Regulation effects of Crataegus pinnatifida leaf on glucose and lipids metabolism

The lipase inhibitory effect of mulberry leaf phenolic glycosides: The structure-activity relationship and mechanism of action

The present study found for the first time that phenolic glycosides were an important material basis for mulberry leaves to inhibit lipase. The corresponding IC50 for hyperoside, rutin, astragalin and quercetin were 68, 252, 385 and 815 μg/mL respectively. The inhibitory effect was ranked as monoglycosides > phenolic hydroxyl groups > disaccharides on the benzone ring. Hyperoside bound to lipase in competitive inhibition type with one binding site, while the others bound to lipase in a mixed inhibition type by two similar sites. All four compounds altered the microenvironment and secondary conformation of lipase through static quenching. The docking score, stability, and binding energy were consistent with the compound inhibitory activity. The main binding between compounds and lipase amino acid residues were spontaneously though hydrophobic interactions and hydrogen bonding. The strong hydrogen bonds formed with SER-152 inside the lipase pocket, might be important for the strong inhibitory activity of hyperoside.

Hawthorn leaf flavonoids alleviate the deterioration of atherosclerosis by inhibiting SCAP-SREBP2-LDLR pathway through sPLA2-ⅡA signaling in macrophages in mice

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Hawthorn leaves are a combination of the dried leaves of the Rosaceae plants, i.e., Crataegus pinnatifida Bge. or Crataegus pinnatifida Bge. var. major N. E. Br., is primarily cultivated in East Asia, North America, and Europe. hawthorn leaf flavonoids (HLF) are the main part of extraction. The HLF have demonstrated potential in preventing hypertension, inflammation, hyperlipidemia, and atherosclerosis. However, the potential pharmacological mechanism behind its anti-atherosclerotic effect has yet to be explored.

AIM OF THE STUDY

The in vivo and in vitro effects of HLF on lipid-mediated foam cell formation were investigated, with a specific focus on the levels of secreted phospholipase A2 type IIA (sPLA2-II A) in macrophage cells.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The primary constituents of HLF were analyzed using ultra-high performance liquid chromatography and liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry. In vivo, HLF, at concentrations of 5 mg/kg, 20 mg/kg, and 40 mg/kg, were administered to apolipoprotein E knockout mice (ApoE-/-) fed by high-fat diet (HFD) for 16 weeks. Aorta and serum samples were collected to identify lesion areas and lipids through mass spectrometry analysis to dissect the pathological process. RAW264.7 cells were incubated with oxidized low-density lipoprotein (ox-LDL) alone, or ox-LDL combined with different doses of HLF (100, 50, and 25 μg/ml), or ox-LDL plus 24-h sPLA2-IIA inhibitors, for cell biology analysis. Lipids and inflammatory cytokines were detected using biochemical analyzers and ELISA, while plaque size and collagen content of plaque were assessed by HE and the Masson staining of the aorta. The lipid deposition in macrophages was observed by Oil Red O staining. The expression of sPLA2-IIA and SCAP-SREBP2-LDLR was determined by RT-qPCR and Western blot analysis.

RESULTS

The chemical profile of HLF was studied using UPLC-Q-TOF-MS/MS, allowing the tentative identification of 20 compounds, comprising 1 phenolic acid, 9 flavonols and 10 flavones, including isovitexin, vitexin-4″-O-glucoside, quercetin-3-O-robibioside, rutin, vitexin-2″-O-rhamnoside, quercetin, etc. HLF decreased total cholesterol (TC), triglycerides (TG), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), and non-high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (non-HDL-C) levels in ApoE-/- mice (P < 0.05), reduced ox-LDL uptake, inhibited level of inflammatory factors, such as IL-6, IL-8, TNF-α, and IL-1ꞵ (P < 0.001), and alleviated aortic plaques with a thicker fibrous cap. HLF effectively attenuated foam cell formation in ox-LDL-treated RAW264.7 macrophages, and reduced levels of intracellular TC, free cholesterol (FC), cholesteryl ester (CE), IL-6, TNF-α, and IL-1β (P < 0.001). In both in vivo and in vitro experiments, HLF significantly downregulated the expression of sPLA2-IIA, SCAP, SREBP2, LDLR, HMGCR, and LOX-1 (P < 0.05). Furthermore, sPLA2-IIA inhibitor effectively mitigated inflammatory release in RAW264.7 macrophages and regulated SCAP-SREBP2-LDLR signaling pathway by inhibiting sPLA2-IIA secretion (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

HLF exerted a protective effect against atherosclerosis through inhibiting sPLA2-IIA to diminish SCAP-SREBP2-LDLR signaling pathway, to reduce LDL uptake caused foam cell formation, and to slow down the progression of atherosclerosis in mice.

Antioxidant and antihyperlipidemic effects of hawthorn extract (Crataegus oxyacantha) in broiler chickens

BACKGROUND

One of the main problems in the poultry industry is excess body fat, and the anti-fat effect of Cratagus extract has been confirmed in several studies.

OBJECTIVES

The present study was carried out to investigate the effects of hawthorn extract (Crataegus oxyacantha) on growth performance, haematological variables and hepatic gene expression in broiler chickens reared at high altitude (2100 m).

METHODS

A total of 225-day-old chicks (Ross 308) were randomly distributed into three treatments. Experimental treatments were prepared by adding 0.0, 0.2 and 0.4 mL of hawthorn extract per litre of consumption of water.

RESULTS

The results showed that weight gain and feed conversion ratio were significantly improved and abdominal fat decreased by consumption of two levels of Crateagus extract when compared to the control (p < 0.05). Consumption of hawthorn extract decreased circulatory levels of malondialdehyde, triacylglycerol, total cholesterol and low-density lipoproteins cholesterol but increased ferric reducing antioxidant power and high-density lipoproteins cholesterol (p < 0.05). Hawthorn extract caused an up-regulation of catalase, superoxide dismutase1, glutathione peroxidase1 and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor alpha but reduced the expression of key lipogenic enzymes (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Overall, consumption of 0.4 mL hawthorn extract per litre of drinking water, improved growth performance, suppressed lipogenesis and enhanced antioxidant response.

