1
|
Babu V, Ahamed JI, Paul A, Ali S, Rather IA, Sabir JSM. Assessing Spectral Analysis of Phytoconstituents and Their In Silico Interactions with Target Proteins in Plant Seed Extracts. PLANTS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2023; 12:3352. [PMID: 37836092 PMCID: PMC10574034 DOI: 10.3390/plants12193352] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2023] [Revised: 09/13/2023] [Accepted: 09/19/2023] [Indexed: 10/15/2023]
Abstract
The pharmacological and preventive attributes of extracts from vegetable seeds have garnered widespread recognition within the scientific community. This study systematically assessed the in vitro antibacterial, antioxidant, and anti-breast cancer properties of phytochemicals present in various solvent-based vegetable seed extracts. We also conducted molecular docking simulations to ascertain their interactions with specific target proteins. Besides, nine distinct chemical constituents were identified using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GCMS). Remarkably, the ethyl acetate extract exhibited robust inhibitory effects against Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacterial strains. Furthermore, its capacity for 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) scavenging was found to be noteworthy, with an IC50 value of 550.82 ± 1.7 µg/mL, representing a scavenging efficiency of 64.1 ± 2.8%. Additionally, the ethyl acetate extract demonstrated significant hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) scavenging activity, with a maximal scavenging rate of 44.1 ± 1.70% (IC50) at a concentration of 761.17 ± 1.8 µg/mL. Intriguingly, in vitro cytotoxicity assays against human breast cancer (MCF-7) cells revealed varying levels of cell viability at different extract concentrations, suggesting potential anticancer properties. Importantly, these ethyl acetate extracts did not display toxicity to L929 cells across the concentration range tested. Subsequently, we conducted in-silico molecular docking experiments utilizing Discovery Studio 4.0 against the c-Met kinase protein (hepatocyte growth factor; PDB ID: 1N0W). Among the various compounds assessed, 3,4-Dihydroxy-1,6-bis-(3-methoxy-phenyl)-hexa-2,4-diene-1,6-dione exhibited a notable binding energy of -9.1 kcal/mol, warranting further investigation into its potential anticancer properties, clinical applications, and broader pharmacological characteristics.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Venkatadri Babu
- Department of Plant Biology and Biotechnology, Loyola College (Autonomous), Affiliated to University of Madras, Chennai 600034, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - J Irshad Ahamed
- Department of Chemistry, Loyola College (Autonomous), Affiliated to University of Madras, Chennai 600034, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Agastian Paul
- Department of Plant Biology and Biotechnology, Loyola College (Autonomous), Affiliated to University of Madras, Chennai 600034, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Sajad Ali
- Department of Biotechnology, Yeungnam University, Gyeongsan-si 385541, Gyeongbuk, Republic of Korea
| | - Irfan A. Rather
- Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, King Abdulaziz University (KAU), Jeddah 21589, Saudi Arabia
| | - Jamal S. M. Sabir
- Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, King Abdulaziz University (KAU), Jeddah 21589, Saudi Arabia
- Centre of Excellence in Bionanoscience Research, King Abdulaziz University (KAU), Jeddah 21589, Saudi Arabia
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Meizi-Consuming Culture That Fostered the Sustainable Use of Plum Resources in Dali of China: An Ethnobotanical Study. BIOLOGY 2022; 11:biology11060832. [PMID: 35741353 PMCID: PMC9220204 DOI: 10.3390/biology11060832] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2022] [Revised: 05/17/2022] [Accepted: 05/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Prunus mume has been cultivated for more than three millennia with important edible, ornamental, and medicinal value. Due to its sour taste, the Prunus mume fruit (called Meizi in Chinese and Ume in Japanese) is not very popular compared to other fruits. It is, however, a very favorite food for the Bai people living in Eryuan County, Dali of Yunnan, China. The local people are masters of making various local products with plum in different ways. In this research, we conducted field investigations in Eryuan County using ethnobotanical methods from August 2019 to July 2021, focusing on the Prunus mume (for its edible fruits). A total of 76 key informants participated in our semi-structured interviews. The survey recorded 37 species (and varieties) belonging to 11 families related to the Bai people’s Meizi-consuming culture. Among them, there are 14 taxa of plum resources, including one original species and 13 varieties. These 37 species are either used as substitutes for plum due to their similar taste or as seasonings to improve the sour taste of plum. The higher Cultural Food Significance Index value implies that Prunus mume, Chaenomeles speciosa, Phyllanthus emblica, Prunus salicina, and Chaenomeles cathayensis have high acceptance and use value in the Bai communities. Among the various local products traditionally made by the Bai people, carved plums, preserved plums, perilla-wrapped plums, and stewed plums are the most famous and popular categories in the traditional markets. Currently, the plum business based on the traditional Meizi-consuming culture of the Bai people is already one of Eryuan’s economic pillars. This study showed that plums play an important role in expressing the local cultural diversity, and they also help the local people by improving their livelihood through their edible value. In turn, for the sustainable use of plum resources, the Bai people positively manage local forests through a series of measures to protect the diversity of plum resources and related plant communities.
