Anticancer activity of Phyllanthus emblica Linn. (Indian gooseberry): inhibition of transcription factor AP-1 and HPV gene expression in cervical cancer cells

Phyllanthus emblica Linn: A comprehensive review of botany, traditional uses, phytonutrients, health benefits, quality markers, and applications

Phyllanthus emblica Linn is not only an edible fruit with high nutritional value, but also a medicinal plant with multiple bioactivities. It is widely used in clinical practice with functions of clearing heat, cooling blood, digesting food, strengthening stomach, promoting fluid production, and relieving cough. This review summarized a wide variety of phytonutrients, including nutritional components (mineral elements, amino acids, vitamins, polysaccharides, unsaturated free fatty acids) and functional components (phenolic acids (1-34), tannins (35-98), flavonoids (99-141), sterols (142-159), triterpenoids (160-175), lignans (176-183), alkaloids (184-197), alkanes (198-212), aromatic micromolecules (213-222), other compounds (223-239)). The isolated compounds and the various extracts of P. emblica Linn presented a diverse spectrum of biological activities such as anti-oxidant, anti-cancer, anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial, hepatoprotective, hypoglycemic, anti-atherosclerosis, neuroprotective, enhancing immunity, anti-fatigue, anti-myocardial fibrosis. The quality markers of P. emblica Linn were predicted and analyzed based on traditional medicinal properties, traditional efficacy, plant genealogy and chemical component characteristics, biogenic pathway of chemical components, measurability of chemical components, transformation characteristics of polyphenolic components, homologous characteristics of medicine and food, compound compatibility environment, and clinical applications. This review also summarized and prospected applications of P. emblica Linn in beverages, preserved fruits, fermented foods, etc. However, the contents of mechanism, structure-activity relationship, quality control, toxicity, extraction, processing of P. emblica Linn are not clear, and are worth further studies in the future.

Phyllanthus emblica fruit extract alleviates halitosis and reduces the inflammatory response to oral bacteria

OBJECTIVE

To assess the efficacy of Phyllanthus emblica extract in alleviating halitosis and reducing the inflammatory response to halitosis-related bacteria.

METHODOLOGY

This investigation, using Phyllanthus emblica fruit extract (PE), involved four aspects. First, we evaluated the effect on growth and aggregation of halitosis-related bacteria, including Fusobacterium nucleatum, Porphyromonas gingivalis, and Solobacterium moorei, using a microdilution assay and scanning electron microscopy. Second, volatile sulfur compound (VSC) levels were measured on individuals with halitosis in randomized short-term (26 participants) and double-blind randomized long-term trials (18 participants in each group) after rinsing with PE for 3, 6, and 12 h, and 28 days. Third, we analyzed pro-inflammatory cytokine expression in TR146 cells using quantitative real-time PCR and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays. Lastly, we assessed pro-inflammatory cytokine secretion and Toll-like receptor (TLR) 2 mRNA expression via the same experimental methods in a three-dimensional oral mucosal epithelial model (3D OMEM).

RESULTS

PE extract dose-dependently inhibited the growth of F. nucleatum (50% inhibition concentration [IC50]=0.079%), P. gingivalis (IC50=0.65%), and S. moorei (IC50=0.07%) and effectively prevented bacterial aggregation. Furthermore, VSC contents decreased significantly at 3, 6, and 12 h after rinsing with 5% PE compared with those in the control. Long-term use of mouthwash containing 5% PE for 28 days led to a significant decrease in VSC contents. PE attenuated the F. nucleatum- or P. gingivalis-stimulated mRNA expression and protein release of interleukin (IL)-6 and IL-8 in TR146 cells. It also suppressed IL-8 and prostaglandin E2 secretion and TLR2 mRNA expression in F. nucleatum-induced OMEMs.

CONCLUSION

Our findings support the use of PE in oral care products to alleviate halitosis and it may reduce inflammation.

Exploration of Polysaccharides from Phyllanthus emblica: Isolation, Identification, and Evaluation of Antioxidant and Anti-Glycolipid Metabolism Disorder Activities

Phyllanthus emblica is a natural medicinal herb with diverse bioactivities. Certain extracts from this herb have been confirmed to possess anti-glycolipid metabolic disorder activity. To further develop its utility value and explore its potential in combating glycolipid metabolic disorders, we designed a series of experiments to investigate the structure, antioxidant activity, and anti-glycolipid metabolic disorder activity of Phyllanthus emblica polysaccharides. In this study, we extracted and purified polysaccharides from Phyllanthus emblica and thoroughly analyzed their structure using various techniques, including NMR, methylation analysis, and surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy. We investigated the hypolipidemic and anti-glycolipid metabolism disorder activity of Phyllanthus emblica polysaccharides for the first time utilizing oleic acid (OA) and advanced glycation end products (AGEs) as inducers. Additionally, the antioxidant activity of Phyllanthus emblica polysaccharides was assessed in vitro. These findings lay the groundwork for future investigations into the potential application of Phyllanthus emblica polysaccharides as an intervention for preventing and treating diabetes.

Recent Insights into the Morphological, Nutritional and Phytochemical Properties of Indian Gooseberry (Phyllanthus emblica) for the Development of Functional Foods

Aonla, commonly known as Indian gooseberry (Phyllanthus emblica), is a plant native to India with various therapeutic and dietary benefits. This review covers the taxonomical, morphological, and species-level classifications of aonla fruit, including its flower biology, maturation, harvesting, and yield metrics. It also discusses the nutritional, physico-chemical, and phytochemical characteristics and the total antioxidant and antimicrobial activities and mineral compositions of several aonla fruit cultivars. Additionally, the health benefits of aonla are reviewed, including its analgesic, antipyretic, antioxidative, anti-inflammatory, anti-aging, ulcerogenic, chemo-protective, neuroprotective, free radical scavenging, hypoglycaemic, and immunogenic properties, which make it beneficial in the treatment and prevention of various illnesses. Further various forms of fruit extract are also considered to be beneficial for the improvement of plant and animal health. Overall, aonla is a valuable fruit with significant potential for use in improving human health.

