Cytoprotective role of Solanum nigrum against gentamicin-induced kidney cell (Vero cells) damage in vitro

Mycorrhizal Symbiosis Can Change the Composition of Secondary Metabolites in Fruits of Solanum nigrum L

Solanum nigrum is a common weed in arable land, while being used in traditional medicine around the world due to its remarkable levels of valuable secondary metabolites. Agronomic and biological techniques can alter the production of a specific metabolite by influencing plant growth and metabolism. The effects of colonization with three arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF), including Funneliformis mosseae, Rhizoglomus intraradices, and Rhizoglomus fasciculatum, on the chemical composition of S. nigrum fruits were evaluated by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) analysis. More than 100 different chemical constituents were evaluated by GC-MS. Our study revealed that the levels of phenols (quinic acid), benzenes (hydroquinone), sulfur-containing compounds, lactone and carboxylic acids were improved by R. intraradices. In contrast, hydroxymethylfurfural increased by 68 % in R. fasciculatum inoculated with uninoculated S. nigrum plants, and this species was also the most efficient in inducing sugar compounds (D-galactose, lactose, and melezitose). Our results suggest that AMF colonization is an effective biological strategy that can alter the chemical composition and improve the medicinal properties of S. nigrum.

Insight in Superiority of the Hydrophobized Gentamycin in Terms of Antibiotics Delivery to Bone Tissue

Bone infections are a serious problem to cure, as systemic administration of antibiotics is not very effective due to poor bone vascularization. Therefore, many drug delivery systems are investigated to solve this problem. One of the potential solutions is the delivery of antibiotics from poly(L-actide-co-glycolide) (PLGA) nanoparticles suspended in the gellan gum injectable hydrogel. However, the loading capacity and release kinetics of the system based on hydrophilic drugs (e.g., gentamycin) and hydrophobic polymers (e.g., PLGA) may not always be satisfying. To solve this problem, we decided to use hydrophobized gentamycin obtained by ion-pairing with dioctyl sulfosuccinate sodium salt (AOT). Herein, we present a comparison of the PLGA nanoparticles loaded with hydrophobic or hydrophilic gentamycin and suspended in the hydrogel in terms of physicochemical properties, drug loading capacity, release profiles, cytocompatibility, and antibacterial properties. The results showed that hydrophobic gentamycin may be combined in different formulations with the hydrophilic one and is superior in terms of encapsulation efficiency, drug loading, release, and antibacterial efficacy with no negative effect on the NPs morphology or hydrogel features. However, the cytocompatibility of hydrophobic gentamycin might be lower, consequently more extensive study on its biological properties should be provided to evaluate a safe dose.

Protective effects of Dialium guineense pulp on aspirin-induced gastric mucosal injury in albino rats

The numerous challenges and detrimental effects connected with the treatment of peptic ulcers in the world today calls for alternative attention. Ethnomedicinally, Dialium guineense pulp (DAGP) has numerous pharmacological activities. This study investigated the anti-ulcer activities of Dialium guineense pulp on gastric mucosa injury induced with aspirin in albino Wistar rats. DAGP extract was orally administered at doses of 250, 500 and 1000 mg/kg bw (mg per kg of the body weight) per day for 3 or 7 days followed by 400 mg/kg bw oral aspirin administration. Ulcer indices were determined, followed by a biochemical estimation of antioxidant enzymes using gastric mucosal tissue from the stomach. Student's t-test was used to compare significant differences among groups of animals at P ≤ 0.05. The results showed that Dialium guineense pulp caused a significant decrease (P ≤ 0.05) in the ulcer index in aspirin induced rats. This decrease in ulcer index is dose dependent and 1000 mg/kg bw per day caused the highest decrease in 7 days. The results showed a significant increase (P ≤ 0.05) in lipid peroxidation and a decrease (P ≤ 0.05) in antioxidant enzymes activities in the aspirin-induced ulcerated rats. Oral administration of DAGP increased antioxidant enzymes activities and decreased injury in the gastric mucosa in ulcer induced rats. Therefore, this study showed that DAGP exhibited anti-ulcer potential and that the gastrointestinal protection may be through the scavenging action of free radicals by its constituent antioxidants. Thus, Dialium guineense pulp has ameliorative medicinal potential for the curing of gastric disorders.

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.

Antipsychotic Potential and Safety Profile of TPGS-Based Mucoadhesive Aripiprazole Nanoemulsion: Development and Optimization for Nose-To-Brain Delivery

Delivering therapeutics to the brain using conventional dosage forms is always a challenge, thus the present study was aimed to formulate mucoadhesive nanoemulsion (MNE) of aripiprazole (ARP) for intranasal delivery to transport the drug directly to the brain. Therefore, a TPGS based ARP-MNE was formulated and optimized using the Box-Behnken statistical design. The improved in vitro release profile of the formulation was in agreement to enhanced ex vivo permeation through sheep mucous membranes with a maximum rate of permeation co-efficient (62.87  cm h^-1 × 10³) and flux (31.43  μg cm^-2.h^-1). The pharmacokinetic profile following single-dose administration showed the maximum concentration of drug in the brain (C_max) of 15.19 ± 2.51  μg mL^-1 and T_max of 1 h in animals with ARP-MNE as compared to 10.57 ± 1.88  μg mL^-1 and 1 h, and 2.52 ± 0.38  μg mL^-1 and 3 h upon intranasal and intravenous administration of ARP-NE, respectively. Further, higher values of % drug targeting efficiency (96.9%) and % drug targeting potential (89.73%) of ARP-MNE through intranasal administration were investigated. The studies in Wistar rats showed no existence of extrapyramidal symptoms through the catalepsy test and forelimb retraction results. No ex vivo ciliotoxicity on nasal mucosa reflects the safety of the components and delivery tool. Further, findings on locomotor activity and hind-limb retraction test in ARP-MNE treated animals established its antipsychotic efficacy. Thus, it can be inferred that the developed ARP-MNE could effectively be explored as brain delivery cargo in the effective treatment of schizophrenia without producing any toxic manifestation.

The Genus Solanum: An Ethnopharmacological, Phytochemical and Biological Properties Review

Over the past 30 years, the genus Solanum has received considerable attention in chemical and biological studies. Solanum is the largest genus in the family Solanaceae, comprising of about 2000 species distributed in the subtropical and tropical regions of Africa, Australia, and parts of Asia, e.g., China, India and Japan. Many of them are economically significant species. Previous phytochemical investigations on Solanum species led to the identification of steroidal saponins, steroidal alkaloids, terpenes, flavonoids, lignans, sterols, phenolic comopunds, coumarins, amongst other compounds. Many species belonging to this genus present huge range of pharmacological activities such as cytotoxicity to different tumors as breast cancer (4T1 and EMT), colorectal cancer (HCT116, HT29, and SW480), and prostate cancer (DU145) cell lines. The biological activities have been attributed to a number of steroidal saponins, steroidal alkaloids and phenols. This review features 65 phytochemically studied species of Solanum between 1990 and 2018, fetched from SciFinder, Pubmed, ScienceDirect, Wikipedia and Baidu, using "Solanum" and the species' names as search terms ("all fields").

