Bioactive steroidal alkaloids from the fruits of Solanum nigrum

Potato Berries as a Valuable Source of Compounds Potentially Applicable in Crop Protection and Pharmaceutical Sectors: A Review

Potato (Solanum tuberosum) is a major agricultural crop cultivated worldwide. To meet market demand, breeding programs focus on enhancing important agricultural traits such as disease resistance and improvement of tuber palatability. However, while potato tubers get a lot of attention from research, potato berries are mostly overlooked due to their level of toxicity and lack of usefulness for the food production sector. Generally, they remain unused in the production fields after harvesting the tuber. These berries are toxic due to high levels of glycoalkaloids, which might confer some interesting bioactivities. Berries of various solanaceous species contain bioactive secondary metabolites, suggesting that potato berries might contain similarly valuable metabolites. Therefore, possible applications of potato berries, e.g., in the protection of plants against pests and pathogens, as well as the medical exploitation of their anti-inflammatory, anticarcinogenic, and antifungal properties, are plausible. The presence of valuable compounds in potato berries could also contribute to the bioeconomy by providing a novel use for otherwise discarded agricultural side streams. Here we review the potential use of these berries for the extraction of compounds that can be exploited to produce pharmaceuticals and plant protection products.

New Solasodine-Type Glycoalkaloids Isolated from Solanum nigrum and Their Cytotoxic Activity

Three undescribed solalodine-type glycoalkaloids, named solanigrinoside A-C (1-3), and six known compounds (4-9) were isolated from the whole plants of Solanum nigrum. Their structures were elucidated based on analysis of HR-ESI-MS, 1D- and 2D-NMR spectral data, and comparison with those reported in literatures. The solanigrinoside A-C (1-3), solasodine (4), and 3-acetoxysolasodine (5) exhibited cytotoxic effects against LU-1, Hep-G2, and MCF-7 cells with IC50 values in range from 4.6 μM to 56.2 μM. Compound 2 showed the significant cytotoxic activity with corresponding IC50 values of 5.7 μM, 7.9 μM, and 4.6 μM, respectively.

Steroidal scaffold decorations in Solanum alkaloid biosynthesis

Steroidal glycoalkaloids (SGAs) are specialized metabolites produced by hundreds of Solanum species, including important vegetable crops such as tomato, potato, and eggplant. Although it has been known that SGAs play important roles in defense in plants and "anti-nutritional" effects (e.g., toxicity and bitterness) to humans, many of these molecules have documented anti-cancer, anti-microbial, anti-inflammatory, anti-viral, and anti-pyretic activities. Among these, α-solasonine and α-solamargine isolated from black nightshade (Solanum nigrum) are reported to have potent anti-tumor, anti-proliferative, and anti-inflammatory activities. Notably, α-solasonine and α-solamargine, along with the core steroidal aglycone solasodine, are the most widespread SGAs produced among the Solanum plants. However, it is still unknown how plants synthesize these bioactive steroidal molecules. Through comparative metabolomic-transcriptome-guided approach, biosynthetic logic, combinatorial expression in Nicotiana benthamiana, and functional recombinant enzyme assays, here we report the discovery of 12 enzymes from S. nigrum that converts the starting cholesterol precursor to solasodine aglycone, and the downstream α-solasonine, α-solamargine, and malonyl-solamargine SGA products. We further identified six enzymes from cultivated eggplant that catalyze the production of α-solasonine, α-solamargine, and malonyl-solamargine SGAs from solasodine aglycone via glycosylation and atypical malonylation decorations. Our work provides the gene tool box and platform for engineering the production of high-value, steroidal bioactive molecules in heterologous hosts using synthetic biology.

Bioactivities and chemical profiling comparison and metabolomic variations of polyphenolics and steroidal glycoalkaloids in different parts of Solanum nigrum L

INTRODUCTION

Solanum nigrum L. is a traditional medicinal herb and edible plant. Many studies provide evidence that S. nigrum L. is a nutritious vegetable. Polyphenols and steroidal glycoalkaloids are the main components.

OBJECTIVES

This study aimed to systemically evaluate the phytochemical profile, quantification, and bioactivities of polyphenolics and glycoalkaloids in different parts of S. nigrum L.

RESULTS

Total polyphenols (TPC) and total glycoalkaloids (TGK) were determined using the Folin-Ciocalteu and acid dye colorimetric methods, respectively. A total of 55 polyphenolic constituents (including 22 phenolic acids and 33 flavonoids) and 24 steroidal glycoalkaloids were identified from different parts using ultrahigh-performance liquid chromatography Q-exactive high-resolution mass spectrometry (UHPLC-QE-HRMS), of which 40 polyphenols (including 15 phenolic acids and 25 flavonoids) and one steroidal glycoalkaloid were characterised for the first time in S. nigrum L. Moreover, typical polyphenols and glycoalkaloids were determined using HPLC-UV and HPLC-evaporative light-scattering detector (ELSD), respectively. In addition, the TPC and TGK and their typical constituents were compared in different anatomical parts. Finally, the antioxidant capacities of polyphenolic extracts from different parts of S. nigrum L. were evaluated by ·OH, 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical scavenging and ferric-reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) assay in vitro. In addition, the antitumour effects of TGK from different parts of S. nigrum L. on the proliferation of PC-3 cells were investigated using 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay. Polyphenolic and glycoalkaloid extracts from different parts of S. nigrum L. showed different antioxidant and cytotoxic capacities in vitro.

CONCLUSION

This is the first study to systematically differentiate between polyphenolic and glycoalkaloid profiles from different parts of S. nigrum L.

Cytotoxic constituents from the fruit of Solanum aculeastrum

A new triterpene, aculeastrumone A (1), a new triterpene saponin aculeastrumoside A (2), and eleven known compounds (3-13) were isolated from MeOH/Water (80/20) extract of the fruits of Solanum aculeastrum (Solanaceae). Their structures were established by detailed 1D and 2D NMR spectroscopic studies and mass spectrometry. The isolated compounds were evaluated against three human cancer cells ((MCF-7 (breast cancer), NCI-H460 (lung cancer), and Hela (cervical cancer)) and normal human fibroblast (BJ) cell lines. Among them, saponins 2-5, 7-8, and Carpesterol 10 possess significant cytotoxic activity with IC50 ≤ 10 µM against the three cancer cell lines.

