Biological properties and molecular targets of umbelliprenin--a mini-review

Umbelliprenin attenuates comorbid behavioral disorders in acetic acid-induced colitis in mice: mechanistic insights into hippocampal oxidative stress and neuroinflammation

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is often accompanied by psychiatric disorders. Emerging evidence suggests that neuroinflammation and oxidative stress contribute to the psychiatric symptoms associated with IBD. Umbelliprenin (UMB) possesses several pharmacological properties, including anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. This study aimed to investigate the protective effects of UMB on comorbid behavioral disorders in a mouse model of experimental colitis, focusing on its potential anti-neuroinflammatory and antioxidant activities. After inducing colitis with acetic acid, male NMRI mice were treated for 7 consecutive days with UMB, saline, or dexamethasone. Behavioral assessments included the forced swimming test (FST), splash test, open field test (OFT), and elevated plus maze (EPM). Histopathological changes in the colon were evaluated, and total antioxidant capacity (TAC), malondialdehyde (MDA) levels, and the expression of inflammatory genes (TNFα, IL1β, and TLR4) were measured in the hippocampus. Colitis was associated with increased immobility time in the FST, reduced entries and time spent in the open arms of the EPM, decreased grooming behavior in the splash test, and reduced time spent in the central zone of the OFT. Colitis also resulted in a reduction in TAC and an increase in MDA levels and inflammatory gene expression in the hippocampus. UMB treatment mitigated the behavioral disorders associated with colitis, reduced neuroinflammation and oxidative stress in the hippocampus, and alleviated histopathological alterations in the colon. In conclusion, UMB may reduce behavioral disorders induced by colitis by decreasing oxidative stress and neuroinflammation in the hippocampus.

Umbelliprenin via increase in the MECP2 and attenuation of oxidative stress mitigates the autistic-like behaviors in mouse model of maternal separation stress

Introduction: Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a complex neurodevelopmental condition. Maternal separation (MS) stress is an early-life stress factor associated with behaviors resembling Autism. Both MECP2 and oxidative stress are implicated in the pathophysiology of Autism. Umbelliprenin (UMB) is a coumarin compound with various pharmacological properties. Our study aimed to investigate the potential effects of UMB in mitigating autistic-like behaviors in a mouse model subjected to MS stress, focusing on probable alterations in MECP2 gene expression in the hippocampus. Methods: MS paradigm was performed, and mice were treated with saline or UMB. Behavioral tests consisting of the three-chamber test (evaluating social interaction), shuttle box (assessing passive avoidance memory), elevated plus-maze (measuring anxiety-like behaviors), and marble-burying test (evaluating repetitive behaviors) were conducted. Gene expression of MECP2 and measurements of total antioxidant capacity (TAC), nitrite level, and malondialdehyde (MDA) level were assessed in the hippocampus. Results: The findings demonstrated that MS-induced behaviors resembling Autism, accompanied by decreased MECP2 gene expression, elevated nitrite, MDA levels, and reduced TAC in the hippocampus. UMB mitigated these autistic-like behaviors induced by MS and attenuated the adverse effects of MS on oxidative stress and MECP2 gene expression in the hippocampus. Conclusion: In conclusion, UMB likely attenuated autistic-like behaviors caused by MS stress, probably, through the reduction of oxidative stress and an increase in MECP2 gene expression.

The Study of Hypoglycemic Activity of 7-Terpenylcoumarins

Natural and synthetic coumarins are often considered privileged scaffolds for obtaining pharmacological agents with hypoglycemic activity. Chemical modification of coumarins often leads to antidiabetic agents with greater efficacy. In the present work, twenty monoterpene-substituted 7-hydroxycoumarins were synthesized. A new approach using the Mitsunobu reaction was shown to be effective for the synthesis of target compounds. All of the synthesized compounds were evaluated in an oral glucose tolerance test, and two of them containing geranyl and (-)-myrtenyl substituents showed in vivo hypoglycemic action. A possible mechanism of action of these compounds may include inhibition of DPP IV, which was proved in an in vitro test.

Therapeutic in vivo synthetic chemistry using an artificial metalloenzyme with glycosylated human serum albumin

The concept of "therapeutic in vivo synthetic chemistry" refers to chemical synthesis in living systems using new-to-nature reactions for the treatment or diagnosis of diseases. This review summarizes our development of therapeutic in vivo synthetic chemistry using glycan-modified human serum albumin (glycoHSA) and utilizing the selective glycan-targeting and metal protective effects of metal catalysts. The four artificial metalloenzymes with glycoHSA provided good cancer treatment results based on on-site drug synthesis and selective cell-tagging strategies. Thus, we propose that therapeutic in vivo synthetic chemistry using glycoHSA as a new modality of therapy or diagnosis is applicable to a wide range of diseases.

