. Synergistic anticancer effects of crocin combined with deuterium-depleted water on HT-29 cells. Anticancer Drugs 2023; 34:1162-1170. [PMID: 36847076 DOI: 10.1097/cad.0000000000001512] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/01/2023]
Abstract
Colorectal cancer is one of the most common types of cancer in the world and the study of the role of nutrients in preventing or inhibiting the growth of this cancer is of interest to scientists. In this article, the synergistic effect of deuterium-depleted water(DDW) and crocin at specific concentrations on HT-29 cells was investigated. In this regard, HT-29 cells were grown in RPMI medium containing DDW, alone and in combination with crocin for 24, 48 and 72 h. Cell viability, cell cycle changes and antioxidant enzymes status were determined by MTT assay, flow cytometry and quantitative luminescence methods, respectively. The results of these analyses proved the cell growth inhibitory effect of deuterium alone and its synergistic effect in combination with crocin. The cell cycle analysis showed an increase in the number of cells in the G0 and G1 phases whereas there was a decrease in the number of cells in the S, G2 and M phases. The activities of superoxide dismutase and catalase enzymes also decreased compared to the control group that is a reason to increase Malonyl dialdehyde factor. The results suggested that a combination of DDW and crocin can open a new strategic approach in the prevention and treatment of colorectal cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Reza Haseli
- Department of Food Science and Technology, Science and Research Branch, Islamic Azad University
| | - Masoud Honarvar
- Department of Food Science and Technology, Science and Research Branch, Islamic Azad University
| | - Kamal Yavari
- Nuclear Science and Technology Research Institute, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mehrdad Ghavami
- Department of Food Science and Technology, Science and Research Branch, Islamic Azad University
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Bao X, Hu J, Zhao Y, Jia R, Zhang H, Xia L. Advances on the anti-tumor mechanisms of the carotenoid Crocin. PeerJ 2023; 11:e15535. [PMID: 37404473 PMCID: PMC10315134 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.15535] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2022] [Accepted: 05/19/2023] [Indexed: 07/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Saffron is located in the upper part of the crocus stigma of iridaceae, which has a long history of medicinal use. Crocin (molecular formula C44H64O24) is a natural floral glycoside ester compound extracted from saffron, which is a type carotenoid. Modern pharmacological studies have shown that crocin has multiple therapeutic effects including anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant, anti-hyperlipidemic and anti-stone effects. In recent years, crocin has been widely noticed due to its considerable anti-tumor effects manifested by the induction of tumor cell apoptosis, inhibition of tumor cell proliferation, inhibition of tumor cell invasion and metastasis, enhancement of chemotherapy sensitivity and improvement of immune status. The anti-tumor effects have been shown in various malignant tumors such as gastric cancer, liver cancer, cervical cancer, breast cancer and colorectal cancer. In this review, we compiled recent studies on the anti-tumor effects of crocin and summarized its anti-tumor mechanism for developing ideas of treating malignancies and exploring anti-tumor drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xingxun Bao
- Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
| | - Jinhua Hu
- Shandong Provincial Hospital, Jinan, China
| | - Yan Zhao
- The Third Hospital of Jinan, Jinan, China
| | - Ruixue Jia
- Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
| | | | - Lei Xia
- Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
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An In Vitro Study of Saffron Carotenoids: The Effect of Crocin Extracts and Dimethylcrocetin on Cancer Cell Lines. Antioxidants (Basel) 2022; 11:antiox11061074. [PMID: 35739971 PMCID: PMC9220052 DOI: 10.3390/antiox11061074] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2022] [Revised: 05/17/2022] [Accepted: 05/24/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Crocus sativus L. has various pharmacological properties, known for over 3600 years. These properties are attributed mainly to biologically active substances, which belong to the terpenoid group and include crocins, picrocrocin and safranal. The aim of the current work was to examine the effects of crocins (CRCs) and their methyl ester derivate dimethylcrocetin (DMCRT) on glioblastoma and rhabdomyosarcoma cell lines, in terms of cytotoxicity and gene expression, implicated in proapoptotic and cell survival pathways. Cell cytotoxicity was assessed with Alamar Blue fluorescence assay after treatment with saffron carotenoids for 24, 48 and 72 h and concentrations ranging from 22.85 to 0.18 mg/mL for CRCs and 11.43 to 0.09 mg/mL for DMCRT. In addition, BAX, BID, BCL2, MYCN, SOD1, and GSTM1 gene expression was studied by qRT-PCR analysis. Both compounds demonstrated cytotoxic effects against glioblastoma and rhabdomyosarcoma cell lines, in a dose- and time-dependent manner. They induced apoptosis, via BAX and BID upregulation, MYCN and BCL-2, SOD1, GSTM1 downregulation. The current research denotes the possible anticancer properties of saffron carotenoids, which are considered safe phytochemicals, already tested in clinical trials for their health promoting properties.
