Garlic (Allium sativum): diet based therapy of 21st century–a review

Basic Chemical Composition, Antioxidant Activity and Selected Polyphenolic Compounds Profile in Garlic Leaves and Bulbs Collected at Various Stages of Development

Garlic is commonly used as vegetable or spice and as a herb in folklore as well as traditional medicine in many countries. The current study aimed to compare the chemical composition, antioxidant activity, and the content of selected polyphenolic compounds in cloves as well as leaves of winter garlic plants of the Harnaś and Ornak cultivars, which are of Polish origin. Garlic was grown from cloves for three years (2018-2020) in the experimental field of the University of Agriculture in Krakow, Poland. The research material was harvested on three dates: May; June, unripe garlic plants; and in July, the plant at full maturity. The content of vitamin C in the fresh material was determined. The proximate analysis was determined in the freeze-dried plants of garlic, and the total carbohydrate content was calculated. The antioxidant activity and the content of selected polyphenolic compounds were also determined. Garlic cloves showed a higher content of dry matter, and total carbohydrates than the leaves of garlic plants. On the other hand, in the leaves, a significantly higher content of protein, total fat and ash were observed. Additionally, garlic leaves were characterised by a higher content of vitamin C, total polyphenols, and a higher antioxidant activity than garlic cloves. The leaves of young garlic plants from the May harvest were distinguished by a higher content of these compounds. The dominant phenolic compounds were catechin and epicatechin. The leaves of young plants can be a valuable source of bioactive substances, especially in early spring.

Beneficial Effects of Daily Consumption of Garlic and Onion Extract Concentrate on Infectious Respiratory Diseases in Elderly Resident Volunteers

Aging is a biological process with high susceptibility to several infections. This risk increases in older patients in residential care facilities (RCF). Thus, there is a clear demand for developing preventive interventions with new therapeutic compounds that combine efficacy and safety. This could be the case of compounds derived from plants of the genus Allium spp. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the impact of a combination of a garlic and onion extract concentrate standardized in organosulfur compounds derived from propiin on the incidence of respiratory tract infections in elderly patients of RCF. Sixty-five volunteers were selected at random to receive a placebo or a single daily dose of the extract for thirty-six weeks. Different clinical visits were performed to evaluate the main respiratory diseases with an infectious origin, as well as the associated symptoms and their duration. The extract showed a clinical safety profile and significantly reduced the incidence of respiratory infections. Moreover, the treatment decreased the number and duration of the associated symptoms compared with the placebo group. For the first time, we demonstrated the protective effect of Alliaceae extract in respiratory infectious diseases in elderly healthy volunteers, which could be used prophylactically against the most common infectious respiratory diseases.

Immunomodulatory and antioxidant effect of green synthesized titanium dioxide nanoparticles on pregnant female albino rats and their fetuses

Titanium dioxide nanoparticles (TiO2 NPs) are one of the various nanoparticles that have been increasingly commonly used in vital sectors. This study was aimed at evaluating the effects of prenatal exposure to the chemical TiO2 NPs (CHTiO2 NPs) and green-synthesized TiO2 NPs (GTiO2 NPs) on immunological and oxidative status as well as lungs and spleen. Fifty pregnant female albino rats were divided into five groups of ten rats each: control, CHTiO2 NPs-treated groups orally received 100 and 300 mg/kg CHTiO2 NPs, and GTiO2 NPs-treated groups received 100 and 300 mg/kg GTiO2 NPs, respectively, daily for 14 days. The serum level of proinflammatory cytokines IL-6, oxidative stress markers (MDA and NO), and antioxidant biomarkers (SOD and GSH-PX) were assayed. Spleen and lungs were collected from pregnant rats and fetuses for histopathological examinations. The results showed a significant increase in IL-6 levels in treated groups. In the CHTiO2 NPs-treated groups, there was a significant increase in MDA activity and a significant decrease in GSH-Px and SOD activities, revealing its oxidative effect, while GSH-Px and SOD activities significantly increased in the 300 GTiO2 NPs-treated group, confirming the antioxidant effect of green-synthesized TiO2 NPs. Histopathological findings of the spleen and lungs of the CHTiO2 NPs-treated group revealed severe congestion and thickening of the blood vessels, while those of the GTiO2 NPs-treated group revealed mild tissue alterations. It could be deduced that green synthesized titanium dioxide nanoparticles have immunomodulatory and antioxidant effects on pregnant female albino rats and their fetuses, with an ameliorated impact on the spleen and lung compared to chemical titanium dioxide nanoparticles.

A review on the immunomodulatory properties of functional nutraceuticals as dietary interventions for children to combat COVID-19 related infections

COVID-19 is a significant threat to humanity in the present day due to the rapid increase in the number of infections worldwide. While most children may be spared of the direct mortality effects of the disease, those with weak immune systems are prone to adverse effects. Child mortality increases due to the stress caused to the health care system that disrupts essential health care needs such as immunisation and antenatal care. The use of functional foods (FF) aids in disease-prevention as they are known to have protective effects against COVID-19 by boosting children’s cellular and humoral immunity. Plant components such as glycyrrhizin, epigallocatechin gallate, allicin, and fucoidan exhibit antiviral properties against various viruses, including SARS-CoV 2. Microbial foods that are made of probiotics, can enhance immunity against various respiratory viruses. Food enriched with additives such as lactoferrin, piperine, and zinc can boost immunity against COVID-19. With proper definitive drug therapy not available for treating COVID-19 and most of the disease management tools rely on symptoms and non-specific supportive care, developing a functional paediatric formulation will prevent further deterioration in infant health. It is wise to investigate the toxicological aspects of Functional Foods components especially when formulating for children. The safe limits of ingredients should be strictly followed during FFs formulation. Stronger regulations with advanced analytical techniques can help to formulate functional foods into the mainstream in child nutraceuticals. The purpose of this review is to compile collective information on the functional nutraceuticals specifically for infants and children up to the age of 10 years that could confer immunity against COVID-19 and other related viruses.

Trends of Medicinal Plant Use over the Last 2000 Years in Central Europe

Medicinal plant knowledge in Central Europe can be traced back from the present to antiquity, through written sources. Approximately 100 medicinal plant taxa have a history of continuous use. In this paper, we focus on use patterns over time and the link between historical and traditional uses with the current scientific evidence. We discuss our findings against the backdrop of changing eras and medicinal concepts. Based on use-records from totally 16 historical, popular and scientific herbals, we analyze how use categories of 102 medicinal plant taxa developed over time. Overall, 56 of the 102 taxa maintained continuous use throughout all time periods. For approximately 30% of the continuous uses, scientific evidence supporting their use exists, compared to 11% for recently added uses and 6% for discontinuous uses. Dermatology and gastroenterology are use categories that are relevant across all time periods. They are associated with a high diversity of medicinal taxa and continuously used medicinal species with scientific evidence. Antidotes, apotropaic (protective) magic, and humoral detoxification were important use categories in the past. New applications reflecting biomedical progress and epidemiological challenges are cardiovascular and tonic uses. Changes in medicinal concepts are mirrored in plant use and specifically in changes in the importance of use categories. Our finding supports the concept of social validation of plant uses, i.e., the assumption that longstanding use practice and tradition may suggest efficacy and safety.

