1
|
Akter R, Morshed MN, Awais M, Kong BM, Oh SW, Oh JH, Alrefaei AF, Yang DC, Yang DU, Ali S. Exploring the synergistic potential of pomegranate fermented juice compounds against oxidative stress-induced neurotoxicity through computational docking and experimental analysis in human neuroblastoma cells. Heliyon 2024; 10:e34993. [PMID: 39157308 PMCID: PMC11327604 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e34993] [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: 01/31/2024] [Revised: 07/18/2024] [Accepted: 07/19/2024] [Indexed: 08/20/2024] Open
Abstract
This study explored the neuroprotective potential of fermented pomegranate (PG-F) against hydrogen peroxide (H2O2)-induced neurotoxicity in human neuroblastoma SH-SY5Y cells and elucidated the underlying molecular mechanisms. The fermentation process, involving probiotics, transforms the hydrolyzable tannins in pomegranate juice into ellagic acid (EA) and gallic acid (GA), which are believed to contribute to its health benefits. Molecular docking simulations confirmed the stable interactions between EA, GA, and proteins associated with the antioxidant and anti-apoptotic pathways. PG-F significantly enhanced the viability of H2O2-treated cells, as evidenced by 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assays, cell morphology observations, and Hoechst 33342 staining. PG-F mitigated the H2O2-induced intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels, restored mitochondrial membrane potential, and upregulated antioxidant gene expression. The PG-F treatment also attenuated the H2O2-induced imbalance in the Bax/Bcl-2 ratio and reduced the cleaved caspase-3, caspase-7, and caspase-9 levels, suppressing the apoptotic pathways. Further insights showed that PG-F inhibited the phosphorylation of mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs) and facilitated the nuclear translocation of nuclear factor-erythroid 2-related factor (Nrf2), highlighting its role in modulating the key signaling pathways. A combined treatment with equivalent concentrations of EA and GA, as found in PG-F, induced remarkable cellular protection. Drug combination analysis using the Chou-Talalay method revealed a synergistic effect between EA and GA, emphasizing their combined efficacy. In conclusion, PG-F has significant neuroprotective effects against H2O2-induced neurotoxicity by modulating the antioxidant and anti-apoptotic pathways. The synergistic action of EA and GA suggests the therapeutic potential of PG-F in alleviating oxidative stress-associated neurodegenerative diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Reshmi Akter
- Graduate School of Biotechnology, College of Life Sciences, Kyung Hee University, Yongin, Gyeonggido, Republic of Korea
| | - Md Niaj Morshed
- Graduate School of Biotechnology, College of Life Sciences, Kyung Hee University, Yongin, Gyeonggido, Republic of Korea
| | - Muhammad Awais
- Graduate School of Biotechnology, College of Life Sciences, Kyung Hee University, Yongin, Gyeonggido, Republic of Korea
| | - Byoung Man Kong
- Department of Oriental Medicine and Biotechnology, College of Life Sciences Kyung Hee University, Yongin, Gyeonggido, Republic of Korea
| | - Se-Woung Oh
- SMART FRUIT CO., LTD., Guri, Gyeonggi-do, Republic of Korea
| | - Ji-Hyung Oh
- Fruitycompany Co., Ltd., Guri, Gyeonggi-do, Republic of Korea
| | - Abdulwahed F Alrefaei
- Department of Zoology, College of Science, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Deok Chun Yang
- Graduate School of Biotechnology, College of Life Sciences, Kyung Hee University, Yongin, Gyeonggido, Republic of Korea
- AIBIOME, 6, Jeonmin-ro 30beon-gil, Yuseong-gu, Daejeon, 34214, Republic of Korea
| | - Dong Uk Yang
- AIBIOME, 6, Jeonmin-ro 30beon-gil, Yuseong-gu, Daejeon, 34214, Republic of Korea
| | - Sajid Ali
- Department of Horticulture and Life Science, Yeungnam University, Republic of Korea