Active components of Solanum nigrum and their antitumor effects: a literature review

Cancer poses a serious threat to human health and overall well-being. Conventional cancer treatments predominantly encompass surgical procedures and radiotherapy. Nevertheless, the substantial side effects and the emergence of drug resistance in patients significantly diminish their quality of life and overall prognosis. There is an acute need for innovative, efficient therapeutic agents to address these challenges. Plant-based herbal medicines and their derived compounds offer promising potential for cancer research and treatment due to their numerous advantages. Solanum nigrum (S. nigrum), a traditional Chinese medicine, finds extensive use in clinical settings. The steroidal compounds within S. nigrum, particularly steroidal alkaloids, exhibit robust antitumor properties either independently or when combined with other drugs. Many researchers have delved into unraveling the antitumor mechanisms of the active components present in S. nigrum, yielding notable progress. This literature review provides a comprehensive analysis of the research advancements concerning the active constituents of S. nigrum. Furthermore, it outlines the action mechanisms of select monomeric anticancer ingredients. Overall, the insights derived from this review offer a new perspective on the development of clinical anticancer drugs.

Steroidal constituents from Solanum nigrum

Three previously undescribed steroidal constituents including two sterols (1-2) and one pregnane-type steroidal glycoside (6), along with nineteen known ones (3-5, 7-22), were isolated from the 80% alcohol extraction of Solanum nigrum L. Their structures and the absolute configurations were established by analysis of the extensive spectroscopic data (1H/13 NMR, 1H1H COSY, HSQC, HMBC, and NOESY), and/or by comparisons of the experimental electronic circular dichroism (ECD) spectra with those calculated ones by TDDFT method. Further, a MTT assay was applied to demonstrate that compounds 1-4, 6-12, 18, and 22 exhibited significant cytotoxic activities against SW480 cells, and compounds 1-4, 6-14, and 16-22 showed significant cytotoxic activities against Hep3B cells.

The Therapeutic Value of Solanum Steroidal (Glyco)Alkaloids: A 10-Year Comprehensive Review

Steroidal (glycol)alkaloids S(G)As are secondary metabolites made of a nitrogen-containing steroidal skeleton linked to a (poly)saccharide, naturally occurring in the members of the Solanaceae and Liliaceae plant families. The genus Solanum is familiar to all of us as a food source (tomato, potato, eggplant), but a few populations have also made it part of their ethnobotany for their medicinal properties. The recent development of the isolation, purification and analysis techniques have shed light on the structural diversity among the SGAs family, thus attracting scientists to investigate their various pharmacological properties. This review aims to overview the recent literature (2012-2022) on the pharmacological benefits displayed by the SGAs family. Over 17 different potential therapeutic applications (antibiotic, antiviral, anti-inflammatory, etc.) were reported over the past ten years, and this unique review analyzes each pharmacological effect independently without discrimination of either the SGA's chemical identity or their sources. A strong emphasis is placed on the discovery of their biological targets and the subsequent cellular mechanisms, discussing in vitro to in vivo biological data. The therapeutic value and the challenges of the solanum steroidal glycoalkaloid family is debated to provide new insights for future research towards clinical development.

Anti-inflammatory steroids from the stems of Solanum nigrum L

Sixteen previously undescribed steroidal sapogenins along with two known ones were isolated from the stems of Solanum nigrum L. (Solanaceae). Their structures were identified using a combination of 1D and 2D NMR, HR-ESI-MS spectroscopy, the Mosher method, and X-ray diffraction analysis. Compounds 1-8 have an unusual F ring and 9-12 have a derived A ring, both of which are rare skeletons found in natural products. The biological evaluation showed that the isolated steroids exhibited inhibition of nitric oxide in the LPS-induced RAW 264.7 macrophages with IC₅₀ values from 7.4 to 41.3 μM. Further studies revealed that compounds 6 and 10 exhibited anti-inflammatory activity by blocking the nuclear translocation of NF-κB, and down-regulating the expression of iNOS, COX-2, IL-1β, and IL-6 in a concentration-dependent manner. These results suggest that the stems of S. nigrum may serve as a source of anti-inflammatory agents for use in healthy or medicinal products.

Total steroidal saponins from black nightshade (Solanum nigrum L.) overcome tumor multidrug resistance by inducing autophagy-mediated cell death in vivo and in vitro

Multiple drug resistance (MDR) often occurs after prolonged chemotherapy, leading to refractory tumors and cancer recurrence. In this study, we demonstrated that the total steroidal saponins from Solanum nigrum L. (SN) had broad-spectrum cytotoxic activity against various human leukemia cancer cell lines, especially in adriamycin (ADR)-sensitive and resistant K562 cell lines. Moreover, SN could effectively inhibit the expression of ABC transporter in K562/ADR cells in vivo and in vitro. In vivo, by establishing K562/ADR xenograft tumor model, we demonstrated that SN might overcome drug resistance and inhibit the proliferation of tumors by regulating autophagy. In vitro, the increased LC3 puncta, the expression of LC3-II and Beclin-1, and the decreased expression of p62/SQSTM1 in SN-treated K562/ADR and K562 cells demonstrated autophagy induced by SN. Moreover, using the autophagy inhibitors or transfecting the ATG5 shRNA, we confirmed that autophagy induced by SN was a key factor in overcoming MDR thereby promoting cell death in K562/ADR cells. More importantly, SN-induced autophagy through the mTOR signaling pathway to overcome drug resistance and ultimately induced autophagy-mediated cell death in K562/ADR cells. Taken together, our findings suggest that SN has the potential to treat multidrug-resistant leukemia.

Anticancer activity of glycoalkaloids from Solanum plants: A review

Cancer is still one of the main causes of death worldwide. For this reason, new compounds that have chemotherapeutic potential have been identified. One such group of substances is Solanaceae glycoalkaloids (GAs). They are natural compounds produced by plants widely used in traditional medicine for healing many disorders. Among others, GAs exhibit significant antitumor properties, for example, a strong inhibitory effect on cancer cell growth. This activity can result in the induction of tumor cell apoptosis, which can occur via different molecular pathways. The molecular mechanisms of the action of GAs are the subject of intensive research, as improved understanding could lead to the development of new cancer therapies. The genetic basis for the formation of neoplasms are mutations in protooncogenes, suppressors, and apoptosis-controlling and repair genes; therefore, substances with antineoplastic properties may affect the levels of their expression or the levels of their expression products. Therapeutic compounds can be applied separately or in combination with other drugs to increase the efficiency of cancer therapy; they can act on the cell through various mechanisms at different stages of carcinogenesis, inducing the process of apoptosis, blocking cell proliferation and migration, and inhibiting angiogenesis. This review summarizes the newest studies on the anticancer properties of solanine (SN), chaconine (CH), solasonine (SS), solamargine (SM), tomatine (TT) and their extracts from Solanum plants.

