Gentiana lutea exerts anti-atherosclerotic effects by preventing endothelial inflammation and smooth muscle cell migration

Hawthorn leaf flavonoids alleviate the deterioration of atherosclerosis by inhibiting SCAP-SREBP2-LDLR pathway through sPLA2-ⅡA signaling in macrophages in mice

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Hawthorn leaves are a combination of the dried leaves of the Rosaceae plants, i.e., Crataegus pinnatifida Bge. or Crataegus pinnatifida Bge. var. major N. E. Br., is primarily cultivated in East Asia, North America, and Europe. hawthorn leaf flavonoids (HLF) are the main part of extraction. The HLF have demonstrated potential in preventing hypertension, inflammation, hyperlipidemia, and atherosclerosis. However, the potential pharmacological mechanism behind its anti-atherosclerotic effect has yet to be explored.

AIM OF THE STUDY

The in vivo and in vitro effects of HLF on lipid-mediated foam cell formation were investigated, with a specific focus on the levels of secreted phospholipase A2 type IIA (sPLA2-II A) in macrophage cells.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The primary constituents of HLF were analyzed using ultra-high performance liquid chromatography and liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry. In vivo, HLF, at concentrations of 5 mg/kg, 20 mg/kg, and 40 mg/kg, were administered to apolipoprotein E knockout mice (ApoE-/-) fed by high-fat diet (HFD) for 16 weeks. Aorta and serum samples were collected to identify lesion areas and lipids through mass spectrometry analysis to dissect the pathological process. RAW264.7 cells were incubated with oxidized low-density lipoprotein (ox-LDL) alone, or ox-LDL combined with different doses of HLF (100, 50, and 25 μg/ml), or ox-LDL plus 24-h sPLA2-IIA inhibitors, for cell biology analysis. Lipids and inflammatory cytokines were detected using biochemical analyzers and ELISA, while plaque size and collagen content of plaque were assessed by HE and the Masson staining of the aorta. The lipid deposition in macrophages was observed by Oil Red O staining. The expression of sPLA2-IIA and SCAP-SREBP2-LDLR was determined by RT-qPCR and Western blot analysis.

RESULTS

The chemical profile of HLF was studied using UPLC-Q-TOF-MS/MS, allowing the tentative identification of 20 compounds, comprising 1 phenolic acid, 9 flavonols and 10 flavones, including isovitexin, vitexin-4″-O-glucoside, quercetin-3-O-robibioside, rutin, vitexin-2″-O-rhamnoside, quercetin, etc. HLF decreased total cholesterol (TC), triglycerides (TG), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), and non-high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (non-HDL-C) levels in ApoE-/- mice (P < 0.05), reduced ox-LDL uptake, inhibited level of inflammatory factors, such as IL-6, IL-8, TNF-α, and IL-1ꞵ (P < 0.001), and alleviated aortic plaques with a thicker fibrous cap. HLF effectively attenuated foam cell formation in ox-LDL-treated RAW264.7 macrophages, and reduced levels of intracellular TC, free cholesterol (FC), cholesteryl ester (CE), IL-6, TNF-α, and IL-1β (P < 0.001). In both in vivo and in vitro experiments, HLF significantly downregulated the expression of sPLA2-IIA, SCAP, SREBP2, LDLR, HMGCR, and LOX-1 (P < 0.05). Furthermore, sPLA2-IIA inhibitor effectively mitigated inflammatory release in RAW264.7 macrophages and regulated SCAP-SREBP2-LDLR signaling pathway by inhibiting sPLA2-IIA secretion (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

HLF exerted a protective effect against atherosclerosis through inhibiting sPLA2-IIA to diminish SCAP-SREBP2-LDLR signaling pathway, to reduce LDL uptake caused foam cell formation, and to slow down the progression of atherosclerosis in mice.

Spasmolytic Activity of Gentiana lutea L. Root Extracts on the Rat Ileum: Underlying Mechanisms of Action