Efficacy of Crataegus Extract Mixture on Body Fat and Lipid Profiles in Overweight Adults: A 12-Week, Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Trial

A Crataegus Extract Mixture (CEM) is a combination of extracts from Crataegus pinnatifida leaves and Citrus unshiu peels, well-known herbs used for treating obesity and dyslipidemia. We aimed to investigate the efficacy and safety of a CEM on the body fat and lipid profiles in overweight adults. A 12-week, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, parallel-group trial was conducted on 105 subjects aged 20-60 years with body mass indexes between 25 and 30 kg/m2. Eligible subjects were randomly assigned in a 1:1:1 ratio to receive either a high dose of the CEM (400 mg tid), a low dose of the CEM (280 mg tid), or a placebo. Body fat was evaluated using dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA), bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA), and anthropometric measurements. The blood lipid and adipokine profiles were measured before and after the administration. After 12 weeks, the reductions in the fat percentages measured by DXA and BIA were significantly greater in the CEM groups than in the placebo group. The CEM also significantly decreased the body weights, body mass indexes, and blood leptin levels. An additional per-protocol analysis revealed that the high dose of the CEM also lowered the blood levels of triglycerides and very low-density lipoprotein cholesterol. No adverse events occurred after the CEM treatment. Our results suggest that CEMs are safe and effective for reducing the body fat and body weight and regulating the blood lipid and leptin levels in overweight or mildly obese individuals.

Traditional uses, phytochemistry, pharmacology, and safety concerns of hawthorn (Crataegus genus): A comprehensive review

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

The genus Crataegus (hawthorn), a member of the Rosaceae family, encompasses several species with broad geographical distribution across the Northern Hemisphere, including Asia, Europe, and the Americas. Hawthorn is recognized as an edible medicinal plant with applications related to strengthening the digestive system, promoting blood circulation, and resolving blood stasis.

AIM OF THE REVIEW

This study critically summarized the traditional uses, phytochemistry, and pharmacological properties to provide a theoretical basis for further studies on hawthorn and its applications in medicine and food.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The available information on hawthorn was gathered from scientific databases (including Google Scholar, Web of Science, PubMed, ScienceDirect, Baidu Scholar, CNKI, online ethnobotanical databases, and ethnobotanical monographs, and considered data from 1952 to 2023). Information about traditional uses, phytochemistry, pharmacology, and safety concerns of the collected data is comprehensively summarized in this paper.

RESULTS

The literature review revealed that hawthorn includes more than 1000 species primarily distributed in the northern temperate zone. Traditional uses of hawthorn have lasted for millennia in Asia, Europe, and the Americas. Within the past decade, 337 chemical compounds, including flavonoids, lignans, fatty acids and organic acids, monoterpenoids and sesquiterpenoids, terpenoids and steroids, have been identified from hawthorn. Modern pharmacological studies have confirmed numerous bioactivities, such as cardiovascular system influence, antitumor activity, hepatoprotective activity, antimicrobial properties, immunomodulatory functions, and anti-inflammatory activities. Additionally, evaluations have indicated that hawthorn lacks toxicity.

CONCLUSIONS

Based on its traditional uses, chemical composition, and pharmacological studies, hawthorn has significant potential as a medicinal and edible plant with a diverse range of pharmacological activities. Traditional uses of the hawthorn include the treatment of indigestion, dysmenorrhea, and osteoporosis. However, modern pharmacological research primarily focuses on its cardiovascular and cerebrovascular system effects, antitumor effects, and liver protection properties. Currently, there is a lack of correlative research involving its traditional uses and pharmacological activities. Moreover, phytochemical and pharmacological research has yet to focus on many types of hawthorn with traditional applications. Therefore, it is imperative to research the genus Crataegus extensively.

Simultaneous Separation and Determination of Nine Active Ingredients in Sanyetangzhiqing by Cyclodextrin-Modified Micellar Electrokinetic Capillary Electrophoresis-Diode Array Detector

A simple and sensitive strategy using cyclodextrin-modified micellar electrokinetic chromatography with diode array detector was developed and applied for the simultaneous separation and determination of nine components in Sanyetangzhiqing (SYTZQ), a hypoglycemic and hypolipidemic agent. Several important parameters affecting separation performance were evaluated and optimized using single variable methods. Under the optimal conditions, baseline separation of the nine components, including four flavonoids (hyperoside, isoquercitrin, quercetin-3-O-glucuronoside, and astragalin), four phenolic acids (chlorogenic acid, rosmarinic acid, salvianolic acid B, and lithospermic acid), and a monoterpenoids (paeoniflorin), were achieved in less than 16 min. The correlation coefficients of the calibration curves were over 0.9996 for all the analytes. Intraday and interday precisions ranged from 0.4% to 4.8% and 1.7% to 5.0%, respectively. Recoveries of analytes varied from 95.3% to 105%. Validation results as well as the application to analyse SYTZQ samples demonstrated the applicability of the proposed method and thus provided an effective tool for the quality control of SYTZQ. Moreover, with the advantages of short time consuming, low energy consumption, high efficiency, and low cost, this method has laid a foundation for the determination and quality evaluation of multicomponents in Chinese herbal compounds.

Advances in the study of the vascular protective effects and molecular mechanisms of hawthorn (Crataegus anamesa Sarg.) extracts in cardiovascular diseases

Hawthorn belongs to the rose family and is a type of functional food. It contains various chemicals, including flavonoids, terpenoids, and organic acid compounds. This study aimed to review the vascular protective effects and molecular mechanisms of hawthorn and its extracts on cardiovascular diseases (CVDs). Hawthorn has a wide range of biological functions. Evidence suggests that the active components of HE reduce oxidative stress and inflammation, regulate lipid levels to prevent lipid accumulation, and inhibit free cholesterol accumulation in macrophages and foam cell formation. Additionally, hawthorn extract (HE) can protect vascular endothelial function, regulate endothelial dysfunction, and promote vascular endothelial relaxation. It has also been reported that the effective components of hawthorn can prevent age-related endothelial dysfunction, increase cellular calcium levels, cause antiplatelet aggregation, and promote antithrombosis. In clinical trials, HE has been proved to reduce the adverse effects of CVDs on blood lipids, blood pressure, left ventricular ejection fraction, heart rate, and exercise tolerance. Previous studies have pointed to the benefits of hawthorn and its extracts in treating atherosclerosis and other vascular diseases. Therefore, as both medicine and food, hawthorn can be used as a new drug source for treating cardiovascular diseases.