Stability Study, Quantification Method and Pharmacokinetics Investigation of a Coumarin-Monoterpene Conjugate Possessing Antiviral Properties against Respiratory Syncytial Virus

The stability of a new coumarin derivative, agent K-142, bearing α-pinene residue and possessing antiviral activity against respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) was studied in whole mice blood in vitro, and a method for its quantification in this matrix was developed and validated. The sample preparation method was precipitation of whole blood with a mixture of 0.2 M ZnSO4 with MeOH (2:8 v/v) containing 2-adamantylamine hydrochloride as an internal standard (IS). Analysis was carried out by HPLC-MS/MS using reversed phase chromatography and a triple quadrupole mass spectrometer 6500 QTRAP (SCIEX) in multiple reaction monitoring (MRM) mode. The transitions 351.2 → 217.1 Da and 152.2 → 93.1/107.2 Da were monitored for K-142 and the IS, respectively. The method was validated in terms of selectivity, calibration curve, LLOQ, accuracy and precision, stability, recovery and carry over. The developed method was used for a pharmacokinetics study of the compound after its oral administration to mice at a dose of 20 mg/kg.

Ferula communis L. (Apiaceae) Root Acetone-Water Extract: Phytochemical Analysis, Cytotoxicity and In Vitro Evaluation of Estrogenic Properties

Ferula communis L. (F. communis) belongs to the Apiaceae family and is a herbaceous plant with various pharmaceutical properties, due to the different contents of bioactive compounds extracted mainly from its roots, as well as its leaves and rhizome. To date, this plant extract has demonstrated estrogenic, anti-inflammatory, antiproliferative, cytotoxic, antimicrobial and anti-neoplastic properties. Its estrogenic activity is justified by the presence of ferutinin, an ester of a sesquiterpenic alcohol that acts as an agonist for estrogen receptors, with a chemical formula equal to C22H3O4. The component present in F. communis responsible for the toxicity of the plant is ferulenol, a prenylated coumarin with the chemical formula C24H30O3. This compound is capable of inducing mortality via its strong anti-coagulant properties, leading to a lethal hemorrhagic syndrome, ferulosis, in animals that feed on a chemotype of F. communis containing a high amount of ferulenol. The removal of the component ferulenol makes extracts of Ferula non-toxic. In fact, the remaining prenylated coumarins are not present in concentrations sufficient to induce toxicity. The intake of high concentrations of the extract of this plant leads a double dose-dependent effect that is typical of sesquiterpenes such as ferutinin. Here, we assessed the cytotoxicity and the estrogenic properties of the F. communis phytocomplex obtained through extraction using a mixture of acetone and water. Among the active constituents of F. communis, the identification of ferutinin and ferulenol was performed using HPLC. The effects of the extract were evaluated, following the removal of ferulenol, on three cell lines: human breast cancer MCF-7, human cervical cancer HeLa and human osteoblastic sarcoma Saos-2. The choice of these cell lines was justified by the need to mimic certain processes which may occur in vivo and which are estrogen-dependent. The obtained results demonstrated that F. communis extract, in addition to possessing an estrogenic-like property, showed a dose-dependent effect. Low concentrations (0.1–0.8 μM) demonstrated a hyperproliferative effect, whereas higher concentrations (1.6–50 μM) were toxic. Therefore, this extract could be an excellent candidate to make up for a reduction or lack of estrogen.

A REVIEW ON ANOMALIN: A NATURAL BIOACTIVE PYRANOCOUMARIN FROM THE PAST TO THE FUTURE

Anomalin is a seselin-type pyranocoumarin isolated for the first time from Angelica anomala Avé-Lal, but is also found in several other plant species, especially in Apiaceae. This lipophilic molecule possesses pharmacologically beneficial activities for human health. The major scientific databases Scopus, Web of Science, Google Scholar, and PubMed up to the end of 2021 and the combining terms anomalin, praeruptorin, isolation, structure elucidation, and biological activity were used in the research of this review. This review focuses on the sources, structural properties, and biological functions of anomalin and provides future trends in the investigation of anomalin, particularly in therapies for many common diseases such as anti-inflammatory and neurodegenerative illnesses. As a potential bioactive molecule, prospective studies on anomalin should be done through supported clinical trials. At the end, this review confirms the significant pharmacological potential of anomalin.