The roots of Gentiana lutea L. are utilized in the preparation of various beverages and herbal remedies, serving as a traditional remedy for gastrointestinal ailments. The spasmolytic activity that could substantiate the traditional use of G. lutea root had not been investigated. The main objective goal of the study was to determine the validity of its use as a traditional remedy. The extraction of G. lutea root was performed using a 50% hydroethanolic solvent with three different extraction techniques: ultrasound-assisted extraction (UAE), heat-assisted extraction, and percolation. The spasmolytic activity was tested on isolated rat ileum. The mechanism of action was monitored using the models of spontaneous contractions and acetylcholine-, histamine-, CaCl2-, Bay K8644-, L-NAME-, ODQ-, apamin-, BaCl2-, charybdotoxin-, glibenclamide-, TRAM-34-, and quinine-modified contractions. UAE, having the best bioactivity, was further subjected to a liquid-liquid extraction fractionation. HPLC phytochemical analysis was performed for all tested extracts and fractions. Gentian root extracts were rich in secoiridoids, xanthones, and flavonoids. The UAE has shown better results on spontaneous contractions in comparison to its fractions, leading to the more detailed testing of its spasmolytic mechanism of activity. The extract's activity is primarily mediated through intermediate conductance Ca2+-activated K+ channels, ATP-sensitive K+ channels, voltage-sensitive K+ channels, and mechanisms that activate Ca2+ channels. Overall, the G. lutea root shows great potential in the treatment of spasmodic gastrointestinal ailments.

Receptor Tyrosine Kinase: Still an Interesting Target to Inhibit the Proliferation of Vascular Smooth Muscle Cells

Vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) proliferation is a critical event that contributes to the pathogenesis of vascular remodeling such as hypertension, restenosis, and pulmonary hypertension. Increasing evidences have revealed that VSMCs proliferation is associated with the activation of receptor tyrosine kinases (RTKs) by their ligands, including the insulin-like growth factor receptor (IGFR), fibroblast growth factor receptor (FGFR), epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR), vascular endothelial growth factor receptor (VEGFR), and platelet-derived growth factor receptor (PDGFR). Moreover, some receptor tyrosinase inhibitors (TKIs) have been found and can prevent VSMCs proliferation to attenuate vascular remodeling. Therefore, this review will describe recent research progress on the role of RTKs and their inhibitors in controlling VSMCs proliferation, which helps to better understand the function of VSMCs proliferation in cardiovascular events and is beneficial for the prevention and treatment of vascular disease.

Efficacy of the Unani Regimen as an Add-On to Standard Treatment in Hospitalised RT-PCR-Confirmed Mild to Moderate COVID-19 Patients: An Open-Label Randomized Controlled Trial

Background The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic resulted in mortality and morbidity worldwide. Many treatment modalities have been experimented with limited success. Therefore, the traditional system of medicine needs to be explored. Objective To evaluate the benefits of Unani regimensTiryaq-e-Arba and Unani Joshanda, as adjuvant therapy, were compared to standard treatment alone among reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR)-confirmed mild to moderate COVID-19 cases. Materials and methods An open-label, double-arm, randomized, controlled interventional clinical study was conducted among 90 RT-PCR-confirmed mild to moderate COVID-19 inpatients admitted to a tertiary care hospital in New Delhi, India. Participants who fulfilled the criteria for inclusion were randomly assigned to two arms, with 43 subjects allocated to the Unani add-on arm and 47 subjects to the control arm receiving standard treatment alone. Results Clinical recovery was achieved in all patients of the Unani arm, while in the control arm, three (6.4%) patients deteriorated and had to be shifted to ICU following admission. In the intervention arm, a shorter duration of hospitalization was observed (mean 5.95 days {SD = 1.99}) than in the control arm (mean 7.62 days {SD, 4.06}); which was a statistically significant difference (p-value 0.017). The majority of the patients recovered within 10 days in the Unani add-on arm. The number of days taken for the reduction of symptoms was significantly less in the intervention arm (mean 5.14 days {SD, 2.39}) as compared with standard treatment (mean 6.53 days {SD, 3.06}) (p < 0.02). Renal and liver safety parameters were within the normal limits in both arms and no serious adverse event was reported. Conclusion Adding Unani formulations to standard treatment significantly reduced the duration of hospital stay and showed early recovery in COVID-19 patients compared with the control arm. It may be concluded that the synergistic effect of the Unani add-on with standard treatment gave more promising results in mild to moderate COVID-19 patients.

Quality by design-based capillary electrophoresis method development for the quantitative analysis of four iridoid compounds in Gentiana macrophylla Radix

In this study, the capillary electrophoresis-photodiode array detector was employed for the analysis of four iridoid compounds in Gentiana macrophylla Radix (RGM), and the method was optimized based on the concept of analytical quality by design (AQbD). The peak areas relative standard deviation (n = 3) and resolution of the four analytes were selected as critical method attributes. Fractional factorial design test combined with Pareto analysis were employed to screen critical method parameters (buffer concentration, pH, sodium dodecyl sulfate [SDS] micelle concentration, temperature, and voltage). Subsequently, three main factors (buffer concentration, buffer pH, and SDS concentration) were selected by central composite design test for constructing the design space. The optimal separation conditions as follows: capillary column (50.2 cm ×m50 µm, detection length 40 cm). Working background electrolyte consisted of 51 mmol/L borax solution (pH = 9.47) and 40 mmol/L SDS. The samples were injected by pressure (5 s at 0.5 psi) and the detection was performed at 254 nm. Applied voltage was 20 kV and column temperature was 23°C. The developed method is rapid and reliable for the quantitative analysis of four iridoid compounds in RGM, providing a reference for the application of AQbD concept in the analysis of natural products.