Four pair of enantiomeric benzofuran lignans from the fruits of Crataegus pinnatifida bunge

Phytochemical investigation of the fruits of Crataegus pinnatifida Bunge led to the isolation of four pairs enantiomeric benzofuran lignans (1a/1b-4a/4b) including four undescribed compounds (1a, 2b, 3b and 4b). Their structures were determined by extensive spectroscopic methods and the absolute configurations were further determined by the comparison of experimental and calculated ECD spectra. All the enantiomeric lignans were evaluated for their inhibitory activities to tyrosinase. Among them, compound 4a showed moderate inhibition activity (IC₅₀ = 0.54 mM).

Crataegus pinnatifida: A botanical, ethnopharmacological, phytochemical, and pharmacological overview

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Crataegus pinnatifida belongs to the Rosaceae family and extensively distribute in North China, Europe, and North America. Its usage was first described in "Xinxiu Ben Cao." The dried fruits of Crataegus pinnatifida Bunge or Crataegus pinnatifida var. major N. E. Br., also known as "Shanzha," is a famous medicine and food homology herb with a long history of medicinal usage in China. C. pinnatifida has the functions for digestive promotion, cardiovascular protection, and lipid reduction. It was traditionally used to treat indigestion, cardiodynia, thoracalgia, hernia, postpartum blood stagnation, and hemafecia. In recent years, C. pinnatifida has attracted worldwide attention as an important medicinal and economical crop due to its multiple and excellent health-promoting effects on cardiovascular, nervous, digestive, endocrine systems, and morbigenous microorganisms of the human body due to its medicinal and nutritional values.

AIM OF THE REVIEW

The current review aims to provide a comprehensive analysis of the geographical distribution, traditional usage, phytochemical components, pharmacological actions, clinical settings, and toxicities of C. pinnatifida. Moreover, the connection between the claimed biological activities and the traditional usage, along with the future perspectives for ongoing research on this plant, were also critically summarized.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We collected the published literature on C. pinnatifida using a variety of scientific databases, including Web of Science, ScienceDirect, PubMed, Wiley, Springer, Taylor & Francis, ACS Publications, Google Scholar, Baidu Scholar, CNKI, The Plant List Database, and other literature sources (Ph.D. and MSc dissertations) from 2012 to 2022.

RESULTS

In the last decade, over 250 phytochemical compounds containing lignans, phenylpropanoids, flavonoids, triterpenoids, and their glycosides, as well as other compounds, have been isolated and characterized from different parts, including the fruit, leaves, and seeds of C. pinnatifida. Among these compounds, flavonoids and triterpenoids were major bioactive components of C. pinnatifida. They exhibited a broad spectrum of pharmacological actions with low toxicity in vitro and in vivo, such as cardiovascular protection, neuroprotection, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antibacterial, antiviral, anti-diabetes, anti-cancer, anti-mutagenic, anti-osteoporosis, anti-aging, anti-obesity, and hepatoprotection and other actions.

CONCLUSION

A long history of traditional uses and abundant pharmacochemical and pharmacological investigations have demonstrated that C. pinnatifida is an important medicine and food homology herb, which displays outstanding therapeutic potential, especially in the digestive system and cardiovascular disease. Nevertheless, the current studies on the active ingredients or crude extracts of C. pinnatifida and the possible mechanism of action are unclear. More evidence-based scientific studies are required to verify the traditional uses of C. pinnatifida. Furthermore, more efforts must be paid to selecting index components for quality control research and toxicity and safety studies of C. pinnatifida.

Transcriptomic and metabolomic analyses reveal how girdling promotes leaf color expression in Acer rubrum L

BACKGROUND

Acer rubrum L. (red maple) is a popular tree with attractive colored leaves, strong physiological adaptability, and a high ornamental value. Changes in leaf color can be an adaptive response to changes in environmental factors, and also a stress response to external disturbances. In this study, we evaluated the effect of girdling on the color expression of A. rubrum leaves. We studied the phenotypic characteristics, physiological and biochemical characteristics, and the transcriptomic and metabolomic profiles of leaves on girdled and non-girdled branches of A. rubrum.

RESULTS

Phenotypic studies showed that girdling resulted in earlier formation of red leaves, and a more intense red color in the leaves. Compared with the control branches, the girdled branches produced leaves with significantly different color parameters a*. Physiological and biochemical studies showed that girdling of branches resulted in uneven accumulation of chlorophyll, carotenoids, anthocyanins, and other pigments in leaves above the band. In the transcriptomic and metabolomic analyses, 28,432 unigenes including 1095 up-regulated genes and 708 down-regulated genes were identified, and the differentially expressed genes were mapped to various KEGG (kyoto encyclopedia of genes and genomes) pathways. Six genes encoding key transcription factors related to anthocyanin metabolism were among differentially expressed genes between leaves on girdled and non-girdled branches.

CONCLUSIONS

Girdling significantly affected the growth and photosynthesis of red maple, and affected the metabolic pathways, biosynthesis of secondary metabolites, and carbon metabolisms in the leaves. This resulted in pigment accumulation in the leaves above the girdling site, leading to marked red color expression in those leaves. A transcriptome analysis revealed six genes encoding anthocyanin-related transcription factors that were up-regulated in the leaves above the girdling site. These transcription factors are known to be involved in the regulation of phenylpropanoid biosynthesis, anthocyanin biosynthesis, and flavonoid biosynthesis. These results suggest that leaf reddening is a complex environmental adaptation strategy to maintain normal metabolism in response to environmental changes. Overall, the results of these comprehensive phenotype, physiological, biochemical, transcriptomic, and metabolomic analyses provide a deeper and more reliable understanding of the coevolution of red maple leaves in response to environmental changes.