Rassouli F. Combination of Umbelliprenin and Arsenic Trioxide Acts as an Effective Modality Against T-Cell Leukemia/Lymphoma Cells

Adult T-cell leukemia/lymphoma (ATLL) is a serious blood malignancy with distinct geographical distribution. ATLL patients have a short survival time because of intrinsic chemoresistance and severe immunosuppression. To introduce a novel treatment, we investigated whether umbelliprenin (UMB), a natural coumarin derivative, could improve the toxicity of arsenic trioxide (ATO) on ATLL cells. To determine the viability of MT-2 cells upon treatment with different concentrations of UMB and ATO, alamarBlue assay was applied. Cell cycle analysis was carried out by propidium iodide staining and the expression of candidate genes was assessed by quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction. Our findings revealed that combination of UMB and ATO induced considerable cytotoxic effects on ATLL cells. Flow cytometry analysis indicated accumulation of MT-2 cells in the sub G1 phase of the cell cycle after combinatorial treatment. In addition, significant downregulation in BMI-1, CD44, c-MYC, and nuclear factor-κB (REL-A) expression was observed after UMB + ATO administration. Agents with low side effects are potential candidates for novel cancer treatments. We demonstrated, for the first time, that combination of UMB and ATO might be regarded as an effective regimen for ATLL treatment.

Umbelliprenin Increases the M1/M2 Ratio of Macrophage Polarization and Improves the M1 Macrophage Activity in THP-1 Cells Cocultured with AGS Cells

Background

Gastric adenocarcinoma is the fifth most diagnosed malignancy in the world. The immune system consists of a heterogeneous mixture of macrophages that defense the body through phagocytosis and the production of different cytokines and chemokines. Tumors cause macrophages to polarize differently in the manner of their favorite growth and angiogenesis. Umbelliprenin, a natural sesquiterpene coumarin, has been shown to have anticancer properties against some tumors, including gastric adenocarcinoma. The aim of our study was to investigate the effect of umbelliprenin on the polarization of macrophages in addition to the measurement of some of the soluble factors they produce.

Method

The values of IC₅ and IC₅₀ for umbelliprenin in the AGS and THP-1 cells were estimated using the MTT assay. THP-1 cells were treated with 10 μM umbelliprenin, either alone or cocultured with AGS cells. Flow cytometry analysis of treated THP-1 cells was performed for CD68, CD86, and CD206 markers to evaluate M0, M1, and M2 macrophages polarization, respectively. AGS cells were assessed for apoptosis and necrosis by flow cytometry after labeling with Annexin V-FITC and propidium iodide. Interleukin- (IL-) 10 and IL-12 contents were measured in the supernatant by the ELISA method. Griess Reaction assay technique was used to determine nitric oxide (NO) concentration.

Results

The results of the MTT showed lower toxicity of umbelliprenin in THP-1 (IC₅₀ = 75.79) compared to the AGS cell line (IC₅₀ = 48.81). Umbelliprenin significantly increased the M1/M2 ratio. IL-10 content decreased significantly in the supernatant of M1 and M2 cells after umbelliprenin treatment, while IL-12 increased in the supernatant of M1 cells and decreased in the supernatant of the M2 cells. Umbelliprenin caused an increase in the NO in the supernatant of the M1 cells.

Conclusion

Umbelliprenin alters the macrophage's secretions and its phenotypes in favor of tumor suppression.

Ferula asafoetida: chemical composition, thermal behavior, antioxidant and antimicrobial activities of leaf and gum hydroalcoholic extracts

This is the first original study on chemical, thermal, antimicrobial, and antioxidant activity of the leaf and gum hydroethanolic (20:80 v/v) extracts of Ferula asafoetida endemic for Iran. The ratio of solvent to the dried matters was 3:1 (w/w) and after filtering, the solvent was evaporated under vacuum (at 40 °C). Leaf extract contained greater phenolic and flavonoid compounds and thus higher DPPH scavenging and ferric reducing power. Leaf extract constituted high levels of carvacrol (15.40%) and α-bisabolol (9.75%) while in gum extract contained high levels of (Z)-b-ocimene (20.91%) and (E)-1-propenyl-sec-butyl-disulfide (17.62%). Umbelliprenin and ferulic acid were the major phenolic compounds in both extracts. Results of TGA and DSC revealed temperatures below and upper 100 °C and 160 °C as dominant regions of weight loss for gum and leaf extracts, respectively. Minimal inhibitory concentration for Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, Aspergillus niger, and Saccharomyces cerevisiae growth were 62.5, 62.5, 125, 125 mg/l and 400, 300, 50, 300 mg/l of leaf and gum extracts, respectively. Ferula asafoetida extracts can have particular applications in the food industry due to beneficial biological activity.