The healing bitterness of Gentiana lutea L., phytochemistry and biological activities: A systematic review

Over many years, natural products have been a source of healing agents and have exhibited beneficial uses for treating human diseases. The Gentiana genus is the biggest genus in the Gentianaceae, with over 400 species distributed mainly in alpine zones of temperate countries around the world. Plants in the Gentiana genus have historically been used to treat a wide range of diseases. Still, only in the last years has particular attention been paid to the biological activities of Gentiana lutea Linn., also known as yellow Gentian or bitterwort. Several in vitro/vivo investigations and human interventional trials have demonstrated the promising activity of G. lutea extracts against oxidative stress, microbial infections, inflammation, obesity, atherosclerosis, etc.. A systematic approach was performed using Pubmed and Scopus databases to update G. lutea chemistry and activity. Specifically, this systematic review synthesized the major specialized bitter metabolites and the biological activity data obtained from different cell lines, animal models, and human interventional trials. This review aims to the exaltation of G. lutea as a source of bioactive compounds that can prevent and treat several human illnesses.

Anti-Osteoarthritic Effects of Prunella Vulgaris and Gentiana Lutea In Vitro and In Vivo

Osteoarthritis (OA) is the progressive destruction of articular cartilage with severe symptoms, including pain and stiffness. We investigated the anti-osteoarthritic effects of Prunella vulgaris (PV) and Gentiana lutea (GL) extract in primary cultured chondrocytes RAW 264.7 cells in vitro and destabilization of the medial meniscus (DMM)-induced OA mice in vivo. Primary chondrocytes were induced with IL-1β, and RAW 264.7 cells were treated with LPS and co-incubated with either individual extracts of PV and GL or different ratios of PV and GL mixture. For the OA animal model, the medial meniscus (DMM) was destabilized in 9-week-old male C57BL/6 mice. Treatment of individual PV and GL and combination of PV and GL extracts inhibited the mRNA expression level of COX2 in chondrocytes and RAW 264.7 cells. The optimized inhibitory effect was attained with a PV and GL combination at an 8:2 ratio (PG) without cytotoxic effects. PG extracts prevented the expression of catabolic factors (COX2, Mmp3, Mmp9, and Mmp13) and inflammatory mediator levels (PGE2 and collagenase). In addition, PG decreased subchondral sclerosis and increased BMD in the subchondral region of DMM-induced OA mice with protection of articular cartilage destruction by inhibiting inflammatory processes. This study suggests that PG may be an alternative medicinal herb for treatment of OA.

Simultaneous Quantitative Analysis of the Major Bioactive Compounds in Gentianae Radix and its Beverages by UHPSFC-DAD

This study presents the first ultra-high performance supercritical fluid chromatography-diode array detector (UHPSFC-DAD) assay for simultaneous quantitation of secoiridoids, iridoids, xanthones, and xanthone glycosides in Gentiana lutea L. Separation was reached within 12 min on an Acquity UPC2 BEH 2-EP column using CO2 and methanol with 5.5% water as mobile phases. Method validation for nine selected marker compounds (gentisin, isogentisin, swertiamarin, sweroside, gentiopicroside, loganic acid, amarogentin, gentioside, and its isomer) confirmed the assay's sensitivity, linearity, precision, and accuracy. The practical applicability was proven by the analysis of 13 root specimens and 10 commercial liquid preparations (seven liqueurs and three clear spirits). In all root batches, the secoiridoid gentiopicroside dominated (2.1-5.6%) clearly over all other metabolites. In the liqueurs, the metabolite content and distribution were extremely variable: while gentiopicroside was the main compound in four liqueurs, sweroside dominated in one preparation and loganic acid in two others. In contrast, measurable amounts of the metabolites were not detected in any of the examined clear spirits.

