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Tong Z, Liu X, Tao Y, Feng P, Luan F, Jie X, Xie Z, Pu F, Xu Z, Wang P. Enhancement of dissolution and oral bioavailability by adjusting microenvironment pH in crocetin ternary solid dispersions: Optimization, characterization, in vitro evaluation, and pharmacokinetics. Drug Deliv Transl Res 2024; 14:1923-1939. [PMID: 38117406 DOI: 10.1007/s13346-023-01497-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/11/2023] [Indexed: 12/21/2023]
Abstract
The most promising active ingredient of Crocus sativus L., crocetin (CCT), has been demonstrated to possess many biological activities. However, only a few studies have been conducted on CCT formulation, especially in oral formulation, mainly due to its insolubility in water, which limits its application for oral administration. This article reports an equilibrium saturation solubility and single-pass intestinal perfusion studies conducted to classify the biopharmaceutics classification system (BCS) of CCT. To enhance in vitro dissolution and in vivo oral bioavailability, ternary solid dispersions of CCT (CCT-SDs) with soluplus (SOL) as hydrophilic carrier and meglumine (MEG) as alkalizer were optimized using response surface methodology (RSM) with central composite design (CCD) experiments. Four different preparation methods were evaluated using the optimal formulation, including solvent evaporation, ball milling, spray drying, and freeze-drying. Prepared formulations were characterized by TG-DSC, FTIR, X-RPD, and SEM; the pharmacokinetic studies were performed in rats after oral administration. The cumulative dissolution rate of CCT-SDs containing SOL and MEG prepared by the ball milling method was 97.1% at 15 min and remained at 95.6% at 480 min, which was significantly higher than that of untreated CCT. The lower crystallinity, smaller particle size, and higher microenvironment pH (pHM) were observed in CCT-SDs prepared by the ball milling method. In vivo absorption of CCT-SDs (Cmax = 52.789 ± 12.441 μg/mL and AUC0-12 = 191.748 ± 35.043 μg/mL·h) was greater than untreated CCT (Cmax = 5.918 ± 1.388 μg/mL and AUC0-12 = 44.309 ± 7.264 μg/mL·h). In conclusion, the current study provides ternary solid dispersion formulation of CCT to increase the in vitro dissolution and in vivo bioavailability, which will benefit the commercial production and future clinical applications of CCT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zheren Tong
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou, 310014, China
| | - Xianyin Liu
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Jiangxi Medical College, Shangrao, 334000, China
| | - Yi Tao
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou, 310014, China
| | - Peishi Feng
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou, 310014, China
| | - Fujia Luan
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Jiangxi Medical College, Shangrao, 334000, China
| | - Xiaolu Jie
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou, 310014, China
| | - Zhangfu Xie
- Zhejiang Suichang Liming Pharmaceutical Co., LTD, Suichang, 323300, China
| | - Faxiang Pu
- Zhejiang Suichang Liming Pharmaceutical Co., LTD, Suichang, 323300, China
| | - Zijin Xu
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Jiangxi Medical College, Shangrao, 334000, China.
| | - Ping Wang
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou, 310014, China.
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Baksh J, Lee D, Mori K, Zhang Y, Torii H, Jeong H, Hou J, Negishi K, Tsubota K, Kurihara T. Myopia Is an Ischemic Eye Condition: A Review from the Perspective of Choroidal Blood Flow. J Clin Med 2024; 13:2777. [PMID: 38792319 PMCID: PMC11122110 DOI: 10.3390/jcm13102777] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2024] [Revised: 05/02/2024] [Accepted: 05/07/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Myopia is a common refractive error that affects a large proportion of the population. Recent studies have revealed that alterations in choroidal thickness (ChT) and choroidal blood flow (ChBF) play important roles in the progression of myopia. Reduced ChBF could affect scleral cellular matrix remodeling, which leads to axial elongation and further myopia progression. As ChT and ChBF could be used as potential biomarkers for the progression of myopia, several recent myopia treatments have targeted alterations in ChT and ChBF. Our review provides a comprehensive overview of the recent literature review on the relationship between ChBF and myopia. We also highlight the importance of ChT and ChBF in the progression of myopia and the potential of ChT as an important biomarker for myopia progression. This summary has significant implications for the development of novel strategies for preventing and treating myopia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiaul Baksh
- Department of Ophthalmology, Keio University School of Medicine, 35 Shinanomachi, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 160-8582, Japan
- Laboratory of Photobiology, Keio University School of Medicine, 35 Shinanomachi, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 160-8582, Japan
| | - Deokho Lee
- Department of Ophthalmology, Keio University School of Medicine, 35 Shinanomachi, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 160-8582, Japan
- Laboratory of Photobiology, Keio University School of Medicine, 35 Shinanomachi, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 160-8582, Japan
| | - Kiwako Mori
- Department of Ophthalmology, Keio University School of Medicine, 35 Shinanomachi, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 160-8582, Japan
- Laboratory of Photobiology, Keio University School of Medicine, 35 Shinanomachi, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 160-8582, Japan
| | - Yan Zhang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Keio University School of Medicine, 35 Shinanomachi, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 160-8582, Japan
- Laboratory of Photobiology, Keio University School of Medicine, 35 Shinanomachi, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 160-8582, Japan
| | - Hidemasa Torii
- Department of Ophthalmology, Keio University School of Medicine, 35 Shinanomachi, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 160-8582, Japan
- Laboratory of Photobiology, Keio University School of Medicine, 35 Shinanomachi, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 160-8582, Japan
| | - Heonuk Jeong
- Department of Ophthalmology, Keio University School of Medicine, 35 Shinanomachi, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 160-8582, Japan
- Laboratory of Photobiology, Keio University School of Medicine, 35 Shinanomachi, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 160-8582, Japan
| | - Jing Hou
- Department of Ophthalmology, Keio University School of Medicine, 35 Shinanomachi, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 160-8582, Japan
- Laboratory of Photobiology, Keio University School of Medicine, 35 Shinanomachi, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 160-8582, Japan
| | - Kazuno Negishi
- Department of Ophthalmology, Keio University School of Medicine, 35 Shinanomachi, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 160-8582, Japan
| | - Kazuo Tsubota
- Tsubota Laboratory, Inc., 34 Shinanomachi, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 160-0016, Japan
| | - Toshihide Kurihara
- Department of Ophthalmology, Keio University School of Medicine, 35 Shinanomachi, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 160-8582, Japan
- Laboratory of Photobiology, Keio University School of Medicine, 35 Shinanomachi, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 160-8582, Japan
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Liu C, Wang L, Zhou Y, Xia W, Wang Z, Kuang L, Hua D. Biogenic crocetin-crosslinked chitosan nanoparticles with high stability and drug loading for efficient radioprotection. Int J Biol Macromol 2024; 265:130756. [PMID: 38462118 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2024.130756] [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: 12/12/2023] [Revised: 02/20/2024] [Accepted: 03/07/2024] [Indexed: 03/12/2024]
Abstract
The risk of radiation exposure increases with the development of nuclear energy and technology, and radiation protection receives more and more attention from public health and safety. However, the numerous adverse effects and low drug utilization limit the practical applications of radioprotective agents. In this study, we developed a biogenic crocetin-crosslinked chitosan nanoparticle with high stability and drug loading for efficient radioprotection. In detail, the nanoparticles were prepared using the natural antioxidant crocetin as a cross-linking reagent in amidation reactions of chitosan and mPEG-COOH. The nanoparticles exhibit a quick scavenging ability for common reactive oxygen species and reactive nitrogen in vitro. Meanwhile, cellular experiments demonstrate the good biocompatibility of the nanoparticles and the alleviation of radiation damage by scavenging reactive oxygen species, reducing apoptosis, and inhibiting DNA damage, etc. Importantly, the nanoparticles are effective in mitigating oxidative damage in major organs and maintaining peripheral blood cell content. In addition, they perform better radioprotective properties than free drug due to the significant extension of the blood half-life of crocetin in vivo from 10 min to 5 h. This work proposes a drug-crosslinking strategy for the design of a highly efficient radioprotective agent, which exhibits a promising prospect in the fields of nuclear emergency and public health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chang Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Radiation Medicine and Protection, School for Radiological and Interdisciplinary Sciences (RAD-X), Collaborative Innovation Center of Radiological Medicine of Jiangsu Higher Education Institutions, Soochow University, Suzhou 215123, China
| | - Lu Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Radiation Medicine and Protection, School for Radiological and Interdisciplinary Sciences (RAD-X), Collaborative Innovation Center of Radiological Medicine of Jiangsu Higher Education Institutions, Soochow University, Suzhou 215123, China
| | - Yi Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Radiation Medicine and Protection, School for Radiological and Interdisciplinary Sciences (RAD-X), Collaborative Innovation Center of Radiological Medicine of Jiangsu Higher Education Institutions, Soochow University, Suzhou 215123, China
| | - Wanyi Xia
- The First Clinical Medical College, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, China
| | - Ziyu Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Radiation Medicine and Protection, School for Radiological and Interdisciplinary Sciences (RAD-X), Collaborative Innovation Center of Radiological Medicine of Jiangsu Higher Education Institutions, Soochow University, Suzhou 215123, China.
| | - Liangju Kuang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Schepens Eye Research Institute of Massachusetts Eye & Ear, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114, USA.
| | - Daoben Hua
- State Key Laboratory of Radiation Medicine and Protection, School for Radiological and Interdisciplinary Sciences (RAD-X), Collaborative Innovation Center of Radiological Medicine of Jiangsu Higher Education Institutions, Soochow University, Suzhou 215123, China.
