1,8-cineole (eucalyptol) ameliorates cerulein-induced acute pancreatitis via modulation of cytokines, oxidative stress and NF-κB activity in mice. Life Sci. 2013;92:1195-1201. [PMID: 23702424 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2013.05.009]

Natural Compounds for the Treatment of Acute Pancreatitis: Novel Anti-Inflammatory Therapies

Acute pancreatitis remains a serious public health problem, and the burden of acute pancreatitis is increasing. With significant morbidity and serious complications, appropriate and effective therapies are critical. Great progress has been made in understanding the pathophysiology of acute pancreatitis over the past two decades. However, specific drugs targeting key molecules and pathways involved in acute pancreatitis still require further study. Natural compounds extracted from plants have a variety of biological activities and can inhibit inflammation and oxidative stress in acute pancreatitis by blocking several signaling pathways, such as the nuclear factor kappa-B and mitogen-activated protein kinase pathways. In this article, we review the therapeutic effects of various types of phytochemicals on acute pancreatitis and discuss the mechanism of action of these natural compounds in acute pancreatitis, aiming to provide clearer insights into the treatment of acute pancreatitis.

Biological Properties of Mentha viridis L. Essential Oil and Its Main Monoterpene Constituents

This research aimed to evaluate the antidiabetic, dermatoprotective, and antibacterial activities of Mentha viridis L. essential oil (MVEO) collected in the province of Ouezzane (Northwest Morocco). Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) analysis revealed that the main constituents of MVEO were carvone (37.26 %), 1,8-cineole (11.82 %), limonene (5.27 %), α-terpineol (4.16 %), and β-caryophyllene (4.04 %). MVEO showed strong inhibitory effects on α-amylase and α-glucosidase activities, exceeding those of acarbose, but weak anti-elastase activity. The main compounds, β-caryophyllene (IC50=79.91±2.24 and 62.08±2.78 μg/mL) and limonene (IC50=90.73±3.47 and 68.98±1, 60 μg/mL), demonstrated the strongest inhibitory effects on both digestive enzymes (α-glucosidase and α-amylase, respectively). In silico investigations, using molecular docking, also showed the inhibitory potential of these bioactive compounds against the enzymes tested. In conclusion, MVEO, due to its main components such as limonene, 1,8-cineole, β-caryophyllene, carvone, and α-terpineol, shows promising prospects for drug discovery and natural therapeutic applications.

Bisphenol AF Caused Reproductive Toxicity in Rats and Cineole Co-Treatment Exhibited Protective Effect

Bisphenol AF (BPAF) is increasingly used and now found in products intended for human consumption. The protective effect of 1,8-cineole (CIN) against BPAF-induced reproductive toxicity was investigated. Four groups were created, with each group consisting of eight rats: control, BPAF (200 mg/kg), CIN (200 mg/kg), and BPAF + CIN groups. The results demonstrated that the BPAF group exhibited a decline in testosterone levels and a decrease in sperm parameters compared with the control. Additionally, higher levels of MDA were observed, along with lower levels of GSH and GPx activity. CAT activity also decreased slightly. Tnf-α, Nf-κB levels were significantly higher, and caspase-3 expression was elevated, while PCNA expression decreased. BPAF significantly increased tissue degeneration compared with the control. However, the BPAF + CIN group showed statistically significant improvements in sperm parameters, except for concentration. They also exhibited an increase in testosterone levels and an improvement in MDA and GSH levels compared with the BPAF group. However, GPx activity partially enhanced. Tnf-α and Nf-κB levels were significantly reduced, and caspase-3 levels declined while PCNA and Bcl-2 levels increased. The Johnsen Testicular Biopsy score showed a substantial increase. Overall, these results suggest that CIN co-treatment in rats enhanced reproductive health and exhibited antioxidant, antiapoptotic, and anti-inflammatory properties against BPAF-induced testicular damage.

Promising effects of 1,8 Cineole to control Giardia lamblia infection: Targeting the inflammation, oxidative stress, and infectivity

Reportedly, synthetic drugs such as metronidazole, furazolidone, tinidazole, and quinacrine are used for the treatment of giardiasis but are associated with adverse effects. In this study, we aimed to investigate the in vitro and in vivo effects of eucalyptol (ECT, 1,8 cineole) alone and in combination with metronidazole (MNZ) on Giardia lamblia. The effects of ECT on cell viability, plasma membrane permeability, and gene expression levels of adenylate cyclase (AK) and extracellular signal kinases 1 and 2 (ERK1 and ERK2) in trophozoites of G. lamblia were assessed. In vivo, the effects of ECT alone and in combination with MNZ were assessed on mice infected with G. lamblia. In addition, the gene expression of inflammatory genes (e.g., TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-10) and antioxidant genes (catalase (CAT), superoxide dismutase 1 (SOD1), glutathione peroxidase 2 (GPX2)) was determined by real-time PCR. The IC50 values of ECT, MNZ, and ECT+MNZ on trophozoites were 30.2 µg/mL, 21.6 µg/mL, and 8.5 µg/mL, respectively. The estimated Fractional inhibitory concentration index (FICI) values for ECT and MNZ were 0.28 and 0.39, respectively. The application of ECT on G. lamblia trophozoites resulted in a dose-dependent increase in plasma membrane permeability, particularly at concentrations of ½ IC50 and IC50 (P < 0.05). The treatment of infected mice with various doses of ECT, mainly in combination with MNZ for 7 days, resulted in a significant decrease (P < 0.001) in the average number and viability of cysts. ECT, especially when combined with MNZ, caused a significant (P < 0.001) reduction in the expression of TNF-α and IL-6 genes, and an increase (P < 0.05) in the expression of IL-10 genes. ECT alone and mainly in combination with MNZ leads to a significant (P < 0.001) increase in the gene expression of CAT, SOD, and GPX genes. These findings demonstrate that the use of ECT in these doses, even for 14 days, does not have any toxic effects on the function of vital liver and kidney tissues. The study findings confirmed the promising effects of ECT against G. lamblia infection both in vitro and in vivo. Considering the possible mechanisms, ECT increases plasma membrane permeability and reduces the expression levels of infectivity-related genes. In addition, ECT suppresses inflammation and oxidative stress, controlling giardiasis in mice. More studies are needed to clarify these findings.

Therapeutic Potential of Essential Oils Against Ulcerative Colitis: A Review

Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a chronic non-sp ecific inflammatory disease of the colorectal mucosa. Researchers have associated UC onset with familial genetics, lifestyle behavior, inflammatory immune factors, intestinal microbiota, and the integrity of the intestinal mucosal barrier. The primary therapeutic interventions for UC consist of pharmacological management to control inflammation and promote mucosal healing and surgical interventions. The available drugs effectively control and decelerate the progression of UC in most patients; nonetheless, their long-term administration can exert adverse effects and influence the therapeutic effect. Plant essential oils (EOs) refer to a group of hydrophobic aromatic volatile substances. EOs have garnered considerable attention in both domestic and international research because of their anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and antioxidant properties. They include peppermint, peppercorns, rosemary, and lavender, among others. Researchers have investigated the role of EOs in medicine and have elucidated their potential to mitigate the detrimental effects of UC through their anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antidepressant, and anti-insomnia properties as well as their ability to regulate the intestinal flora. Furthermore, EOs exert minimal toxic adverse effects, further enhancing their appeal for therapeutic applications. However, these speculations are based on theoretical experiments, thereby warranting more clinical studies to confirm their effectiveness and safety. In this article, we aim to provide an overview of the advancements in utilizing natural medicine EOs for UC prevention and treatment. We will explore the potential pathogenesis of UC and examine the role of EOs therapy in basic research, quality stability, and management specification of inadequate EOs for UC treatment. We intend to offer novel insights into the use of EOs in UC prevention and management.