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Pretorius L, Smith C. Green rooibos (Aspalathus linearis) promotes gut health: insight into mechanisms. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2024; 319:117379. [PMID: 37923252 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2023.117379] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2023] [Revised: 10/20/2023] [Accepted: 10/31/2023] [Indexed: 11/07/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Paralleling the increasing incidence of gastrointestinal disorders world-wide, therapeutic investigations of nutraceuticals to promote gastrointestinal health are gaining popularity. Although anecdotally well-known for its gut health promoting potential, sparse scientific evidence supports this action of Aspalathus linearis (Burm.f.) R. Dahlgren - or rooibos - at the gastrointestinal epithelial level. AIM OF THE STUDY Traditionally, rooibos is considered to exert antispasmodic, anti-inflammatory, and anti-nociceptive effects in the gut. However, the direct effect on intestinal epithelium is unknown. Thus, to assess the validity of anecdotal claims, two larval zebrafish models were utilized to evaluate effects of rooibos on intestinal health. MATERIALS AND METHODS Firstly, a larval zebrafish model of gastrointestinal inflammation (2-day TNBS-exposure) was employed. Co-administration of 6α-methylprednisolone served as an internal treatment control. Assessments included live imaging techniques and post-mortem immunofluorescent staining of epithelial tight junction proteins. In addition, whole body H2O2 and prostaglandin E2 assays were performed. Secondly, a gastrointestinal motility assay was performed, with known pro- and anti-kinetic mediators to assess the effect of rooibos to alter functional outcome in vivo. RESULTS Aqueous and ethanol extracts of green rooibos rescued TNBS-induced reductions in neutral red stained length of larval mid-intestines. Subsequent experiments confirmed the rescue capacity of the aqueous green rooibos extract regarding whole body oxidative and inflammatory status. Concerning tight junction proteins, only the aqueous green rooibos extract - and not prednisolone - normalized both zona occludens-1 and occludin expression levels when compared the TNBS group. In terms of gastrointestinal motility, the aqueous green rooibos extract significantly reduced the extent of gut motility dysregulation achieved by kinetic modulators. CONCLUSIONS Data indicates the potential of a 2 mg/ml aqueous extract of green rooibos to improve gastrointestinal integrity and functionality in vivo, suggesting beneficial effects of rooibos may already occur at the level of the gut. This provides some evidence to support indigenous knowledge.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lesha Pretorius
- Experimental Medicine, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, 7500, South Africa.
| | - Carine Smith
- Experimental Medicine, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, 7500, South Africa.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Gericke J, Harvey BH, Pretorius L, Ollewagen T, Benecke RM, Smith C. Sceletium tortuosum-derived mesembrine significantly contributes to the anxiolytic effect of Zembrin®, but its anti-depressant effect may require synergy of multiple plant constituents. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2024; 319:117113. [PMID: 37660956 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2023.117113] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2023] [Revised: 08/07/2023] [Accepted: 08/30/2023] [Indexed: 09/05/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY RELEVANCE Sceletium tortuosum (L.) N.E.Br. (ST) is an alkaloid-rich succulent plant with various mechanisms of action that infer psychotropic effects. These actions correlate with clinical evidence suggesting efficacy in the treatment of depression and anxiety, in line with its use by indigenous populations. Its low side effect profile suggests potential of ST to improve the overall wellbeing and compliance of millions of patients that experience severe side effects and/or do not respond to current prescription medication. However, to elucidate specific physiological effects of ST extracts, it is necessary to first understand which of its constituents are the major contributors to beneficial effects demonstrated for ST in this context. AIM OF THE STUDY To determine an anxiolytic- and antidepressant-like effective concentration of a ST extract by means of a dose response in zebrafish (ZF) larvae, and to assess relative contributions of equivalent concentrations of isolated alkaloids contained in the effective concentration(s). MATERIALS AND METHODS A dose response study employing