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Cimas FJ, De la Cruz-Morcillo MÁ, Cifuentes C, Moratalla-López N, Alonso GL, Nava E, Llorens S. Effect of Crocetin on Basal Lipolysis in 3T3-L1 Adipocytes. Antioxidants (Basel) 2023; 12:1254. [PMID: 37371984 DOI: 10.3390/antiox12061254] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2023] [Revised: 06/08/2023] [Accepted: 06/10/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Crocetin (CCT) is a natural saffron-derived apocarotenoid that possesses healthy properties such as anti-adipogenic, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant activities. Lipolysis is enhanced in obesity and correlates with a pro-inflammatory, pro-oxidant state. In this context, we aimed to investigate whether CCT affects lipolysis. To evaluate CCT's possible lipolytic effect, 3T3-L1 adipocytes were treated with CCT10μM at day 5 post-differentiation. Glycerol content and antioxidant activity were assessed using colorimetric assays. Gene expression was measured using qRT-PCR to evaluate the effect of CCT on key lipolytic enzymes and on nitric oxide synthase (NOS) expression. Total lipid accumulation was assessed using Oil Red O staining. CCT10μM decreased glycerol release from 3T3-L1 adipocytes and downregulated adipose tissue triglyceride lipase (ATGL) and perilipin-1, but not hormone-sensitive lipase (HSL), suggesting an anti-lipolytic effect. CCT increased catalase (CAT) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity, thus showing an antioxidant effect. In addition, CCT exhibited an anti-inflammatory profile, i.e., diminished inducible NOS (NOS2) and resistin expression, while enhanced the expression of adiponectin. CCT10μM also decreased intracellular fat and C/EBPα expression (a transcription factor involved in adipogenesis), thus revealing an anti-adipogenic effect. These findings point to CCT as a promising biocompound for improving lipid mobilisation in obesity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francisco J Cimas
- Mecenazgo COVID-19, Regional Center for Biomedical Research (CRIB), University of Castilla-La Mancha (UCLM), 02008 Albacete, Spain
| | - Miguel Ángel De la Cruz-Morcillo
- Food Quality Research Group, Institute for Regional Development (IDR), Campus Universitario s/n, University of Castilla-La Mancha (UCLM), 02071 Albacete, Spain
| | - Carmen Cifuentes
- Regional Center for Biomedical Research (CRIB), Department of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine of Albacete, University of Castilla-La Mancha (UCLM), 02008 Albacete, Spain
| | - Natalia Moratalla-López
- Cátedra de Química Agrícola, Higher Technical School of Agronomic and Forestry Engineering and Biotechnology (ETSIAMB), University of Castilla-La Mancha (UCLM), Campus Universitario, 02006 Albacete, Spain
| | - Gonzalo L Alonso
- Cátedra de Química Agrícola, Higher Technical School of Agronomic and Forestry Engineering and Biotechnology (ETSIAMB), University of Castilla-La Mancha (UCLM), Campus Universitario, 02006 Albacete, Spain
| | - Eduardo Nava
- Regional Center for Biomedical Research (CRIB), Department of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine of Albacete, University of Castilla-La Mancha (UCLM), 02008 Albacete, Spain
| | - Sílvia Llorens
- Regional Center for Biomedical Research (CRIB), Department of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine of Albacete, University of Castilla-La Mancha (UCLM), 02008 Albacete, Spain
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Aissa R, Ibourki M, Ait Bouzid H, Bijla L, Oubannin S, Sakar EH, Jadouali S, Hermansyah A, Goh KW, Ming LC, Bouyahya A, Gharby S. Phytochemistry, quality control and medicinal uses of Saffron ( Crocus sativus L.): an updated review. J Med Life 2023; 16:822-836. [PMID: 37675158 PMCID: PMC10478662 DOI: 10.25122/jml-2022-0353] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2023] [Accepted: 04/17/2023] [Indexed: 09/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Saffron, botanically known as Crocus sativus L., is renowned as the world's most expensive spice and has been utilized in various fields since ancient times. Extensive scientific research has been conducted on Crocus sativus (C. sativus), focusing on its phytochemical composition, diverse applications, and biological activities. C. sativus phytochemicals consist mainly of three compounds, namely crocin, picrocrocin, and safranal, which are responsible for most of its properties. Saffron is rich in bioactive compounds, more than 150 of which have been isolated. Owing to its unique composition and properties, saffron is used in various fields, such as the food industry, perfumery, cosmetics, pharmaceutics, and medicine. However, the high economic value of saffron makes it susceptible to adulteration and various fraudulent practices. To deal with this issue, a number of methods and techniques have been developed to authenticate and determine adulterants in saffron. This paper presents a bibliometric study of saffron based on the Web of Science database, analyzing 3,735 studies published between 2000 and 2021. The study also examined author participation and collaboration networks among countries. Production, transformation, chemical composition, methods of adulteration detection, uses, and health properties of saffron are also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rabha Aissa
- Department of Bio-Industrial Engineering & Environment, Bioprocesses and Environment Team, Superior School of Technology, Ibn Zohr University, Agadir, Morocco
| | - Mohamed Ibourki
- Biotechnology, Analytical Sciences and Quality Control Team, Laboratory of Analysis Modeling, Engineering, Natural Substances and Environment, Polydisciplinary Faculty of Taroudant, University Ibn Zohr, Agadir, Morocco
| | - Hasna Ait Bouzid
- Biotechnology, Analytical Sciences and Quality Control Team, Laboratory of Analysis Modeling, Engineering, Natural Substances and Environment, Polydisciplinary Faculty of Taroudant, University Ibn Zohr, Agadir, Morocco
| | - Laila Bijla
- Biotechnology, Analytical Sciences and Quality Control Team, Laboratory of Analysis Modeling, Engineering, Natural Substances and Environment, Polydisciplinary Faculty of Taroudant, University Ibn Zohr, Agadir, Morocco
| | - Samira Oubannin
- Biotechnology, Analytical Sciences and Quality Control Team, Laboratory of Analysis Modeling, Engineering, Natural Substances and Environment, Polydisciplinary Faculty of Taroudant, University Ibn Zohr, Agadir, Morocco
| | - El Hassan Sakar
- Laboratory of Biology, Ecology, and Health, Faculty of Sciences, Abdelmalek Essaadi University, Tetouan, Morocco
| | - Simohamed Jadouali
- Laboratory of Biotechnology, Bioanalysis and Bioinformatics, Superior School of Technology, Sultan Moulay Slimane University, Khenifra, Morocco
| | - Andi Hermansyah
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, Faculty of Pharmacy, Universitas Airlangga, Surabaya, Indonesia
| | - Khang Wen Goh
- Faculty of Data Science and Information Technology, INTI International University, Nilai, Malaysia
| | - Long Chiau Ming
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, Faculty of Pharmacy, Universitas Airlangga, Surabaya, Indonesia
- School of Medical and Life Sciences, Sunway University, Sunway City, Malaysia
- PAPRSB Institute of Health Sciences, Universiti Brunei Darussalam, Gadong, Brunei Darussalam
| | - Abdelhakim Bouyahya
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, Mohammed V University, Rabat, Morocco
| | - Said Gharby
- Biotechnology, Analytical Sciences and Quality Control Team, Laboratory of Analysis Modeling, Engineering, Natural Substances and Environment, Polydisciplinary Faculty of Taroudant, University Ibn Zohr, Agadir, Morocco
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Effect of 8 Weeks Aerobic Training and Saffron Supplementation on Inflammation and Metabolism in Middle-Aged Obese Women with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus. Sports (Basel) 2022; 10:sports10110167. [PMID: 36355818 PMCID: PMC9697862 DOI: 10.3390/sports10110167] [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: 08/03/2022] [Revised: 10/04/2022] [Accepted: 10/27/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: This study aimed to investigate the effects of 8-week aerobic training (AT) and saffron supplementation on inflammation and metabolism in middle-aged obese women with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Methods: Thirty-two obese women with T2DM were randomly divided into four groups (n = 8 in all groups): saffron + training (ST), placebo + training (PT), saffron supplementation (SS), and placebo (P). The ST and PT groups performed eight weeks of aerobic training (AT) (three sessions/week at 60−75% HRmax). A daily dose of 400 mg saffron powder was consumed by the ST and SS groups for 8 weeks. Blood samples were taken after 12 h of fasting, 48 h before the first AT session, 48 h and two weeks after the last AT session. Results: AT, saffron supplementation, and their combination affected body mass index (BMI), homeostatic model assessment for insulin resistance (HOMA-IR), and serum levels of insulin, adiponectin, interleukin-6 (IL-6), high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), cholesterol, and triglyceride (TG) (p < 0.05). However, body weight, body fat percentage, and serum levels of glucose, resistin, tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), irisin, and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) showed significant changes in the ST group only (p < 0.05). In addition, a significant difference was seen between all factors in post-training and follow-up in the ST group (p < 0.05). Conclusions: Saffron supplementation at a dose of 400 mg/day, when combined with AT, could improve inflammation, metabolism, glycemic status, and lipid profile in T2DM patients, and these changes are sustainable at up to 2 weeks of detraining.
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Avila-Sosa R, Nevárez-Moorillón GV, Ochoa-Velasco CE, Navarro-Cruz AR, Hernández-Carranza P, Cid-Pérez TS. Detection of Saffron’s Main Bioactive Compounds and Their Relationship with Commercial Quality. Foods 2022. [PMCID: PMC9601577 DOI: 10.3390/foods11203245] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
This review aims to evaluate the state of saffron’s main bioactive compounds and their relationship with its commercial quality. Saffron is the commercial name for the dried red stigmas of the Crocus sativus L. flower. It owes its sensory and functional properties mainly to the presence of its carotenoid derivatives, synthesized throughout flowering and also during the whole production process. These compounds include crocin, crocetin, picrocrocin, and safranal, which are bioactive metabolites. Saffron’s commercial value is determined according to the ISO/TS3632 standard that determines their main apocatotenoids. Other techniques such as chromatography (gas and liquid) are used to detect the apocarotenoids. This, together with the determination of spectral fingerprinting or chemo typing are essential for saffron identification. The determination of the specific chemical markers coupled with chemometric methods favors the discrimination of adulterated samples, possible plants, or adulterating compounds and even the concentrations at which these are obtained. Chemical characterization and concentration of various compounds could be affected by saffron’s geographical origin and harvest/postharvest characteristics. The large number of chemical compounds found in the by-products (flower parts) of saffron (catechin, quercetin, delphinidin, etc.) make it an interesting aromatic spice as a colorant, antioxidant, and source of phytochemicals, which can also bring additional economic value to the most expensive aromatic species in the world.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raul Avila-Sosa
- Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Benemérita Universidad Autónoma de Puebla, Edificio 105E, 14 Sur y Av. San Claudio, Ciudad Universitaria, Col. San Manuel, Puebla 72420, Mexico
| | | | - Carlos Enrique Ochoa-Velasco
- Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Benemérita Universidad Autónoma de Puebla, Edificio 105E, 14 Sur y Av. San Claudio, Ciudad Universitaria, Col. San Manuel, Puebla 72420, Mexico
| | - Addí Rhode Navarro-Cruz
- Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Benemérita Universidad Autónoma de Puebla, Edificio 105E, 14 Sur y Av. San Claudio, Ciudad Universitaria, Col. San Manuel, Puebla 72420, Mexico
| | - Paola Hernández-Carranza
- Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Benemérita Universidad Autónoma de Puebla, Edificio 105E, 14 Sur y Av. San Claudio, Ciudad Universitaria, Col. San Manuel, Puebla 72420, Mexico
| | - Teresa Soledad Cid-Pérez
- Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Benemérita Universidad Autónoma de Puebla, Edificio 105E, 14 Sur y Av. San Claudio, Ciudad Universitaria, Col. San Manuel, Puebla 72420, Mexico
- Correspondence:
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MEDORI MARIACHIARA, NAUREEN ZAKIRA, DHULI KRISTJANA, PLACIDI GIORGIO, FALSINI BENEDETTO, BERTELLI MATTEO. Dietary supplements in retinal diseases, glaucoma, and other ocular conditions. JOURNAL OF PREVENTIVE MEDICINE AND HYGIENE 2022; 63:E189-E199. [PMID: 36479474 PMCID: PMC9710404 DOI: 10.15167/2421-4248/jpmh2022.63.2s3.2760] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
Environmental pollution, inadequate eating habits and unhealthy lifestyles have led to a tremendous increase in ocular diseases worldwide. Given the costly treatments that are currently available for the most common and threatening eye diseases (such as cataract, dry eye disorder, or diabetic retinopathy), curing these diseases or preventing refractive errors by taking nutraceuticals and natural compounds that are present in our daily diet is a very valuable intervention. The eyes are the most important part of our visual system and require micronutrients such as vitamins, carotenoids, trace metals, and omega-3 fatty acids in order to function properly and to protect themselves against light-induced and age-mediated degenerative disorders. The Mediterranean Diet (MedDiet) has been in the limelight since the 1980s because of the several health benefits it provides, including eye health. MedDiet is characterized by the consumption of small amounts of red meat, while emphasizing the intake of fish, eggs, nuts, legumes, citrus fruits, green vegetables, olives and their derivatives, especially olive oil, and dairy products in a proportionate manner, in order to achieve the maximum health benefits. The antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and neuroprotective properties of these foods - both when used as an ingredient in the dietary regime or as a source of nutritional supplements - have shown promising results in the management of chronic degenerative ocular diseases, both in animal models and in human subjects. In this chapter, we will focus on the importance of MedDiet and natural compounds for the visual system and its role in slowing down age-related ocular degeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- MARIA CHIARA MEDORI
- MAGI’S LAB, Rovereto (TN), Italy
- Correspondence: Maria Chiara Medori, MAGI’S LAB, Rovereto (TN), 38068, Italy. E-mail:
| | | | | | - GIORGIO PLACIDI
- Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy
- UOC Oftalmologia, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - BENEDETTO FALSINI
- Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy
- UOC Oftalmologia, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - MATTEO BERTELLI
- MAGI’S LAB, Rovereto (TN), Italy
- MAGI Euregio, Bolzano, Italy
- MAGISNAT, Peachtree Corners (GA), USA
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Review of Evidence for the Usage of Antioxidants for Eye Aging. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2022; 2022:5810373. [PMID: 36225983 PMCID: PMC9550496 DOI: 10.1155/2022/5810373] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2021] [Revised: 06/15/2022] [Accepted: 09/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Oxidative stress is one of the common factors leading to age-related eye diseases in older adults. Factors such as high oxygen consumption, high concentration of polyunsaturated fatty acids, and cumulative exposure to high-energy visible light in the eyes, lead to excessive generation of reactive oxygen species, hence triggering apoptosis of ocular cells and giving rise to ophthalmic diseases. Dietary supplements such as carotenoids, anthocyanins, and vitamins have antioxidant properties which may be of benefit in retaining better vision or reversing vision impairment; thus, studies have been conducted to understand the role of dietary supplements in the treatment or prevention of ophthalmic diseases. While high concentration of carotenoids such as lutein and zeaxanthin decrease the risk of developing age-related macular disease, anthocyanins and vitamins play a role in the treatment and prevention of other ophthalmic diseases: saffron extract reduced intraocular pressure in glaucoma patients; bilberry extract prevented impairments in lenses and retina, as well as alleviate symptoms of dry eye disease; high concentration of beta-carotene may reduce the risk of developing cataract. Further studies with clinical measurements are required to investigate the effectiveness of antioxidants on visual function and ophthalmic diseases.
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Madikyzy M, Tilegen M, Nazarbek G, Mu C, Kutzhanova A, Li X, Ma C, Xie Y. Honghua extract mediated potent inhibition of COVID-19 host cell pathways. Sci Rep 2022; 12:14296. [PMID: 35995784 PMCID: PMC9395372 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-15338-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2021] [Accepted: 06/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
Honghua (Carthami flos) and Xihonghua (Croci stigma) have been used in anti-COVID-19 as Traditional Chinese Medicine, but the mechanism is unclear. In this study, we applied network pharmacology by analysis of active compounds and compound-targets networks, enzyme kinetics assay, signaling pathway analysis and investigated the potential mechanisms of anti-COVID-19. We found that both herbs act on signaling including kinases, response to inflammation and virus. Moreover, crocin likely has an antiviral effect due to its high affinity towards the human ACE2 receptor by simulation. The extract of Honghua and Xihonghua exhibited nanozyme/herbzyme activity of alkaline phosphatase, with distinct fluorescence. Thus, our data suggest the great potential of Honghua in the development of anti-COVID-19 agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Malika Madikyzy
- Department of Biology, School of Sciences and Humanities, Nazarbayev University, 53 Kabanbay Batyr Ave, 010000, Nur-Sultan, Republic of Kazakhstan
| | - Meruyert Tilegen
- Department of Biology, School of Sciences and Humanities, Nazarbayev University, 53 Kabanbay Batyr Ave, 010000, Nur-Sultan, Republic of Kazakhstan
| | - Guldan Nazarbek
- Department of Biology, School of Sciences and Humanities, Nazarbayev University, 53 Kabanbay Batyr Ave, 010000, Nur-Sultan, Republic of Kazakhstan
| | - Chenglin Mu
- Sino-German Joint Research Center on Agricultural Biology, State Key Laboratory of Crop Biology, College of Life Sciences, Shandong Agricultural University, Tai'an, 271018, China
- Zhejiang University-Hangzhou Global Scientific and Technological Innovation Center, Hangzhou, China
| | - Aidana Kutzhanova
- Department of Biology, School of Sciences and Humanities, Nazarbayev University, 53 Kabanbay Batyr Ave, 010000, Nur-Sultan, Republic of Kazakhstan
| | - Xugang Li
- Sino-German Joint Research Center on Agricultural Biology, State Key Laboratory of Crop Biology, College of Life Sciences, Shandong Agricultural University, Tai'an, 271018, China
| | - Cuiping Ma
- Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Biochemical Engineering, Qingdao Nucleic Acid Rapid Detection Engineering Research Center, College of Marine Science and Biological Engineering, Qingdao University of Science and Technology, Qingdao, 266042, China
| | - Yingqiu Xie
- Department of Biology, School of Sciences and Humanities, Nazarbayev University, 53 Kabanbay Batyr Ave, 010000, Nur-Sultan, Republic of Kazakhstan.
