Oral administration of d-limonene controls inflammation in rat colitis and displays anti-inflammatory properties as diet supplementation in humans

Use of Callistemon citrinus as a gastroprotective and anti-inflammatory agent on indomethacin-induced gastric ulcers in obese rats

Background

Obesity leads to an elevated risk of developing gastrointestinal disease such as gastric ulcers. Callistemon citrinus leaf extract has shown antioxidant, antimicrobial, hepatoprotective, and chemoprotective effects against colon cancer. The aim of this study is to evaluate the gastroprotective effect of C. citrinus leaf extract on indomethacin-induced gastric ulcers in obese rats.

Methods

Gastric ulcers were induced in female obese Wistar rats using a single oral dose of indomethacin (IND). In the first stage, the rats were fed with a high fat sugar diet (HFSD) for 15 weeks to induce obesity and, at the same time, the diet of the other group of animals included daily administration of ethanolic C. citrinus leaf extract (250 mg/kg) in addition to HFSD. In the second stage, gastric ulcers were induced with IND (30 mg/kg). The gastroprotective activity of C. citrinus, the inflammatory enzyme activities, and cytokines in the stomach were determined.

Results

C. citrinus produced a reduction of gastric lesions caused by IND. Myeloperoxidase (MPO), cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2), and 5-lipoxygenase (5-LOX) activities also decreased. Although inflammatory biomarkers such as TNFα, IL-6, AOPP, and leptin were significantly decreased by C. citrinus, adiponectin levels increased. Moreover, C. citrinus decreased weight gain and morphological and biochemical parameters.

Conclusion

The use of indomethacin in rats fed with a high fat-sugar diet increased gastric ulcers. Gastroprotective effect of C. citrinus in obese rats is attributed to the reduction of pro-inflammatory cytokines and the inflammatory enzymes.

Crithmum maritimum L.-Study on the Histochemical Localization of Essential Oil

Crithmum maritimum L. is a perennial halophyte plant that is a medicinal herb known by people from different cultures since ancient times. However, the therapeutic potential of this halophyte has not been completely investigated, and the scientific data on it are limited. The purpose of the present study was to estimate the chemical composition of the essential oil (EO) obtained from the aerial parts of Crithmum maritimum L. growing wild in Bulgaria, as well as the histolocalization of secretory structures for the synthesis and accumulation of volatile oils. The results obtained on the EO composition of Bulgarian Crithmum maritimum L. provide an opportunity to reveal potential future applications in various fields, such as medicine, pharmacy, agriculture, food, and the cosmetic industry. Gas chromatography with mass spectrometry was performed to assess the chemical profile of the isolated EO. The phenylpropanoid dillapiole was identified as the major compound in the EO, accounting for 34.09% of the total EO. Monoterpene hydrocarbons represented 62.07% of the total oil composition. γ-Terpinene, D-limonene, and β-pinene were the most abundant monoterpene hydrocarbons in the composition of the EO. In addition, histochemical localization of EO in the stem and leaves of Crithmum maritimum L. was carried out. The secretory structures were located in the cortical region of the stem and in the mesophyll tissues of the leaves in the form of secretory ducts. The performed histochemical analysis confirmed the lipophilic nature of the secretion from the duct cells. This is the first report related to the histolocalization and chemical composition of the EO from Bulgarian Crithmum maritimum L. Furthermore, our data indicate some potential possibilities for the evaluation of the therapeutic activity of the EO obtained from this plant species and outline its future applications as a therapeutic agent. Also, the EO from the studied halophyte plant has prominent potential to be used as a biopesticide, which is an environmentally friendly option compared to standard pesticides.

ITRAQ-based proteomics analysis of human ectopic endometrial stromal cells treated by Maqian essential oil

BACKGROUND

Endometriosis is a common and complex syndrome characterized by the presence of endometrial-like tissue outside the uterus. Chinese medicine has been recently found to show good efficacy in treating endometriosis. Our previous results revealed that Maqian fruit essential oil (MQEO) could inhibit the proliferation and induce apoptosis of ectopic endometrial stromal cells (EESCs), but the mechanisms remain unclear. In this study, we aim to explore the molecular mechanism of MQEO's specific effects in EESCs.

METHODS

We conducted a quantitative proteomics analysis by iTRAQ on EESCs treated with MQEO or DMSO. Then deep analysis was performed based on differentially expressed proteins, including Gene Ontology enrichment analysis, pathway enrichment analysis and protein interaction analysis. Candidate protein targets were subsequently verified by western blotting.

RESULTS

Among 6575 identified proteins, 435 proteins exhibited altered expression levels in MQEO-treated EESCs. Of these proteins, most were distributed in signal transduction as well as immune system and the most significantly altered pathway was complement and coagulation cascades. Moreover, two differentially expressed proteins (Heme oxygenase 1 and Acyl-CoA 6-desaturase) were verified and they can be potential biomarkers for endometriosis treatment.

CONCLUSIONS

Our proteomic analysis revealed distinct protein expression patterns induced by MQEO treatment in EESCs, highlighting the potential of MQEO for endometriosis treatment and biomarker discovery.

Proposed mechanisms of action of herbal drugs and their biologically active constituents in the treatment of coughs: an overview

Various medicinal plants find their use in cough treatment, based on traditions and long-term experience. Pharmacological principles of their action, however, are much less known. Herbal drugs usually contain a mixture of potentially active compounds, which can manifest diverse effects. Expectorant or antitussive effects, which can be accompanied by others, such as anti-inflammatory or antibacterial, are probably the most important in the treatment of coughs. The aim of this review is to summarize the current state of knowledge of the effects of medicinal plants or their constituents on cough, based on reliable pharmacological studies. First, a comprehensive description of each effect is provided in order to explain the possible mechanism of action in detail. Next, the results related to individual plants and substances are summarized and critically discussed based on pharmacological in vivo and in vitro investigation.

Effect of Piper nigrum essential oil in dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-induced colitis and its potential mechanisms

BACKGROUND

Piper nigrum essential oil (PnEO) possesses pleasant aroma, unique flavor, and various bioactivities; however, its role against colitis remains unclear.

PURPOSE

In this study, we investigated the role of PnEO in relieving colitis and explored its potential mechanisms in a mouse model of dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-induced colitis.

METHODS

Initially, we identified and quantified the components of PnEO by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). Subsequently, we investigated the protective role of PnEO (50 and 200 mg/kg) in DSS-induced colitis in mice by evaluating disease activity index (DAI) scores and colon length, and performing histological analyses. Eyeball blood was collected and cytokines were determined using ELISA kits. The anti-inflammatory mechanisms of PnEO were analyzed by western blot (WB) and immunohistochemistry (IHC). The intestinal barrier function was evaluated according to tight junction (TJ) protein mRNA levels. We used 16S rRNA gene sequencing to analyze the intestinal microflora of mouse cecal contents.

RESULTS

Supplementation with PnEO (50 and 200 mg/kg) increased colon length and improved colon histopathology. PnEO regulated inflammatory responses by downregulating TLR4/MAPKs activation, thereby reducing the release of cytokines and mediators. Moreover, it also protected the intestinal barrier through enhancing the expression of claudin-1, claudin-3, occludin, ZO-1, and mucin 2. 16S rRNA gene sequencing revealed that PnEO (200 mg/kg) decreased the abundance of Akkermansia in the gut microbiome.

CONCLUSION

PnEO treatment (50 and 200 mg/kg) relieved DSS-induced colitis by inhibiting TLR4/MAPK pathway and protecting intestinal barrier, and high-dose PnEO exhibited better effects. Moreover, PnEO (200 mg/kg) regulated key compositions of the gut microbiome, which indicated that it had therapeutic potential for sustaining gut health to lower the risk of colitis.