Collapse
|
3
|
Berlowitz I, O'Shaughnessy DM, Heinrich M, Wolf U, Maake C, Martin-Soelch C. Teacher plants - Indigenous Peruvian-Amazonian dietary practices as a method for using psychoactives. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2022; 286:114910. [PMID: 34933085 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2021.114910] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2021] [Revised: 11/30/2021] [Accepted: 12/08/2021] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Indigenous groups of the Amazon have developed intricate methods for the application of psychoactives, among which particularly the dieta or diet method of Peruvian-Amazonian traditional medicine stands out. It is a retreat-like intervention involving lengthy periods of social, behavioural, and alimentary restrictions, while ingesting specially prepared plant substances. The interplay of the dietary conditions and plants ingested sensitizes the dieter to receive healing, strength, guidance, and knowledge. From a clinical scientific point of view, the method has remained largely underexplored, but seems more pertinent than ever given the increasing interest in Amazonian psychoactive preparations including ayahuasca (Banisteriopsis caapi) and the burgeoning field of psychedelic-assisted therapies in general. AIM OF THE STUDY This study offers a descriptive account and emic interpretation of the Peruvian-Amazonian dieta. More specifically we document in detail the procedure, its context and purpose of application, effects, modes of action, adverse effects, and risks, from the perspectives of a sample of Peruvian traditional healers. The Peruvian-Amazonian dieta is a multi-purpose method for making use of medicinal plants, many of which (but not all), are psychoactive; the current work especially focuses on its therapeutic applications in conjunction with psychoactives. METHODS We interviewed 16 healers working in the Ucayali, San Martín, and Loreto provinces of Peru using a semi-structured interview approach. Interviews were audio-recorded and transcribed verbatim. The extensive data derived from these interviews were analysed by means of computer-assisted manifest qualitative content analysis using a theory-advancing approach. Over 500 coded text segments were categorized, resulting in 7 main theme clusters and corresponding sub-themes. RESULTS The interviewed healers described a complex intervention with multifaceted applications (treatment, prevention, training) and effects in various domains (body, mind, spirit, energy). The process was portrayed as transformative, with benefits attributed to the effects of the so-called teacher plants in conjunction with the diet's conditions, along with the skill of the healer guiding the intervention. Further, a detailed risk assessment revealed sophisticated safety measures and tools designed to address adverse responses. The importance of adequate training of the healer that administers the diet was particularly highlighted in this context. CONCLUSIONS The dieta is a central therapeutic concept and tool in Peruvian-Amazonian traditional medicine and a unique method for using psychoactive plants. Multidisciplinary health research that includes traditional treatment methods from Indigenous cultures, Amazonian and other, should not be neglected in the current global interest in psychedelic therapies; such research may in the long-term contribute to a more inclusive psychedelic research paradigm as well as healthcare practice in countries where rich traditional healing systems exist, and perhaps beyond. It may also contribute to the recognition of the Indigenous healers as not only historical forerunners, but also current leading experts in psychedelic medicine.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ilana Berlowitz
- Institute of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland; Department of Psychology, University of Fribourg, Fribourg, Switzerland.