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11
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Shahbaz K, Chang D, Zhou X, Low M, Seto SW, Li CG. Crocins for Ischemic Stroke: A Review of Current Evidence. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:825842. [PMID: 35991882 PMCID: PMC9388830 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.825842] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2021] [Accepted: 04/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Crocins (CRs) and the related active constituents derived from Crocus sativus L. (Saffron) have demonstrated protective effects against cerebral ischemia and ischemic stroke, with various bioactivities including neuroprotection, anti-neuroinflammation, antioxidant, and cardiovascular protection. Among CRs, crocin (CR) has been shown to act on multiple mechanisms and signaling pathways involved in ischemic stroke, including mitochondrial apoptosis, nuclear factor kappa light chain enhancer of B cells pathway, S100 calcium-binding protein B, interleukin-6 and vascular endothelial growth factor-A. CR is generally safe and well-tolerated. Pharmacokinetic studies indicate that CR has poor bioavailability and needs to convert to crocetin (CC) in order to cross the blood-brain barrier. Clinical studies have shown the efficacy of saffron and CR in treating various conditions, including metabolic syndrome, depression, Alzheimer’s disease, and coronary artery disease. There is evidence supporting CR as a treatment for ischemic stroke, although further studies are needed to confirm their efficacy and safety in clinical settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kiran Shahbaz
- NICM Health Research Institute, Western Sydney University, Penrith, NSW, Australia
- *Correspondence: Kiran Shahbaz, ; Chung Guang Li,
| | - Dennis Chang
- NICM Health Research Institute, Western Sydney University, Penrith, NSW, Australia
| | - Xian Zhou
- NICM Health Research Institute, Western Sydney University, Penrith, NSW, Australia
| | - Mitchell Low
- NICM Health Research Institute, Western Sydney University, Penrith, NSW, Australia
| | - Sai Wang Seto
- NICM Health Research Institute, Western Sydney University, Penrith, NSW, Australia
- Reserach Centre for Chinese Medicine Innovation, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, China
- Department of Applied Biology and Chemical Technology, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Chung Guang Li
- NICM Health Research Institute, Western Sydney University, Penrith, NSW, Australia
- *Correspondence: Kiran Shahbaz, ; Chung Guang Li,
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12
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Guo H, Ruan C, Zhan X, Pan H, Luo Y, Gao K. Crocetin Protected Human Hepatocyte LO2 Cell From TGF-β-Induced Oxygen Stress and Apoptosis but Promoted Proliferation and Autophagy via AMPK/m-TOR Pathway. Front Public Health 2022; 10:909125. [PMID: 35836988 PMCID: PMC9273739 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2022.909125] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2022] [Accepted: 05/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective To investigate the protective effects of crocetin against transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β)—induced injury in LO2 cells. Methods Human hepatocyte LO2 cells were pre-treated with crocetin (10 μM) for 6, 12, and 24 h, and then induced by TGF-β. Proliferation, oxidative stress, apoptosis, autophagy, and related proteins were assessed. Results Crocetin pre-treating promoted proliferation but suppressed apoptosis in TGF-β-induced LO2 cells. Crocetin protected LO2 cells from TGF-β-induced inflammation and oxygen stress by reducing reactive oxygen species (ROS) and malondialdehyde (MDA) but enhancing superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione (GSH). Autophagy was suppressed in TGF-β but crocetin promoted autophagy in LO2 cells by mediating Adenosine 5'-monophosphate—activated protein kinase (AMPK)/mammalian target of rapamycin (m-TOR) signaling pathway via upregulating p-AMPK and p-Beclin-1 but downregulating p-mTOR. Conclusions Crocetin protected LO2 cells from TGF-β-induced damage by promoting proliferation and autophagy, and suppressing apoptosis and anti-inflammation via regulation of AMPK/m-TOR signaling pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongxing Guo
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Fifth Affiliated Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Chenyu Ruan
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Fifth Affiliated Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xiuhong Zhan
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Fifth Affiliated Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Hao Pan
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Fifth Affiliated Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yumei Luo
- Department of Gastroenterology, The Fifth Affiliated Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Ke Gao
- Department of Pathology, Foshan Fosun Chancheng Hospital, Foshan, China
- *Correspondence: Ke Gao
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13
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Pinilla I, Maneu V, Campello L, Fernández-Sánchez L, Martínez-Gil N, Kutsyr O, Sánchez-Sáez X, Sánchez-Castillo C, Lax P, Cuenca N. Inherited Retinal Dystrophies: Role of Oxidative Stress and Inflammation in Their Physiopathology and Therapeutic Implications. Antioxidants (Basel) 2022; 11:antiox11061086. [PMID: 35739983 PMCID: PMC9219848 DOI: 10.3390/antiox11061086] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2022] [Revised: 05/24/2022] [Accepted: 05/26/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Inherited retinal dystrophies (IRDs) are a large group of genetically and clinically heterogeneous diseases characterized by the progressive degeneration of the retina, ultimately leading to loss of visual function. Oxidative stress and inflammation play fundamental roles in the physiopathology of these diseases. Photoreceptor cell death induces an inflammatory state in the retina. The activation of several molecular pathways triggers different cellular responses to injury, including the activation of microglia to eliminate debris and recruit inflammatory cells from circulation. Therapeutical options for IRDs are currently limited, although a small number of patients have been successfully treated by gene therapy. Many other therapeutic strategies are being pursued to mitigate the deleterious effects of IRDs associated with oxidative metabolism and/or inflammation, including inhibiting reactive oxygen species’ accumulation and inflammatory responses, and blocking autophagy. Several compounds are being tested in clinical trials, generating great expectations for their implementation. The present review discusses the main death mechanisms that occur in IRDs and the latest therapies that are under investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isabel Pinilla
- Aragón Health Research Institute (IIS Aragón), 50009 Zaragoza, Spain
- Department of Ophthalmology, Lozano Blesa, University Hospital, 50009 Zaragoza, Spain
- Department of Surgery, University of Zaragoza, 50009 Zaragoza, Spain
- Correspondence: (I.P.); (V.M.)
| | - Victoria Maneu
- Department of Optics, Pharmacology and Anatomy, University of Alicante, 03690 Alicante, Spain;
- Alicante Institute for Health and Biomedical Research (ISABIAL), 03010 Alicante, Spain; (P.L.); (N.C.)
- Correspondence: (I.P.); (V.M.)
| | - Laura Campello
- Department of Physiology, Genetics and Microbiology, University of Alicante, 03690 Alicante, Spain; (L.C.); (N.M.-G.); (O.K.); (X.S.-S.); (C.S.-C.)
| | - Laura Fernández-Sánchez
- Department of Optics, Pharmacology and Anatomy, University of Alicante, 03690 Alicante, Spain;
| | - Natalia Martínez-Gil
- Department of Physiology, Genetics and Microbiology, University of Alicante, 03690 Alicante, Spain; (L.C.); (N.M.-G.); (O.K.); (X.S.-S.); (C.S.-C.)
| | - Oksana Kutsyr
- Department of Physiology, Genetics and Microbiology, University of Alicante, 03690 Alicante, Spain; (L.C.); (N.M.-G.); (O.K.); (X.S.-S.); (C.S.-C.)
| | - Xavier Sánchez-Sáez
- Department of Physiology, Genetics and Microbiology, University of Alicante, 03690 Alicante, Spain; (L.C.); (N.M.-G.); (O.K.); (X.S.-S.); (C.S.-C.)
| | - Carla Sánchez-Castillo
- Department of Physiology, Genetics and Microbiology, University of Alicante, 03690 Alicante, Spain; (L.C.); (N.M.-G.); (O.K.); (X.S.-S.); (C.S.-C.)
| | - Pedro Lax
- Alicante Institute for Health and Biomedical Research (ISABIAL), 03010 Alicante, Spain; (P.L.); (N.C.)
- Department of Physiology, Genetics and Microbiology, University of Alicante, 03690 Alicante, Spain; (L.C.); (N.M.-G.); (O.K.); (X.S.-S.); (C.S.-C.)
| | - Nicolás Cuenca
- Alicante Institute for Health and Biomedical Research (ISABIAL), 03010 Alicante, Spain; (P.L.); (N.C.)
- Department of Physiology, Genetics and Microbiology, University of Alicante, 03690 Alicante, Spain; (L.C.); (N.M.-G.); (O.K.); (X.S.-S.); (C.S.-C.)
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14
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An In Vitro Study of Saffron Carotenoids: The Effect of Crocin Extracts and Dimethylcrocetin on Cancer Cell Lines. Antioxidants (Basel) 2022; 11:antiox11061074. [PMID: 35739971 PMCID: PMC9220052 DOI: 10.3390/antiox11061074] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2022] [Revised: 05/17/2022] [Accepted: 05/24/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Crocus sativus L. has various pharmacological properties, known for over 3600 years. These properties are attributed mainly to biologically active substances, which belong to the terpenoid group and include crocins, picrocrocin and safranal. The aim of the current work was to examine the effects of crocins (CRCs) and their methyl ester derivate dimethylcrocetin (DMCRT) on glioblastoma and rhabdomyosarcoma cell lines, in terms of cytotoxicity and gene expression, implicated in proapoptotic and cell survival pathways. Cell cytotoxicity was assessed with Alamar Blue fluorescence assay after treatment with saffron carotenoids for 24, 48 and 72 h and concentrations ranging from 22.85 to 0.18 mg/mL for CRCs and 11.43 to 0.09 mg/mL for DMCRT. In addition, BAX, BID, BCL2, MYCN, SOD1, and GSTM1 gene expression was studied by qRT-PCR analysis. Both compounds demonstrated cytotoxic effects against glioblastoma and rhabdomyosarcoma cell lines, in a dose- and time-dependent manner. They induced apoptosis, via BAX and BID upregulation, MYCN and BCL-2, SOD1, GSTM1 downregulation. The current research denotes the possible anticancer properties of saffron carotenoids, which are considered safe phytochemicals, already tested in clinical trials for their health promoting properties.
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15
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Crocetin Prolongs Recovery Period of DSS-Induced Colitis via Altering Intestinal Microbiome and Increasing Intestinal Permeability. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23073832. [PMID: 35409192 PMCID: PMC8998954 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23073832] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2022] [Revised: 03/24/2022] [Accepted: 03/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Crocetin is one of the major active constituents of saffron (Crocus sativus L.) which has a reputation for facilitating blood circulation and dispersing blood stasis in traditional Chinese medicine. However, there is little evidence showing the relationship between crocetin intake and the risk of gastrointestinal diseases such as colitis. In order to investigate the effect of crocetin on the regulation of intestinal barrier function and intestinal microbiota composition, mice were treated with crocetin after 3% dextran sulfate sodium (DSS) administration for one week. We found that crocetin intake at 10 mg/kg aggravated colitis in mice, showing increased weight loss and more serious histological abnormalities compared with the DSS group. The 16s rDNA sequencing analysis of the feces samples showed that mice treated with 10 mg/kg crocetin had lower species diversity and richness than those treated with DSS. At the genus level, a higher abundance of Akkermansia and Mediterraneibacter, and a lower abundance of Muribaculaceae, Dubosiella, Paramuribaculum, Parasutterella, Allobaculum, Duncaniella, Candidatus Stoquefichus, and Coriobacteriaceae UCG-002 were observed in the crocetin group. Untargeted metabolomic analyses revealed that crocetin reduced the levels of primary and secondary bile acids such as 12-ketodeoxycholic acid, 7-ketodeoxycholic acid, 3-sulfodeoxycholic acid, 6-ethylchenodeoxycholic acid, chenodeoxycholate, glycochenodeoxycholate-7-sulfate, glycocholate, and sulfolithocholic acid in the colon. In conclusion, crocetin intake disturbed intestinal homeostasis and prolonged recovery of colitis by promoting inflammation and altering gut microbiota composition and its metabolic products in mice. Our findings suggest that patients with gastrointestinal diseases such as inflammatory bowel disease should use crocetin with caution.