Bio-organic fertilizers promote yield, chemical composition, and antioxidant and antimicrobial activities of essential oil in fennel (Foeniculum vulgare) seeds

The aromatic fennel plant (Foeniculum vulgare Miller) is cultivated worldwide due to its high nutritional and medicinal values. The aim of the current study was to determine the effect of the application of bio-organic fertilization (BOF), farmyard manure (FM) or poultry manure (PM), either individually or combined with Lactobacillus plantarum (LP) and/or Lactococcus lactis (LL) on the yield, chemical composition, and antioxidative and antimicrobial activities of fennel seed essential oil (FSEO). In general, PM + LP + LL and FM + LP + LL showed the best results compared to any of the applications of BOF. Among the seventeen identified FSEO components, trans-anethole (78.90 and 91.4%), fenchone (3.35 and 10.10%), limonene (2.94 and 8.62%), and estragole (0.50 and 4.29%) were highly abundant in PM + LP + LL and FM + LP + LL, respectively. In addition, PM + LP + LL and FM + LP + LL exhibited the lowest half-maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) values of 8.11 and 9.01 μg mL-1, respectively, compared to L-ascorbic acid (IC50 = 35.90 μg mL-1). We also observed a significant (P > 0.05) difference in the free radical scavenging activity of FSEO in the triple treatments. The in vitro study using FSEO obtained from PM + LP + LL or FM + LP + LL showed the largest inhibition zones against all tested Gram positive and Gram negative bacterial strains as well as pathogenic fungi. This suggests that the triple application has suppressive effects against a wide range of foodborne bacterial and fungal pathogens. This study provides the first in-depth analysis of Egyptian fennel seeds processed utilizing BOF treatments, yielding high-quality FSEO that could be used in industrial applications.

Decoding the Postulated Entourage Effect of Medicinal Cannabis: What It Is and What It Isn't

The 'entourage effect' term was originally coined in a pre-clinical study observing endogenous bio-inactive metabolites potentiating the activity of a bioactive endocannabinoid. As a hypothetical afterthought, this was proposed to hold general relevance to the usage of products based on Cannabis sativa L. The term was later juxtaposed to polypharmacy pertaining to full-spectrum medicinal Cannabis products exerting an overall higher effect than the single compounds. Since the emergence of the term, a discussion of its pharmacological foundation and relevance has been ongoing. Advocates suggest that the 'entourage effect' is the reason many patients experience an overall better effect from full-spectrum products. Critics state that the term is unfounded and used primarily for marketing purposes in the Cannabis industry. This scoping review aims to segregate the primary research claiming as well as disputing the existence of the 'entourage effect' from a pharmacological perspective. The literature on this topic is in its infancy. Existing pre-clinical and clinical studies are in general based on simplistic methodologies and show contradictory findings, with the clinical data mostly relying on anecdotal and real-world evidence. We propose that the 'entourage effect' is explained by traditional pharmacological terms pertaining to other plant-based medicinal products and polypharmacy in general (e.g., synergistic interactions and bioenhancement).

Terpenes: Modulating anti-inflammatory signaling in inflammatory bowel disease

Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) are autoimmune diseases characterized by chronic intestinal inflammation. Considered a western disease, IBD incidence in newly developed countries is skyrocketing. Accordingly, global prevalence is steadily increasing. There are two major IBD phenotypes, ulcerative colitis (UC) and Crohn's disease (CD). UC manifests as uninterrupted inflammation localized in the colon and rectum. Meanwhile, CD presents as interrupted inflammation that can occur throughout the digestive tract. As a result, therapeutics have focused on anti-inflammatory approaches for its treatment. Unfortunately, only 50% of patients benefit from current Food and Drug Administration approved treatments, and all are associated with serious adverse effects. Thus, there is a need for safer and novel therapeutics to increase the efficacy in this population. One aspect that is critical in understanding IBD is how food and phytochemicals therein may be associated with modifying the pathogenesis of IBD. A variety of retrospective and prospective studies, and clinical trials have shown benefits of plant-rich diets on the prevention and symptomatic improvement of IBD. The Mediterranean diet is rich in vegetables, fruits, legumes, and herbs; and characterized by the abundance of anti-inflammatory phytochemicals. An understudied phytochemical class enriched in this diet is terpenes; isoprene-based molecules are widely available in Mediterranean herbs and citrus fruits. Various terpenes have been evaluated in different IBD models. However, some present contradictory or inconclusive results. Therefore, in this review we evaluated preclinical studies of terpenes modulating basic inflammatory signaling related to IBD.

In-silico studies on wild orange (Citrus macroptera Mont.) compounds against COVID-19 pro-inflammation targets

One-fifth of COVID-19 patients suffer a severe course of COVID-19 (SARS-CoV-2) infection; however, the specific causes remain unclear. Despite numerous papers that have been flooded in different scientific journals clear clinical picture of COVID-19 aftermath persists to remain fuzzy. The survivors of severe COVID-19infection having defeated the virus are just the starting of an uncharted recovery path. Currently, there is no drug available that is safe to consume to combat this pandemic. However, researchers still struggling to find specific therapeutic solutions. The present study employed an in silico approach to assessing the inhibitory potential of the phytochemicals obtained from GC-MS analysis of Citrus macroptera against inflammatory proteins like COX-2, NMDAR and VCAM-1 which remains in a hyperactive state even after a patient is fully cured of this deadly mRNA virus. An extensive molecular docking investigation of the phyto-compounds at the active binding pockets of the inflammatory proteins revealed the promising inhibitory potential of the phytochemicals. Reasonable physicochemical attributes of the compounds following Lipinski's rule of five, VEBER and PAINS analysis further established them as potential therapeutic candidates against aforesaid inflammatory proteins. MM-GBSA binding free energy estimation revealed that Limonene was the most promising candidate displaying the highest binding efficacy with the concerned VCAM-1 protein included in the present analysis. An interesting finding is the phytochemicals exhibited better binding energy scores with the concerned COX-2, VCAM-1 and NMDA receptor proteins than the conventional drugs that are specifically targeted against them. Our in silico results suggest that all the natural phyto-compounds derived from C. macroptera could be employed in Post covid inflammation complexities after appropriate pre-clinical and clinical trials for further scientific validation.Communicated by Ramaswamy H. Sarma.

Expression of VEGF and CD-31 in traumatic ulcer of diabetic Wistar rats after application of Citrus limon peel essential oil

Objective

Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a metabolic disease that delays the healing process, including the interruption of the processes of angiogenesis and vasculogenesis. The etiology of most angiogenic-related diseases, such as diabetes complications, includes the presence of hypoxia caused by declined vascular endothelium growth factor (VEGF) and CD-31. d-limonene, one of the main constituents of Citrus limon, is considered to have angiogenic, antioxidant, hypoglycemic, and anti-inflammatory activities. However, the exact mechanism of this process remains unclear. This study aimed to determine the potential of C. limon as a medication for diabetic ulceration.

Methods

A total of 30 Wistar rats (Rattus novergicus) induced with DM and traumatic ulcers on the lower lip mucosa were divided into six groups-three each for control and treatment groups. Control groups were treated with CMC 5% gel, and treatment groups were administered with C. limon peel essential oil gel. The expression of VEGF and CD-31 was observed on days 5, 7, and 9. Immunohistochemical examinations were performed with the monoclonal antibodies anti-VEGF and anti-CD-31. ANOVA was conducted to analyze the differences between the groups (p < 0.05).

Result

An increase in VEGF and CD-31 expression in the treatment group was observed compared with that of the control group (p < 0.05).

Conclusion

Citrus limon peel essential oil gel increased VEGF and CD-31 expression during the healing process of traumatic ulcers in diabetes-afflicted Wistar rats.

Anti-inflammatory properties of an aldehydes-enriched fraction of grapefruit essential oil

Chronic inflammation is linked to the development of numerous diseases and is accompanied by increased cytokine secretion. Macrophages provide a first line of defense against pathogens that under inflammatory stimuli release pro-inflammatory cytokines. The essential oil (EO) fractions obtained from Citrus spp. rich in different compounds have gained the attention of both researchers and users during the last decades. In particular, grapefruit (Citrus paradisi) peel is rich in phenolics and flavonoids with several health benefits, including anti-inflammatory actions. Additionally, its EO consists of a large number of compounds such as monoterpenes, sesquiterpenes, alcohols, aldehydes, esters, and oxides. Among the methods for encapsulating EOs, spray-drying is the main one. In the present study, we aimed to determine the in vitro anti-inflammatory activity of EO from C. paradisi (grapefruit essential oil [GEO]) (whole and fractions) in a lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced inflammation model. Results indicate that Fr-GEO and Fr-GEO_SD exert protective effects against LPS-induced inflammation by decreasing gene expression and levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines as IL-6 and TNF-α. Monoterpenes as the most common components, as well as aldehydes and sesquiterpenes, might be responsible for such effects, although a synergistic action is not excluded. Furthermore, a higher percent of aldehydes is linked to improved olfactory properties. Our findings support the anti-inflammatory effects of selected Fr-GEO with a great potential for the development of new nutraceuticals and/or functional food for the treatment of inflammatory-associated diseases. PRACTICAL APPLICATION: The findings of this study support the anti-inflammatory effects of selected Fr-GEO with a great potential for the development of new nutraceuticals and/or functional food for the treatment of inflammatory-associated diseases.