Phytochemistry and Pharmacology of Medicinal Plants Used by the Tenggerese Society in Java Island of Indonesia

The archipelagic country of Indonesia is inhabited by 300 ethnic groups, including the indigenous people of Tengger. Based on the reported list of medicinal plants used by the Tengger community, we have reviewed each of them for their phytochemical constituents and pharmacological activities. Out of a total of 41 medicinal plants used by the Tengerrese people, 33 species were studied for their phytochemical and pharmacological properties. More than 554 phytochemicals with diverse molecular structures belonging to different chemical classes including flavonoids, terpenoids, saponins and volatiles were identified from these studied 34 medicinal plants. Many of these medicinal plants and their compounds have been tested for various pharmacological activities including anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, wound healing, headache, antimalarial and hypertension. Five popularly used medicinal plants by the healers were Garcinia mangostana, Apium graveolens, Cayratia clematidea, Drymocallis arguta and Elaeocarpus longifolius. Only A. graviolens were previously studied, with the outcomes supporting the pharmacological claims to treat hypertension. Few unexplored medicinal plants are Physalis lagascae, Piper amplum, Rosa tomentosa and Tagetes tenuifolia, and they present great potential for biodiscovery and drug lead identification.

Steroidal alkaloids from Solanum nigrum and their cytotoxic activities

Eight undescribed, along with five known steroidal alkaloids were isolated from Solanum nigrum L., a plant used in traditional Chinese medicine. Their structures were elucidated by NMR, HR-ESI-MS, and IR spectroscopy. Two compounds displayed an unusual structure in steroidal alkaloids with an open E-ring and without an F-ring present. To evaluate their bioactivities, nine compounds were selected to intervene five human cancer cell lines including H1299, HepG2, HeLa, HCT116, and MCF7 respectively. All compounds exhibited inhibitory effects for the five cell lines, revealing potential anti-tumor activities from Solanum nigrum.

Eight undescribed steroidal saponins including an unprecedented 16, 26-epoxy-furostanol saponin from Solanum xanthocarpum and their cytotoxic activities

Eight undescribed steroidal saponins named solasaponins A-H were isolated from the fruits of Solanum xanthocarpum, including an unusual 16,26-epoxy-furostanol saponin, two furostanol saponins, three isospirostanol saponins, two pseudo-spirostanol saponins. The structures of all compounds were elucidated by extensive spectroscopic data analyses (1D, 2D NMR, and HRESIMS) combined with physico-chemical analysis methods (acid hydrolysis, optical rotation, and IR). The cytotoxicities of all compounds in vitro against two human cancer cell lines (A-549 and HepG2) were evaluated by CCK-8 assay.

Khasianine ameliorates psoriasis-like skin inflammation and represses TNF-α/NF-κB axis mediated transactivation of IL-17A and IL-33 in keratinocytes

ETHNO-PHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Khasianine is recently identified as a bioactive compound from Solanum nigrum L. (SNL) which is a traditional Chinese herb (named LongKui in China) and has been clinically applied for treating psoriasis in China but with limited knowledge about the active ingredients.

AIM OF THE STUDY

This study tried to explore the bioactivity of Khasianine and showed that Khasianine possessed highly anti-inflammatory bioactivity which rapidly alleviated psoriasis-like mice skin inflammation.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Imiquimod induced psoriasis-like mouse model, and human keratinocytes were employed in this study. In vivo, immunohistochemistry and immunofluorescence were performed to evaluate the pathological improvement in psoriatic lesions after Khasianine treatment. In vitro, tumor necrosis factor α (TNF-α) treated HaCaT cells with or without Khasianine, were used to analyze the expression and cellular location of NF-κB p65, the expression of IL-17A and IL-33, and the binding intensity of NF-κB p65 on the promoter of IL-17A and IL-33 to understand the molecular mechanism of Khasianine mediated anti-inflammatory effect.

RESULTS

Khasianine reduced infiltration of CD4⁺ T helper cells (Th cells) and macrophages in mice psoriatic lesions. Immunohistochemistry analysis revealed that Khasianine reduced TNF-α levels in lesions and suppressed NF-κB p65 activation as well as expression of IL-17A and IL-33 in mice epidermal keratinocytes. Further studies in human keratinocytes demonstrated that Khasianine inhibited TNF-α-induced transcriptional activation (transactivation) of NF-κB p65 such as evicting NF-κB p65 binding from the promoter regions of IL-17A and IL-33 and preventing NF-κB nuclear translocation.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results suggested that Khasianine is a potent anti-inflammatory compound with the bioactivity of NF-κB inhibition and is a promising candidate for psoriasis topical therapy.

Chemistry and bioactivities of natural steroidal alkaloids

Steroidal alkaloids possess the basic steroidal skeleton with a nitrogen atom in rings or side chains incorporated as an integral part of the molecule. They have demonstrated a wide range of biological activities, and some of them have even been developed as therapeutic drugs, such as abiraterone acetate (Zytiga^®), a blockbuster drug, which has been used for the treatment of prostate cancer. Structurally diverse natural steroidal alkaloids present a wide spectrum of biological activities, which are attractive for natural product chemistry and medicinal chemistry communities. This review comprehensively covers the structural classification, isolation and various biological activities of 697 natural steroidal alkaloids discovered from 1926 to October 2021, with 363 references being cited.

Solasonine induces apoptosis of the SGC-7901 human gastric cancer cell line in vitro via the mitochondria-mediated pathway

Solasonine, a steroidal glycoalkaloid isolated from the herbal plant Solanum nigrum Linn., has shown active against multiple human cancers; however, there is little knowledge on the activity of solasonine against gastric cancer until now. This study aimed to examine the effect of solasonine on the biological behaviours of human gastric cancer SGC‐7901 cells. The results showed that solasonine suppressed SGC‐7901 cell proliferation in a dose‐dependent manner. Solasonine treatment mainly induced the cell cycle arrest at G2 phase in SGC‐7901 cells. Treatment with solasonine resulted in significant down‐regulation of Bcl‐2 and Caspase‐3 protein expression and reduced Bax and Bcl‐xL protein expression in SGC‐7901 cells. Solasonine shows a comparable inhibitory effect on the proliferation of human gastric cancer SGC‐7901 cells with cisplatin, and solasonine induces of SGC‐7901 cell apoptosis through triggering the endoplasmic reticulum stress pathway and the mitochondrial pathway. Our data indicate that solasonine may be a promising agent for the treatment of gastric cancer.

