Antinociceptive and Anti-Inflammatory Effects of the Saponin and Sapogenins Obtained from the Stem of Akebia quinata

Enhancement of oleanolic acid concentration through acid hydrolysis of saponin-rich extracts from Chenopodium berlandieri

The study investigated Chenopodium berlandieri to analyze its oleanolic acid (OA) content. Response surface methodology with central composite design was used to improve saponin extraction, varying temperature, ethanol, and sample-to-solvent ratio. Best conditions (65 °C, 50% ethanol, 1:10 ratio) yielded 53.45 ± 0.63 mg/g of extract from Huauzontle seeds. Temperature linearly impacted extract yield, while temperature and ethanol influenced total saponin content. Hydrolyzing saponin-rich extracts produced OA-rich extracts. Characterization via HPLC-ELSD and LC-MS identified OA4 as the most concentrated OA saponin (5.54 ± 0.16 mg/g). OA alone reached 2.02 ± 0.12 mg/g. Acid hydrolysis increased OA content by up to 3.27×, highlighting the potential of hydrolyzed Huauzontle extracts as a natural ingredient for various industries due to enhanced OA content.

Combination of Fenugreek and Quinoa Husk as Sources of Steroidal and Triterpenoid Saponins: Bioactivity of Their Co-Extracts and Hydrolysates

Saponins, both steroidal and triterpenoid, exhibit distinct bioactivities. However, they are not commonly found together in natural sources; instead, sources tend to be rich in one type or another and mainly in the form of saponins rather than the sapogenin aglycones. Developing co-extracts containing both saponin or sapogenin types would be a strategy to harness their respective bioactivities, yielding multibioactive extracts. Therefore, this study evaluates the bioactivity (hypolipidemic, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory activities) of co-extracts from fenugreek seeds (steroidal-rich saponins) and quinoa husk (triterpenoid-rich saponins), co-extracted at varying proportions, alongside their respective sapogenin-rich hydrolysates. Pancreatic lipase inhibition increased with fenugreek content in co-extracts, especially in sapogenin-rich variants. The latter substantially interfered with cholesterol bioaccessibility (90% vs. 15% in sapogenin-rich extracts). Saponin-rich co-extracts exhibited reduced cytokine release with increased fenugreek content, while sapogenin-rich counterparts showed greater reductions with higher quinoa husk content. Limited cellular antioxidant activities were observed in all extracts, with improved post-hydrolysis bioactivity. Therefore, simultaneous co-extraction of steroidal and triterpenoid sources, such as fenugreek and quinoa husk, as well as their subsequent hydrolysis, are innovative strategies for obtaining multibioactive natural extracts.

Pharmacological overview of hederagenin and its derivatives

Hederagenin is a pentacyclic triterpenoid isolated from plants and widely distributed in a variety of medicinal plants. By integrating and analyzing external related literature reports, the latest research progress on the pharmacological effects and structural modification of hederagenin was reviewed. Hederagenin has a wide range of pharmacological activities, including antitumor, anti-inflammatory, antidepressant, anti-neurodegenerative, antihyperlipidemic, antidiabetic, anti-leishmaniasis, and antiviral activities. Among them, it shows high potential in the field of anti-tumor treatment. This paper also reviews the structural modifications of hederagenin, including carboxyl group modifications and two hydroxyl group modifications. Future research on hederagenin will focus on prolonging its half-life, improving its bioavailability and structural modification to enhance its pharmacological activity, accelerating the preclinical research stage of hederagenin for it to enter the clinical research stage as soon as possible.

Structural properties and immune-enhancing activities of galactan isolated from red seaweed Grateloupia filicina

A water-soluble polysaccharide (GFP) was isolated from Grateloupia filicina and fractionated using a DEAE Sepharose Fast Flow column to evaluate immunostimulatory activity. Carbohydrates (62.0%-68.4%) and sulfates (29.3%-34.3%) were the major components of GFP and its fractions (GFP-1 and GFP-2), with relatively lower levels of proteins (4.5%-15.4%) and uronic acid (1.4%-3.9%). The average molecular weight (Mw ) for GFP and its fractions was calculated between 98.2%-243.7 kDa. The polysaccharides were composed of galactose (62.1%-87.2%), glucose (4.5%-33.2%), xylose (3.1%-5.3%), mannose (1.4%-2.2%), rhamnose (1.2%-2.0%), and arabinose (0.9%-1.7%) units connected through →3)-Galp-(1→, →4)-Galp-(1→, →2)-Galp-(1→, →6)-Galp-(1→, →3,4)-Galp -(1→, →3,6)-Galp-(1→, →4,6)-Galp-(1→, →3,4,6)-Galp-(1→, →2,3)-Galp-(1→, →2,4)-Galp-(1→, →4)-Glcp-(1→, →6)-Glcp-(1→ and →4,6)-Glcp-(1→residues. The isolated polysaccharides effectively induced RAW264.7 murine macrophages by releasing nitric oxide (NO) and various cytokines via nuclear factor kappa light chain enhancer of activated B cells (NF-κB) and mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling pathways. Further, the expression of toll-like receptor-2 (TLR-2) and TLR-4 in RAW264.7 cells indicated their activation through TLR-2 and TLR-4 binding receptors. Among the polysaccharides, GFP-1 highly stimulated the activation of RAW264.7 cells, which was mainly constituted of (→1) terminal-D-galactopyranosyl, (1→3)-linked-ᴅ-galactopyranosyl, (1→4)-linked-ᴅ-galactopyranosyl and (1→3,4) -linked-ᴅ-galactopyranosyl residues. These findings demonstrate that GFP-1 from G. filicina are effective at stimulating the immune system and this warrants further investigation to determine potential biomedical applications.