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Pan C, Wen Q, Ma L, Qin X, Feng S. Green-emitting silicon nanoparticles as a fluorescent probe for highly-sensitive crocin detection and pH sensing. NEW J CHEM 2022. [DOI: 10.1039/d2nj00690a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Novel green fluorescent silicon nanoparticles were synthesized via a one-pot hydrothermal method and utilized as a fluorescent probe for highly sensitive and accurate detection of crocin and pH sensing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Congjie Pan
- School of Pharmacy, Henan University of Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou, 450046, P. R. China
| | - Qiaoqiao Wen
- School of Pharmacy, Henan University of Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou, 450046, P. R. China
| | - Longfei Ma
- Henan Police College, Zhengzhou, 450046, China
| | - Xuezhen Qin
- School of Pharmacy, Henan University of Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou, 450046, P. R. China
| | - Suxiang Feng
- Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Henan University of Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou, 450046, Henan, China
- Collaborative Innovation Center for Chinese Medicine and Respiratory Diseases co-constructed by Henan province & Education Ministry of P. R. China, Zhengzhou, 450046, Henan, China
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8
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Abbasifarid E, Bolhassani A, Irani S, Sotoodehnejadnematalahi F. Synergistic effects of exosomal crocin or curcumin compounds and HPV L1-E7 polypeptide vaccine construct on tumor eradication in C57BL/6 mouse model. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0258599. [PMID: 34648579 PMCID: PMC8516259 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0258599] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2021] [Accepted: 09/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Cervical cancer is the most common malignant tumor in females worldwide. Human papillomavirus (HPV) infection is associated with the occurrence of cervical cancer. Thus, developing an effective and low-cost vaccine against HPV infection, especially in developing countries is an important issue. In this study, a novel HPV L1-E7 fusion multiepitope construct designed by immunoinformatics tools was expressed in bacterial system. HEK-293T cells-derived exosomes were generated and characterized to use as a carrier for crocin and curcumin compounds. The exosomes loaded with crocin and curcumin compounds as a chemotherapeutic agent (ExoCrocin and ExoCurcumin) were used along with the L1-E7 polypeptide for evaluation of immunological and anti-tumor effects in C57BL/6 mouse model. In vitro studies showed that ExoCrocin and ExoCurcumin were not cytotoxic at a certain dose, and they could enter tumor cells. In vivo studies indicated that combination of the L1-E7 polypeptide with ExoCrocin or ExoCurcumin could produce a significant level of immunity directed toward Th1 response and CTL activity. These regimens showed the protective and therapeutic effects against tumor cells (the percentage of tumor-free mice: ~100%). In addition, both ExoCrocin and ExoCurcumin represented similar immunological and anti-tumor effects. Generally, the use of exosomal crocin or curcumin forms along with the L1-E7 polypeptide could significantly induce T-cell immune responses and eradicate tumor cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elnaz Abbasifarid
- Department of Biology, School of Basic Sciences, Science and Research Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Azam Bolhassani
- Department of Hepatitis and AIDS, Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran, Iran
- * E-mail: ,
| | - Shiva Irani