Anticancer L-Asparaginase and Phytoactive Compounds From Plant Solanum nigrum Against MDR (Methicillindrug resistant) Staphylococcus aureus and Fungal Isolates

L-asparaginase is used in chemotherapy for acute lymphoblastic leukemia and other cancers. L-asparaginase derived from bacterial source triggers immune responses. The current study investigates Solanum nigrum as a novel and latent source of L-asparaginase to minimize immunological reactions. The antitumor activity of SN methanol extract was determined using the potato disc assay. InterPro Chimera and InterPro were used to predict the amino acid sequence of L-asparaginase and its anticancer activity. Purification of the enzyme was carried out to homogeneity of 1.51-fold with a recovery of 61.99%. At optimal conditions of 36.5°C, pH 8.6, and 8.5 g/mL substrate, fruit (crude extract) revealed an L-asparaginase titer of 48.23 U/mL. The molecular weight of the enzyme was calculated to be 32 ± 5 kDa using SDS PAGE. The fruit’s total flavonoids and phenolic contents are 0.42 ± .030 g/mL and 94 ± 1.9 mg CAE, respectively. Anti-tumorigenic efficacy was determined to be 66% against Agrobacterium tumefaciens. Additionally, the extract possesses potent antifungal and antibacterial properties. Molecular docking provided the structural motifs and underlying interactions between L-asparaginase, N-acetylglucosamine, murine, and chitin. SN contains high levels of the enzyme L-asparaginase and phytochemicals, making it a potential source of anticancer drugs.

Fruity, sticky, stinky, spicy, bitter, addictive, and deadly: evolutionary signatures of metabolic complexity in the Solanaceae

Covering: 2000-2022Plants collectively synthesize a huge repertoire of metabolites. General metabolites, also referred to as primary metabolites, are conserved across the plant kingdom and are required for processes essential to growth and development. These include amino acids, sugars, lipids, and organic acids. In contrast, specialized metabolites, historically termed secondary metabolites, are structurally diverse, exhibit lineage-specific distribution and provide selective advantage to host species to facilitate reproduction and environmental adaptation. Due to their potent bioactivities, plant specialized metabolites attract considerable attention for use as flavorings, fragrances, pharmaceuticals, and bio-pesticides. The Solanaceae (Nightshade family) consists of approximately 2700 species and includes crops of significant economic, cultural, and scientific importance: these include potato, tomato, pepper, eggplant, tobacco, and petunia. The Solanaceae has emerged as a model family for studying the biochemical evolution of plant specialized metabolism and multiple examples exist of lineage-specific metabolites that influence the senses and physiology of commensal and harmful organisms, including humans. These include, alcohols, phenylpropanoids, and carotenoids that contribute to fruit aroma and color in tomato (fruity), glandular trichome-derived terpenoids and acylsugars that contribute to plant defense (stinky & sticky, respectively), capsaicinoids in chilli-peppers that influence seed dispersal (spicy), and steroidal glycoalkaloids (bitter) from Solanum, nicotine (addictive) from tobacco, as well as tropane alkaloids (deadly) from Deadly Nightshade that deter herbivory. Advances in genomics and metabolomics, coupled with the adoption of comparative phylogenetic approaches, resulted in deeper knowledge of the biosynthesis and evolution of these metabolites. This review highlights recent progress in this area and outlines opportunities for - and challenges of-developing a more comprehensive understanding of Solanaceae metabolism.

Hidden in Plants—A Review of the Anticancer Potential of the Solanaceae Family in In Vitro and In Vivo Studies

Simple Summary

The Solanaceae family is one of the most important arable and economic families in the world. In addition, it includes a wide range of valuable active secondary metabolites of species with biological and medical properties. This literature review focuses on the assessment of the anticancer properties of the extracts and pure compounds, and the synergistic effects with chemotherapeutic agents and nanoparticles from various species of the Solanaceae family, as well as their potential molecular mechanisms of action in in vitro and in vivo studies in various types of tumours.

Abstract

Many of the anticancer agents that are currently in use demonstrate severe side effects and encounter increasing resistance from the target cancer cells. Thus, despite significant advances in cancer therapy in recent decades, there is still a need to discover and develop new, alternative anticancer agents. The plant kingdom contains a range of phytochemicals that play important roles in the prevention and treatment of many diseases. The Solanaceae family is widely used in the treatment of various diseases, including cancer, due to its bioactive ingredient content. The purpose of this literature review is to highlight the antitumour activity of Solanaceae extracts—single isolated compounds and nanoparticles with extracts—and their synergistic effect with chemotherapeutic agents in various in vitro and in vivo cancer models. In addition, the biological properties of many plants of the Solanaceae family have not yet been investigated, which represents a challenge and an opportunity for future anticancer therapy.

Medicinal Plants for Anti-neurodegenerative diseases in West Africa

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Neurodegenerative diseases are neuronal diseases that affect the brain components by degenerating the structure and function of the central or peripheral nervous system progressively. It is a leading cause of death and affects huge amount of people worldwide. Plant-based medicines have been utilised in the therapies for many illnesses that have defied western treatments, including neurodegenerative diseases.

AIM OF THIS REVIEW

This review presents an overview of the major neurodegenerative diseases and reported prominent medicinal plants used in managing those diseases in West Africa.

METHODS

Scientific articles regarding medicinal plants and their usefulness in managing neurodegenerative diseases in West Africa were pooled from different scientific databases. We used the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses to filter articles based on their relevance. Pharmacological activity, plant parts used, experimental models, and some isolated chemical compounds of those plants were summarised.

RESULTS

In the West Africa region, Fabaceae (19%) and Solanaceae (13%) have the highest representation of plant families used to treat neurological diseases, while Apocynaceae, Asteraceae, Euphorbiaceae have also been utilised. Flavonoids, alkaloids, phenolic compounds, terpenoids, coumarins present in those plants and their derivatives are reported to possess neuro-protective effects. Biochemical enzymes correlating to antioxidants, anti-inflammatory effects are the potential targets against neurodegenerative diseases.

CONCLUSION

Medicinal plants for anti-neurodegenerative diseases in West Africa have been documented with their neuropharmacological activities. Plant families such as Fabaceae, Solanaceae, Apocynaceae, Asteraceae, and Euphorbiaceae could be a major natural source for discovery of anti-neurodegenerative drugs, thus the metabolites from them should be given priority for neurological research. This review will provide clues for further investigations on the screening and development of anti-neurodegenerative natural products from West African medicinal plants.