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16
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Crocetin exerts hypocholesterolemic effect by inducing LDLR and inhibiting PCSK9 and Sortilin in HepG2 cells. Nutr Res 2022; 98:41-49. [DOI: 10.1016/j.nutres.2021.08.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2021] [Revised: 08/30/2021] [Accepted: 08/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
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17
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Tan W, Pan T, Wang S, Li P, Men Y, Tan R, Zhong Z, Wang Y. Immunometabolism modulation, a new trick of edible and medicinal plants in cancer treatment. Food Chem 2021; 376:131860. [PMID: 34971892 DOI: 10.1016/j.foodchem.2021.131860] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2021] [Revised: 10/04/2021] [Accepted: 12/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
The edible and medicinal plants (EMPs) are becoming an abundant source for cancer prevention and treatment since the natural and healthy trend for modern human beings. Currently, there are more than one hundred species of EMPs widely used and listed by the national health commission of China, and most of them indicate immune or metabolic regulation potential in cancer treatment with numerous studies over the past two decades. In the present review, we focused on the metabolic influence in immunocytes and tumor microenvironment, including immune response, immunosuppressive factors and cancer cells, discussing the immunometabolic potential of EMPs in cancer treatment. There are more than five hundred references collected and analyzed through retrieving pharmacological studies deposited in PubMed by medical subject headings and the corresponding names derived from pharmacopoeia of China as a sole criterion. Finally, the immunometabolism modulation of EMPs was sketch out implying an immunometabolic control in cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wen Tan
- School of Pharmacy, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, Gansu 730000, China
| | - Tingrui Pan
- Suzhou Institute for Advanced Research, University of Science and Technology of China, Suzhou, Jiangsu 215123, China
| | - Shengpeng Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, University of Macau, Macau SAR 999078, China
| | - Peng Li
- State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, University of Macau, Macau SAR 999078, China
| | - Yongfan Men
- Research Laboratory of Biomedical Optics and Molecular Imaging, Institute of Biomedical and Health Engineering, Shenzhen Institutes of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen, Guangdong 518055, China
| | - Rui Tan
- College of Life Science and Engineering, Southwest Jiaotong University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610031, China
| | - Zhangfeng Zhong
- State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, University of Macau, Macau SAR 999078, China.
| | - Yitao Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, University of Macau, Macau SAR 999078, China.
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18
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The Relation between Drying Conditions and the Development of Volatile Compounds in Saffron ( Crocus sativus). Molecules 2021; 26:molecules26226954. [PMID: 34834046 PMCID: PMC8621395 DOI: 10.3390/molecules26226954] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2021] [Revised: 11/09/2021] [Accepted: 11/16/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Saffron is derived from the stigmas of the flower Crocus sativus L. The drying process is the most important post-harvest step for converting C. sativus stigmas into saffron. The aim of this review is to evaluate saffron's post-harvest conditions in the development of volatile compounds and its aroma descriptors. It describes saffron's compound generation by enzymatic pathways and degradation reactions. Saffron quality is described by their metabolite's solubility and the determination of picrocrocin, crocins, and safranal. The drying process induce various modifications in terms of color, flavor and aroma, which take place in the spice. It affects the aromatic species chemical profile. In the food industry, saffron is employed for its sensory attributes, such as coloring, related mainly to crocins (mono-glycosyl esters or di-glycosyl polyene).
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19
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Roshanravan N, Ghaffari S. The therapeutic potential of Crocus sativus Linn.: A comprehensive narrative review of clinical trials. Phytother Res 2021; 36:98-111. [PMID: 34532906 DOI: 10.1002/ptr.7286] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2020] [Revised: 08/28/2021] [Accepted: 09/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Crocus sativus Linn. (Saffron) is valued worldwide for its potential use in the management of various degenerative disorders, including cardiovascular diseases (CVDs), diabetes, cancer, metabolic syndrome (MetS), neurodegenerative diseases, immune disorders, and sexual dysfunction. Previous reports, based on clinical trials, suggest that crocetin, crocin, picrocrocin, and safranal are the main bioactive components of saffron with antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-apoptotic effects. In this comprehensive narrative review, we studied the recent clinical trials, investigating the medicinal applications of saffron and/or its components. The present results can provide important insights into the potential of saffron in preventing and treating different disorders, with a special focus on the underlying cellular and molecular mechanisms. However, further high-quality studies are needed to firmly establish the clinical efficacy of saffron in treating some degenerative diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Neda Roshanravan
- Cardiovascular Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Samad Ghaffari
- Cardiovascular Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
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20
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Husaini AM, Jan KN, Wani GA. Saffron: A potential drug-supplement for severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus (COVID) management. Heliyon 2021; 7:e07068. [PMID: 34007917 PMCID: PMC8118646 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2021.e07068] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2020] [Revised: 01/24/2021] [Accepted: 05/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2, SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19), came as a significant health care challenge for humans in 2019-20. Based on recent laboratory and epidemiological studies, a growing list of mutations in the virus has the potential to enhance its transmission or help it evade the immune response. To further compound the problems, there are considerable challenges to the availability of effective, affordable, safe vaccines on a mass scale. These impediments have led some to explore additional options available in traditional medicines, especially immune-boosting natural products. Saffron has been used for centuries to treat fever, bronchitis, cold and other immune, respiratory disorders. Herein, we discuss the potential role of saffron during and after COVID-19 infection, focusing on immunomodulation, respiratory, renal, and cardiovascular functions. As a nutraceutical or drug supplement, it can alleviate the magnitude of COVID-19 symptoms in patients. The anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and other medicinal properties attributed to saffron bioactive compounds can help in both pre-and post-infection management strategies. The abnormalities associated with COVID-19 survivors include anxiety, depression, sleep disturbances, and post-traumatic stress disorder. Saffron can help manage these post-hospitalization abnormalities (sub-acute and chronic) too, owing to its anti-depressant property. It can help common people boost immunity and manage depression, stress and anxiety caused due to prolonged lockdown, isolation or quarantine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amjad M. Husaini
- Genome Engineering and Societal Biotechnology Lab, Division of Plant Biotechnology, SKUAST-K, Shalimar, Jammu & Kashmir, 190025, India
| | - Khan Nadiya Jan
- Genome Engineering and Societal Biotechnology Lab, Division of Plant Biotechnology, SKUAST-K, Shalimar, Jammu & Kashmir, 190025, India
| | - Gowher A. Wani
- Genome Engineering and Societal Biotechnology Lab, Division of Plant Biotechnology, SKUAST-K, Shalimar, Jammu & Kashmir, 190025, India
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21
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Hill D, Compagnoni C, Cordeiro MF. Investigational neuroprotective compounds in clinical trials for retinal disease. Expert Opin Investig Drugs 2021; 30:571-577. [PMID: 33641585 DOI: 10.1080/13543784.2021.1896701] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Retinal neurodegeneration causes irreversible vision loss, impairing quality of life. By targeting neurotoxic conditions, such as oxidative stress and ischemia, neuroprotectants can slow or stop sight loss resulting from eye disease. Despite limimted clinical use of neuroprotectants, there are several promising compounds in early clinical trials (pre-phase III) which may fulfil new therapeutic roles. Search terms relating to neuroprotection and eye disease were used on ClinicalTrials.gov to identify neuroprotective candidates. AREAS COVERED Research supporting neuroprotection in eye diseases is focused on, ranging from preclinical to phase II, according to the ClinicalTrials.gov database. The compounds discussed are explored in terms of future clinical applications. EXPERT OPINION The major challenge in neuroprotection research is translation from basic research to the clinic. A number of potential neuroprotectants have progressed to ophthalmology clinical trials in recent years, with defined mechanisms of action - saffron and CoQ10 - targeting mitochondria, and both CNTF and NGF showing anti-apoptotic effects. Enhancements in trial design and patient cohorts in proof-of-concept trials with enriched patient populations and surrogate endpoints should accelerate drug development. A further important consideration is optimising drug delivery to improve individualised management and patient compliance. Progress in these areas means that neuroprotective strategies have a much improved chance of translational success.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Hill
- Glaucoma and Retinal Neurodegeneration Group, UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, London, UK
| | - Chiara Compagnoni
- Department of Biotechnological and Applied Clinical Sciences, University of L'Aquila, L'Aquila, Italy
| | - M Francesca Cordeiro
- Glaucoma and Retinal Neurodegeneration Group, UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, London, UK.,The Western Eye Hospital, Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust (ICHNT), London, UK
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22
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Alviz L, Tebar-García D, Lopez-Rosa R, Galan-Moya EM, Moratalla-López N, Alonso GL, Nava E, Llorens S. Pathogenic Microenvironment from Diabetic-Obese Visceral and Subcutaneous Adipocytes Activating Differentiation of Human Healthy Preadipocytes Increases Intracellular Fat, Effect of the Apocarotenoid Crocetin. Nutrients 2021; 13:nu13031032. [PMID: 33806806 PMCID: PMC8004803 DOI: 10.3390/nu13031032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2021] [Revised: 03/18/2021] [Accepted: 03/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
In diabetes mellitus type 2 (DM2), developed obesity is referred to as diabesity. Implementation of a healthy diet, such as the Mediterranean, prevents diabesity. Saffron is frequently used in this diet because of its bioactive components, such as crocetin (CCT), exhibit healthful properties. It is well known that obesity, defined as an excessive accumulation of fat, leads to cardiometabolic pathology through adiposopathy or hypertrophic growth of adipose tissue (AT).This is related to an impaired adipogenic process or death of adipocytes by obesogenic signals. We aimed to evaluate the effect of the pathogenic microenvironment and CCT, activating differentiation of healthy preadipocytes (PA). For this, we used human cryopreserved PA from visceral adipose tissue (VAT) and subcutaneous adipose tissue (SAT) depots obtained from healthy and obese-DM2 donors. We studied the effect of a metabolically detrimental (diabesogenic) environment, generated by obese-DM2 adipocytes from VAT (VdDM) or SAT (SdDM), on the viability and accumulation of intracellular fat of adipocytes differentiated from healthy PA, in the presence or absence of CCT (1 or 10 μM). Intracellular fat was quantified by Oil Red O staining. Cytotoxicity was measured using the MTT assay. Our results showed that diabesogenic conditions induce cytotoxicity and provide a proadipogenic environment only for visceral PA. CCT at 10 μM acted as an antiadipogenic and cytoprotective compound.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lesgui Alviz
- Seguro Social de Salud del Perú (EsSalud) Andahuaylas, Apurímac 03701, Peru;
| | - David Tebar-García
- Translational Oncology Laboratory, Centro Regional de Investigaciones Biomédicas (CRIB), Universidad de Castilla-La Mancha, 02008 Albacete, Spain; (D.T.-G.); (R.L.-R.); (E.M.G.-M.)
| | - Raquel Lopez-Rosa
- Translational Oncology Laboratory, Centro Regional de Investigaciones Biomédicas (CRIB), Universidad de Castilla-La Mancha, 02008 Albacete, Spain; (D.T.-G.); (R.L.-R.); (E.M.G.-M.)
| | - Eva M. Galan-Moya
- Translational Oncology Laboratory, Centro Regional de Investigaciones Biomédicas (CRIB), Universidad de Castilla-La Mancha, 02008 Albacete, Spain; (D.T.-G.); (R.L.-R.); (E.M.G.-M.)
| | - Natalia Moratalla-López
- Cátedra de Química Agrícola, ETSI Agrónomos y de Montes, Universidad de Castilla-La Mancha, Campus Universitario, 02071 Albacete, Spain; (N.M.-L.); (G.L.A.)
| | - Gonzalo L. Alonso
- Cátedra de Química Agrícola, ETSI Agrónomos y de Montes, Universidad de Castilla-La Mancha, Campus Universitario, 02071 Albacete, Spain; (N.M.-L.); (G.L.A.)
| | - Eduardo Nava
- Department of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine of Albacete, Centro Regional de Investigaciones Biomédicas (CRIB), University of Castilla-La Mancha, 02008 Albacete, Spain;
| | - Sílvia Llorens
- Department of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine of Albacete, Centro Regional de Investigaciones Biomédicas (CRIB), University of Castilla-La Mancha, 02008 Albacete, Spain;
- Correspondence:
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PLGA Multiplex Membrane Platform for Disease Modelling and Testing of Therapeutic Compounds. MEMBRANES 2021; 11:membranes11020112. [PMID: 33562851 PMCID: PMC7915411 DOI: 10.3390/membranes11020112] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2021] [Revised: 01/29/2021] [Accepted: 02/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
A proper validation of an engineered brain microenvironment requires a trade of between the complexity of a cellular construct within the in vitro platform and the simple implementation of the investigational tool. The present work aims to accomplish this challenging balance by setting up an innovative membrane platform that represents a good compromise between a proper mimicked brain tissue analogue combined with an easily accessible and implemented membrane system. Another key aspect of the in vitro modelling disease is the identification of a precise phenotypic onset as a definite hallmark of the pathology that needs to be recapitulated within the implemented membrane system. On the basis of these assumptions, we propose a multiplex membrane system in which the recapitulation of specific neuro-pathological onsets related to Alzheimer’s disease pathologies, namely oxidative stress and β-amyloid1–42 toxicity, allowed us to test the neuroprotective effects of trans-crocetin on damaged neurons. The proposed multiplex membrane platform is therefore quite a versatile tool that allows the integration of neuronal pathological events in combination with the testing of new molecules. The present paper explores the use of this alternative methodology, which, relying on membrane technology approach, allows us to study the basic physiological and pathological behaviour of differentiated neuronal cells, as well as their changing behaviour, in response to new potential therapeutic treatment.