Papaver rhoeas L. stem and flower extracts: Anti-struvite, anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and antidepressant activities

The Papaver rhoeas L. (P. rhoeas) plant, which belongs to the Papaveraceae family, is also used as food and is exploited to treat several health problems. The purpose of this research is to determine the anti-struvite, anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and antidepressant effects of the stem extract (SE) and flower extract (FE) of the plant P. rhoeas. We used polarizing microscopy and Fourier transform infrared spectrometry (FT-IR) to evaluate the anti-struvite effect of our plant. The edema approach induced by the carrageenan molecule was used to study the anti-inflammatory impact of our extracts. The analgesic test was determined by calculating the number of abdominal contractions induced by the intraperitoneal (IP) administration of acetic acid. To evaluate the antidepressant effect of our extracts, we used the forced swimming test (FST). According to the results of the secondary metabolite extraction, both extracts contained high contents of secondary metabolites, while the results of the screening test showed that flavonoids, alkaloids, phenols, tannins, coumarins, saponins, and terpenoids were present. The result of struvite crystallization inhibition observed by polarizing microscopy and FT-IR shows the inhibition of struvite crystal aggregation by SE by decreasing the amount and size of crystals in a manner similar to cystone. The results of anti-inflammatory activity show maximum inhibition of edema after six hours of carrageenan injection in rats (T₆) for all extracts, with a maximum value of 86.36% for SE at the dose of 200 mg/kg. Regarding the analgesic effect of our plant, the lowest number of abdominal contractions was observed in rats treated with SE at a dose of 400 mg/kg. The FST results show that the lowest immobilization time was observed in rats treated with FE at a dose of 400 mg/kg. The results obtained show that the flowers and stems of P. rhoeas can constitute a rich source of bioactive molecules with potential pharmaceutical applications.

Health benefits of saponins and its mechanisms: perspectives from absorption, metabolism, and interaction with gut

Saponins, consisting of sapogenins as their aglycones and carbohydrate chains, are widely found in plants and some marine organisms. Due to the complexity of the structure of saponins, involving different types of sapogenins and sugar moieties, investigation of their absorption and metabolism is limited, which further hinders the explanation of their bioactivities. Large molecular weight and complex structures limit the direct absorption of saponins rendering their low bioavailability. As such, their major modes of action may be due to interaction with the gastrointestinal environment, such as enzymes and nutrients, and interaction with the gut microbiota. Many studies have reported the interaction between saponins and gut microbiota, that is, the effects of saponins on changing the composition of gut microbiota, and gut microbiota playing an indispensable role in the biotransformation of saponins into sapogenins. However, the metabolic routes of saponins by gut microbiota and their mutual interactions are still sparse. Thus, this review summarizes the chemistry, absorption, and metabolic pathways of saponins, as well as their interactions with gut microbiota and impacts on gut health, to better understand how saponins exert their health-promoting functions.

Ceratonia siliqua leaves ethanol extracts exert anti-nociceptive and anti-inflammatory effects

Background

Ceratonia siliqua L. (Leguminosae) has neuroprotective, mutagenic, hypotensive, anti-bacterial, hypoglycaemic, and anti-inflammatory effects through extracts from its leaves. Therefore, the aim of this study is to assess the anti-nociceptive activity of ethanol extracts of Ceratonia siliqua leaves.

Methods

Ethanol extract of Ceratonia siliqua leaves were studied using well-established animal models of inflammation and pain. A hot plate latency assay (55 °C) was used to assess the analgesic effect of 10, 31.6, 100, and 316 mg/kg doses of ethanol extracts in addition to paw licking time in early and late phase using a formalin-induced paw licking assay test. Paw oedema induction using carrageenan and cotton pellet granuloma assays were used to assess the anti-inflammatory effect of 10, 31.6, 100, and 316 mg/kg doses of ethanol extract.

Results

The ethanol extract of Ceratonia siliqua leaves reduces paw licking time in early and late phase after formalin injection. The same effect was also observed when the hotplate test was performed. Ethanol extract of Ceratonia siliqua leaves caused dose dependent inhibition in paw oedema after the injection of carrageenan and cotton pellet granuloma in mice. These effects were not antagonized when opioid receptors were blocked by naloxone (5 mg/kg). The preliminary phytochemical analysis of the ethanol extract of Ceratonia siliqua leaves showed the presence of tannins, alkaloids, flavonoids and terpenoids.

Conclusion

The present data indicate that ethanol extract of Ceratonia siliqua leaves might possess anti-inflammatory and anti-nociception properties and should be considered for further therapeutic research.