Evaluation of Garlic Juice Processing Waste Supplementation in Juvenile Black Rockfish (Sebastes schlegelii) Diets on Growth Performance, Antioxidant and Digestive Enzyme Activity, Growth- and Antioxidant-Related Gene Expression, and Disease Resistance against Streptococcus iniae

An 8-week feeding trial was conducted to evaluate the effects of various dietary levels of garlic juice processing waste (GJPW) on the growth, feed utilization, digestive and antioxidant enzyme activity, growth- and antioxidant-related gene expression, and resistance to Streptococcus iniae infection of juvenile black rockfish (Sebastes schlegelii). A total of 450 juvenile rockfish were randomly distributed into 30 L rectangular tanks (30 fish per tank). Five experimental diets were prepared in triplicate. The fish were fed experimental diets supplemented with GJPW at concentrations of 0 (GJPW0, control), 2.5 (GJPW2.5), 5 (GJPW5), 7.5 (GJPW7.5), and 10 g kg^-1 (GJPW10) diet. All of the GJPW-supplemented treatments (2.5, 5, 7.5, and 10 g kg^-1) significantly enhanced weight gain (WG), specific growth rate (SGR), feed efficiency (FE), protein efficiency ratio (PER), and digestive enzyme activity (amylase, trypsin, and lipase). A decreasing trend was seen in plasma aspartate aminotransferase (ALT), alanine aminotransferase (AST), and glucose (GLU) content with increasing dietary levels of GJPW. In contrast, plasma lysozyme and antioxidant enzyme activities were significantly increased with increasing dietary GJPW levels. Furthermore, GJPW administration significantly upregulated the expression of insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1), superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), and glutathione S-transferase (GST) in the liver of rockfish. A challenge test with S. iniae showed significantly higher resistance in the GJPW-supplemented treatments than in the control. In short, dietary supplementation GJPW enhanced growth performance and antioxidant response in juvenile black rockfish, with suitable effects in fish fed with 2.5 g kg^-1 GJPW for 8 weeks.

Traditional uses, phytochemistry, pharmacology and toxicology of garlic (Allium sativum), a storehouse of diverse phytochemicals: A review of research from the last decade focusing on health and nutritional implications

Allium sativum L. (Garlic) is a fragrant herb and tuber-derived spice that is one of the most sought-after botanicals, used as a culinary and ethnomedicine for a variety of diseases around the world. An array of pharmacological attributes such as antioxidant, hypoglycemic, anti-inflammatory, antihyperlipidemic, anticancer, antimicrobial, and hepatoprotective activities of this species have been established by previous studies. A. sativum houses many sulfur-containing phytochemical compounds such as allicin, diallyl disulfide (DADS), vinyldithiins, ajoenes (E-ajoene, Z-ajoene), diallyl trisulfide (DATS), micronutrient selenium (Se) etc. Organosulfur compounds are correlated with modulations in its antioxidant properties. The garlic compounds have also been recorded as promising immune-boosters or act as potent immunostimulants. A. sativum helps to treat cardiovascular ailments, neoplastic growth, rheumatism, diabetes, intestinal worms, flatulence, colic, dysentery, liver diseases, facial paralysis, tuberculosis, bronchitis, high blood pressure, and several other diseases. The present review aims to comprehensively enumerate the ethnobotanical and pharmacological aspects of A. sativum with notes on its phytochemistry, ethnopharmacology, toxicological aspects, and clinical studies from the retrieved literature from the last decade with notes on recent breakthroughs and bottlenecks. Future directions related to garlic research is also discussed.

Cellular Mechanisms Underlying the Cardioprotective Role of Allicin on Cardiovascular Diseases

Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are a group of diseases in which the common denominator is the affection of blood vessels, heart tissue, and heart rhythm. The genesis of CVD is complex and multifactorial; therefore, approaches are often based on multidisciplinary management and more than one drug is used to achieve the optimal control of risk factors (dyslipidemia, hypertension, hypertrophy, oxidative stress, endothelial dysfunction, inflammation). In this context, allicin, a sulfur compound naturally derived from garlic, has shown beneficial effects on several cardiovascular risk factors through the modulation of cellular mechanisms and signaling pathways. Effective pharmacological treatments for CVD or its risk factors have not been developed or are unknown in clinical practice. Thus, this work aimed to review the cellular mechanisms through which allicin exerts its therapeutic effects and to show why it could be a therapeutic option for the prevention or treatment of CVD and its risk factors.

Garlic (Allium sativum Linnaeus) improved inflammation and reduced cryptosporidiosis burden in immunocompromised mice

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

For thousands of years, garlic (Allium sativum Linnaeus) has been consumed in food and health by numerous civilizations. Cryptosporidium (C.) parvum is an apicomplexan parasite that causes a gastrointestinal disease, with the most common symptoms being watery diarrhea. Although several substances have been tried for its anti-cryptosporidial action, there is no effective treatment for Cryptosporidium disease, especially in immunocompromised individuals. The present study aimed firstly to characterize the bio-active compounds in Allium sativum L. and secondly to evaluate its efficacy as a therapy for cryptosporidiosis especially in immunocompromised mice.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This was accomplished by evaluating the parasitological and histopathological parameters in the experimentally infected immunocompetent and immunocompromised mice. Also, the cytokine profile during the experimental time was recorded through the measuring of T helper (h)1, Th2 and Th17 cells cytokines. Immunosuppressed mice were given 0.25 μg/g per day of dexamethasone orally, before infection with Cryptosporidium parvum oocysts, for fourteen consecutive days. Starting 10 days post infection (PI), nitazoxanide (100 mg/kg per day) or Allium sativum (50 mg/kg per day) was given orally for fourteen consecutive days.

RESULTS

Our results showed that oocyst shedding, on the 32nd day PI, in immunocompromised infected group treated with Allium sativum (354.11, 99.35% PR) showed a significant decrease when compared to its corresponding group treated with nitazoxanide (4369.14, 92.05% PR). On the 32nd day PI, all cytokines levels have been decreased to levels that were similar to those of their uninfected corresponding control groups; also, the histopathological changes and the loss in animals' body weight had been improved. Treatment with nitazoxanide did not result in infection clearance or a reduction in the increased cytokines' levels.

CONCLUSION

Allium sativum L. displayed high efficacy as a potential therapeutic agent against Cryptosporidium, which supports its traditional usage in parasite diseases.