| | | | | | - Ursula Wolf
- Institute of Complementary and Integrative Medicine, University of Bern, Switzerland
| | - Caroline Maake
- Institute of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | | |
Collapse
|
4
|
Özenver N, Efferth M, Efferth T. Ethnopharmacology, phytochemistry, chemical ecology and invasion biology of Acanthus mollis L. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2022; 285:114833. [PMID: 34785251 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2021.114833] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2021] [Revised: 11/09/2021] [Accepted: 11/10/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Acanthus mollis L. (Bear's Breeches) is a wide-spread medicinal and ornamental plant and is particularly suited to exemplarily illustrate the diverse aspects of invasion biology by neophytes. Since ancient times, it has been a popular Mediterranean ornamental plant in horticulture and served as model for the decoration of column capitals in architecture. AIM OF THE STUDY In the present review, we aimed to give an overview about ethnopharmacology, phytochemistry, chemical ecology, and invasion biology of A. mollis. Thus, the importance of plantation cultivation in the presence of ecologically problematic species and environmental protection were emphasized. MATERIALS AND METHODS We conducted an extensive literature search via screening PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science, in order to compile the data about A. mollis and its role on invasion biology and thereby attracting attention to the prominence of the horticultural and agricultural cultivation of plant species with a special focus on A. mollis as a model. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION Phytochemical analyses revealed secondary metabolites from the classes of flavonoids, phenols, phenylpropanoids, anthraquinones arylnaphthalene lignans, phytosterols and others. Extracts of A. mollis and isolated phytochemicals not only exert assorted activities including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective in murine and human experimental models, but also act against plant parasites (bacteria, insects, mollusks, fungi), protecting the plant from microbial attack and herbivorous predators. A. mollis has been used in traditional medicine to treat dermatological ailments, gastrointestinal diseases, ulcers and even tumors. Nevertheless, the robustness and rapid growth of A. mollis as well as the global horticultural trade facilitated its invasion into fragile ecosystems of Australia, New Zealand, and several other spots around the globe in Northern Europe (Great Britain), Asia (China, India), South Africa, and South America (Argentina). The release of A. mollis from gardens into the wild represents a considerable danger as invasive species are threatening biodiversity and leading to the extinction of domestic plants in the long run. Likewise, the likelihood of other medicinal plants in terms of invasion biology are needed to be fully recognized and discussed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nadire Özenver
- Johannes Gutenberg University, Institute of Pharmaceutical and Biomedical Sciences, Department of Pharmaceutical Biology, 55128, Mainz, Germany; Hacettepe University, Faculty of Pharmacy, Department of Pharmacognosy, 06100, Ankara, Turkey.
| | - Monika Efferth
- Johannes Gutenberg University, Institute of Pharmaceutical and Biomedical Sciences, Department of Pharmaceutical Biology, 55128, Mainz, Germany.
| | - Thomas Efferth
- Johannes Gutenberg University, Institute of Pharmaceutical and Biomedical Sciences, Department of Pharmaceutical Biology, 55128, Mainz, Germany.
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Castro Braga F. Brazilian traditional medicine: Historical basis, features and potentialities for pharmaceutical development. JOURNAL OF TRADITIONAL CHINESE MEDICAL SCIENCES 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jtcms.2020.06.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
|
6
|
Li X, Chen W, Simal-Gandara J, Georgiev MI, Li H, Hu H, Wu X, Efferth T, Wang S. West meets east: open up a dialogue on phytomedicine. Chin Med 2021; 16:57. [PMID: 34281584 PMCID: PMC8287783 DOI: 10.1186/s13020-021-00467-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2021] [Accepted: 07/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The desire to extend the wisdom of traditional health systems has motivated the trade of many phytomedicine on a global scale for centuries, especially some dietary herbs, making a great overlap exits between western and eastern phytomedicine. Despite the communication since ancient times, a key disconnect still exists in the dialog among western and eastern herbal researchers. There is very little systematic effort to tap into the friction and fusion of eastern and western wisdom in utilizing phytomedicine. In this review, we analyzed the similarities and differences of three representative phytomedicine, namely Rhodiola, seabuckthorn, and fenugreek, aiming to open up new horizons in developing novel health products by integrating the wisdom of the east and the west.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xiuzhu Li
- Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, University of Macau, Macao SAR Taipa, China
| | - Weijie Chen
- Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, University of Macau, Macao SAR Taipa, China
| | - Jesus Simal-Gandara
- Nutrition and Bromatology Group, Department of Analytical Chemistry and Food Science, Faculty of Food Science and Technology, University of Vigo-Ourense Campus, 32004 Ourense, Spain
| | - Milen I. Georgiev
- Laboratory of Metabolomics, The Stephan Angeloff Institute of Microbiology, Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, Plovdiv, Bulgaria
| | - Hongyi Li
- Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, University of Macau, Macao SAR Taipa, China
| | - Hao Hu
- Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, University of Macau, Macao SAR Taipa, China
| | - Xu Wu
- Laboratory of Molecular Pharmacology, Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, Sichuan China
| | - Thomas Efferth
- Institute of Pharmaceutical and Biomedical Sciences, Department of Pharmaceutical Biology, Johannes Gutenberg University, Mainz, Germany
| | - Shengpeng Wang
- Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, University of Macau, Macao SAR Taipa, China
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Daley SK, Cordell GA. Natural Products, the Fourth Industrial Revolution, and the Quintuple Helix. Nat Prod Commun 2021. [DOI: 10.1177/1934578x211003029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
The profound interconnectedness of the sciences and technologies embodied in the Fourth Industrial Revolution is discussed in terms of the global role of natural products, and how that interplays with the development of sustainable and climate-conscious practices of cyberecoethnopharmacolomics within the Quintuple Helix for the promotion of a healthier planet and society.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Geoffrey A. Cordell
- Natural Products Inc., Evanston, IL, USA
- Department of Pharmaceutics, College of Pharmacy, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Friso F, Mendive F, Soffiato M, Bombardelli V, Hesketh A, Heinrich M, Menghini L, Politi M. Implementation of Nagoya Protocol on access and benefit-sharing in Peru: Implications for researchers. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2020; 259:112885. [PMID: 32311487 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2020.112885] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2020] [Revised: 04/10/2020] [Accepted: 04/13/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE The Peruvian Amazon holds more than 1000 plant species with commercial potential and the national sales of natural products derived from medicinal and aromatic plants have exceeded $ 400 million per year. Research and development activities carried out on the genetic and biochemical composition of Peruvian flora have to abide by national and international regulations, such as the Nagoya Protocol (NP). AIM OF THE STUDY The aim of this paper is to describe the implications of the current implementation of the NP in Peru for performing research on national genetic resources. MATERIALS AND METHODS A review of the current legal framework and status of the NP in Peru was performed accompanied by first-hand experience undertaken by submitting a request for access to genetic resources related to wild continental species. RESULTS So far, Peru has issued 16 Internationally Recognized Certificates of Compliance (IRCCs) through 2 of the identified National Authorities. Some of the difficulties and challenges observed have to do with the degree of effective implementation of the Access and Benefit-Sharing (ABS) system, the fact that the application process is not sufficiently clear, and the wide gap between this formal system and what occurs informally outside of it. In response to this, training and implementation projects have been launched and a new law on the access to genetic resources has been proposed. CONCLUSIONS The difficulties observed still represent an obstacle to scientific research and the development of new commercial products based on Peruvian traditional knowledge and genetic resources. Although improvements have been made to the ABS framework, there remain major challenges to encouraging and ascertaining the equitable and sustainable use of Peru's biodiversity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Fabio Friso
- Center for Drug Addiction Treatment and Research on Traditional Medicines - Takiwasi, Prolongación Alerta 466, Tarapoto, Peru
| | - Fernando Mendive
- Center for Drug Addiction Treatment and Research on Traditional Medicines - Takiwasi, Prolongación Alerta 466, Tarapoto, Peru
| | - Marco Soffiato
- Center for Drug Addiction Treatment and Research on Traditional Medicines - Takiwasi, Prolongación Alerta 466, Tarapoto, Peru
| | - Valerio Bombardelli
- Legal Department and Agreements, Indena S.p.A., Viale Ortles 12, Milan, Italy
| | - Alan Hesketh
- Indigena Biodiversity Limited, 8 South Park Court, South Park, Gerrards Cross, Bucks, England, UK
| | - Michael Heinrich
- UCL School of Pharmacy, 29-39 Brunswick Square, London, England, UK
| | - Luigi Menghini
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Chieti-Pescara, Via Vestini 31, Chieti Scalo, Italy
| | - Matteo Politi
- Center for Drug Addiction Treatment and Research on Traditional Medicines - Takiwasi, Prolongación Alerta 466, Tarapoto, Peru; Department of Pharmacy, University of Chieti-Pescara, Via Vestini 31, Chieti Scalo, Italy.