Anti-Inflammatory Effects of Phytochemical Components of Clinacanthus nutans

Recent studies on the ethnomedicinal use of Clinacanthus nutans suggest promising anti-inflammatory, anti-tumorigenic, and antiviral properties for this plant. Extraction of the leaves with polar and nonpolar solvents has yielded many C-glycosyl flavones, including schaftoside, isoorientin, orientin, isovitexin, and vitexin. Aside from studies with different extracts, there is increasing interest to understand the properties of these components, especially regarding their ability to exert anti-inflammatory effects on cells and tissues. A major focus for this review is to obtain information on the effects of C. nutans extracts and its phytochemical components on inflammatory signaling pathways in the peripheral and central nervous system. Particular emphasis is placed on their role to target the Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4)-NF-kB pathway and pro-inflammatory cytokines, the antioxidant defense pathway involving nuclear factor erythroid-2-related factor 2 (NRF2) and heme oxygenase 1 (HO-1); and the phospholipase A₂ (PLA₂) pathway linking to cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) and production of eicosanoids. The ability to provide a better understanding of the molecular targets and mechanism of action of C. nutans extracts and their phytochemical components should encourage future studies to develop new therapeutic strategies for better use of this herb to combat inflammatory diseases.

Purine nucleotide depletion prompts cell migration by stimulating the serine synthesis pathway

Purine nucleotides are necessary for various biological processes related to cell proliferation. Despite their importance in DNA and RNA synthesis, cellular signaling, and energy-dependent reactions, the impact of changes in cellular purine levels on cell physiology remains poorly understood. Here, we find that purine depletion stimulates cell migration, despite effective reduction in cell proliferation. Blocking purine synthesis triggers a shunt of glycolytic carbon into the serine synthesis pathway, which is required for the induction of cell migration upon purine depletion. The stimulation of cell migration upon a reduction in intracellular purines required one-carbon metabolism downstream of de novo serine synthesis. Decreased purine abundance and the subsequent increase in serine synthesis triggers an epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and, in cancer models, promotes metastatic colonization. Thus, reducing the available pool of intracellular purines re-routes metabolic flux from glycolysis into de novo serine synthesis, a metabolic change that stimulates a program of cell migration.

Nucleotides are essential for different biological processes and have been also associated to cancer development. Depleting cellular nucleotides is a strategy commonly employed to target cancers. Here, the authors show that purine depletion induces serine synthesis to promote cancer cell migration and metastasis.

Acute Effects of Kawakawa (Piper excelsum) Intake on Postprandial Glycemic and Insulinaemic Response in a Healthy Population

Background: Piper excelsum (kawakawa) is an endemic shrub of Aotearoa, New Zealand, of cultural and medicinal importance to Māori. Its fruits and leaves are often consumed. These tissues contain several compounds that have been shown to be biologically active and which may underpin its putative health-promoting effects. The current study investigates whether kawakawa tea can modulate postprandial glucose metabolism. Methods: We report a pilot three-arm randomized crossover study to assess the bioavailability of kawakawa tea (BOKA-T) in six male participants with each arm having an acute intervention of kawakawa tea (4 g/250 mL water; 1 g/250 mL water; water) and a follow-up two-arm randomized crossover study to assess the impact of acute kawakawa tea ingestion on postprandial glucose metabolism in healthy human volunteers (TOAST) (4 g/250 mL water; and water; n = 30 (15 male and 15 female)). Participants consumed 250 mL of kawakawa tea or water control within each study prior to consuming a high-glycemic breakfast. Pre- and postprandial plasma glucose and insulin concentrations were measured, and the Matsuda index was calculated to measure insulin sensitivity. Results: In the BOKA-T study, lower plasma glucose (p < 0.01) and insulin (p < 0.01) concentrations at 60 min were observed after consumption of a high-dose kawakawa tea in comparison to low-dose or water. In the TOAST study, only plasma insulin (p = 0.01) was lower at 60 min in the high-dose kawakawa group compared to the control group. Both studies showed a trend towards higher insulin sensitivity in the high-dose kawakawa group compared to water only. Conclusions: Consuming kawakawa tea may modulate postprandial glucose metabolism. Further investigations with a longer-term intervention study are warranted.

Physicochemical Characterization of the Loganic Acid-IR, Raman, UV-Vis and Luminescence Spectra Analyzed in Terms of Quantum Chemical DFT Approach

The molecular structure and vibrational spectra of loganic acid (LA) were calculated using B3LYP density functional theory, the 6–311G(2d,2p) basis set, and the GAUSSIAN 03W program. The solid-phase FTIR and FT-Raman spectra of LA were recorded in the 100–4000 cm⁻¹ range. The assignment of the observed bands to the respective normal modes was proposed on the basis of the PED approach. The stability of the LA molecule was considered using NBO analysis. The electron absorption and luminescence spectra were measured and discussed in terms of the calculated singlet, triplet, HOMO, and LUMO electron energies. The Stokes shift derived from the optical spectra was 20,915 cm⁻¹.