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Qin L, Liu H, Wang J, Wang W, Zhang L. Crocetin Exerts a Cardio-protective Effect on Mice with Coxsackievirus B3-induced Acute Viral Myocarditis. J Oleo Sci 2021; 70:1115-1124. [PMID: 34349088 DOI: 10.5650/jos.ess21100] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Previous research has proven that coxsackievirus B3 (CVB3) is broadly considered virus used in the experimental model of animals, which causes myocarditis in humans. To investigate whether there exists a cardio-protective effect of crocetin in an experimental murine model of acute viral myocarditis (AVM). Male BALB/c mice were randomly assigned to three groups: control, myocarditis treated with placebo and myocarditis treated with crocetin (n = 40 animals per group). Myocarditis was established by intraperitoneal injection with CVB3. Twenty-four hours after infection, crocetin was intraperitoneally administered for 14 consecutive days. Twenty mice were randomly selected from each group to monitor a 14-day survival rate. On day 7 and day 14, eight surviving mice from each group were sacrificed and their hearts and blood were obtained to perform serological and histological examinations. Expression of ROCKs, interleukin-17 (IL-17), interleukin-1β (IL-1β), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNFα), RORγt, and Foxp3 was quantified by RT-PCR. Plasma levels of TNFα, IL-1β and IL-17 were measured by ELISA. In addition, protein levels of IL-17 and ROCK2 in cardiac tissues were analyzed by Western blot. Crocetin treatment significantly increased survival, attenuated myocardial necrotic lesions, reduced CVB3 replication and expression of ROCK2 and IL-17 in the infected hearts. ROCK pathway inhibition was cardio-protective in viral myocarditis with increased survival, decreased viral replication, and inflammatory response. These findings suggest that crocetin is a potential therapeutic agent for patients with viral myocarditis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li Qin
- Department of Pediatrics, Affiliated Hospital of North Sichuan Medical College
| | - Hui Liu
- Department of Neonatology, Shiyan Taihe Hospital, Hubei University of Medicine
| | - Jinghua Wang
- Division of Rheumatology, Immunology & Allergy in the Department of Pediatrics, the First hospital of Jilin University
| | - Wei Wang
- Pediatrics of Fifth Hospital of Shijiazhuang City
| | - Lei Zhang
- Department of Pediatrics, Heilongjiang Provincial Hospital
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Cerdá-Bernad D, Valero-Cases E, Pastor JJ, Frutos MJ. Saffron bioactives crocin, crocetin and safranal: effect on oxidative stress and mechanisms of action. Crit Rev Food Sci Nutr 2020; 62:3232-3249. [PMID: 33356506 DOI: 10.1080/10408398.2020.1864279] [Citation(s) in RCA: 67] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Saffron (Crocus sativus L.) is used as a spice for its organoleptic characteristics related to its coloring and flavoring properties, and it has been also used in traditional medicine to treat various diseases. The main chemical components responsible for these properties are crocin, crocetin and safranal. These compounds have been shown to have a wide spectrum of biological activities, including several properties as antigenotoxic, antioxidant, anticancer, anti-inflammatory, antiatherosclerotic, antidiabetic, hypotensive, hypoglycemic, antihyperlipidemic, antidegenerative and antidepressant, among others. This review article highlights the antioxidant effects of these bioactive compounds to reduce reactive oxygen species (ROS) and the mechanisms of action involved, since there are a multitude of diseases related to oxidative stress and the generation of free radicals (FRs). Recent studies have shown that the effects of crocin, crocetin and safranal against oxidative stress include the reduction in lipid peroxidation (malondialdehyde [MDA] levels) and nitric oxide (NO) levels, and the increase in the levels of glutathione, antioxidant enzymes (superoxide dismutase [SOD], catalase (CAT) and glutathione peroxidase [GPx]) and thiol content. Therefore, due to the great antioxidant effects of these saffron compounds, it makes saffron a potential source of bioactive extracts for the development of bioactive ingredients, which can be used to produce functional foods.
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Affiliation(s)
- Débora Cerdá-Bernad
- Research Group on Quality and Safety, Food Technology Department, Miguel Hernández University, Orihuela, Spain
| | - Estefanía Valero-Cases
- Research Group on Quality and Safety, Food Technology Department, Miguel Hernández University, Orihuela, Spain
| | | | - María José Frutos
- Research Group on Quality and Safety, Food Technology Department, Miguel Hernández University, Orihuela, Spain
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Bosch-Morell F, Villagrasa V, Ortega T, Acero N, Muñoz-Mingarro D, González-Rosende ME, Castillo E, Sanahuja MA, Soriano P, Martínez-Solís I. Medicinal plants and natural products as neuroprotective agents in age-related macular degeneration. Neural Regen Res 2020; 15:2207-2216. [PMID: 32594032 PMCID: PMC7749482 DOI: 10.4103/1673-5374.284978] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2019] [Revised: 12/12/2019] [Accepted: 02/12/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The retina may suffer neurodegenerative damages, as other tissues of the central nervous system do, and serious eye diseases may develop. One of them is age-related macular degeneration, which causes progressive loss of vision due to retina degeneration. Treatment of age-related macular degeneration focuses on antioxidant agents and anti-vascular endothelial growth factor compounds, among others, that prevent/diminish oxidative stress and reduce neovascularisation respectively. The phytochemicals, medicinal plants and/or plant-diet supplements might be a useful adjunct in prevention or treatment of age-related macular degeneration owing to their antioxidant and anti-vascular endothelial growth factor properties. This review article presents the most investigated plants and natural products in relation to age-related macular degeneration, such as saffron, ginkgo, bilberry and blueberry, curcuma or turmeric, carotenoids, polyphenols, and vitamins C and E. This study provides up-to-date information on the effects, treatments, safety and efficiency of these phytotherapy products.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francisco Bosch-Morell
- Biomedical Sciences Institute, Universidad Cardenal Herrera-CEU, CEU Universities, Alfara del Patriarca, Valencia, Spain
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, Universidad Cardenal Herrera-CEU, CEU Universities, Alfara del Patriarca, Valencia, Spain
| | - Victoria Villagrasa
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Health Sciences, Universidad Cardenal Herrera-CEU, CEU Universities, Alfara del Patriarca, Valencia, Spain
| | - Teresa Ortega
- Department of Pharmacology, Pharmacognosy and Botany, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Nuria Acero
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Health Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, Universidad San Pablo-CEU, CEU Universities, Madrid, Spain
| | - Dolores Muñoz-Mingarro
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Universidad San Pablo-CEU, CEU Universities, Madrid, Spain
| | - M. Eugenia González-Rosende
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Health Sciences, Universidad Cardenal Herrera-CEU, CEU Universities, Alfara del Patriarca, Valencia, Spain
| | - Encarna Castillo
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Health Sciences, Universidad Cardenal Herrera-CEU, CEU Universities, Alfara del Patriarca, Valencia, Spain
| | - M. Amparo Sanahuja
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Health Sciences, Universidad Cardenal Herrera-CEU, CEU Universities, Alfara del Patriarca, Valencia, Spain
| | - Pilar Soriano
- ICBiBE-Botanical Garden, University of Valencia, Valencia, Spain
| | - Isabel Martínez-Solís
- Biomedical Sciences Institute, Universidad Cardenal Herrera-CEU, CEU Universities, Alfara del Patriarca, Valencia, Spain
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Health Sciences, Universidad Cardenal Herrera-CEU, CEU Universities, Alfara del Patriarca, Valencia, Spain
- ICBiBE-Botanical Garden, University of Valencia, Valencia, Spain
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de Castro ML, Quiles-Zafra R. Appropriate use of analytical terminology – examples drawn from research on saffron. TALANTA OPEN 2020. [DOI: 10.1016/j.talo.2020.100005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
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Saffron: Chemical Composition and Neuroprotective Activity. Molecules 2020; 25:molecules25235618. [PMID: 33260389 PMCID: PMC7731018 DOI: 10.3390/molecules25235618] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2020] [Revised: 11/24/2020] [Accepted: 11/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Crocus sativus L. belongs to the Iridaceae family and it is commonly known as saffron. The different cultures together with the geoclimatic characteristics of the territory determine a different chemical composition that characterizes the final product. This is why a complete knowledge of this product is fundamental, from which more than 150 chemical compounds have been extracted from, but only about one third of them have been identified. The chemical composition of saffron has been studied in relation to its efficacy in coping with neurodegenerative retinal diseases. Accordingly, experimental results provide evidence of a strict correlation between chemical composition and neuroprotective capacity. We found that saffron's ability to cope with retinal neurodegeneration is related to: (1) the presence of specific crocins and (2) the contribution of other saffron components. We summarize previous evidence and provide original data showing that results obtained both "in vivo" and "in vitro" lead to the same conclusion.
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Jiménez-Ortega E, Braza-Boïls A, Burgos M, Moratalla-López N, Vicente M, Alonso GL, Nava E, Llorens S. Crocetin Isolated from the Natural Food Colorant Saffron Reduces Intracellular Fat in 3T3-L1 Adipocytes. Foods 2020; 9:foods9111648. [PMID: 33198073 PMCID: PMC7696798 DOI: 10.3390/foods9111648] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2020] [Revised: 11/06/2020] [Accepted: 11/10/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Saffron, as a food colorant, has been displaced by low-cost synthetic dyes. These have unhealthy properties; thus, their replacement with natural food colorants is an emerging trend. Obesity is a worldwide health problem due to its associated comorbidities. Crocetin esters (crocins) are responsible for the red saffron color. Crocetin (CCT) exhibits healthful properties. We aimed to broaden the existing knowledge on the health properties of CCT isolated from saffron, to facilitate its consideration as a healthy natural food colorant in the future. We evaluated the ability of CCT (1 and 5 μM) to reduce lipid accumulation during the differentiation of 3T3-L1 preadipocytes. Intracellular fat was quantified by Oil Red O staining. CTT cytotoxicity was measured using the 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay. The number and size of lipid droplets were analyzed using WimLipid software. The expression of adipogenic genes (CCAAT/enhancer-binding protein (C/EBPβ, C/EBPδ, C/EBPα), and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ (PPARγ)) was analyzed using quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR). CCT 5 μM decreased intracellular fat by 22.6%, without affecting viability or lipid droplet generation, via a decrease in C/EBPα expression, implicated in lipid accumulation. Thus, CCT is a potential candidate to be included in dietary therapies aimed at reversing adipose tissue accumulation in obesity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elena Jiménez-Ortega
- Department of Crystallography and Structural Biology, Institute of Physical-Chemistry Rocasolano, CSIC, 28006 Madrid, Spain;
| | - Aitana Braza-Boïls
- Unidad de Cardiopatías Familiares, Muerte Súbita y Mecanismos de Enfermedad (CaFaMuSMe), Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe, 46026 Valencia, Spain;
| | - Miguel Burgos
- Translational Research Unit, Albacete University Hospital, 02008 Albacete, Spain;
| | - Natalia Moratalla-López
- Cátedra de Química Agrícola, ETSI Agrónomos y de Montes, Universidad de Castilla-La Mancha, Campus Universitario, 02071 Albacete, Spain; (N.M.-L.); (G.L.A.)
| | - Manuel Vicente
- Department of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine of Albacete, Centro Regional de Investigaciones Biomédicas (CRIB), University of Castilla-La Mancha, 02008 Albacete, Spain; (M.V.); (E.N.)
| | - Gonzalo L. Alonso
- Cátedra de Química Agrícola, ETSI Agrónomos y de Montes, Universidad de Castilla-La Mancha, Campus Universitario, 02071 Albacete, Spain; (N.M.-L.); (G.L.A.)
| | - Eduardo Nava
- Department of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine of Albacete, Centro Regional de Investigaciones Biomédicas (CRIB), University of Castilla-La Mancha, 02008 Albacete, Spain; (M.V.); (E.N.)
| | - Sílvia Llorens
- Department of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine of Albacete, Centro Regional de Investigaciones Biomédicas (CRIB), University of Castilla-La Mancha, 02008 Albacete, Spain; (M.V.); (E.N.)
- Correspondence:
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Protective Effects of Crocetin against Radiation-Induced Injury in Intestinal Epithelial Cells. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2020; 2020:2906053. [PMID: 32964024 PMCID: PMC7499320 DOI: 10.1155/2020/2906053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2020] [Revised: 08/03/2020] [Accepted: 08/13/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Background and Aims Treatment options for radiation-induced intestinal injury (RIII) are limited. Crocetin has been demonstrated to exert antioxidant, antiapoptotic, and anti-inflammatory effects on various diseases. Here, we investigate the effects of crocetin on RIII in vitro. Materials and Method. IEC-6 cells exposed to 10 Gy of radiation were treated with different doses of crocetin (0, 0.1, 1, 10, and 100 μM), and cell viability was assessed by CCK-8. The levels of superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), malondialdehyde (MDA), myeloperoxidase (MPO), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interleukin-1β (IL-1β), and interferon-γ (IFN-γ) in culture supernatants were measured using colorimetric and ELISA kits, respectively. Cellular apoptosis was evaluated by Annexin V/PI double staining. Results Crocetin dose-dependently improved the survival of irradiated IEC-6 cells with the optimal dose of 10 μM, as indicated by the reduction of cellular apoptosis, decreased levels of MDA, MPO, and proinflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-1β, and IFN-γ), and increased activities of antioxidative enzymes (SOD, CAT, and GPx). Conclusion Our findings demonstrated that crocetin alleviated radiation-induced injury in intestinal epithelial cells, offering a promising agent for radioprotection.
