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Xie J, Shi Y, Luo W, Fang W, Luo L, Zeng L. Effects of theacrine on the astringency of EGCG by affecting salivary protein - EGCG interactions through different molecular mechanisms. Food Chem X 2024; 22:101474. [PMID: 38817981 PMCID: PMC11137526 DOI: 10.1016/j.fochx.2024.101474] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2023] [Revised: 05/05/2024] [Accepted: 05/13/2024] [Indexed: 06/01/2024] Open
Abstract
(-)-Epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) and theacrine are involved in imparting tea with its astringent and bitter tastes. This study investigated the effect of theacrine on the astringency of EGCG and its molecular mechanism. Sensory evaluation was used to study the astringent intensities of EGCG solutions in the presence and absence of various concentrations of theacrine. The results indicated a considerable increase in the astringency values of EGCG-theacrine solutions compared with those of EGCG solutions alone. Furthermore, dynamic light scattering (DLS) and molecular dynamics simulations (MD) were to explore the interaction mechanisms. The results revealed that theacrine increased the particle size of EGCG-proline-rich proteins (PRPs) aggregates with that of EGCG and PRPs alone. MD revealed that theacrine potentially acted as a bridge between EGCG and PRPs, promoting their interaction and intensifying the EGCG's astringency. However, theacrine could not bridge two or more mucins owing to the substantial spatial structure of mucin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jizhou Xie
- Integrative Science Center of Germplasm Creation in Western China (CHONGQING) Science City, College of Food Science, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, China
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Speciality Food Co-Built by Sichuan and Chongqing, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, China
| | - Yu Shi
- Modern Logistics of China Railway No.8 Engineering Group CO., LTD, Chengdu 610306, Sichuan, China
| | - Wei Luo
- Integrative Science Center of Germplasm Creation in Western China (CHONGQING) Science City, College of Food Science, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, China
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Speciality Food Co-Built by Sichuan and Chongqing, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, China
| | - Wei Fang
- Integrative Science Center of Germplasm Creation in Western China (CHONGQING) Science City, College of Food Science, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, China
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Speciality Food Co-Built by Sichuan and Chongqing, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, China
| | - Liyong Luo
- Integrative Science Center of Germplasm Creation in Western China (CHONGQING) Science City, College of Food Science, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, China
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Speciality Food Co-Built by Sichuan and Chongqing, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, China
- Chongqing Tea Technology and Innovation Center, China
| | - Liang Zeng
- Integrative Science Center of Germplasm Creation in Western China (CHONGQING) Science City, College of Food Science, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, China
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Speciality Food Co-Built by Sichuan and Chongqing, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, China
- Chongqing Tea Technology and Innovation Center, China
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2
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Xie L, Yuan Y, Yang F, Jiang H, Yang F, Yang C, Yu Z. Comparative analysis of antioxidant activities and chemical compositions in the extracts of different edible parts from Camellia tetracocca Zhang ( C. tetracocca) with two distinct color characteristics. Food Chem X 2024; 22:101496. [PMID: 38817977 PMCID: PMC11137522 DOI: 10.1016/j.fochx.2024.101496] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2024] [Revised: 05/17/2024] [Accepted: 05/17/2024] [Indexed: 06/01/2024] Open
Abstract
The Camellia tetracocca Zhang is a rare and ancient plant, exclusively found in the vicinity of Puan County, Guizhou Province, China. According to leaf color, two distinct variations have been identified: purple C. tetracocca Zhang (PCTZ) and green C. tetracocca (GCTZ). This research was conducted to investigate the antioxidant activities and chemical compositions of different edible parts of PCTZ and GCTZ. Antioxidant activity was evaluated using DPPH, ABTS, HSA, and T-AOC assays, while the content of compounds was determined by HPLC. The findings demonstrated that the antioxidant capacity of PCTZ leaves is significantly superior to that of GCTZ leaves. Notably, theacrine, a rare compound, contains up to 2.075% in PCTZ leaves, indicating potential as a novel natural antidepressant and antioxidant. In conclusion, PCTZ is a distinctive tea beverage and a valuable genetic material for tea tree breeding due to its high theacrine and low caffeine characteristics.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Feijiao Yang
- School of Life Science, Guizhou Normal University, Guiyang 550025, China
| | - Huqin Jiang
- School of Life Science, Guizhou Normal University, Guiyang 550025, China
| | - Feng Yang