High-Performance Liquid Chromatography–Mass Spectrometry Analysis of Glycoalkaloids from Underexploited Solanum Species and Their Acetylcholinesterase Inhibition Activity

Solanum glycoalkaloids are gaining increased scientific attention due to their bioactive potential in the defense of plants against pests and pathogens. The comprehensive glycoalkaloid profiling from the leaves, stems, and roots of seven underexploited Solanum species (S. caripense, S. melanocerasum, S. muricatum, S. nigrum, S. quitoense, S. retroflexum, and S. sisymbriifolium) was conducted using high-performance liquid chromatography–time-of-flight mass spectrometry. A total of 51 glycoalkaloids were shared among the studied Solanum species, with concentrations ranging from 7 to 5.63 × 10⁵ ng g⁻¹. Based on the glycoalkaloid composition, plants were separated into two clusters, Cluster 1 (S. melanocerasum, S. nigrum, and S. retroflexum) and Cluster 2 (S. caripense, S. muricatum, S. quitoense, and S. sisymbriifolium). The inhibition activity of glycoalkaloid extracts on acetylcholinesterase showed a half-maximal inhibitory concentration (IC₅₀), ranging from 0.4 (S. nigrum stems) to 344.9 µg mL⁻¹ (S. sisymbriifolium leaves), that was not directly correlated to the total glycoalkaloid contents. This suggests that the composition of glycoalkaloids in the plant extract, rather than the total concentration, is a driver of biological activity. The study provides a framework for the bioprospecting of underexploited Solanum species for exploring bioactive glycoalkaloids and other compounds with potential pesticidal activities for the development of green bioformulation. This is the first comprehensive report on the glycoalkaloid profiles of S. retroflexum.

Solanum Fruits: Phytochemicals, Bioaccessibility and Bioavailability, and Their Relationship With Their Health-Promoting Effects

The Solanum genus is the largest in the Solanaceae family containing around 2,000 species. There is a great number of edibles obtained from this genus, and globally, the most common are tomato (S. lycopersicum), potato (S. tuberosum), and eggplant (S. melongena). Other fruits are common in specific regions and countries, for instance, S. nigrum, S. torvum, S. betaceum, and S. stramonifolium. Various reports have shown that flavonoids, phenolic acids, alkaloids, saponins, and other molecules can be found in these plants. These molecules are associated with various health-promoting properties against many non-communicable diseases, the main causes of death globally. Nonetheless, the transformations of the structure of antioxidants caused by cooking methods and gastrointestinal digestion impact their potential benefits and must be considered. This review provides information about antioxidant compounds, their bioaccessibility and bioavailability, and their health-promoting effects. Bioaccessibility and bioavailability studies must be considered when evaluating the bioactive properties of health-promoting molecules like those from the Solanum genus.

A systematic review on nephron protective AYUSH drugs as constituents of NEERI-KFT (A traditional Indian polyherbal formulation) for the management of chronic kidney disease

Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) is a major health problem characterized by kidney dysfunction with progressive segmental glomerulosclerosis to end-stage renal disease (ESRD). Due to lack of scientific data and comprehensive reports, the current systematic review provides an inclusive understanding and prospective associated with phytopharmacology of NEERI-KFT in CKD. The data was collected from more than five databases such as Science Direct, Google Scholar, Elsevier, PubMed, Springer, ACS publication etc using keywords like CKD/Kidney disease, epidemiology/prevalence, modern therapies for CKD management, NEERI-KFT and its role in kidney disease. The study was performed based on scientific reports screened by experts according to inclusion and exclusion criteria. The pre-clinical and clinical findings suggested that NEERI-KFT has promising effects as nephroprotective and considered safe and well effective in primary care of kidney against disease. Phytopharmacological evaluation of NEERI-KFT suggest that it exhibit substantial potential against oxidative and inflammatory stress induced apoptosis by exerting antioxidants, nephroprotective and immunomodulatory effects. Hence, it can be enlighten that NEERI-KFT have potential herbs which exerts significant antioxidants, nephroprotective and immunomodulatory effects in the patients associated with renal dysfunction or CKD thus improving altered renal architecture and renal physiology. Clinically, it is concluded that NEERI-KFT works kidney malfunction and cease ESRD progression or even reduce the number of dialysis.

Potential of Steroidal Alkaloids in Cancer: Perspective Insight Into Structure-Activity Relationships

Steroidal alkaloids contain both steroidal and alkaloid properties in terms of chemical properties and pharmacological activities. Due to outstanding biological activities such as alkaloids and similar pharmacological effects to other steroids, steroidal alkaloids have received special attention in anticancer activity recently. Substituted groups in chemical structure play markedly important roles in biological activities. Therefore, the effective way to obtain lead compounds quickly is structural modification, which is guided by structure-activity relationships (SARs). This review presents the SAR of steroidal alkaloids and anticancer, including pregnane alkaloids, cyclopregnane alkaloids, cholestane alkaloids, C-nor-D-homosteroidal alkaloids, and bis-steroidal pyrazine. A summary of SAR can powerfully help to design and synthesize more lead compounds.

Solanum nigrum Line inhibits osteoclast differentiation and suppresses bone mineral density reduction in the ovariectomy‑induced osteoporosis model

Bone homeostasis is maintained by osteoclasts that absorb bone and osteoblasts that form bone tissue. Menopausal osteoporosis is a disease associated with aging and hormonal changes due to menopause causing abnormal activation of osteoclasts, resulting in a decrease in bone density. Existing treatments for osteoporosis have been reported to have serious side effects, such as jawbone necrosis and breast and uterine cancer; therefore, their use by patients is decreasing, whilst studies focusing on alternative treatments are increasingly popular. Solanum nigrum Line (SL) has been used as a medicinal plant that possesses several pharmacological effects, such as anti‑inflammatory and hepatotoxic protective effects. To the best of our knowledge, however, its effects on osteoporosis and osteoclasts have not been demonstrated previously. In the present study, the anti‑osteoporotic effect of SL was investigated using a postmenopausal model of osteoporosis in which Sprague‑Dawley rat ovaries were extracted. In addition, the inhibitory effects on osteoclast differentiation and function of SL was confirmed using an osteoclast model treated with receptor activator of NF‑κB ligand (RANKL) on murine RAW 264.7 macrophages. In vivo experiments showed that SL reduced the decrease in bone mineral density and improved changes in the morphological index of bone microstructure, such as trabecular number and separation. In addition, the number of tartrate resistant acid phosphatase‑positive cells in the femur and the expression levels of nuclear factor of activated T‑cells cytoplasmic 1 (NFATc1) and cathepsin K protein were inhibited. In vitro, SL suppressed RANKL‑induced osteoclast differentiation and bone resorption ability; this was mediated by NFATc1/c‑Fos, a key transcription factor involved in osteoclast differentiation, ultimately inhibiting expression of various osteoclast‑associated genes. These experimental results show that SL may be an alternative treatment for osteoporosis caused by abnormal activation of osteoclasts in the future.