Phenolic Profile and Fingerprint Analysis of Akebia quinata Leaves Extract with Endothelial Protective Activity

In contrast to the stem and fruit of Akebia quinata, A. quinata leaves as a source rich in phenolic compounds with potentially beneficial pharmacological activities have been largely overlooked. To develop and use A. quinata leaves as a resource, we evaluated its potential as a cardiovascular-protective agent. Herein, we investigated the effects and potential mechanisms of A. quinata leaves extract on lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced inflammatory responses in human umbilical vein endothelial cells. We found that A. quinata leaves extract pretreatment of 10 μg/mL significantly attenuated LPS-induced protein expression of intercellular adhesion molecule-1, vascular cell adhesion molecule-1. Furthermore, this extract also suppressed LPS-induced phosphorylation of nuclear factor-κB p65. In order to elucidate the chemical profiles of the samples, the HPLC fingerprint was established, and prominent peaks were identified via HPLC–electrospray ionization–mass spectrometry. Multivariate statistical analyses, including hierarchical cluster analysis, principal component analysis, and partial least-squares discriminant analysis, were performed to evaluate the clustering of the samples. It was found that isochlorogenic acid C was a key marker for the classification of A. quinata leaves from the Gongju and Muju city in Korea. Collectively, this study not only suggested the potential of A. quinata leaves as a novel therapeutic candidate for inflammatory cardiovascular disease but also developed a quality control method for A. quinata leaves, which could help to expand the application of A. quinata.

Comparative Analysis of Akebia trifoliata Fruit Softening at Different Flesh Ripening Stages Using Tandem Mass Tag Technology

Owing to its medicinal and high nutritional values, Akebia trifoliata can be considered as a new type of medicinal and edible homologous resources, and it has begun to be widely cultivated in many areas of China. Over-softening of fruit would affect the sensorial quality, utilization rate, and consumer acceptance of the fruit postharvest. However, fruit softening has not been characterized and the molecular mechanism underlying A. trifoliata fruit softening during ripening remains unclear. A comparative proteomic analysis was performed on the fruit at three developmental stages using tandem mass tag technology. In total, 2,839 proteins and 302 differentially abundant proteins (DAPs) were identified. Bioinformatics analysis indicated that most DAPs were implicated in oxidoreductase activity, protein domain-specific binding and pyruvate metabolism. Moreover, 29 DAPs associated with cell wall metabolism, plant hormone, and stress and defense response pathways were validated using quantitative PCR. Notably, pectinesterase, pectate lyase, and β-galactosidase, which are involved in cell wall degradation, as well as gibberellin regulated protein, cysteine protease, thaumatin-like protein and heat shock proteins which is involved in plant hormone, and stress and defense response, were significantly up-regulated in softening fruit compared with the levels in non-softening fruit. This indicated that they might play key roles in A. trifoliata fruit softening. Our findings will provide new insights into potential genes influencing fruit softening traits of A. trifoliata, which will help to develop strategies to improve fruit quality and reduce softening-related losses.

Efficacy of Longdan Xiegan Decoction on the Treatment of Eczema: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Background

Longdan Xiegan decoction (LDXGD) has been widely used in the treatment of eczema. In recent years, randomized controlled trials (RCTs) of LDXGD for the treatment of eczema have gradually increased. Most of the results show that LDXGD is effective in treating eczema. However, whether these conclusions are reliable or not requires meta-analysis.

Objective

This study aimed to systematically evaluate the clinical efficacy of LDXGD in the treatment of eczema.

Materials and Methods

Seven electronic databases, including PubMed, Excerpta Medica Database (EMBASE), Cochrane Library, Chinese Biomedical Literature on Disc (CBM), China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), WanFang, and Chinese Science and Technology Periodical Database (VIP) were systematically searched from their inception until January 2021. Risk of bias was assessed using criteria from the Cochrane Collaboration and meta-analysis was conducted on the screened literature data using Review Manage (RevMan 5.3). Then, to assess the quality of evidence, the GRADE criteria was adopted.

Results

14 RCTs with 1080 participants were identified. Meta-analysis indicated that compared with western medicine (WM), the cure rate and the total effective rate of LDXGD in treating eczema were higher. Meanwhile, the recurrence rate and the levels of interleukin-6 (IL-6), interleukin-8 (IL-8), and tumor necrosis factor (TNF-α) after treatment were lower. The adverse reaction was reported in 5 out of 14 studies without significant statistical difference. According to GRADE criteria, the quality of evidence was low for all outcomes except for the cure rate (moderate-quality evidence) and the total effective rate (moderate-quality evidence).

Conclusion

The clinical efficacy of LDXGD in the treatment of eczema was more effective compared with the one of conventional WM alone. However, due to the limitation of the quality of the included studies, additional studies are required to further confirm these results.

Anti-nociceptive, anti-inflammatory and possible mechanism of anti-nociceptive action of methanol leaf extract of Nymphaea lotus Linn (Nymphaeceae)

The leaf of Nymphaea lotus has been used traditionally for the management of pain and inflammatory diseases. The methanol leaf extract of Nymphaea lotus (NLE) was evaluated for possible anti-nociceptive and anti-inflammatory activities in rats and mice (at the doses of 250, 500 and 1,000 mg/kg) to investigate the existence of scientific basis for the folkloric use of the plant. The standard drugs used were piroxicam (10 mg/kg) and morphine (10 mg/kg). The possible pharmacological mechanism involved in the anti-nociceptive activity was also investigated. The acute toxicity was determined in mice and rats using method of Lorke. The anti-nociceptive activity was evaluated using acetic acid-induced writhing and hot plate tests in mice, while the anti-inflammatory activity was evaluated using carrageenan-induced hind paw edema model in rats. The oral median lethal dose of NLE was found to be greater than 5,000 mg/kg in rats and mice. NLE demonstrated significant and dose-dependent protection against acetic acid induced writhes and increased the reaction time of mice in hot plate test. Pretreatment of the animals with naloxone (2 mg/kg) significantly (p < 0.05) attenuated the anti-nociception elicited by both NLE and morphine. NLE at the doses of 250 and 1,000 mg/kg significantly (p < 0.05) decreased rat paw edema at the 2nd hour in the carrageenan-induced paw edema test. The result of the study revealed that Nymphaea lotus possesses anti-nociceptive activities which may be mediated via the opioidergic system as well as mild anti-inflammatory activities thus providing scientific basis for the use of the plant in the management of pain and inflammatory diseases.