- School of Life Science, Guizhou Normal University, Guiyang 550025, China
| | - Chenju Yang
- School of Life Science, Guizhou Normal University, Guiyang 550025, China
| | - Zhengwen Yu
- School of Life Science, Guizhou Normal University, Guiyang 550025, China
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3
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Qian J, Yu F, Zheng L, Luo D, Zhao M. Comparison of the Protective Effects of Casein Hydrolysate Containing Tyr-Pro-Val-Glu-Pro-Phe and Casein on the Behaviors and Peripheral and Brain Functions in Mice with Chronic-Stress-Induced Anxiety and Insomnia. JOURNAL OF AGRICULTURAL AND FOOD CHEMISTRY 2024; 72:11515-11530. [PMID: 38726599 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jafc.4c01074] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/23/2024]
Abstract
Chronic stress is a major inducer of anxiety and insomnia. Milk casein has been studied for its stress-relieving effects. We previously prepared a casein hydrolysate (CP) rich in the sleep-enhancing peptide YPVEPF, and this study aims to systemically investigate the different protective effects of CP and casein on dysfunction and anxiety/insomnia behavior and its underlying mechanisms in chronically stressed mice. Behavioral results showed that CP ameliorated stress-induced insomnia and anxiety more effectively than milk casein, and this difference in amelioration was highly correlated with an increase in GABA, 5-HT, GABAA, 5-HT1A receptors, and BDNF and a decrease in IL-6 and NMDA receptors in stressed mice. Furthermore, CP restored these dysfunctions in the brain and colon by activating the HPA response, modulating the ERK/CREB-BDNF-TrκB signaling pathway, and alleviating inflammation. The abundant YPVEPF (1.20 ± 0.04%) and Tyr-based/Trp-containing peptides of CP may be the key reasons for its different effects compared to casein. Thus, this work revealed the main active structures of CP and provided a novel dietary intervention strategy for the prevention and treatment of chronic-stress-induced dysfunction and anxiety/insomnia behaviors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jingjing Qian
- School of Food Science and Engineering, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou 510640, China
- Guangdong Food Green Processing and Nutrition Regulation Technologies Research Center, Guangzhou 510650, China
| | - Fengjie Yu
- School of Food Science and Engineering, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou 510640, China
- Guangdong Food Green Processing and Nutrition Regulation Technologies Research Center, Guangzhou 510650, China
| | - Lin Zheng
- School of Food Science and Engineering, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou 510640, China
| | - Donghui Luo
- Chaozhou Branch of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering Guangdong Laboratory, Chaozhou 521000, China
| | - Mouming Zhao
- School of Food Science and Engineering, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou 510640, China
- Chaozhou Branch of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering Guangdong Laboratory, Chaozhou 521000, China
- Guangdong Food Green Processing and Nutrition Regulation Technologies Research Center, Guangzhou 510650, China
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4
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Qian J, Zheng L, Huang M, Zhao M. Potential Mechanisms of Casein Hexapeptide YPVEPF on Stress-Induced Anxiety and Insomnia Mice and Its Molecular Effects and Key Active Structure. JOURNAL OF AGRICULTURAL AND FOOD CHEMISTRY 2024; 72:6189-6202. [PMID: 38501577 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jafc.3c05718] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/20/2024]
Abstract
The hexapeptide YPVEPF with strong sleep-enhancing effects could be detected in rat brain after a single oral administration as we previously proved. In this study, the mechanism and molecular effects of YPVEPF in the targeted stress-induced anxiety mice were first investigated, and its key active structure was further explored. The results showed that YPVEPF could significantly prolong sleep duration and improve the anxiety indexes, including prolonging the time spent in the open arms and in the center. Meanwhile, YPVEPF showed strong sleep-enhancing effects by significantly increasing the level of the GABA/Glu ratio, 5-HT, and dopamine in brain and serum and regulating the anabolism of multiple targets, but the effects could be blocked by bicuculline and WAY100135. Moreover, the molecular simulation results showed that YPVEPF could stably bind to the vital GABAA and 5-HT1A receptors due to the vital structure of Tyr-Pro-Xaa-Xaa-Pro-, and the electrostatic and van der Waals energy played dominant roles in stabilizing the conformation. Therefore, YPVEPF displayed sleep-enhancing and anxiolytic effects by regulating the GABA-Glu metabolic pathway and serotoninergic system depending on distinctive self-folding structures with Tyr and two Pro repeats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jingjing Qian
- School of Food Science and Engineering, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou 510640, China
| | - Lin Zheng
- School of Food Science and Engineering, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou 510640, China
- Guangdong Food Green Processing and Nutrition Regulation Technologies Research Center, Guangzhou 510650, China