Anti-tumor effects of Solanum nigrum L. extraction on C6 high-grade glioma

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Solanum nigrum L. (SN) is a traditional Chinese medicine with anti-tumor effects, has been used in cancer for centuries, but the role on high-grade gliomas (HGG) is not clear.

AIM OF THE STUDY

This work was to investigate the anti-tumor effects of SN extract on rat C6 glioma in vitro and in vivo, providing a new medium for the treatment of HGG.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

After identification and quality inspection of SN medicinal materials by HPLC-MS/MS and HPLC, CCK8 and colony formation assay were conducted to study the effects of SN on vitality and proliferation of C6 cells. Cell morphology was evaluated by HE staining, and flow cytometry was used for apoptosis analysis. The effects on cell migration and invasion were determined by transwell and wound healing assay. Western blot was used to further investigate the influence of SN on migration, invasion and apoptosis of tumor cells. In addition, the rat intracranial transplanted tumor model was used to evaluate the effects of SN on growth and infiltration of tumor and proliferation of transplanted tumor cells.

RESULTS

SN extract suppressed the viability of C6 cells in a dose-dependent manner. The extract attenuated cell cloning, migration and invasion, and induced cell Annexin V+ PI+ late-stage apoptosis. Besides, SN induced the expression of apoptotic proteins including Bax and Cleaved Caspase-3, downregulated anti-apoptotic protein Bcl-2, and decreased the level of migratory proteins MMP-2 and MMP-9. Moreover, SN reduced the growth and infiltration of C6 glioma tissue and suppressed the proliferation of tumor cells in rat brain.

CONCLUSIONS

SN extract has significant inhibitory activity on the growth and invasion of C6 HGG in vivo and in vitro.

Solanum steroidal glycoalkaloids: structural diversity, biological activities, and biosynthesis

Chemical structures of typical Solanum steroidal glycoalkaloids from eggplant, tomato, and potato.

Terpenoid and phenolic derivatives from the aerial parts of Elsholtzia rugulosa and their anti-inflammatory activity

Seven undescribed terpenoids, including three pairs of enantiomers, named (±)-rugulolides A-C, and one cyclopentenone derivative, named rugulolide D, together with twenty-six known compounds, were isolated from the aerial parts of Elsholtzia rugulosa. The chiral separation of rugulolides A-C was achieved by high-performance liquid chromatography using the chiral column. Their structures were elucidated unambiguously based on comprehensive spectroscopic analysis in conjunction with electronic circular dichroism (ECD) and single-crystal X-ray diffraction experiments. Rugulolides A-D are rare naturally occurring terpenoid derivatives featuring a methylated α,β-unsaturated-γ-lactone or a cyclopent-2-en-1-one nucleus. All the isolates were evaluated for their inhibitory effects on lipopolysaccharide-induced nitric oxide production in RAW264.7 cell, among them, four compounds showed moderate inhibition with IC₅₀ values ranging from 12.46 to 23.10 μM.

Chemical composition, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and antinociceptive activities of the ethanol extract of ripe fruits of Solanum lycocarpum St. Hil. (Solanaceae)

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Solanum lycocarpum St. Hil. (Solanaceae) is widely distributed in the Brazilian Cerrado and is used in folk medicine for treatment of inflammatory disorders, such as asthma and hepatitis, as weel as antirheumatic.

AIM OF THE STUDY

The aims of this study were to evaluate the antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and antinociceptive activities of the ethanol extract (EE) obtained from the ripe fruits of S. lycocarpum and to identify its chemical constituents.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The extract was obtained by percolation with ethanol. This extract was analyzed by liquid chromatography coupled to a diode array detector and mass spectrometer (LC-DAD-MS) for identify its chemical constituents. The antioxidant activity was determined by the reaction with 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl radical (DPPH). In vivo anti-inflammatory potential was assessed using carrageenan-induced paw edema model, while qualitative and quantitative histological analyses evaluated of the inflammatory infiltrate at different times and treatments. The antinociceptive effect of the EE was evaluated by acetic acid-induced abdominal writhing test, formalin-induced nociception and hot-plate test.

RESULTS

The main compounds identified in EE were steroidal glycoalkaloids (such as robeneoside B or hydroxysolasonine isomers and solanandaine isomers), the aglycone alkaloids peiminine and solasodine, di- and tri-O-caffeoylquinic acid derivatives, O-coumaroyl caffeoylquinic acid derivatives, N1,N10-bis-(dihydrocaffeoyl)spermidine, di-O-hexoside, and hexonic acid. In addition, the EE showed significant antioxidant activity. Intraperitoneal (i.p.) treatment with EE (300 mg/kg) exhibited anti-inflammatory activity. Qualitative and quantitative histological analyses showed that EE significantly reduced the cell infiltrate in acute inflammation. The EE, in all doses evaluated, significantly reduced the abdominal contortions in mice. Besides, reduced licking time was found in both phases in the formalin test after treatment with EE (100 and 300 mg/kg). In addition, the opioid receptor antagonist naloxone reversed the antinociceptive activity of morphine in the both phases the test, but it did not reverse the antinociceptive activity of the EE. The EE (300 mg/kg) also caused an increase in the latency to response in the hot-plate test.

CONCLUSION

The ripe fruits of S. lycocarpum exhibit antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antinociceptive activities, attributed mainly to the presence of alkaloids, such as solasodine and peiminine, as well as caffeoylquinic acids in their chemical composition. These results contribute to use of S. lycocarpum ripe fruits for the treatment of inflammatory and painful process.

Triterpene saponins from the seeds of Erythrophleum fordii and their cytotoxic activities

Erythrosides A-G, seven undescribed oleanane-type triterpenoid saponins, were isolated from the seeds of Erythrophleum fordii. Their structures with absolute configurations were determined by extensive spectroscopic analysis including one-dimensional [1D] and two-dimensional [2D] nuclear magnetic resonance [NMR], high-resolution electrospray ionization mass spectroscopy [HR-ESI-MS] analysis, and chemical methods. Erythrosides A-G featured a diverse oligosaccharide chain containing 4-6 pentoses or hexoses at C-3 and a monoterpenic acid or a (E)-cinnamic acid unit at the C-21 position. Of particular interest, erythrosides A-C, E and F contained a rare alpha xylose in their sugar chains. The bioassay results indicated that erythrosides A-C showed moderate cytotoxic activities against human lung cancer cell line PC9 with IC₅₀ values of 13.14, 16.67 and 17.59 μM, respectively (the positive control, Taxol, IC₅₀ = 0.60 nM).