The Anticancer Activities of Natural Terpenoids That Inhibit Both Melanoma and Non-Melanoma Skin Cancers

The prevalence of two major types of skin cancer, melanoma and non-melanoma skin cancer, has been increasing worldwide. Skin cancer incidence is estimated to rise continuously over the next 20 years due to ozone depletion and an increased life expectancy. Chemotherapeutic agents could affect healthy cells, and thus may be toxic to them and cause numerous side effects or drug resistance. Phytochemicals that are naturally occurring in fruits, plants, and herbs are known to possess various bioactive properties, including anticancer properties. Although the effects of phytochemicals are relatively milder than chemotherapeutic agents, the long-term intake of phytochemicals may be effective and safe in preventing tumor development in humans. Diverse phytochemicals have shown anti-tumorigenic activities for either melanoma or non-melanoma skin cancer. In this review, we focused on summarizing recent research findings of the natural and dietary terpenoids (eucalyptol, eugenol, geraniol, linalool, and ursolic acid) that have anticancer activities for both melanoma and non-melanoma skin cancers. These terpenoids may be helpful to protect skin collectively to prevent tumorigenesis of both melanoma and nonmelanoma skin cancers.

Identification of CD8 T-cell dysfunction associated with symptoms in myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS) and Long COVID and treatment with a nebulized antioxidant/anti-pathogen agent in a retrospective case series

Background

Patients with post-acute sequelae of Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection (PASC, i.e., Long COVID) have a symptom complex highly analogous to many features of myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS), suggesting they may share some aspects of pathogenesis in these similar disorders. ME/CFS is a complex disease affecting numerous organ systems and biological processes and is often preceded by an infection-like episode. It is postulated that the chronic manifestations of illness may result from an altered host response to infection or inability to resolve inflammation, as is being reported in Long COVID. The immunopathogenesis of both disorders is still poorly understood. Here, we show data that suggest Long COVID and ME/CFS may be due to an aberrant response to an immunological trigger-like infection, resulting in a dysregulated immune system with CD8 T-cell dysfunction reminiscent of some aspects of T-cell clonal exhaustion, a phenomenon associated with oxidative stress. As there is an urgent need for diagnostic tools and treatment strategies for these two related disabling disorders, here, in a retrospective case series, we have also identified a potential nebulized antioxidant/anti-pathogen treatment that has evidence of a good safety profile. This nebulized agent is comprised of five ingredients previously reported individually to relieve oxidative stress, attenuate NF-κB signaling, and/or to act directly to inhibit pathogens, including viruses. Administration of this treatment by nebulizer results in rapid access of small doses of well-studied antioxidants and agents with anti-pathogen potential to the lungs; components of this nebulized agent are also likely to be distributed systemically, with potential to enter the central nervous system.

Methods

and Findings: We conducted an analysis of CD8 T-cell function and severity of symptoms by self-report questionnaires in ME/CFS, Long COVID and healthy controls. We developed a CD8 T-cell functional assay, assessing CD8 T-cell dysfunction by intracellular cytokine staining (ICS) in a group of ME/CFS (n = 12) and Long COVID patients (n = 8), comparing to healthy controls (HC) with similar age and sex (n = 10). Magnet-enriched fresh CD8 T-cells in both patient groups had a significantly diminished capacity to produce both cytokines, IFNγ or TNFα, after PMA stimulation when compared to HC. The symptom severity questionnaire showed similar symptom profiles for the two disorders. Fortuitously, through a retrospective case series, we were able to examine the ICS and questionnaire data of 4 ME/CFS and 4 Long COVID patients in conjunction with their treatment (3-15 months). In parallel with the treatment pursued electively by participants in this retrospective case series, there was an increase in CD8 T-cell IFNγ and TNFα production and a decrease in overall self-reported symptom severity score by 54%. No serious treatment-associated side effects or laboratory anomalies were noted in these patients.

Conclusions

Here, in this small study, we present two observations that appear potentially fundamental to the pathogenesis and treatment of Long COVID and ME/CFS. The first is that both disorders appear to be characterized by dysfunctional CD8 T-cells with severe deficiencies in their abilities to produce IFNγ and TNFα. The second is that in a small retrospective Long COVID and ME/CFS case series, this immune dysfunction and patient health improved in parallel with treatment with an immunomodulatory, antioxidant pharmacological treatment with anticipated anti-pathogen activity. This work provides evidence of the potential utility of a biomarker, CD8 T-cell dysfunction, and suggests the potential for benefit from a new nebulized antioxidant/anti-pathogen treatment. These immune biomarker data may help build capacity for improved diagnosis and tracking of treatment outcomes during clinical trials for both Long COVID and ME/CFS while providing clues to new treatment avenues that suggest potential efficacy for both conditions.

1,8-cineole (eucalyptol): A versatile phytochemical with therapeutic applications across multiple diseases

1,8-cineole (Eucalyptol), a naturally occurring compound derived from botanical sources such as eucalyptus, rosemary, and camphor laurel, has a long history of use in traditional medicine and exhibits an array of biological properties, including anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antimicrobial, bronchodilatory, analgesic, and pro-apoptotic effects. Recent evidence has also indicated its potential role in managing conditions such as Alzheimer's disease, neuropathic pain, and cancer. This review spotlights the health advantages of 1,8-cineole, as demonstrated in clinical trials involving patients with respiratory disorders, including chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, asthma, bronchitis, and rhinosinusitis. In addition, we shed light on potential therapeutic applications of 1,8-cineole in various conditions, such as depression, epilepsy, peptic ulcer disease, diarrhea, cardiac-related heart diseases, and diabetes mellitus. A comprehensive understanding of 1,8-cineole's pharmacodynamics and safety aspects as well as developing effective formulations, might help to leverage its therapeutic value. This thorough review sets the stage for future research on diverse health benefits and potential uses of 1,8-cineole in tackling complex medical conditions.

1,8-Cineole Alleviates OGD/R-Induced Oxidative Damage and Restores Mitochondrial Function by Promoting the Nrf2 Pathway

This study examined the effects of 1,8-cineole on reducing oxidative stress injury and restoring mitochondrial function in oxygen-glucose deprivation and reoxygenation (OGD/R) HT22 cells via the nuclear factor erythrocyte 2 related factor 2 (Nrf2) pathway. The optimal concentration of 1,8-cineole to reduce OGD/R injury was screened via cell morphology, cell survival rate, and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) leakage rate. Oxidative damage was observed by measuring superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GSH-PX), catalase (CAT) activities, and reactive oxygen species (ROS), glutathione (GSH), protein carbonyl, malondialdehyde (MDA), lipid peroxidation (LPO) content, and 8-hydroxy-2 deoxyguanosine (8-OHDG) expression. Mitochondrial function was observed by mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP) and ATPase activity. Nrf2 pathways were observed by the expression levels of total Nrf2, nucleus Nrf2, reduced nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NAD(P)H): quinone oxidoreductase 1 (NQO1) and heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1), the mRNA levels of HO-1 and NQO1. Among different concentrations of 1,8-cineole for promoting HT22 cell proliferation and attenuated OGD/R injury, 10 µmol/L 1,8-cineole was the best. After 1,8-cineole treatment, SOD, GSH-PX, and CAT activities and GSH content increased, while ROS, MDA, LPO, protein carbonyl, and 8-OHDG levels decreased. 1,8-Cineole could restore MMP and increase mitochondrial enzyme activity. It could also increase the total Nrf2, nucleus Nrf2, NQO1, and HO-1, and Nrf2 inhibitor brusatol reduced the effect of 1,8-cineole. Immunofluorescence assay showed that 1,8-cineole could facilitate the transfer of Nrf2 into the nucleus. 1,8-cineole increased the mRNA levels of NQO1 and HO-1. The above results showed that 1,8-cineole could alleviate OGD/R-induced oxidative damage and restores mitochondrial function by activating the Nrf2 signal pathway.