- Department of Biology, School of Basic Sciences, Science and Research Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
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Zhu J, Zheng S, Liu H, Wang Y, Jiao Z, Nie Y, Wang H, Liu T, Song K. Evaluation of anti-tumor effects of crocin on a novel 3D tissue-engineered tumor model based on sodium alginate/gelatin microbead. Int J Biol Macromol 2021; 174:339-351. [PMID: 33529625 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2021.01.181] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2020] [Revised: 01/18/2021] [Accepted: 01/28/2021] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
Crocin, as one of the biologically active components of saffron, has anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant, anti-depressant and auxiliary anti-tumor effects. Studies have shown that crocin could promote breast cancer cell apoptosis. However, conventional methods are mainly based on two-dimensional (2D) cell culture models, which are difficult to reproduce the tumor environment in vivo due to space constraints. In this study, we prepared a three-dimensional (3D) cell model in vitro based on sodium alginate/gelatin to evaluate the inhibitory effect of crocin on MCF-7 cells, which could bridge the gap in crocin drug evaluation between 2D and 3D cell model in vitro. Different from the 2D culture, the cells were found to aggregate in a spherical shape in the 3D microgel beads. And the CCK-8 assay showed that the growth of MCF-7 cells exposed to crocin was inhibited in a time-related and concentration-related manner. Compared with 2D culture (IC50 that MCF-7 cells treated with crocin at 24 h, 48 h, 72 h: 3.68, 2.55 and 1.53 mg/mL, respectively), the IC50 value of 3D culture (IC50 that MCF-7 cells treated with crocin at 24 h, 48 h, 72 h: 10.12, 6.89 and 6.64 mg/mL, respectively) was significantly increased by 2.77, 2.70, 4.34 times, respectively. Besides, live/dead staining and scanning electron microscope (SEM) revealed that the 2D cultured cells shrank and ruptured after crocin treatment, and the number of living cells was considerably reduced; the size of the cell colonies in the 3D microgel beads decreased.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jingjing Zhu
- State Key Laboratory of Fine Chemicals, Dalian R&D Center for Stem Cell and Tissue Engineering, Dalian University of Technology, Dalian 116024, China; Zhengzhou Institute of Emerging Industrial Technology, Zhengzhou 450000, China
| | - Shuangshuang Zheng
- Zhengzhou Institute of Emerging Industrial Technology, Zhengzhou 450000, China
| | - Hanbo Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Fine Chemicals, Dalian R&D Center for Stem Cell and Tissue Engineering, Dalian University of Technology, Dalian 116024, China
| | - Yiwei Wang
- Burns Research Group, ANZAC Research Institute, University of Sydney, Concord, NSW 2139, Australia
| | - Zeren Jiao
- Artie McFerrin Department of Chemical Engineering, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843-3122, USA
| | - Yi Nie
- Zhengzhou Institute of Emerging Industrial Technology, Zhengzhou 450000, China; Key Laboratory of Green Process and Engineering, Institute of Process Engineering, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100190, China.
| | - Hong Wang
- Department of Spine Surgery, First Affiliated Hospital, Institute of Cancer Stem Cell of Dalian Medical University, Dalian 116011, China.
| | - Tianqing Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Fine Chemicals, Dalian R&D Center for Stem Cell and Tissue Engineering, Dalian University of Technology, Dalian 116024, China.
| | - Kedong Song
- State Key Laboratory of Fine Chemicals, Dalian R&D Center for Stem Cell and Tissue Engineering, Dalian University of Technology, Dalian 116024, China.