Structural properties and in vitro and in vivo immunomodulatory activity of an arabinofuranan from the fruits of Akebia quinata

In our continuous searching for natural active polysaccharides with immunomodulatory activity, an arabinofuranan (AQP70-3) was isolated and purified from the fruits of Akebia quinata (Houtt.) Decne. by using ion-exchange chromatography and gel permeation chromatography for the first time. AQP70-3 contained both α-l-Araf and β-l-Araf, and the absolute molecular weight was 1.06 × 10⁴ g/mol. The backbone of AQP70-3 comprised →5)-α-l-Araf-(1→, →3,5)-α-l-Araf-(1→, and →2,5)-α-l-Araf-(1→, with branches of →1)-β-l-Arafand →3)-α-l-Araf-(1→ residues. Biological assay suggested that AQP70-3 can stimulate phagocytic activity and promote the levels of nitric oxide (NO), interleukin (IL)-6, IL-1β, and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) of RAW264.7 cells. Furthermore, AQP70-3 was found to increase the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and NO in zebrafish embryo model.

Efficacy and Safety of Blood Stasis Based Herbal Medicine for Patients with Traffic Accident : A Prospective Observational Study

Background: Blood stasis (BS) is commonly used for pattern identification in traumatic injuries, including traffic accidents (TAs). Various studies have identified the efficacy of Korean medicine treatments for TA patients, but studies focusing on the BS-based herbal medicine (BSHM), including Tongdo-san (TDS), are rare.<br/>Methods: This was a single-center, prospective observational study, conducted from August 24th, 2018 to December 27th, 2018, which included 40 TA patients. Participants underwent routine Korean medicine treatments including acupuncture, electronic moxibustion, cupping, physical therapy, and herbal medicine. In the herbal medicine treatment, participants took BSHM with more than 3 days including taking TDS. The primary outcome measures were the scores from a 100 mm visual analogue scale (VAS) and numerical rating scale (NRS). Secondary outcome measures included scores from EuroQol-5 dimension (EQ-5D) and EQVAS questionnaires, the BS and cold/heat indices, and safety assessments.<br/>Results: There were significant improvements in the VAS, NRS, EQ-5D, EQ-VAS scores, and BS index after treatment. In the sub-analysis, VAS, NRS, EQ-5D, and EQ-VAS scores were higher in groups with a higher BS index. The moderate and severe BS index groups showed more improvement than the minor BS index group, and there was a significant difference in the EQ-5D scores. There was no significant differences observed in cold/heat index groups scores.<br/>Conclusion: BS is associated with TA-related symptoms. BSHM, including TDS, may significantly reduce BS, pain, and discomfort.

Pseudocereal grains: Nutritional value, health benefits and current applications for the development of gluten-free foods

Nowadays, consumers are more conscious of the environmental and nutritional benefits of foods. Pseudocereals grains, edible seeds belonging to dicotyledonous plant species, are becoming a current trend in human diets as gluten-free (GF) grains with excellent nutritional and nutraceutical value. Pseudocereals are a good source of starch, fiber, proteins, minerals, vitamins, and phytochemicals such as saponins, polyphenols, phytosterols, phytosteroids, and betalains with potential health benefits. The present review aims to summarize the nutritional quality and phytochemical profile of the three main pseudocereal grains: quinoa, amaranth and buckwheat. In addition, current evidence about their health benefits in animal models and human studies is also provided in detail. Based on the accumulating research supporting the inclusion of pseudocereals grains in the diet of celiac persons, this review discusses the recent advances in their application for the development of new GF products. Future directions for a wider cultivation and commercial exploitation of these crops are also highlighted.

The profiling of bioactives in Akebia trifoliata pericarp and metabolites, bioavailability and in vivo anti-inflammatory activities in DSS-induced colitis mice

The fruit of Akebia trifoliata is popular in Asia, but researches concerning the phytochemicals of A. trifoliate pericarp extract (APE) and their metabolites, bioavailability, metabolism and anti-inflammatory activity in vivo are less known. In the present study, the chemical constituents of APE and their metabolites of rats after oral administration were identified using UPLC-LTQ-Orbitrap-MS/MS. A total of 18 compounds were tentatively characterized in APE, while 8 original compounds and 8 metabolites were observed in plasma, and 10 original compounds and 39 metabolites were detected in urine. Deglycosylation, glucuronidation, methylation and sulfation were the reactions that mainly occurred in the metabolism in vivo. Meanwhile, APE supplementation decreased dextran sulphate sodium (DSS)-induced colitis in mice, ameliorating epithelial barrier disruption, suppressing the proliferation and infiltration of immune cells, modulating the secretion of nitric oxide (NO) and prostaglandin E2 (PGE2), decreasing the expression of nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) and cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) as well as regulating oxidative stress in vivo. The results suggested that APE triterpenoids and their metabolites as major contributors to anti-inflammatory activities, providing a scientific basis for the use of APE as a functional food to ameliorate colon health in humans.