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Ibrahim MAA, Sharaf Eldin HEM, Elswaidy NRM. Role of aqueous extract of saffron in ameliorating effect of sofosbuvir on the cerebellar cortex in rat. Anat Rec (Hoboken) 2020; 304:714-724. [PMID: 32721089 DOI: 10.1002/ar.24501] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2020] [Revised: 06/10/2020] [Accepted: 06/30/2020] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
Sofosbuvir is a promising antiviral drug against chronic hepatitis C virus. Although it is characterized by its high efficacy, its adverse effects on nervous tissue are still unclear. Saffron is known for its neuroprotective property. This is a biochemical, histological and immunohistochemical study of the effect of sofosbuvir on the cerebellar cortex of rat and the possible ameliorating role of saffron's aqueous extract. Twenty-four adult male Wistar albino rats were equally divided into four groups; control, saffron extract-treated, sofosbuvir-treated (41.1 mg/kg/day for 6 weeks) and group concomitantly treated with saffron extract and sofosbuvir. Sofosbuvir-treated group recorded a significant increase in cerebellar malondialdehyde level coupling with a significant decrease in tissue glutathione and superoxide dismutase. Light microscopy revealed reduced number of Purkinje cells. The granular layer depicted many granular cells and Bergmann astrocytes with nuclear and cytoplasmic alterations. Electron microscopy revealed disorganized molecular layer with disarranged myelinated axons and disrupted mitochondria. Few shrunken Purkinje cells showed electron-dense cytoplasm and rarefied nuclei, indistinct nuclear envelope and dilated perinuclear space, areas of vacuolated cytoplasm, fragmented rough endoplasmic reticulum and few dark mitochondria. Some axons with tiny mitochondria were detected. A significant upregulation in immunohistochemical expression of GFAP-positive astrocytes was recorded. Concomitant administration of saffron extract significantly improved all studied parameters. Saffron extract is beneficial in ameliorating sofosbuvir-induced cerebellar morphological changes mainly through its antioxidant and neuroprotective properties.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Noha R M Elswaidy
- Histology and Cell Biology Department, Tanta University, Tanta, Egypt
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Crocetin Prevents RPE Cells from Oxidative Stress through Protection of Cellular Metabolic Function and Activation of ERK1/2. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21082949. [PMID: 32331354 PMCID: PMC7215651 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21082949] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2020] [Revised: 04/20/2020] [Accepted: 04/20/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a leading cause for visual impairment in aging populations with limited established therapeutic interventions available. Oxidative stress plays an essential role in the pathogenesis of AMD, damaging the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE), which is essential for the function and maintenance of the light-sensing photoreceptors. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of crocetin, one of the main components of Saffron, on an in vitro RPE model of tert-butyl hydroperoxide (TBHP) induced oxidative stress using ARPE19 cells. The effects of crocetin were assessed using lactate de-hydrogenase (LDH) and ATP assays, as well as immunocytochemistry for cell morphology, junctional integrity, and nuclear morphology. The mechanism of crocetin action was determined via assessment of energy production pathways, including mitochondrial respiration and glycolysis in real-time as well as investigation of extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1/2 (ERK1/2) activation and distribution. Our results show that crocetin pre-treatment protects ARPE19 cells from TBHP-induced LDH release, intracellular ATP depletion, nuclear condensation, and disturbance of junctional integrity and cytoskeleton. The protective effect of crocetin is mediated via the preservation of energy production pathways and activation of ERK1/2 in the first minutes of TBHP exposure to potentiate survival pathways. The combined data suggest that a natural antioxidant, such as crocetin, represents a promising candidate to prevent oxidative stress in RPE cells and might halt or delay disease progression in AMD.
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Bacteria as an alternate biofactory for carotenoid production: A review of its applications, opportunities and challenges. J Funct Foods 2020. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jff.2020.103867] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
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Wong KH, Xie Y, Huang X, Kadota K, Yao XS, Yu Y, Chen X, Lu A, Yang Z. Delivering Crocetin across the Blood-Brain Barrier by Using γ-Cyclodextrin to Treat Alzheimer's Disease. Sci Rep 2020; 10:3654. [PMID: 32107408 PMCID: PMC7046745 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-60293-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2019] [Accepted: 02/10/2020] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Crocetin (CRT) has shown various neuroprotective effects such as antioxidant activities and the inhibition of amyloid β fibril formation, and thus is a potential therapeutic candidate for Alzheimer's disease (AD). However, poor water solubility and bioavailability are the major obstacles in formulation development and pharmaceutical applications of CRT. In this study, a novel water-soluble CRT-γ-cyclodextrin inclusion complex suitable for intravenous injection was developed. The inclusion complex was nontoxic to normal neuroblastoma cells (N2a cells and SH-SY5Y cells) and AD model cells (7PA2 cells). Furthermore, it showed stronger ability to downregulate the expression of C-terminus fragments and level of amyloid β in 7PA2 cell line as compared to the CRT free drug. Both inclusion complex and CRT were able to prevent SH-SY5Y cell death from H2O2-induced toxicity. The pharmacokinetics and biodistribution studies showed that CRT-γ-cyclodextrin inclusion complex significantly increased the bioavailability of CRT and facilitated CRT crossing the blood-brain barrier to enter the brain. This data shows a water-soluble γ-cyclodextrin inclusion complex helped to deliver CRT across the blood-brain barrier. This success should fuel further pharmaceutical research on CRT in the treatment for AD, and it should engender research on γ-cyclodextrin with other drugs that have so far not been explored.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ka Hong Wong
- School of Chinese Medicine, Hong Kong Baptist University, 7 Baptist University Road, Kowloon Tong, Kowloon, Hong Kong
| | - Yuning Xie
- School of Chinese Medicine, Hong Kong Baptist University, 7 Baptist University Road, Kowloon Tong, Kowloon, Hong Kong
| | - Xiao Huang
- School of Chinese Medicine, Hong Kong Baptist University, 7 Baptist University Road, Kowloon Tong, Kowloon, Hong Kong
| | - Kazunori Kadota
- School of Chinese Medicine, Hong Kong Baptist University, 7 Baptist University Road, Kowloon Tong, Kowloon, Hong Kong
- Department of Formulation Design and Pharmaceutical Technology, Osaka University of Pharmaceutical Sciences, 4-20-1 Nasahara, Takatsuki, Osaka, 569-1094, Japan
| | - Xin-Sheng Yao
- Institute of Traditional Chinese Medicine & Natural Products, College of Pharmacy and Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Pharmacodynamic Constituents of TCM and New Drug Research, Jinan University, Guangzhou, 510632, China
| | - Yang Yu
- Institute of Traditional Chinese Medicine & Natural Products, College of Pharmacy and Guangdong Province Key Laboratory of Pharmacodynamic Constituents of TCM and New Drug Research, Jinan University, Guangzhou, 510632, China
| | - Xiaoyu Chen
- School of Chinese Medicine, Hong Kong Baptist University, 7 Baptist University Road, Kowloon Tong, Kowloon, Hong Kong
| | - Aiping Lu
- School of Chinese Medicine, Hong Kong Baptist University, 7 Baptist University Road, Kowloon Tong, Kowloon, Hong Kong
- Changshu Research Institute, Hong Kong Baptist University, Changshu Economic and Technological Development (CETD) Zone, Changshu, 215500, China
| | - Zhijun Yang
- School of Chinese Medicine, Hong Kong Baptist University, 7 Baptist University Road, Kowloon Tong, Kowloon, Hong Kong.
- Changshu Research Institute, Hong Kong Baptist University, Changshu Economic and Technological Development (CETD) Zone, Changshu, 215500, China.
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Colapietro A, Mancini A, D'Alessandro AM, Festuccia C. Crocetin and Crocin from Saffron in Cancer Chemotherapy and Chemoprevention. Anticancer Agents Med Chem 2019; 19:38-47. [PMID: 30599111 DOI: 10.2174/1871520619666181231112453] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2017] [Revised: 03/17/2018] [Accepted: 08/21/2018] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Cancer is a disorder which has a powerful impact on the quality life and life expectancy despite the increase in drugs and treatments available for cancer patients. Moreover, many new therapeutic options are known to have adverse reactions without any improvement in outcome than before. Nowadays, natural products or plant derivatives are used as chemoprevention drugs and chemotherapy is the new approach that uses specific cell premalignant transformation in the malignant form. Natural substances derived from plants, such as polyphenols, flavonoids, carotenoids, alkaloids and others, can be biologically active and have a wide spectrum of effects. The protective effects of Saffron carotenoids (crocin and crocetin) have been extensively studied mainly for their antioxidant properties, however, they have various other biological activities including tumor growth inhibition with the induction of cell death. METHODS The relevant information on Saffron and its carotenoids was collected from scientific databases (such as PubMed, Web of Science, Science Direct). To identify all published articles in relation to saffron, crocin and crocetin, in different types of cancer, no language restriction has been used. RESULTS To date, crossing the words saffron and cancer, approximately 150 articles can be found. If crossing is made between crocin and cancer, approximately 60 articles can be found. With the crossing between crocetin and cancer, the number is approximately 55, while between carotenoids and cancer, the number exceeds 16.000 reports. In all the papers published to date, there are evidences that saffron and its carotenoids exert chemopreventive activity through anti-oxidant activity, cancer cells apoptosis, inhibition of cell proliferation, enhancement of cell differentiation, modulation of cell cycle progression and cell growth, modulation of tumor metabolism, stimulation of cell-to-cell communication and immune modulation. CONCLUSION Here, we have tried to offer an up-to-date overview of pre-clinical experimental investigations on the potential use of the main carotenoids of saffron in tumor models and focus the attention on the molecular mechanisms involved.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandro Colapietro
- Department of Biotechnological and Applied Clinical Sciences, Radiobiology Laboratory, University of L'Aquila, L'Aquila, Italy
| | - Andrea Mancini
- Department of Biotechnological and Applied Clinical Sciences, Radiobiology Laboratory, University of L'Aquila, L'Aquila, Italy
| | - Anna Maria D'Alessandro
- Department of Life, Health and Environmental Sciences, University of L'Aquila, L'Aquila, Italy
| | - Claudio Festuccia
- Department of Biotechnological and Applied Clinical Sciences, Radiobiology Laboratory, University of L'Aquila, L'Aquila, Italy
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Pakfetrat A, Talebi M, Dalirsani Z, Mohajeri A, Zamani R, Ghazi A. Evaluation of the effectiveness of crocin isolated from saffron in treatment of burning mouth syndrome: A randomized controlled trial. AVICENNA JOURNAL OF PHYTOMEDICINE 2019; 9:505-516. [PMID: 31763210 PMCID: PMC6823529 DOI: 10.22038/ajp.2019.12764] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2019] [Revised: 03/02/2019] [Accepted: 03/03/2019] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Burning mouth syndrome (BMS) is a debilitating disorder with few limited treatment modalities. Because of the proven association between BMS symptoms, and depression and anxiety, treatment modalities that alleviate the two latter etiologic factors can be clinically effective. Thus, owing to the antidepressant and potential analgesic effects of crocin (as an active constituent of saffron), the present study was performed to compare the effect of crocin and citalopram (as control) on BMS symptoms and depression/anxiety in patients with BMS. MATERIALS AND METHODS The present double-blind randomized clinical trial was carried out on BMS patients. Patients were randomly divided into citalopram (n=21) and crocin (n=26) groups and treated for 11 weeks. BMS symptoms (based on Visual Analysis Scale (VAS)), as well as anxiety and depression (based on Hamilton questionnaire) were evaluated at baseline and during the treatment period. Mann-Whitney, Chi-Square test, Independent t-test, Friedman, and Spearman correlation were employed for statistical analysis. RESULTS Our findings showed a significant effect for crocin on the severity of BMS symptoms, anxiety and depression in BMS patients. CONCLUSION Crocin can be considered for treatment of BMS subjects with concurrent anxiety and/or depression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Atessa Pakfetrat
- Oral and Maxillofacial Diseases Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Mehdi Talebi
- Family Medicine Department, Faculty of Psychiatry, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Zohreh Dalirsani
- Oral and Maxillofacial Diseases Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Ahmad Mohajeri
- Targeted Drug Delivery Research Center, Pharmaceutical Technology Institute, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Roya Zamani
- Department of Oral Health, Gonabad University of Medical Sciences, Gonabad, Iran
| | - Ala Ghazi
- Oral and Maxillofacial Diseases Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
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Abstract
The Aromatic and Medicinal Plants sector has undergone a remarkable evolution, especially during the last decade. The global market is moving more and more towards products of natural origin. Indeed, of the 4200-existing plant in Morocco, 800 are listed as aromatic and medicinal plants. Among these plants, saffron is a source of income for many areas of Morocco. Saffron, the dried stigma of the Crocus sativus flower, is considered among the main terroir products of Morocco. Saffron has accompanied all civilizations, whether for its culinary role, for its quality of dye or its ancestral virtues rooted in folk medicine. This review highlights the main components of saffron, and the pharmacological activities that result from it and make this product a serious therapeutic hope. Then, a classification of uses of saffron was carried out according to its uses, traditional, pharmaceutical, cosmetic and perfumery without forgetting its use a spice incorporated in many dishes around the world.
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Encapsulation of crocetin into poly (lactic-co-glycolic acid) nanoparticles overcomes drug resistance in human ovarian cisplatin-resistant carcinoma cell line (A2780-RCIS). Mol Biol Rep 2019; 46:6525-6532. [PMID: 31646427 DOI: 10.1007/s11033-019-05098-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2019] [Accepted: 09/22/2019] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Nanoparticles and herbal medicines have gained considerable attention in overcoming multidrug resistance through different mechanisms. In this study, the effects of poly (Lactic-co-glycolic acid)-crocetin nanoparticles (PLGA-Crt NPs) on MRP1 and MRP2 activity in a human ovarian cisplatin-resistant carcinoma cell line (A2780-RCIS) and its parental form (A2780) were evaluated. PLGA-Crt NPs were formulated and then characterized. The cytotoxic effect of Crt, PLGA-Crt NPs, and empty PLGA NPs was assessed using MTT test in A2780 and A2780-RCIS cells. The effect of PLGA-Crt NPs on MRP1 and MRP2 mRNA expression was evaluated by Real-Time qRT-PCR. The impact of PLGA-Crt NPs on the functioning of MRP transporters was assessed by the doxorubicin efflux assay. The particle size, entrapment efficiency (EE) and loading capacity (LC) of PLGA-Crt NPs were obtained about 239.8 ± 9 nm, 79 ± 3% and 4.9 ± 0.2%, respectively. The PLGA-Crt NPs IC50 values were obtained 104 ± 3 µM and 96 ± 2 µM in A2780 and A2780-RCIS cell lines, respectively. The Real-time RT-PCR results demonstrated the inhibition of mRNA expression of MRP2 in all studied concentrations (up to 67 ± 8% at 100 µM) in A2780-RCIS cells. PLGA-Crt NPs showed more indirect efflux inhibition (up to 70 ± 5%) compared to direct inhibition (up to 49 ± 5%). The encapsulation of crocetin into PLGA NPs can increase its inhibitory effects on drug resistance by downregulating MRP2 transporters.