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Liu T, Yu S, Xu Z, Tan J, Wang B, Liu YG, Zhu Q. Prospects and progress on crocin biosynthetic pathway and metabolic engineering. Comput Struct Biotechnol J 2020; 18:3278-3286. [PMID: 33209212 PMCID: PMC7653203 DOI: 10.1016/j.csbj.2020.10.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2020] [Revised: 10/15/2020] [Accepted: 10/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Crocins are a group of highly valuable apocarotenoid-derived pigments mainly produced in Crocus sativus stigmas and Gardenia jasminoides fruits, which display great pharmacological activities for human health, such as anticancer, reducing the risk of atherosclerosis, and preventing Alzheimer's disease. However, traditional sources of crocins are no longer sufficient to meet current demands. The recent clarification of the crocin biosynthetic pathway opens up the possibility of large-scale production of crocins by synthetic metabolic engineering methods. In this review, we mainly introduce the crocin biosynthetic pathway, subcellular route, related key enzymes, and its synthetic metabolic engineering, as well as its challenges and prospects, with a view to providing useful references for further studies on the synthetic metabolic engineering of crocins.
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Affiliation(s)
- Taoli Liu
- State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-Bioresources, College of Life Sciences, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
- Guangdong Laboratory for Lingnan Modern Agriculture, Guangzhou 510642, China
| | - Suize Yu
- State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-Bioresources, College of Life Sciences, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
- Guangdong Laboratory for Lingnan Modern Agriculture, Guangzhou 510642, China
| | - Zhichao Xu
- Institute of Medicinal Plant Development, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Jiantao Tan
- State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-Bioresources, College of Life Sciences, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
- Guangdong Laboratory for Lingnan Modern Agriculture, Guangzhou 510642, China
| | - Bin Wang
- State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-Bioresources, College of Life Sciences, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
- Guangdong Laboratory for Lingnan Modern Agriculture, Guangzhou 510642, China
| | - Yao-Guang Liu
- State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-Bioresources, College of Life Sciences, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
- Guangdong Laboratory for Lingnan Modern Agriculture, Guangzhou 510642, China
| | - Qinlong Zhu
- State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-Bioresources, College of Life Sciences, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
- Guangdong Laboratory for Lingnan Modern Agriculture, Guangzhou 510642, China
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11
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Sun C, Nile SH, Zhang Y, Qin L, El-Seedi HR, Daglia M, Kai G. Novel Insight into Utilization of Flavonoid Glycosides and Biological Properties of Saffron ( Crocus sativus L.) Flower Byproducts. JOURNAL OF AGRICULTURAL AND FOOD CHEMISTRY 2020; 68:10685-10696. [PMID: 32924469 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jafc.0c04076] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Saffron (Crocus sativus L.) byproducts are considered as a cheap source of bioactive polyphenolics endowed with potential antioxidant effects. The saffron biowaste is utilized for extraction of flavonoid glycosides and their potential biological properties. The total amount of polyphenolics and polysaccharides was found to be higher in the tepal than in the stamen. The bioactive compounds quercetin-3-O-sophoroside (Q-3-sop) and kaempferol-3-O-sophoroside (K-3-sop) were analyzed using high-performance liquid chromatography equipped with a photodiode array detector (HPLC-PDA) and identified by high-resolution mass spectrometry (HRMS) and nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR). The antioxidant effects were studied using 2,2 diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), 2,2'-azino-bis (3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) diammonium salt (ABTS), ferric ion reducing antioxidant power (FRAP), and oxygen radical absorbance capacity (ORAC); Q-3-sop showed stronger antioxidant effects compared to K-3-sop, crocin-I, and crocin-II. Furthermore, Q-3-sop also inhibited cell apoptosis caused by H2O2 by reducing the levels of cellular reactive oxygen species (ROS). In terms of cytogenetic effects, Q-3-sop revealed no cytogenic effects on onion root meristem cells but chromosomal aberration was observed at the highest dose (200 ppm). Thus, saffron byproducts and its flavonoids could be utilized as natural antioxidant agents with no cytogenetic effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chengtao Sun