Exploring potential targets of HPV&BC based on network pharmacology and urine proteomics

BACKGROUND

Bladder cancer (BC) caused by Human papillomavirus (HPV) infection remains a complex public health problem in developing countries. Although the HPV vaccine effectively prevents HPV infection, it does not benefit patients with BC who already have HPV.

METHODS

Firstly, the differential genes of HPV-related BC patients were screened by transcriptomics, and then the prognostic and clinical characteristics of the differential genes were analyzed to screen out the valuable protein signatures. Furthermore, the compound components and targets of Astragali Radix (AR) were analyzed by network pharmacology, and the intersection targets of drug components and HPV_BC were screened out for pathway analysis. In addition, the binding ability of the compound to the Astragali-HPV_BC target was verified by molecular docking and virtual simulation. Finally, to identify potential targets in BC patients through urine proteomics and in vitro experiments.

RESULTS

Eleven HPV_BC-related protein signatures were screened out, among which high expression of EGFR, CTNNB1, MYC, GSTM1, MMP9, CXCR4, NOTCH1, JUN, CXCL12, and KRT14 had a poor prognosis, while low expression of CASP3 had a poor prognosis. In the analysis of clinical characteristics, it was found that high-risk scores, EGFR, MMP9, CXCR4, JUN, and CXCL12 tended to have higher T stage, pathological stage, and grade. Pharmacological and molecular docking analysis identified a natural component of AR (Quercetin) and it corresponding core targets (EGFR). The OB of the natural component was 46.43, and the DL was 0.28, respectively. In addition, EGFR-Quercetin has high affinity. Urine proteomics and RT-PCR showed that EGFR was expressed explicitly in BC patients. Mechanism analysis revealed that AR component targets might affect HPV_BC patients through Proteoglycans in the cancer pathway.

CONCLUSION

AR can target EGFR through its active component (Quercetin), and has a therapeutic effect on HPV_BC patients.

Evaluation of Therapeutic Potential of Selected Plant-Derived Homeopathic Medicines for their Action against Cervical Cancer

BACKGROUND

Plant-derived homeopathic medicines (HMs) are cheap and commercially available but are mechanistically less explored entities than conventional medicines.

PURPOSE

The aim of our study was to evaluate the impact of selected plant-derived HMs derived from Berberis aquifolium (BA), Berberis vulgaris (BV), Mentha piperita (MP), Curcuma longa (CL), Cinchona officinalis (CO), Thuja occidentalis (TO) and Hydrastis canadensis (HC) on cervical cancer (CaCx) cells in vitro.

METHODS

We screened the mother tincture (MT) and 30C potencies of the above-mentioned HMs for anti-proliferative and cytotoxic activity on human papillomavirus (HPV)-negative (C33a) and HPV-positive CaCx cells (SiHa and HeLa) by MTT assay. Total phenolic content (TPC) and the free-radical scavenging activity of each HM was also determined using standard assays. Phytochemicals reportedly available in these HMs were examined for their potential inhibitory action on HPV16 E6 by in silico molecular docking.

RESULTS

All tested MTs induced a differential dose-dependent cytotoxic response that varied with cell line. For C33a cells, the order of response was TO > CL > BA > BV > HC > MP > CO, whereas for SiHa and HeLa cells the order was HC > MP > TO > CO > BA > BV > CL and CL > BA > CO, respectively. 30C potencies of all HMs showed an inconsistent response. Further, anti-CaCx responses displayed by MTs did not follow the order of an HM's phenolic content or free radical scavenging activity. Analysis revealed anti-oxidant content of BA, BV and HC had the lowest contribution to their anti-CaCx activity. Using in silico modeling of molecular docking between the HPV16 E6 protein crystallographic structures (6SJA and 4XR8) and main phytochemical components of BV, BA, HC, CL and TO, their potential to inhibit the HPV16 E6 protein carcinogenic interactions was identified.

CONCLUSION

The study has shown a comparative evaluation of the potential of several plant-derived MTs and HMs to affect CaCx cell line survival in vitro (through cytotoxicity and free radical scavenging) and their theoretical molecular targets in silico for the first time. Data demonstrated that MTs of BA and BV are likely to be the most potent HMs that strongly inhibited CaCx growth and have a strong anti-HPV phytochemical constitution.

Phyllanthus emblica: a comprehensive review of its phytochemical composition and pharmacological properties

Phyllanthus emblica Linn, a prominent member of the euphorbiaceae family, exhibits extensive distribution across a multitude of tropical and subtropical nations. Referred to as "Balakka" in Indonesia, this plant assumes various names across regions, such as "kimalaka," "balakka," "metengo," "malaka," and "kemloko" in North Sumatra, Ternate, Sundanese, and Java respectively. Phyllanthus emblica thrives in tropical locales like Indonesia, Malaysia, and Thailand, while also making its presence felt in subtropical regions like India, China, Uzbekistan, and Sri Lanka. The fruits of Balakka are enriched with bioactive constituents recognized for their wide-ranging benefits, including antioxidant, anti-aging, anti-cholesterol, anti-diabetic, immunomodulatory, antipyretic, analgesic, anti-inflammatory, chemoprotective, hepatoprotective, cardioprotective, antimutagenic, and antimicrobial properties. Comprising a spectrum of phenolic compounds (such as tannins, phenolic acids, and flavonoids), alkaloids, phytosterols, terpenoids, organic acids, amino acids, and vitamins, the bioactive components of Malacca fruit offer a diverse array of health-promoting attributes. In light of these insights, this review aims to comprehensively examine the pharmacological activities associated with P. emblica and delve into the intricate composition of its phytochemical constituents.