Immunomodulatory effects and mechanisms of the extracts and secondary compounds of Zingiber and Alpinia species: a review

Zingiber and Alpinia species (family: Zingiberaceae) are popularly used in food as spices and flavoring agents and in ethnomedicine to heal numerous diseases, including immune-related disorders. However, their ethnomedicinal uses have not been sufficiently supported by scientific investigations. Numerous studies on the modulating effects of plants and their bioactive compounds on the different steps of the immune system have been documented. This review aimed to highlight up-to-date research findings and critically analyze the modulatory effects and mechanisms of the extracts and secondary compounds of several Zingiber and Alpinia species, namely, Zingiber officinale Roscoe, Z. cassumunar Roxb., Z. zerumbet (L.) Roscoe ex Sm., Alpinia galanga Linn., A. conchigera Griff, A. katsumadai Hayata, A. oxyphylla Miq., A. officinarum Hance, A. zerumbet (Pers.) Burtt. et Smith, and A. purpurata (Viell.) K. Schum. on the immune system, particularly via the inflammation-related signaling pathways. The immunomodulating activities of the crude extracts of the plants have been reported, but the constituents contributing to the activities have mostly not been identified. Among the extracts, Z. officinale extracts were the most investigated for their in vitro, in vivo, and clinical effects on the immune system. Among the bioactive metabolites, 6-, 8-, and 10-gingerols, 6-shogaol, and zerumbone from Zingiber species and cardamomin, 1'-acetoxychavicol acetate, yakuchinone, rutin, 1,8-cineole, and lectin from Alpinia species have demonstrated strong immunomodulating effects. More experimental studies using cell and animal models of immune-related disorders are necessary to further understand the underlying mechanisms, together with elaborate preclinical pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics, bioavailability, and toxicity studies. Many of these extracts and secondary metabolites are potential candidates for clinical development in immunomodulating agents or functional foods to prevent and treat chronic inflammatory disorders.

Variation in the Chemical Composition of Endemic Specimens of Hedychium coronarium J. Koenig from the Amazon and In Silico Investigation of the ADME/Tox Properties of the Major Compounds

Four species of the genus Hedychium can be found in Brazil. Hedychium coronarium is a species endemic to India and Brazil. In this paper, we collected six specimens of H. coronarium for evaluation of their volatile chemical profiles. For this, the essential oils of these specimens were extracted using hydrodistillation from plant samples collected in the state of Pará, Brazil, belonging to the Amazon region in the north of the country. Substance compounds were identified with GC/MS. The most abundant constituent identified in the rhizome and root oils was 1,8-cineole (rhizome: 35.0-66.1%; root: 19.6-20.8%). Leaf blade oil was rich in β-pinene (31.6%) and (E)-caryophyllene (31.6%). The results from this paper allow for greater knowledge about the volatile chemical profile of H. coronarium specimens, in addition to disseminating knowledge about the volatile compounds present in plant species in the Amazon region.

Specialized metabolites from plants as a source of new multi-target antiviral drugs: a systematic review

Viral infections have always been the main global health challenge, as several potentially lethal viruses, including the hepatitis virus, herpes virus, and influenza virus, have affected human health for decades. Unfortunately, most licensed antiviral drugs are characterized by many adverse reactions and, in the long-term therapy, also develop viral resistance; for these reasons, researchers have focused their attention on investigating potential antiviral molecules from plants. Natural resources indeed offer a variety of specialized therapeutic metabolites that have been demonstrated to inhibit viral entry into the host cells and replication through the regulation of viral absorption, cell receptor binding, and competition for the activation of intracellular signaling pathways. Many active phytochemicals, including flavonoids, lignans, terpenoids, coumarins, saponins, alkaloids, etc., have been identified as potential candidates for preventing and treating viral infections. Using a systematic approach, this review summarises the knowledge obtained to date on the in vivo antiviral activity of specialized metabolites extracted from plant matrices by focusing on their mechanism of action.

Advances in the Phytochemical Characterisation and Bioactivities of Salvia aurea L. Essential Oil

The Salvia L. genus (Lamiaceae) is largely used in the pharmaceutical and food industry. Several species of biological relevance are extensively employed in traditional medicine, including Salvia aurea L. (syn. S. africana-lutea L.), which is used as a traditional skin disinfectant and in wounds as a healing remedy; nevertheless, these properties have not been validated yet. The aim of the present study is to characterise S. aurea essential oil (EO), unveiling its chemical composition and validating its biological properties. The EO was obtained by hydrodistillation and subsequently analysed by GC-FID and GC-MS. Different biological activities were assessed: the antifungal effect on dermatophytes and yeasts and the anti-inflammatory potential by evaluating nitric oxide (NO) production and COX-2 and iNOS protein levels. Wound-healing properties were assessed using the scratch-healing test, and the anti-aging capacity was estimated through the senescence-associated beta-galactosidase activity. S. aurea EO is mainly characterised by 1,8-cineole (16.7%), β-pinene (11.9%), cis-thujone (10.5%), camphor (9.5%), and (E)-caryophyllene (9.3%). The results showed an effective inhibition of the growth of dermatophytes. Furthermore, it significantly reduced protein levels of iNOS/COX-2 and simultaneously NO release. Additionally, the EO exhibited anti-senescence potential and enhanced wound healing. Overall, this study highlights the remarkable pharmacological properties of Salvia aurea EO, which should be further explored in order to develop innovative, sustainable, and environmentally friendly skin products.

Active Compounds with Medicinal Potential Found in Maxillariinae Benth. (Orchidaceae Juss.) Representatives-A Review

Orchids are widely used in traditional medicine for the treatment of a whole range of different health conditions, and representatives of the Neotropical subtribe Maxillariinae are not an exception. They are utilized, for instance, for their spasmolytic and anti-inflammatory activities. In this work, we analyze the literature concerning the chemical composition of the plant extracts and secretions of this subtribe's representatives published between 1991 and 2022. Maxillariinae is one of the biggest taxa within the orchid family; however, to date, only 19 species have been investigated in this regard and, as we report, they produce 62 semiochemicals of medical potential. The presented review is the first summary of biologically active compounds found in Maxillariinae.

The Amomum tsao-ko Essential Oils Inhibited Inflammation and Apoptosis through p38/JNK MAPK Signaling Pathway and Alleviated Gentamicin-Induced Acute Kidney Injury

The clinical application of gentamicin may lead to acute kidney injury (AKI), and the nephrotoxicity of gentamicin is related to the pathological mechanism of several oxidative and inflammatory cytokines. Plant-derived essential oils have good anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. This study aimed to clarify the protective effect of Amomum tsao-ko essential oils (AOs) on gentamicin-induced AKI in rats and its possible mechanism. The rat AKI model was induced by intraperitoneal injection of gentamicin. After 14 days of oral AO treatment, the renal function and pathological changes of the kidney tissues were evaluated, and the level of kidney tissue oxidative stress was detected. The content of inflammatory cytokines was measured by ELISA. The expression of ERK1/2, JNK1/2, p38, NF-κB, caspase-3, and Bax/Bcl-2 proteins were estimated by Western blot analysis. The results showed that taking AO reduced the contents of serum urea and creatinine in AKI rats and improve the pathological changes and oxidative stress of the kidney tissue in rats. At the same time, AO reduced inflammation and apoptosis during AKI by regulating the MAPK pathway. The data show that AO has a protective effect on the kidneys and may be a potential drug for treating kidney injury.