Treatment Effects of Natural Products on Inflammatory Bowel Disease In Vivo and Their Mechanisms: Based on Animal Experiments

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a chronic, non-specific inflammatory disease of the intestine that can be classified as ulcerative colitis (UC) and Crohn's disease (CD). Currently, the incidence of IBD is still increasing in developing countries. However, current treatments for IBD have limitations and do not fully meet the needs of patients. There is a growing demand for new, safe, and highly effective alternative drugs for IBD patients. Natural products (NPs) are used in drug development and disease treatment because of their broad biological activity, low toxicity, and low side effects. Numerous studies have shown that some NPs have strong therapeutic effects on IBD. In this paper, we first reviewed the pathogenesis of IBD as well as current therapeutic approaches and drugs. Further, we summarized the therapeutic effects of 170 different sources of NPs on IBD and generalized their modes of action and therapeutic effects. Finally, we analyzed the potential mechanisms of NPs for the treatment of IBD. The aim of our review is to provide a systematic and credible summary, thus supporting the research on NPs for the treatment of IBD and providing a theoretical basis for the development and application of NPs in drugs and functional foods.

Long-Term Ingestion of Sicilian Black Bee Chestnut Honey and/or D-Limonene Counteracts Brain Damage Induced by High Fat-Diet in Obese Mice

Obesity is linked to neurodegeneration, which is mainly caused by inflammation and oxidative stress. We analyzed whether the long-term intake of honey and/or D-limonene, which are known for their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory actions, when ingested separately or in combination, can counteract the neurodegeneration occurring in high fat diet (HFD)-induced obesity. After 10 weeks of HFD, mice were divided into: HFD-, HFD + honey (HFD-H)-, HFD + D-limonene (HFD-L)-, HFD + honey + D-limonene (HFD-H + L)-fed groups, for another 10 weeks. Another group was fed a standard diet (STD). We analyzed the brain neurodegeneration, inflammation, oxidative stress, and gene expression of Alzheimer's disease (AD) markers. The HFD animals showed higher neuronal apoptosis, upregulation of pro-apoptotic genes Fas-L, Bim P27 and downregulation of anti-apoptotic factors BDNF and BCL2; increased gene expression of the pro-inflammatory IL-1β, IL-6 and TNF-α and elevated oxidative stress markers COX-2, iNOS, ROS and nitrite. The honey and D-limonene intake counteracted these alterations; however, they did so in a stronger manner when in combination. Genes involved in amyloid plaque processing (APP and TAU), synaptic function (Ache) and AD-related hyperphosphorylation were higher in HFD brains, and significantly downregulated in HFD-H, HFD-L and HFD-H + L. These results suggest that honey and limonene ingestion counteract obesity-related neurodegeneration and that joint consumption is more efficacious than a single administration.

Can natural products modulate cytokine storm in SARS-CoV2 patients?

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Immune reaction CoV2 can cause uncontrolled systemic inflammatory responses called cytokine storm.

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Medicinal plants and their secondary metabolites are potential modulators of cytokine storm.

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Secondary metabolites modulate inflammatory signaling associated with CoV2.

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The potential applicability of natural products against CoV2 need to be evaluated in strictly defined clinical research.

Currently, the number of cases and deaths of SARS-CoV2, especially among the chronic disease groups, due to aggressive SARS-CoV2 infection is increasing day by day. Various infections, particularly viral ones, cause a cytokine storm resulting in shortness of breath, bleeding, hypotension, and ultimately multi-organ failure due to over-expression of certain cytokines and necrosis factors. The most prominent clinical feature of SARS-CoV2 is the presence of elevated proinflammatory cytokines in the serum of patients with SARS-CoV2. Severe cases exhibit higher levels of cytokines, leading to a “cytokine storm” that further increases disease severity and causes acute respiratory distress syndrome, multiple organ failure, and death. Therefore, targeted cytokine production could be a potential therapeutic option for patients severely infected with SARS-CoV2.

Given the current scenario, great scientific progress has been made in understanding the disease and its forms of treatment. Because of natural ingredients properties, they have the potential to be used as potential agents with the ability to modulate immune responses. Moreover, they can be used safely because they have no toxic effects, are biodegradable and biocompatible. However, these natural substances can continue to be used in the development of new therapies and vaccines.

Finally, the aim and approach of this review article is to highlight current research on the possible use of natural products with promising potential as immune response activators. Moreover, consider the expected use of natural products when developing potential therapies and vaccines.

The role of a moisture-barrier latex in controlling retention, stability and release of D-limonene from complex coacervated matrix microparticles formed during spray drying

Limonene from citrus peel oil is valued as fragrance and flavor additives in food and beverages; however, D-limonene is highly volatile and oxygen-sensitive, thus present storage and stability challenges in food products. A novel, industrially-scalable microencapsulation by in situ complex coacervation during spray drying process (CoCo process) was applied to encapsulate limonene in alginate-gelatin matrix microparticles. Specifically, we investigated the potential to improve upon prior work demonstrating volatile retention and enteric release of limonene from the complex coacervated (CoCo) microcapsules by incorporating ethylcellulose to improve moisture and oxygen barrier properties of the encapsulation matrix. We hypothesized that ethylcellulose, commonly used as a water-barrier coating with pharmaceuticals, would enhance the ability of CoCo microcapsules to retain and shelf-stabilize limonene. The CoCo process alone could achieve limonene retention of 77.7% ± 1.3% during spray drying, with only ∼10% limonene loss and low oxidation rate after 3-weeks of storage in ambient conditions. Contrary to expectations, incorporating ethylcellulose with the CoCo formulation increased volatile losses of limonene during spray drying and during prolonged storage. Moreover, CoCo powders with ethylcellulose accelerated limonene release in water and simulated gastric fluid, and decelerated release in simulated intestinal fluid—a result that was contrary to targeting enteric release. Instead of simply forming a protective water barrier film in the microparticles during spray drying as envisioned, ethylcellulose appeared to bring limonene to the particle surfaces, thereby enhancing volatile losses, facilitating oxidation and accelerating release in acidic aqueous media. Using ethylcellulose as a model, this study demonstrated the potential to formulate CoCo microparticles using latex excipients to control burst release of the payload followed by long-lasting sustained release in air and in aqueous environments.

Classification of Japanese Pepper (Zanthoxylum piperitum DC.) from Different Growing Regions Based on Analysis of Volatile Compounds and Sensory Evaluation

The Japanese pepper (Zanthoxylum piperitum DC.) is an attractive plant that is highly palatable and benefits human health. There are several lineages of pepper plants in Japan. However, the classification of each lineage by analyzing its volatile compounds and studies on the effects of differences in volatile compounds on human flavor perception have not been performed in detail. Herein, we conducted gas chromatography (GC) and GC/mass spectrometry (GC/MS) analysis of volatile compounds and sensory evaluation of flavor by an analytical panel using 10 commercially available dry powdered Japanese pepper products from different regions. GC and GC/MS analysis detected limonene, β-phellandrene, citronellal, and geranyl acetate as the major volatile compounds of Japanese peppers. The composition of volatile compounds showed different characteristics depending on the growing regions, and cluster analysis of composition classified the products into five groups. The sensory evaluation classified the products into four groups, and the results of both classifications were in good agreement. Our results provide an important basis for proposing cooking and utilization methods that take advantage of the unique characteristics of each lineage based on scientific evidence.