- Guangdong Huapeptides Biotechnology Co., Ltd, Zhaoqing 526000, China
| | - Mingtao Huang
- School of Food Science and Engineering, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou 510640, China
| | - Mouming Zhao
- School of Food Science and Engineering, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou 510640, China
- Guangdong Food Green Processing and Nutrition Regulation Technologies Research Center, Guangzhou 510650, China
- Food Laboratory of Zhongyuan, Luohe, Henan 462300, China
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5
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Fukuyama Y, Kubo M, Harada K. Neurotrophic Natural Products. PROGRESS IN THE CHEMISTRY OF ORGANIC NATURAL PRODUCTS 2024; 123:1-473. [PMID: 38340248 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-031-42422-9_1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/12/2024]
Abstract
Neurotrophins (NGF, BDNF, NT3, NT4) can decrease cell death, induce differentiation, as well as sustain the structure and function of neurons, which make them promising therapeutic agents for the treatment of neurodegenerative disorders. However, neurotrophins have not been very effective in clinical trials mostly because they cannot pass through the blood-brain barrier owing to being high-molecular-weight proteins. Thus, neurotrophin-mimic small molecules, which stimulate the synthesis of endogenous neurotrophins or enhance neurotrophic actions, may serve as promising alternatives to neurotrophins. Small-molecular-weight natural products, which have been used in dietary functional foods or in traditional medicines over the course of human history, have a great potential for the development of new therapeutic agents against neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's disease. In this contribution, a variety of natural products possessing neurotrophic properties such as neurogenesis, neurite outgrowth promotion (neuritogenesis), and neuroprotection are described, and a focus is made on the chemistry and biology of several neurotrophic natural products.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yoshiyasu Fukuyama
- Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Tokushima Bunri University, Tokushima, 770-8514, Japan.
| | - Miwa Kubo
- Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Tokushima Bunri University, Tokushima, 770-8514, Japan
| | - Kenichi Harada
- Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Tokushima Bunri University, Tokushima, 770-8514, Japan
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6
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Lv S, Zhang G, Huang Y, Zhong X, Yi Y, Lu Y, Li J, Ma Y, Teng J. Adult hippocampal neurogenesis: pharmacological mechanisms of antidepressant active ingredients in traditional Chinese medicine. Front Pharmacol 2023; 14:1307746. [PMID: 38152691 PMCID: PMC10751940 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2023.1307746] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2023] [Accepted: 12/04/2023] [Indexed: 12/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Depression is characterized by prominent indicators and manifestations, such as anhedonia, which refers to the inability to experience pleasure, and persistent feelings of hopelessness. In clinical practice, the primary treatment approach involves the utilization of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and related pharmacological interventions. Nevertheless, it is crucial to recognize that these agents are associated with significant adverse effects. Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) adopts a multifaceted approach, targeting diverse components, multiple targets, and various channels of action. TCM has potential antidepressant effects. Anomalies in adult hippocampal neurogenesis (AHN) constitute a pivotal factor in the pathology of depression, with the regulation of AHN emerging as a potential key measure to intervene in the pathogenesis and progression of this condition. This comprehensive review presented an overview of the pharmacological mechanisms underlying the antidepressant effects of active ingredients found in TCM. Through examination of recent studies, we explored how these ingredients modulated AHN. Furthermore, we critically assessed the current limitations of research in this domain and proposed novel strategies for preclinical investigation and clinical applications in the treatment of depression in future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shimeng Lv
- Department of First Clinical Medical College, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
| | - Guangheng Zhang
- Department of First Clinical Medical College, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
| | - Yufei Huang
- Ruijin Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Xia Zhong
- Department of First Clinical Medical College, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
| | - Yunhao Yi
- College of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
| | - Yitong Lu
- Department of First Clinical Medical College, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
| | - Jiamin Li
- Department of First Clinical Medical College, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
| | - Yuexiang Ma
- College of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
| | - Jing Teng
- Department of First Clinical Medical College, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, China