Genus Gentiana: A review on phytochemistry, pharmacology and molecular mechanism

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

As the largest genus of Gentianaceae family, the Gentiana genus harbors over 400 species, widely distributed in the alpine areas of temperate regions worldwide. Plants from Gentiana genus are traditionally used to treat a wide variety of diseases including easing pain dispelling rheumatism, and treating liver jaundice, chronic pharyngitis and arthritis in China since ancient times. In this review, a systematic and constructive overview of the traditional uses, phytochemistry, molecular mechanisms, toxicology and pharmacological activities of the researched species of genus Gentiana is provided.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The used information in this review is based on various databases (PubMed, Science Direct, Wiley online library, Wanfang Data, Web of Science) through a search using the keyword "Gentiana" in the period of 1981-2019. Besides, other ethnopharmacological information was acquired from Chinese herbal classic books and Chinese pharmacopoeia 2015 edition.

RESULTS

The plants from Gentiana genus have a long tradition of various medicinal uses in Europe and Asia. Phytochemical studies showed that the main bioactive components isolated from this genus includes iridoids xanthones and flavonoids. These compounds and extracts isolated from this genus show a wide range of protective activities including hepatic protection, gastrointestinal protection, cardiovascular protection, immunomodulation, joint protection, pulmonary protection, bone protection and reproductive protection. Molecular mechanism studies also indicated several potential therapeutic targets in the treatment of certain diseases by plants from this genus. Besides, natural products from this plant show no significant animal toxicity, cytotoxicity or genotoxicity.

CONCLUSION

This review summarized the traditional medicinal uses, phytochemistry, pharmacology, toxicology and molecular mechanism of genus Gentiana, providing references and research tendency for plant-based drug development and further clinical studies.

Yellow gentian root extract provokes concentration- and time-dependent response in peripheral blood mononuclear cells

Yellow gentian (Gentiana lutea L.), a medicinal plant widely used in traditional medicine, displays multiple biological effects, ranging from beneficial to toxic. Since many promising applications have been reported so far, our aim was to evaluate its potential concentration- and time- dependent cytotoxic and genotoxic effects in vitro. To that end we exposed human peripheral blood mononuclear cells to 0.5, 1, and 2 mg/mL of yellow gentian root extract (YGRE) to determine its effects on oxidative stress parameters [pro/antioxidant balance (PAB) and lipid peroxidation], DNA damage (alkaline comet assay and chromosome aberrations), and cell viability (trypan blue exclusion test). Cell viability decreased with increasing concentrations and treatment duration. Only the lowest YGRE concentration (0.5 mg/mL) increased oxidative stress but produced minor DNA damage and cytotoxicity. At higher concentrations, redox parameters returned to near control values. The percentage of chromosome aberrations and percentage of DNA in the comet tail increased with increased YGRE concentration after 48 h and declined after 72 h of treatment. This points to the activation of DNA repair mechanism (homologous recombination), evidenced by the formation of chromosomal radial figures after 72 h of treatment with the highest YGRE concentration of 2 mg/mL. Our results suggest that YGRE, despite induction of cytotoxic and genotoxic effects, activates cell repair mechanisms that counter oxidative and DNA lesions and induce cell death in highly damaged cells. Therefore, observed protective effects of yellow gentian after longer exposure could be a result of activated repair and removal of cells with irreparable damage.

Isovitexin modulates autophagy in Alzheimer's disease via miR-107 signalling

Background:

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is an ultimately fatal, degenerative brain disease in the elderly people. In the current work, we assessed the defensive capability of isovitexin (IVX) through an intracerebroventricular injection of streptozotocin (STZ)-induced AD mouse model.

Methods:

Mice were separated into four cohorts: sham-operated control mice; STZ-intoxicated Alzheimer’s mice; IVX cohort, IVX + STZ; and Ant-107 cohort, antagomiR-107 + IVX/STZ as in the IVX cohort.

Results:

The outcomes indicated that IVX administration ameliorated spatial memory loss and blunted a cascade of neuro-noxious episodes – including increased amyloid-beta (Aβ) and degraded myelin basic protein burden, neuroinflammation (represented by elevated caspase-1, TNF-α and IL-6 levels) and autophagic dysfunction (represented by altered LC3-II, Atg7 and beclin-1 expressions) – via the inhibition of PI3K/Akt/mTOR signalling axis. We considered the question of whether the epigenetic role of microRNA-107 (miR-107) has any impact on these events, by using antagomiR-107.

Conclusion:

This probing underscored that miR-107 could be a pivotal regulatory button in the activation of molecular signals linked with the beneficial autophagic process and anti-inflammatory activities in relation to IVX treatment. Hence, this report exemplifies that IVX could guard against Aβ toxicity and serve as an effectual treatment for patients afflicted with AD.