Two pyrrole acids isolated from Phyllanthus emblica L. and their bioactivities

An undescribed pyrrole acid, 1-(4'-methoxy-4'-oxobutyl)-1 H-pyrrole-2,5-dicarboxylic acid (1) and one known pyrrole acid (2) were isolated from the fruits of Phyllanthus emblica. The structures of these compounds were elucidated via the comprehensive analyses of IR, HRESIMS, 1D and 2D spectroscopic data. A series of biological assays revealed that compounds 1 and 2 could inhibit LPS-induced over-production of nitric oxide (NO), interleukin-6 (IL-6), monocyte chemotactic protein 1 (MCP-1) and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) by reducing the phosphorylation of extracellular regulated protein kinases (ERK) and c-Jun N-terminal kinases (JNK) in RAW 264.7 cells. Additionally, compounds 1 and 2 were found to reduce lipid deposition and increase the mRNA expression of ATP-binding cassette transporter A1 in oxidized low-density lipoprotein-treated RAW264.7 macrophages.

Anticancer effects of phytol against Sarcoma (S-180) and Human Leukemic (HL-60) cancer cells

Phytol (Pyt), a diterpenoid, possesses many important bioactivities. This study evaluates the anticancer effects of Pyt on sarcoma 180 (S-180) and human leukemia (HL-60) cell lines. For this purpose, cells were treated with Pyt (4.72, 7.08, or 14.16 μM) and a cell viability assay was performed. Additionally, the alkaline comet assay and micronucleus test with cytokinesis were also performed using doxorubicin (6 μM) and hydrogen peroxide (10 mM) as positive controls and stressors, respectively. Results revealed that Pyt significantly reduced the viability and rate of division in S-180 and HL-60 cells with IC50 values of 18.98 ± 3.79 and 1.17 ± 0.34 μM, respectively. Pyt at 14.16 μM exerted aneugenic and/or clastogenic effects in S-180 and HL-60 cells, where the number of micronuclei and other nuclear abnormalities (e.g., nucleoplasmic bridges and nuclear buds) were frequently observed. Moreover, Pyt at all concentrations induced apoptosis and showed necrosis at 14.16 μM, suggesting its anticancer effects on the tested cancer cell lines. Taken together, Pyt showed promising anticancer effects, possibly through inducing apoptosis and necrosis mechanisms, and it exerted aneugenic and/or clastogenic effects on the S-180 and HL-60 cell lines.

Current advances on the phytochemical composition, pharmacologic effects, toxicology, and product development of Phyllanthi Fructus

Phyllanthi Fructus (PF), the edible fruits of Phyllanthus emblica L., serves as an important resource for some health products, foods and drugs due to its high safety and sufficient nutritional value. In recent years, in vivo and in vitro experiments have been conducted to reveal the active components of PF. More than 180 compounds have been isolated and identified from the PF so far, primarily including tannins, phenolic acids, flavonoids, terpenoids, polysaccharides, fatty acids and amino acids. In traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), PF is used to cure several diseases such as bronchitis, asthma, diabetes, peptic ulcer, hepatopathy, leprosy, and jaundice. Consistent with ethnopharmacology, numerous modern studies have demonstrated that the extracts or monomeric compounds derived from PF exhibit various pharmacological effects including anti-oxidation, anti-bacteria, anti-inflammation, anti-tumour, anti-virus, immunity improvement, hypoglycemic and hypolipidemic effects, and multiple organ protective protection. Toxicological studies on PF indicated the absence of any adverse effects even at a high dose after oral administration. Due to strict quality control, these pharmacological activities and the safety of PF greatly improve the development and utilization of products. Our comprehensive review aims to summarize the phytochemistry, pharmacological effects, toxicology, and product development of PF to provide theoretical guidance and new insights for further research on PF in the future.

Evaluation of the Therapeutic Effect of the Traditional Herbal Medicine Atrifil and Oshagh Gum on Testosterone-Induced Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia in Wistar Rats

Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is a common disease that affects elderly men with various complications. This study evaluates the effects of an Iranian traditional herbal medicine "Atrifil and Oshagh gum" on BPH in male Wistar rats. Atrifil is a combination of three medicinal plants: Emblica officinalis Gaertn, Terminalia chebula Retz, and Terminalia bellerica Retz" extracts, and Oshagh gum is Dorema ammoniacum D. Dono gum. In this study, 30 male Wistar rats were divided into five groups: normal control, disease, finasteride, and extract with 300 and 600 mg/kg groups. The extract is a combination of hydroalcoholic Atrifil extract and Oshagh gum. All groups received intramuscular testosterone enanthate to induce BPH except the normal control group. On the twenty-eighth day, prostate glands were separated. Histopathological changes were observed. Furthermore, the prostate-specific antigen (PSA) and prostate weights were measured. The binding propensities of finasteride, equol, and flavonoids present in this extract such as quercetin, rutin, and kaempferol for 5α-reductase, estrogen receptor alpha and beta, and estrogen-related receptor gamma were assessed using in silico docking approach. Histopathological evaluation, biochemical parameter, and PSA level results indicated significant inhibition of accruing and progression of BPH in groups treated with 600 mg/kg extract (p < 0.01). Furthermore, molecular docking showed that rutin had a high affinity to bind the receptors 5α-reductase, estrogen receptor beta, and estrogen-related receptor gamma even more than finasteride, and on average, quercetin had a higher affinity to all these receptors. In the end, it can be concluded that Atrifil and Oshagh gum is effective in preventing BPH.