Botany, traditional uses, phytochemistry and pharmacological activity of Crataegus pinnatifida (Chinese hawthorn): a review

OBJECTIVES

Crataegus pinnatifida (C. pinnatifida), including C. pinnatifida Bge. and its variant C. pinnatifida Bge. var. major N, E. Br., has traditionally been used as a homologous plant for traditional medicine and food in ethnic medical systems in China. Crataegus pinnatifida, especially its fruit, has been used for more than 2000 years to treat indigestion, stagnation of meat, hyperlipidemia, blood stasis, heart tingling, sores, etc. This review aimed to provide a systematic summary on the botany, traditional uses, phytochemistry, pharmacology and clinical applications of C. pinnatifida.

KEY FINDINGS

This plant contains flavonoids, phenylpropanoids, terpenoids, organic acids, saccharides and essential oils. Experimental studies showed that it has hypolipidemic, antimyocardial, anti-ischemia, antithrombotic, anti-atherosclerotic, anti-inflammatory, antineoplastic neuroprotective activity, etc. Importantly, it has good effects in treating diseases of the digestive system and cardiovascular and cerebrovascular systems.

SUMMARY

There is convincing evidence from both in vitro and in vivo studies supporting the traditional uses of C. pinnatifida. However, multitarget network pharmacology and molecular docking technology should be used to study the interaction between the active ingredients and targets of C. pinnatifida. Furthermore, exploring the synergy of C. pinnatifida with other Chinese medicines to provide new understanding of complex diseases may be a promising strategy.

Molecular Mechanisms of Hawthorn Extracts in Multiple Organs Disorders in Underlying of Diabetes: A Review

Diabetes mellitus (DM) is one of the most important metabolic disorders associated with chronic hyperglycemia and occurs when the body cannot manage insulin secretion, insulin action, or both. Autoimmune destruction of pancreatic beta cells and insulin resistance are the major pathophysiological factors of types 1 and 2 of DM, respectively. Prolonged hyperglycemia leads to multiple organs dysfunctions, including nephropathy, neuropathy, cardiomyopathy, gastropathy, and micro- and macrovascular disorders. The basis of the metabolic abnormalities in carbohydrate, fat, and protein in diabetes is insufficient action of insulin on various target tissues. Medicinal plants are rich sources of bioactive chemical compounds with therapeutic effects. The beneficial effects of leaves, fruits, and flowers extracts of Crataegus oxyacantha, commonly called hawthorn, belonging to the Rosaceae family, are widely used as hawthorn-derived medicines. Data in this review have been collected from the scientific articles published in databases such as Science Direct, Scopus, PubMed, Web of Science, and Scientific Information Database from 2000 to 2021. Based on this review, hawthorn extracts appear both therapeutic and protective effects against diabetic-related complications in various organs through molecular mechanisms, such as decreasing triglyceride, cholesterol, very low density lipoprotein and increasing the antioxidant activity of superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione peroxidase, total antioxidant capacity, decreasing malondialdehyde level, and attenuating tumor necrosis factor alpha, interleukin 6 and sirtuin 1/AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK)/nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) pathway and increasing the phosphorylation of glucose transporter 4, insulin receptor substrate 1, AKT and phosphoinositide 3-kinases, and attenuating blood sugar and regulation of insulin secretion, insulin resistance, and improvement of histopathological changes in pancreatic beta cells. Collectively, hawthorn can be considered as one new target for the research and development of innovative drugs for the prevention or treatment of DM and related problems.

Dietary hawthorn-leaves flavonoids improves ovarian function and liver lipid metabolism in aged breeder hens

Hawthorn-leaves flavonoids (HF), extracted from hawthorn leaves, were reported to exert antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and hypolipidemic properties. The aim of our study was to investigate the effects of dietary HF on the reproduction performance and liver lipid metabolism of aged breeder hens. A total of 270 aged Qiling breeder hens (60-wk-old) were randomly divided into 3 treatments: 1) basic corn-soybean diet (CON); 2) basic corn-soybean diet supplemented with 30 mg/kg HF (LHF); 3) basic corn-soybean diet supplemented with 60 mg/kg HF (HHF). The results showed that supplemented HF significantly improved the egg-laying rate and hatching rate of aged breeder hens (P < 0.05). HF treatment reduced the serum TG, T-CHO and L-LDL levels (P < 0.05), and upregulated the mRNA expressions of ESR1, ESR2, VTGⅡ, ApoB, and ApoVI in the liver (P < 0.05). Serum estrogen levels in HF treated groups were elevated compared with the CON group (P < 0.05). In the HHF group, the number of the primordial follicles was higher in comparison with the CON group (P < 0.05). Furthermore, dietary supplementation with HF improved the activity of antioxidant enzymes (T-AOC, GSH-Pχ) (P < 0.05), following with the reversed ovarian apoptosis and morphological damage. In addition, 60 mg/kg dietary HF upregulated the protein expression of PCNA and Nrf2 in the ovary (P < 0.05). In summary, dietary supplementation with HF could improve the reproduction performance through regulating liver lipid metabolism and improving ovarian function in aged breeder hens.

Three new sesquineolignans from the fruits of Crataegus pinnatifida

Chemical investigations of the 75% EtOH extract from the fruits of Crataegus pinnatifida led to the isolation of three undescribed naturally occurring sesquineolignans with two 8-O-4'-type neolignan moieties, cratapinnatifidas A-C (1-3). Their chemical structures were elucidated by the comprehensive spectroscopic analyses (HRESIMS, 1D and 2D-NMR). In the bioactivity assay, their cytotoxic activities against two human hepatoma cell lines (HepG2 and Hep3B) were evaluated and no significant activity was seen with IC₅₀ values ranging from 12.5 to 50.0 μM.