Ethanol Extract of Pinus koraiensis Leaves Mitigates High Fructose-Induced Hepatic Triglyceride Accumulation and Hypertriglyceridemia

Pinus koraiensis is a valuable plant source of functional health foods and medicinal materials. Hypertriglyceridemia affects about 15–20% of adults and is related to stroke, metabolic syndromes, cardiovascular diseases, and diabetes mellitus. Dietary fructose, a risk factor for developing hypertriglyceridemia, significantly increases postprandial triglyceride (TG) levels and aggravates non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. In this study, we aimed to analyze the effect of ethanol extract from P. koraiensis needles (EPK) on fructose (Fr)-induced cell culture and animal models, respectively. Our team determined the bioactivity, such as anti-cancer, anti-obesity, anti-diabetic, and anti-hyperlipidemic functions, of P. koraiensis needle extract. The EPK markedly reduced TG levels in the liver and serum and enhanced TG excretion through feces in high-fructose-fed rats. Furthermore, the EPK inhibited de novo lipogenesis and its markers—carbohydrate response element-binding protein (ChREBP), sterol regulatory element-binding protein 1 (SREBP-1), fatty acid synthase (FAS), 3-Hydroxy-3-Methylglutaryl-CoA Reductase (HMGCR), and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), a pro-inflammatory marker. Consistent with the results of the in vivo experiment, the EPK decreased SREBP-1, ChREBP, HMGCR, FAS, TNF-α, and iNOS expression levels, resulting in slower lipid accumulation and lower TG levels in Fr-induced HepG2 cells. These findings suggest that EPK mitigates hypertriglyceridemia and hepatic TG accumulation by inhibiting de novo lipogenic and pro-inflammatory factors.

Efficacy and safety of a food supplement with standardized menthol, limonene, and gingerol content in patients with irritable bowel syndrome: A double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial

Background

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) affects 9,2% of the global population and places a considerable burden on healthcare systems. Most medications for treating IBS, including spasmolytics, laxatives, and antidiarrheals, have low efficacy. Effective and safe therapeutic treatments have yet to be developed for IBS.

Purpose

This study assessed the efficacy and safety of a food supplement containing standardized menthol, limonene, and gingerol in human participants with IBS or IBS/functional dyspepsia (FD).

Design

A double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial.

Methods

We randomly assigned 56 patients with IBS or IBS/FD to an intervention group (Group 1) or control group (Group 2) that were given supplement or placebo, respectively, in addition to the standard treatment regimen for 30 d. Three outpatient visits were conducted during the study. Symptom severity was measured at each visit using a 7×7 questionnaire. Qualitative and quantitative composition of the intestinal microbiota were assessed at visits 1 and 3 based on 16S rRNA gene sequencing.

Results

At visit 1 (before treatment), the median total 7×7 questionnaire score was in the moderately ill range for both groups, with no difference between the groups (p = 0.1). At visit 2, the total 7×7 score decreased to mildly ill, with no difference between the groups (p = 0.4). At visit 3, the total score for group 1 indicated borderline illness and for group 2 remained indicated mild illness (p = 0.009). Even though we observed some variations in gut microbiota between the groups, we did not find any statistically significant changes.

Conclusion

The food supplement with standardized menthol, limonene, and gingerol content increased the efficacy of standard therapy in IBS and FD patients. The use of the supplement did not cause any obvious side effects.

Registration

ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT04484467

Exploring the Therapeutic Potential of Phytochemicals in Alzheimer’s Disease: Focus on Polyphenols and Monoterpenes

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a chronic, complex neurodegenerative disorder mainly characterized by the irreversible loss of memory and cognitive functions. Different hypotheses have been proposed thus far to explain the etiology of this devastating disorder, including those centered on the Amyloid-β (Aβ) peptide aggregation, Tau hyperphosphorylation, neuroinflammation and oxidative stress. Nonetheless, the therapeutic strategies conceived thus far to treat AD neurodegeneration have proven unsuccessful, probably due to the use of single-target drugs unable to arrest the progressive deterioration of brain functions. For this reason, the theoretical description of the AD etiology has recently switched from over-emphasizing a single deleterious process to considering AD neurodegeneration as the result of different pathogenic mechanisms and their interplay. Moreover, much relevance has recently been conferred to several comorbidities inducing insulin resistance and brain energy hypometabolism, including diabetes and obesity. As consequence, much interest is currently accorded in AD treatment to a multi-target approach interfering with different pathways at the same time, and to life-style interventions aimed at preventing the modifiable risk-factors strictly associated with aging. In this context, phytochemical compounds are emerging as an enormous source to draw on in the search for multi-target agents completing or assisting the traditional pharmacological medicine. Intriguingly, many plant-derived compounds have proven their efficacy in counteracting several pathogenic processes such as the Aβ aggregation, neuroinflammation, oxidative stress and insulin resistance. Many strategies have also been conceived to overcome the limitations of some promising phytochemicals related to their poor pharmacokinetic profiles, including nanotechnology and synthetic routes. Considering the emerging therapeutic potential of natural medicine, the aim of the present review is therefore to highlight the most promising phytochemical compounds belonging to two major classes, polyphenols and monoterpenes, and to report the main findings about their mechanisms of action relating to the AD pathogenesis.

Neuroprotective Potential of Limonene and Limonene Containing Natural Products

Limonene is a monoterpene confined to the family of Rutaceae, showing several biological properties such as antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anticancer, antinociceptive and gastroprotective characteristics. Recently, there is notable interest in investigating the pharmacological effects of limonene in various chronic diseases due to its mitigating effect on oxidative stress and inflammation and regulating apoptotic cell death. There are several available studies demonstrating the neuroprotective role of limonene in neurodegenerative diseases, including Alzheimer's disease, multiple sclerosis, epilepsy, anxiety, and stroke. The high abundance of limonene in nature, its safety profile, and various mechanisms of action make this monoterpene a favorable molecule to be developed as a nutraceutical for preventive purposes and as an alternative agent or adjuvant to modern therapeutic drugs in curbing the onset and progression of neurodegenerative diseases. This manuscript presents a comprehensive review of the available scientific literature discussing the pharmacological activities of limonene or plant products containing limonene which attribute to the protective and therapeutic ability in neurodegenerative disorders. This review has been compiled based on the existing published articles confined to limonene or limonene-containing natural products investigated for their neurotherapeutic or neuroprotective potential. All the articles available in English or the abstract in English were extracted from different databases that offer an access to diverse journals. These databases are PubMed, Scopus, Google Scholar, and Science Direct. Collectively, this review emphasizes the neuroprotective potential of limonene against neurodegenerative and other neuroinflammatory diseases. The available data are indicative of the nutritional use of products containing limonene and the pharmacological actions and mechanisms of limonene and may direct future preclinical and clinical studies for the development of limonene as an alternative or complementary phytomedicine. The pharmacophore can also provide a blueprint for further drug discovery using numerous drug discovery tools.

Anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties of Moroccan medicinal plants: Phytochemistry, in vitro and in vivo investigations, mechanism insights, clinical evidences and perspectives

Moroccan medicinal plants exhibit several pharmacological properties such as antimicrobial, anticancer, antidiabetic, analgesic, and anti-inflammatory effects, which are related to the presence of numerous bioactive compounds, including phenolic acids, flavonoids, and terpenoids. In the present review, we systematically evaluate previously published reports on the anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects of Moroccan medicinal plants. The in vitro investigations revealed that Moroccan medicinal plants inhibit several enzymes related to inflammatory processes, whereas in vivo studies noted significant anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects as demonstrated using different experimental models. Various bioactive compounds exhibiting in vitro and in vivo anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects, with diverse mechanisms of action, have been identified. Some plants and their bioactive compounds reveal specific secondary metabolites that possess important anti-inflammatory effects in clinical investigations. Our review proposes the potential applications of Moroccan medicinal plants as sources of anti-inflammatory and analgesic agents.

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Anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects of Moroccan medicinal plants were highlighted.

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Chemical nature of Moroccan medicinal plants with anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects was reported.

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Insights into anti-inflammatory mechanisms of bioactive compounds were highlighted.

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Toxicological investigations of Moroccan medicinal plants were reviewed.

Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry-Based Classification of 12 Fennel (Foeniculum vulgare Miller) Varieties Based on Their Aroma Profiles and Estragole Levels as Analyzed Using Chemometric Tools

Fennel (Foeniculum vulgare Miller) is a popular aromatic plant native to the Mediterranean basin and cultivated worldwide that is valued for the nutritional and health benefits of its fruits. Headspace solid-phase microextraction of 12 fennel accessions of cultivated (F. vulgare subsp. vulgare) and wild forms (F. vulgare subsp. piperitum) of different origins was carried out for assessing their volatile distribution. Fifty-four volatiles were identified, with ethers amounting for the major class at ca. 52-99% attributed to the abundance of (E)-anethole and estragole. Several subsp. vulgare accessions proved to be excellent sources of the chief aroma (E)-anethole (95.9-98.4%), whereas high levels of estragole at ca. 72% were observed in subsp. piperitum from Minia and Khartoum and must be considered in the safety assessment of fennel. Other volatile classes were detected including ketones, esters, aldehydes, alcohols, and hydrocarbons (monoterpenes, sesquiterpenes, and diterpenes). Fenchone exceeded 15% of the total volatiles in some fennel specimens, linked to a conspicuous bitter aftertaste. The members of subsp. piperitum were more enriched in monoterpene hydrocarbons with sabinene found exclusively in these, while subsp. vulgare comprised a higher content of ethers. Principle component analysis determined isoterpinolene as a special component in subsp. piperitum. In all specimens from the same group, estragole was the most distinguished volatile compound according to the findings from orthogonal partial least squares-discriminant analysis. The highest estimated estragole levels were detected in subsp. piperitum from Minia at 89.8 mg/g. This comparative study provides the first comprehensive insight into volatile profiling of 12 fennel fruit varieties.