a light-dark transition test (LDTT) was done in ZF larvae (<5 days post fertilization) to track locomotor activity in terms of anxiety-like (hyperlocomotion) and depression-like (hypolocomotion) behaviour. Larvae were treated for 1 h directly before the LDTT with escalating concentrations of a ST extract commercially known as Zembrin® (Zem) ranging from 0.25 to 500 μg/mL and compared to an untreated control group (n = 12 per treatment concentration). LDTT was repeated after 24 h to evaluate long-term exposure toxicity. The concentration that best attenuated hyperlocomotion during the dark phase following light-dark transition was identified as the anxiolytic-like concentration. This concentration, plus one higher and one lower concentration, were used for subsequent tests. The percentage content of each alkaloid (mesembrine, mesembrenone, mesembrenol, and mesembranol) in these concentrations were calculated and applied to additional larvae to identify the most effective anxiolytic-like alkaloid in the LDTT. To identify antidepressant-like therapeutic concentration and equivalent alkaloid concentration, the same treatment concentrations were tested in larvae (n = 12 per treatment concentration) pre-exposed to reserpine for 24 h. Depending on normality of data distribution, Brown-Forsythe and Welch, or Kruskal-Wallis ANOVA were used, with Dunnett or Dunn's multiple comparisons tests. RESULTS Only the extreme concentration of Zem (500 μg/mL) elicited toxicity after treatment for 24 h. Zem 12.5 μg/mL was the most effective anxiolytic-like concentration as it significantly decreased locomotor activity (P = 0.05) in the LDTT. Low (5 μg/mL), optimal (12.5 μg/mL) and high (25 μg/mL) Zem concentrations, as well as treatment solutions of single alkaloids (mesembrine, mesembrenone, mesembranol and mesembrenol), prepared to contain equivalent concentrations of each major alkaloid contained within these three concentrations of Zem, were tested further. Only mesembrine concentrations equal to that contained within the optimal and high dose of Zem (12.5 and 25 μg/mL) showed significant anxiolytic-like effects (P < 0.05). Only the highest Zem concentration (25 μg/mL) reversed the effects of reserpine - indicating antidepressant-like properties (P < 0.05) - while isolated alkaloids failed to induce such effects when administered in isolation. CONCLUSIONS Current data provide evidence of both anxiolytic- and antidepressant-like effect of whole extract of Zem, with relatively higher concentrations required to achieve antidepressant-like effect. Of all alkaloids assessed, only mesembrine contributed significantly to the anxiolytic-like effects of Zem. No alkaloid alone could be pinpointed as a contributor to the antidepressant-like activity observed for higher concentration Zem. This may be due to synergistic effects of the alkaloids or may be due to other components not tested here. Current data warrants further investigation into mechanisms of action, as well as potential synergy, of ST alkaloids in suitable mammalian in vivo models.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Johané Gericke
- Centre of Excellence for Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, North-West University, Potchefstroom, South Africa.
| | - Brian H Harvey
- Centre of Excellence for Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, North-West University, Potchefstroom, South Africa; South African Medical Research Council Unit on Risk and Resilience in Mental Disorders, Department of Psychiatry and Neuroscience Institute, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa; The Institute for Mental and Physical Health and Clinical Translation, School of Medicine, Deakin University, Geelong, Australia.
| | - Lesha Pretorius
- Experimental Medicine Research Group, Dept of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Stellenbosch, South Africa.
| | - Tracey Ollewagen
- Experimental Medicine Research Group, Dept of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Stellenbosch, South Africa.
| | - Rohan M Benecke
- Division Clinical Pharmacology, Dept of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Stellenbosch, South Africa.
| | - Carine Smith
- Experimental Medicine Research Group, Dept of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Stellenbosch, South Africa.