Bioactive glycoalkaloides isolated from Solanum melongena fruit peels with potential anticancer properties against hepatocellular carcinoma cells

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is progressively increasing tumor with lack of accurate prognosis and inadequate systemic treatment approaches. Solanum sp. (such as Solanum melongena) is a folk herb which is reported to possess anticancer properties. In a continuity for our interest in pursuing the anticancer activity of compounds isolated from the fruit peels of Solanum melongena, the HPLC profiling and ESI-MS assessment for the methanolic extract evidenced the presence of bioactive glycoalkaloids (solasonine, solasodine and solamargine). These glycoalkaloids were isolated, purified and proved to possess in vitro cytotoxicity against human liver cancer cell lines (Huh7 and HepG2). Herein, we investigated the potential mechanism of action of these compounds using DNA content flow-cytometry and apoptosis/necrosis differential anaylsis using annexin-V/FITC staining. Solasonine, solasodine and solamargine inducd significant antiproliferative effect against liver cancer cells (Huh7 and HepG2) which was attributed to cell cycle arrest at S-phase. Solamargine, solasodine and solasonine induced significant apoptosis in Huh7 cells. Only solamargine-induced cell cycle arrest, was reflected as apoptotic cell killing effect against HepG2 cells. In conclusion, glycoalkaloids derived from Solanum melongena and particularly, solamargine are promising antiproliferative agents with potential anticancer effects.

Histomorphology, Sperm Quality and Hormonal Profile in Adult Male Sprague-Dawley Rats following administration of aqueous crude Extract of Solanum nigrum by gastric gavage

Objective

The present study focused on histomorphology, sperm quality, hormonal profile and hematological parameters in adult male Sprague-Dawley rats following the administration of aqueous crude extract of Solanum nigrum by gastric gavage.

Methods

Fourty healthy male adult (12-14 weeks old) Sprague-Dawley rats weighing 200-220g were randomly divided into four groups (A,B,C and D) of ten (n=10) rats each. Group A which served as control were given distilled water 2ml/kg b.wt each, daily for 28 days. Group B, C and D rats were administered 100, 300 and 500mg/kg b.wt each daily respectively for 28 days. The extract was saved with LD₅₀ >5000mg/Kg. Sperm counts, percentage motility, morphology and percentage live sperm, hormonal profile and hematological parameter were quantified; testis, epididymal and general body weights were measured using a weighing scale. The extract was administered once daily for six days within a week via oral gavage. After the last administration, all rats were sacrificed by cervical dislocation, the testis were harvested and fixed in Bouin‘s fluid for histology processing.

Results

Our results revealed an increase in sperm counts, percentage of motility, morphology and percentage of live sperm, blood level of follicle stimulating hormone, Luteinizing hormone and testosterone, hematological parameters, testis, epididymal and general body weights across the groups in a dose-depentant manner. The testis histoarchtecture showed normal cellular composition in their germinal epithelium, with sperm cells in the lumen and a normal interstitium.

Conclusion

This experiment revealed that aqueous extract of Solanum nigrum bears profertility properties which may be beneficial to those who consume it.

Effect of the Administration of Solanum nigrum Fruit on Prevention of Diabetic Nephropathy in Streptozotocin-induced Diabetic Rats

Background

Our previous study showed antidiabetic effect of aqueous extract of Solanum nigrum Linn fruit (SNE).

Objective

This study was designed to explore the antidiabetic and nephroprotective effects of SNE in diabetic rats.

Materials and Methods

Animals were divided into nine groups to undergo two experiment protocols: Two groups served as nondiabetic controls (NDCs), while the other groups had diabetes induced with a single injection of streptozotocin. SNE-treated diabetic (D-SNE) and SNE-treated controls (NDC-SNE) received 1 g/L of SNE added to the drinking water and insulin-treated diabetic (D-I) for 8 weeks. Furthermore, there were four groups (D-SNE, NDC-SNE, D-I, D) in the second protocol to examine diabetic nephropathy (DN) for 16 weeks. Blood urea nitrogen (BUN), creatinine (Cr) magnesium, nitric oxide (NO), and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels were measured. Both kidneys were isolated to measure MDA, NO levels, and renal damage.

Results

SNE could decrease blood glucose level in diabetic rats. In addition, SNE was more effective than insulin in controlling blood glucose. SNE could decrease BUN, Cr levels, and kidney weight and damage after 8 and 16 weeks of administration. Plasma and kidney levels of NO and MDA also decreased.

Conclusion

Our results support the hypothesis that SNE could play a role in the management of diabetes and the prevention of DN.

SUMMARY

The aqueous extract of Solanum nigrum Linn fruit (SNE) (1 g/L via drinking water) was studied on streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats to prevent diabetic nephropathy (DN). The results suggest that SNE in addition to the management of diabetes could have a beneficial effect on the prevention of DN. Abbreviations Used: SNE: Extract of Solanum nigrum Linn fruit, NDCs: Nondiabetic controls, STZ: Streptozotocin, D-SNE: SNE-treated diabetic, NDC-SNE: SNE-treated controls, D-I: Insulin-treated diabetic, BUN: Blood urea nitrogen, Cr: Creatinine, Mg: Magnesium, NO: Nitric oxide, MDA: Malondialdehyde, DN: Diabetic nephropathy, BW: Body weight, FBG: Fed blood glucose, KW: Kidney weight, TBA: Thiobarbituric acid, IPGTT: Intraperitoneal glucose tolerance test, AUC: Aria under the curve, GFR: Glomerular filtration rate.