The Effect of Aromatherapy Massage With Lavender and Citrus Aurantium Essential Oil on Quality of Life of Patients on Chronic Hemodialysis: A Parallel Randomized Clinical Trial Study

CONTEXT

Poor quality of life is a major problem in hemodialysis patients.

OBJECTIVES

This study was conducted to assess the effect of aromatherapy massage on hemodialysis patients' quality of life.

METHODS

In this parallel randomized clinical trial study, 105 hemodialysis patients who meet the inclusion criteria were assessed and assigned into intervention and control groups using block randomization. Participants in the intervention groups received aromatherapy massage with Lavender essential oil or Citrus Aurantium essential oil for four weeks (three times per week). For the control group, only foot massage was performed. The level of quality of life was measured by the 36-Item Short-Form Health Survey questionnaire (SF-36) before and after the intervention. Data analysis was performed using descriptive and inferential statistics (analysis of variance, chi-square, and Fisher's exact tests).

RESULTS

There was a significant difference between the mean score of quality of life in the Lavender essential oil group and Citrus Aurantium essential oil group with the control group after intervention. However, there was no significant difference between the mean score of quality of life in the Lavender essential oil group and Citrus Aurantium essential oil group after the intervention.

CONCLUSIONS

In this study, both aromatherapy massages have positive effects on the quality of life of hemodialysis patients. Therefore, nurses are advised to use these aromatherapy massages to improve the quality of life of hemodialysis patients.

Dietary phytochemicals that influence gut microbiota: Roles and actions as anti-Alzheimer agents

The last decide has witnessed a growing research interest in the role of dietary phytochemicals in influencing the gut microbiota. On the other hand, recent evidence reveals that dietary phytochemicals exhibit properties of preventing and tackling symptoms of Alzheimer's disease, which is a neurodegenerative disease that has also been linked with the status of the gut microbiota over the last decade. Till now, little serious discussions, however, have been made to link recent understanding of Alzheimer's disease, dietary phytochemicals and the gut microbiota together and to review the roles played by phytochemicals in gut dysbiosis induced pathologies of Alzheimer's disease. Deciphering these connections can provide insights into the development and future use of dietary phytochemicals as anti-Alzheimer drug candidates. This review aims at presenting latest evidence in the modulating role of phytochemicals in the gut microbiota and its relevance to Alzheimer's disease and summarizing the mechanisms behind the modulative activities. Limitations of current research in this field and potential directions will also be discussed for future research on dietary phytochemicals as anti-Alzheimer agents.

Can limonene be a possible candidate for evaluation as an agent or adjuvant against infection, immunity, and inflammation in COVID-19?

Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) caused by novel severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) is an ongoing pandemic and presents a public health emergency. It has affected millions of people and continues to affect more, despite the tremendous social preventive measures. The therapeutic strategy relies on suppressing infectivity and inflammation, along with immune modulation. The identification of candidate drugs effective for COVID-19 is crucial, thus many natural products including phytochemicals are also being proposed for repurposing and evaluated for their potential in COVID-19. Among numerous phytochemicals, limonene (LMN), a dietary terpene of natural origin has been recently showed to target viral proteins in the in-silico studies. LMN is one of the main compounds identified in many citrus plants, available and accessible in diets and well-studied for its therapeutic benefits. Due to dietary nature, relative safety and efficacy along with favorable physicochemical properties, LMN has been suggested to be a fascinating candidate for further investigation in COVID-19. LMN showed to modulate numerous signaling pathways and inhibits inflammatory mediators, including cytokines, chemokines, adhesion molecules, prostanoids, and eicosanoids. We hypothesized that given the pathogenesis of COVID-19 involving infection, inflammation, and immunity, LMN may have potential to limit the severity and progression of the disease owing to its immunomodulatory, anti-inflammatory, and antiviral properties. The present article discusses the possibilities of LMN in SARS-CoV-2 infections based on its immunomodulatory, anti-inflammatory, and antiviral properties. Though, the suggestion on the possible use of LMN in COVID-19 remains inconclusive until the in-silico effects confirmed in the experimental studies and further proof of the concept studies. The candidature of LMN in COVID-19 treatment somewhat appear speculative but cannot be overlooked provided favorable physiochemical and druggable properties. The safety and efficacy of LMN are necessary to be established in preclinical and clinical studies before making suggestions for use in humans.

Optimal Design of THEDES Based on Perillyl Alcohol and Ibuprofen

Therapeutic deep eutectic systems (THEDES) have dramatically expanded their popularity in the pharmaceutical field due to their ability to increase active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) bioavailability. However, their biological performance has not yet been carefully scrutinized. Herein, THEDES based on the binary mixture of perillyl alcohol (POH) and ibuprofen (IBU) were prepared using different molar ratios. Our comprehensive strategy includes the characterization of their thermal and structural behavior to identify the molar ratios that successfully form deep eutectic systems. The in vitro solubility of the different systems prepared has demonstrated that, unlike other reported examples, the presence of the terpene did not affect the solubility of the anti-inflammatory agent in a physiological simulated media. The biological performance of the systems was studied in terms of their antimicrobial activity against a wide panel of microorganisms. The examined THEDES showed relevant antimicrobial activity against all tested microbial strains, with the exception of P. aeruginosa. A synergistic effect from the combination of POH and IBU as a eutectic system was verified. Furthermore, the cytotoxic profile of these eutectic systems towards colorectal cancer (CRC) in vitro cell models was also evaluated. The results provide the indication that the cell viability varies in a dose-dependent manner, with a selective THEDES action towards CRC cells. With tunable bioactivities in a ratio-dependent manner, THEDES enhanced the antimicrobial and anticancer properties, representing a possible alternative to conventional therapies. Therefore, this study provides foreseeable indications about the utility of THEDES based on POH and IBU as strong candidates for novel active pharmaceutical systems.

Intestinal Anti-Inflammatory Activity of Terpenes in Experimental Models (2010-2020): A Review

Inflammatory bowel diseases (IBDs) refer to a group of disorders characterized by inflammation in the mucosa of the gastrointestinal tract, which mainly comprises Crohn’s disease (CD) and ulcerative colitis (UC). IBDs are characterized by inflammation of the intestinal mucosa, are highly debilitating, and are without a definitive cure. Their pathogenesis has not yet been fully elucidated; however, it is assumed that genetic, immunological, and environmental factors are involved. People affected by IBDs have relapses, and therapeutic regimens are not always able to keep symptoms in remission over the long term. Natural products emerge as an alternative for the development of new drugs; bioactive compounds are promising in the treatment of several disorders, among them those that affect the gastrointestinal tract, due to their wide structural diversity and biological activities. This review compiles 12 terpenes with intestinal anti-inflammatory activity evaluated in animal models and in vitro studies. The therapeutic approach to IBDs using terpenes acts basically to prevent oxidative stress, combat dysbiosis, restore intestinal permeability, and improve the inflammation process in different signaling pathways.

Menthacarin attenuates experimental colitis

BACKGROUND

Peppermint oil and caraway oil are established remedies in gastroenterological medicine because of their spasmolytic/analgesic effects.

PURPOSE

We investigated whether Menthacarin, a combination of both oils, exerted anti-inflammatory effects in a dextran sodium sulphate (DSS, 2%) murine model of colitis.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

C57BL/6 mice were orally administered Menthacarin in doses of 10, 30, 60, and 120 µg/g body weight (BW), and control mice received 0.2% agar, 10 µl/g BW, during 8 days of DSS-induced colitis. Colitis was monitored by BW measurements and colonoscopies. Colons of euthanised mice were excised for histological staining and ELISA measurements of the cytokines TNFα, IL-6, IL-10, IL-1β, and TGF-β.