Variations in Total Phenolic, Total Flavonoid Contents, and Free Radicals' Scavenging Potential of Onion Varieties Planted under Diverse Environmental Conditions

Genetic diversity and Agro-climatic conditions contribute significantly to the agronomic and morphological features of the food plant species, and their nutraceutical potential. The present study was intended to evaluate the impact of growing conditions on total phenolic and total flavonoid contents, and in vitro antioxidant potential in the bulbs and leaves of onion varieties planted under diverse environmental conditions. Standard analytical methods were used to quantify total phenolic content (TPC), total flavonoid content (TFC), and free radicals’ scavenging/antioxidant capacity. The impact of climatic and soil conditions was assessed using statistical tools. In general, onion varieties cultivated at three different locations viz. Kalar Kahar, Lahore and Swabi exhibited significant variations in TPC and TFC, and antioxidant activities. The bulbs and leaves of Mustang (V1) variety planted at Lahore and Swabi had significantly (p < 0.05), high levels of TPC (659.5 ± 6.59, and 631.1 ± 8.58 mg GAE/100 g, respectively). However, leaves of Red Orb (V2) and bulbs of Mustang (V1), and Golden Orb (V6), harvested from Kalar Kahar depicted the highest concentration of TFC (432.5 ± 10.3, 303.0 ± 6.67, and 303.0 ± 2.52 mg QE/100 g DW, respectively). Likewise, bulbs of V1 planted at Kalar Kahar, Lahore and Swabi exhibited maximum inhibition of DPPH, ABTS, and H2O2 radicals (79.01 ± 1.49, 65.38 ± 0.99, and 59.76 ± 0.90%, respectively). Golden Orb (V6) harvested from Lahore had the highest scavenging of OH radical (67.40 ± 0.09%). Likewise, bulbs of V1 variety planted at KalarKahar and Swabi had significant capacity to scavenge ferric ions (415.1 ± 10.6 mg GAE/100 g DW), and molybdate ions (213.7 ± 0.00 mg AAE/100 g DW). Conversely, leaves of Amazon (V8), planted at Lahore and Swabi depicted significant levels of DPPH, ABTS, H2O2 radical scavenging (90.69 ± 0.26, 63.55 ± 1.06, 51.86 ± 0.43%, respectively), and reduction of ferric ions (184.2 ± 6.75 mg GAE/100 g DW). V6 leaves harvested from Lahore and that of Super Sarhad (V3) from Swabi showed the highest inhibition of OH radical (61.21 ± 0.79%), and molybdate ions (623.6 ± 0.12 mg AAE/100 g DW), respectively. Pearson correlation and principal component analysis revealed strong relationships of climatic conditions, soil properties and elevation with TPC, TFC and free radicals’ scavenging potential in the bulbs and leaves of onion varieties. The variations in the total phenolic and flavonoid contents, and antioxidant potential of different varieties, and their associations with climatic and soil factors revealed the complexity of the growing conditions and genetic makeup that imposed significant impacts on the synthesis of secondary metabolites and nutraceutical potential of food and medicinal plant species.

Effect of lyophilized chive (Allium wakegi Araki) supplementation to the frying batter mixture on quality attributes of fried chicken breast and tenderloin

Batter mixtures for frying chicken breasts and tenderloins were supplemented with different amounts (0, 3, 5, and 7%) of lyophilized chives (Allium wakegi Araki). The viscosity of the batter mixture, crispness of the fried batter, fat and ash contents, caloric value, coating pickup, and frying yield were directly proportional, whereas the lightness, redness, yellowness, and pH were inversely proportional, to the amount of lyophilized chives in the batter. Principal component analysis revealed that the aromatic profiles varied between the 0%, 3%, and 5% lyophilized chive-supplemented groups in both the breast and tenderloin samples. However, the aromatic profiles of the 7% and 5% lyophilized chive-supplemented samples were similar. The taste profile of the 7% lyophilized chive-supplemented sample was different from those of the 0%, 3%, or 5% lyophilized chive-supplemented samples. The sensory characteristics of the 5% lyophilized chive-supplemented breast samples and 3% or 5% lyophilized chive-supplemented tenderloin samples received the best scores by sensory panelists.

Developing multifunctional edible coatings based on alginate for active food packaging

The applications of edible coatings stemmed exclusively from alginate in food packaging are restricted due to their inherent deficient antimicrobial, barrier, and UV-barrier properties. In this work, we aimed to design smart alginate-based coatings for active food packaging through the addition of both aloe vera (AV) and garlic oil (GO). The interactions between the film components were verified by FTIR and XRD. Thermal and mechanical properties were improved by the presence of AV and GO. The presence of AV and GO did not significantly influence the transparency of alginate films. The films exhibited a significant UV-shielding to all UV regions. Water vapor permeability was significantly (p < 0.05) reduced either through the incorporation of AV or GO. The antimicrobial properties of the prepared films were considerably improved by the presence of AV and GO. The shelf-life of tomatoes (Solanum lycopersicum L.) was extended when coated with the alginate film incorporated with AV and GO. Owing to the outstanding UV-shielding, mechanical, thermal, and antimicrobial properties, the alginate/AV/GO active coatings could potentially be implemented in the food packaging industry.

The content of bioactive compounds and antioxidant activity of garlic (Allium sativum L.)

Garlic (Allium sativum L.) is one of the most commonly grown vegetables and thanks to its sensory properties, it has an important place in numerous world cuisines. Garlic is also known for its health-promoting properties, which are attributed to its chemical composition. The health benefits of garlic depending on the content of biologically active compounds, which vary between cultivars and geographical areas. Seven cultivars of garlic, namely Sukoradsky, Zahorsky, Germidour, Mojmir, Karel IV., Arkus, Makoi, were analyzed in this study. This study aimed to determine the total polyphenol content, total flavonoid content, and antioxidant activity of garlic. Studied characteristics were analyzed by the UV-VIS spectrometry method. Total polyphenol content ranged from 430.26 to 640.04 mg GAE.kg-1 FW. Total flavonoid content ranged from 10.29 to 60.49 mg CE.kg-1 FW. Antioxidant activity measured by ABTS assay ranged from 1.098 to 1.955 mmol TE.kg-1 FW. Antioxidant activity measured by FRAP assay ranged from 0.63 to 1.467 mmol.kg-1 FW. Highest TPC, TFC, and AA were determined in the cultivar Mojmir. The lowest TPC and TFC were determined in the cultivar Zahorsky. The lowest AA was determined in the cultivar Sukoradsky. High positive correlations were determined between individual parameters.

Pertinence of nutriments for a stalwart body

Nutrition plays a significant role in the prevention and treatment of common diseases. Some superb dietary choices such as functional foods and nutriments can surely help fight against certain diseases and provide various advantages to an individual's health. Plants have been regarded as a primary source of highly effective conventional drugs leading to the development of potential novel agents, which may boost the treatment. Growing demand for functional foods acts as an aid for the producers to expand in agriculture and pave the way for innovation and research by the nutraceutical industry. The given review highlights how various functional foods such as tomatoes, chocolates, garlic and flaxseed are currently being defined, their sources, benefit in treating various ailments and the challenges with their use.

Effect of aromatase inhibitors on sex differentiation and embryonic development in chicks

Background

Sexual differentiation can occur after exposure to aromatase into the left gonad at 6.5 days of incubation. Aromatase inhibitors work by inhibiting the action of the aromatase, which converts androgens into estrogens by a process called aromatization.