- Laboratory of Medicinal Plant Biotechnology, College of Pharmacy, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310053, China
| | - Shivraj Hariram Nile
- Laboratory of Medicinal Plant Biotechnology, College of Pharmacy, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310053, China
| | - Yiting Zhang
- Laboratory of Medicinal Plant Biotechnology, College of Pharmacy, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310053, China
| | - Luping Qin
- Laboratory of Medicinal Plant Biotechnology, College of Pharmacy, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310053, China
| | - Hesham R El-Seedi
- Pharmacognosy Group, Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Uppsala University, Biomedical Centre, Box 574, SE-751 23 Uppsala, Sweden
- International Research Center for Food Nutrition and Safety, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang 212013, China
| | - Maria Daglia
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples Federico II, Naples 80138, Italy
| | - Guoyin Kai
- Laboratory of Medicinal Plant Biotechnology, College of Pharmacy, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310053, China
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12
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Zhang J, Yang S, Wang K, Huang Y, Yang N, Yang Z, Zheng Z, Wang Y. Crocin induces autophagic cell death and inhibits cell invasion of cervical cancer SiHa cells through activation of PI3K/AKT. ANNALS OF TRANSLATIONAL MEDICINE 2020; 8:1180. [PMID: 33241029 PMCID: PMC7576020 DOI: 10.21037/atm-20-5882] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Background Cervical cancer is a prevalent tumor mainly induced by Human Papilloma Virus (HPV). Autophagy was inactivated with HPV to promote cancer progression. Here we explored the effects of crocin on cervical cancer cells, mainly on autophagy and apoptosis. Methods SiHa cells were treated with crocin, and proliferation, metastases, apoptosis and autophagy were measured using a CCK-8 assay, transwell migration assay, flow cytometry and immunofluorescence. Protein levels were measured using western blotting. The antitumor effects of crocin were validated in female BALB/c nude mice injected with SiHa cells. Results The result showed that 2, 4, 8 and 16 mM of crocin significantly reduced the viability of SiHa cells within 24 h. Subsequently, 0, 1, 2 and 4 mM crocin concentrations were used in later experiments. Treatment with crocin reduced invasive cells, while increasing autophagic and apoptotic cells dose-dependently. The enhanced apoptosis and autophagy were partly validated by an increase in cleaved caspase-3/caspase-3, cleaved caspase-9/caspase9, LC3B II/I, Beclin1 and ATG7. AMPK and mTOR were inactivated with crocin treatment, while PI3K was activated. These results indicated that crocin might promote autophagy and apoptosis by inactivating AMPK and mTOR signaling. Tumor progression was inhibited in mice treated with 50 mg/kg/d of crocin, which was demonstrated by smaller tumor volumes, less VEGF expression, more intense caspase-3 staining and increased LC3B II/I in the tumor tissues. Conclusions Crocin inhibited the progression of cervical cancer in vitro and in vivo, possibly through inactivation of AMPK and mTOR, inhibition of proliferation and invasion, and promotion of autophagy and apoptosis. These results support the potential therapeutic value of crocin in treating cervical cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jian Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sichuan Academy of Medical Sciences & Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, Chengdu, China
| | - Shaoping Yang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sichuan Academy of Medical Sciences & Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, Chengdu, China
| | - Kana Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, West China Second Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Yu Huang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sichuan Academy of Medical Sciences & Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, Chengdu, China
| | - Nian Yang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sichuan Academy of Medical Sciences & Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, Chengdu, China
| | - Zhongmei Yang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sichuan Academy of Medical Sciences & Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, Chengdu, China