Loganic Acid, an Iridoid Glycoside Extracted from Cornus mas L. Fruits, Reduces of Carbonyl/Oxidative Stress Biomarkers in Plasma and Restores Antioxidant Balance in Leukocytes of Rats with Streptozotocin-Induced Diabetes Mellitus

The various complications related to diabetes are due to the alteration in plasma components and functional activity of blood cells, hence the search for preventive remedies that would ameliorate the clinical condition of patients is a relevant problem today. The main aim of the present study was to examine the antidiabetic potency and antioxidant effects of loganic acid (LA) in blood of diabetic rats. LA showed a restoration of balance between functioning of antioxidant defense system and oxidative stress in leukocytes without notable effects on blood glucose levels when administered orally to rats (20 mg/kg b.w./day) for 14 days. LA ameliorated antioxidant status in leukocytes, as indicated by increasing the content of reduced glutathione and activities of catalase, glutathione peroxidase and glutathione reductase along with decreasing levels of intracellular reactive oxygen species. In addition, we observed the ability of LA to protect against formation and accumulation of glycation and oxidation protein products and malondialdehyde derivates in plasma. Therefore, LA showed antioxidant properties that may have beneficial effects under diabetes. Such results may represent LA as one of the plant components in the development of new drugs that will correct metabolic and functional disorders in leukocytes under diabetes.

Traditional Use of Medicinal Plants in South-Eastern Serbia (Pčinja District): Ethnopharmacological Investigation on the Current Status and Comparison With Half a Century Old Data

Balkan Peninsula is one of the most important biodiversity centers in Europe. Despite that, the usage of plant species in the traditional medicine of some Balkan regions remained largely unexplored in the past. This study aimed to collect and document data on the traditional use of medicinal plants in Pčinja district in South-Eastern Serbia, which is among the least developed regions in Serbia. Also, comparison with data collected by Dr. Jovan Tucakov, in a book called Herbal therapy was conducted. The survey was carried out using semi-structured interviews and 113 informants were interviewed. Quantitative ethnobotany factors were calculated, allowing us discussing the results. The informants reported data on 86 medicinal plants belonging to 43 families in Pčinja district. Lamiaceae, Asteraceae, and Rosaceae were the dominant locally used families. The species with the highest number of use reports were Mentha piperita, Matricaria chamomilla, and Hypericum perforatum. Gastrointestinal ailments, respiratory problems and skin diseases were the most frequently reported indications. Usually, the administration was primarily oral followed by topical applications. Leaves were dominantly exploited plant parts and the most frequent preparation form was infusion. Medicinal plants in Pčinja district are mainly used as a mode of primary health care for treating minor health issues. After comparing our results with the ones collected half a century ago by Dr. Jovan Tucakov we can conclude that plant species mentioned in our investigation previously had a much wider spectrum of application.

The Potential of Anti-Diabetic Rākau Rongoā (Māori Herbal Medicine) to Treat Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM) Mate Huka: A Review

T2DM (type 2 diabetes mellitus, or Māori term “mate huka”) is a major long-term health issue in New Zealand particularly among the Māori community. Non-insulin drugs commonly used in New Zealand for the treatment of T2DM have limits to their efficacy as well as side effects, which are of concern for diabetics. As such, the potential for natural products such as traditional rākau rongoā are of interest for potentially preventing the development of T2DM or improving the treatment of the disease. In particular, anti-diabetic effects have been reported for rākau rongoā such as karamu, kūmarahou, and kawakawa. Natural products have been identified in karamu, kūmarahou, and kawakawa that have documented potential effects on glucose metabolism that could contribute to the anti-diabetic effect of these rākau rongoā. As such, this could provide scientific insight into the mātauranga (traditional knowledge) developed over generations by Māori. However, detailed laboratory based and clinical studies would be required to understand and validate these properties of karamu, kūmarahou, and kawakawa, and to understand how they can be used in T2DM treatment. Social determinants of indigenous health such as language, culture, traditional knowledge, and identity, are important in understanding the relationship Māori have with their land and the mātauranga they developed of the medicinal properties within their rākau rongoā, over many centuries. Interestingly, traditional Māori views towards scientific research using animal models to test rākau rongoā are varied but supportive. Furthermore, cultural issues surrounding Māori mana motuhake (self-determination) of traditional rongoā Māori healing practices and the inequity faced by many kairongoā (rongoā Māori practitioners) and tohunga (healers) compared to mainstream health are a current issue within the New Zealand health system. As such, a cultural holistic approach for T2DM care among Māori would be advantageous. This review will outline the available evidence supporting the anti-diabetic efficacy of karamu, kūmarahou, and kawakawa. Currently though there is a lack of molecular research to understand the mechanisms of this efficacy, as such this review will also outline Te Reo Tipu Research, a kaupapa Māori framework for molecular and genomic research on taonga flora.