Objectives

The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of in ovo exposure to the aromatase inhibitor from tomato and garlic extract on sexual differentiation and embryonic development in chicken embryos.

Methods

Three hundred eggs divided into five groups: Control 1 (CO; no injection); control 2 distilled water, DW; 0.1 ml/egg); garlic extract (GAR; 0.1 mg/egg); tomato extract (TOM; 0.1 mg/egg); and garlic and tomato extract mixed (ATM, 0.1 ml/egg). The solution was prepared and injected into the albumin from the thin end of the eggs on day five by using a 1 ml syringe with a 23‐gauge needle. The embryonic test (embryo/egg weight) conducted at 7, 14 and 17 days of incubation. After hatching, feather sexing conducted to determine the initial male. Chicks sex was later confirmed on day 42 by an optical microscope lens.

Results

The results revealed that there was a significant increase (p < 0.01) in embryonic growth traits in all experimental treatments as compared to control treatments. There was a significant increase (p < 0.01) in the percentage of hatchability for all experimental treatments compared to control treatments and a significant increase (p < 0.01) in chick quality including one‐day‐old chick length and body weight. All experimental treatments showed a significant increase (p < 0.01) in the male‐to‐female ratio compared to control treatments.

Conclusions

The effect of in ovo exposure to aromatase inhibitors stimulated female‐to‐male sex reversal and improved embryonic development.

The nutritional applications of garlic (Allium sativum) as natural feed additives in animals

Garlic (Allium sativum) is an essential vegetable that has been widely utilized as seasoning, flavoring, culinary and in herbal remedies. Garlic contains several characteristic organosulfur compounds, such as diallyl sulfide, allicin (diallyl thiosulphate), γ-glutamylcysteine, and S-allyl cysteine (alliin) and ajoene, which garlic has beneficial effects on inflammation, oxidative stress markers, hypertension, hyperlipidaemia and endothelial function in vitro or in animal model. These bioactive molecules are also playing pivotal role in livestock and fisheries production apart from its application in humans. Supplementation of animal feed with garlic and its related products is consistent with the modern agricultural concept of organic animal husbandry. This review compiles the information describing the effects of feeding garlic and its extracts on selected performance parameters in animals (chicken, rabbits, ruminants, pigs and fish). This review may provide reference for scientists and entrepreneurs to investigate the applications of feeds added with garlic and allicin by-products for the improvement of animal husbandry and aquatic production.

Anti-Inflammatory Effect of Allicin Associated with Fibrosis in Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension

Pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) is characterized by pulmonary vascular remodeling. Recent evidence supports that inflammation plays a key role in triggering and maintaining pulmonary vascular remodeling. Recent studies have shown that garlic extract has protective effects in PAH, but the precise role of allicin, a compound derived from garlic, is unknown. Thus, we used allicin to evaluate its effects on inflammation and fibrosis in PAH. Male Wistar rats were divided into three groups: control (CON), monocrotaline (60 mg/kg) (MCT), and MCT plus allicin (16 mg/kg/oral gavage) (MCT + A). Right ventricle (RV) hypertrophy and pulmonary arterial medial wall thickness were determined. IL-1β, IL-6, TNF-α, NFκB p65, Iκβ, TGF-β, and α-SMA were determined by Western blot analysis. In addition, TNF-α and TGF-β were determined by immunohistochemistry, and miR-21-5p and mRNA expressions of Cd68, Bmpr2, and Smad5 were determined by RT-qPCR. Results: Allicin prevented increases in vessel wall thickness due to TNF-α, IL-6, IL-1β, and Cd68 in the lung. In addition, TGF-β, α-SMA, and fibrosis were lower in the MCT + A group compared with the MCT group. In the RV, allicin prevented increases in TNF-α, IL-6, and TGF-β. These observations suggest that, through the modulation of proinflammatory and profibrotic markers in the lung and heart, allicin delays the progression of PAH.

The effects of garlic supplementation on weight loss: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

Abstract. Obesity is related to increase in the incidence of morbidity and mortality. Studies have suggested anti-obesity properties of garlic; however, results are inconsistent. This systematic review and meta-analysis is done to summarize the data obtained from available randomized clinical trials on the effect of garlic supplementation on body weight, Body Mass Index (BMI), and Waist Circumference (WC). The online databases of Scopus, PubMed, Google Scholar and Cochrane library were searched until March 2018 for related publications using relevant keywords. Effect sizes of eligible studies were pooled using random-effects models. Cochran’s Q-test and I2 index were used for assessing heterogeneity. We found 1241 records in our initial search, of which 13 randomized clinical trials (RCTs) with 15 treatment arms were included. Pooled analysis showed that garlic administration might significantly decrease WC (Weighed Mean Difference (WMD): −1.10 cm, 95% CI: −2.13, −0.07, P = 0.03, I2 = 0%). However, garlic intervention had no significant effect on body weight (WMD): −0.17 kg, 95% CI: −0.75 to 0.39, P = 0.54, I2 = 0%) and BMI (WMD: −0.17 kg/m2, 95% CI: −0.52, 0.16, P = 0.30, I2 = 44.5%) as compared to controls. From Subgroup analysis, it was ascertained that the effect of garlic supplementation on BMI was significant in trials with duration < 12 weeks (WMD: −0.58 kg/m2, 95% CI: −1.08, −0.08, I2 = 19.8%, P = 0.02) compared to those with higher duration (>12 weeks). The current meta-analysis results suggest that garlic supplementation seems to reduce waist circumference unlike body weight and BMI.

Improving the bioavailability and bioactivity of garlic bioactive compounds via nanotechnology

This review highlights main bioactive compounds and important biological functions especially anticancer effects of the garlic. In addition, we review current literature on the stability and bioavailability of garlic components. Finally, this review aims to provide a potential strategy for using nanotechnology to increase the stability and solubility of garlic components, providing guidelines for the qualities of garlic products to improve their absorption and prevent their early degradation, and extend their circulation time in the body. The application of nanotechnology to improve the bioavailability and targeting of garlic compounds are expected to provide a theoretical basis for the functional components of garlic to treat human health. We review the improvement of bioavailability and bioactivity of garlic bioactive compounds via nanotechnology, which could promisingly overcome the limitations of conventional garlic products, and would be used to prevent and treat cancer and other diseases in the near future.