1,8-Cineole Ameliorates Advanced Glycation End Products-Induced Alzheimer's Disease-like Pathology In Vitro and In Vivo

Advanced glycation end products (AGEs) are stable products produced by the reaction of macromolecules such as proteins, lipids or nucleic acids with glucose or other reducing monosaccharides, which can be identified by immunohistochemistry in the senile plaques and neurofibrillary tangles of Alzheimer’s disease (AD) patients. Growing evidence suggests that AGEs are important risk factors for the development and progression of AD. 1,8-cineole (CIN) is a monoterpenoid compound which exists in many plant essential oils and has been proven to have neuroprotective activity, but its specific effect and molecular mechanisms are not clear. In this study, AGEs-induced neuronal injury and intracerebroventricular-AGE animals as the possible models for AD were employed to investigate the effects of CIN on AD pathology as well as the molecular mechanisms involved both in vivo and in vitro. Our study demonstrated that CIN could ameliorate tau phosphorylation by down-regulating the activity of GSK-3β and reducing Aβ production by inhibiting the activity of BACE-1 both in vivo and in vitro. It is suggested that CIN has certain therapeutic value in the treatment of AD.

1,8 cineole protects type 2 diabetic rats against diabetic nephropathy via inducing the activity of glyoxalase-I and lowering the level of transforming growth factor-1β

Purpose

Diabetes leading to the production and circulation of glycation products along with the reduction of the activity of glyoxalase-I (GLO-I) contribute to diabetic nephropathy. Therefore, we studied the effect of 1,8 cineole (Cin) on the formation of diverse glycation products and the activity of GLO-I as well as renal histopathological alterations in the type-2 diabetic rat.

Methods

Type 2 diabetes was induced in rats with a combination of streptozotocin and nicotinamide (55 + 200 mg/kg). Two groups of rats, normal and diabetic, were treated intragastrically with Cin (200 mg/kg) once daily for 2 months. Fasting blood sugar, insulin resistance index, lipid profile, the activity of GLO-I, glycation products (Glycated albumin, Glycated LDL, Methylglyoxal, and advanced glycation end products), and oxidative stress (Advanced oxidation protein products, malondialdehyde, oxidized LDL, and reduced glutathione), inflammatory markers (Tumor necrosis factor-α and Transforming growth factor-1β), creatinine in the serum (Cre), and proteinuria (PU) in the urine of all rats was determined as well as renal histopathological alterations were investigated.

Results

Cin reduced biochemical (Cre and PU) and histopathological (glomerulosclerosis) indicators of renal dysfunction in the diabetic rat compared to untreated diabetic rats. Moreover, the treatment decreased different glycation, oxidative stress, and pro-inflammatory markers (p < 0.001). Further, Cin had an advantageous effect on glucose and lipid metabolism.

Conclusions

Cin ameliorated diabetic nephropathy via reduction of TGF-1β following to decrease the formation of different glycation products, oxidative stress, and inflammatory process with the induction of the activity of glyoxalase-I in type 2 diabetic rats.

Activity of Ligustrum vulgare L extracts against acute pancreatitis in murine models by regulation of p38 MAPK and NF-κB signaling pathways

Pancreatitis is a fatal disease associated with significant mortality and morbidity. At present, no specific treatment is available for pancreatitis and the patients are mainly treated with supportive medication. The need for specific antipancreatitic chemotherapy is an urgent medical obligation. In the current study, protective effects of the methanolic extract of the Ligustrum vulgare berries were investigated in the rat model of acute pancreatitis. Acute pancreatitis (AP) was induced in the male Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats by cerulein injection. Fruit extract of L. vulgare L extract was prepared using the methanol. Treatment effects of L. vulgare were evaluated in AP rats. Serum levels of lipase, amylase, proinflamatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-6, TL-1β), lipid peroxidase (LPO), myeloperoxidase (MPO) were determined. Histological changes in the pancreas were assessed. L. vulgare treatment prevented the increase in serum amylase and lipase levels, reduced the disease progression in pancreas, and reduced the serum levels of tumour necrosis factor (TNF)-α, interleukin (IL)-6, and IL-1β in AP rats. Moreover, L. vulgare significantly suppressed pancreatic edema, inhibited oxidative damage (MPO activity and SOD activity), and inhibited the expression of NF-κB/p65 and activation (phosphorylation) of the inhibitor of NF-κB (IκBα) and p38 MAPKs. Histological examinations showed that L. vulgare significantly reduced the inflammatory and fibrotic changes. The results indicated the potent pancreato-protective effects of L. vulgare in AP.

1,8-Cineole: a review of source, biological activities, and application

1,8-Cineole (also known as eucalyptol) is mostly extracted from the essential oils of plants, which showed extensively pharmacological properties including anti-inflammatory and antioxidant mainly via the regulation on NF-κB and Nrf2, and was used for the treatment of respiratory diseases and cardiovascular, etc. Although various administration routes have been used in the application of 1.8-cineole, few formulations have been developed to improve its stability and bioavailability. This review retrospects the researches on the source, biological activities, mechanisms, and application of 1,8-cineole since 2000, which provides a view for the further studies on the application and formulations of 1,8-cineole.

1, 8-cineole attenuates cardiac hypertrophy in heart failure by inhibiting the miR-206-3p/SERP1 pathway

BACKGROUND

1,8-Cineole (1,8-CIN) is a monoterpene found in diverse dietary and medicinal herbs that has been reported to be effective against cardiovascular diseases.

PURPOSE

The present research was designed to elucidate the treatment effects and the underlying mechanism of 1,8-CIN on heart failure (HF).

METHOD

An in vitro cardiac hypertrophy model and an in vivo heart failure (HF) model induced by isoprenaline (ISO) were established and treated with or without 1,8-CIN. In vitro miR-206-3p mimic or inhibitors were created. MiR-206-3p, SERP1 and related mRNAs or proteins were detected using qPCR or western blotting. Cell viability was tested by MTT assay, and apoptosis was measured using TUNEL assay, AO/EB assay and flow cytometry. Actin was stained with FITC-phalloidin. MiR-206-3p and related mRNAs or proteins in cardiac muscle tissues were measured using qPCR or western blotting, HE staining, Masson staining.

RESULTS

ISO subcutaneous injection increased cardiac hypertrophy, cytoplasmic vacuole formation, myofiber loss and fibrosis and decreased cardiomyocyte viability. 1,8-CIN treatment improved cardiomyocyte viability and reduced cardiac hypertrophy, cytoplasmic vacuole formation, myofibre loss and fibrosis. We found that 1,8-CIN attenuated apoptosis. We observed that expression of miR-206-3p was dramatically increased in ISO-exposed cardiomyocytes or ISO-treated rat hearts. MiR-206-3p was identified to target the 3'UTR of SERP1, resulting in the accumulation of un- or misfolded proteins, leading to endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress.

CONCLUSION

These results suggest that 1,8-CIN reduces the apoptosis induced by ER stress through inhibiting miR-206-3p, which inhibits the expression of SERP1.

Monoterpenes: current knowledge on food source, metabolism, and health effects

Monoterpenes, volatile metabolites produced by plants, are involved in the taste and aroma perception of fruits and vegetables and have been used for centuries in gastronomy, as food preservatives and for therapeutic purposes. Biological activities such as antimicrobial, analgesic and anti-inflammatory are well-established for some of these molecules. More recently, the ability of monoterpenes to regulate energy metabolism, and exert antidiabetic, anti-obesity and gut microbiota modulation activities have been described. Despite their promising health effects, the lack of reliable quantification of monoterpenes in food, hindered the investigation of their role as dietary bioactive compounds in epidemiological studies. Moreover, only few studies have documented the biotransformation of these compounds and identified the monoterpene metabolites with biological activity. This review presents up-to-date knowledge about the occurrence of monoterpenes in food, their bioavailability and potential role in the modulation of intermediate metabolism and inflammation, focusing on novel findings of molecular mechanisms, underlining research gaps and new avenues to be explored.

1,8-cineole ameliorates ischaemic brain damage via TRPC6/CREB pathways in rats

OBJECTIVES

A previous in vitro study reported that the monoterpene oxide 1,8-cineole (cineole) attenuates neuronal caused by oxygen-glucose deprivation/reoxygenation in culture. However, to date, there is no in vivo evidence showing neuroprotective effects of cineole against stroke. This study aimed to investigate whether cineole attenuates cerebral ischaemic damage in rats.