Natural Bioactives: Back to the Future in the Fight against Human Papillomavirus? A Narrative Review

Human papillomavirus (HPV) still represents an important threat to health worldwide. Better therapy in terms of further improvement of outcomes and attenuation of related side-effects is desirable. The pharmaceutical industry has always targeted natural substances-phytochemicals in particular-to identify lead compounds to be clinically validated and industrially produced as antiviral and anticancer drugs. In the field of HPV, numerous naturally occurring bioactives and dietary phytochemicals have been investigated as potentially valuable in vitro and in vivo. Interference with several pathways and improvement of the efficacy of chemotherapeutic agents have been demonstrated. Notably, some clinical trials have been conducted. Despite being endowed with general safety, these natural substances are in urgent need of further assessment to foresee their clinical exploitation. This review summarizes the basic research efforts conducted so far in the study of anti-HPV properties of bio-actives with insights into their mechanisms of action and highlights the variety of their natural origin in order to provide comprehensive mapping throughout the different sources. The clinical studies available are reported, as well, to highlight the need of uniformity and consistency of studies in the future to select those natural compounds that may be suited to clinical application.

Molecular Mechanisms of Cancer Prevention by Gooseberry (Phyllanthus emblica)

Indian gooseberry (Emblica officinalis Gaertn or Phyllanthus emblica Linn; family Phyllanthaceae) has a recognized history in Indian traditional medicine (Ayurveda). Various therapeutic properties have been attributed to gooseberry as a dietary supplement. Many parts of the plant (fruits, seed, leaves, root, bark, and flowers) possess various activities and are used to treat a range of diseases. This review focuses on the evidence for the cancer-preventive properties of gooseberry, its extracts, and its principal phytochemicals based on studies In Vitro and In Vivo. Most importantly, in multiple rodent models of cancer, treatment with P. emblica was found to prevent tumor incidence, number, and volume at various organ sites. The mechanism(s) implicated in gooseberry-mediated cancer inhibition are diverse and include antioxidants, Phase I and II enzyme modifications, anti-inflammatory action, regulation of the cell cycle, and modulation of oncogenic signaling genes. Studies in humans also indicate that P. emblica can offer various health benefits and synergize with other treatments. This review provides detailed information on the potential use of gooseberry extract as an anticarcinogenic in humans, illuminates the therapeutic applications, and discusses clinical trials.

Phytocompounds from Himalayan Medicinal Plants as Potential Drugs to Treat Multidrug-Resistant Salmonella typhimurium: An In Silico Approach

Medicinal plants can be used as natural therapeutics to treat diseases in humans. Enteric bacteria possess efflux pumps to remove bile salts from cells to avoid potential membrane damage. Resistance to bile and antibiotics is associated with the survival of Salmonella enterica subspecies enterica serovar Typhimurium (S. typhimurium) within a host. The present study aimed to investigate the binding affinity of major phytocompounds derived from 35 medicinal plants of the North Western Himalayas with the RamR protein (PDB ID 6IE9) of S. typhimurium. Proteins and ligands were prepared using AutoDock software 1.5.6. Molecular docking was performed using AutoDock Vina and MD simulation was performed at 100 ns. Drug likeness and toxicity predictions of hit phytocompounds were evaluated using molinspiration and ProTox II online servers. Moreover, docking, drug likeness, and toxicity results revealed that among all the selected phytocompounds, beta-sitosterol exhibited the most efficacious binding affinity with RamR protein (PDB ID 6IE9) and was nontoxic in nature. MD simulation data revealed that beta-sitosterol in complex with 6IE9 can be used as an antimicrobial. Furthermore, beta-sitosterol is stable in the binding pocket of the target protein; hence, it can be further explored as a drug to inhibit resistance-nodulation-division efflux pumps.

Assessment of the Cytotoxic Activity of Triphala: A Semisolid Traditional Formulation on HepG2 Cancer Cell Line

Cancer chemotherapies may result in resistance, and therefore, contemporary treatments including natural products may find an increasing consideration. As per Persian medicine (PM), many natural products have been used for malignant and chronic diseases. Triphala, with a combination of Terminalia chebula Retz., Terminalia bellirica Retz., Phyllanthus emblica L., and honey, is a multi-ingredient traditional formulation attributed to anticancer activities in PM. This study is aimed at evaluating the cytotoxic activity of this preparation on HepG₂, the human liver cancer cell line. Hydroalcoholic extracts were prepared from the formulation and its components. Compared with the control and Cisplatin, the extracts were tested using MTT assay at different concentrations. All concentrations of the preparation, as well as Cisplatin, were effective significantly against HepG₂ cells. All extract preparations at multiple concentrations were significantly effective as evidenced by MTT assay when compared to the control group. The IC₅₀ level for Triphala extract was 77.63 ± 4.3 μg/ml. Based on the results, Triphala and its components have cytotoxic activity on the HepG₂ cancer cell line and they can reduce the survival rate significantly.