Value Addition and Fortification in Non-Centrifugal Sugar (Jaggery): A Potential Source of Functional and Nutraceutical Foods

Nutraceutical, functional or fortified food not only supplements the diet but also assists in developing immunity and preventing diseases. Therefore, it also provides medical benefits apart from nutrition. Individual health and diet are receiving a lot of attention these days. Food products that are healthy, safe, and easy to use are in high demand. A lot of emphases has been directed toward food products with added health benefits. Jaggery (non-centrifugal sugar), made from sugarcane juice, is one of them. It is known to mankind for the last 3000 years and is an essential part of the diet in the rural part of many countries. Jaggery is recognized as a nutraceutical due to the presence of a variety of essential amino acids, antioxidants, phenolics, minerals like calcium, phosphorus, iron, and vitamins. Jaggery has a better natural source and nutrients for health benefits and could be used as a healthier dietary substitute to white sugar. The nutraceutical value of jaggery can be enhanced with value addition and fortification of medicinally important herbs and spices. This would not only enhance the quality of nutritive jaggery but will also offer value-added products with exciting flavors for daily use sweeteners with several nutritional health benefits.

Phenolic compounds from the leaves of Crataegus pinnatifida Bge. var. major N.E.Br. And their lipid-lowering effects

A phytochemical study on the leaves of Crataegus pinnatifida Bge. var. major N.E.Br. was carried out, which finally led to the isolation of nineteen phenolic compounds (1-19). The structures of all compounds were established mainly by NMR and MS spectroscopic analysis as well as the necessary ECD experimental evidence, of which compounds 1-4 (crataegunins A-D) were identified as new phenylpropanoid-substituted epicatechins. HepG2 cells were induced by oleic acid and palmitic acid to establish the model of lipid metabolism disorder. All isolated compounds were used to intervene in the model, and the contents of triglyceride (TG) and total cholesterol (TC) were detected. Compound 2 could significantly reduce the content of TG, while compounds 2 and 11 both have good activity in reducing TC content.

Determination of Flavonoids Compounds of Three Species and Different Harvesting Periods in Crataegi folium Based on LC-MS/MS

Crataegi folium have been used as medicinal and food materials worldwide due to its pharmacological activities. Although the leaves of Crataegus songorica (CS), Crataegus altaica (CA) and Crataegus kansuensis (CK) have rich resources in Xinjiang, China, they can not provide insights into edible and medicinal aspects. Few reports are available on the qualitative and quantitative analysis of flavonoids compounds of their leaves. Therefore, it is necessary to develop efficient methods to determine qualitative and quantitative flavonoids compounds in leaves of CS, CA and CK. In the study, 28 unique compounds were identified in CS versus CK by qualitative analysis. The validated quantitative method was employed to determine the content of eight flavonoids of the leaves of CS, CA and CK within 6 min. The total content of eight flavonoids was 7.8–15.1 mg/g, 0.1–9.1 mg/g and 4.8–10.7 mg/g in the leaves of CS, CA and CK respectively. Besides, the best harvesting periods of the three species were from 17th to 26th September for CS, from 30th September to 15th October for CA and CK. The validated and time-saving method was successfully implemented for the analysis of the content of eight flavonoids compounds in CS, CA and CK for the first time.

Chloroplast genome for Crataegus pinnatifida (Rosaceae) and phylogenetic analyses with its coordinal species

Crataegus pinnatifida is an important medicinal and edible plant. Now, the complete chloroplast (cp) genome of C. pinnatifida was assembled and annotated. The cp genome of C. pinnatifida was 159,898 bp and contained two short inverted repeat regions (26,540 bp) which were separated by a small single copy region (19,219 bp) and a large single copyregion (87,599 bp). The cp genome encodes 109 unique genes, including 75 protein-coding genes, 30 transfer RNA genes and 4 ribosomal RNA genes. The topology of the phylogenetic tree showed that C. pinnatifida has a close relationship with species Eriobotrya, Sorbus, Pyrus, Mulus, and Chaenomeles.

Altering the inhibitory kinetics and molecular conformation of maltase by Tangzhiqing (TZQ), a natural α-glucosidase inhibitor

Background

Tangzhiqing (TZQ), as a potential α-glycosidase inhibitor, possesses postprandial hypoglycaemic effects on maltose in humans. The aim of this study was to investigate the mechanisms by which TZQ attenuates postprandial glucose by interrupting the activity of maltase, including inhibitory kinetics and circular dichroism studies.

Methods

In this study, we determined the inhibitory effect of TZQ on maltase by kinetic analysis to determine the IC₅₀ value and enzyme velocity studies and line weaver-burk plot generation to determine inhibition type. Acarbose was chosen as a standard control drug. After the interaction with TZQ and maltase, secondary structure analysis was conducted with a circular dichroism method.

Results

TZQ showed notable inhibition activity on maltase in a reversible and competitive manner with an IC₅₀ value of 1.67 ± 0.09 μg/ml, which was weaker than that of acarbose (IC₅₀ = 0.29 ± 0.01 μg/ml). The circular dichroism spectrum demonstrated that the binding of TZQ to maltase changed the conformation of maltase and varied with the concentration of TZQ in terms of the disappearance of β-sheets and an increase in the α-helix content of the enzyme, similar to acarbose.

Conclusions

This work provides useful information for the inhibitory effect of TZQ on maltase. TZQ has the potential to be an α-glycosidase inhibitor for the prevention and treatment of prediabetes or mild diabetes mellitus.

A Review of Medicinal Plants in Cardiovascular Disorders: Benefits and Risks

Many cultivated and wild plants are used for the management of various diseases, specifically renal and hepatic diseases and those of the immune and cardiovascular systems. In China, medicinal plants from ancient to modern history have been used in patients with angina pectoris, congestive heart failure (CHF), systolic hypertension, arrhythmia, and venous insufficiency for centuries. The latest increase in the fame of natural products and alternative medicine has revived interest in conventional remedies that have been consumed in the management of CVD. The cardio-protective properties of the various herbs are possibly due to their anti-oxidative, antihypercholesterolemic, anti-ischemic activities, and inhibition of platelet aggregation that reduce the risk of CVD. Ethno-pharmacological and biological properties of these plants are explored, based upon published scientific literature. Although a majority of medicinal plants having a biological mechanism that linked with CVD management, to date, published literature pertaining to their promising scientific properties are still poorly understood. Compared with synthetic medicines, alternative medicines do not need scientific studies before their formal approval from the government sector and due to this purpose; their safety, as well as efficacy, still remain elusive. Taken together, we addressed all accessible evidence on alternative medicines commonly consumed in CVD management. Our comprehensive analysis of the scientific literature indicated that many TCMs are available and valuable herbal medication would be the best alternative for the management of CVD as a complementary therapy. Furthermore, practitioners should always discuss possible benefits-risks of alternative medicines with patients so that they are aware of the consumption of alternative medications.