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Pretorius L, Smith C. Translation of preclinical ethnomedicine data in LMICs: the example of rooibos. Front Pharmacol 2023; 14:1328828. [PMID: 38174224 PMCID: PMC10763253 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2023.1328828] [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: 10/27/2023] [Accepted: 12/07/2023] [Indexed: 01/05/2024] Open
Abstract
All disease, but especially non-communicable diseases, are related to dysfunction of one or more regulatory systems. In developing countries, long-term management of patients with chronic diseases has many challenges and is generally not financially viable, but Africa in particular, which is rich in diverse ethnomedicines presents a more feasible long-term therapeutic approach in this niche. However, despite comprehensive preclinical investigations on numerous plant-derived candidate medicines, only a small portion of these reach the patient as recognised medicines. In this review, we use the example of rooibos (Aspalathus linearis (Burm.f.) R. Dahlgren)-which is globally consumed as aromatic, caffeine-free tea-to illustrate the hurdles that need to be overcome in the low-to middle-income countries, before progression of ethnomedicines to official treatment regimens can be achieved. In terms of methodology, regulatory system focused rooibos papers indexed on PubMed for the past three decades (n = 112) were accessed. Papers reporting duplication of previous results were excluded, as well as review papers. Topics covered includes the high standard of ethnomedicine drug discovery and efficacy testing research performed in Africa (and South Africa in particular in the case of rooibos), the potential bias in terms of preclinical research focus, ethnomedicine ownership and the requirement for independent clinical trial coordination and/or management.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Carine Smith
- Experimental Medicine, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Wu T, Zhu W, Chen L, Jiang T, Dong Y, Wang L, Tong X, Zhou H, Yu X, Peng Y, Wang L, Xiao Y, Zhong T. A review of natural plant extracts in beverages: Extraction process, nutritional function, and safety evaluation. Food Res Int 2023; 172:113185. [PMID: 37689936 DOI: 10.1016/j.foodres.2023.113185] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2023] [Revised: 06/19/2023] [Accepted: 06/27/2023] [Indexed: 09/11/2023]
Abstract
The demand for foods and beverages with therapeutic and functional features has increased as a result of rising consumer awareness of health and wellness. In natural, plants are abundant, widespread, and inexpensive, in addition to being rich in bioactive components that are beneficial to health. The bioactive substances contained in plants include polyphenols, polysaccharides, flavonoids, aromatics, aliphatics, terpenoids, etc., which have rich active functions and application potential for plant-based beverages. In this review, various existing extraction processes and their advantages and disadvantages are introduced. The antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, intestinal flora regulation, metabolism regulation, and nerve protection effects of plant beverages are described. The biotoxicity and sensory properties of plant-based beverages are also summarized. With the diversification of the food industry and commerce, plant-based beverages may become a promising new category of health functional foods in our daily lives.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tong Wu
- Faculty of Chinese Medicine, Macau University of Science and Technology, Avenida Wai Long, Taipa, Macao
| | - Wanying Zhu
- Faculty of Chinese Medicine, Macau University of Science and Technology, Avenida Wai Long, Taipa, Macao
| | - Linyan Chen
- Faculty of Medicine, Macau University of Science and Technology, Avenida Wai Long, Taipa, Macao
| | - Tao Jiang
- Faculty of Medicine, Macau University of Science and Technology, Avenida Wai Long, Taipa, Macao
| | - Yuhe Dong
- Faculty of Medicine, Macau University of Science and Technology, Avenida Wai Long, Taipa, Macao
| | - Letao Wang
- Faculty of Medicine, Macau University of Science and Technology, Avenida Wai Long, Taipa, Macao
| | - Xinyang Tong
- Faculty of Medicine, Macau University of Science and Technology, Avenida Wai Long, Taipa, Macao
| | - Hui Zhou
- Key Laboratory of Biotechnology and Bioresources Utilization, Ministry of Education, Institute of Plant Resources, Dalian Minzu University, Dalian, China
| | - Xi Yu
- Faculty of Medicine, Macau University of Science and Technology, Avenida Wai Long, Taipa, Macao
| | - Ye Peng
- Faculty of Medicine, Macau University of Science and Technology, Avenida Wai Long, Taipa, Macao
| | - Ling Wang
- Faculty of Medicine, Macau University of Science and Technology, Avenida Wai Long, Taipa, Macao
| | - Ying Xiao
- Faculty of Medicine, Macau University of Science and Technology, Avenida Wai Long, Taipa, Macao
| | - Tian Zhong
- Faculty of Medicine, Macau University of Science and Technology, Avenida Wai Long, Taipa, Macao.