A four-step filtering strategy based on ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography coupled to quadrupole-time-of-flight tandem mass spectrometry for comprehensive profiling the major chemical constituents of Akebiae Fructus

RATIONALE

Akebiae Fructus (AF) is a traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) with antiphlogistic, analgesic, antineoplastic, diuretic, antirheumatic, antidepressant and antiobesity activities. Identification of chemical constituents from AF is helpful to discover the potential active ingredients and to control its quality.

METHODS

The four-step filtering strategy was as follows: (1) To extract the accurate mass by the different adduct ions. (2) To screen different types of the compounds using diagnostic ions. (3) By characteristic ion filtering, to confirm the substituted position and the sugar chain numbers. (4) Based on the neutral loss (NL), to identify the type of monosaccharide and the compositions of sugar chains of triterpenoid saponins and the structure of CGAs.

RESULTS

A total of 94 compounds (85 triterpenoid saponins, 9 chlorogenic acids) were unambiguously or reasonably identified. Fifty constituents were discovered for the first time from AF. Nine types of triterpenoid saponins, including akebonoic acid (type I), norhederagenin (type II), oleanolic acid (type III), 2α,3β-dihydroxy-23-oxo-30-norolean-12,20(21)-dien-28-oic acid (type IV), gypsogenin (type V), norarjunolic acid (type VI), hederagenin (type VII), 2α,3β-dihydroxy-23-oxo-olean-12-en-28-oic acid (type VIII), arjunolic acid (type IX), and two types of chlorogenic acid (mono-CQA and di-CQA), were identified in AF.

CONCLUSIONS

An ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography coupled to quadrupole-time-of-flight tandem mass spectrometry with MS^E (UPLC-QTOF-MS^E ) analysis with four-step filtering strategy was established and successfully applied to identify the chemical constituents of AF which can provide chemical support for further research and play an important role in the quality control of AF.

Acid hydrolysis of saponin-rich extracts of quinoa, lentil, fenugreek and soybean to yield sapogenin-rich extracts and other bioactive compounds

BACKGROUND

Typical hydrolysis times of saponins generally do not take into consideration the effect of time on the degradation of the target compounds, namely sapogenins. When producing natural extracts, it should be borne in mind that conducting hydrolysis to yield a target compound might also affect the final composition of the extracts in terms of other bioactive compounds. In our study, saponin-rich extracts from fenugreek, quinoa, lentil, and soybean were produced and their acid hydrolysis to give sapogenin-rich extracts was conducted over different periods (0-6 h). The disappearance of saponins and appearance of sapogenins was analyzed using high-performance liquid chromatography-diode array detection-mass spectrometry (HPLC-DAD-MS) and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS), respectively. The impact of hydrolysis on the phytosterols and tocopherol in the extracts was also evaluated.

RESULTS

Fenugreek showed the highest saponin content (169 g kg-1 ), followed by lentil (20 g kg-1 ), quinoa (15 g kg-1 ), and soybean (13 g kg-1 ). Hydrolysis for 1 h caused the complete disappearance of saponins and the greatest release of sapogenins. Hydrolyzed fenugreek and quinoa extracts contained the highest amounts of sapogenins and minor fractions of phytosterols and tocopherol. Hydrolyzed extracts of lentil and soybean contained a major fraction of phytosterols and a low fraction of sapogenins. In all cases, sapogenins decreased after 1 h of hydrolysis, phytosterols slightly decreased, and tocopherol was unaffected. Standards of diosgenin and oleanolic acid also showed this decreasing pattern under acid hydrolysis conditions.

CONCLUSION

Hydrolysis times of 1 h for saponin-rich extracts from the assayed seeds guarantee the maximum transformation to sapogenin-rich extracts, along with phytosterols and tocopherol. Fenugreek and quinoa seeds are preferred for this. © 2018 Society of Chemical Industry.

Albiflorin inhibits the formation of THP-1-derived foam cells through the LOX-1/NF-κB pathway

BACKGROUND

Foam cells are characteristic pathologic cells of atherosclerosis (AS), they are lipid-loaded macrophages present on atherosclerotic lesions. A large number of studies has shown that the pathogenesis of AS is the result of interactions between the lipid metabolism disorders and chronic inflammatory responses in the body. Albiflorin can inhibit the inflammatory response and it has shown a therapeutic effect on certain inflammatory diseases.

METHODS

In this study, a human acute monocytic leukemia cell line (THP-1)-derived foam cell model was established via oxidized low-density lipoprotein (ox-LDL) to observe the effects of albiflorin on the AS-characteristic foam cells.

RESULTS

Our results showed that, after the treatment with ox-LDL, macrophages induced by propylene glycol methyl ether acetate (PMA), presented large amounts of lipid deposition in their cytoplasm, indicating that the THP-1-derived foam cell model was successfully established. On the other hand, the same cells pretreated with albiflorin presented significantly reduced amounts of lipid deposition, and their contents of total cholesterol and triglyceride were also clearly lower. Besides, the expression levels of low-density lipoprotein receptor-1 (LOX-1) and nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) were significantly decreased, and the expression levels of downstream factors interleukin-6 (IL-6) and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) were also obviously decreased in the cells treated with albiflorin but not in the negative control cells. Moreover, after treatment of macrophages with different concentrations of ox-LDL, the expression levels of LOX-1 and NF-κB were up-regulated in an ox-LDL concentration-dependent manner, and so were the expression levels of IL-6 and TNF-α. And, it was found after treatment with LOX-1 neutralizing antibody or NF-κB inhibitor (during the foam cell formation induction via ox-LDL) that the lipid deposition in the cytoplasm of the cells was reduced, as in the cells treated with albiflorin.