| | - Zhenrong Zheng
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sichuan Academy of Medical Sciences & Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, Chengdu, China
| | - Yujue Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sichuan Academy of Medical Sciences & Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, Chengdu, China
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Mir MA, Ganai SA, Mansoor S, Jan S, Mani P, Masoodi KZ, Amin H, Rehman MU, Ahmad P. Isolation, purification and characterization of naturally derived Crocetin beta-d-glucosyl ester from Crocus sativus L. against breast cancer and its binding chemistry with ER-alpha/HDAC2. Saudi J Biol Sci 2020; 27:975-984. [PMID: 32127777 PMCID: PMC7042633 DOI: 10.1016/j.sjbs.2020.01.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2019] [Revised: 01/15/2020] [Accepted: 01/16/2020] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Saffron plant (Crocus sativus L.) is being used as a source of saffron spice and medicine to cure or prevent different types of diseases including cancers. We report the isolation, characterization of bioactive small molecule ([crocetin (β-d-glucosyl) ester] from the leaf biowastes of saffron plant of Kashmir, India. MTTC assay and Bio-autography aided approach were used to assess anti-oxidant activity and anti-cancer properties of crocin (s) against DPPH free radical and breast cancer cell line respectively. Crocetin beta-d-glucosyl ester restrained proliferation of human breast adeno-carcinoma cell model (MCF-7) without significantly affecting normal cell line (L-6). Further studies involving molecular mechanics generalized born surface area and molecular docking showed that crocetin beta-d-glucosyl ester exhibits strong affinity for estrogen receptor alpha and histone deacetylase 2 (crucial receptors involved in breast cancer signalling) as evidenced by the negative docking score and binding free energy (BFE) values. Therefore, crocetin beta-d-glucosyl ester from Crocus sativus biowastes showed antiproliferative effect possibly by inhibiting estrogen receptor alpha and HDAC2 mediated signalling cascade.
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Key Words
- Antioxidant
- Breast cancer
- Crocetin beta-d-glucosyl ester
- DMEM, Dulbecco’s Modified Eagle’s Medium
- DPPH, 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl
- FBS, Fetal Bovine serum
- FTIR, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy
- Floral biowastes
- LC-MS/MS, Liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry
- MTT, 3-(4,5–dimethyl thiazol–2–yl)–5–diphenyltetrazolium bromide
- Molecular docking
- NMR, Nuclear magneticresonance
- Saffron
- TLC, Thin layer chromatography
- UV, Ultra violet
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Affiliation(s)
- Mudasir A Mir
- Division of Biotechnology, Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Kashmir, Shalimar, Srinagar 190025, Jammu and Kashmir, India
| | - Shabir Ahmad Ganai
- Division of Basic Sciences and Humanities, Faculty of Agriculture, SKUAST-Kashmir, Wadura, Sopore 193201, Jammu & Kashmir, India
| | - Sheikh Mansoor
- Division of Biochemistry, Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology, Jammu 180009, J&K, India
| | - Sumira Jan
- Division of Basic Science and Humanities, Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Kashmir, Shalimar, Srinagar 190025, Jammu and Kashmir, India
| | - P Mani
- Department of Biotechnology, Annai College of Arts & Science, Kumbakonam, Tamil Nadu 612503, India
| | - Khalid Z Masoodi
- Division of Biotechnology, Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Kashmir, Shalimar, Srinagar 190025, Jammu and Kashmir, India
| | - Henna Amin
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Applied Science and Technology, University of Kashmir, Srinagar, J&K 190006, India
| | - Muneeb U Rehman
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, King Saudi University, P. O. Box. 2460, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia
| | - Parvaiz Ahmad
- Botany and Microbiology Department, College of Science, King Saudi University, P. O. Box. 2460, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia
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Wei M, Zhang R, Zhang F, Zhang Y, Li G, Miao R, Shao S. An Evaluation Approach of Cell Viability Based on Cell Detachment Assay in a Single-Channel Integrated Microfluidic Chip. ACS Sens 2019; 4:2654-2661. [PMID: 31502455 DOI: 10.1021/acssensors.9b01061] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