Selected hepatoprotective herbal medicines: Evidence from ethnomedicinal applications, animal models, and possible mechanism of actions

Insight into the hepatoprotective effects of medicinally important plants is important, both for physicians and researchers. Main reasons for the use of herbal medicine include their lesser cost compared with conventional drugs, lesser undesirable drug reactions and thus high safety, and reduced side effects. The present review focuses on the composition, pharmacology, and results of experimental trials of selected medicinal plants: Silybum marianum (L.) Gaertn., Glycyrrhiza glabra, Phyllanthus amarus Schumach. & Thonn., Salvia miltiorrhiza Bunge., Astragalus membranaceus (Fisch.) Bunge, Capparis spinosa (L.), Cichorium intybus (L.), Solanum nigrum (L.), Sapindus mukorossi Gaertn., Ginkgo biloba (L.), Woodfordia fruticosa (L.) Kurz, Vitex trifolia (L.), Schisandra chinensis (Turcz.) Baill., Cuscuta chinensis (Lam.), Lycium barbarum, Angelica sinensis (Oliv.) Diels, and Litsea coreana (H. Lev.). The probable modes of action of these plants include immunomodulation, stimulation of hepatic DNA synthesis, simulation of superoxide dismutase and glutathione reductase to inhibit oxidation in hepatocytes, reduction of intracellular reactive oxygen species by enhancing levels of antioxidants, suppression of ethanol-induced lipid accumulation, inhibition of nucleic acid polymerases to downregulate viral mRNA transcription and translation, free radical scavenging and reduction of hepatic fibrosis by decreasing the levels of transforming growth factor beta-1, and collagen synthesis in hepatic cells. However, further research is needed to identify, characterize, and standardize the active ingredients, useful compounds, and their preparations for the treatment of liver diseases.

Aglycone solanidine and solasodine derivatives: A natural approach towards cancer

Over the past few years, it was suggested that a rational approach to treat cancer in clinical settings requires a multipronged approach that augments improvement in systemic efficiency along with modification in cellular phenotype leads to more efficient cell death response. Recently, the combinatory delivery of traditional chemotherapeutic drugs with natural compounds proved to be astonishing to deal with a variety of cancers, especially that are resistant to chemotherapeutic drugs. The natural compounds not only synergize the effects of chemotherapeutics but also minimize drug associated systemic toxicity. In this review, our primary focus was on antitumor effects of natural compounds. Previously, the drugs from natural sources are highly precise and safer than drugs of synthetic origins. Many natural compounds exhibit anti-cancer potentials by inducing apoptosis in different tumor models, in-vitro and in-vivo. Furthermore, natural compounds are also found equally useful in chemotherapeutic drug resistant tumors. Moreover, these Phyto-compounds also possess numerous other pharmacological properties such as antifungal, antimicrobial, antiprotozoal, and hepatoprotection. Aglycone solasodine and solanidine derivatives are the utmost important steroidal glycoalkaloids that are present in various Solanum species, are discussed here. These natural compounds are highly cytotoxic against different tumor cell lines. As the molecular weight is concerned; these are smaller molecular weight chemotherapeutic agents that induce cell death response by initiating apoptosis through both extrinsic and intrinsic pathways.

Solanum nigrum Unripe fruit fraction attenuates Adriamycin resistance by down-regulating multi-drug resistance protein (Mdr)-1 through Jak-STAT pathway

Background

Solanum nigrum, herbal plant that commonly grows in temperate climate zone, has been used as a traditional folk medicine whose ripen fruits were proven to exhibit anti-tumor properties. In traditional Chinese medicine, it has been used for centuries to cure inflammation, edema, mastitis and hepatic cancer and in the Ayurvedic system of traditional medicine in India, S. nigrum is applied against enteric diseases, ulcer, diarrhea and skin diseases. A methanolic glycosidic extract fraction of unripe fruit of S. nigrum (SNME) was investigated for its anticancer property and possible mechanism to surmount adriamycin resistance in NCI/ADR-RES cells.

Methods

The NCI/ADR-RES cells were treated with 7.8125, 15.625, 31.25, 62.5, 125 and 250 μg/ml of methanolic extract of S. nigrum (SNME) for 12, 24 and 48 h, to check the cell viability and proliferation. The cells were also exposed to adriamycin alone or in combination with SNME and the effects on cell growth were determined by MTT. Cell cycle analysis, Ethidium bromide and Acridine orange staining, Annexin-binding efficiency, nuclear condensation and DNA fragmentation of the apoptotic NCI/ADR-RES cells were also determined. To elucidate the relationship between SNME and multi drug resistance, we analyzed the expression levels of Mdr-1, JAK1, STAT3, and pSTAT3 in NCI/ADR-RES cells after treatment with SNME.

Results

Results from the cytotoxicity assay showed a direct correlation between the concentration of methanolic glycosidic extract fraction of S. nigrum (SNME) and the surviving cell population. Combination with Adriamycin, SNME exhibits a synergistic action on NCI/ADR-RES cells, giving the first line of evidence to overcoming Adriamycin resistance. The SNME mediated cell growth suppression was proven to be apoptotic, based on results obtained from DNA fragmentation, annexin V apoptosis assaay and PARP cleavage analysis. Looking into the molecular insight SNME surpasses the chemoresistance of NCI/ADR-RES cells by inhibiting the JAK-STAT3 signaling pathway through the down regulation of JAK1, STAT3, pSTAT3, and Mdr1 expression.

Conclusions

Collectively our findings suggest that unripe fruit of Solanum nigrum could possibly be used as a chemosensitizing agent against Adriamycin resistant cancers.

Hepatoprotective effects of Solanum nigrum Linn fruits against cadmium chloride toxicity in albino rats

The present work is aimed to investigate the toxicity of 1/20 LD50 of cadmium chloride (CdCl2) on male albino rats by oral ingestion and to determine the hepatoprotective effect of Solanum nigrum Linn (SN) dried fruits and their ethanolic extract against CdCl2 toxicity using biochemical parameters. Rats were divided into six groups; the first group is control, second group is CdCl2-intoxicated rats, third group is fed with a semi-modified diet with S. nigrum fruits, fourth group rats ingested with dried extract, and intoxicated rats (groups 5 and 6) were treated with fruits and ethanolic extract of S. nigrum, respectively. The results showed that rats exposed to CdCl2 induced remarkable decrease in body weight gain, feed efficiency, and Hb, Hct, RBC, and WBC count and MCHC, but increase in MCV and MCH values. In the case of plasma enzymes, there were significant stimulations observed in ALT and AST, acid phosphatase, alkaline phosphatase, and LDH activities of CdCl2-intoxicated rats (group 2) compared to control (group 1). Plasma protein profile showed decreases in total soluble protein and albumin; also globulin content was decreased by CdCl2 ingestion. Under the same condition, plasma total bilirubin and glucose levels were increased in group 2. In addition, lipid peroxidation and antioxidative system (GSH, catalase, and SOD) of liver were harmed by CdCl2 ingestion. Whereas, normal rats treated with SN showed insignificant changes in groups 3 and 4 as compared to control (group 1). The treatment with dried fruits and their ethanolic extract in CdCl2-intoxicated rats (groups 5 and 6) ameliorated and improved these harmful effects in all above parameters either for blood or liver. The results of this study suggest the protective effect of S. nigrum against liver injury happened by CdCl2 which may be attributed to its hepatoprotective activity and thereby.