METHODS

A rat model of middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) followed by 24 h reperfusion was applied. Male rats were treated with oral cineole (100 mg/kg) for 7 consecutive days, then subjected to MCAO surgery. Infarct volume, neurologic deficits, apoptosis and expression levels of all-spectrin breakdown products of 145 kDa (SBDP145), transient receptor potential canonical (subtype) 6 (TRPC6) and phosphorylated CREB (p-CREB) were measured in ischaemic brain tissues.

KEY FINDINGS

Cineole treatment significantly reduced infarct volume, neurological dysfunction, neuronal apoptosis, SBDP145 formation and TRPC6 degradation and enhanced p-CREB expression in MCAO rats compared with vehicle treatment. These neuroprotective effects were markedly suppressed by pharmacological inhibition of MEK or CaMKIV signalling.

CONCLUSIONS

Our study provides in vivo evidence demonstrating that cineole pretreatment attenuates ischaemic stroke-induced brain damage, mainly through blocking calpain-induced TRPC6 degradation and activating CREB via MEK/CREB and CaMKIV/CREB signalling pathways.

Preventive Effect of Eucalyptol on the Formation of Aorta Lesions in the Diabetic-Atherosclerotic Rat

Background:

Glycation, inflammation, and oxidative stress are the cardinal motivators of diabetes vascular complications. Here, we studied the effect of eucalyptol (EUC) on the formation of atheromatous lesions, glycation, oxidative stress, and inflammatory markers as well as insulin resistance, lipid profile, and activity of glyoxalase-1 (GLO-I) in the atherosclerotic rat model.

Methods:

Diabetic-atherosclerosis induced in rats with a combination of streptozotocin and atherogenic diet. Two groups of rats, normal and diabetic-atherosclerotic, were treated intragastrically with EUC (200 mg/kg) once daily for 3 months. Fasting blood sugar (FBS), insulin, insulin resistance index, lipid profile, the activity of GLO-I, low-density lipoprotein (LDL) glycation and oxidation markers, inflammatory markers, creatinine in the serum, and proteinuria in the urine of all rats were determined.

Results:

EUC inhibited the formation of any atheromatous lesions in atherosclerotic rats. Further, EUC displayed the lowering effect on glycemia, insulin resistance, LDL glycation, and oxidation products, and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α as well as it exhibited the improving effect on lipid profile, the activity of GLO-I, and renal function in the diabetic rat (P < 0.001).

Conclusions:

EUC prevented the formation of the atheromatous lesions and improved renal function in the atherosclerotic rat model due to a reduction of glycation, oxidative stress, and inflammatory mediators.

Monoterpenes as a perspective for the treatment of seizures: A Systematic Review

BACKGROUND

Epilepsy affects more than 65 million people worldwide. Treatment for epileptic seizures is ineffective and has many adverse effects. For this reason, the search for new therapeutic options capable of filling these limitations is necessary.

HYPOTHESIS/PURPOSE

In this sense, natural products, such as monoterpenes, have been indicated as a new option to control neurological disorders such as epilepsy.

STUDY DESIGN

Therefore, the objective of this study was to review the monoterpenes that have anticonvulsive activity in animal models.

METHODS

The searches were performed in the PubMed, Web of Science and Scopus databases in September, 2020 and compiled studies using monoterpenes as an alternative to seizure. Two independent reviewers performed the study selection, data extraction and methodological quality assessment using the Syrcle tool.

RESULTS

51 articles that described the anticonvulsant activity of 35 monoterpenes were selected with action on the main pharmacological target, including GABAA receptors, glutamate, calcium channels, sodium and potassium. In addition, these compounds are capable of reducing neuronal inflammation and oxidative stress caused by seizure.

CONCLUSION

These compounds stand out as a promising alternative for acting through different pharmacological mechanisms, which may not only reduce seizure, but also promote neuroprotective effect by reducing toxicity in brain regions. However, further studies are needed to determine the mechanism of action and safety assessment of these compounds.

DEHP-induce damage in grass carp hepatocytes and the remedy of Eucalyptol

The wide application of plastic products led to the wide exposure of plasticizer in environment. As a new environmental pollutant, plasticizers' toxicity researches were far from enough in fish. In order to further explore these mechanisms, we used Diethylhexyl phthalate (DEHP), a common plasticizer, treated the grass carp hepatocytes, and selected Eucalyptol (EUC) to study its antagonistic effect on DEHP. The results showed that after DEHP exposure, oxidative stress level and inflammation in grass carp hepatocytes were increased, and then mRNA and protein expression of apoptosis related markers were increased significantly, leading to hepatocytes apoptosis. Moreover, AO/EB staining and Hoethst staining also showed that the number of apoptotic cells increased after DEHP exposure. It should be noted that both EUC pretreatment and EUC simultaneous treatment could alleviate the oxidative stress, levels of inflammatory factors and apoptosis induced by DEHP. In comparison, the effect of EUC simultaneous treatment was better. Our results showed that DEHP induced apoptosis in grass carp hepatocytes through oxidative stress and inflammation, while EUC could alleviate apoptosis by reducing oxidative stress and inflammation caused by DEHP. The innovation of this study was to explore the interaction between DEHP and EUC for the first time. This study found that DEHP could cause apoptosis in grass carp hepatocytes through oxidative stress and inflammation; EUC had a good antagonistic effect on a series of damage in grass carp hepatocytes caused by DEHP, and EUC pretreatment and simultaneous treatment had a certain effect, among which, simultaneous treatment had a better effect. This study enriched the theoretical mechanism of DEHP toxicity in fish hepatocytes, and put forward the methods to solve the toxicity of DEHP.

Improving protection effects of eucalyptol via carboxymethyl chitosan-coated lipid nanoparticles on hyperglycaemia-induced vascular endothelial injury in rats

Hyperglycaemia is responsible for the major pathophysiological factor of diabetes-associated vascular endothelial injury, which mainly resulted from the disturbance of equilibrium between ROS generation and elimination. Eucalyptol was verified with exact anti-oxidation effects via stimulating the secretion of endogenous antioxidant enzymes against ROS. However, the volatility, instability and poor water solubility of eucalyptol limited its pharmacological activities in vivo. In this study, we developed carboxymethyl chitosan-coated lipid nanoparticles for eucalyptol (CMC/ELN) to facilitate oral administration. A thin lipid film dispersion method was used to prepare the ELN. After CMC coating, the diameter of ELN increased from 166 nm to 177 nm and charge reversal was observed. The nanocarrier enhanced the protective effects of eucalyptol both in the high level of glucose (HG)-damaged HUVECs and endothelial injury in type I diabetes mellitus (T₁DM) rat model. Furthermore, the mechanism of eucalyptol on the promotion of Nrf2 and HO-1 and reduction on Keap1 expression have been verified both in the in vitro and in vivo model. Besides, the pharmacokinetics data were verified the promotion of the oral eucalyptol absorption by the nanocarrier. Taken together, we established an optimal oral delivery system that promoted oral administration of eucalyptol to exert protective effects on hyperglycaemia-induced vascular endothelial injury.

Protective effect of alpha-pinene against isoproterenol-induced myocardial infarction through NF-κB signaling pathway

Monoterpenes present in the essential oils exhibit anti-inflammatory properties. In this study, we investigated the preventive effect of alpha-pinene (AP), a monoterpene, against isoproterenol (ISO)-induced myocardial infarction and inflammation in Wistar rats. Male Wistar rats were pretreated with AP (50 mg/kg body weight (bw)) administration for 21 days and ISO (85 mg/kg bw) was administered subcutaneously for last two consecutive days (20th day and 21st day). We noticed that there was an increased activity of cardiac marker enzymes in ISO-treated rats. We also observed that elevated levels of lipid peroxidative indices decreased activities of antioxidant status in plasma, erythrocyte, and heart tissue in ISO-induced rats. Furthermore, ISO-treated rats showed an increase in the levels of inflammatory mediators like tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) and interleukin-6 (IL-6) in the serum. Besides, we confirmed the upregulated expression of TNF-α, IL-6, and nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells in ISO-induced rat heart tissue. Conversely, we found that AP pretreatment significantly decreased levels of cardiac markers like serum cardiac troponin T and cardiac troponin I, lipid peroxidative markers, and restored antioxidants status in ISO-treated rats. Besides, AP administration attenuated ISO-induced inflammatory marker expression. The present findings demonstrated that AP significantly protects the myocardium and exerts cardioprotective and anti-inflammatory effects in experimental rats.