RESULTS

Menthacarin-treated mice compared to controls showed improved macroscopical and microscopical parameters and lower BW loss during the course of colitis. Menthacarin changed the colonic cytokine profile towards a regulatory/anti-inflammatory phenotype.

CONCLUSION

Menthacarin attenuates experimental colitis and may be a promising add-on therapy for the treatment of IBD.

p-Cymene and Rosmarinic Acid Ameliorate TNBS-Induced Intestinal Inflammation Upkeeping ZO-1 and MUC-2: Role of Antioxidant System and Immunomodulation

p-Cymene (p-C) and rosmarinic acid (RA) are secondary metabolites that are present in medicinal herbs and Mediterranean spices that have promising anti-inflammatory properties. This study aimed to evaluate their intestinal anti-inflammatory activity in the trinitrobenzene sulphonic acid (TNBS)-induced colitis model in rats. p-C and RA (25-200 mg/kg) oral administration reduced the macroscopic lesion score, ulcerative area, intestinal weight/length ratio, and diarrheal index in TNBS-treated animals. Both compounds (200 mg/kg) decreased malondialdehyde (MDA) and myeloperoxidase (MPO), restored glutathione (GSH) levels, and enhanced fluorescence intensity of superoxide dismutase (SOD). They also decreased interleukin (IL)-1β and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, and maintained IL-10 basal levels. Furthermore, they modulated T cell populations (cluster of differentiation (CD)4+, CD8+, or CD3+CD4+CD25+) analyzed from the spleen, mesenteric lymph nodes, and colon samples, and also decreased cyclooxigenase 2 (COX-2), interferon (IFN)-γ, inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), and nuclear transcription factor kappa B subunit p65 (NFκB-p65) mRNA transcription, but only p-C interfered in the suppressor of cytokine signaling 3 (SOCS3) expression in inflamed colons. An increase in gene expression and positive cells immunostained for mucin type 2 (MUC-2) and zonula occludens 1 (ZO-1) was observed. Altogether, these results indicate intestinal anti-inflammatory activity of p-C and RA involving the cytoprotection of the intestinal barrier, maintaining the mucus layer, and preserving communicating junctions, as well as through modulation of the antioxidant and immunomodulatory systems.

Hepatoprotective effect of limonene against chronic immobilization induced liver damage in rats

Prolonged immobilization may impair the physiological functions of various organs of the body, including the liver, brain, and heart. In this study, we investigated the hepatoprotective effect of limonene (a monoterpene) in male rats exposed to chronic immobilization. Rats were exposed to immobilization stress (6 h/21 days) and received limonene (10 mg/kg, oral gavage) during this period. Chronic immobilization increased the levels of liver enzymes alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase, and alkaline phosphatase in serum. Increased levels of malondialdehyde and decreased glutathione content were also observed in the liver tissue of immobilized rats. Expression of TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6, and NF-κB mRNA was increased, and infiltrated cells were also observed in the liver parenchyma in rats exposed to chronic immobilization. Limonene prevented all these changes in immobilized rats. These results suggest that limonene, due to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, rescues the liver from damages caused by chronic immobilization.

Preventative and therapeutic effects of fennel (Foeniculum vulgare) seed extracts against necrotizing enterocolitis

We aimed to understand the efficacy of fennel (Foeniculum vulgare: FV) extract in an experimental necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) model. Forty-two rat pups were divided into three groups as NEC, NEC treated with fennel extract, and control. At the end of the experiment, tissue samples were taken from the proximal colon and ileum for biochemical and immuno-histological studies including hematoxylin-eosin and Caspase-3-8-9 immunohistochemical staining. Bowel damage and apoptosis were found to be less in the NEC + FV group. Oxidant stress, caspase 3, TNF-α, and IL-6 levels were considerably decreased in the NEC + FV group. Antioxidants were significantly higher in the NEC + FV group more than in the NEC group. Moreover, protein, DNA damage, and lipid peroxidation were found to be decreased in the NEC + FV group compared to the NEC group. PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS: Intense inflammation, oxidant stress, apoptosis, and infection are important in the development of NEC. Fennel has anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, antifungal, antiviral, immunomodulatory effects. Fennel extract might be a novel option in the treatment of NEC through its anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-apoptotic, and cytoprotective features.

Biochemical evaluation and molecular docking assessment of the anti-inflammatory potential of Phyllanthus nivosus leaf against ulcerative colitis

Ulcerative colitis (UC) is an inflammation of the colon that can progress to colorectal cancer if left untreated. No medication completely cures UC and natural products are sources of alternative approaches. This study aimed to determine the anti-inflammatory potential of Phyllanthus nivosus leaf extract and fractions in a rat model of ulcerative colitis and to identify the active ingredients. UC was induced in rats by intra-rectal infusion of 1ml of 4% acetic acid (AA) in normal saline. AA exposed groups of rats were treated with 100 mg/kg bodyweight of methanol extract, hexane, ethyl-acetate and butanol fractions orally for four days. Another group received the standard drug - Dexamethasone and control rats were given distilled water only. Some biochemical changes were evaluated and the active ingredients were identified using Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS) followed by molecular docking against interleukin-1-beta converting enzyme (Caspase-1), beta-2 adrenergic receptor (ADRB2), cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) and tumour necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α). Exposure of rat colon to acetic acid significantly altered (p < 0.05) serum levels of tumour necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), interleukin - 6 (IL-6), nitric oxide (NO), lipid peroxidation product (malondialdehyde or MDA), reduced glutathione (GSH); and activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT). These alterations were however restored in the rats treated with P. nivosus leaf with the ethyl-acetate fraction displaying the highest ameliorative activity. GC-MS analysis of the ethyl acetate fraction revealed the presence of 40 compounds which when subjected to molecular docking demonstrated varying degrees of binding affinities for the protein targets. Ethyl iso-allocholate demonstrated the highest binding affinity for caspase-1, cholest-22-ene-21-ol, 3,5-dehydro-6- methoxy-, pivalate for ADRB2 and TNF-α; and alpha-cadinol for COX-2. The anti-inflammatory potential of Phyllanthus nivosus leaf as a natural remedy and as a source of new drugs against ulcerative colitis is validated.

D-Limonene mitigate myocardial injury in rats through MAPK/ERK/NF-κB pathway inhibition

Cardiovascular diseases are the primary reason of mortality, among which myocardial infarction (MI) is the most dominant and prevalent. This study was considered to examine D-Limonene protective action against isoproterenol (ISO) induced MI. Wister male rats were dispersed into four groups. Normal and D-Limonene control group in which rats administered saline or D-Limonene. ISO control animals were administered saline for 21 days then challenged with ISO (85 mg/kg, subcutaneously) on 20th and 21st day for MI induction. D-Limonene pretreated group in which animals were pretreated with D-Limonene 50 mg/kg orally for 21 days then administered ISO on 20th and 21st day. MI prompted variations were assessed by myocardial infarction area determination, blood pressure (BP) alterations, cardiac injury biomarkers and inflammatory mediators measurements. For more depth investigation, both the apoptotic status was evaluated via measuring mRNA expression of Bcl-2 and Bax as well as mitogen-activated protein kinase-extracellular signal-regulated kinase (MAPK-ERK) signal transduction were investigated via Western blotting. MI group revealed significant infarcted area, blood pressure alterations, myocardial injury enzymes intensification together with inflammatory cytokines amplification. MI was associated with activation of MAPK-ERK signal pathway and apoptotic status within the myocardium. On the other hand, pretreated with D-Limonene demonstrated deterred infracted area, reduced myocardial enzymes, improved BP indices, lessened inflammatory levels. Furthermore, D-Limonene pretreatment caused a decline in MAPK proteins pathway and Bax relative mRNA expression, while intensifying Bcl-2 mRNA expression promoting that D-Limonene may constrain MI induced myocardial apoptosis. D-Limonene mitigated MI injury through MAPK/NF-κB pathway inhibition and anti-apoptotic effect.