Regeneration of Solanum nigrum by somatic embryogenesis, involving frog egg-like body, a novel structure

A new protocol was established for the regeneration of Solanum nigrum by frog egg-like bodies (FELBs), which are novel somatic embryogenesis (SE) structures induced from the root, stem, and leaf explants. The root, stem, and leaf explants (93.33%, 85.10%, and 100.00%, respectively) were induced to form special embryonic calli on Murashige and Skoog (MS) medium containing 1.0 mg/L 2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid, under dark condition. Further, special embryonic calli from the root, stem, and leaf explants (86.97%, 83.30%, and 99.47%, respectively) were developed into FELBs. Plantlets of FELBs from the three explants were induced in vitro on MS medium supplemented with 5.0 mg/L 6-benzylaminopurine and 0.1 mg/L gibberellic acid, and 100.00% plantlet induction rates were noted. However, plantlet induction in vivo on MS medium supplemented with 20 mg/L thidiazuron showed rates of 38.63%, 15.63%, and 61.30% for the root, stem, and leaf explants, respectively, which were lower than those of the in vitro culture. Morphological and histological analyses of FELBs at different development stages revealed that they are a novel type of SE structure that developed from the mesophyll (leaf) or cortex (stem and root) cells of S. nigrum.

In vitro evaluation of nematicidal properties of Solanum sisymbriifolium and S. nigrum extracts on Pratylenchus goodeyi

The root-lesion nematode, Pratylenchus goodeyi, is among the most economically damaging parasites of banana plants. Nematode control can benefit from searching for novel bio-nematicides. The present study was carried out to assess the potential nematicidal properties of two Solanum species (Solanum sisymbriifolium and S. nigrum) against P. goodeyi, using dichloromethane, acetone, ethanol and either cold or hot water extracts of the plants. Water extracts of both plants at a concentration of 10 mg ml−1 greatly affected nematode movement and also caused mortality. The analysis of sequential extracts at the same experimental concentrations showed that, although water extracts affect nematode mobility and mortality, the acetone extract from S. nigrum was the most efficient, causing 100% mortality after 23 h exposure. The results showed that S. sisymbriifolium and S. nigrum extracts contain chemical components that induce morphological changes in the body structure of the root-lesion nematode, affect mobility and cause mortality. The nematostatic and nematicidal potential of the extracts described herein merit further studies to find novel bio-nematicides against the root-lesion nematode.

Antioxidant effect of methanolic extract ofSolanum nigrum berries on aspirin induced gastric mucosal injury

The antiulcerogenic effects of the methanolic extract ofSolanum nigrum berries (SBE) on aspirin induced ulceration in rats with respect to antioxidant status in the gastric mucosa have been investigated. Oxygen free radicals are considered to be important factors in the pathogenesis of gastric ulcer. The level of lipid peroxides, which were elevated highly in rats with acute gastric mucosal injury was taken as an index of oxidative stress. The activities of antioxidant defense enzymes were also decreased considerably by oral gastric administration of aspirin. The decreased levels of antioxidant enzymes and increased mucosal injury were altered to near normal status upon pretreatment with (SBE) when compared to the ulcer induced rats. The results indicate that (SBE) may exert its gastroprotective effect by a free radical scavenging action. Our observations suggest that (SBE) may have considerable therapeutic potential in the treatment of gastric diseases.

Selective cell cycle arrest and induction of apoptosis in human prostate cancer cells by a polyphenol-rich extract of Solanum nigrum

Progression of prostate cancer is associated with escape of tumor cells from cell cycle arrest and apoptosis. Agents capable of selectively eliminating cancer cells by cell cycle arrest and/or induction of apoptosis offer a highly desirable approach. Here we demonstrate that a polyphenolic extract derived from ripe berries of Solanum nigrum (SN) differentially causes cell cycle arrest and apoptosis in various human prostate cancer cells without affecting normal prostate epithelial cells. Virally transformed normal human prostate epithelial PZ-HPV-7 cells and their cancer counterpart CA-HPV-10 cells, were used to evaluate the growth-inhibitory effects of the SN extract. SN treatment (5-20 µg/ml) of PZ-HPV-7 cells resulted in growth inhibitory responses of low magnitude. In sharp contrast, SN treatment of CA-HPV-10 cells increased cytotoxicity, decreased cell viability and induced apoptosis. Similar results were noted in the human prostate cancer LNCaP, 22Rv1, DU145 and PC-3 cell lines, where significant reductions in cell viability and induction of apoptosis was observed in all these cells, an effect independent of disease stage and androgen association. Cell cycle analysis revealed that SN treatment (5-20 µg/ml) resulted in a dose-dependent G2/M phase arrest and subG1 accumulation in the CA-HPV-10 but not in the PZ-HPV-7 cell line. Our results, for the first time, demonstrate that the SN extract is capable of selectively inhibiting cellular proliferation and accelerating apoptotic events in prostate cancer cells. SN may be developed as a promising therapeutic and/or preventive agent against prostate cancer.

Induction of apoptosis in human hepatoma SMMC-7721 cells by solamargine from Solanum nigrum L

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Solanum nigrum L. (SNL), a traditional Chinese medicinal herb endowed with diuretic, antipyretic and hepatoprotective effects, has been used as a major ingredient of folk prescriptions for anticancer treatment in China.

AIM OF THE STUDY

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the inhibitory effect of solamargine (SM), a major steroidal alkaloid glycoside purified from SNL, on human hepatoma SMMC-7721 cells and investigate the possible mechanism of SM.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The MTT assay was used to evaluate the IC(50) on tumor cell lines. The effect on morphology was observed with a light or fluorescence microscopy. The rate of apoptosis and the cell cycle were measured using flow cytometry (FCM). The expression of caspase-3 protein was measured by colorimetric assay.

RESULTS

SM significantly inhibited the growth of SMMC-7721 and HepG2 cells and induced cell apoptosis. Cell cycle analysis revealed that SM caused cell cycle arrest at the G2/M phase. Moreover, SM could up-regulate the expression of caspase-3.

CONCLUSIONS

This study indicated that SM exerted potential anticancer activity on SMMC-7721 cells in vitro through the activation of caspase-3 and the regulation of the cell cycle progression to induce apoptosis and inhibit hepatoma cells proliferation.

Solanum nigrum L. polyphenolic extract inhibits hepatocarcinoma cell growth by inducing G2/M phase arrest and apoptosis

BACKGROUND

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a rapidly progressive cancer with poor prognosis. However, there have been no significant new developments in treating liver cancer. To search for an effective agent against HCC progression, we prepared a polyphenolic extract of Solanum nigrum L. (SNPE), a herbal plant indigenous to Southeast Asia and commonly used in oriental medicine, to evaluate its inhibitive effect on hepatocarcinoma cell growth. The growth inhibition of HepG2 cells in vitro and in vivo was determined in the presence of SNPE.