Antiobesity Effects of Gentiana lutea Extract on 3T3-L1 Preadipocytes and a High-Fat Diet-Induced Mouse Model

Obesity is one of the most common metabolic diseases resulting in metabolic syndrome. In this study, we investigated the antiobesity effect of Gentiana lutea L. (GL) extract on 3T3-L1 preadipocytes and a high-fat-diet (HFD)-induced mouse model. For the induction of preadipocytes into adipocytes, 3T3-L1 cells were induced by treatment with 0.5 mM 3-isobutyl-1-methylxanthine, 1 mM dexamethasone, and 1 μg/mL insulin. Adipogenesis was assessed based on the messenger ribonucleic acid expression of adipogenic-inducing genes (adiponectin (Adipoq), CCAAT/enhancer-binding protein alpha (Cebpa), and glucose transporter type 4 (Slc2a4)) and lipid accumulation in the differentiated adipocytes was visualized by Oil Red O staining. In vivo, obese mice were induced with HFD and coadministered with 100 or 200 mg/kg/day of GL extract for 12 weeks. GL extract treatment inhibited adipocyte differentiation by downregulating the expression of adipogenic-related genes in 3T3-L1 cells. In the obese mouse model, GL extract prevented HFD-induced weight gain, fatty hepatocyte deposition, and adipocyte size by decreasing the secretion of leptin and insulin. In conclusion, GL extract shows antiobesity effects in vitro and in vivo, suggesting that this extract can be beneficial in the prevention of obesity.

Protective effects of phenolic acid extract from ginseng on vascular endothelial cell injury induced by palmitate via activation of PI3K/Akt/eNOS pathway

Elevated free fatty acids may impair insulin-mediated signaling to eNOS that contributes to the pathophysiology of endothelial dysfunction. Previous studies have indicated the protective effect of ginseng and the regulatory potential of phenolic acid components from other plants on endothelial function. Therefore, this study investigated the protective effects of phenolic acid extract from ginseng (PG2) on endothelial cells against palmitate-induced damage. We found that PG2 increases cell viability, inhibits the palmitate-induced intracellular accumulation of lipids, and the overexpression of endothelin-1 (ET-1) through enhancing the phosphorylation of the phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase/Akt/endothelial nitric oxide synthase (PI3K/Akt/eNOS) signaling pathway. The results of this study may be valuable for the development of PG2 to combat the endothelial cell damage caused by hyperlipidemia. PRACTICAL APPLICATION: We proved that phenolic acid extract from ginseng has a protective effect on free fatty acid-induced endothelial dysfunction in vitro. This study provides experimental data for the application of ginseng-derived phenolic acids in treating cardiovascular disease.

Effects of phytochemicals on cellular signaling: reviewing their recent usage approaches

Most of the previous studies in last three decades report evidence of interactions between the different phytochemicals and the proteins involved in signal transduction pathways using in silico, in vitro, ex vivo, and in vivo analyses. However, extrapolation of these findings for clinical purposes has not been that fruitful. The efficacy of the phytochemicals in vivo studies is limited by parameters such as solubility, metabolic degradation, excretion, etc. Various approaches have now been devised to circumvent these limitations. Recently, chemical modification of the phytochemicals are demonstrated to reduce some of the limitations and improve their efficacy. Similar to traditional medicines several combinatorial phytochemical formulations have shown to be more efficient. Further, phytochemicals have been reported to be even more efficient in the form of nanoparticles. However, systematic evaluation of their efficacy, mode of action in pathway modulation, usage and associated challenges is required to be done. The present review begins with basic understanding of how signaling cascades regulate cellular response and the consequences of their dysregulation further summarizing the developments and problems associated with the dietary phytochemicals and also discuss recent approaches in strengthening these compounds in pharmacological applications. Only context relevant studies have been reviewed. Considering the limitations and scope of the article, authors do not claim inclusion of all the early and recent studies.

Potential of Gentiana lutea for the Treatment of Obesity-associated Diseases

BACKGROUND

Obesity, diabetes, and associated diseases are increasing all over the world, and pose a great burden on public health. According to the latest reports, 440 million people are suffering from diabetes. Diabetes is caused by impaired ability to produce or respond to the hormone insulin consequently resulting in hyperglycemia.

METHODS

Data used for this review was obtained by using PUBMED/MEDLINE (1987-2018). The main data search terms were: Gentiana lutea, Gentiana lutea extract, Gentiana lutea constituents, obesity, diabetes mellitus, diabetic complications.