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Heinrich M, Scotti F, Andrade-Cetto A, Berger-Gonzalez M, Echeverría J, Friso F, Garcia-Cardona F, Hesketh A, Hitziger M, Maake C, Politi M, Spadafora C, Spadafora R. Access and Benefit Sharing Under the Nagoya Protocol- Quo Vadis? Six Latin American Case Studies Assessing Opportunities and Risk. Front Pharmacol 2020; 11:765. [PMID: 32581783 PMCID: PMC7294742 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2020.00765] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2020] [Accepted: 05/07/2020] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Global challenges related to access and benefit sharing (ABS) of biological resources have become a key concern in the area of research on herbal medicines, ethnopharmacology, drug discovery, and the development of other high value products for which Intellectual Property protection can be secured. While the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD, Rio 1992) has been recognized as a huge step forward, the implementation of the Nagoya Protocol (NP) and of new forms of collaboration often remain unresolved, especially in the context of “the fair and equitable sharing of benefits arising from the utilization of genetic resources” (Convention on Biological Diversity, 2011). The vision and the specific implementation of this international treaty vary from country to country, which poses additional challenges. Aims Using a case study approach, in this analysis we aim at understanding the specific opportunities and challenges for implementing international collaborations regarding ABS in six Latin American countries—Chile, Colombia, Guatemala, México, Panama, and Peru. Based on that analysis, we provide recommendations for the path ahead regarding international collaborations under ABS agreements in ethnopharmacological research. Results and Discussions The implementation of the NP varies in the six countries; and while they are all rich in biodiversity, access and benefit sharing mechanisms differ considerably. There is a need to engage in a consultation process with stakeholders, but this has often come to a halt. Institutional infrastructures to implement national policies are weak, and the level of knowledge about the NP and the CBD within countries remains limited. Conclusions Different policies in the six countries result in very diverse strategies and opportunities relating to the equitable use of biodiversity. A long-term strategy is required to facilitate a better understanding of the treaties and the resulting opportunities for a fairer development and implementation of transparent national polices, which currently differ in the six countries. So far, the benefits envisioned by the CBD and the NP remain unfulfilled for all stakeholders involved including local communities.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Michael Heinrich
- Research Group 'Pharmacognosy and Phytotherapy', UCL School of Pharmacy, University of London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Francesca Scotti
- Research Group 'Pharmacognosy and Phytotherapy', UCL School of Pharmacy, University of London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Adolfo Andrade-Cetto
- Laboratorio de Etnofarmacología, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Monica Berger-Gonzalez
- Centro de Estudios en Salud, Universidad del Valle de Guatemala, Guatemala City, Guatemala
| | - Javier Echeverría
- Departamento de Ciencias del Ambiente, Facultad de Química y Biología, Universidad de Santiago de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Fabio Friso
- Departmento de Investigación, Centro de Rehabilitación de Toxicómanos y de Investigación de Medicinas Tradicionales-Takiwasi, Tarapoto, Peru
| | - Felipe Garcia-Cardona
- Instituto de Investigación de Recursos Biológicos, Alexander von Humboldt, Sede Venado del Oro, Bogotá, Colombia
| | - Alan Hesketh
- Indigena Biodiversity Limited, Gerrards Cross, United Kingdom
| | - Martin Hitziger
- Section of Epidemiology, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Caroline Maake
- Institute of Anatomy, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Matteo Politi
- Departmento de Investigación, Centro de Rehabilitación de Toxicómanos y de Investigación de Medicinas Tradicionales-Takiwasi, Tarapoto, Peru.,Department of Pharmacy, University of Chieti-Pescara, Chieti Scalo, Italy
| | - Carmenza Spadafora
- Centro de Biología Celular y Molecular de Enfermedades (CBCMe), Instituto de Investigaciones Científicas y Servicios de Alta Tecnología (INDICASAT AIP), Panama City, Panamá
| | - Rita Spadafora
- Asociación Nacional de Conservación de la Naturaleza (National Association for the Conservation of Nature), Cd. de Panama City, Panamá
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Heinrich M, Appendino G, Efferth T, Fürst R, Izzo AA, Kayser O, Pezzuto JM, Viljoen A. Best practice in research - Overcoming common challenges in phytopharmacological research. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2020; 246:112230. [PMID: 31526860 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2019.112230] [Citation(s) in RCA: 298] [Impact Index Per Article: 74.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2019] [Accepted: 09/10/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The pharmacology, toxicology and pharmacokinetics of bioactive preparations derived from natural sources has become a flourishing field of research. However, researching complex extracts and natural products faces numerous challenges. More broadly in recent years the critique of pharmacological research, and specifically its design, the methods used and reporting has intensified. AIMS This consensus document provides a perspective on what constitutes best practice in pharmacological research on bioactive preparations derived from natural sources, providing a perspective of what the leading specialist journals in the field consider as the core characteristics of good research. APPROACH ('METHODS') The editors-in-chief of seven journals developed this best practice statement in an iterative process. A first draft of the guidelines (prepared by MH) was then discussed and amended by the other editors. OUTCOMES Core to this contribution is a table which provides detailed advice including simple points like a use of appropriate controls and the full taxonomic validity of the material under investigation (see also below), to the relevance of the model for the question being researched (e.g., can specific in silico or in vitro models really address the species anti-inflammatory activity?). Therefore, obviously, researchers must pay detailed attention to reporting and discussing such studies. This information must be discussed critically (as much as it is possible based on the published papers) in terms of their scientific quality and validity. While these points are obvious, as editors, we are aware that they are often not properly implemented. CONCLUSION We call for an approach which incorporates a careful design, meticulous execution and a detailed reporting of studies focusing on the pharmacology/bioactivity of bioactive preparations. Clearly testable research questions must be developed and investigated experimentally. As the founder of pharmacology Claude Bernard put it already in 1865: '…. either the experimenter's hypothesis will be disproved or it will be proved by experiment. When experiment disproves its preconceived ideas, the experimenter must discard or modify it.'