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Smit C, De Wet S, Barron T, Loos B. Rooibos tea-in the cross fire of ROS, mitochondrial dysfunction and loss of proteostasis-positioned for healthy aging. Biogerontology 2023; 24:149-162. [PMID: 36781516 DOI: 10.1007/s10522-022-10012-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2022] [Accepted: 12/16/2022] [Indexed: 02/15/2023]
Abstract
Impaired mitochondrial function and loss of cellular proteostasis control are key hallmarks of aging and are implicated in the development of neurodegenerative diseases. A common denominator is the cell's inability to handle reactive oxygen species (ROS), leading to major downstream oxidative damage that exacerbates neuronal dysfunction. Although we have progressed in understanding the molecular defects associated with neuronal aging, many unanswered questions remain. How much ROS is required to serve cellular function before it becomes detrimental and how does the cell's oxidative status impact mitochondrial function and protein degradation through autophagy? How does ROS regulate autophagy? Aspalathus linearis, also commonly known as rooibos, is an endemic South African plant that is gaining globally acclaim for its antioxidant properties and its role as functional medicinal beverage. In this article we dissect the role of rooibos in the context of the cell's ROS handling capacity, mitochondrial function and autophagy activity. By addressing the dynamic relationship between these critical interconnected systems, and by evaluating the functional properties of rooibos, we unravel its position for preserving cell viability and promoting healthy aging.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Catherine Smit
- Department of Physiological Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Merriman Avenue, Mike de Vries Building, Stellenbosch, 7600, South Africa
| | - Sholto De Wet
- Department of Physiological Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Merriman Avenue, Mike de Vries Building, Stellenbosch, 7600, South Africa
| | - Tamryn Barron
- Department of Physiological Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Merriman Avenue, Mike de Vries Building, Stellenbosch, 7600, South Africa
| | - Ben Loos
- Department of Physiological Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Merriman Avenue, Mike de Vries Building, Stellenbosch, 7600, South Africa.
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Meng J, Liu HC, Guo YY, Wang F, Pi DJ, Yu QZ. Discovery of a triphenylamine-benzofuran derivative as fluorescent probe for hydrogen polysulfide in tea samples. SPECTROCHIMICA ACTA. PART A, MOLECULAR AND BIOMOLECULAR SPECTROSCOPY 2023; 288:122191. [PMID: 36463623 DOI: 10.1016/j.saa.2022.122191] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2022] [Revised: 11/20/2022] [Accepted: 11/25/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
In this work, a novel triphenylamine-benzofuran derived fluorescent probe, TBF-SS, was developed for detecting hydrogen polysulfide in tea samples and intracellular imaging. TBF-SS showed the practical advantages including high sensitivity (LOD = 0.01 μM), high selectivity, rapid response (within 15 min), and steadiness in various environmental conditions. The detecting system was steady within pH range of 6.0-11.0 and temperature range of 20-55 °C. The probe TBF-SS could guarantee the stable detection of H2Sn for 7 d in storage of either solid or solution. In particular, in the application of various tea samples with different brewing times and testing temperatures, the recovery percentages varied in the range of 95.22 % to 105.0 %. Therefore accurate monitoring of H2Sn could be achieved by using the probe TBF-SS. In addition, TBF-SS could monitor the exogenous level, the β-lapachone-induced generation and the tea-sample-treated introduction of H2Sn in living MCF-7 cells. This work might inspire the improvement of the serviceability of fluorescent implements.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Juan Meng
- College of Preparatory Education, Guangxi Minzu University, Nanning 530006, PR China
| | - Hong-Cun Liu
- Guangxi Key Laboratory for Polysaccharide Materials and Modifications, School of Marine Sciences and Biotechnology, Guangxi Minzu University, Nanning 530006, PR China.