Next Chapter in the Legend of Silphion: Preliminary Morphological, Chemical, Biological and Pharmacological Evaluations, Initial Conservation Studies, and Reassessment of the Regional Extinction Event

Silphion was an ancient medicinal gum-resin; most likely obtained from a Ferula species growing in the Cyrene region of Libya ca. 2500 years ago. Due to its therapeutic properties and culinary value, silphion became the main economic commodity of the Cyrene region. It is generally believed that the source of silphion became extinct in the first century AD. However, there are a few references in the literature about the cultivated silphion plant and its existence up to the fifth century. Recently, a rare and endemic Ferula species that produces a pleasant-smelling gum-resin was found in three locations near formerly Greek villages in Anatolia. Morphologic features of this species closely resemble silphion, as it appears in the numismatic figures of antique Cyrenaic coins, and conform to descriptions by ancient authors. Initial chemical and pharmacological investigations of this species have confirmed the medicinal and spice-like quality of its gum-resin supporting a connection with the long-lost silphion. A preliminary conservation study has been initiated at the growth site of this rare endemic Ferula species. The results of this study and their implications on the regional extinction event, and future development of this species will be discussed.

Preparation of a Bombyx mori acetylcholinesterase enzyme reagent through chaperone protein disulfide isomerase co-expression strategy in Pichia pastoris for detection of pesticides

The cholinesterase-based spectrophotometric methods for detection of organophosphate pesticides (OPs) and carbamate pesticides (CPs) have been proposed as a good choice for their high efficiency, simplicity and low cost. The enzyme, as a core reagent, is of great importance for the developed method. In this study, a protein disulfide isomerase (PDI) co-expression strategy in Pichia pastoris was employed to enhance the yield of recombinant Bombyx mori acetylcholinesterase 2 (rBmAChE2). Subsequently, the prepared enzyme reagent was used to detect the pesticides in real samples. The results showed that the co-expression of rBmAChE2 with PDI increased the enzyme activity of the supernatant and the yield of purified rBmAChE2 up to 60 U/mL and 6 mg/L respectively, both almost 5-fold higher than those of original recombinant strain. In addition, 5 g/L gelatin reagent could help to preserve nearly 90% of the rBmAChE2 activity for 90 days in 4°C and the limits of detections (LODs) of the rBmAChE2-based assay for 20 kinds of OPs or CPs ranged from 0.010 to 2.725 mg/kg, which were lower than most of indexes present in current Chinese National Standard (GB/T 5009.199-2003) or the maximum residue limits (GB 2763-2019). Furthermore, the detection results of 23 vegetable samples were verified by the ultra-performance liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (UPLC-MS/MS) method, which indicated that the rBmAChE2-based assay in this work is suitable for pesticide residues rapid detection.

Therapeutic mechanism of Toujie Quwen granules in COVID-19 based on network pharmacology

Background

Chinese medicine Toujie Quwen granule (TJQW) has proven to be effective in the treatment of mild coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) cases by relieving symptoms, slowing the progression of the disease, and boosting the recovery of patients. But the bioactive compounds and potential mechanisms of TJQW for COVID-19 prevention and treatment are unclear. This study aimed to explore the potential therapeutic mechanism of TJQW in coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) based on an integrated network pharmacology approach.

Methods

TCMSP were used to search and screen the active ingredients in TJQW. The Swiss TargetPrediction was used to predict the potential targets of active ingredients. Genes co-expressed with ACE2 were considered potential therapeutic targets on COVID-19. Venn diagram was created to show correlative targets of TJQW against COVID-19. Cytoscape was used to construct a “drug-active ingredient-potential target” network, STRING were used to construct protein-protein interaction network, and cytoHubba performed network topology analysis. Enrichment of biological functions and signaling pathways of core targets was performed by using the clusterProfiler package in R software and ClueGO with CluePedia plugins in Cytoscape.

Results

A total of 156 active ingredients were obtained through oral bioavailability and drug-likeness screenings. Two hundred twenty-seven potential targets of TJQW were related to COVID-19. The top ten core targets are EGFR, CASP3, STAT3, ESR1, FPR2, F2, BCL2L1, BDKRB2, MPO, and ACE. Based on that, we obtained 19 key active ingredients: umbelliprenin, quercetin, kaempferol, luteolin, praeruptorin E, stigmasterol, and oroxylin A. And the enrichment analysis obtained multiple related gene ontology functions and signaling pathways. Lastly, we constructed a key network of “drug-component-target-biological process-signaling pathway”. Our findings suggested that TJQW treatment for COVID-19 was associated with elevation of immunity and suppression of inflammatory stress, including regulation of inflammatory response, viral process, neutrophil mediated immunity, PI3K-Akt signaling pathway, MAPK signaling pathway, Jak-STAT signaling pathway, Complement and coagulation cascades, and HIF-1 signaling pathway.