A new steroidal glycoside from the fruits of Solanum myriacanthum

A new cholestane-type steroidal glycoside, solamyriaside A (1), was isolated from the fruits of Solanum myriacanthum Dunal (Solanaceae), along with two known steroidal glycosides, namely, solaviaside A (2) and aculeatiside A (3), and three known steroidal alkaloid glycosides, namely, solamargine (4), khasianine (5) and solasonine (6), which were isolated for the first time from this plant. Based on spectroscopic data as well as chemical evidence, 1 was determined to be 3-O-α-L-rhamnopyranosyl-(1→2)-O-[α-L-rhamnopyranosyl-(1→4)]-β-D-glucopyranosyl-22R,25R-cholest-5-ene-3β,16α,22,26-tetraol 26-O-β-D-glucopyranoside. The cytotoxic activity of 1-6 against HL-60 human promyelocytic leukaemia cells was examined. Compounds 4-6 showed cytotoxic activity. Among them, 4 exhibited the strongest activity with an IC₅₀ value of 4.64 ± 0.17 μM, similar to the activity of cisplatin, a positive control.

Mass Spectrometry Imaging of the Spatial and Temporal Localization of Alkaloids in Nightshades

Alkaloids are common secondary metabolites found also in plants of the large family of Solanaceae, and they contribute frequently to the economic importance of these plants as food, spices, drugs, or pharmaceuticals. Matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization mass spectrometry imaging was applied to visualize the spatial localization of the main steroidal alkaloids in diverse plant tissues of Lycopersicon esculentum, Solanum nigrum, and Solanum dulcamara. Among others, the basic aglycons, tomatidenol, tomatidine, solasodine, and soladulcine, along with their corresponding glycoalkaloids, were identified with distinct distributions within plant tissue structures and plant parts and with respect to the degree of ripeness. The alkaloids are identified by their mass and fragmentation pattern. Multivariate unsupervised principal compound analysis and the k-means clustering analysis were calculated on the basis of all peaks, automatically picked from all selected regions, with total ion count normalization resulting in characterization of the tissues and organs with respect to their chemical similarity. It can therefore be concluded that the tissue-specific localizations of alkaloids in nightshades depend upon the ripeness status and the developmental stage of the plants.

Novel reciprocal interaction of lncRNA HOTAIR and miR-214-3p contribute to the solamargine-inhibited PDPK1 gene expression in human lung cancer

Solamargine (SM) has been shown to have anti‐cancer properties. However, the underlying mechanism involved remains undetermined. We showed that SM inhibited the growth of non‐small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) cells, which was enhanced in cells with silencing of long non‐coding RNA (lncRNA) HOX transcript antisense RNA (HOTAIR), while it overcame by overexpression of HOTAIR. In addition, SM increased the expression of miR‐214‐3p and inhibited 3‐phosphoinositide‐dependent protein kinase‐1 (PDPK1) gene expression, which was strengthened by miR‐214‐3p mimics. Intriguingly, HOTAIR could directly bind to miR‐214‐3p and sequestered miR‐214‐3p from the target gene PDPK1. Intriguingly, overexpression of PDPK1 overcame the effects of SM on miR‐214‐3p expressions and neutralized the SM‐inhibited cell growth. Similar results were observed in vivo. In summary, our results showed that SM‐inhibited NSCLC cell growth through the reciprocal interaction between HOTAIR and miR‐214‐3p, which ultimately suppressed PDPK1 gene expression. HOTAIR effectively acted as a competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA) to stimulate the expression of target gene PDPK1. These complex interactions and feedback mechanisms contribute to the overall effect of SM. This unveils a novel molecular mechanism underlying the anti‐cancer effect of SM in human lung cancer.

Total Alkaloids from Bamboo Shoots and Bamboo Shoot Shells of Pleioblastus amarus (Keng) Keng f. and Their Anti-Inflammatory Activities

The bamboo shoot of Pleioblastus amarus (Keng) Keng f. is a medicinal and edible plant product in China. In this study, the chemical composition of the total alkaloids from bamboo shoots and bamboo shoot shells of P. amarus (Keng) Keng f. (ABSP and ABSSP, respectively) were separated and investigated by UHPLC/QTOF-MS/MS. The results showed that a total of 32 alkaloids were extracted, with 15 common to both ABSP and ABSSP and 10 and 7 alkaloids distinct to ABSP and ABSSP, respectively. ABSP and ABSSP both decreased the lipopolysaccharide (LPS, 0.5 μg/mL)-induced nitric oxide (NO) production in RAW264.7 murine macrophages with half maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) values of 78 and 55 μg/mL, respectively. We also found that ABSP and ABSSP (100 μg/mL) could decrease the expression of inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) and cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) at both mRNA and protein levels in LPS-exposed RAW264.7 cells. Moreover, 100 μg/mL of ABSP and ABSSP also significantly inhibited LPS-induced mRNA expression of interleukin 1β (IL-1β) and tumor necrosis factor α (TNF-α). Additionally, ABSP and ABSSP (100 μg/mL) decreased the phosphorylation of extracellular regulated protein kinase (ERK) in LPS-stimulated RAW264.7 cells. Collectively, the total alkaloids from the bamboo shoots and shells of P. amarus exhibit anti-inflammatory effects in LPS-activated RAW264.7 cells through the inhibition of ERK signaling. This result can provide support for the medicinal use and further study of P. amarus.

Long noncoding RNA GAS5 modulates α-Solanine-induced radiosensitivity by negatively regulating miR-18a in human prostate cancer cells

Radiotherapy is an adjuvant treatment of surgery in prostate cancer, while radioresistance has been the challenge of treatment. It has been reported that α-Solanine exhibits anti-cancer activity and enhances the chemo- and radio-sensitivity in several human cancers, whereas the role of α-Solanine on radiosensitivity to PCa remains to be uncovered yet. We found α-Solanine decreased cell viability in human PCa cells rather than normal prostate epithelial cells in vitro. Functional experiments showed that cell viability and colonies formation were declined & apoptosis rate and DNA double strand breaks (DSBs) marker γ-H2AX expressions were elevated by α-Solanine in PCa cells treated with X-ray irradiation, compared with X-ray irradiation treatment only. GAS5 was down-regulated & miR-18a was up-regulated in PCa cells, which was reversed in the presence of α-Solanine. Effects of ectopic GAS5 on inhibiting cell viability and survival & promoting apoptosis and DNA damage were reversed by miR-18a overexpression in PCa cells. Moreover, GAS5 regulated miR-18a expression by target binding during α-Solanine treatment. Collectively, α-Solanine suppresses cell proliferation and promotes radiosensitivity through up-regulating GAS5/miR-18a pathway in PCa. Our results provide a novel mechanism of α-Solanine treatment in human prostate cancer and help to develop a new approach to sensitizing radioresistant prostate cancer cells by targeting GAS5/miR-18a.