RESULTS

We found 1 µg mL(-1) SNPE-fed mice showed decreased tumor weight and tumor volume by 90%. Notably, 2 µg mL(-1) SNPE resulted in almost complete inhibition of tumor weight as well as tumor volume. In line with this notion, SNPE reduced the viability of HepG(2) cells in a dose-dependent manner. HepG(2) cells were arrested in the G(2)/M phase of the cell cycle; meanwhile, the protein levels of cell CDC25A, CDC25B, and CDC25C were clearly reduced. Moreover, sub-G(1) phase accumulation and caspases-3, 8, and 9 cleavages were induced by SNPE.

CONCLUSION

This study shows that SNPE is a potent agent for HCC treatment through targeting G(2)/M arrest and apoptosis induction, achieving cell growth inhibition.

Chemical composition of Solanum nigrum linn extract and induction of autophagy by leaf water extract and its major flavonoids in AU565 breast cancer cells

Solanum nigrum Linn (SN) belongs to the Solanaceae family, is a plant growing widely in south Asia, and has been used in traditional folk medicine. It is believed to have antipyretic, diuretic, anticancer, and hepatoprotective effects. During the summertime, this plant has been heavily used to supplement beverages to quench thirst on hot days in Taiwan and several southern Asian countries. In this study, the polyphenols and anthocyanidin in various parts of the SN plant were analyzed by HPLC. The leaves were found to be richer in polyphenols than stem and fruit. SN leaves contained the highest concentration of gentisic acid, luteolin, apigenin, kaempferol, and m-coumaric acid. However, the anthocyanidin existed only in the purple fruits. Additionally, the cytotoxicity of the leaf, stem, or fruit extract was evaluated against cancer cell lines and normal cells. The results showed that AU565 breast cancer cells were more sensitive to the extract. Furthermore, the results demonstrated a significant cytotoxic effect of SN leaf extract on AU565 cells that was mediated via two different mechanisms depending on the exposure concentrations. A low dose of SN leaf extract induced autophagy but not apoptosis. Higher doses (>100 microg/mL) of SN leaf extract could inhibit the level of p-Akt and cause cell death due to the induction of autophagy and apoptosis. However, these findings indicate that SN leaf extract induced cell death in breast cells via two distinct antineoplastic activities, the abilities to induce apoptosis and autophagy, therefore suggesting that it may provide a useful remedy to treat breast cancer.

Protective effects of fraction 1a of polysaccharides isolated from Solanum nigrum Linne on thymus in tumor-bearing mice

AIM OF THE STUDY

To further screen out the anti-tumor active compound of polysaccharides isolated from Solanum nigrum Linne (SNL-P), which had shown to have anti-cervical cancer and modulating properties, and evaluate the thymus protective effects of this active compound.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

SNL-P was separated and purified by column chromatography, and its anti-cervical cancer activity was evaluated by mice models injected of ascites U14 cells. Furthermore, the protective effect of fraction 1a of SNL-P (SNL-P1a) on the thymus tissue of tumor-bearing mice was evaluated by histological study and TUNEL staining. Finally, the protein expression of Bcl-2 and Bax gene were assayed by immunohistochemistry.

RESULTS

SNL-P1a has shown a marked inhibition effect on U14 cevical cancer, it restore the ratio of CD4(+)/CD8(+) peripheral blood T-lymphocyte subpopulation. Histological study and TUNEL staining results showed that SNL-P1a protect thymus tissue against the onslaught of tumor by inhibiting thymus lymphocyte apoptosis, and immunohistochemistry assay displayed that SNL-P1a treatment could increase Bcl-2/Bax ratio in thymus lymphocytes of tumor-bearer, which might promote more thymus lymphocytes towards proliferation.

CONCLUSION

SNL-P1a had significant growth inhibition effect on U14 cervical cancer and protective effect on thymus tissue of tumor-bearing mice.

Antitumor and immunomodulating effects of polysaccharides isolated from Solanum nigrum Linne

We have examined the effects of the crude polysaccharides isolated from Solanum nigrum Linne (SNL-P) in vitro and in vivo against U14 cervical cancer. SNL-P showed no antiproliferative effects in vitro at a dose up to 1 mg/ml. In vivo administration with SNL-P (90, 180, 360 mg/kg b.w., p.o.) decreased the number of ascites tumor cells and prolonged the survival time of U14 cervical-cancer-bearing mice. FACScan flow cytometer analysis showed that most of the ascites tumor cells were arrested in G2/M phase of cell cycle and the ratio of CD4+/CD8+ peripheral blood T-lymphocyte subpopulations were restored following treatment of SNL-P. Furthermore, the treatment with SNL-P also caused a significant increment in IFN-gamma (p < 0.01, 90, 180 and 360 mg/kg b.w.) and a remarkable decrease in Il-4 (p < 0.01, 90, 180 mg/kg b.w.; p < 0.05, 360 mg/kg b.w.) by the method of ELISA. These data showed that SNL-P possess potent antitumor activity and SNL-P might exert antitumor activity via activation of different immune responses in the host rather than by directly attacking cancer cells on the U14 cervical cancer bearing mice. Thus, SNL-P could be used as an immunomodulator and an anticancer agent.

Antioxidant and antihyperlipidemic effect of Solanum nigrum fruit extract on the experimental model against chronic ethanol toxicity

The possible protective effect of Solanum nigrum fruit extract (SNFEt) was investigated for its antioxidant and antihyperlipidemic activity against ethanol-induced toxicity in rats. The experimental animals were intoxicated with 20% ethanol (7.9 g/kg/day) for 30 days via gastric intubation. SNFEt was administered at the dose of 250 mg/kg body weight along with the daily dose of ethanol for 30 days. From the result it was observed that ethanol-induced rats showed a significant elevation in the levels of Thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS), which lowered the antioxidant defense systems, such as, reduced glutathione (GSH) and vitamins C and E, when compared to the controls. In the lipid profiles, the levels of total cholesterol (TC), triglycerides (TG), low density lipoproteins (LDL), very low density lipoproteins (VLDL), free fatty acids (FFA), and phospholipids were significantly elevated in the ethanol-induced group, whereas, the high density lipoproteins (HDL) were found to be reduced in the plasma, and the phospholipid levels were significantly decreased in the tissues. Supplementation of SNFEt improved the antioxidant status by decreasing the levels of TBARS and altering the lipid profiles to near normal. These activities were also compared to the standard drug silymarin (25 mg/kg body weight). Thus the findings of the present study indicated a significant antioxidant and antihyperlipidemic activity of Solanum nigrum fruits, which offered protection against ethanol-induced toxicity.