Conclusions

Our study uncovered the pharmacological mechanism underlying TJQW treatment for COVID-19. These results should benefit efforts for people around the world to gain more knowledge about Chinese medicine TJQW in the treatment of this vicious epidemic COVID-19, and help to address this pressing problem currently facing the world.

Umbelliprenin relieves paclitaxel-induced neuropathy

OBJECTIVES

Umbelliprenin (UMB) is a prenylated coumarin that acts as an in vitro antioxidant and inhibits lipoxygenase managing the inflammation pathways, while in vivo it exerts anti-inflammatory activities.

METHODS

In this study, neuropathic pain was induced by four intraperitoneal doses of 2 mg/kg per day of paclitaxel (PTX) on days 1, 3, 5 and 7. Here, 49 male mice were randomly divided in the following groups: sham (not treated animals), negative control (PTX-treated receiving normal saline), single-dose UMB 6.25, 12.5 and 25 mg/kg groups (PTX-treated receiving UMB 6.25, 12.5 and 25 mg/kg, respectively), prevention (PTX-treated receiving PTX along with UMB 12.5 mg/kg on days 1, 3, 5 and 7) and positive control group (PTX-treated receiving imipramine 10 mg/kg as acute treatment). Hot-plate test was done to assess response to heat. Finally, interleukin (IL)-6 levels in the sciatic nerve and lipid peroxidation in sera were assessed.

KEY FINDINGS

Umbelliprenin was found equally effective for acute treatment with imipramine, when comparing the prevention group and the positive control group. Single, 25 mg/kg UMB effectively attenuated hyperalgesia, lipid peroxidation and IL-6 levels.

CONCLUSIONS

Umbelliprenin alleviated neuropathic pain, and decreased serum IL-6 levels and oxidative stress. UMB deserves further investigations, especially in clinical settings.

Umbelliprenin as a novel component of the phytochemical pool from Artemisia spp

Plants belonging to Artemisia spp. are known to biosynthesize a wide panel of 3,3-dimethylallyl- and sesquiterpenyl- substituted coumarins. In this short communication we applied a novel extraction methodology based on the use of subcritical butane under a counter-current mode to further characterize the presence of selected biologically active oxyprenylated phenylpropanoids, namely coumarins and ferulic acid derivatives, in extracts deriving from aerial parts of Artemisia vulgaris L. (commonly known as "common mugwort") (Asteraceae). In the mean time, we assessed the efficiency of the above mentioned extractive methodology with other routes like maceration and ultrasounds and microwaves-based methods using absolute EtOH as the solvents. UHPLC analysis coupled to UV/Vis detection revealed that, among the 5 pure chemical standard assayed, only umbelliprenin (7-farnesyloxycoumarin) was recorded, while boropinic acid, 4'-geranyloxyferulic acid, 7-isopentenyloxycoumarin, and auraptene were not detected. The best extractive yield (0.18 %) was obtained after extaction with subcritical butane. The presence of umbelliprenin in Artemisia plant species has been reported herein for the first time. This coumarin may represent the biosynthetic precursors of sesquiterpenyloxycoumarins with more complex structures typically found in this genus.

Novel nano-vehicle for delivery and efficiency of anticancer auraptene against colon cancer cells

The aim of this study is to devise, prepare and characterize nano encapsulated auraptene (AUR) and evaluate cytotoxic and apoptotic effects on HT-29 colon cancer cells. Herein, AUR nano formulations were prepared by triblock (PCL-PEG-PCL) and pentablock (PLA-PCL-PEG-PCL-PLA) biodegradable copolymers in order to increase AUR bioavailability as an anticancer agent. The preparation of nano particles (NPs) was done with rotor stator homogenization (RSH) and Ultrasonic homogenization (USH) methods. The physicochemical characteristics of prepared nanoparticles (NPs) were studied using HNMR, FTIR, GPC, DLS and SEM techniques. The smaller hydrodynamic size (110 nm) and polydispersity index (PDI: 0.288) as well as higher cellular uptake (89%) were observed in PB NPs rather than TB NPs. The highest cytotoxic and apoptotic effects were observed in AUR loaded PB NPs compared to AUR loaded TB NPs and free AUR obtained by MTT assay, cell cycle arrest, Annexin V-FITC, DAPI staining and RT-PCR techniques. Real time PCR results indicated that Bax /Bcl2 expression ratio as an apoptosis predicting criterion, in free AUR, AUR loaded TB and AUR loaded PB have increased 6, 9 and 13 times, respectively (p value < 0.05). In conclusion, using biodegradable nano-vehicles for sustained delivery of natural anti-cancer compounds may open new perspectives for treatment of cancer patients.