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Michael Heinrich
- Pharmacognosy and Phytotherapy, UCL School of Pharmacy, 29 - 39 Brunswick Sq., London, WC1N 1AX, UK.
| | - Giovanni Appendino
- Dipartimento di Scienze del Farmaco, Largo Donegani 2, 28100, Novara, Italy.
| | - Thomas Efferth
- Department of Pharmaceutical Biology, Institute of Pharmacy and Biochemistry, Johannes Gutenberg University, Staudinger Weg 5, 55128, Mainz, Germany.
| | - Robert Fürst
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Biology, Faculty of Biochemistry, Chemistry and Pharmacy, Goethe University Frankfurt, Max-von-Laue-Str. 9, 60438, Frankfurt, Germany.
| | - Angelo A Izzo
- Department of Pharmacy, School of Medicine and Surgery, University of Naples Federico II, Via D Montesano 49, Naples, Italy.
| | - Oliver Kayser
- Technical Biochemistry, TU Dortmund University, Emil-Figge-Strasse 66, 44227, Dortmund, Germany.
| | - John M Pezzuto
- Arnold & Marie Schwartz College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, Long Island University, 75 DeKalb Avenue, Brooklyn, NY, USA.
| | - Alvaro Viljoen
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Science, Tshwane University of Technology, Private Bag X680, Pretoria, 0001, South Africa; SAMRC Herbal Drugs Research Unit, Faculty of Science, Tshwane University of Technology, Private Bag X680, Pretoria, 0001, South Africa.
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Heinrich M, Scotti F, Booker A, Fitzgerald M, Kum KY, Löbel K. Unblocking High-Value Botanical Value Chains: Is There a Role for Blockchain Systems? Front Pharmacol 2019; 10:396. [PMID: 31068810 PMCID: PMC6491748 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2019.00396] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2018] [Accepted: 03/29/2019] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Blockchain systems are a fast emerging and a currently widely discussed novel strategy for a decentralized cryptographically enhanced digital ledger recording transactions among stakeholders. This perspective paper looks at its potential uses in the context of high value and mostly low volume botanical material traded globally and used as medicines, health foods, in cosmetics and other applications. We offer a perspective on key areas in the supply of such products globally and how blockchain systems may help in sustainable sourcing, quality assurance, and in tackling supply problems in cases of complex multiherbal preparations. Both open and closed blockchain systems are feasible, and it seems likely that, at least in the initial development, closed ones are the main ones to be utilized. While blockchain’s potential is not yet clear, the examples presented here highlight the opportunities of this new technology.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Michael Heinrich
- Research Group Pharmacognosy and Phytotherapy, UCL School of Pharmacy, London, United Kingdom
| | - Francesca Scotti
- Research Group Pharmacognosy and Phytotherapy, UCL School of Pharmacy, London, United Kingdom
| | - Anthony Booker
- Research Group Pharmacognosy and Phytotherapy, UCL School of Pharmacy, London, United Kingdom.,School of Life Sciences, College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, University of Westminster, London, United Kingdom
| | - Martin Fitzgerald
- School of Life Sciences, College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, University of Westminster, London, United Kingdom
| | - Ka Yui Kum
- Research Group Pharmacognosy and Phytotherapy, UCL School of Pharmacy, London, United Kingdom
| | - Katja Löbel
- Research Group Pharmacognosy and Phytotherapy, UCL School of Pharmacy, London, United Kingdom
| |
Collapse
|