RESULTS

In the present review, we describe the potential of root powder of yellow gentian (Gentiana lutea) for the prevention of obesity and diabetes including complications related to this disease.

CONCLUSION

Reasonably effective, low-cost alternatives could fulfill an important role for a large part of the human population and could be of great value for the food market. Even a modest reduction of morbidity and mortality with respect to this disease translates into millions of lives saved.

Antiadipogenic Effects of Loganic Acid in 3T3-L1 Preadipocytes and Ovariectomized Mice

Obesity is caused by an excess storage of body fat, resulting from a chronic imbalance between energy intake and expenditure. Gentiana lutea L. (GL) root has been reported to reduce lipid accumulation in the aortic wall of diabetic rats. Here, we performed fractionation and isolation of the bioactive constituent(s) that may be responsible for the antiadipogenic effects of the GL root extract. A single compound, loganic acid, was identified as a candidate component in the 30% ethanol extract of GL. Loganic acid treatment significantly decreased the adipocyte differentiation of 3T3-L1 preadipocytes in a dose-dependent manner. The expression of key adipogenesis-related genes such as adiponectin (Adipoq), peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (Pparg), lipoprotein lipase (Lpl), perilipin1 (Plin1), fatty acid binding protein 4 (Fabp4), glucose transporter type 4 (Slc2a4), CCAAT/enhancer-binding protein alpha (Cebpa), and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (Tnf) were significantly reduced following treatment with loganic acid. In vivo experiments in an ovariectomy-induced obesity mouse model showed that loganic acid (oral administration with 10 and 50 mg/kg/day) significantly inhibited body weight gain, total fat increase, fatty hepatocyte deposition in the liver, and adipocyte enlargement in the abdominal visceral fat tissues. These results suggest that loganic acid in the GL root extract has antiadipogenic effects in vitro and in vivo. Loganic acid may be beneficial for the prevention and treatment of obesity, particularly in menopausal obese women.

Analytical Methods of Phytochemicals from the Genus Gentiana

The genus Gentiana comprises approximately 400 species. Many species have a wide range of pharmacological activities and have been used therapeutically for thousands of years. To provide comprehensive guidance, utilization and quality control of Gentiana species, this review presents updated information concerning the recent application and progress of chemical analysis including phytochemical analysis, sample preparation and chemometrics. Detailed and comprehensive data including number of analytes, extraction/separation methods, analytical techniques and chemometrics are shown as corresponding tables. These data illustrate that the development of newly discovered compounds and therapeutic uses, understanding of the structure-activity relationship and establishment of harmonious and effective medicinal herb standards are the direction of advancement in future research.

Anti-atherosclerotic effect of Longxuetongluo Capsule in high cholesterol diet induced atherosclerosis model rats

Chinese dragon's blood, the red resin of Dracaena cochinchinensis, one of the famous traditional medicines, has been used to promote blood circulation, disperse blood stasis, stop bleeding, relieve pain and muscle regeneration for thousands of years. The aims of this study were to evaluate the anti-atherosclerotic effect of Longxuetongluo Capsule (LTC), which made by total phenolic compounds of Chinese dragon's blood, in high cholesterol diet (HCD)-induced atherosclerosis model rats and explore the possible mechanism. Atherosclerosis rats were induced by administration of HCD for 4 weeks and treated with atorvastatin (2.08mg/kg/d) or various concentrations of LTC (81, 162 and 324mg/kg/d) for additional 4 weeks. Body weight (BW), lipid profiles, serum VCAM-1, ICAM-1, MCP-1, AST and ALT were then tested. Histopathological evaluation of aorta and liver were determined by hematoxylin and eosin staining. NF-κB expression in aorta was detected by Immunohistochemical staining. Meanwhile, the inhibition effects of LTC on the migration and proliferation and Intracellular Ca²⁺ levels induced by PDGF-BB were also evaluated in rat aortic smooth muscle cells (A7r5). The results demonstrated that LTC produced a significant anti-atherosclerotic activity in terms of reduction in serum lipids and lipoprotein profile, VCAM-1, ICAM-1, MCP-1, AST, ALT levels, and increase in HDL-c level compared to atherosclerotic group. Rats treated with LTC not only attenuated the pathological region and atheroma formation, but also reduced hepatic steatosis and inflammatory cell infiltration. Immunohistochemical analysis showed LTC reduced NF-κB expression in aorta. Furthermore, PDGF-BB induced proliferation and migration of A7r5 and intracellular calcium rise were also abrogated by LTC. The results indicate that LTC prevents atherosclerosis and fatty liver by controlling lipid metabolism, the underlying mechanism may attributed to its anti-inflammation activity, regulation of the vascular smooth muscle function and intracellular calcium signaling.