Nutritional Profile and Potential Health Benefits of Super Foods: A Review

The advancement within the food and nutrition sector has resulted in the development of a special category of food, particularly referred to as “superfoods”. Superfoods are special kind of foods capable of exhibiting different positive effects involving prevention of different ailments, provide impetus to the immune system, and essential macro- and micro-nutrients in ample quantities. Nowadays, these are gaining considerable attention due to the increased health consciousness of consumers. In contrast to their exceptional health or even medicinal benefits, which are based on their long history of use, the concept of superfoods is still little understood. The category of superfoods mainly comprises different types of fruits, vegetables, grains, etc. This review sheds light on the nutritional composition as well as the possible intervention in the prevention of various chronic ailments of some significant superfoods. This manuscript could help consumers to use superfoods as part of their diet more often and very effectively.

Antiviral Activity Exerted by Natural Products against Human Viruses

Viral infections are responsible for several chronic and acute diseases in both humans and animals. Despite the incredible progress in human medicine, several viral diseases, such as acquired immunodeficiency syndrome, respiratory syndromes, and hepatitis, are still associated with high morbidity and mortality rates in humans. Natural products from plants or other organisms are a rich source of structurally novel chemical compounds including antivirals. Indeed, in traditional medicine, many pathological conditions have been treated using plant-derived medicines. Thus, the identification of novel alternative antiviral agents is of critical importance. In this review, we summarize novel phytochemicals with antiviral activity against human viruses and their potential application in treating or preventing viral disease.

Anticancer activity of Nigerian medicinal plants: a review

Background

Cancer is currently the leading cause of death globally and the number of deaths from cancer is on the rise daily. Medicinal plants have been in continuous use over the years for the management of cancer, particularly, in most developing countries of the world including Nigeria. The use of synthetic drugs for the treatment of cancer is often accompanied by toxic side effects. Thus, the alternative use of readily available and inexpensive medicinal plants is the panacea to the toxic side effects associated with synthetic drugs.

Main body

The present review summarized the anticancer activity of 51 medicinal plants that are widespread in all regions of Nigeria. Furthermore, the proposed anticancer pharmacological actions as well as the anticancer bioactive compounds, the type of cancer cell inhibited, the plant parts responsible for the anticancer activity, and the nature of the extracts used for the studies were discussed in this review. The 51 Nigerian medicinal plants were reported to exhibit anticancer activities of the prostate, cervices, lung, skin, colon, esophagus, blood, ovary, central nervous system/brain, breast, stomach, pancreas, larynx, and kidney. The major classes of bioactive compounds indicated to be responsible for the anticancer activity include the polyphenols, flavonoids, alkaloids, saponins, triterpenes, tannins, and quinones. The major anticancer pharmacological actions of these bioactive compounds were antiproliferative, cytotoxic, cytostatic, antimetastatic, apoptotic, and antioxidative as well as provoked cell cycle arrest, inhibition of angiogenesis and reduction of cancer cell viability.

Conclusion

The Nigerian medicinal plants can be harnessed to provide for readily available and inexpensive anticancer drugs in the future because the plants reported in this review showed promising anticancer activity.

Advances in biotechnology of Emblica officinalis Gaertn. syn. Phyllanthus emblica L.: a nutraceuticals-rich fruit tree with multifaceted ethnomedicinal uses

Emblica officinalis Gaertn. syn. Phyllanthus emblica L., universally known as ‘Amla’ or ‘Aonla’ or ‘Indian gooseberry’, is a popular fruit tree belonging to the family Euphorbiaceae and order Geraniales. It is said to be the very first tree that originated on earth, as claimed by age-old Indian mythology. Almost all parts of the tree i.e., root, bark, leaf, flower, fruit and seed are utilized in Ayurvedic and Unani medicinal formulations to improve the overall digestive process, decrease fever, act as a blood purifier, relieve asthma and cough, improve heart health, etc. This tree contains major secondary metabolites like emblicanin-A and emblicanin-B, and also is an affluent source of vitamin-C. Additionally, some other secondary metabolites like tannins, gallic acid, pyrogallol, and pectin are also present in significant amounts. Conventional propagation has been improved via suitable interventions of agrotechnology both in production and protection areas. However, the rate of propagation remains slower; therefore, attempts have been made for biotechnological advancements on E. officinalis. The present review makes an attempt to highlight the botanical description, geographical distribution, ethnopharmacological importance, conventional propagation and protection of this medicinal tree, describing the in vitro-based plant organ and tissue culture methods like direct and indirect organogenesis and somatic embryogenesis along with interventions of molecular marker-based biotechnology and nanotechnology. Further, the prospect of the yet-to-be-explored biotechnological methods for secondary metabolite enhancement like cell suspension, protoplast culture, genetic transformation, etc. and their potential for enhanced emblicanin production have also been discussed in this appraisal.

Plant-Derived Natural Compounds in Genetic Vaccination and Therapy for HPV-Associated Cancers

Simple Summary

DNA vaccination represents a useful approach for human papillomavirus (HPV) cancer therapy. The therapeutic potential of plant-based natural compounds for control of HPV- associated cancers has been also widely explored. Genetic vaccines for HPV-associated tumors that include plant protein-encoding gene sequences, used alone or in combinations with plant metabolites, are being investigated but are still in their infancy. Main focus of this paper is to provide an overview of the current state of novel therapeutic strategies employing genetic vaccines along with plant-derived compounds and genes. We highlight the importance of multimodality treatment regimen such as combining immunotherapy with plant-derived agents.