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7
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Zhang Q, Jiang Q, Sa K, Liang J, Sun D, Li H, Chen L. Research progress of plant-derived natural alkaloids in central nervous system diseases. Phytother Res 2023; 37:4885-4907. [PMID: 37455555 DOI: 10.1002/ptr.7955] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2022] [Revised: 05/14/2023] [Accepted: 06/30/2023] [Indexed: 07/18/2023]
Abstract
Central nervous system (CNS) disease is one of the most important causes of human death. Because of their complex pathogenesis, more and more attention has been paid to them. At present, drug treatment of the CNS is the main means; however, most drugs only relieve symptoms, and some have certain toxicity and side effects. Natural compounds derived from plants can provide safer and more effective alternatives. Alkaloids are common nitrogenous basic organic compounds found in nature, which exist widely in many kinds of plants and have unique application value in modern medicine. For example, Galantamine and Huperzine A from medicinal plants are widely used drugs on the market to treat Alzheimer's disease. Therefore, the main purpose of this review is to provide the available information on natural alkaloids with the activity of treating central nervous system diseases in order to explore the trends and perspectives for the further study of central nervous system drugs. In this paper, 120 alkaloids with the potential effect of treating central nervous system diseases are summarized from the aspects of sources, structure types, mechanism of action and structure-activity relationship.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qingqing Zhang
- Wuya College of Innovation, Key Laboratory of Structure-Based Drug Design & Discovery, Ministry of Education, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Qinghua Jiang
- Department of Pharmacy, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Kuiru Sa
- Wuya College of Innovation, Key Laboratory of Structure-Based Drug Design & Discovery, Ministry of Education, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Junming Liang
- Wuya College of Innovation, Key Laboratory of Structure-Based Drug Design & Discovery, Ministry of Education, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Dejuan Sun
- Wuya College of Innovation, Key Laboratory of Structure-Based Drug Design & Discovery, Ministry of Education, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Hua Li
- Wuya College of Innovation, Key Laboratory of Structure-Based Drug Design & Discovery, Ministry of Education, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang, China
- College of Pharmacy, Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, China
| | - Lixia Chen
- Wuya College of Innovation, Key Laboratory of Structure-Based Drug Design & Discovery, Ministry of Education, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang, China
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8
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Yang G, Meng Q, Shi J, Zhou M, Zhu Y, You Q, Xu P, Wu W, Lin Z, Lv H. Special tea products featuring functional components: Health benefits and processing strategies. Compr Rev Food Sci Food Saf 2023; 22:1686-1721. [PMID: 36856036 DOI: 10.1111/1541-4337.13127] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2022] [Revised: 12/08/2022] [Accepted: 01/31/2023] [Indexed: 03/02/2023]
Abstract
The functional components in tea confer various potential health benefits to humans. To date, several special tea products featuring functional components (STPFCs) have been successfully developed, such as O-methylated catechin-rich tea, γ-aminobutyric acid-rich tea, low-caffeine tea, and selenium-rich tea products. STPFCs have some unique and enhanced health benefits when compared with conventional tea products, which can meet the specific needs and preferences of different groups and have huge market potential. The processing strategies to improve the health benefits of tea products by regulating the functional component content have been an active area of research in food science. The fresh leaves of some specific tea varieties rich in functional components are used as raw materials, and special processing technologies are employed to prepare STPFCs. Huge progress has been achieved in the research and development of these STPFCs. However, the current status of these STPFCs has not yet been systematically reviewed. Here, studies on STPFCs have been comprehensively reviewed with a focus on their potential health benefits and processing strategies. Additionally, other chemical components with the potential to be developed into special teas and the application of tea functional components in the food industry have been discussed. Finally, suggestions on the promises and challenges for the future study of these STPFCs have been provided. This paper might shed light on the current status of the research and development of these STPFCs. Future studies on STPFCs should focus on screening specific tea varieties, identifying new functional components, evaluating health-promoting effects, improving flavor quality, and elucidating the interactions between functional components.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gaozhong Yang
- Key Laboratory of Tea Biology and Resource Utilization of Ministry of Agriculture, Tea Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Hangzhou, China.,Graduate School of Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Qing Meng