| | - Yang-Yang Guo
- Chemical and Biological Engineering, Guangxi Normal University for Nationalities, Chongzuo 532200, PR China
| | - Fang Wang
- Guangxi Key Laboratory for Polysaccharide Materials and Modifications, School of Marine Sciences and Biotechnology, Guangxi Minzu University, Nanning 530006, PR China
| | - Du-Juan Pi
- Guangxi Key Laboratory for Polysaccharide Materials and Modifications, School of Marine Sciences and Biotechnology, Guangxi Minzu University, Nanning 530006, PR China
| | - Qian-Zhou Yu
- Guangxi Key Laboratory for Polysaccharide Materials and Modifications, School of Marine Sciences and Biotechnology, Guangxi Minzu University, Nanning 530006, PR China
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Pretorius L, Van Staden AD, Kellermann TA, Henning N, Smith C. Rooibos (Aspalathus linearis) alters secretome trace amine profile of probiotic and commensal microbes in vitro. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2022; 297:115548. [PMID: 35850312 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2022.115548] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2022] [Revised: 07/11/2022] [Accepted: 07/12/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY RELEVANCE Aspalathus linearis (Burm.f.) R. Dahlgren (rooibos) tea is anecdotally renowned for its calming effect in the context of gastrointestinal discomfort, but little scientific support is available to elucidate potential mechanisms of action. Enhancement of dietary polyphenol content to improve gut health via prebiotic-like modulation of the gut microbiota has gained significant research interest. Given the known high polyphenol content of rooibos, rooibos tea may potentially exert a prebiotic effect in the gut to facilitate an improvement in chronic inflammatory gastrointestinal conditions. AIM OF THE STUDY This study aimed to determine the prebiotic or health-modulating potential of rooibos tea in terms of its effect on gut microbial growth and secretome trace amine composition, as well as to determine how differential rooibos processing alters this activity. METHODS Three rooibos preparations (green and fermented leave aqueous extracts, as well as a green leaf ethanol extract) were compared in terms of their phenolic composition (qTOF-LC/MS). Moreover, the effect of rooibos exposure on growth and secretome trace amine levels of probiotic and commensal microbes were assessed (LC/MS). In addition, given the known female bias prevalent for many gastrointestinal disorders, experiments were conducted in the absence and presence of estradiol. RESULTS Polyphenolic composition of rooibos was drastically reduced by fermentation. Aqueous extracts of both green and fermented rooibos improved microbial growth, although fermented rooibos had the most pronounced effect (p < 0.01). In terms of secretome trace amine profile, both aqueous extracts of rooibos seemed to facilitate increased putrescine secretion (p < 0.0001) and decreased tryptamine production (p < 0.0001). Estradiol seemed to suppress trace amine secretion by bacteria (Lactobacillus plantarum, Lactobacillus reuteri and Enterococcus mundtii) but increased it in yeast (Saccharomyces boulardii). CONCLUSION Rooibos altered gut probiotic and commensal microbial growth and secretome trace amine profiles in vitro, suggesting it has potential to modulate gut microbial composition and functionality as a prebiotic. Current data suggest that these effects are highly dependent on raw material processing. Finally, rooibos may be able to prevent estradiol-associated alterations in trace amine profile, which may have important implications for patient management in female-predominant gastrointestinal disorders.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- L Pretorius
- Department of Physiological Sciences, Faculty of Science, Stellenbosch University, South Africa.
| | - A D Van Staden
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Science, Stellenbosch University, South Africa; Division of Clinical Pharmacology, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, South Africa.
| | - T A Kellermann
- Division of Clinical Pharmacology, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, South Africa.
| | - N Henning
- Division of Clinical Pharmacology, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, South Africa.
| | - C Smith
- Division of Clinical Pharmacology, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, South Africa.