HPLC Analysis and Skin Whitening Effects of Umbelliprenin-containing Extracts of Anethum Graveolens, Pimpinella Anisum, and Ferulago Campestris

Umbelliprenin has recently been shown to have great potential as a skin whitening agent. Wishing to investigate the same effect in plant species known to biosynthesize this coumarin, three plants belonging to the Apiaceae family, namely Anethum graveolens L. (dill), Pimpinella anisum L. (anise), and Ferulago campestris (Besser) Grecescu (field ferula) were screened by HPLC analysis for their respective content of umbelliprenin in extracts obtained with different solvent mixtures and by maceration and ultrasound-assisted processes. EtOH was shown to be the best solvent, providing umbelliprenin yields ranging from 1.7% to 14.4% (with respect to the total amount of extract obtained). Extracts with the highest content of this farnesyloxycoumarin were then assayed as modulators of melanogenesis in cultured murine Melan A cells employing the same umbelliprenin obtained by chemical synthesis as the reference. A parallelism between the content of the coumarin and the recorded depigmenting effect (60% for the EtOH extract of F. campestris as the best value) was revealed for all plants extracts when applied at a dose of 100 μg/mL. Our results demonstrate that the same potential of umbelliprenin can be ascribed also to umbelliprenin-enriched plant extracts which reinforces enforce the widespread use of phyto-preparations for cosmetic purposes (e.g., A. graveolens).

Biomolecular Targets of Oxyprenylated Phenylpropanoids and Polyketides

Oxyprenylated secondary metabolites (e.g. phenylpropanoids and polyketides) represent a rare class of natural compounds. Over the past two decades, this group of phytochemicals has become a topic of intense research activity by several teams worldwide due to their in vitro and in vivo pharmacological activities, and to their great therapeutic and nutraceutical potential for the chemoprevention of acute and chronic diseases affecting humans. Such investigations have provided evidence that oxyprenylated secondary metabolites are able to interact with several biological targets at different levels accounting for their observed anticarcinogenic, anti-inflammatory, neuroprotective, immunomodulatory, antihypertensive, and metabolic effects. The aim of the present contribution is to provide a detailed survey of the so far reported data on the capacities of selected oxyprenylated phenylpropanoids and polyketides to trigger receptors, enzymes, and other types of cellular factors for which they exhibit a high degree of affinity and therefore evoke specific responses. With respect to the rather small amounts of these compounds available from natural sources, their chemical synthesis is also highlighted.

Umbelliprenin shows antitumor, antiangiogenesis, antimetastatic, anti-inflammatory, and immunostimulatory activities in 4T1 tumor-bearing Balb/c mice

Umbelliprenin (UMB) has shown various pharmacological properties in vitro. We investigated the antineoplastic and immunostimulatory effects of UMB in 4T1 mammary-tumor-bearing mice. Two-hundred microliter of UMB (12.5 mg/ml) was intraperitoneally administrated to healthy and tumor-bearing female Balb/c mice for a period of 18 days. Data was analyzed using GraphPad Prism 5 software for Windows (version 5, La Jolla, CA). UMB caused a significant decrease in tumor size (P < 0.01). Serum interferon gamma (IFNγ) was augmented in both healthy and tumor-bearing animals (P < 0.01), and IL-4 declined in healthy animals (P < 0.01) treated with UMB. Expressions of Ki-67, VEGF, CD31, MMP2, MMP9, VCAM1, and NF-κB were significantly decreased in tumors from UMB-treated animals (P < 0.001), whereas E-Cadherin and TNFR1 expressions were markedly increased (P < 0.001). The rates of liver and lung metastases in UMB-administrated animals were smaller compared to the control. UMB can potently inhibit tumor growth, angiogenesis, metastasis, and inflammation and potentiate an antitumor immune response in vivo. However, further investigations are required to evaluate the UMB mechanisms of action in cancerous cells.

Essential Oil Composition, Antioxidant, Anticholinesterase and Anti-tyrosinase Activities of Two Turkish Plant Species: Ferula elaeochytris and Sideritis stricta

The aim of the present study is to characterize chemical compositions and antioxidant, anticholinesterase and anti-tyrosinase activities of Ferula elaeochytris and Sideritis stricta essential oils. The hydrodistilled essential oils were analyzed by GC/FID and GC/MS. A total of thirty-three and twenty-seven compounds representing 99.6 % and 99.4 % were identified in F. elaeochytris and S. stricta, respectively. The main compounds of essential oil of F. elaeochytris were β-cubebene (21.3 %), caryophyllene oxide (17.5 %) and β-caryophyllene (14.9 %), while the major compounds of S. stricta essential oil were δ-cadinene (18.3 %), cubenol (17.6 %) and β-caryophyllene (14.4 %). The antioxidant activity was tested by β-carotene-linoleic acid, DPPH free radical scavenging, ABTS cation radical scavenging, CUPRAC and metal chelating assays. The essential oil of F. elaeochytris showed the highest antioxidant activity in all assays. Also, the anticholinesterase and anti-tyrosinase activities of essential oils were performed against acetylcholinesterase (AChE), butyrylcholinesterase (BChE) and tyrosinase enzymes. F. elaeochytris essential oil indicated the highest anticholinesterase and anti-tyrosinase activities as well. This is the first report describing antioxidant, anticholinesterase and anti-tyrosinase activities of essential oils of F. elaeochytris and S. stricta.