Interspecific variability of 1,8-cineole content, phenolics and bioactivity among nine Eucalyptus taxa growing under the sub-humid bioclimate stage

Background Eucalyptus essential oils and extracts are used since the ancient times in alternative medicine. The 1,8-cineole is the most significant constituent of Eucalyptus essential oil, while phenolic contents define the value of eucalyptus extracts. Based on the last considerations, interspecific variability of 1,8-cineole content, phenolics and antioxidant potentials among nine Eucalyptus taxa growing under the sub-humid bioclimate stage of Tunisia was investigated. Methods Essential oil profiling was assessed based on gas chromatography-mass spectrometry analysis. Total phenolic and flavonoid contents were assessed using Folin-Ciocalteau and aluminium chloride colorimetric methods, respectively. The antioxidant ability of Eucalyptus volatile metabolites and extracts was achieved based on two test systems namely DPPH and FRAP assays. Results Qualitative and quantitative variations in the composition of essential oils according to the studied taxon were shown. The total phenolic and flavonoid contents varied also significantly among the investigated samples. Based on the obtained results, the species Eucalyptus sideroxylon exhibits the highest 1,8-cineole content (76.24 ± 0.86), total phenolics and flavonoids contents (38.5 ± 1.4 mg GAE /g DW and 18.6 ± 0.3 mg RE /g DW, respectively). Moreover this species highlighted the highest free radical-scavenging ability and ferric reducing power for both essential oil and methanolic extracts. Chemometric multivariate analysis showed the classification of the nine studied taxa to three clusters. Conclusions The pattern of 1,8-cineole concentration, phenolic and flavonoid contents for the studied nine Eucalyptus species and hybrid showed E. sideroxylon species as the potential candidate for further improvement strategies regarding the production of eucalyptus essential oils and phenolics with high quality for pharmaceutical industry.

Eucalyptol alleviates inflammation and pain responses in a mouse model of gout arthritis

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Gout arthritis, which is provoked by monosodium urate (MSU) crystal accumulation in the joint and periarticular tissues, induces severe pain and affects quality of life of the patients. Eucalyptol (1,8-cineol), the principal component in the essential oils of eucalyptus leaves, is known to possess anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties. We aimed to examine the therapeutic effects of eucalyptol on gout arthritis and related mechanisms.

EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH

A mouse model of gout arthritis was established via MSU injection into the ankle joint. Ankle oedema, mechanical allodynia, neutrophil infiltration, oxidative stress, NLRP3 inflammasome, and TRPV1 expression were examined.

KEY RESULTS

Eucalyptol attenuated MSU-induced mechanical allodynia and ankle oedema in dose-dependently, with effectiveness similar to indomethacin. Eucalyptol reduced inflammatory cell infiltrations in ankle tissues. Eucalyptol inhibited NLRP3 inflammasome activation and pro-inflammatory cytokine production induced by MSU in ankle tissues in vivo. Eucalyptol reduced oxidative stress induced by MSU in RAW264.7 cells in vitro as well as in ankle tissues in vivo, indicated by an increase in activities of antioxidant enzymes and reduction of ROS. Eucalyptol attenuated MSU-induced up-regulation of TRPV1 expression in ankle tissues and dorsal root ganglion neurons innervating the ankle. The in vivo effects of eucalyptol on ankle oedema, mechanical allodynia, NLRP3 inflammasome, IL-1β, and TRPV1 expression were mimicked by treating MSU-injected mice with antioxidants.

CONCLUSION AND IMPLICATIONS

Eucalyptol alleviates MSU-induced pain and inflammation via mechanisms possibly involving anti-oxidative effect. Eucalyptol and other antioxidants may represent promising therapeutic options for gout arthritis.

Eupatilin Ameliorates Cerulein-Induced Pancreatitis Via Inhibition of the Protein Kinase D1 Signaling Pathway In Vitro

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of eupatilin on protein kinase D1 (PKD1) and nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) signaling pathways in cerulein-induced in vitro pancreatitis.

METHODS

We used collagenase digestion to isolate pancreatic acinar cells from male C57BL/6 mice. In vitro acute pancreatitis was induced by treatment with a supramaximal dose of cerulein. Eupatilin was pretreated before stimulation with cerulein.

RESULTS

Eupatilin significantly reduced cerulein-induced amylase release in pancreatic acini. Eupatilin treatment downregulated cerulein-induced expression of interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-6, and CC chemokine ligands 2 and 5, but it upregulated expression of IL-4 and IL-10. We demonstrated that eupatilin pretreatment attenuated cerulein-induced necrosis in isolated pancreatic acinar cells. This effect of eupatilin was confirmed by lactic dehydrogenase assay, fluorescence-activated cell sorting analysis, and cytopathologic analysis. Eupatilin inhibited cerulein-induced activation of PKD1/NF-κB and the nuclear translocation of NF-κB.

CONCLUSIONS

Our data demonstrated that eupatilin is a potential therapeutic candidate for the treatment of pancreatitis through its ability to reduce cellular necrosis and inflammatory responses by inhibition of the PKD1/NF-κB signaling pathway.

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.

Suppression of Propionibacterium acnes-Induced Skin Inflammation by Laurus nobilis Extract and Its Major Constituent Eucalyptol

Acne is an inflammatory skin disorder in puberty with symptoms including papules, folliculitis, and nodules. Propionibacterium acnes (P. acnes) is the main anaerobic bacteria that cause acne. It is known to proliferate within sebum-blocked skin hair follicles. P. acnes activates monocytic cell immune responses to induce the expression of proinflammatory cytokines. Although the anti-inflammatory function of the Laurus nobilis (L. nobilis) extract (LNE) on several immunological disorders have been reported, the effect of LNE in P. acnes-mediated skin inflammation has not yet been explored. In the present study, we examined the ability of the LNE to modulate the P. acnes-induced inflammatory signaling pathway, and evaluated its mechanism. LNE significantly suppressed the expression of P. acnes-mediated proinflammatory cytokines, such as IL-1β, IL-6, and NLRP3. We also found that LNE inhibited the inflammatory transcription factor NF-κB in response to P. acnes. In addition, eucalyptol, which is the main constituent of LNE, consistently inhibited P. acnes-induced inflammatory signaling pathways. Moreover, LNE significantly ameliorated P. acnes-induced inflammation in a mouse model of acne. We suggest for the first time that LNE hold therapeutic value for the improvement of P. acnes-induced skin inflammation.

Effect of Simultaneous Snail Slime-aided Degradation and Yeast Fermentation on Terpenoid Composition of Plantain Pseudostem Waste

Background:

In this study, local sustainable enzyme sources involving excised digestive juice of African land snail and yeast were utilized to achieve the simultaneous saccharification (SSF) and fermentation (SSF) of plantain pseudostem (PPS) waste, and afterwards their effects on terpenoids using gas chromatography coupled to a flame ionization detector (GC-FID), were examined.

Methods:

The most abundant terpenoids were found in the order α-pinene > borneol > camphor > humulene > β-caryophellene, while the least in abundance were cis ocimene (8.78x10-6 mg/100g), and cyperene (1.81x10-5 mg/100g). The application of exclusive fermentation and SSF respectively elevated azuluene by 95.46 and 99.6%, while pinene-2-ol was elevated by 83.02 and 98.57%, respectively.