CONCLUSIONS

Taken together, our findings suggest that albiflorin decreases lipid deposition in the cytoplasm and blocks the foaming process by regulating the LOX-1/NF-κB signaling pathway.

Water-soluble polysaccharides from Ulva intestinalis : Molecular properties, structural elucidation and immunomodulatory activities

Water-soluble sulfated polysaccharides extracted from Ulva intestinalis and fractionated using DEAE Sepharose fast flow column to identify their molecular properties and macrophage cells stimulating activities. Crude and fractions (F₁ and F₂) were formed of neutral sugars (58.7–74.7%), sulfates (6.2–24.5%), uronic acids (4.9–5.9%) and proteins (3.2–10.4%). Different levels of sugar constituents including rhamnose (30.1–39.1%), glucose (39.0–48.4%), galactose (0.0–15.8%), xylose (8.5–11.3) and arabinose (0.0–5.1%). The molecular weight (M_w) of crude and fractionated polysaccharides ranged from 87.1 × 10³ to 194.1 × 10³ (g/mol). Crude polysaccharides were not toxic to RAW264.7 cells and fractions induced cell proliferation. Fraction F₁ stimulated RAW264.7 cells to release considerable amounts of nitric oxide, IL-1β, TNF-α, IL-6, IL-10 and IL-12 cytokines. The main backbone of the most immunostimulating polysaccharide (F₁) was consisted of mixed linkages of (1 → 2)-linked rhamnose and (1 → 2)-linked glucose residues.

Antinociceptive Activity of Methanolic Extract of Clinacanthus nutans Leaves: Possible Mechanisms of Action Involved

Methanolic extract of Clinacanthus nutans Lindau leaves (MECN) has been proven to possess antinociceptive activity that works via the opioid and NO-dependent/cGMP-independent pathways. In the present study, we aimed to further determine the possible mechanisms of antinociception of MECN using various nociceptive assays. The antinociceptive activity of MECN was (i) tested against capsaicin-, glutamate-, phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate-, bradykinin-induced nociception model; (ii) prechallenged against selective antagonist of opioid receptor subtypes (β-funaltrexamine, naltrindole, and nor-binaltorphimine); (iii) prechallenged against antagonist of nonopioid systems, namely, α₂-noradrenergic (yohimbine), β-adrenergic (pindolol), adenosinergic (caffeine), dopaminergic (haloperidol), and cholinergic (atropine) receptors; (iv) prechallenged with inhibitors of various potassium channels (glibenclamide, apamin, charybdotoxin, and tetraethylammonium chloride). The results demonstrated that the orally administered MECN (100, 250, and 500 mg/kg) significantly (p < 0.05) reversed the nociceptive effect of all models in a dose-dependent manner. Moreover, the antinociceptive activity of 500 mg/kg MECN was significantly (p < 0.05) inhibited by (i) antagonists of μ-, δ-, and κ-opioid receptors; (ii) antagonists of α₂-noradrenergic, β-adrenergic, adenosinergic, dopaminergic, and cholinergic receptors; and (iii) blockers of different K⁺ channels (voltage-activated-, Ca²⁺-activated, and ATP-sensitive-K⁺ channels, resp.). In conclusion, MECN-induced antinociception involves modulation of protein kinase C-, bradykinin-, TRVP1 receptors-, and glutamatergic-signaling pathways; opioidergic, α₂-noradrenergic, β-adrenergic, adenosinergic, dopaminergic, and cholinergic receptors; and nonopioidergic receptors as well as the opening of various K⁺ channels. The antinociceptive activity could be associated with the presence of several flavonoid-based bioactive compounds and their synergistic action with nonvolatile bioactive compounds.

Evaluation of antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, analgesic and antipyretic activities of the stem bark of Sapindus mukorossi

BACKGROUND

Saponins are the main constituents of genus Sapindus and have the therapeutic potential for inflammatory disorders. In this study the antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, analgesic and antipyretic potential of the stem bark of soap nut (Sapindus mukorossi) methanol extract and its derived fractions has been investigated.

METHODS

Powder of stem bark of the S. mukorossi was extracted with methanol (SMM) and fractionated in order of n-hexane (SMH), chloroform (SMC), ethyl acetate (SME), n-butanol (SMB) and the remaining as aqueous fraction (SMA). Quantitative estimation for the total phenolic and total flavonoid content was carried out in all the extract/fractions. Further, various in vitro antioxidant assays were also performed. Anti-inflammatory (Carrageenan induced paw edema), analgesic (hot plate latency test) and antipyretic (rectal temperature) were determined in Sprague-Dawley rat.

RESULTS

Quantitative estimation of total phenolic contents in extract/fractions varied between 252.3 ± 2.41 mg of GAE/g - 594.16 ± 4.3 mg of GAE/g while the total flavonoids estimated were from 11.02 ± 1.3 mg of RUE/g to 96.9 ± 3.2 mg of RUE/g. Standard antioxidant assays such as scavenging of DPPH, hydroxyl radical, nitric oxide, phosphomolybdenum assay, reducing power, inhibition of β-carotene bleaching, iron chelation activity and inhibition of heat induced protein denaturation indicated the antioxidant potential of the extract/fractions. Carrageenan induced paw edema of rat was effectively inhibited by SMA at 300 mg/kg administration to rat (84.19 ± 1.48%) after 3 h and analgesia (latency time) in hot plate test (55.78 ± 1.22%) after 120 min. SMA at 300 mg/kg distinctly decreased the rectal temperature in brewer's yeast (Saccharomyces cerevisiae) induced pyrexia in rat.