Characterization of the Degradation Profile of Umbelliprenin, a Bioactive Prenylated Coumarin of a Ferulago Species

Umbelliprenin is a secondary plant metabolite that displays promising chemopreventive, anti-inflammatory, and antigenotoxic properties. It possesses potential for applications to human welfare notably to prevent the emergence of cancer. For this purpose, stability studies are needed to define proper storage conditions and adapted formulations for this drug candidate. The identification of degradative products is a major concern for the preclinical development of umbelliprenin, providing also interesting information related to potential original phytochemicals formed in plants exposed to stressors. The stability profile of umbelliprenin under various stress conditions including exposure to heat, light, oxidation, and hydrolytic medium was assessed via HPLC/UV data. The data support that umbelliprenin undergoes inter- and intramolecular [2+2] cycloaddition under light exposure, leading respectively to a cyclobutane-umbelliprenin dimer and a 16-membered macrocycle. Their structures were characterized via MS and NMR data. It was shown that UV-A filters prevent this process, whereas UV-B filters and antioxidants are not or weakly effective. The study provides useful information for the preclinical development of umbelliprenin as an original chemopreventive agent.

Umbelliprenin induced both anti-inflammatory and regulatory cytokines in C57/BL6 mice

Objective(s):

Umbelliprenin is a prenyloxy-coumarin with pharmacologically polyvalent activity. Several studies have shown Several studies have been shown its anti-inflammatory, anti-tumor, antioxidant, and antigenotoxic activities. However, the exact mechanism of action of this compound on the immune response has not yet been shown. Here, we investigated umbelliprenin effects on the predominance of Th1 and Th2 responses in normal C57/BL6 mice.

Materials and Methods:

Umbelliprenin (2.5 mg/200 µl IP) were administered to six C57/BL6 mice every other day for 8 days. Paraffin and PBS-injected mice were enrolled as solvent and control groups, respectively (n=6 mice/group). IL-10, IFN-γ, and IL-4 levels were determined in sera and also in splenocytes culture supernatants in the presence of Con A (3 µg/ml) after 72 hr. H&E staining of paraffin embedded blocks was performed for lung and liver tissues of mice.

Results:

Umbelliprenin could significantly increase the secretion of IFN-γ and IL-4 in sera and IL-10 in splenocytes cultures. Comparison of IFN-γ/IL-4 in the sera and splenocytes culture supernatants showed lower ratios in umbelliprenin treated mice than in solvent and untreated groups.

Conclusion:

The in vivo study showed that umbelliprenin could induce anti-inflammatory responses via the predominance of Th2 cells and some regulatory responses in C57/BL6 mice.

Phytochemistry and pharmacology of Ferula persica Boiss.: A review

Ferula persica, is the well-known species of the genus Ferula in Iran and has two varieties: persica and latisecta. They have both been extensively used in traditional medicine for a wide range of ailments. A great number of chemical compounds including sesquiterpene coumarins and polysulfides have been isolated from this plant. Fresh plant materials, crude extracts and isolated components of F. persica have shown a wide spectrum of pharmacological properties including anti-pigmentation in Serratia marcescens, cytotoxic, antibacterial, anti-fungal, anti-leishmanial, cancer chemopreventive, reversal of multi-drug resistance, anti-inflammatory and lipoxygenase inhibitory activity. The present review summarizes the data available regarding the chemical constituents and biological activities of F. persica.

A facile approach for the synthesis of C13-C24 fragments of maltepolides A, C and D

A linear, chiron approach for the synthesis of C13-C24 fragments of cytostatic maltepolides A, C and D consisting of a tetrahydrofuran subunit and a chiral alkenyl/alkyl substituent is achieved from (+)-diethyl l-tartrate. The other chiral stereocenters were generated by employing key reactions such as Crimmins aldol, alkynylation and CeCl₃·7H₂O mediated Luche reduction reactions.