Results:

Both exclusive fermentation and SSF had no effect on myrcene, cyperene, ethyl cinnamate, germacrene b, valencene, beta selinene, aromadendrene, and taraxerol, while the degree of degradation of some of the terpenoids by both processes was respectively as follows; gama muurolene (100%), β-caryophyllene (97.60 and 93.14%), α-terpinenyl acetate (91.95 and 83.16%), geranyl acetate (94.81 and 43.87%), and terpinen-4-ol (94.40 and 57.00%).

Conclusion:

The findings of this study encourage the imminent application of simultaneous saccharification and fermentation for the enhancement of bioactivities of terpenoids.

Eucalyptol promotes lung repair in mice following cigarette smoke-induced emphysema

BACKGROUND

Eucalyptol is a monoterpenoid oil present in many plants, principally the Eucalyptus species, and has been reported to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidative effects.

HYPOTHESIS/PURPOSE

Since the potential effect of eucalyptol on mouse lung repair has not yet been studied, and considering that chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is the fourth leading cause of death worldwide, the aim of this study was to investigate eucalyptol treatment in emphysematous mice.

STUDY DESIGN

Male mice (C57BL/6) were divided into the following groups: control (sham-exposed), cigarette smoke (CS) (mice exposed to 12 cigarettes a day for 60 days), CS + 1 mg/ml (CS mice treated with 1 mg/ml eucalyptol for 60 days), and CS + 10 mg/ml (CS mice treated with 10 mg/ml eucalyptol for 60 days). Mice in the CS and control groups received vehicle for 60 days. Eucalyptol (or the vehicle) was administered via inhalation (15 min/daily). Mice were sacrificed 24 h after the completion of the 120-day experimental procedure.

METHODS

Histology and additional lung morphometric analyses, including analysis of mean linear intercept (Lm) and volume density of alveolar septa (Vv[alveolar septa]) were performed. Biochemical analyses were also performed using colorimetric assays for myeloperoxidase (MPO), malondialdehyde (MDA), and superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity, in addition to using ELISA kits for the determination of inflammatory marker levels (tumor necrosis factor alpha [TNF-α], interleukin-1 beta [IL-1β], interleukin 6 [IL-6], keratinocyte chemoattractant [KC], and tumor growth factor beta 1 [TGF-β1]). Finally, we investigated protein levels by western blotting (nuclear factor (erythroid-derived 2)-like 2 [Nrf2], nuclear factor kappa B [NF-κB], matrix metalloproteinase 12 [MMP-12], tissue inhibitor of matrix metalloproteinase 1 [TIMP-1], neutrophil elastase [NE], and elastin).

RESULTS

Eucalyptol promoted lung repair at the higher dose (10 mg/ml), with de novo formation of alveoli, when compared to the CS group. This result was confirmed with Lm and Vv[alveolar septa] morphometric analyses. Moreover, collagen deposit around the peribronchiolar area was reduced with eucalyptol treatment when compared to the CS group. Eucalyptol also reduced all inflammatory (MPO, TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6, KC, and TGF-β1) and redox marker levels (MDA) when compared to the CS group (at least p < 0.05). In general, 10 mg/ml eucalyptol was more effective than 1 mg/ml and, at both doses, we observed an upregulation of SOD activity when compared to the CS group (p < 0.001). Eucalyptol upregulated elastin and TIMP-1 levels, and reduced neutrophil elastase (NE) levels, when compared to the CS group.

CONCLUSION

In summary, eucalyptol promoted lung repair in emphysematous mice and represents a potential therapeutic phytomedicine in the treatment of COPD.

Monoterpenes modulating cytokines - A review

Inflammatory response can be driven by cytokine production and is a pivotal target in the management of inflammatory diseases. Monoterpenes have shown that promising profile as agents which reduce the inflammatory process and also modulate the key chemical mediators of inflammation, such as pro and anti-inflammatory cytokines. The main interest focused on monoterpenes were to develop the analgesic and anti-inflammatory drugs. In this review, we summarized current knowledge on monoterpenes that produce anti-inflammatory effects by modulating the release of cytokines, as well as suggesting that which monoterpenoid molecules may be most effective in the treatment of inflammatory disease. Several different inflammatory markers were evaluated as a target of monoterpenes. The proinflammatory and anti-inflammatory cytokines were found TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-2, IL-5, IL-4, IL-6, IL-8, IL-10, IL-12 IL-13, IL-17A, IFNγ, TGF-β1 and IFN-γ. Our review found evidence that NF-κB and MAPK signaling are important pathways for the anti-inflammatory action of monoterpenes. We found 24 monoterpenes that modulate the production of cytokines, which appears to be the major pharmacological mechanism these compounds possess in relation to the attenuation of inflammatory response. Despite the compelling evidence supporting the anti-inflammatory effect of monoterpenes, further studies are necessary to fully explore their potential as anti-inflammatory compounds.

Withaferin A, a novel compound of Indian ginseng (Withania somnifera), ameliorates Cerulein-induced acute pancreatitis: Possible role of oxidative stress and inflammation

Acute pancreatitis is an inflammatory disorder of the pancreas that may precipitate due to various reasons such as chronic alcoholism, gall stone obstruction, and life style. Current treatment options offer limited efficacy, as they provide only symptomatic relief. This study is an attempt to study the effects of Withaferin A (WFA) against Cerulein-induced acute pancreatitis in mice. Animals were pretreated with WFA via intraperitoneal route, for 7 days. Plasma amylase and lipase, tissue malondialdehyde (MDA), and glutathione were evaluated for all groups. Western blot analysis; haematoxylin and eosin staining of the liver, lung, and pancreas; immunohistochemistry for nitrotyrosine; and myeloperoxidase activity were performed. Haematoxylin and eosin stained sections significantly revealed the altered architecture and thereby damage in the pancreas, lungs, and liver that has been low in treatment groups. Increased myeloperoxidase and nitrotyrosine have also been reduced upon treatment with WFA. Increased levels of MDA, NO, and expression of myeloperoxidase and nitrotyrosine in the parameters estimated add evidence to the role of oxidative stress and inflammation in acute pancreatitis. WFA evidently altered these conditions upon pretreatment. Our study shows that this novel steroidal compound has potent anti-inflammatory property. Natural compounds can therefore be good remedies against many diseases if incorporated in routine diet as dietary supplement.

Protective Effects of Rhubarb in Rats with Acute Pancreatitis and the Role of Its Active Compound Rhein on Mitochondria of Exocrine Cells

Da-Cheng-Qi-Decoction (DCQD) has been used in the treatment of acute pancreatitis (AP) in China for many years. The aim of the current study was to examine the principal ingredient rhubarb of DCQD and its potential link to the pancreatic repair effects in rats with AP. The pancreatitis was induced in SD rats by intraperitoneal injections of cerulein. The results showed that rhubarb significantly increased blood perfusion of pancreatic tissue, reversed mitochondrial damage, and promoted pancreatic acinar and stellate cell proliferation. In addition, the rhein (from rhubarb) had high distribution in pancreas tissue and protected mitochondria in AR42J cells via the activation of PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling pathway and activity inhibition of AMPK (P < 0.05). The results provide some preclinical evidence on the protective effects of DCQD for the treatment of acute pancreatitis. Rhein is regarded to be the active compound of rhubarb and can be expected to be a new compound for the treatment of AP.