Due to the heterogeneity of cancer cell populations, the traditional evaluation approach of cell viability based on the cell counting assay is quite inaccurate for the dose-response test of anticancer drugs, cell toxicology assays, and other biochemical stimulations. In this paper, an evaluation approach of cell viability based on the cell detachment assay in a single-channel integrated microfluidic chip is proposed to improve the accuracy of cell viability assessment. The electrodes are coated by fibronectin for specific cell adhesion, and it is biologically significant to study the cell detachment assay in vitro. The maximum number of cells that can be detected by this sensor is about 105 cells (overgrowing), while the minimum is about 100 cells. This method is calibrated with the half-maximal inhibitory concentration assay, and the results show that the cell viability calculated by adhesion strength is more accurate than that evaluated using the cell counting assay. Meanwhile, the shear rate is transformed into shear stress for the comparability among the results in other papers. The most sensitive frequency is also determined as 1 kHz according to normalized impedance. Besides, the impedance of cell adhesion affected by different shear stresses is monitored to study the optimized plan for long-term culture of cells in the integrated microfluidic chip prepared for the cell detachment assay. Adhesion strength τ25, which is the magnitude of shear stress needed to detach 75% of cell population, is introduced to describe the cell adhesion forces. It is calculated and normalized based on the cell detachment assay to evaluate cell viability. The relative errors of the cell detachment method compared with those of the cell counting method decrease by 0.637 (0% FBS), 0.586 (0.5% FBS), and 0.342 (2% FBS).
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15
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Tawfik SS, Elkady AA, El Khouly WA. Crocin mitigates γ-rays-induced hepatic toxicity in rats. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2019; 26:15414-15419. [PMID: 30937741 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-019-04724-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2018] [Accepted: 02/26/2019] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Crocin (C44H64O24) is an isolated bioactive molecule of saffron extract. It has different pharmacological effects such as antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities. In the present study, radioprotective property of crocin was investigated in the rat liver. Thirty-two rats were equally divided into four groups: (1) control (normal saline), (2) crocin (200 mg/kg), (3) γ-rays (6Gy), and (4) crocin plus γ-rays-treated groups. The liver histopathology, serum transaminases (ALT and AST), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interleukin-1β (IL-1β), and hepatic lipid peroxidation, superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), and glutathione peroxidase (GPX) have been assessed. The histopathological result of hepatic tissue in group 3 showed hydropic degeneration and this progressed to focal or spotty necrosis through the lobule. Moreover, some sinusoids are distended with blood or with leukocytic infiltrations. Other cases in group 3 showed periportal leukocytic infiltrations and necrosis extended out from the portal tract to involve hepatic lobules with fibrinous necrosis in portal vessels, while the examination of hepatic tissues of group 4 showed reduced deformities, irregular arrangement, congested hepatic vessels, and necrosis in hepatocytes. The results also showed significant decreased level of liver function activities, inflammatory markers, lipid peroxidation, and increased levels of liver antioxidants enzymes in group 4. Crocin showed moderate protective effect against γ-rays-induced liver toxicity. The antioxidant effect of crocin may be a major reason for its positive impact on liver parameters. Graphical abstract .
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Affiliation(s)
- Sameh Soliman Tawfik
- Health Radiation Research Department, National Center for Radiation Research and Technology (NCRRT), P. O. Box 29, Nasr City, Cairo, Egypt.
- Egyptian Atomic Energy Authority, P. O. Box 29, Nasr City, Cairo, Egypt.
| | - Ahmed Amer Elkady
- Health Radiation Research Department, National Center for Radiation Research and Technology (NCRRT), P. O. Box 29, Nasr City, Cairo, Egypt
- Egyptian Atomic Energy Authority, P. O. Box 29, Nasr City, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Wael Aly El Khouly
- Egyptian Atomic Energy Authority, P. O. Box 29, Nasr City, Cairo, Egypt
- Radiation Protection Department, Nuclear and Radiological Regulatory Authority (NRRA), P. O. Box 7551, Nasr City, Egypt
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