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Wang Y, Liu Z, Wei J, Di L, Wang S, Wu T, Li N. Norlignans and phenolics from genus Curculigo protect corticosterone-injured neuroblastoma cells SH-SY5Y by inhibiting endoplasmic reticulum stress-mitochondria pathway. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2022; 296:115430. [PMID: 35659626 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2022.115430] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2022] [Revised: 05/22/2022] [Accepted: 05/31/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE The plants of genus Curculigo are divided into the Section Curculigo and the Section Capitulata, which are mainly distributed in southeastern and southwestern China. Various ancient chinese books record that these plants were used as an important herb for tonifying kidney yang. Traditional Chinese medicine often draws on this property to treat depression syndrome. Thus genus Curculigo has potential for the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases (ND). The study showed that phenolics were the main characteristic components of plants in the Section Curculigo, represented by orcinol glucoside and curculigoside; the norlignans, with Ph-C5-Ph as the basic backbone, were the main characteristic components of the Section Capitulata. However, there is a lack of sufficient scientific evidence as to whether these two types of ingredients have neuroprotective effects. AIM OF THE STUDY To determine the neuroprotective effects of phenolics and norlignans in genus Curculigo on human neuroblastoma cells SH-SY5Y. To discuss their structure-activity relationship and screen for compounds with high activity and neuroprotective effects. To reveal that the amelioration of endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress by two classes of compounds is mediated by the PERK/eIF2α/ATF4 pathway. MATERIALS AND METHODS The cytotoxicity of 17 compounds was assayed by MTT. SH-SY5Y cells were damaged by corticosterone (Cort) (200 μM) for 24 h and then co-administered with 17 compounds (0.1-100 μM) and Cort (200 μM) for 24 h. Cell survival was determined by MTT assay. Apoptosis rate, mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP) and intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels were detected using flow cytometry. Intracellular Ca2+ levels were detected using a fluorescent probe. Cellular mitochondrial and ER damage was observed using transmission electron microscopy (TEM). ER stress and apoptotic pathway-related proteins (BiP, CHOP, cleaved caspase-3, cleaved caspase-9, Bax/Bcl-2), and the expression level of PERK/eIF2α/ATF4 pathway was measured via western blot (WB). RESULTS The experimental data showed that Cort treatment of SH-SY5Y cells resulted in decreased cell survival and increased apoptosis, mitochondrial depolarization, ROS, and intracellular Ca2+ levels. The co-action of 17 compounds and Cort for a period of time significantly increased cell survival. Compounds 3, 7, 12, 13 also reduced apoptosis rate, mitochondrial depolarization, ROS and intracellular Ca2+ levels in the subsequent experiments. In addition, TEM observed that Cort caused mitochondrial and ER damage, and the damage was improved after treatment. WB analysis obtained that Cort increased the expression of apoptotic and ER stress-related proteins and activated pathway expression. However, in the presence of compounds 3, 7, 12, 13, the expression of BiP, CHOP, cleaved caspase-3, cleaved caspase-9, and Bax/Bcl-2 was significantly reduced, and the phosphorylation of PERK and eIF2α and the expression of ATF4 were inhibited. CONCLUSION This study found that one phenolic (3) and three norlignans (7, 12, 13) from genus Curculigo have significant neuroprotective effects. The results of the structure-activity relationship indicated that the glucosyl polymeric norlignans and the phenolics with benzoic acid as the parent nucleus were more active. The neuroprotective effect of three norlignans is the latest discovery. This finding has important research value in the field of prevention and treatment of neurodegenerative diseases.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ying Wang
- School of Pharmacy, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China.
| | - Zhenzhen Liu
- School of Pharmacy, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China.
| | - Juanru Wei
- School of Pharmacy, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China.
| | - Lei Di
- School of Pharmacy, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China.
| | - Sheng Wang
- Center for Scientific Research of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China.
| | - Tingni Wu
- School of Pharmacy, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China.
| | - Ning Li
- School of Pharmacy, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China.