Aqueous extract of Solanum nigrum inhibit growth of cervical carcinoma (U14) via modulating immune response of tumor bearing mice and inducing apoptosis of tumor cells

To explore the antitumor activity of aqueous extract of Solanum nigrum (SNL-AE) and its possible mechanism, we examined the effects of SNL-AE on the tumor growth in vivo, the number of CD4+, CD8+ T lymphocyte subsets of peripheral blood in tumor-bearing mice by means of FACScan flow cytometer, the expression of PCNA in U14 cervical carcinoma section by means of immunohistochemistry SP method, the cell cycle of transplanted tumor by means of FACScan flow cytometer and DNA fragmentation by means of agarose gel electrophoresis. Our results showed that SNL-AE could inhibit U14 cervical carcinoma growth and increased the number of CD4+ T lymphocyte subsets as well as the ratio of CD4+/CD8+ T lymphocyte, decreased the number of CD8+ T lymphocyte subsets of tumor-bearing mice and PCNA positive cells. Furthermore, it had the abilities to cause cell cycle arrest in G0/G1 phase and to induce apoptosis of more transplanted tumor cells in a dose-dependent manner. These results indicated that SNL-AE could suppress the cervical carcinoma via modulating immune response of the tumor-bearing mice and causing tumor cell cycle arrest in G0/G1 phase, as well as inducing apoptosis with little toxicity to the animals.

Induction of autophagy and apoptosis by the extract of Solanum nigrum Linn in HepG2 cells

Solanum nigrum L. (SN) has been used in traditional folk medicine to treat different cancers. It is also used as a hepatoprotective and anti-inflammatory agent. In this study, we demonstrated that the extract of SN (SNE) induced a strong cytotoxic effect toward HepG2 cells but much less to Chang liver and WRL-68 cells. The mechanisms of the cytotoxic effect were concentration-dependent. High doses of SNE (2 and 5 mg/mL) induced apoptotic cell death in HepG2 cells, as evidenced by increases in the expressions of p-JNK and Bax, mitochodrial release of cytochrome c, and caspase activation. On the other hand, cells treated with low concentrations of SNE (50-1000 microg/mL) revealed morphological and ultrastructural changes of autophagocytic death under electron microscopic observation. Furthermore, these cells showed increased levels of autophagic vacuoles and LC3-I and LC3-II proteins, specific markers of autophagy. The levels of Bcl-2 and Akt that have been implicated in the down-regulation of autophagy were decreased upon SNE treatment. Taken together, these findings indicate that SNE induced cell death in hepatoma cells via two distinct antineoplastic activities of SNE, the ability to induce apoptosis and autophagocytosis, therefore suggesting that it may provide leverage to treat liver cancer.

Antitumor activity of crude polysaccharides isolated fromSolanum nigrum Linne on U14 cervical carcinoma bearing mice

Solanum nigrum Linne (SNL) has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for centuries because of its diuretic and antipyretic effects. The present study examined the effect of the crude polysaccharides isolated from Solanum nigrum Linne (SNL-P) on tumor growth. SNL-P had a significant growth inhibition effect on cervical cancer (U14) of tumor-bearing mice. Further analysis of the tumor inhibition mechanism indicated that the number of apoptotic tumor cells increased significantly, the expression of Bax increased and the expression of Bcl-2 and mutant p53 decreased dramatically in cervical cancer sections after oral administration of SNL-P for 12 days. Moreover, SNL-P treatment decreased the level of blood serum TNF-alpha. These results indicated that the tumor growth inhibition of SNL-P administration might correlate with the reduction of TNF-alpha level of blood serum, which resulted in a massive necrosis in tumor tissues and the up-regulation of Bax and down-regulation of Bcl-2 and mutant p53 gene expression, which triggered apoptosis in tumor cells. These findings demonstrated that the SNL-P is a potential antitumor agent.

Antinociceptive, Anti-inflammatory and Antipyretic Effects of Solanum nigrum Chloroform Extract in Animal Models

AIM

The present study was carried out to evaluate the antinociceptive, anti-inflammatory and antipyretic effects of chloroform extract of Solanum nigrum leaves using various animal models.

METHODS

The extract was prepared by soaking (1:20; w/v) the air-dried powdered leaves (20 g) in chloroform for 72 hrs followed by evaporation (40 degrees C) under reduced pressure to dryness (1.26 g) and then dissolved (1:50; w/v) in dimethylsulfoxide (DMSO). The supernatant, considered as the stock solution with dose of 200 mg/kg, was diluted using DMSO to 20 and 100 mg/kg, and all doses were administered (s.c.; 10 ml/kg) in mice/rats 30 min prior to tests.

RESULTS

The extract exhibited significant (p<0.05) antinociceptive activity when assessed using the abdominal constriction, hot plate and formalin tests. The extract also produced significant (p<0.05) anti-inflammatory and antipyretic activities when assessed using the carrageenan-induced paw edema and brewer's yeast-induced pyrexia tests. Overall, the activities occurred in a dose-independent manner.

CONCLUSION

The present study demonstrated that the lipid-soluble extract of S. nigrum leaves possessed antinociceptive, anti-inflammatory and anti-pyretic properties and confirmed the traditional claims.

Antiulcerogenic and ulcer healing effects of Solanum nigrum (L.) on experimental ulcer models: possible mechanism for the inhibition of acid formation

Solanum nigrum, an herbal plant which is recommended in ayurveda for the management of gastric ulcers. Therefore, the purpose of the study was to investigate the antiulcer effect of Solanum nigrum fruits extract (SNE) on cold restraint stress (CRU), indomethacin (IND), pyloric ligation (PL) and ethanol (EtOH) induced gastric ulcer models and ulcer healing activity on acetic acid induced ulcer model in rats. The treatment with SNE at higher dose significantly inhibited the gastric lesions induced by CRU (76.6%), IND (73.8%), PL (80.1%) and EtOH (70.6%), respectively, with equal or higher potency than omeprazole. SNE showed concomitant attenuation of gastric secretory volume, acidity and pepsin secretion in ulcerated rats. In addition, SNE (200 and 400mg/kgb.w.) accelerated the healing of acetic acid induced ulcers after the treatment for 7 days. Further, to ascertain the antisecretory action, the effects of SNE on H(+)K(+)ATPase activity and plasma concentration of gastrin hormone in ulcerated rats were determined. SNE significantly inhibits H(+)K(+)ATPase activity and decreases the gastrin secretion in EtOH-induced ulcer model. The severity of the reaction of ulcerogen and the reduction of ulcer size by SNE was evident by histological findings. Toxicity studies of SNE have also been carried out for its safety evaluation. SNE, thus, offers antiulcer activity by blocking acid secretion through inhibition of H(+)K(+)ATPase and decrease of gastrin secretion. These results further suggest that SNE was found to possess antiulcerogenic as well as ulcer healing properties, which might also be due to its antisecretory activity.