Calycosin alleviates cerulein-induced acute pancreatitis by inhibiting the inflammatory response and oxidative stress via the p38 MAPK and NF-κB signal pathways in mice

Acute pancreatitis (AP) is a common acute abdominal disease accompanied by systemic inflammatory response syndrome, and could even be complicated by multiple-organ damage. This study aimed to examine whether calycosin, an isoflavone isolated from Radix astragali with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity, could protect against AP induced by cerulein. To this end, Balb/C mice were injected with cerulein (50 μg/kg) to establish the animal model of AP. Calycosin (25 and 50 mg/kg, p.o.) was administered 1 h prior to the first cerulein injection. After the last injection of cerulein, the mice were sacrificed and blood was obtained for cytokine analysis. The pancreas was removed for morphological examination, myeloperoxidase (MPO) and malondialdehyde (MDA) analyses, immunohistochemistry, and western blot analysis. Calycosin treatment reversed the increased serum levels of amylase and lipase, alleviated the pathological damage in the pancreas, and decreased the levels of tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, interleukin (IL)-6, and IL-1β in mice with AP. Additionally, calycosin significantly reduced cerulein-induced pancreatic edema, inhibited MPO activity and increased superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity, and inhibited the expression of NF-κB/p65 and phosphorylation of the inhibitor of NF-κB (IκBα) and p38 MAPK. These results suggested that calycosin protects against AP by exerting anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidative stress effects via the p38 MAPK and NF-κB signal pathways. Calycosin's benefits for AP patients need to be explored further.

Steroid Receptor Coactivator-Interacting Protein (SIP) Suppresses Myocardial Injury Caused by Acute Pancreatitis

BACKGROUND Steroid receptor coactivator-interacting protein (SIP) inhibits the activation of nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) by interacting with p65. The occurrence of acute pancreatitis (AP) is closely associated with pro-inflammatory response. The present study aimed to investigate the role of SIP on myocardial injury caused by AP. MATERIAL AND METHODS Rat pancreatic acinar tumor cell line AR42J cells were treated with caerulein to establish AP cell models. The levels of TNF-α, IL-6, cTnI, CK-MB, and LDH1 were detected by ELISA assay. The mRNA and protein expression levels of SIP, p-p65, and p65 were detected by qRT-PCR and western blot analysis, respectively. Next, the AP cell models were non-transfected or transfected with SIP plasmids or SIP siRNA. ELISA assay was also performed to test the levels of TNF-α, IL-6, cTnI, CK-MB, and LDH1. Moreover, qRT-PCR and western blot analysis were performed to measure the mRNA and protein expression levels of SIP, p-p65, and p65, respectively. RESULTS Caerulein upregulated the levels of TNF-α, IL-6, cTnI, CK-MB, and LDH1. These upregulations were reduced by SIP plasmids and promoted by SIP siRNA, respectively. Caerulein also increased the mRNA and protein expression levels of p-p65. However, the increases were attenuated by SIP plasmids and enhanced by SIP siRNA, respectively. CONCLUSIONS In conclusion, the results suggested that SIP may inhibit the inflammatory response by deactivating p65, thus reducing the myocardial damage caused by AP.

Chronic diseases, inflammation, and spices: how are they linked?

Extensive research within the last several decades has revealed that the major risk factors for most chronic diseases are infections, obesity, alcohol, tobacco, radiation, environmental pollutants, and diet. It is now well established that these factors induce chronic diseases through induction of inflammation. However, inflammation could be either acute or chronic. Acute inflammation persists for a short duration and is the host defense against infections and allergens, whereas the chronic inflammation persists for a long time and leads to many chronic diseases including cancer, cardiovascular diseases, neurodegenerative diseases, respiratory diseases, etc. Numerous lines of evidence suggest that the aforementioned risk factors induced cancer through chronic inflammation. First, transcription factors NF-κB and STAT3 that regulate expression of inflammatory gene products, have been found to be constitutively active in most cancers; second, chronic inflammation such as pancreatitis, prostatitis, hepatitis etc. leads to cancers; third, activation of NF-κB and STAT3 leads to cancer cell proliferation, survival, invasion, angiogenesis and metastasis; fourth, activation of NF-κB and STAT3 leads to resistance to chemotherapy and radiation, and hypoxia and acidic conditions activate these transcription factors. Therefore, targeting these pathways may provide opportunities for both prevention and treatment of cancer and other chronic diseases. We will discuss in this review the potential of various dietary agents such as spices and its components in the suppression of inflammatory pathways and their roles in the prevention and therapy of cancer and other chronic diseases. In fact, epidemiological studies do indicate that cancer incidence in countries such as India where spices are consumed daily is much lower (94/100,000) than those where spices are not consumed such as United States (318/100,000), suggesting the potential role of spices in cancer prevention.

1,8-cineole prevents UVB-induced skin carcinogenesis by targeting the aryl hydrocarbon receptor

1,8-cineole is a natural monoterpene cyclic ether present in Eucalyptus, and has been reported to exhibit anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. However, the preventive effect of 1,8-cineole on skin carcinogenesis and the molecular mechanism of action responsible remains unknown. In the present study, we investigated the effect of 1,8-cineole on UVB-induced skin carcinogenesis. 1,8-cineole inhibited UVB-induced cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) protein and mRNA expression and prostaglandin E₂ (PGE₂) generation in HaCaT cells. 1,8-cineole also inhibited phosphorylation of extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) 1/2, and phosphorylation of its upstream kinases, c-Src and epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR). Quantitative real-time RT-PCR (qRT-PCR) and drug affinity responsive target stability (DARTS) assay results showed that 1,8-cineole suppressed UVB-induced expression of a target gene of the aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR), cyp1a1, and directly binds to AhR. Knockdown of AhR suppressed COX-2 expression as well as phosphorylation of ERK1/2 in HaCaT cells. Furthermore, topical treatment of 1,8-cineole on mouse skin delayed tumor incidence and reduced tumor numbers, while inhibiting COX-2 expression in vivo. Taken together, these results suggest that 1,8-cineole is a potent chemopreventive agent that inhibits UVB-induced COX-2 expression by targeting AhR to suppress UVB-induced skin carcinogenesis.

Melaleuca quinquenervia essential oil inhibits α-melanocyte-stimulating hormone-induced melanin production and oxidative stress in B16 melanoma cells

BACKGROUND

Essential oils are odorous, volatile products of plant secondary metabolism, which are found in many leaves and stems. They show important biological activities, which account for the development of aromatherapy used in complementary and alternative medicine. The essential oil extracted from Melaleuca quinquenervia (Cav.) S.T. Blake (paperbark) (MQ-EO) has various functional properties.

PURPOSE

The aim of this study is to investigate the chemical composition of MQ-EO by using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) and evaluate its tyrosinase inhibitory activity.

METHODS

Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS)-based metabolomics was used to identify 18 components in MQ-EO. The main components identified were 1,8-cineole (21.60%), α-pinene (15.93%), viridiflorol (14.55%), and α-terpineol (13.73%). B16 melanoma cells were treated with α-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (α-MSH) in the presence of various concentrations of MQ-EO or its major compounds. Cell viability was accessed by MTT assay and cellular tyrosinase activity and melanin content were determined by using spectrophotographic methods. The antioxidant mechanism of MQ-EO in α-MSH stimulated B16 cells was also investigated.

RESULTS

In α-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (α-MSH)-stimulated murine B16 melanoma cells, MQ-EO, 1,8-cineole, α-pinene, and α-terpineol significantly reduced melanin content and tyrosinase activity. Moreover, MQ-EO, 1,8-cineole, α-pinene, and α-terpineol decreased malondialdehyde (MDA) levels. In addition, restored glutathione (GSH) levels, glutathione peroxidase (GPx), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and catalase activities were increased in α-MSH-stimulated B16 cells. MQ-EO not only decreased apoptosis but also reduced DNA damage in α-MSH stimulated B16 cells. These results showed that MQ-EO and its main components, 1,8-cineole, α-pinene, and α-terpineol, possessed potent anti-tyrosinase and anti-melanogenic activities besides the antioxidant properties.

CONCLUSIONS

The active functional components of MQ-EO were found to be 1,8-cineole, α-pinene, and α-terpineol. Consequently, the results of present study suggest that MQ-EO is non-cytotoxic and can be used as a skin-whitening agent, both medically and cosmetically.