Chemerin: A Potential Regulator of Inflammation and Metabolism for Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease and Pulmonary Rehabilitation

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) features chronic inflammatory reactions of both intra- and extrapulmonary nature. Moreover, COPD is associated with abnormal glucose and lipid metabolism in patients, which influences the prognosis and chronicity of this disease. Abnormal glucose and lipid metabolism are also closely related to inflammation processes. Further insights into the interactions of inflammation and glucose and lipid metabolism might therefore inspire novel therapeutic interventions to promote lung rehabilitation. Chemerin, as a recently discovered adipokine, has been shown to play a role in inflammatory response and glucose and lipid metabolism in many diseases (including COPD). Chemerin recruits inflammatory cells to sites of inflammation during the early stages of COPD, leading to endothelial barrier dysfunction, early vascular remodeling, and angiogenesis. Moreover, it supports the recruitment of antigen-presenting cells that guide immune cells as part of the body's inflammatory responses. Chemerin also regulates metabolism via activation of its cognate receptors. Glucose homeostasis is affected via effects on insulin secretion and sensitivity, and lipid metabolism is changed by increased transformation of preadipocytes to mature adipocytes through chemerin-binding receptors. Controlling chemerin signaling may be a promising approach to improve various aspects of COPD-related dysfunction. Importantly, several studies indicate that chemerin expression in vivo is influenced by exercise. Although available evidence is still limited, therapeutic alterations of chemerin activity may be a promising target of therapeutic approaches aimed at the rehabilitation of COPD patients based on exercises. In conclusion, chemerin plays an essential role in COPD, especially in the inflammatory responses and metabolism, and has a potential to become a target for, and a biomarker of, curative mechanisms underlying exercise-mediated lung rehabilitation.

Terpenoids, Cannabimimetic Ligands, beyond the Cannabis Plant

Medicinal use of Cannabis sativa L. has an extensive history and it was essential in the discovery of phytocannabinoids, including the Cannabis major psychoactive compound—Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ9-THC)—as well as the G-protein-coupled cannabinoid receptors (CBR), named cannabinoid receptor type-1 (CB1R) and cannabinoid receptor type-2 (CB2R), both part of the now known endocannabinoid system (ECS). Cannabinoids is a vast term that defines several compounds that have been characterized in three categories: (i) endogenous, (ii) synthetic, and (iii) phytocannabinoids, and are able to modulate the CBR and ECS. Particularly, phytocannabinoids are natural terpenoids or phenolic compounds derived from Cannabis sativa. However, these terpenoids and phenolic compounds can also be derived from other plants (non-cannabinoids) and still induce cannabinoid-like properties. Cannabimimetic ligands, beyond the Cannabis plant, can act as CBR agonists or antagonists, or ECS enzyme inhibitors, besides being able of playing a role in immune-mediated inflammatory and infectious diseases, neuroinflammatory, neurological, and neurodegenerative diseases, as well as in cancer, and autoimmunity by itself. In this review, we summarize and critically highlight past, present, and future progress on the understanding of the role of cannabinoid-like molecules, mainly terpenes, as prospective therapeutics for different pathological conditions.

Chemopreventive and Therapeutic Efficacy of Cinnamomum zeylanicum L. Bark in Experimental Breast Carcinoma: Mechanistic In Vivo and In Vitro Analyses

Comprehensive oncology research suggests an important role of phytochemicals or whole plant foods in the modulation of signaling pathways associated with anticancer action. The goal of this study is to assess the anticancer activities of Cinnamomum zeylanicum L. using rat, mouse, and cell line breast carcinoma models. C. zeylanicum (as bark powder) was administered in the diet at two concentrations of 0.1% (w/w) and 1% (w/w) during the whole experiment in chemically induced rat mammary carcinomas and a syngeneic 4T1 mouse model. After autopsy, histopathological and molecular evaluations of mammary gland tumors in rodents were carried out. Moreover, in vitro analyses using MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231 cells were performed. The dominant metabolites present in the tested C. zeylanicum essential oil (with relative content over 1%) were cinnamaldehyde, cinnamaldehyde dimethyl acetal, cinnamyl acetate, eugenol, linalool, eucalyptol, limonene, o-cymol, and α-terpineol. The natural mixture of mentioned molecules demonstrated significant anticancer effects in our study. In the mouse model, C. zeylanicum at a higher dose (1%) significantly decreased tumor volume by 44% when compared to controls. In addition, treated tumors showed a significant dose-dependent decrease in mitotic activity index by 29% (0.1%) and 45.5% (1%) in comparison with the control group. In rats, C. zeylanicum in both doses significantly reduced the tumor incidence by 15.5% and non-significantly suppressed tumor frequency by more than 30% when compared to controls. An evaluation of the mechanism of anticancer action using valid oncological markers showed several positive changes after treatment with C. zeylanicum. Histopathological analysis of treated rat tumor specimens showed a significant decrease in the ratio of high-/low-grade carcinomas compared to controls. In treated rat carcinomas, we found caspase-3 and Bax expression increase. On the other hand, we observed a decrease in Bcl-2, Ki67, VEGF, and CD24 expressions and MDA levels. Assessment of epigenetic changes in rat tumor cells in vivo showed a significant decrease in lysine methylation status of H3K4m3 and H3K9m3 in the high-dose treated group, a dose-dependent increase in H4K16ac levels (H4K20m3 was not changed), down-regulations of miR21 and miR155 in low-dose cinnamon groups (miR22 and miR34a were not modulated), and significant reduction of the methylation status of two out of five gene promoters-ATM and TIMP3 (PITX2, RASSF1, PTEN promoters were not changed). In vitro study confirmed results of animal studies, in that the essential oil of C. zeylanicum displayed significant anticancer efficacy in MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231 cells (using MTS, BrdU, cell cycle, annexin V/PI, caspase-3/7, Bcl-2, PARP, and mitochondrial membrane potential analyses). As a conclusion, C. zeylanicum L. showed chemopreventive and therapeutic activities in animal breast carcinoma models that were also significantly confirmed by mechanistic evaluations in vitro and in vivo.

Citrus limon (Lemon) Phenomenon-A Review of the Chemistry, Pharmacological Properties, Applications in the Modern Pharmaceutical, Food, and Cosmetics Industries, and Biotechnological Studies

This review presents important botanical, chemical and pharmacological characteristics of Citrus limon (lemon)—a species with valuable pharmaceutical, cosmetic and culinary (healthy food) properties. A short description of the genus Citrus is followed by information on the chemical composition, metabolomic studies and biological activities of the main raw materials obtained from C. limon (fruit extract, juice, essential oil). The valuable biological activity of C. limon is determined by its high content of phenolic compounds, mainly flavonoids (e.g., diosmin, hesperidin, limocitrin) and phenolic acids (e.g., ferulic, synapic, p-hydroxybenzoic acids). The essential oil is rich in bioactive monoterpenoids such as D-limonene, β-pinene, γ-terpinene. Recently scientifically proven therapeutic activities of C. limon include anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, anticancer and antiparasitic activities. The review pays particular attention, with references to published scientific research, to the use of C. limon in the food industry and cosmetology. It also addresses the safety of use and potential phototoxicity of the raw materials. Lastly, the review emphasizes the significance of biotechnological studies on C. limon.

Medicinal Properties of Cannabinoids, Terpenes, and Flavonoids in Cannabis, and Benefits in Migraine, Headache, and Pain: An Update on Current Evidence and Cannabis Science

BACKGROUND

Comprehensive literature reviews of historical perspectives and evidence supporting cannabis/cannabinoids in the treatment of pain, including migraine and headache, with associated neurobiological mechanisms of pain modulation have been well described. Most of the existing literature reports on the cannabinoids Δ⁹ -tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD), or cannabis in general. There are many cannabis strains that vary widely in the composition of cannabinoids, terpenes, flavonoids, and other compounds. These components work synergistically to produce wide variations in benefits, side effects, and strain characteristics. Knowledge of the individual medicinal properties of the cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids is necessary to cross-breed strains to obtain optimal standardized synergistic compositions. This will enable targeting individual symptoms and/or diseases, including migraine, headache, and pain.

OBJECTIVE

Review the medical literature for the use of cannabis/cannabinoids in the treatment of migraine, headache, facial pain, and other chronic pain syndromes, and for supporting evidence of a potential role in combatting the opioid epidemic. Review the medical literature involving major and minor cannabinoids, primary and secondary terpenes, and flavonoids that underlie the synergistic entourage effects of cannabis. Summarize the individual medicinal benefits of these substances, including analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties.