- College of Food Science, Southwest University, Chongqing, China
| | - Jiang Shi
- Key Laboratory of Tea Biology and Resource Utilization of Ministry of Agriculture, Tea Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Hangzhou, China
| | - Mengxue Zhou
- Key Laboratory of Tea Biology and Resource Utilization of Ministry of Agriculture, Tea Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yin Zhu
- Key Laboratory of Tea Biology and Resource Utilization of Ministry of Agriculture, Tea Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Hangzhou, China
| | - Qiushuang You
- Key Laboratory of Tea Biology and Resource Utilization of Ministry of Agriculture, Tea Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Hangzhou, China.,Graduate School of Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Ping Xu
- Institute of Tea Science, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Wenliang Wu
- Tea Research Institute, Hunan Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Changsha, China
| | - Zhi Lin
- Key Laboratory of Tea Biology and Resource Utilization of Ministry of Agriculture, Tea Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Hangzhou, China
| | - Haipeng Lv
- Key Laboratory of Tea Biology and Resource Utilization of Ministry of Agriculture, Tea Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Hangzhou, China
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Strictinin, a Major Ingredient in Yunnan Kucha Tea Possessing Inhibitory Activity on the Infection of Mouse Hepatitis Virus to Mouse L Cells. Molecules 2023; 28:molecules28031080. [PMID: 36770747 PMCID: PMC9921699 DOI: 10.3390/molecules28031080] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2022] [Revised: 01/17/2023] [Accepted: 01/18/2023] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Theacrine and strictinin of Yunnan Kucha tea prepared from a mutant variety of wild Pu'er tea plants were two major ingredients responsible for the anti-influenza activity. As the COVID-19 outbreak is still lurking, developing safe and cost-effective therapeutics is an urgent need. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of these tea compounds on the infection of mouse hepatitis virus (MHV), a β-coronavirus serving as a surrogate for SARS-CoV. Treatment with strictinin (100 μM), but not theacrine, completely eliminated MHV infection, as indicated by a pronounced reduction in plaque formation, nucleocapsid protein expression, and progeny production of MHV. Subsequently, a time-of-drug addition protocol, including pre-, co-, or post-treatment, was exploited to further evaluate the possible mechanism of antiviral activity mediated by strictinin, and remdesivir, a potential drug for the treatment of SARS-CoV-2, was used as a positive control against MHV infection. The results showed that all three treatments of remdesivir (20 μM) completely blocked MHV infection. In contrast, no significant effect on MHV infection was observed when cells were pre-treated with strictinin (100 μM) prior to infection, while significant inhibition of MHV infection was observed when strictinin was introduced upon viral adsorption (co-treatment) and after viral entry (post-treatment). Of note, as compared with the co-treatment group, the inhibitory effect of strictinin was more striking in the post-treatment group. These results indicate that strictinin suppresses MHV infection by multiple mechanisms; it possibly interferes with viral entry and also critical step(s) of viral infection. Evidently, strictinin significantly inhibited MHV infection and might be a suitable ingredient for protection against coronavirus infection.
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New Perspectives on Sleep Regulation by Tea: Harmonizing Pathological Sleep and Energy Balance under Stress. Foods 2022; 11:foods11233930. [PMID: 36496738 PMCID: PMC9738644 DOI: 10.3390/foods11233930] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2022] [Revised: 11/25/2022] [Accepted: 11/26/2022] [Indexed: 12/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Sleep, a conservative evolutionary behavior of organisms to adapt to changes in the external environment, is divided into natural sleep, in a healthy state, and sickness sleep, which occurs in stressful environments or during illness. Sickness sleep plays an important role in maintaining energy homeostasis under an injury and promoting physical recovery. Tea, a popular phytochemical-rich beverage, has multiple health benefits, including lowering stress and regulating energy metabolism and natural sleep. However, the role of tea in regulating sickness sleep has received little attention. The mechanism underlying tea regulation of sickness sleep and its association with the maintenance of energy homeostasis in injured organisms remains to be elucidated. This review examines the current research on the effect of tea on sleep regulation, focusing on the function of tea in modulating energy homeostasis through sickness sleep, energy metabolism, and damage repair in model organisms. The potential mechanisms underlying tea in regulating sickness sleep are further suggested. Based on the biohomology of sleep regulation, this review provides novel insights into the role of tea in sleep regulation and a new perspective on the potential role of tea in restoring homeostasis from diseases.