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Antioxidant Saffron and Central Retinal Function in ABCA4-Related Stargardt Macular Dystrophy. Nutrients 2019; 11:nu11102461. [PMID: 31618812 PMCID: PMC6835540 DOI: 10.3390/nu11102461] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2019] [Revised: 09/30/2019] [Accepted: 10/01/2019] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Retinal oxidative damage, associated with an ATP-binding cassette, sub-family A, member 4, also known as ABCA4 gene mutation, has been implicated as a major underlying mechanism for Stargardt disease/fundus flavimaculatus (STG/FF). Recent findings indicate that saffron carotenoid constituents crocins and crocetin may counteract retinal oxidative damage, inflammation and protect retinal cells from apoptosis. This pilot study aimed to evaluate central retinal function following saffron supplementation in STG/FF patients carrying ABCA4 mutations. Methods: in a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study (clinicaltrials.gov: NCT01278277), 31 patients with ABCA4-related STG/FF and a visual acuity >0.25 were randomly assigned to assume oral saffron (20 mg) or placebo over a six month period and then reverted to P or S for a further six month period. Full ophthalmic examinations, as well as central 18° focal electroretinogram (fERG) recordings, were performed at baseline and after six months of either saffron or placebo. The fERG fundamental harmonic component was isolated by Fourier analysis. Main outcome measures were fERG amplitude (in µV) and phase (in degrees). The secondary outcome measure was visual acuity. Results: supplement was well tolerated by all patients throughout follow-up. After saffron, fERG amplitude was unchanged; after placebo, amplitude tended to decrease from baseline (mean change: −0.18 log µV, p < 0.05). Reverting the treatments, amplitude did not change significantly. fERG phase and visual acuity were unchanged throughout follow-up. Conclusions: short-term saffron supplementation was well tolerated and had no detrimental effects on the electroretinographic responses of the central retina and visual acuity. The current findings warrant further long-term clinical trials to assess the efficacy of saffron supplementation in slowing down the progression of central retinal dysfunction in ABCA4-related STG/FF.
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Pashirzad M, Shafiee M, Avan A, Ryzhikov M, Fiuji H, Bahreyni A, Khazaei M, Soleimanpour S, Hassanian SM. Therapeutic potency of crocin in the treatment of inflammatory diseases: Current status and perspective. J Cell Physiol 2019; 234:14601-14611. [PMID: 30673132 DOI: 10.1002/jcp.28177] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2018] [Accepted: 01/10/2019] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
Crocin is the major component of saffron, which is used in phytomedicine for the treatment of several diseases including diabetes, fatty liver, depression, menstruation disorders, and, of special interest in this review, inflammatory diseases. Promising selective anti-inflammatory properties of this pharmacological active component have been observed in several studies. Saffron has been shown to exert anti-inflammatory properties against several inflammatory diseases and can be used as a novel therapeutic agent for the treatment of inflammatory diseases either alone or in combination with other standard anti-inflammatory agents. This review summarizes the protective role of saffron and its pharmacologically active constituents in the pathogenesis of inflammatory diseases including digestive diseases, dermatitis, asthma, atherosclerosis, and neurodegenerative diseases for a better understanding and hence a better management of these diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mehran Pashirzad
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Mojtaba Shafiee
- Department of Nutrition, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Amir Avan
- Metabolic Syndrome Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran.,Department of Modern Sciences and Technologies, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Mikhail Ryzhikov
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Washington University, School of Medicine, Saint Louis, Missouri
| | - Hamid Fiuji
- Department of Biochemistry, Payame-Noor University, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Amirhossein Bahreyni
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry and Immunogenetic Research Center, Faculty of Medicine, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Mazandaran, Iran
| | - Majid Khazaei
- Department of Medical Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Saman Soleimanpour
- Department of Microbiology and Virology, School of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Seyed Mahdi Hassanian
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran.,Metabolic Syndrome Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
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Comparative anticancer activity analysis of saffron extracts and a principle component, crocetin for prevention and treatment of human malignancies. Journal of Food Science and Technology 2019; 56:5435-5443. [PMID: 31749491 DOI: 10.1007/s13197-019-04014-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Revised: 08/02/2019] [Accepted: 08/07/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Abstract Saffron, obtained from dry stigmas of the flowers of Crocus sativus L. (fam. Iridaceae), is an ancient spice and a natural food colorant that has been used to treat various diseases in the long human history. Crocetin is of the main secondary metabolites of saffron and its curative properties for many ailments have been revealed in the previous scientific reports. The aim of this study was to evaluate the anticancer potentials of saffron extracts and its pure crocetin compounds against human cancer cells. The cytotoxic and antiproliferative activities along with lactate dehydrogenase activities of extracts and crocetin, a carotenoid derived from saffron, were assessed using A549, MCF-7 and HeLa human cancer cells, and compared to the non-malignant HUVECs. Additionally, apoptotic activity in the cells treated and untreated with the extracts and pure crocetin were determined in terms of DNA fragmentation. The results showed the extracts and crocetin from saffron induced cytotoxicity, enhanced cancer cell death as well as inhibited cancer cell growth in a concentration and time dependent manner. In addition, the results revealed that the tested compounds at different concentration had no cytotoxic effects on the non-malignant cells, whereas, it could significantly decrease the cell viability and proliferation in the malignant cells. As compared to anticancer potentials of the analyzed extracts and its pure crocetin compounds, crocetin was found as the more potent one. Overall, this research suggests that crocetin is a potential anticancer agent that can be used for cancer prevention and treatment. Graphic abstract
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Hatziagapiou K, Kakouri E, Lambrou GI, Bethanis K, Tarantilis PA. Antioxidant Properties of Crocus Sativus L. and Its Constituents and Relevance to Neurodegenerative Diseases; Focus on Alzheimer's and Parkinson's Disease. Curr Neuropharmacol 2019; 17:377-402. [PMID: 29564976 PMCID: PMC6482475 DOI: 10.2174/1570159x16666180321095705] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2017] [Revised: 01/03/2018] [Accepted: 03/19/2018] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Reactive oxygen species and reactive nitrogen species, which are collectively called reactive oxygen-nitrogen species, are the inevitable by-products of cellular metabolic redox reactions, such as oxidative phosphorylation in the mitochondrial respiratory chain, phagocytosis, reactions of biotransformation of exogenous and endogenous substrata in endoplasmic reticulum, eicosanoid synthesis, and redox reactions in the presence of metal with variable valence. Among medicinal plants, there is growing interest in Crocus Sativus L. It is a perennial, stemless herb, belonging to Iridaceae family, cultivated in various countries such as Greece, Italy, Spain, Israel, Morocco, Turkey, Iran, India, China, Egypt and Mexico. OBJECTIVE The present study aims to address the protective role of Crocus Sativus L. in neurodegeneration with an emphasis in Parkinson's and Alzheimer's disease. MATERIALS AND METHODS An electronic literature search was conducted by two of the authors from 1993 to August 2017. Original articles and systematic reviews (with or without meta-analysis), as well as case reports were selected. Titles and abstracts of papers were screened by a third reviewer to determine whether they met the eligibility criteria, and full texts of the selected articles were retrieved. RESULTS Hence, the authors focused on the literature concerning the role of Crocus Sativus L. on its anti-oxidant and neuroprotective properties. CONCLUSION Literature findings represented in current review herald promising results for using Crocus Sativus L. and/or its active constituents as antioxidants, anti-inflammatory, and neuroprotective agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kyriaki Hatziagapiou
- First Department of Pediatrics, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Choremeio Research Laboratory, Hematology/Oncology Unit, Athens, Greece
| | - Eleni Kakouri
- Laboratory of Chemistry, Department of Food Science & Human Nutrition, School of Food Biotechnology and Development, Agricultural University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - George I Lambrou
- First Department of Pediatrics, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Choremeio Research Laboratory, Hematology/Oncology Unit, Athens, Greece
| | - Kostas Bethanis
- Physics Laboratory, Department of Biotechnology, School of Food Biotechnology and Development, Agricultural University of Athens, Greece
| | - Petros A Tarantilis
- Laboratory of Chemistry, Department of Food Science & Human Nutrition, School of Food Biotechnology and Development, Agricultural University of Athens, Athens, Greece
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Mori K, Torii H, Fujimoto S, Jiang X, Ikeda SI, Yotsukura E, Koh S, Kurihara T, Nishida K, Tsubota K. The Effect of Dietary Supplementation of Crocetin for Myopia Control in Children: A Randomized Clinical Trial. J Clin Med 2019; 8:jcm8081179. [PMID: 31394821 PMCID: PMC6724222 DOI: 10.3390/jcm8081179] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2019] [Revised: 07/31/2019] [Accepted: 08/06/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
The prevalence of myopia has been increasing in recent years. The natural carotenoid crocetin has been reported to suppress experimental myopia in mice. We evaluated the effects of crocetin on myopia suppression in children. A multicenter randomized double-blind placebo-controlled clinical trial was performed with 69 participants aged 6 to 12 years, whose cycloplegic spherical equivalent refractions (SER) were between -1.5 and -4.5 diopter (D). The participants were randomized to receive either a placebo or crocetin and followed up for 24 weeks. Axial length (AL) elongation and changes in SER were evaluated for 24 weeks. Both written informed assent from the participants and written informed consent from legal guardians were obtained in this study because the selection criteria of this trial included children aged between 6 and 12 years old. This trial was approved by the institutional review boards. A mixed-effects model was used for analysis, using both eyes. Two participants dropped out and 67 children completed this trial. The change in SER in the placebo group, -0.41 ± 0.05 D (mean ± standard deviation), was significantly more myopic compared to that in the crocetin group, -0.33 ± 0.05 D (p = 0.049). The AL elongation in the placebo group, 0.21 ± 0.02 mm, was significantly bigger than that in the crocetin group, 0.18 ± 0.02 mm (p = 0.046). In conclusion, dietary crocetin may have a suppressive effect on myopia progression in children, but large-scale studies are required in order to confirm this effect.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kiwako Mori
- Department of Ophthalmology, Keio University School of Medicine, 35 Shinanomachi, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 160-8582, Japan
- Laboratory of Photobiology, Keio University School of Medicine, 35 Shinanomachi, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 160-8582, Japan
| | - Hidemasa Torii
- Department of Ophthalmology, Keio University School of Medicine, 35 Shinanomachi, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 160-8582, Japan
- Laboratory of Photobiology, Keio University School of Medicine, 35 Shinanomachi, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 160-8582, Japan
| | - Satoko Fujimoto
- Department of Ophthalmology, Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine, 2-2 Yamadaoka, Suita, Osaka 565-0871, Japan
| | - Xiaoyan Jiang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Keio University School of Medicine, 35 Shinanomachi, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 160-8582, Japan
- Laboratory of Photobiology, Keio University School of Medicine, 35 Shinanomachi, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 160-8582, Japan
| | - Shin-Ichi Ikeda
- Department of Ophthalmology, Keio University School of Medicine, 35 Shinanomachi, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 160-8582, Japan
- Laboratory of Photobiology, Keio University School of Medicine, 35 Shinanomachi, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 160-8582, Japan
| | - Erisa Yotsukura
- Department of Ophthalmology, Keio University School of Medicine, 35 Shinanomachi, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 160-8582, Japan
- Laboratory of Photobiology, Keio University School of Medicine, 35 Shinanomachi, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 160-8582, Japan
| | - Shizuka Koh
- Department of Ophthalmology, Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine, 2-2 Yamadaoka, Suita, Osaka 565-0871, Japan
| | - Toshihide Kurihara
- Department of Ophthalmology, Keio University School of Medicine, 35 Shinanomachi, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 160-8582, Japan.
- Laboratory of Photobiology, Keio University School of Medicine, 35 Shinanomachi, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 160-8582, Japan.
| | - Kohji Nishida
- Department of Ophthalmology, Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine, 2-2 Yamadaoka, Suita, Osaka 565-0871, Japan.
| | - Kazuo Tsubota
- Department of Ophthalmology, Keio University School of Medicine, 35 Shinanomachi, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 160-8582, Japan.