Solanum nigrum produces nitric oxide via nuclear factor-kappaB activation in mouse peritoneal macrophages

Nitric oxide (NO) is an antitumour molecule produced in activated macrophages and Solanum nigrum is a plant used in oriental medicine to treat tumours. In this study using mouse peritoneal macrophages, we have examined the mechanism by which Solanum nigrum regulates NO production. When Solanum nigrum was used in combination with 20 U/ml of recombinant interferon-gamma (rIFN-gamma), there was a marked cooperative induction of NO production. The increase in NO synthesis was reflected as an increased amount of inducible NO synthase (iNOS) protein. The production of NO from rIFN-gamma plus Solanum nigrum-stimulated peritoneal macrophages was decreased by treatment with N-monomethyl-L-arginine or N-tosyl-Phe chloromethyl ketone, an iNOS inhibitor. Additionally, the increased production of NO from rIFN-gamma plus Solanum nigrum-stimulated cells was almost completely inhibited by pretreatment with 100 micromol/l of pyrrolidine dithiocarbamate, an inhibitor of nuclear factor kappaB (NF-kappaB). Furthermore, Solanum nigrum increased activation of NF-kappaB. These findings suggest that Solanum nigrum increases the production of NO by rIFN-gamma-primed macrophages and NF-kappaB plays a critical role in mediating these effects.

Glycoprotein Isolated fromSolanum nigrumL. Kills HT-29 Cells Through Apoptosis

Solanum nigrum L. (SNL) has been used in folk medicine for its anti-inflammatory activity. We previously isolated glycoprotein from SNL and observed that it decreased viable HT-29 cell numbers at a low concentration (60 microg/mL). This study investigated the apoptotic signal pathway triggered by glycoprotein isolated from SNL in HT-29 cells. Treatment of HT-29 cells with SNL glycoprotein (60 microg/mL) for 4 hours resulted in a cytotoxic effect of more than 60%, compared with the control. To explain the apoptotic effects of SNL glycoprotein, we investigated its effects on 12-O-tetradecanoylphorbol 13-acetate (TPA)-stimulated protein kinase C (PKC) alpha activity and DNA-binding activity of nuclear factor (NF) kappaB in HT-29 cells, using western blot analysis and electrophoretic mobility shift assays. Results from these experiments showed that SNL glycoprotein has remarkable inhibitory effects on the activities of TPA (100 nM)-stimulated PKCalpha and NF-kappaB in HT-29 cells. They also substantiated that PKCalpha is a part of the TPA-activated upstream signal pathway of NF-kappaB, since NF-kappaB activity was inhibited by staurosporine (a PKC inhibitor) and pyrrolidine dithiocarbamate (an NF-kappaB inhibitor) in a western blot analysis. Furthermore, to verify the triggering of apoptosis by the SNL glycoprotein, we performed DNA fragmentation, nuclear staining, and protein expression assays of apoptotic-related proteins. The amount of DNA fragmentation and apoptotic cell numbers increased in a dose-dependent manner after treatment with SNL glycoprotein. Apoptosis-related protein assays demonstrated that SNL glycoprotein-induced apoptosis is associated with the regulation of bcl-2 and Bax expression. Taken together, the results of this study showed that the activation of PKCalpha, NF-kappaB, and Bax expression by SNL glycoprotein is possibly involved in the apoptotic process. Consequently, these results indicate that SNL glycoprotein causes HT-29 cell death through apoptosis by its ability to modulate anti-apoptotic signals. We suggest that SNL glycoprotein is a natural anti-cancer agent due to its potential to induce apoptosis in HT-29 cells.

150kDa glycoprotein isolated from Solanum nigrum Linne enhances activities of detoxicant enzymes and lowers plasmic cholesterol in mouse

This study was carried out to investigate the modulation of detoxicant enzyme activity and plasma lipidemic levels by 150 kDa glycoprotein isolated from Solanum nigrum Linne (SNL), which has been used as a hepatoprotective and anticancer agent in folk medicine. Our results in this study showed that SNL glycoprotein has a band with 150 kDa on the 10% sodium dodecyl sulfate polyacrylamide gel, and that it has a strong scavenging activity against lipid peroxyl radicals. We also evaluated the lipidemic levels of SNL glycoprotein, based on lipoproteins and activities of detoxicant enzymes in treatment with Triton WR-1339 or corn oil in vivo. When mice were treated with either Triton WR-1339 or corn oil in the absence of SNL glycoprotein, the number of plasma lipoproteins [triglyceride (TG), total cholesterol (TC) and low density lipoprotein (LDL)] increased. However, when the mice were treated with either Triton WR-1339 or corn oil in the presence of SNL glycoprotein, the plasma lipoprotein levels (TG, TC and LDL) were significantly reduced. Similar results of SNL glycoprotein treatment were also produced in the activities of detoxicant enzymes. Namely, the activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT) and glutathione peroxidase (GPx) were remarkably increased after treatment with SNL glycoprotein. In addition, the activity of hepatic 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl coenzyme A (HMG-CoA) reductase was reduced by SNL glycoprotein in cholestyramine-treated mice. For example, we found that it inhibits the activity of cholestyramine-induced hepatic HMG-CoA reductase at 40 microg head body weight g(-1) SNL glycoprotein. Collectively, these results pointed out that SNL glycoprotein can enhance the activities of detoxicant enzymes and bring about the inhibition of HMG-CoA reductase activity in vivo. Therefore, we speculate that SNL glycoprotein can be used as a cholesterol-lowering agent even at low concentrations.

Glycoprotein Isolated fromSolanum nigrumL. Modulates the Apoptotic-Related Signals in 12-O-Tetradecanoylphorbol 13-Acetate-Stimulated MCF-7 Cells

Solanum nigrum L. (SNL) has been used in folk medicine for its anti-inflammatory activity. We isolated only the SNL glycoprotein from SNL and found that it was cytotoxic at low concentration. With respect to cytotoxicity, we investigated whether purified SNL glycoprotein is able to regulate protein kinase C (PKC) alpha activation and nuclear factor (NF)- kappaB activities in 12-O-tetradecanoylphorbol 13-acetate (TPA)-induced tumor promotion, and whether it has an apoptosis-inducing effect in MCF-7 cells using western blot analysis. In addition, to elucidate the relationship between PKCalpha and NF-kappaB, inhibitory studies were performed with staurosporine (an inhibitor of phospholipid/calcium-dependent protein kinase) and pyrrolidine dithiocarbamate (an inhibitor of NF-kappaB activation). To verify induction of apoptosis by the SNL glycoprotein, we performed DNA fragmentation and nuclear staining assays using ethidium bromide and bisbenzamide H33342. The results in this study indicated that SNL glycoprotein induces apoptosis through modulation of PKCalpha and NF-kappaB activity in MCF-7 cells. In fact, SNL glycoprotein interfered with PKCalpha membrane translocation and inhibited NF-kappaB (p50) protein activity in MCF-7 cells stimulated with TPA (61.68 ng/mL, 100 nM) dose-dependently. Regarding the apoptotic-inducing effect, nucleosomal DNA fragmentation and nuclear staining by SNL glycoprotein in MCF-7 cells were shown. Collectively, the data demonstrate that SNL glycoprotein is a potential natural anticancer agent because of its ability to induce apoptosis in MCF-7 cells.