Abstract

Antigen-specific immunotherapy and, in particular, DNA vaccination provides an established approach for tackling human papillomavirus (HPV) cancers at different stages. DNA vaccines are stable and have a cost-effective production. Their intrinsic low immunogenicity has been improved by several strategies with some success, including fusion of HPV antigens with plant gene sequences. Another approach for the control of HPV cancers is the use of natural immunomodulatory agents like those derived from plants, that are able to interfere in carcinogenesis by modulating many different cellular pathways and, in some instances, to reduce chemo- and radiotherapy resistance of tumors. Indeed, plant-derived compounds represent, in many cases, an abundantly available, cost-effective source of molecules that can be either harvested directly in nature or obtained from plant cell cultures. In this review, an overview of the most relevant data reported in literature on the use of plant natural compounds and genetic vaccines that include plant-derived sequences against HPV tumors is provided. The purpose is also to highlight the still under-explored potential of multimodal treatments implying DNA vaccination along with plant-derived agents.

The AP-1 pathway; A key regulator of cellular transformation modulated by oncogenic viruses

Cancer progression is critically associated with modulation of host cell signaling pathways. Activator protein-1 (AP-1) signaling is one such pathway whose deregulation renders the host more susceptible to cancer development. Oncogenic viruses, including hepatitis B virus, hepatitis C virus, human papilloma virus, Epstein-Barr virus, human T-cell lymphotropic virus type 1, and Kaposi's sarcoma-associated herpes virus, are common causes of cancer. This review discusses how these oncoviruses by acting through various aspects of the host cell signaling machinery such as the AP-1 pathway might affect oncoviral tumorigenesis, replication, and pathogenesis. The review also briefly considers how the pathway might be targeted during infections with these oncogenic viruses.

Therapeutic efficacy of Phyllanthus emblica-coated iron oxide nanoparticles in A549 lung cancer cell line

Aim: Present work was undertaken to fabricate iron oxide nanoparticles (IONPs) using a green approach for increased therapeutic efficacy. Materials & methods: Two types of IONPs were synthesized, one without any coating (IONP_UC) and other coated with Phyllanthus emblica (Amla) fruit extract (IONP_A). Both the IONPs were characterized using different techniques and therapeutic efficacy was evaluated in A549 human lung cancer cell line. Results: IONP_A were smaller in size with better dispersibility compared with IONP_UC. They induced increased reactive oxygen species production, higher DNA damage and apoptosis, which resulted in increased toxicity to cancer cells in comparison to IONP_UC. Conclusion: Higher uptake of IONP_A and active components coating the surface, may be responsible for the increased therapeutic efficacy in cancer cells.

Antiproliferative activities and phenolic acid content of water and ethanolic extracts of the powdered formula of Houttuynia cordata Thunb. fermented broth and Phyllanthus emblica Linn. fruit

BACKGROUND

Houttuynia cordata Thunb. and Phyllanthus emblica Linn. are native plants with medicinal and nutritive significance in Asia. The present study was aimed at evaluating antiproliferative effects on human cancer cell lines and identifying the phenolic acid composition of water and ethanolic extracts of the powdered formula of H. cordata fermented broth and P. emblica fruit.

METHODS

Anticancer activity of the extracts was evaluated against HeLa, HT29, HCT116, MCF7 and Jurkat cells using an MTT assay and flow cytometric analysis of apoptosis induction and cell cycle arrest. Reverse phase HPLC was exploited for identification and quantification of some phenolic acids.

RESULTS

MTT assay showed that both water and ethanolic extracts significantly decreased the viability of cancer cells in a dose- and time-dependent fashion. Based on the IC₅₀ values, ethanolic extract (IC₅₀ values = 0.12-0.65 mg/mL) was more cytotoxic than water extract (IC₅₀ values = 0.22-0.85 mg/mL) and Jurkat cells were the most sensitive to both extracts (IC₅₀ values = 0.12-0.69 mg/mL). The underlying mechanism for antiproliferative activity was apoptosis induction, especially in HT29, HCT116, MCF7 and Jurkat cells. HT29 cells were the most sensitive to extract-induced apoptosis. Ethanolic extract was more effective at inducing apoptosis than water extract. Moreover, cell cycle arrest was found to be another mechanism behind growth inhibition in Jurkat and HCT116 cells. However, these extracts were relatively less toxic to non-cancer Vero cells. HPLC analysis demonstrated that the powder mix extracts contained seven identified phenolic acids namely gallic, p-hydroxybenzoic, vanillic, syringic, p-coumaric, ferulic and sinapinic acids, where p-coumaric acid was detected in the highest concentration followed by ferulic acid.

CONCLUSION

Overall, the results of this study suggest the powdered formula of H. cordata fermented broth and P. emblica fruit as an alternative medicine for cancer prevention and treatment.

Saudi anti-human cancer plants database (SACPD): A collection of plants with anti-human cancer activities

Several anticancer drugs have been developed from natural products such as plants. Successful experiments in inhibiting the growth of human cancer cell lines using Saudi plants were published over the last three decades. Up to date, there is no Saudi anticancer plants database as a comprehensive source for the interesting data generated from these experiments. Therefore, there was a need for creating a database to collect, organize, search and retrieve such data. As a result, the current paper describes the generation of the Saudi anti-human cancer plants database (SACPD). The database contains most of the reported information about the naturally growing Saudi anticancer plants. SACPD comprises the scientific and local names of 91 plant species that grow naturally in Saudi Arabia. These species belong to 38 different taxonomic families. In Addition, 18 species that represent16 family of medicinal plants and are intensively sold in the local markets in Saudi Arabia were added to the database. The website provides interesting details, including plant part containing the anticancer bioactive compounds, plants locations and cancer/cell type against which they exhibit their anticancer activity. Our survey revealed that breast, liver and leukemia were the most studied cancer cell lines in Saudi Arabia with percentages of 27%, 19% and 15%, respectively. The current SACPD represents a nucleus around which more development efforts can expand to accommodate all future submissions about new Saudi plant species with anticancer activities. SACPD will provide an excellent starting point for researchers and pharmaceutical companies who are interested in developing new anticancer drugs. SACPD is available online at https://teeqrani1.wixsite.com/sapd