Regulation of Apolipoprotein B by Natural Products and Nutraceuticals: A Comprehensive Review

Cardiovascular Disease (CVD) is the most important and the number one cause of mortality in both developing and industrialized nations. The co-morbidities associated with CVD are observed from infancy to old age. Apolipoprotein B100 (Apo B) is the primary apolipoprotein and structural protein of all major atherogenic particles derived from the liver including Very-Low- Density Lipoproteins (VLDL), Intermediate-density Lipoprotein (IDL), and Low-density Lipoprotein (LDL) particles. It has been suggested that measurement of the Apo B concentration is a superior and more reliable index for the prediction of CVD risk than is the measurement of LDL-C. Nutraceuticals and medicinal plants have attracted significant attention as it pertains to the treatment of non-communicable diseases, particularly CVD, diabetes mellitus, hypertension, and Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD). The effect of nutraceuticals and herbal products on CVD, as well as some of its risk factors such as dyslipidemia, have been investigated previously. However, to the best of our knowledge, the effect of these natural products, including herbal supplements and functional foods (e.g. fruits and vegetables as either dry materials, or their extracts) on Apo B has not yet been investigated. Therefore, the primary objective of this paper was to review the effect of bioactive natural compounds on plasma Apo B concentrations. It is concluded that, in general, medicinal plants and nutraceuticals can be used as complementary medicine to reduce plasma Apo B levels in a safe, accessible, and inexpensive manner in an attempt to prevent and treat CVD.

Ameliorative effects of garlic oil on FNDC5 and irisin sensitivity in liver of streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats

OBJECTIVES

This study was aimed to investigate the effects of garlic oil (GO), an important natural constituent used in alleviating diabetes and its complications, on the expression levels of irisin and related genes.

METHODS

Thirty-two rats were divided into four groups: Control, Diabetes-Control, Diabetes+GO 100 mg/kg/day and Control+GO 100 mg/kg/day for 45 days. The measurements included: changes in liver Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-gamma-coactivator (PGC)-1α, Fibronectin Type-III-Domain-Containing5 (FNDC5), irisin expression, mRNA expression of p38 and TNF-α (Tumour necrosis factor-α), total-antioxidant-status (L-TAS; S-TAS), total-oxidant-status (L-TOS; S-TOS) in liver and serum, respectively.

KEY FINDINGS

There was a significant reduction in serum levels of irisin and S-TAS and expression of PGC-1α and FNDC5 in liver in Diabetes-control compared to Control-group, while a significant increase in serum levels of fasting blood glucose (FBG) and TOS, also p38 and TNF-α expressions in liver. In Diabetes+GO group, there was a significant increase in serum irisin and S-TAS, also expression of PGC-1α and FNDC5 in liver, while serum FBG, S-TOS levels, and mRNA expression of p38 and TNF-α in liver were decreased compared to Diabetes-control group (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

GO alleviated the diabetic liver injury by decreasing Oxidative-Stress parameters and regulation PGC-lα, FNDC5, irisin and P38, keeping the balance of TAS/TOS and TNF-α.

Medicinal Plants and Phytochemicals Regulating Insulin Resistance and Glucose Homeostasis in Type 2 Diabetic Patients: A Clinical Review

Diabetes is a major health problem affecting more than four hundred million adults worldwide. The transition from normal glucose tolerance to type 2 diabetes (T2D) is preceded by increased Insulin resistance (IR), an independent predictor of the development of T2D in high risk (e.g. obese populations, pre-diabetes) individuals. Insulin deficiency resulting from increased IR results in progressive glucose homeostasis dysfunction. Data has shown that IR is affected by many different factors such as genetics, age, exercise, dietary nutrients, obesity, and body fat distribution. One of the most important factors is diet, which plays an essential role in addressing T2D and metabolic syndrome. Nutraceuticals and medicinal plants have been shown to have efficacy in preventing chronic diseases like cancer, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), cardiovascular disease, diabetes mellitus and metabolic syndrome, likely through the anti-inflammatory properties found in nutraceuticals. However, the effect of these compounds, including traditional plant medicines, herbal formulations or their extracts on IR have not been systematically investigated. The objective of this review was to assess the reported effects of medicinal plants and bioactive natural compounds on IR. The findings confirm that most of the herbal bioactive compounds including resveratrol, garlic, curcumin, cinnamon, ginger, nuts, berberine, anthocyanin, soybean, flaxseed, vegetable oils, and soluble fibers have benefit in their efficacy for decreasing IR, fasting blood sugar (FBS), fasting insulin and HbA1c.

Antioxidant, Antimicrobial and Antiviral Properties of Herbal Materials

Recently, increasing public concern about hygiene has been driving many studies to investigate antimicrobial and antiviral agents. However, the use of any antimicrobial agents must be limited due to their possible toxic or harmful effects. In recent years, due to previous antibiotics' lesser side effects, the use of herbal materials instead of synthetic or chemical drugs is increasing. Herbal materials are found in medicines. Herbs can be used in the form of plant extracts or as their active components. Furthermore, most of the world's populations used herbal materials due to their strong antimicrobial properties and primary healthcare benefits. For example, herbs are an excellent material to replace nanosilver as an antibiotic and antiviral agent. The use of nanosilver involves an ROS-mediated mechanism that might lead to oxidative stress-related cancer, cytotoxicity, and heart diseases. Oxidative stress further leads to increased ROS production and also delays the cellular processes involved in wound healing. Therefore, existing antibiotic drugs can be replaced with biomaterials such as herbal medicine with high antimicrobial, antiviral, and antioxidant activity. This review paper highlights the antibacterial, antiviral, and radical scavenger (antioxidant) properties of herbal materials. Antimicrobial activity, radical scavenger ability, the potential for antimicrobial, antiviral, and anticancer agents, and efficacy in eliminating bacteria and viruses and scavenging free radicals in herbal materials are discussed in this review. The presented herbal antimicrobial agents in this review include clove, portulaca, tribulus, eryngium, cinnamon, turmeric, ginger, thyme, pennyroyal, mint, fennel, chamomile, burdock, eucalyptus, primrose, lemon balm, mallow, and garlic, which are all summarized.

Protective effects of thymoquinone and diallyl sulphide against malathion-induced toxicity in rats

Malathion is a potent organophosphate insecticide that inhibits acetylcholinesterase (AChE) enzyme. Our experimental objective was to investigate the beneficial effects of diallyl sulphide (DAS) and thymoquinone (TQ) against malathion-induced oxidative stress in rat cerebral, hepatic, and renal tissues. For 30 days, rats received corn oil alone (negative control) or malathion by intragastric gavage (200 mg/kg daily), either alone (positive control) or combined with oral DAS (200 mg/kg daily) or TQ (10 mg/kg daily) (treatment groups). Later, blood samples were collected via direct cardiac puncture and tissue samples were obtained for biochemical analysis. Malathion administration was associated with significant increases (p < 0.05) in the serum levels of aspartate aminotransferase, alanine aminotransferase, alkaline phosphatase, lactate dehydrogenase, γ-glutamyl transferase, cholesterol, urea, creatinine, and 8-OHdG (DNA damage biomarker), as well as significant (p < 0.05) decreases in the serum levels of total proteins, albumin, triglycerides, and AChE. Moreover, it significantly increased the tissue concentrations of malondialdehyde and nitric oxide and reduced tissue glutathione concentration and activities of antioxidant enzymes (glutathione peroxidase, superoxide dismutase, and catalase). Treatment of malathion-intoxicated rats with DAS or TQ significantly minimized these biochemical and oxidative effects with more frequent reversal to normal ranges of serum biomarkers, tissue oxidative markers, and antioxidant enzymes in the TQ group. In conclusion, treatment with DAS or TQ ameliorated the biochemical and oxidative effects of malathion, probably through reducing the generation of reactive oxygen and nitrogen radicals, as well as enhancing the antioxidant defense mechanisms.