Antioxidant Activities of Solanum Nigrum L. Leaf Extracts Determined in in vitro Cellular Models

Several medicinal foods abound in traditional medicine with antioxidant potentials that could be of importance for the management of several diseases but with little or no scientific justification to substantiate their use. Thus, the objective of this study was the assessment of the antioxidant effect of two leave extracts of Solanum nigrum L. (SN), which is a medicinal plant member of the Solanaceae family, mainly used for soup preparation in different parts of the world. Then methanolic/water (80:20) (SN1) and water (SN2) leaves extracts were prepared. The total polyphenolic content and the concentration of phenolic acids and flavones compounds were determined. In order to verify whether examined extracts were able to restore the oxidative status, modified by glutamate in primary cultures of astrocytes, the study evaluated the glutathione levels, the intracellular oxidative stress, and the cytotoxicity of SN1 and SN2 extracts. Both extracts were able to quench the radical in an in vitro free cellular system and restore the oxidative status in in vitro primary cultures of rat astroglial cells exposed to glutamate. These extracts prevented the increase in glutamate uptake and inhibited glutamate excitotoxicity, which leads to cell damage and shows a notable antioxidant property.

Identification of Polyphenols, Glycoalkaloids, and Saponins in Solanum scabrum Berries Using HPLC-UV/Vis-MS

Consumption safety of Solanum scabrum berries is controversial in different cultural practices and evaluation of the toxicity as well as micronutrition value relies on relevant phytochemical study. Thus, this study aimed to systematically profile the phytochemicals in the berries from different genetic sources and maturity. Using a combination of three different and complementary methods of HPLC-UV/Vis-MS or MS/MS with acid-assisted hydrolysis, a total of 54 phytochemicals were identified including polyphenols, saponins and toxic glycoalkaloids. Particularly, a broad range of glycoalkaloids of solasodine and its uncommon or potentially novel hydroxylated and methylated derivatives were reported, with the structure putatively identified based on the known scaffold-fragmentation pattern. Other identified phytochemicals included phenolic acids of chlorogenic acid and neochlorogenic acid, flavonol glycosides of quercetin and isorhamnetin, anthocyanins of petunidin, malvidin and delphinidin, and saponins of diosgenin and tigogenin. PRACTICAL APPLICATION: This study provides solutions for identifying the phytochemicals of S. scabrum berries, and unveiled for the first time a wide range of toxic glycoalkaloids of solasodine and analogues in the berries from different genetic sources and maturation stages. This work laid the foundation for prospective quantitative determination of berry phytochemicals and future toxicity and nutrition evaluation, and could also apply to facilitate screening or breeding for glycoalkaloid-deficient genotypes that can be used as new food supply.

Acyl atractyligenin and carboxyatractyligenin glycosides from Antennaria rosea subsp. confinis

Eight previously undescribed acyl atractyligenin and carboxyatractyligenin glycosides were isolated from whole Antennaria rosea subsp. confinis (Greene) R. J. Bayer (Compositae) [syn. Leontopodium leontopodioides (Willd.) Beauv. (Asteraceae)] plants and their structures were determined by spectroscopic and chemical methods. The compounds were trivially named leontopodiosides F-M. Seven of the compounds showed potent in vitro inhibitory activity toward pancreatic lipase with IC₅₀ values ranging from 3.4 to 52.5 μM, suggesting that they participate in the previously observed effect this plant has in reducing triglyceride absorption in rats.

Two New Steroidal Alkaloid Saponins from the Whole Plants of Solanum nigrum

Two new steroidal alkaloid saponins, solanigrosides Q and R (1 and 2), together with four known compounds khasianine (3), solamargine (4), solasonine (5), and soladulcoside A (6) were isolated from the whole plants of Solanum nigrum. The structures of new compounds (1 and 2) were determined by interpretation of HR-ESI-MS, 1D and 2D NMR spectra, and chemical transformation. Compound 4 exhibited potent cytotoxic activity against MDA-MB-231, A549, Hep3B, PC3 human cancer cell lines with IC50 values of 1.86 ± 0.45, 2.24 ± 0.15, 0.78 ± 0.11, 5.13 ± 1.34 μM, respectively.

Steroidal alkaloid solanine A from Solanum nigrum Linn. exhibits anti-inflammatory activity in lipopolysaccharide/interferon γ-activated murine macrophages and animal models of inflammation

Solanine A is a novel steroidal alkaloid isolated from Solanum nigrum Linn., a medicinal and edible plant which is widely used for treating various inflammatory diseases. In this study, we found that solanine A markedly suppressed the production of nitric oxide (NO) and prostaglandin E₂ (PGE₂) in lipopolysaccharide/interferon-γ (LPS/IFNγ)-stimulated RAW264.7 cells, and attenuated xylene, carrageenan and agar-induced inflammation in mice. The mRNA levels of inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), cyclooxygenase-2 (COX2), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interleukin-6 (IL-6), and -1β (IL-1β), as well as C-X-C motif chemokine ligand-9 (CXCL9), were significantly decreased by solanine A. Furthermore, solanine A also suppressed LPS/IFNγ-induced protein expression of iNOS and COX2. Mechanistically, solanine A inhibited the nuclear translocation of nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) through the prevention of NF-κB p65 and inhibitory κB-α (IκBα) phosphorylation and IκBα degradation, and it also suppressed activation of extracellular regulated protein kinases (ERK), signal transducers and activators of transcription-1 (STAT1) and serine/threonine protein kinase Akt in LPS/IFNγ-stimulated RAW264.7 macrophages and agar-induced granuloma model in mice. Taken together, solanine A exhibits a potent anti-inflammatory activity in LPS/IFNγ- activated macrophages and animal models of inflammation through inhibition of NF-κB, ERK1/2, Akt and STAT1 signaling pathways, suggesting that solanine A may be a valuable leading compound in the treatment of inflammatory diseases.