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Aspalathus linearis (Rooibos) and Agmatine May Act Synergistically to Beneficially Modulate Intestinal Tight Junction Integrity and Inflammatory Profile. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2022; 15:ph15091097. [PMID: 36145318 PMCID: PMC9501288 DOI: 10.3390/ph15091097] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2022] [Revised: 08/17/2022] [Accepted: 08/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
In order to promote gastrointestinal health, significant increases in the prevalence of gastrointestinal disorders should be paralleled by similar surges in therapeutics research. Nutraceutical interventions may play a significant role in patient management. The current study aimed to determine the potential of Aspalathus linearis (rooibos) to prevent gastrointestinal dysregulation resulting from high-dose trace-amine (TA) exposure. Considering the substantial female bias in functional gastrointestinal disorders, and the suggested phytoestrogenicity of rooibos, the study design allowed for a comparison between the effects of an ethanol extract of green rooibos and 17β-estradiol (E2). High levels of ρ-tyramine (TYR) and agmatine (AGM), but not β-phenethylamine (PEA) or tryptamine (TRP), resulted in prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) hypersecretion, increased tight-junction protein (TJP; occludin and ZO-1) secretion and (dissimilarly) disrupted the TJP cellular distribution profile. Modulating benefits of rooibos and E2 were TA-specific. Rooibos pre-treatment generally reduced IL-8 secretion across all TA conditions and prevented PGE2 hypersecretion after exposure to both TYR and AGM, but was only able to normalise TJP levels and the distribution profile in AGM-exposed cells. In contrast, E2 pre-treatment prevented only TYR-associated PGE2 hypersecretion and TJP dysregulation. Together, the data suggest that the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects of rooibos, rather than phytoestrogenicity, affect benefits illustrated for rooibos.
Collapse
|
11
|
Hibiscus, Rooibos, and Yerba Mate for Healthy Aging: A Review on the Attenuation of In Vitro and In Vivo Markers Related to Oxidative Stress, Glycoxidation, and Neurodegeneration. Foods 2022; 11:foods11121676. [PMID: 35741873 PMCID: PMC9222775 DOI: 10.3390/foods11121676] [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: 05/17/2022] [Revised: 06/04/2022] [Accepted: 06/05/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
The world is currently undergoing a demographic change towards an increasing number of elderly citizens. Aging is characterized by a temporal decline in physiological capacity, and oxidative stress is a hallmark of aging and age-related disorders. Such an oxidative state is linked to a decrease in the effective mechanisms of cellular repair, the incidence of post-translational protein glycation, mitochondrial dysfunction, and neurodegeneration, just to name some of the markers contributing to the establishment of age-related reduction-oxidation, or redox, imbalance. Currently, there are no prescribed therapies to control oxidative stress; however, there are strategies to elevate antioxidant defenses and overcome related health challenges based on the adoption of nutritional therapies. It is well known that herbal teas such, as hibiscus, rooibos, and yerba mate, are important sources of antioxidants, able to prevent some oxidation-related stresses. These plants produce several bioactive metabolites, have a pleasant taste, and a long-lasting history as safe foods. This paper reviews the literature on hibiscus, rooibos, and yerba mate teas in the context of nutritional strategies for the attenuation of oxidative stress-related glycoxidation and neurodegeneration, and, here, Alzheimer’s Disease is approached as an example. The focus is given to mechanisms of glycation inhibition, as well as neuroprotective in vitro effects, and, in animal studies, to frame interest in these plants as nutraceutical agents related to current health concerns.
Collapse
|