The Efficacy of a Chewing Gum Containing Phyllanthus emblica Fruit Extract in Improving Oral Health

Phyllanthus emblica: (PE) fruit extract has pharmacological activity and exert anti-bacterial, anti-oxidative, anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer effects, but few study exist for evaluating its improved effects on the imbalance of oral ecology, which may contribute to series of oral diseases. In this study, an examiner-blinded, randomized, and gum-base-controlled crossover manner was conducted to evaluate the efficacy of a sugar-free chewing gum containing PE fruit extract in changing the oral microbiome. Twenty healthy young adults were randomly instructed to chew either PE gum or placebo gum. Saliva samples were collected at baseline and from 0 to 2, 2 to 5, 5 to 10, 10 to 15, and 75 to 80 min after each intervention. The following outcomes were measured: (i) salivary flow rate and pH value; (ii) total bacteria, Streptococcus mutans (S. mutans) and Porphyromonas gingivalis (P. gingivalis) counts; and (iii) volatile sulfur compound (VSC) concentrations. The results showed similar data between groups at baseline and significantly higher salivary flow rates and pH levels in the PE fruit gum group after 0-2, 2-5, and 5-10 min of chewing. Assessment of total bacteria, S. mutans, P. gingivalis, and VSC levels revealed significant differences between the PE and control gum groups at 75-80 min. No adverse effects were registered. The present finding indicated chewing gum containing PE fruit extract stimulated salivary flow and significantly reduced clinical test indexes in the short term. Chewing PE gum might be a safe means of improving oral hygiene.

Identification and characterization of phenolics and terpenoids from ethanolic extracts of Phyllanthus species by HPLC-ESI-QTOF-MS/MS

Phyllanthus species plants are a rich source of phenolics and widely used due to their medicinal properties. A liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry (LC–MS/MS) method was developed using high-pressure liquid chromatography coupled with quadrupole time-of-flight tandem mass spectrometry (HPLC-ESI-QTOF-MS/MS) for the identification and characterization of quercetin, kaempferol, ellagic acid and their derivatives in ethanolic extracts of Phyllanthus species. The chromatographic separation was carried out on Thermo Betasil C₈ column (250 mm×4.5 mm, 5 µm) using 0.1% formic acid in water and 0.1% formic acid in methanol as the mobile phase. The identification of diagnostic fragment ions and optimization of collision energies were carried out using 21 reference standards. Totally 51 compounds were identified which include 21 compounds identified and characterized unambiguously by comparison with their authentic standards and the remaining 30 were tentatively identified and characterized in ethanolic extracts of P. emblica, P. fraternus, P. amarus and P. niruri.

Molecular mechanisms of cholangiocarcinoma cell inhibition by medicinal plants

Cholangiocarcinoma (CCA) is one of the most common causes of cancer-associated mortality in Thailand. Certain phytochemicals have been demonstrated to modulate apoptotic signaling pathways, which may be targeted for the prevention and treatment of cancer. Therefore, the aim of the present study was to investigate the effect of specific medicinal plants on the inhibition of CCA cell proliferation, and to identify the molecular mechanisms underlying this. A WST-1 cell proliferation assay was performed using an RMCCA1 cell line, and apoptotic signaling pathways were also investigated using a PathScan Stress and Apoptosis Signaling Antibody Array Kit. The cell proliferation assay indicated that extracts from the Phyllanthus emblica fruit pulp (PEf), Phyllanthus emblica seed (PEs), Terminalia chebula fruit pulp (TCf), Terminalia chebula seed (TCs), Areca catechu seed (ACs), Curcuma longa (CL) and Moringa oleifera seed (MOs) exerted anti-proliferative activity in RMCCA1 cells. In addition, the PathScan assay revealed that certain pro-apoptotic molecules, including caspase-3, poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase, checkpoint kinase 2 and tumor protein 53, exhibited increased activity in RMCCA1 cells treated with the aforementioned selected plant extracts, with the exception of PEf. The mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathways (including ERK1/2 and p38 MAPK) expression level was significantly increased in RMCCA1 cells pre-treated with extracts of PEs, TCf, CL and MOs. The activation of protein kinase B (Akt) was significantly demonstrated in RMCCA1 cells pre-treated with extracts of TCf, ACs and MOs. In summary, the present study demonstrated that extracts of PEs, TCf, TCs, ACs, CL and MOs exhibited anti-proliferative effects in CCA cells by inducing pro-apoptotic signals and modulating signal transduction molecules. Further studies in vivo are required to demonstrate the potential applications of specific plant extracts for the treatment of human cancer.