Variation in Morphological and Quality Parameters in Garlic (Allium sativum L.) Bulb Influenced by Different Photoperiod, Temperature, Sowing and Harvesting Time

Photoperiod (light) and temperature as abiotic factors having significant impact on the garlic bulb morphology and quality. In various bulb plants including garlic, bulbing is affected by photoperiod, temperature, sowing date and the plant age. In this backdrop experiments were performed to understand the effect of different photoperiods (10 h/14 h, 12 h/12 h and 14 h/10 h (light/dark)), temperatures (25 °C/18 °C and 30 °C/20 °C (light/dark)), sowing dates (D₀₈₀₁: 1^st August, D₀₉₀₁: 1^st September and D₁₀₀₁: 1^st October) and plant ages (A₈₀, A₆₀ and A₄₀: 80, 60 and 40 days after planting) on garlic cultivars viz; G103, G024 and G2011-5. Parameters including morphological (plant height, fresh weight and pseudostem diameter), bulb attributes (diameter, weight, height and bulbing index), growth period and bulb quality related traits (total soluble solid (TSS), contents of soluble protein, soluble sugar, total sugar, glucose, sucrose, fructose, starch, total phenol and total flavonoid) were assayed. Longer photoperiod (14 h), higher temperature (30 °C), early sowing (D₀₈₀₁) and maximum plant age (A₈₀) had maximum morphological and bulb quality related traits for cv. G103. These results showed that early sowing, maximum plant age, longer photoperiod and higher temperature are important for garlic bulb formation and quality. Moreover, the regulation of garlic bulb morphology and quality is achievable over the switch of sowing date, plant age, light and growth temperature.

Protective Role of Nutritional Plants Containing Flavonoids in Hair Follicle Disruption: A Review

Hair loss is a disorder in which the hair falls out from skin areas such as the scalp and the body. Several studies suggest the use of herbal medicine to treat related disorders, including alopecia. Dermal microcirculation is essential for hair maintenance, and an insufficient blood supply can lead to hair follicles (HF) diseases. This work aims to provide an insight into the ethnohistorical records of some nutritional compounds containing flavonoids for their potential beneficial features in repairing or recovering from hair follicle disruption. We started from a query for “alopecia” OR “hair loss” AND “Panaxginseng C.A. Mey.“ (or other six botanicals) terms included in Pubmed and Web of Sciences articles. The activities of seven common botanicals introduced with diet (Panaxginseng C.A. Mey., Malus pumila Mill cultivar Annurca, Coffea arabica, Allium sativum L., Camellia sinensis (L.) Kuntze, Rosmarinum officinalis L., Capsicum annum L.) are discussed, which are believed to reduce the rate of hair loss or stimulate new hair growth. In this review, we pay our attention on the molecular mechanisms underlying the bioactivity of the aforementioned nutritional compounds in vivo, ex vivo and in vitro studies. There is a need for systematic evaluation of the most commonly used plants to confirm their anti-hair loss power, identify possible mechanisms of action, and recommend their best adoption.

Allium Jesdianum Extract Improve Acetaminophen-Induced Hepatic Failure through Inhibition of Oxidative/Nitrosative Stress

Objectives

Allium jesdianum (Aj) is a medicinal plant that has highlighted pharmacological features. In this study, the effects of Aj extract were examined on acetaminophen (APAP)-induced hepatic failure in rats.

Methods

Methanolic fraction of hydro-alcoholic extract of Aj was obtained by silica gel column chromatography method. Animals were randomly divided into four groups each containing six rats and treated by gavage as follows: the first and second groups received normal saline, the third and fourth groups were received with 50 and 100 mg/kg of Aj extract, respectively. After two consecutive weeks, the groups 2–4 were given a single dose of APAP (2 g/kg). After 48 hours, blood and liver samples were collected for biochemical and histological examinations.

Results

The findings of the study demonstrated that APAP caused a significant increase in ALT (P < 0.001), AST (P < 0.001), LDH (P < 0.001), ALP (P < 0.001) serum levels, hepatic lipid peroxidation (LPO; P < 0.001) and nitric oxide (NO; P < 0.001). In this regard, APAP led to the depletion of the total antioxidant capacity (TAC; P < 0.001), glutathione and total thiol groups (TTGs; P < 0.001), and structural change in the liver. In the Aj extract groups, a considerable improvement was found in the hepatic function alongside the histopathologic changes.

Conclusion

This investigation indicated that the influential effects of Aj extract in APAP-induced hepatic failure might depend on its effect on improving oxidant/antioxidant balance in hepatic tissue.

Plants mentioned in the Islamic Scriptures (Holy Qur'ân and Ahadith): Traditional uses and medicinal importance in contemporary times

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Over the past thousand years, Islamic physicians have collected cultural, philosophical, sociological and historical backgrounds for understanding diseases and medications. The Prophet Mohammed (Peace Be Upon Him (PBUH) said: "There is no disease that Allah has created, except that Allah also has created its cure." Therefore, Islamic scholars are encouraged to explore and use both traditional and modern forms of medicine.

AIM OF THE STUDY

(1) To identify some of the medicinal plants mentioned in the Holy Qur'ân and Ahadith textbooks of the period 700-1500 AD; (2) to compare them with presently used traditional medicines; (3) to evaluate their value based on modern research; and (4) to investigate the contributions of Islamic scholars to the development of the scientific branches, particularly medicine.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A literature search was performed relating to 12 medicinal plants mentioned in the Holy Qur'ân and Ahadith using textbooks, Al-Azhar scholars, published articles, the plant list website (http://www.theplantlist.org/), the medicinal plant names services website (http://mpns.kew.org/mpns-portal/) and web databases (PubMed, Science Direct, and Google Scholar).

RESULTS AND DISCUSSION

The Islamic Golden Age was a step towards modern medicine, with unique insights and multi-disciplinary aspects. Traditional Islamic Medicine has had a significant impact on the development of various medical, scientific and educational activities. Innumerable Muslim and non-Muslim physicians have built on the strong foundation of Traditional Islamic Medicine by translating the described natural remedies and effects. The influences of different ancient cultures on the traditional uses of natural products were also documented in Islamic Scriptures in the last part of the second millennium. The divine teachings of Islam combine natural and practical healing and incorporate inherited science and technology.

CONCLUSION

In this review, we discuss Traditional Islamic Medicine with reference to both medical recommendations mentioned in the Holy Qur'ân and Prophetic Traditional Medicine (al-Tibb al-Nabawi). Although the molecular mechanisms and functions of some of the listed medicinal plants and their derivatives have been intensively studied, some traditional remedies have yet to be translated into clinical applications.