Chemical composition, antibacterial activity and action mechanism of different extracts from hawthorn (Crataegus pinnatifida Bge.)

Present study was designed to compared the total flavonoids and polyphenols contents and antibacterial activity of hawthorn extracts with different polarities as well as the underlying antibacterial mechanisms. The results showed that among all hawthorn extracts, methanol and ethanol extracts (ME and EE) exhibited high levels of total flavonoids and polyphenols contents, followed by acetone, ethyl acetate, trichloromethane and petroleum ether extracts. ME exhibited the strongest antibacterial activity against tested bacteria, especially Staphylococcus aureus with a 1.25 μg/mL of the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum bactericide concentration (MBC). Further analysis revealed that the main phenolic compounds from ME were epicatechin (281.6 mg/100 g DW), procyanidin B2 (243.5 mg/100 g DW), chlorogenic acid (84.2 mg/100 g DW) and quercetin (78.4 mg/100 g DW). The action mechanism of ME against S. aureus could be ascribed to ME damaging cell wall and cell membrane integrity, inhibiting intracellular enzyme activity, increasing reactive oxygen species (ROS), also changing expression of associated genes and then inducing apoptosis of S. aureus. In addition, the antimicrobial activity of ME against S. aureus has also been demonstrated to be efficient in the food matrix (whole milk).

Hypolipidemic and antioxidant activities of Trichosanthes kirilowii maxim seed oil and flavonoids in mice fed with a high-fat diet

Trichosanlhes kirilowii Maxim seed oil (TSO) is rich in conjugated linolenic acids, and the flavonoids (FLA) combined with n-3 fatty acids can effectively change the plasma antioxidant capacity. Hyperlipidemia and oxidative stress are one of the most important risk factors for cardiovascular disease. This study aims to evaluate the effect of the TSO, FLA, and TSO combined with FLA (TSOFLA) intake on hyperlipemia mice. TSO and TSOFLA administration resulted in a significant decline in serum levels of total cholesterol, triglycerides, and low density lipoprotein-cholesterol. TSOFLA improved the hepatic and serum antioxidant status as assessed by superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase activities, and reduced the levels of lipid peroxidation. Hematoxylin-eosin staining of liver and aorta tissue has shown a marked reduction of the hyperlipidemia-induced lesions by gavage TSOFLA. Compared with TSO and FLA, TSOFLA has more significant hypolipidemic and antioxidant activities, which effects may be correlated to the synergy between TSO and FLA. PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS: Dyslipidemia is a common metabolic disorder, which is characterized by triglyceride levels increased, total cholesterol, and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol. Lipid-lowering treatment can reduce the expansion of coronary atherosclerosis, and particular the dietary lipids have important roles in controlling the concentrations of these risk factors. This is the first study evaluating the hypolipidemic and antioxidant activities effects of Trichosanlhes kirilowii Maxim seed oil (TSO), flavonoids (FLA), and TSO combined with FLA (TSOFLA) intake on hyperlipemia mice caused by a high-fat diet. The pharmacological effects of dietary TSOFLA are correlated to its high content of unsaturated fatty acids and flavonoids. This information can be of interest to the development of food supplements in the field of diseases associated with high-fat intakes such as cardiovascular diseases and adiposis.

Alleviating the Hydrolysis of Carbohydrates, Tangzhiqing (TZQ) Decreased the Postprandial Glycemia in Healthy Volunteers: An Eight-Period Crossover Study

Tangzhiqing (TZQ), a Chinese herbal medicine, has been widely used to treat diabetes mellitus in China. TZQ works as a potential α-glucosidase inhibitor to reduce the absorption of glucose from dietary carbohydrates. The main aim of this study was to investigate the postprandial glucose-lowering effect of TZQ on the common carbohydrates in healthy humans. Meanwhile, the possible types of the inhibited α-glucosidase enzymes were predicted in this study. Glucose, sucrose, maltose, maltodextrin, and starch were chosen as investigated carbohydrates. The baseline incremental area under the curve (IAUC) and glycemic index (GI) values of the investigated carbohydrates were evaluated. Then, thirty-six subjects were randomly assigned to three groups to assess postprandial hypoglycemic effects of 3-, 6-, and 9-tablet TZQ. The subjects in each group were randomized to eight subgroups. An eight-period, eight-sequence, crossover design was performed to investigate the postprandial glucose-lowering effect of TZQ after drinking each carbohydrate. A significant decrease was observed on the postprandial glucose IAUCs (279.41 ± 111.31 vs. 203.86 ± 61.08) and GIs (124.91 ± 48.54 vs. 91.69 ± 27.47) of maltose after oral administration of 6-tablet TZQ, as well as IAUCs (145.05 ± 55.01 vs. 110.23 ± 57.03) and GIs (84.87 ± 33.40 vs. 65.50 ± 33.89) of sucrose after administration of 3-tablet TZQ. The glucose IAUCs (109.15 ± 55.92 vs. 57.68 ± 46.09) and GIs (49.09 ± 25.15 vs. 25.94 ± 20.73) of starch statistically reduced following the administration of 6-tablet TZQ. The lowering postprandial blood glucose effect of TZQ did not increase proportionally with increasing doses in humans. There were no significant changes in the glucose-lowering effect of glucose and maltodextrin after the administration of 3-, 6-, or 9-tablet TZQ, respectively. TZQ is a potential treatment for postprandial hyperglycemia, which can probably make α-glucosidases inhibit maltase, sucrase, and α-amylase in the digestive organs.