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11
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Li HZ, Liu KG, Zeng NX, Wu XF, Lu WJ, Xu HF, Yan C, Wu LL. Luteolin Enhances Choroid Plexus 5-MTHF Brain Transport to Promote Hippocampal Neurogenesis in LOD Rats. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:826568. [PMID: 35401160 PMCID: PMC8993213 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.826568] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2022] [Accepted: 02/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Folates, provided by food, are commonly used antidepressant synergists in late-onset depression (LOD). However, increased intake of folic acid in the elderly population might lead to the accumulation of unmetabolized folic acid in the systemic circulation, leading to enhanced deterioration of the central nervous system function. In addition, folates cannot access the brain directly because of the blood-brain barrier. Choroid plexus (CP) 5-methyltetrahydrofolate (5-MTHF) brain transport plays a critical role in regulating the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) 5-MTHF content. Luteolin is a natural flavonoid that has antidepressant effects and is involved in the anti-folate resistance pathway. It remains unclear whether the antidepressant effects of luteolin are associated with the CP 5-MTHF brain transport. In this study, 20-21-month-old Wistar rats were exposed to the chronic unpredictable mild stress (CUMS) protocol for 6 consecutive weeks to explore the long-term effects of luteolin on behavior, 5-MTHF levels, hippocampal neurogenesis, and folate brain transport of the CP. In vitro primary hippocampal neural stem cells (NSCs) cultured in media containing 10% CSF from each group of rats and choroid plexus epithelial cells (CPECs) cultured in media containing 20 μM luteolin were treated with 100 μM corticosterone and 40 mg/ml D-galactose. We found that aged rats exposed to CUMS showed a significantly reduced sucrose preference, decreased locomotion activity in the open field test and accuracy of the Morris water maze test, increased immobility time in the forced swimming test, accelerated dysfunctional neurogenesis and neuronal loss in the dentate gyrus of LOD rats, as well as decreased CSF and hippocampus 5-MTHF levels, and zona occludens protein 1 (ZO-1), proton-coupled folate transporter (PCFT), and reduced folate carrier (RFC) protein levels. In vitro assays showed media containing 10% aged CSF or LOD+ Luteolin-CSF significantly increased the viability of CORT + D-gal-injured NSCs and alleviated dysfunctional neurogenesis and neuronal loss compared with the CORT + D-gal medium. However, media containing 10% LOD-CSF had no such effect. In the meantime, induction of CORT + D-gal significantly decreased the ZO-1, PCFT, RFC, and folate receptor alpha (FR-α) protein levels and transepithelial electrical resistance in rat CPECs. As expected, luteolin treatment was effective in improving these abnormal changes. These findings suggested that luteolin could ameliorate CUMS-induced LOD-like behaviors by enhancing the folate brain transport.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hui-Zhen Li
- Research Center for Basic Integrative Medicine, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Kai-Ge Liu
- Research Center for Basic Integrative Medicine, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Ning-Xi Zeng
- Research Center for Basic Integrative Medicine, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xiao-Feng Wu
- Research Center for Basic Integrative Medicine, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Wen-Jun Lu
- Research Center for Basic Integrative Medicine, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Han-Fang Xu
- Research Center for Basic Integrative Medicine, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Can Yan
- Research Center for Basic Integrative Medicine, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
| | - Li-Li Wu
- Research Center for Basic Integrative Medicine, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, China
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12
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Discriminant Analysis of Pu-Erh Tea of Different Raw Materials Based on Phytochemicals Using Chemometrics. Foods 2022; 11:foods11050680. [PMID: 35267314 PMCID: PMC8909724 DOI: 10.3390/foods11050680] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2022] [Revised: 02/20/2022] [Accepted: 02/22/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Pu-erh tea processed from the sun-dried green tea leaves can be divided into ancient tea (AT) and terrace tea (TT) according to the source of raw material. However, their similar appearance makes AT present low market identification, resulting in a disruption in the tea market rules of fair trade. Therefore, this study analyzed the classification by principal component analysis/hierarchical clustering analysis and conducted the discriminant model through stepwise Fisher discriminant analysis and decision tree analysis based on the contents of water extract, phenolic components, alkaloid, and amino acids, aiming to investigate whether phytochemicals coupled with chemometric analyses distinguish AT and TT. Results showed that there were good separations between AT and TT, which was caused by 16 components with significant (p < 0.05) differences. The discriminant model of AT and TT was established based on six discriminant variables including water extract, (+)-catechin, (−)-epicatechin, (−)-epigallocatechin, theacrine, and theanine. Among them, water extract comprised multiple soluble solids, representing the thickness of tea infusion. The model had good generalization capability with 100% of performance indexes according to scores of the training set and model set. In conclusion, phytochemicals coupled with chemometrics analyses are a good approach for the identification of different raw materials.