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Akbari-Fakhrabadi M, Najafi M, Mortazavian S, Rasouli M, Memari AH, Shidfar F. Effect of saffron (Crocus sativus L.) and endurance training on mitochondrial biogenesis, endurance capacity, inflammation, antioxidant, and metabolic biomarkers in Wistar rats. J Food Biochem 2019; 43:e12946. [PMID: 31368566 DOI: 10.1111/jfbc.12946] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2019] [Revised: 05/12/2019] [Accepted: 05/23/2019] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
We aimed to evaluate the effect of saffron (Crocus Sativus L.) treatment on endurance capacity, mitochondrial biogenesis, inflammation, antioxidant, and metabolic biomarkers in Wistar rats. Forty male rats were allocated equally into four groups: Saffron, Exercise and Saffron, Exercise and Placebo, and Placebo. Endurance training was accomplished on a specified rodent motor-driven treadmill. Running to fatigue test and also metabolic and molecular indices were measured after eight weeks of intervention. mtDNA copy number and NRF-1 gene expression increased significantly in the Ex + S group compared to the exercised and control group (p < 0.05). Endurance capacity time increased in the Ex + S group compared to the Ex group (p < 0.05). Malondialdehyde, CPK, AST, and IL-6 decreased and antioxidant parameters including Glutathione peroxidase and Glutathione increased in the Ex + S group compared to exercised rats (p < 0.01). Saffron enhanced mitochondrial biogenesis, decreased oxidative stress, inflammation, and modulated metabolic biomarkers in exercised rats. PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS: The influence of potential nutrient factors on exercise performance has reached much attention in recent years. Athletes require an appropriate sport supplement to reimburse their fatigue and improve their resilience. Saffron (Crocus Sativus L.) is a well-known spice in the food trade which is quite popular around the world by giving a desirable taste to food. In an experimental study, we showed that saffron extract treatment during endurance training could improve endurance capacity by modulating several metabolic and genomic factors. Therefore, by relying on the results of this study and the positive effects of saffron published in previous studies, saffron could be added to sport beverages and supplements to enhance an athlete's performance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maryam Akbari-Fakhrabadi
- Department of Nutrition, School of Public Health, International Campus, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohammad Najafi
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Medical Sciences, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Soudabehsadat Mortazavian
- Sports Medicine Research Center, Neuroscience Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mahboobeh Rasouli
- Department of Biostatistics, School of Public Health, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Amir-Hossein Memari
- Sports Medicine Research Center, Neuroscience Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Farzad Shidfar
- Department of Nutrition, School of Public Health, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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Vázquez-Fresno R, Rosana ARR, Sajed T, Onookome-Okome T, Wishart NA, Wishart DS. Herbs and Spices- Biomarkers of Intake Based on Human Intervention Studies - A Systematic Review. GENES AND NUTRITION 2019; 14:18. [PMID: 31143299 PMCID: PMC6532192 DOI: 10.1186/s12263-019-0636-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2018] [Accepted: 04/09/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Culinary herbs and spices have been used as both food flavoring and food preservative agents for centuries. Moreover, due to their known and presumptive health benefits, herbs and spices have also been used in medical practices since ancient times. Some of the health effects attributed to herbs and spices include antioxidant, anti-microbial, and anti-inflammatory effects as well as potential protection against cardiovascular disease, neurodegeneration, type 2 diabetes, and cancer. While interest in herbs and spices as medicinal agents remains high and their use in foods continues to grow, there have been remarkably few studies that have attempted to track the dietary intake of herbs and spices and even fewer that have tried to find potential biomarkers of food intake (BFIs). The aim of the present review is to systematically survey the global literature on herbs and spices in an effort to identify and evaluate specific intake biomarkers for a representative set of common herbs and spices in humans. A total of 25 herbs and spices were initially chosen, including anise, basil, black pepper, caraway, chili pepper, cinnamon, clove, cumin, curcumin, dill, fennel, fenugreek, ginger, lemongrass, marjoram, nutmeg, oregano, parsley, peppermint and spearmint, rosemary, saffron, sage, tarragon, and thyme. However, only 17 of these herbs and spices had published, peer-reviewed studies describing potential biomarkers of intake. In many studies, the herb or spice of interest was administrated in the form of a capsule or extract and very few studies were performed with actual foods. A systematic assessment of the candidate biomarkers was also performed. Given the limitations in the experimental designs for many of the published studies, further work is needed to better evaluate the identified set of BFIs. Although the daily intake of herbs and spices is very low compared to most other foods, this important set of food seasoning agents should not be underestimated, especially given their potential benefits to human health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rosa Vázquez-Fresno
- 1Department of Biological Sciences, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2E9 Canada
| | - Albert Remus R Rosana
- 1Department of Biological Sciences, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2E9 Canada
| | - Tanvir Sajed
- 2Department of Computing Science, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2E8 Canada
| | | | - Noah A Wishart
- 1Department of Biological Sciences, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2E9 Canada
| | - David S Wishart
- 1Department of Biological Sciences, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2E9 Canada.,2Department of Computing Science, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2E8 Canada
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Hashemi M, Hosseinzadeh H. A comprehensive review on biological activities and toxicology of crocetin. Food Chem Toxicol 2019; 130:44-60. [PMID: 31100302 DOI: 10.1016/j.fct.2019.05.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2018] [Revised: 05/09/2019] [Accepted: 05/11/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Natural products with high pharmacological potential and low toxicity have been considered as the novel therapeutic agents. Crocetin is an active constituent of saffron (Crocus sativus L.) stigma, which in its free-acid form is insoluble in water and most organic solvents. Crocetin exhibits various health-promoting properties including anti-tumor, neuroprotective effects, anti-diabetics, anti-inflammatory, anti-hyperlipidemia, etc. These therapeutic effects can be achieved with different mechanisms such as improvement of oxygenation in hypoxic tissues, antioxidant effects, inhibition of pro-inflammatory mediators, anti-proliferative activity and stimulation of apoptosis in cancer cells. It is also worth considering that crocetin could be tolerated without major toxicity at therapeutic dosage in experimental models. In the present review, we discuss the biosynthesis, pharmacokinetic properties of crocetin and provide a comprehensive study on the biological activities and toxicity along with the mechanism of actions and clinical trials data of crocetin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maryam Hashemi
- Nanotechnology Research Center, Pharmaceutical Technology Institute, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Hossein Hosseinzadeh
- Department of Pharmacodynamics and Toxicology, School of Pharmacy, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran; Pharmaceutical Research Center, Pharmaceutical Technology Institute, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran.
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Heitmar R, Brown J, Kyrou I. Saffron ( Crocus sativus L.) in Ocular Diseases: A Narrative Review of the Existing Evidence from Clinical Studies. Nutrients 2019; 11:nu11030649. [PMID: 30889784 PMCID: PMC6471055 DOI: 10.3390/nu11030649] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2019] [Revised: 03/10/2019] [Accepted: 03/13/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Saffron (Crocus sativus L.) and its main constituents, i.e., crocin and crocetin, are natural carotenoid compounds, which have been reported to possess a wide spectrum of properties and induce pleiotropic anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidative, and neuroprotective effects. An increasing number of experimental, animal, and human studies have investigated the effects and mechanistic pathways of these compounds in order to assess their potential therapeutic use in ocular diseases (e.g., in age related macular degeneration, glaucoma, and diabetic maculopathy). This narrative review presents the key findings of published clinical studies that examined the effects of saffron and/or its constituents in the context of ocular disease, as well as an overview of the proposed underlying mechanisms mediating these effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebekka Heitmar
- Aston University, School of Life and Health Sciences, Aston Triangle, Birmingham B4 7ET, UK.
| | - James Brown
- Aston University, School of Life and Health Sciences, Aston Triangle, Birmingham B4 7ET, UK.
| | - Ioannis Kyrou
- Aston Medical Research Institute, Aston Medical School, Aston University, Birmingham B4 7ET, UK.
- WISDEM, University Hospitals Coventry and Warwickshire NHS Trust, Coventry CV2 2DX, UK.
- Translational & Experimental Medicine, Division of Biomedical Sciences, Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick, Coventry CV4 7AL, UK.
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Moradzadeh M, Kalani MR, Avan A. The antileukemic effects of saffron (Crocus sativus L.) and its related molecular targets: A mini review. J Cell Biochem 2019; 120:4732-4738. [PMID: 30644127 DOI: 10.1002/jcb.27525] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2018] [Accepted: 07/30/2018] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Saffron (Crocus sativus L.), and its main constituents, crocin, and crocetin have shown promising effects as an antileukemic agent in animal models and cell culture systems. Saffron retards the growth of cancer cells via inhibiting nucleic acid synthesis and enhancing antioxidative system. It can induce apoptosis and chemosensitivity via inhibiting multidrug resistance proteins. Saffron also induces differentiation pathways via inhibiting promyelocytic leukemia/retinoic acid receptor-α, histone deacetylase1, and tyrosyl DNA phosphodiesterase-1 as well. The present review highlights the most recent findings on the antileukemic effects of saffron and its underlying molecular targets. The emerging evidence suggests that saffron has a selective toxicity effect against leukemic cells while is safe for the normal cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maliheh Moradzadeh
- Department of Rheumatology, Golestan Rheumatology Research Center, Golestan University of Medical Sciences, Gorgan, Iran
| | - Mohamad Reza Kalani
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois.,Department of Molecular Medicine, Golestan University of Medical Sciences, Gorgan, Iran
| | - Amir Avan
- Department of New Sciences and Technology, Metabolic Syndrome Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran.,Department of New Sciences and Technology, Cancer Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
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Christodoulou E, Grafakou ME, Skaltsa E, Kadoglou N, Kostomitsopoulos N, Valsami G. Preparation, chemical characterization and determination of crocetin's pharmacokinetics after oral and intravenous administration of saffron (Crocus sativus L.) aqueous extract to C57/BL6J mice. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2018; 71:753-764. [PMID: 30575029 DOI: 10.1111/jphp.13055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2018] [Accepted: 11/18/2018] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To prepare a lyophilized saffron aqueous extract (SFE) and determine its chemical profile and serum and tissue pharmacokinetics after intravenous and oral administration to C57/Bl6J mice. METHODS Lyophilized SFE was prepared, characterized using semi-preparative HPLC and NMR analysis, and stability studies at room temperature, and was quantified for crocin content with an HPLC-PDA method. After intravenous and oral administration of SFE (60 mg/kg, reconstituted with water for injection) to C57/Bl6J mice, crocetin (derived from in vivo crocin hydrolysis) serum and tissue levels (unconjugated and total) were measured with an HPLC-PDA method and subjected to compartmental and non-compartmental PK analysis. KEY FINDINGS Saffron aqueous extract was rich in all-trans-crocin (27.8 ± 0.1% w/w) and stable for more than 15 months. One-compartment PK model described crocetin's (unconjugated) kinetics after intravenous administration of SFE, while a first-order kinetic parameter described the rate of crocetin biotransformation to crocetin metabolite (conjugated). Α οne-compartment PK model with first-order absorption described crocetin and crocetin's metabolite kinetics after SFE oral administration. Relative oral bioavailability was calculated at 1.17 for total crocetin. Tissue NCA PK analysis revealed extensive crocetin distribution to liver and kidneys. CONCLUSIONS SFE is a stable lyophilized extract rich in all-trans-crocin. The PK study allowed the estimation of basic PK parameters and the bioavailability of SFE's main bioactive component, crocetin, after peros administration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eirini Christodoulou
- Laboratory of Biopharmaceutics and Pharmacokinetics, Department of Pharmacy, School of Health Sciences, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Maria-Eleni Grafakou
- Laboratory of Pharmacognosy and Natural Products Chemistry, Department of Pharmacy, School of Health Sciences, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Eleni Skaltsa
- Laboratory of Pharmacognosy and Natural Products Chemistry, Department of Pharmacy, School of Health Sciences, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | | | - Nikolaos Kostomitsopoulos
- Center of Clinical Experimental Surgery and Translational Research, Biomedical Research Foundation, Academy of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Georgia Valsami
- Laboratory of Biopharmaceutics and Pharmacokinetics, Department of Pharmacy, School of Health Sciences, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
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Ahmad B, Shrivastava VK, Saleh R, Henkel R, Agarwal A. Protective effects of saffron against zearalenone-induced alterations in reproductive hormones in female mice ( Mus musculus). Clin Exp Reprod Med 2018; 45:163-169. [PMID: 30538946 PMCID: PMC6277668 DOI: 10.5653/cerm.2018.45.4.163] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2018] [Revised: 10/02/2018] [Accepted: 10/16/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective Zearalenone (ZEA) is a mycotoxin with potent estrogenic effects. Saffron is an herbal product that has antioxidant activities. The objective of this study was to investigate the protective role of saffron against reproductive toxicity induced by ZEA in female mice. Methods Ninety 8-week-old female mice were randomly allocated into three treatment groups. The first group received an intraperitoneal injection of ZEA (2.5 mg/kg) on alternate days. The second group received ZEA (2.5 mg/kg) on alternate days plus oral saffron daily (50 mg/kg). The third group was treated with a vehicle of 1% dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) on alternate days, as a control. Ten mice were euthanized from each group at 30, 60, and 90 days of treatment. Serum levels of luteinizing hormone (LH), follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), estradiol (E2), and progesterone (P) were assessed. The uterus and ovaries were examined for changes in size or morphology. Results Serum levels of LH, FSH, E2, and P in the female mice treated with ZEA plus saffron were significantly higher than in those treated with ZEA alone, and were not significantly different from those treated with 1% DMSO. The female mice treated with ZEA alone showed a reduction in size of the uterus and abnormal architecture of the ovaries. Conclusion The administration of saffron to female mice resulted in a significant reduction in ZEA-induced alterations in reproductive hormone levels, the size of the uterus, and the morphology of the ovaries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bashir Ahmad
- Laboratory of Endocrinology, Department of Bioscience, Barkatullah University, Bhopal, India
| | - Vinoy K Shrivastava
- Laboratory of Endocrinology, Department of Bioscience, Barkatullah University, Bhopal, India
| | - Ramadan Saleh
- Department of Dermatology, Venereology and Andrology, Faculty of Medicine, Sohag University, Sohag, Egypt
| | - Ralf Henkel
- Department of Medical Bioscience, University of the Western Cape, Bellville, South Africa
| | - Ashok Agarwal
- American Center for Reproductive Medicine, Urological Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
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