Glycoprotein isolated from Solanum nigrum L. inhibits the DNA-binding activities of NF-κB and AP-1, and increases the production of nitric oxide in TPA-stimulated MCF-7 cells

Solanum nigrum L. (SNL) has been used in traditional folk medicine to treat numerous cancers. We isolated a glycoprotein (150 kDa) from SNL and tested its effect on the modulation of transcriptional factors (NF-kappa B and AP-1) and iNO production in TPA induced-MCF-7 cells, which are part of the human breast cancer cell line, without estrogen receptors. However, the mechanism of SNL glycoprotein in pharmacological and biochemical actions in cancer cells has not been studied. To test the effect of SNL glycoprotein on the DNA-binding activities of nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-kappaB) and activator protein-1 (AP-1), and nitric oxide (NO) production, these experiments were carried out using electrophoretic mobility shift assays (EMSA), western blot analysis, and the Griess method. Results in this experiment showed that SNL glycoprotein inhibits 12-O-Tetra decanoylphorbol-13-acetate (TPA; 100 nM)-induced DNA-binding activities of NF-kappaB and AP-1, and enhances NO production in MCF-7 cells. That is, our results indicated that SNL glycoprotein has the capacity to modulate the TPA-induced DNA-binding activities of transcription factors and NO production, which play a critical role with respect to cytotoxicity in MCF-7 cells. Therefore, SNL glycoprotein might be one of the agents that blocks TPA-mediated signal responses in tumor cells.

Effect of dried fruits of Solanum nigrum LINN against CCl4-induced hepatic damage in rats

Ethanol extract of Solanum nigrum LINN was investigated for its hepatoprotective activity against CCl4-induced hepatic damage in rats. The ethanol extract showed remarkable hepatoprotective activity. The activity was evaluated using biochemical parameters such as serum aspartate amino transferase (AST), alanine amino transferase (ALT), alkaline phosphatase (ALP) and total bilirubin. The histopathological changes of liver sample in treated animals were compared with respect to control.

Enhancement of ovalbumin-specific IgA responses via oral boosting with antigen co-administered with an aqueous Solanum torvum extract

An experiment was conducted with the objective to enhance mucosal immunity against ovalbumin (OVA) by co-administration of OVA with an aqueous extract from the fruit of Solanum torvum (STE). Five groups of female ICR mice aged approximately 8 weeks at the commencement of the experiment were caged in groups of eight and received various treatments. The treatments included OVA alone, OVA with cholera toxin (CT), and OVA with various doses of STE. Mice were primed intraperitoneally with 500 microg of OVA alone or co-administered with 0.1 microg CT, or with 1 microg STE. All mice were boosted orally via gastric intubation 14 days after priming with 10 mg OVA alone, or co-administered with 10 microg CT or with 10 mg, 1 mg or 0.1 mg STE. One week later all mice were killed and organs obtained for analysis of the immune response. Intestinal, faecal and pulmonary OVA-specific sIgA concentration was significantly increased (p<0.05) in mice that received booster combinations of OVA/CT and OVA with all extract doses (p<0.05). Specific serum IgG titres did not differ significantly between groups. It is concluded that STE can significantly enhance secretory immunity in the intestine to OVA with mucosal homing to the lungs. The adjuvant effect of STE is comparable to that of CT.

Cytotoxic effect of glycoprotein isolated from Solanum nigrum L. through the inhibition of hydroxyl radical-induced DNA-binding activities of NF-kappa B in HT-29 cells

Solanum nigrum L. (SNL) has been traditionally used as an herbal plant for a long time. In the present study, SNL glycoprotein showed a dose-dependent radical scavenging activity on radicals, including 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radicals, hydroxyl radical (OH), and superoxide anion (O(2)(-)). When the HT-29 cells were treated with 60μg/ml SNL glycoprotein, the cytotoxic effect was induced in a time-dependent manner. More specifically, it was more than 60% (P<0.01) after 4h, compared to the control. On the other hand, the cells treated with 100mU/ml glucose oxidase (GO) to generate the OH radical showed a cancer resistance up to 12h. Furthermore, the addition of GO to the SNL glycoprotein caused a strong cytotoxic effect, rather than a radical scavenging effect. Interestingly, when the cells were exposed to 100mU/ml GO for 4h, the DNA-binding activity of nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) was increased 4.15-fold (P<0.01) compared to the control, whereas 40μg/ml SNL glycoprotein completely blocked the DNA-binding activity of OH radical-induced NF-κB by electrophoretic mobility shift assays (EMSAs). Apoptosis, according to the apoptosis assay, increased as a result of treatment with 40μg/ml SNL glycoprotein in a time-dependent manner, whereas they were weakly induced by GO in the cells. Consequently, the SNL glycoprotein may induce apoptosis through the inhibition of NF-κB activation, induced by oxidative stress in HT-29 cells.

Ripe fruit of Solanum nigrum L. inhibits cell growth and induces apoptosis in MCF-7 cells

Solanum nigrum L. (SNL) has been traditionally used as a herbal plant, whose fruit is believed to have anti-tumor properties, although the mechanism for the activity remains to be elucidated. In this study, we prepared an ethanol extract from ripe fruits of SNL and investigated the mechanism involved in its growth-inhibitory effect on MCF-7 human breast cancer cells. Results from proliferation assay using tritium uptake showed that the proliferative capacity of MCF-7 cells was strongly suppressed in the presence of SNL ethanol extract. This was further confirmed through MTT assay and trypan blue exclusion experiments, which showed a very close correlation between the SNL extract concentration and the surviving cell numbers. The SNL extract-mediated suppression of cell growth was verified to be apoptotic, based on the appearance of DNA laddering, increase in DNA fragmentation, and low fluorescence intensity in nuclei after propidium iodide staining of the cells. Furthermore, the SNL extract was revealed to be a potential scavenger of hydroxyl radicals and DPPH radicals rather than superoxide anions. Collectively, our findings suggest that SNL fruit extract could be used as an anti-oxidant and cancer chemo-preventive material.