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Identification of Co-Expressed Genes Related to Theacrine Synthesis in Tea Flowers at Different Developmental Stages. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms222413394. [PMID: 34948193 PMCID: PMC8704887 DOI: 10.3390/ijms222413394] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2021] [Revised: 12/01/2021] [Accepted: 12/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Jiaocheng kucha is the first reported tea germplasm resource which contains theacrine founded in Fujian Province. Currently, the anabolic mechanism of theacrine within tea leaves is clear, but there are few studies focused on its flowers. In order to further explore the mechanism of theacrine synthesis and related genes in flowers, current study applied Jiaocheng kucha flowers (JC) as test materials and Fuding Dabaicha flowers (FD) as control materials to make transcriptome sequencing, and determination of purine alkaloid content in three different developmental periods (flower bud stage, whitening stage and full opening stage). The results showed that the flower in all stages of JC contained theacrine. The theacrine in the flower bud stage was significantly higher than in the other stages. The differentially expressed genes (DEGs) at three different developmental stages were screened from the transcriptome data, and were in a total of 5642, 8640 and 8465. These DEGs related to the synthesis of theacrine were primarily annotated to the pathways of purine alkaloids. Among them, the number of DEGs in xanthine synthesis pathway was the largest and upregulated in JC, while it was the smallest in caffeine synthesis pathway and downregulated in JC. Further weighted gene co-expression network (WGCNA) indicated that ADSL (CsTGY03G0002327), ADSL (CsTGY09G0001824) and UAZ (CsTGY06G0002694) may be a hub gene for the regulation of theacrine metabolism in JC. Our results will contribute to the identification of candidate genes related to the synthesis of theacrine in tea flowers, and explore the molecular mechanism of theacrine synthesis in JC at different developmental stages.
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Attenuation of Tumor Development in Mammary Carcinoma Rats by Theacrine, an Antagonist of Adenosine 2A Receptor. Molecules 2021; 26:molecules26247455. [PMID: 34946538 PMCID: PMC8706909 DOI: 10.3390/molecules26247455] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2021] [Revised: 12/06/2021] [Accepted: 12/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Caffeine has been reported to induce anti-tumor immunity for attenuating breast cancer by blocking the adenosine 2A receptor. Molecular modeling showed that theacrine, a purine alkaloid structurally similar to caffeine, might be an antagonist of the adenosine 2A receptor equivalent to or more effective than caffeine. Theacrine was further demonstrated to be an effective antagonist of the adenosine 2A receptor as its concurrent supplementation significantly reduced the elevation of AMPK phosphorylation level in MCF-7 human breast cells induced by CGS21680, an agonist of adenosine 2A receptors. In an animal model, the development of mammary carcinoma induced by 7,12-Dimethylbenz[a]anthracene in Sprague–Dawley rats could be attenuated by daily supplement of theacrine of 50 or 100 mg/kg body weight. Both expression levels of cleaved-caspase-3/pro-caspase-3 and granzyme B in tumor tissues were significantly elevated when theacrine was supplemented, indicating the induction of programmed cell death in tumor cells might be involved in the attenuation of mammary carcinoma. Similar to the caffeine, significant elevation of interferon-γ and tumor necrosis factor-α was observed in the serum and tumor tissues of rats after the theacrine supplement of 50 mg/kg body weight. Taken together, theacrine is an effective antagonist of adenosine 2A receptors and possesses great potential to be used to attenuate breast cancer.
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