Herbal Medications in Cardiovascular Medicine

Herbal medications are commonly used for clinical purposes, including the treatment of cardiovascular conditions. Compared with conventional medications, herbal medications do not require clinical studies before their marketing or formal approval from regulatory agencies, and for this reason their efficacy and safety are rarely proven. In this review, we summarize available evidence on herbal medications mostly used in cardiovascular medicine. We show that the use of these medications for the treatment of cardiovascular diseases is often not supported by scientific evidence. Despite most of these herbs showing an effect on biological mechanisms related to the cardiovascular system, data on their clinical effects are lacking. Potential relevant side effects, including increased risk of drug interactions, are described, and the possibility of contamination or substitution with other medications represents a concern. Physicians should always assess the use of herbal medications with patients and discuss the possible benefits and side effects with them.

High-Density Genetic Linkage Map Construction and Quantitative Trait Locus Mapping for Hawthorn (Crataegus pinnatifida Bunge)

Genetic linkage maps are an important tool in genetic and genomic research. In this study, two hawthorn cultivars, Qiujinxing and Damianqiu, and 107 progenies from a cross between them were used for constructing a high-density genetic linkage map using the 2b-restriction site-associated DNA (2b-RAD) sequencing method, as well as for mapping quantitative trait loci (QTL) for flavonoid content. In total, 206,411,693 single-end reads were obtained, with an average sequencing depth of 57× in the parents and 23× in the progeny. After quality trimming, 117,896 high-quality 2b-RAD tags were retained, of which 42,279 were polymorphic; of these, 12,951 markers were used for constructing the genetic linkage map. The map contained 17 linkage groups and 3,894 markers, with a total map length of 1,551.97 cM and an average marker interval of 0.40 cM. QTL mapping identified 21 QTLs associated with flavonoid content in 10 linkage groups, which explained 16.30-59.00% of the variance. This is the first high-density linkage map for hawthorn, which will serve as a basis for fine-scale QTL mapping and marker-assisted selection of important traits in hawthorn germplasm and will facilitate chromosome assignment for hawthorn whole-genome assemblies in the future.

Hawthorn (Crataegus pinnatifida Bunge) leave flavonoids attenuate atherosclerosis development in apoE knock-out mice

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Hawthorn (Crataegus pinnatifida Bunge) leave have been used to treat cardiovascular diseases in China and Europe. Hawthorn leave flavonoids (HLF) are the main part of extraction. Whether hawthorn leave flavonoids could attenuate the development of atherosclerosis and the possible mechanism remain unknown.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

High-fat diet (HFD) mixed with HLF at concentrations of 5mg/kg and 20mg/kg were administered to apolipoprotein E (apoE) knock out mice. 16 weeks later, mouse serum was collected to determine the lipid profile while the mouse aorta dissected was prepared to measure the lesion area. Hepatic mRNA of genes involved in lipid metabolism were determined. Peritoneal macrophages were collected to study the impact of HLF on cholesterol efflux, formation of foam cell and the expression of ATP binding cassette transporter A1 (ABCA1). Besides, in vivo reverse cholesterol transport (RCT) was conducted.

RESULTS

HLF attenuated the development of atherosclerosis that the mean atherosclerotic lesion area in en face aortas was reduced by 23.1% (P<0.05). In mice fed with 20mg/kg HLF, Total cholesterol (TC) level was decreased by 18.6% and very low density lipoprotein cholesterol plus low density lipoprotein cholesterol (VLDLc+LDLc) level were decreased by 23.1% whereas high density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDLc) and triglyceride (TG) levels were similar compared to that of the control group. Peroxisome proliferator activated receptor alpha (PPARα) mRNA was increased by 31.2% (P<0.05) and 60.9% (P<0.05) in mice fed with 5mg/kg and 20mg/kg HLF respectively. Sterol regulatory element binding protein-1c (SREBP-1c) was decreased by 59.3% in the group of 20mg/kg. Carnitine palmitoyl transferase 1 (CPT-1) mRNA level of 20mg/kg group was induced 66.7% (P<0.05). Superoxide dismutase 1 and 2 (SOD1 and SOD2) mRNA were induced 25.4% (P<0.05) and 71.4% (P<0.05) while induced by 36.3% (P<0.05) and 73.2% (P<0.05) in group of 20mg/kg. Glutathione peroxidase 3 (Gpx3) mRNA in the group of 20mg/kg was induced by 96.7% (P<0.05). Hepatic hydroxymethylglutaryl CoA reductase (HMG-CoAR) expression was as same level as the control group while LDL receptor (LDLR) mRNA and protein were induced by 84.2% (P<0.05) and 98.8% (P<0.05) in group of 20mg/kg. HLF inhibit the formation of foam cell by 27.9% (P<0.05) in the dosage of 25μg/ml, and 33.3% (P<0.05) in the dosage of 50μg/ml. HLF increased the reverse cholesterol transport (RCT) in vivo.

DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION

Hawthorn leave flavonoids can slow down the development of atherosclerosis in apoE knockout mice via induced expression of genes involved in antioxidant activities, inhibition of the foam cell formation and promotion of RCT in vivo, which implies the potential use in the prevention of atherosclerosis.

Herbal Formula HT048 Attenuates Diet-Induced Obesity by Improving Hepatic Lipid Metabolism and Insulin Resistance in Obese Rats

It is well established that obesity causes a variety of chronic diseases such as cardiovascular diseases and diabetes. Despite the diligent scientific efforts to find effective ways to lower the level of obesity, the size of obese population grows continuously around the world. Here we present the results that show feeding diet containing HT048, a mixture of the extracts of Crataegus pinnatifida leaves and Citrus unshiu peel, two of the well-known traditional herbal medicines in Eastern Asia, decreases obesity in rats. We fed rats with five different diets for 10 weeks: chow diet (STD), high-fat diet (HFD), high-fat diet with 0.04% orlistat, a drug to treat obesity (HFD + Orlistat), high-fat diet with 0.2% HT048 (w/w; HFD + 0.2% HT048), and high-fat diet with 0.6% HT048 (w/w; HFD + 0.6% HT048). It was found that both body and total white adipose tissue weight of HT048 groups significantly decreased compared to those of the HFD group. Moreover, HT048 decreased serum insulin levels in HFD-fed obese rats. At the molecular level, HT048 supplementation downregulated genes involved in lipogenesis, gluconeogenesis, and adipogenesis, while the expression level of β-oxidation genes was increased. Supplementation-drug interactions are not likely as HFD and HT048-containing diet did not significantly induce genes encoding CYPs. Collectively, this study suggests that HT048 taken as dietary supplement helps to decrease obesity and insulin resistance in HFD-fed obese rats.