CONCLUSION

The resulted obtained in this study suggested the therapeutic importance of stem bark of S. mukorossi in inflammatory related disorders.

Effects of the molecular weight and protein and sulfate content of Chlorella ellipsoidea polysaccharides on their immunomodulatory activity

We investigated the effects of the protein and sulfate content, as well as the molecular weight (M_w), of green alga Chlorella ellipsoidea polysaccharides on their immunomodulatory activity. The deproteinized (DP_1-3), desulfated (DS_1-3), and hydrolyzed (DH_1-3) derivatives of C. ellipsoidea polysaccharides were prepared by enzymatic hydrolysis, desulfation, and acid hydrolysis, respectively, of differing durations, resulting in preparations containing various amounts of proteins (2.41%-8.97%), sulfates (1.36%-4.89%), and M_w (51.5-193.4kDa). The DH_1-3-induced production of nitric oxide (NO) by RAW264.7 cells, decreased as the M_w of DH_1-3 decreased. In addition, the sulfate content and M_w of DS_1-3 affected the release of NO. However, lower protein content did not affect DP_1-3-induced NO release and cytokine mRNA expression in RAW264.7 cells. Based on a multiple regression analysis of the effects of protein content, sulfate content, and M_w, on NO release, we found that M_w was a key factor for the stimulation of RAW264.7 cells, as it affected cytokine production, and activation of the nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) and mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathways. Therefore, the M_w of C. ellipsoidea polysaccharides played an important role in their immunomodulatory activities.

Effects of extraction methods on molecular characteristics, antioxidant properties and immunomodulation of alginates from Sargassum angustifolium

The relationship between molecular structure and bioactivity was evaluated for alginates obtained under different extraction methods (water, acid, alcalase and cellulase) from Sargassum angustifolium. The use of enzymes considerably reduced protein (from 14.58% to <0.4%) and polyphenol (from 16.0% to <1.7mg GA/g sample) contaminations of alginates compared to those of water and acid. The FT-IR spectrum revealed that extraction method did not affect the structure of the recovered alginates. The highest molecular weight (Mw) (557.1×103g/mol) was found in acid treated alginate while the Mw of cellulase assistant alginate (356.2×103g/mol) was the minimum. The SVg values varied from 2.79-5.17cm3/g revealing the loosed conformational structures of alcalase and cellulase assistant alginates. Alcalase assistant alginate stimulated RAW264.7 cells to release nitric oxide and inflammatory cytokines TNF-α, IL-1, IL-6, IL-10 and IL-12. Enzyme treated alginates showed maximum DPPH radical scavenging activity and reducing power. Therefore, the present results showed the determinant effect of pretreatment during the extraction process of alginate and the beneficial influence of enzymatic process when biological functions of alginates are of high interest in the industry.

Microbial transformation of hederagenin by Cunninghamella echinulate, Mucor subtilissimus, and Pseudomonas oleovorans

The pentacyclic triterpenoid hederagenin (1) was subjected to biotransformation by Cunninghamella echinulate CGMCC 3.2000, Mucor subtilissimus CGMCC 3.2454 and Pseudomonas oleovorans CGMCC 1.1641. Three metabolites were obtained. On the basis of nuclear magnetic resonance and high-resolution mass spectral analyses, their structures were characterized as 3β, 23-dihydroxyolean-12-en-28-oic acid 28-O-β-D-glucopyranosyl ester (2), 3β, 15α, 23-trihydroxyolean-12-en-28-oic acid (3), 1β, 3β, 23-trihydroxyolean-12-en-28-oic acid (4), and metabolite (3) was a new compound. This was the first report on the biotransformation of hederagenin.

Capsular Polysaccharide is a Main Component of Mycoplasma ovipneumoniae in the Pathogen-Induced Toll-Like Receptor-Mediated Inflammatory Responses in Sheep Airway Epithelial Cells

Mycoplasma ovipneumoniae (M. ovipneumoniae) is characterized as an etiological agent of primary atypical pneumonia that specifically infects sheep and goat. In an attempt to better understand the pathogen-host interaction between the invading M. ovipneumoniae and airway epithelial cells, we investigated the host inflammatory responses against capsular polysaccharide (designated as CPS) of M. ovipneumoniae using sheep bronchial epithelial cells cultured in an air-liquid interface (ALI) model. Results showed that CPS derived from M. ovipneumoniae could activate toll-like receptor- (TLR-) mediated inflammatory responses, along with an elevated expression of nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB), activator protein-1 (AP-1), and interferon regulatory factor 3 (IRF3) as well as various inflammatory-associated mediators, representatively including proinflammatory cytokines, such as IL1β, TNFα, and IL8, and anti-inflammatory cytokines such as IL10 and TGFβ of TLR signaling cascade. Mechanistically, the CPS-induced inflammation was TLR initiated and was mediated by activations of both MyD88-dependent and MyD88-independent signaling pathways. Of importance, a blockage of CPS with specific antibody led a significant reduction of M. ovipneumoniae-induced inflammatory responses in sheep bronchial epithelial cells. These results suggested that CPS is a key virulent component of M. ovipneumoniae, which may play a crucial role in the inflammatory response induced by M. ovipneumoniae infections.