Therapeutic Potential and Molecular Mechanisms of Emblica officinalis Gaertn in Countering Nephrotoxicity in Rats Induced by the Chemotherapeutic Agent Cisplatin

Emblica officinalis Gaertn. belonging to family Euphorbiaceae is commonly known as Indian gooseberry or "Amla" in India. It is used as a 'rejuvenating herb' in traditional system of Indian medicine. It has been shown to possess antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and anti-apoptotic effects. Thus, on the basis of its biological effects, the present study was undertaken to evaluate the protective effect of the dried fruit extract of the E. Officinalis (EO) in cisplatin-induced nephrotoxicity in rats and also to evaluate the mechanism of its nephroprotection. The study was done on male albino Wistar rats. They were divided into six groups (n = 6) viz. control, cisplatin-control, cisplatin and EO (150, 300, and 600 mg/kg; p.o. respectively in different groups) and EO only (600 mg/kg; p.o. only). EO was administered orally to the rats for a period of 10 days and on the 7th day, a single injection of cisplatin (8 mg/kg; i.p.) was administered to the cisplatin-control and EO treatment groups. The rats were sacrificed on the 10th day. Cisplatin-control rats had deranged renal function parameters and the kidney histology confirmed the presence of acute tubular necrosis. Furthermore, there were increased oxidative stress, apoptosis and inflammation along with higher expression of MAPK pathway proteins in the rat kidney from the cisplatin-control group. Contrary to this, EO (600 mg/kg) significantly normalized renal function, bolstered antioxidant status and ameliorated histological alterations. The inflammation and apoptosis were markedly lower in comparison to cisplatin-control rats. Furthermore, EO (600 mg/kg) inhibited MAPK phosphorylation which was instrumental in preserving renal function and morphology. In conclusion, the results of our study demonstrated that EO attenuated cisplatin-induced nephrotoxicity in rats through suppression of MAPK induced inflammation and apoptosis.

Roles of phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase regulatory subunit alpha, activator protein-1, and programmed cell death 4 in diagnosis of papillary thyroid carcinoma

This study evaluated the diagnostic values of phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase regulatory subunit alpha (P85α), activator protein-1 (AP-1), and programmed cell death 4 (PDCD4) in papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC). P85α, AP-1, and PDCD4 expressions were detected in PTC tissues (n = 116) and thyroid papillary hyperplasia (PTH) tissues (n = 90) by immunohistochemistry, western blot, and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Associations of P85α, AP-1, and PDCD4 expressions with clinicopathological features in PTC were analyzed. Diagnostic values of P85α, AP-1, and PDCD4 in PTC were evaluated by receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve. P85α, AP-1, and PDCD4 expression levels in PTC tissues were statistically different from those in PTH tissues (all P < 0.05). In PTC tissues, AP-1 expression was positively associated with P85α expression (r = 0.841, P < 0.01), while negatively associated with PDCD4 expression (r = -0.755, P < 0.01). P85α expression was associated with lymph node metastasis (LNM) and the degree of differentiation (both P < 0.05); AP-1 and PDCD4 expressions were associated with the degree of differentiation (both P < 0.05). The diagnostic sensitivity and specificity of P85α were 92.2 and 91.1 %, respectively, with a cutoff value of 2.100 and an area under curve (AUC) of 0.966. The diagnostic sensitivity and specificity of AP-1 reached 94.4 and 93.3 % with a cutoff value of 1.655 and an AUC of 0.987. The diagnostic sensitivity and specificity of PDCD4 were 54.4 and 85.6 % with a cutoff value of 2.025 and an AUC of 0.754. P85α, AP-1, and PDCD4 proteins may be related to the tumorigenesis and progression of PTC. Moreover, P85α, AP-1, and PDCD4 proteins may serve as potential diagnostic markers to the biological behavior of PTC.

Evaluation of Cellular Antioxidant and Antiproliferative Activities of Five Main Phyllanthus Emblica L. Cultivars in China

The cell-based antioxidant activity assay as more biological relevant assay was considered to be more accurate to predict antioxidant activity in vivo than chemical activity assays. In the present study, the five main Phyllanthus emblica L. cultivars in China were subjected for cellular antioxidant activity based on HepG2 cells as well as antiproliferative activity. Total phenolics, total flavonoids and oxygen radical absorbance capacity were also measured. The results showed that Qingyougan, Binggan and Boligan (832±100, 774±52 and 704±28 μmol of quercetin equivalents/100 g) had higher cellular antioxidant activity than Tianyougan and Yougan (553±50 and 457±24 μmol of quercetin equivalents/100 g) in phosphate buffered saline wash protocol whereas, Boligan (3735±217 μmol of quercetin equivalents/100 g) had the highest cellular antioxidant activity and Tianyougan (2025±171 μmol of quercetin equivalents/100 g) had the lowest cellular antioxidant activity in no phosphate buffered saline wash protocol. The highest and lowest antiproliferative activities were observed in Binggan and Tianyougan (median effective dose: 6.95±0.11 and 14.03±0.10 mg/ml), respectively. The significant correlation was only observed between total flavonoids and cellular antioxidant activity from no phosphate buffered saline wash protocol (R(2) =0.908, P<0.05), and total flavonoids and antiproliferative activity (R(2) =0.887, P<0.05), suggesting the major contribution of flavonoids to the bioactivities of emblica. Overall, the data obtained revealed that different Phyllanthus emblica L. cultivars had strong cellular antioxidant and antiproliferative activities, thus should be recommended to increase consumption for health.

Anticancer Properties of Phyllanthus emblica (Indian Gooseberry)

There is a wealth of information emanating from both in vitro and in vivo studies indicating fruit extract of the Phyllanthus emblica tree, commonly referred to as Indian Gooseberries, has potent anticancer properties. The bioactivity in this extract is thought to be principally mediated by polyphenols, especially tannins and flavonoids. It remains unclear how polyphenols from Phyllanthus emblica can incorporate both cancer-preventative and antitumor properties. The antioxidant function of Phyllanthus emblica can account for some of the anticancer activity, but clearly other mechanisms are equally important. Herein, we provide a brief overview of the evidence supporting anticancer activity of Indian Gooseberry extracts, suggest possible mechanisms for these actions, and provide future directions that might be taken to translate these findings clinically.