Effects of Cydonia oblonga Miller leaf and fruit flavonoids on blood lipids and anti-oxydant potential in hyperlipidemia rats

OBJECTIVE

To study the effects of Cydonia oblonga Miller (COM) total flavonoids (TF) from leaves and fruit on the blood lipid and antioxidant potentials using hyperlipidaemic rat models.

METHODS

Hyperlipidaemic rat models were created with high-lipid emulsion. Rats were distributed into normal controls, hyperlipidaemic models, and daily high (160mg/kg), medium (80mg/kg) and low (40mg/kg) TF from leaves and fruit and simvastatin (5mg/kg) groups. After four weeks, serum total cholesterol (TC), triglyceride (TG), high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), as well as hepatic superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) and malondialdehyde (MDA) were measured.

RESULTS

Compared with the hyperlipidaemic model group, TF significantly reduced serum TC, TG, LDL-C (P<0.01), ALT and AST (P<0.01 or P<0.05) and increased HDL-C (P<0.05 or P<0.01). TF also reduced MDA (P<0.01 or P<0.01).

CONCLUSION

COM total flavonoids can effectively regulate the metabolism of lipids, and remove oxygen free radicals. This confirms its potential value in the prevention and treatment of hyperlipidaemia.

Evaluation of a crataegus-based multiherb formula for dyslipidemia: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial

Background. We for the first time examined the effects of a multiherb formula containing Crataegus pinnatifida (1 g daily), Alisma orientalis, Stigma maydis, Ganoderma lucidum, Polygonum multiflorum, and Morus alba on plasma lipid and glucose levels in Chinese patients with dyslipidemia. Methods. In this randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study, 42 patients were randomized at a ratio of 1 : 1 to receive the herbal formula or placebo for 12 weeks and 40 patients completed the study. Lipid profiles, glucose, glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c), and laboratory safety parameters were performed before and after treatment. Results. The difference in the changes in low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) levels between placebo and active treatment (-9%) was significantly (P < 0.05) better with active treatment. HbA1c levels significantly decreased by -3.9% in the active treatment group, but the change was not significantly different from that with placebo (-1.1%) (P = 0.098). There were no apparent adverse effects or changes in laboratory safety parameters with either treatment. Conclusions. The multiherb formula had mild beneficial effects on plasma LDL-C after 12-weeks treatment in subjects with dyslipidemia without any noticeable adverse effects.

Effect of crataegus usage in cardiovascular disease prevention: an evidence-based approach

Hawthorn (Crataegus oxyacantha) is a widely used Chinese herb for treatment of gastrointestinal ailments and heart problems and consumed as food. In North America, the role of treatment for heart problems dates back to 1800. Currently, evidence is accumulating from various in vivo and in vitro studies that hawthorn extracts exert a wide range of cardiovascular pharmacological properties, including antioxidant activity, positive inotropic effect, anti-inflammatory effect, anticardiac remodeling effect, antiplatelet aggregation effect, vasodilating effect, endothelial protective effect, reduction of smooth muscle cell migration and proliferation, protective effect against ischemia/reperfusion injury, antiarrhythmic effect, lipid-lowering effect and decrease of arterial blood pressure effect. On the other hand, reviews of placebo-controlled trials have reported both subjective and objective improvement in patients with mild forms of heart failure (NYHA I-III), hypertension, and hyperlipidemia. This paper discussed the underlying pharmacology mechanisms in potential cardioprotective effects and elucidated the clinical applications of Crataegus and its various extracts.

An extract of Crataegus pinnatifida fruit attenuates airway inflammation by modulation of matrix metalloproteinase-9 in ovalbumin induced asthma

BACKGROUND

Crataegus pinnatifida (Chinese hawthorn) has long been used as a herbal medicine in Asia and Europe. It has been used for the treatment of various cardiovascular diseases such as myocardial weakness, tachycardia, hypertension and arteriosclerosis. In this study, we investigated the anti-inflammatory effects of Crataegus pinnatifida ethanolic extracts (CPEE) on Th2-type cytokines, eosinophil infiltration, expression of matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-9, and other factors, using an ovalbumin (OVA)-induced murine asthma model.

METHODS/PRINCIPAL FINDING

Airways of OVA-sensitized mice exposed to OVA challenge developed eosinophilia, mucus hypersecretion and increased cytokine levels. CPEE was applied 1 h prior to OVA challenge. Mice were administered CPEE orally at doses of 100 and 200 mg/kg once daily on days 18-23. Bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) was collected 48 h after the final OVA challenge. Levels of interleukin (IL)-4 and IL-5 in BALF were measured using enzyme-linked immunosorbent (ELISA) assays. Lung tissue sections 4 µm in thickness were stained with Mayer's hematoxylin and eosin for assessment of cell infiltration and mucus production with PAS staining, in conjunction with ELISA, and Western blot analyses for the expression of MMP-9, intercellular adhesion molecule (ICAM)-1 and vascular cell adhesion molecule (VCAM)-1 protein expression. CPEE significantly decreased the Th2 cytokines including IL-4 and IL-5 levels, reduced the number of inflammatory cells in BALF and airway hyperresponsiveness, suppressed the infiltration of eosinophil-rich inflammatory cells and mucus hypersecretion and reduced the expression of ICAM-1, VCAM-1 and MMP-9 and the activity of MMP-9 in lung tissue of OVA-challenged mice.

CONCLUSIONS

These results showed that CPEE can protect against allergic airway inflammation and can act as an MMP-9 modulator to induce a reduction in ICAM-1 and VCAM-1 expression. In conclusion, we strongly suggest the feasibility of CPEE as a therapeutic drug for allergic asthma.