CONCLUSION

There is accumulating evidence for various therapeutic benefits of cannabis/cannabinoids, especially in the treatment of pain, which may also apply to the treatment of migraine and headache. There is also supporting evidence that cannabis may assist in opioid detoxification and weaning, thus making it a potential weapon in battling the opioid epidemic. Cannabis science is a rapidly evolving medical sector and industry with increasingly regulated production standards. Further research is anticipated to optimize breeding of strain-specific synergistic ratios of cannabinoids, terpenes, and other phytochemicals for predictable user effects, characteristics, and improved symptom and disease-targeted therapies.

Effects of orange essential oil on intestinal microflora in mice

BACKGROUND

The intestinal microbiota has a wide variety of functions in the host. A positive effect of plant extract on intestinal microbiota in animals has been reported. However, the effect of orange essential oil and its components limonene, linalool and citral on intestinal microflora in mice has seldom been reported. The effects of intragastric administration of orange essential oil and limonene, linalool and citral on intestinal microflora and biochemical indexes in mice were studied.

RESULTS

The effect of essential oil, linalool and citral on immune organ index (spleen and thymus index), IgM and IL-2 was not significant (P > 0.05). A significant increase (P < 0.05) of H⁺ K⁺ -ATPase activity, IgA, IgG, and IL-2 in the limonene group was observed when compared with the control group. Orange essential oil, limonene, linalool and citral could significantly reduce the content of short-chain fatty acids in the cecum and colon of mice. Principal coordinates analysis showed that intestinal bacterial structure of limonene group cecum and colon was apparently separated from other groups. The relative abundance of Lactobacillus in cecum and colon in essential oil, limonene, linalool and citral groups was higher than that in the control group.

CONCLUSIONS

Orange essential oil and limonene, linalool and citral could affect the intestinal microflora of mice, and enhance the relative abundance of Lactobacillus. The intestinal bacterial structure of cecum and colon in the limonene group was quite different from other groups. This indicated a more obvious effect of limonene on intestinal bacteria, also resulting in significant changes in blood immune index and short-chain fatty acids in mice. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry.

Natural green-peel orange essential oil enhanced the deposition, absorption and permeation of prochloraz in cucumber

Pesticides have long been used in agricultural production and will continue to be used long into the future. Enhancing their efficient use in agricultural production is an effective method to avoid their loss to non-target areas, such as soil, water and air. Here natural green-peel orange essential oil (GOEO) was used as a spray adjuvant to improve the efficient use of pesticides. A comparative study between a conventional formulation and a conventional formulation with GOEO was conducted. Conventional formulations of prochloraz were chosen as control groups. It was obvious that the concentrations of prochloraz and its metabolite in cucumber leaves treated by conventional formulations with GOEO were much higher than those treated without GOEO. The data also showed, for both emulsifiable concentrate (EC) and suspension concentrate (SC), that the spreading and penetration performance were improved when GOEO was used as a spray adjuvant, but with SC the impact was more significant. GOEO improved the deposition, absorption and degradation performance of prochloraz on cucumber leaves. It was more applicable to those pesticide formulations without a good wetting and spreading effect, such as SC. As a plant source extract, GOEO is much safer for crops and more friendly to the environment than other synthetic adjuvants. The application of GOEO as a spray adjuvant has great potential to increase the pesticide utilization rate.

Natural green-peel orange essential oil was used as a spray adjuvant to improve the efficient use of pesticides.

Medicinal properties of terpenes found in Cannabis sativa and Humulus lupulus

Cannabaceae plants Cannabis sativa L. and Humulus lupulus L. are rich in terpenes - both are typically comprised of terpenes as up to 3-5% of the dry-mass of the female inflorescence. Terpenes of cannabis and hops are typically simple mono- and sesquiterpenes derived from two and three isoprene units, respectively. Some terpenes are relatively well known for their potential in biomedicine and have been used in traditional medicine for centuries, while others are yet to be studied in detail. The current, comprehensive review presents terpenes found in cannabis and hops. Terpenes' medicinal properties are supported by numerous in vitro, animal and clinical trials and show anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, analgesic, anticonvulsive, antidepressant, anxiolytic, anticancer, antitumor, neuroprotective, anti-mutagenic, anti-allergic, antibiotic and anti-diabetic attributes, among others. Because of the very low toxicity, these terpenes are already widely used as food additives and in cosmetic products. Thus, they have been proven safe and well-tolerated.

Patterns of medicinal cannabis use, strain analysis, and substitution effect among patients with migraine, headache, arthritis, and chronic pain in a medicinal cannabis cohort

BACKGROUND

Medicinal cannabis registries typically report pain as the most common reason for use. It would be clinically useful to identify patterns of cannabis treatment in migraine and headache, as compared to arthritis and chronic pain, and to analyze preferred cannabis strains, biochemical profiles, and prescription medication substitutions with cannabis.

METHODS

Via electronic survey in medicinal cannabis patients with headache, arthritis, and chronic pain, demographics and patterns of cannabis use including methods, frequency, quantity, preferred strains, cannabinoid and terpene profiles, and prescription substitutions were recorded. Cannabis use for migraine among headache patients was assessed via the ID Migraine™ questionnaire, a validated screen used to predict the probability of migraine.

RESULTS

Of 2032 patients, 21 illnesses were treated with cannabis. Pain syndromes accounted for 42.4% (n = 861) overall; chronic pain 29.4% (n = 598;), arthritis 9.3% (n = 188), and headache 3.7% (n = 75;). Across all 21 illnesses, headache was a symptom treated with cannabis in 24.9% (n = 505). These patients were given the ID Migraine™ questionnaire, with 68% (n = 343) giving 3 "Yes" responses, 20% (n = 102) giving 2 "Yes" responses (97% and 93% probability of migraine, respectively). Therefore, 88% (n = 445) of headache patients were treating probable migraine with cannabis. Hybrid strains were most preferred across all pain subtypes, with "OG Shark" the most preferred strain in the ID Migraine™ and headache groups. Many pain patients substituted prescription medications with cannabis (41.2-59.5%), most commonly opiates/opioids (40.5-72.8%). Prescription substitution in headache patients included opiates/opioids (43.4%), anti-depressant/anti-anxiety (39%), NSAIDs (21%), triptans (8.1%), anti-convulsants (7.7%), muscle relaxers (7%), ergots (0.4%).

CONCLUSIONS

Chronic pain was the most common reason for cannabis use, consistent with most registries. The majority of headache patients treating with cannabis were positive for migraine. Hybrid strains were preferred in ID Migraine™, headache, and most pain groups, with "OG Shark", a high THC (Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol)/THCA (tetrahydrocannabinolic acid), low CBD (cannabidiol)/CBDA (cannabidiolic acid), strain with predominant terpenes β-caryophyllene and β-myrcene, most preferred in the headache and ID Migraine™ groups. This could reflect the potent analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and anti-emetic properties of THC, with anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties of β-caryophyllene and β-myrcene. Opiates/opioids were most commonly substituted with cannabis. Prospective studies are needed, but results may provide early insight into optimizing crossbred cannabis strains, synergistic biochemical profiles, dosing, and patterns of use in the treatment of headache, migraine, and chronic pain syndromes.

Chemical variability in the essential oil of leaves of Araçá (Psidium guineense Sw.), with occurrence in the Amazon

BACKGROUND

Psidium guineense, known as Araçá, is a Brazilian botanical resource with commercial application perspectives, based on the functional elements of its fruits and due to the use of its leaves as an anti-inflammatory and antibacterial agent. The essential oils of leaves of twelve specimens of Araçá were analyzed by GC and GC-MS to identify their volatile constituents and associate them with the biological activities reputed to the plant.

RESULTS

In a total of 157 identified compounds, limonene, α-pinene, β-caryophyllene, epi-β-bisabolol, caryophyllene oxide, β-bisabolene, α-copaene, myrcene, muurola-4,10(14)-dien-1-β-ol, β-bisabolol, and ar-curcumene were the primary components in descending order up to 5%. Hierarchical Cluster Analysis (HCA) and Principal Component Analysis (PCA) displayed three different groups with the following chemical types: limonene/α-pinene, β-bisabolene/epi-β-bisabolol, and β-caryophyllene/caryophyllene oxide. With the previous description of another chemical type rich in spathulenol, it is now understood that at least four different chemotypes for P. guineense should occur.

CONCLUSIONS

In addition to the use of the Araçá fruits, which are rich in minerals and functional elements, it should be borne in mind that the knowledge of the chemical composition of the essential oils of leaves of their different chemical types may contribute to the selection of varieties with more significant biological activity.