Hepatoprotective effects of red beetroot-based beverages against CCl4 -induced hepatic stress in Sprague Dawley rats

Red beetroot (Beta vulgaris L.) is considered important to improve hepatic health but its use is primarily limited to fresh salads in Pakistan. This study was aimed at exploring prophylactic role of red beetroot-based beverages against carbon tetrachloride (CCl₄ )-induced hepatic stress. Purposely, red beetroot-based beverages (8 ml/kg b.w. per day) were administered to normal and hepatotoxicity-induced rats for 8 weeks. The biochemical analyses revealed significantly higher levels of superoxide dismutase (25%-28%), catalase (21%-24%), and hepatic enzymes (15%-19%) alongside reduced lipid peroxidation (27%-32%) in liver tissues of hepatotoxicity-induced rats treated with beetroot-based beverages compared to control. Similarly, hepatic injury was reduced by 19%-26% as indicated by concentrations of serum hepatic health biomarkers. Moreover, histological architecture of hepatocytes also portrayed promising effects of beetroot-based beverages to preserve hepatocellular portfolio. It was concluded that red beetroot-based beverages considerably assuage negative impacts of hepatic stress. PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS: Functional foods and nutraceuticals are considered vital in controlling the oxidative stress-mediated metabolic disorders as safer alternatives to pharmaceutical agents. The current research explored the protective effects of red beetroot-based beverages which can be utilized as an effective approach to prevent liver injuries. Also, the outcomes of this research endorsed the defensive role of these beverages against oxidative stress-induced hepatic stress, so dietary supplementation of such products can be synchronized in clinical practices to alleviate oxidative stress. However, there is a need to further explore the safety aspects of such products in their long-term usage before implementing this module in humans for disease prevention/cure.

The Alternate Consumption of Quercetin and Alliin in the Traditional Asian Diet Reshaped Microbiota and Altered Gene Expression of Colonic Epithelial Cells in Rats

The diet of traditional Asian is similar to the Mediterranean that was considered as a healthy dietary pattern. The report was scarce on whether different plant-derived components with similar anti-oxidative and anti-inflammatory function such as quercetin and alliin in traditional Asian diet consumed in an alternate style cooperatively affect health including the growth of host and the status of the gut microbiota and colonic epithelial immunity. In the present study, the effects of alternate consumption of quercetin and alliin on host health judging by the profile of gut microbiota and gene expression of colonic epithelial cells were investigated with the Illumina MiSeq sequencing (16S rRNA genes) and Illumina HiSeq (RNA-seq) technique, respectively. The results showed that the alternate consumption significantly increased the rat body weight and reshaped the gut microbiota composition. At the phylum level, it significantly increased the relative abundance of fecal Firmicutes and Cyanobacteria but decreased that of Bacteroidetes (P < 0.05) and increased the relative abundance of Candidatus Arthromitus, Lactococcus, Geobacillus, and Ruminococcus at the genus level that benefits the host's health. The alternate consumption of quercetin and alliin also altered 13 genes expression involved in the KEGG pathways of complement and coagulation cascades and hematopoietic cell lineage to improve the gut immunity. Therefore, the alternate consumption of quercetin and alliin in traditional Asian diet can contribute beneficial metabolic effects by optimizing gut microbiota and altering the immunologic function of colonic epithelial cells, resulting in its potential to improve the sub-health status.

Investigating the Antioxidant Potential of Garlic (Allium sativum) Extracts Through Different Extraction Modes

Background:

Garlic (Allium sativum) possesses health enhancing abilities due to the presence various phytoceutics moities. The current research was deigned to explore the phytochemicals and antioxidant capacity of Pakistani garlic.

Methods:

Garlic extracts were obtained using methanol, hexane and ethyl acetate at different time intervals (35, 50 and 65 min) followed by their polyphenols and flavonoid content determination. Afterwards, the antioxidant potential was also determined.

Results:

The outcomes revealed that the methanolic extracts obtained at 50 min extraction time showed maximum total phenolics as 60.38±0.23 mg GAE/100g and flavonoids as 58.45&amp;#177;1.24 mg/100g. Similarly, the highest DPPH activity (61.59±1.58%) and &amp;#946;-carotene and linoleic acid potential (64.96&amp;#177;1.72%) were also observed for methanolic extract.

Conclusion:

Inferences were made that Pakistani garlic contains myriad of phenolics and flavonoids but the extraction of these components depends upon the solvent/time combination. In this study, methanol proved to be the ideal solvent for the maximum extraction of phytochemicals from garlic.

The Immunomodulatory Properties of Propyl-Propane Thiosulfonate Contribute to its Intestinal Anti-Inflammatory Effect in Experimental Colitis

SCOPE

Propyl-propane thiosulfonate (PTSO) is a component isolated from garlic (Allium sativum) with antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory, and antimicrobial properties. In consequence, PTSO can be a potential candidate for the treatment of inflammatory bowel diseases.

METHODS AND RESULTS

The anti-inflammatory effects of PTSO are studied in two mice models of colitis: 2,4-dinitrobenzene sulfonic acid (DNBS) (PTSO doses: 0.01-10 mg kg^-1 ) and dextran sodium sulfate (DSS) (PTSO doses: 0.01-0.1 mg kg^-1 ). The immunomodulatory effects of PTSO (0.1-25 µm) are also shown in vitro in Caco-2 and THP-1 cells, reducing the production of pro-inflammatory mediators and downregulating mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs) signaling pathways. This compound displays beneficial effects in both models of mouse colitis by reducing the expression of different pro-inflammatory mediators and improving the intestinal epithelial barrier integrity. Moreover, PTSO ameliorates the altered gut microbiota composition observed in DSS colitic mice.

CONCLUSION

PTSO exerts intestinal anti-inflammatory activity in experimental colitis in mice. This anti-inflammatory activity can be associated with the immunomodulatory properties of PTSO through the regulation of the activity of cells involved in the inflammatory response. Furthermore, PTSO is able to restore the intestinal epithelial barrier function and to ameliorate the intestinal microbiota homeostasis, thus supporting its future development in human IBD.

In Vitro and In Vivo Immunomodulator Activities of Allium sativum L

Allium Sativum L. (garlic), which is a species of the onion family, Alliaceae, is one of the most used plants in traditional medicine worldwide. More than 200 chemicals with diverse properties have been found in garlic extracts. Several garlic compounds were suggested to be efficient in improving various pathologies including certain types of cancer. This paper is an overview of data about garlic biological activities in vitro and/or in vivo on immune cells, on the development of certain inflammatory diseases, and on different types of carcinomas and sarcomas. Garlic and its compounds were found to have notable antioxidant properties. Garlic therapeutic potential has also been studied in several inflammatory diseases such as allergic-airway inflammation, inflammatory bowel disease, arthritic rheumatism, and atherosclerosis. Furthermore, garlic was found to be able to maintain the immune system homeostasis and to exhibit beneficial effects on immune cells especially through regulation of proliferation and cytokine gene expression. Finally, we will show how major garlic components such as sulfur compounds and polyphenols might be responsible for the garlic biological activities revealed in different situations. If identified, specific compounds present in garlic could potentially be used in therapy.