Natural and Synthetic Coumarins with Effects on Inflammation

In this review, we will present the different aspects of coumarins and derivatives, from natural origins or synthetically prepared, and their action on inflammation. Coumarins and also furo- and pyranocoumarins are found in many different plants. These compounds are very often investigated for antioxidant properties. Other biological properties are also possible and anti-inflammation activity is one of these. As coumarins are also available quite easily via synthesis, natural ones can be prepared this way but derivatives with special substituents are also feasible. A review on the same topic appeared in 2004 and our contribution will take into account everything published since then.

Antiprotozoal and Antiglycation Activities of Sesquiterpene Coumarins from Ferula narthex Exudate

The exudate of Ferula narthex Boiss. (Apiaceae) is widely used in the Indian subcontinent as a spice and because of its health effects. Six sesquiterpene coumarins have been isolated from this exudate: feselol, ligupersin A, asacoumarin A, 8'-O-acetyl-asacoumarin A, 10'R-karatavacinol and 10'R-acetyl-karatavacinol. Based on its use in infectious and diabetic conditions, the isolated constituents were evaluated for antimicrobial and antiglycation activities. Some compounds showed activity against protozoal parasites, asacoumarin A being the most active one against Plasmodium falciparum K1 (IC50 1.3 μM). With regard to antiglycation activity, in the BSA-glucose test, ligupersin A displayed the highest activity (IC50 0.41 mM), being more active than the positive control aminiguanidine (IC50 1.75 mM). In the BSA-MGO assay, the highest activity was shown by 8'-O-acetyl-asacoumarin A (IC50 1.03 mM), being less active than aminoguanidine (IC50 0.15 mM). Hence, the antiglycation activity of the isolated constituents was due to both oxidative and non-oxidative modes of inhibition.

Umbelliprenin is Potentially Toxic Against the HT29, CT26, MCF-7, 4T1, A172, and GL26 Cell Lines, Potentially Harmful Against Bone Marrow-Derived Stem Cells, and Non-Toxic Against Peripheral Blood Mononuclear Cells

BACKGROUND

Resistance to chemotherapy is a growing concern, thus natural anticancer agents are drawing the attention of many scientists and clinicians. One natural anticancer agent, umbelliprenin, is a coumarin produced by many species of Ferula.

OBJECTIVES

We aimed to examine the inhibitory effect of umbelliprenin on human and mouse bone marrow-derived stem cells (BMDSCs), peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs), and different cancer cell lines.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

In this in vitro experimental study, the HT29, CT26, MCF-7, 4T1, A172, and GL26 cancer cells and human and mouse BMDSCs and PBMCs were cultured in RPMI-1640 medium supplemented with 10% fetal bovine serum (FBS), incubated at 37°C for 24 hours in a 5% CO2 atmosphere, and then were treated with different concentrations of umbelliprenin dissolved in dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) (3, 6, 12, 25, 50, 100, and 200 µg/mL) for 24, 48, and 72 hours at 37°C. Each experiment was performed in triplicate. Finally, the cell survival rate was assessed by MTT assay. The IC50 values were calculated based on the log values using GraphPad Prism version 5 software for windows (La Jolla CA, USA) and were expressed as mean ± SEM.

RESULTS

Umbelliprenin inhibited the cancer cells in a concentration-dependent (P < 0.05) but not time-dependent manner (P > 0.05). The most sensitive and resistant cell lines at the 24-hour incubation time were 4T1 (IC50, 30.9 ± 3.1 µg/mL) and A172 (IC50, 51.9 ± 6.7 µg/mL); at the 48-hour incubation time: 4T1 (IC50, 30.6 ± 2.6 µg/mL) and CT26 (IC50, 53.2 ± 3.6 µg/mL); and at the 72-hour incubation time: HT29 (IC50, 37.1 ± 1.4 µg/mL) and 4T1 (IC50, 62.2 ± 4.8 µg/mL). Both human and mouse BMDSCs showed the highest resistance at the 24-hour incubation time (IC50s, 254.7 ± 21 and 204.4 ± 4.5 µg/mL, respectively) and the highest sensitivity at the 72-hour incubation time (IC50s, 120.4 ± 5 and 159.0 ± 7.3 µg/mL, respectively). The PBMCs of both human and mouse origin revealed very strong resistance to the studied concentrations of umbelliprenin (IC50s ranging from 713.5 ± 499.1 to 6651 ± 3670.7 µg/mL).

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings indicate that umbelliprenin exhibits concentration-dependent inhibitory effects on various cell types; it is potentially toxic against the HT29, CT26, MCF-7, 4T1, A172, and GL26 cell lines, potentially harmful against BMDSCs, and non-toxic against PBMCs. Therefore, if our results are approved in the future, umbelliprenin can be an appropriate candidate for developing treatments against different cancers.