Hypoglycemic and hypolipidemic effect of S-allyl-cysteine sulfoxide (alliin) in DIO mice

Alliin (S-allyl cysteine sulfoxide) is a bioactive sulfoxide compound derived from garlic. To evaluate the preventive effect of alliin against metabolic risk factors in diet induced obese (DIO) mice, we treated the C57BL/6J DIO mice with drinking water with or without alliin (0.1 mg/ml) for 8 weeks. Results showed that alliin had no significant effect on the body weight, adiposity or energy balance. However, alliin treatment enhanced glucose homeostasis, increased insulin sensitivity and improved the lipid profile in the DIO mice. This was, at least partly, attributable to alliin induced modulation of the intestinal microbiota composition, typically decreased Lachnospiraceae and increased Ruminococcaceae. From above, we conclude that alliin has nutraceutical or even medicinal potential in prevention of diabetes and lipid metabolic disorders.

Anti-proliferative and cytotoxic activities of Allium autumnale P. H. Davis (Amaryllidaceae) on human breast cancer cell lines MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231

BACKGROUND

Natural products obtained from plants can be potent sources for developing a variety of pharmaceutical products. Allium species have been widely studied for their anti-cancer effects and presented promising results as potential anti-cancer agents. Breast cancer (BCa) is one of the most commonly diagnosed types of cancer in women. In this study, we aimed to investigate the anti-proliferative, cytotoxic and anti-metastatic effects of bulb and stem extracts from Allium autumnale P. H. Davis (Amaryllidaceae), an endemic Allium species to the island of Cyprus, in a comparative approach to weakly metastatic MCF-7 and strongly metastatic MDA-MB-231 breast cancer (BCa) cell lines.

METHODS

Possible cytotoxic, anti-proliferative and anti-metastatic effects of the Allium extracts on MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231 cells were tested using trypan blue exclusion, MTT and wound heal assays, respectively. Gas Chromatography Mass Spectroscopy (GC-MS) analysis was performed to determine the prominent medically important compounds in Allium autumnale bulb (AAB) and Allium autumnale stem (AAS) extracts. Student unpaired t-test or ANOVA followed by Newman-Keuls post hoc analysis (INSTAT Software) was used where appropriate.

RESULTS

Our results demonstrate that AAB extract (24, 48 and 72 h) exerts significant anti-proliferative effect on both MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231 cells where this effect for AAS extract was observed only at high (5000 and 10,000 μg/mL) concentrations. Cell viability experiments revealed that AAB extract incubations caused more cytotoxicity on both BCa cell lines compared to the AAS. In contrast, there was no effect on lateral motilities of either cell line.

CONCLUSION

Overall, our studies demonstrated the anti-cancer activities associated with Allium autumnale, revealing it's cytotoxic and anti-proliferative potential to be further utilized in in vivo studies.

Medicinal plants and bioactive natural compounds in the treatment of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease: A clinical review

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a major cause of liver diseases, and is closely related to metabolic syndrome and its related conditions, diabetes mellitus and dyslipidemia. On the other hand, NAFLD as a multisystem disease increases the risk of several chronic diseases include type 2 diabetes mellitus, cardiovascular disease (CVD), and chronic kidney disease. The main objective was to review the efficacy of bioactive natural compounds assessed by clinical trials. Search literature using four databases (PubMed, EBSCO, Web of Science, and Ovid Medline) to review publications that focused on the impact of bioactive natural compounds in NAFLD treatment. Due to the lack of effective pharmacological treatments available for NAFLD, lifestyle modifications such as following a healthy diet, vigorous physical activity, and weight reduction remain the first line of treatment for NAFLD. However, due to the poor adherence to this type of treatment, especially for long-term weight loss diets some of which may have harmful effects on the liver, finding novel therapeutic agents for NAFLD treatment and/or preventing NAFLD progression has garnered significant interest. Although the therapeutic agents of NAFLD treatment have been reviewed previously, to date, no summary has been conducted of clinical trials examining the effects of herbal compounds on NAFLD-related biomarkers. This review highlights the beneficial role of herbal bioactives and medicinal plants in NAFLD treatment, particularly as complementary to a healthy lifestyle. All natural products described in this review seem to have some benefits to improve oxidative stress, cellular inflammation and insulin-resistance, which always remain as the "primum movens" of NAFLD pathogenesis.

Consumption of garlic and lemon aqueous extracts combination reduces tumor burden by angiogenesis inhibition, apoptosis induction, and immune system modulation

OBJECTIVES

Dietary agents play an important role in cancer prevention and therapy because of their low toxicity and the perception that they are not a medicine. The aim of the present study was to investigate the anticancer effect of the administration of garlic and lemon aqueous extracts against breast cancer implanted in mice.

METHODS

We used 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide assay to determine the antiproliferative effect of both extracts and their combinations. Isobolographic method was used to calculate the combination index. Balb/C mice were inoculated with EMT6/P breast cancer cells and received intragastric administration of one of three treatments (garlic alone, lemon alone, or a combination of both). Change in tumor size and survival rates were measured. TUNEL assay was used to measure apoptosis and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) was used to measure vascular endothelial growth factor expression. Serum levels of interferon-γ, interleukin (IL)-2, IL-4, and IL-10 were measured using ELISA and levels of aspartate transaminase, alanine transaminase, and creatinine were determined.

RESULTS

The combination of both extracts acts synergistically against breast cancer in mice. Of the treated mice, 80% were cured using this combination. This combination inhibited angiogenesis, induced apoptosis, and caused systemic activation in the immune system.

CONCLUSIONS

The combination of garlic and lemon aqueous extracts represents a promising option to develop an anticancer food for augmenting conventional anticancer therapies. However, further testing is essential to understand the exact molecular mechanisms of this combination and to test its therapeutic effect against other cancer models.

Utilization of fermented soybeans paste as flavoring lamination for Turkish dry-cured meat

The effects of utilizing fermented soybeans paste (miso) as an alternative flavor-coating material for eliminating unpleasant odor of sulphuric and sotolone compounds from cemen in commercial pastirma were investigated. Results showed that miso-pastirma (MP) and commercial pastirma (CP) had higher L* values in comparison with the fresh meat. While no pathogen was detected in all the meat samples, statistically significant stearic acid was increased (P<0.05) and also oleic and arachidic acids were observed in MP. SDS-PAGE patterns indicated that miso had higher impacts on muscle proteins than cemen suggesting that miso can generate proteins and peptides with better technological or nutritional properties. None of the sulphur containing compounds responsible for unpleasant odor was detected in MP. Limonene, 5 esters, beta-pinene and saponins in MP contributed to citrus fruit aroma with smoother, roasty flavor and delicious taste. These findings suggest that miso contain good flavoring molecules for enhancing fruity smell and quality of pastirma. Thus, laminating cured meat with miso can be used as an alternative to cemen for producing healthier pastirma with extended shelf life and better flavor.