Oleanane triterpenoids from Akebiae Caulis exhibit inhibitory effects on Aβ42 induced fibrillogenesis

Previous phytochemical investigations of Akebiae Caulis resulted in the isolation of triterpenes, triterpene glycosides, phenylethanoid glycosides and megastigmane glycoside. Amyloid beta (Aβ), the main component of the senile plaques detected in Alzheimer's disease, induces cell death. However, only a limited number of studies have addressed the biological and pharmacological effects of Akebiae Caulis. In particular, the inhibitory activity of Akebiae Caulis against Aβ42 fibrillogenesis remains unclear. Herein, a new triterpene glycoside, akequintoside F (1), along with nine known compounds pulsatilla saponin A (2), collinsonidin (3), akebonic acid (4), hederagenin (5), 1-(3',4'-dihydroxycinnamoyl) cyclopentane-2,3-diol (6), asperosaponin C (7), leontoside A (8), quinatic acid (9), and quinatoside A (10) were isolated from Akebiae Caulis using repeated column chromatography with silica gel, LiChroprep RP-18, and MCI gel. The chemical structures of compounds 1-10 were illustrated based on 1D and 2D NMR spectroscopy, including ¹H-¹H COSY, HSQC, HMBC and NOESY spectroscopic analyses. Compound 1 a novel compound and known compounds 6 and 7 were isolated for the first time from this plant. Among these compounds, 1, 3, 4, 5 and 7 displayed significant inhibitory effects on Aβ42 induced fibrillogenesis. We present the first report of new compound 1 and the inhibitory effects of components from Akebiae Caulis on Aβ42 fibrillogenesis.

Anti-atherosclerotic plants which modulate the phenotype of vascular smooth muscle cells

BACKGROUND

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) remains the leading cause of global death, with atherosclerosis being a major contributor to this mortality. Several mechanisms are implicated in the pathogenesis of this disease. A key element in the development and progression of atherosclerotic lesions is the phenotype of vascular smooth muscle cells. Under pathophysiologic conditions such as injury, these cells switch from a contractile to a synthetic phenotype that often possesses high proliferative and migratory capacities.

PURPOSE

Despite major advances made in the management and treatment of atherosclerosis, mortality associated with this disease remains high. This mandates that other approaches be sought. Herbal medicine, especially for the treatment of CVD, has been gaining more attention in recent years. This is in no small part due to the evidence-based values associated with the consumption of many plants as well as the relatively cheaper prices, easier access and conventional folk medicine "inherited" over generations. Sections: In this review, we provide a brief introduction about the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis then we highlight the role of vascular smooth muscle cells in this disease, especially when a phenotypic switch of these cells arises. We then thoroughly discuss the various plants that show potentially beneficial effects as anti-atherosclerotic, with prime attention given to herbs and plants that inhibit the phenotypic switch of vascular smooth muscle cells.

CONCLUSION

Accumulating evidence provides the justification for the use of botanicals in the treatment or prevention of atherosclerosis. However, further studies, especially clinical ones, are warranted to better define several pharmacological parameters of these herbs, such as toxicity, tolerability, and efficacy.

RAW264.7 Cell Activating Glucomannans Extracted from Rhizome of Polygonatum sibiricum

Water-soluble polysaccharides isolated from the rhizome of Polygonatum sibiricum and fractionated using ion-exchange chromatography were investigated to determine their structure and immunostimulating activity. Crude and fractions (F₁ and F₂) consisted of carbohydrates (85.1~88.3%) with proteins (4.51~11.9%) and uronic acid (1.79~7.47%), and included different levels of mannose (62.3~76.3%), glucose (15.2~20.3%), galactose (4.35~15.3%), and arabinose (4.00~7.65%). The crude contained two peaks with molecular weights (Mw) of 151×10³ and 31.8×10³, but F₁ and F₂ exhibited one major peak with Mw of 103×10³ and 628×10³, respectively. Little immunostimulatory activity was observed by the crude; however, F₁ and F₂ significantly activated RAW264.7 cells to release nitric oxide and various cytokines, suggesting they were potent immunostimulators. The backbone of the most immunostimulating fraction (F₁) was (1→4)-manno- and (1→4)-gluco-pyranosyl residues with galactose and glucose attached to O-6 of manno-pyranoside.

Effect of Beverage Containing Fermented Akebia quinata Extracts on Alcoholic Hangover

The present study was conducted to investigate the effects of beverages containing fermented Akebia quinata extracts on alcoholic hangover. For this study, 25 healthy young men were recruited. All participants consumed 100 mL of water (placebo), commercial hangover beverage A or B, fermented A. quinata leaf (AQL) or fruit (AQF) extract before alcohol consumption. After 1 h, all participants consumed a bottle of Soju, Korean distilled liquor (360 mL), containing 20% alcohol. Blood was collected at 0 h, 1 h, 3 h, and 5 h after alcohol consumption. The plasma alanine transaminase (ALT) activity was highest in the placebo group. Compared with the control group, the AQL and AQF groups showed decreased ALT activity at 5 h after alcohol consumption. Plasma ethanol concentration was increased after alcohol intake and peaked at 3 h after alcohol consumption. Compared with the control group, the A group showed a higher plasma ethanol concentration at 1 h (P<0.05). At 3 h after alcohol consumption, the AQF group showed the lowest mean plasma ethanol concentration compared to the other groups; however, there were no statistical differences. After 5 h of alcohol consumption, the AQL and AQF groups showed lower plasma ethanol concentrations compared with the B group. The sensory evaluation score for the fermented A. quinata fruit extract was lower than for the commercial hangover beverages. In conclusion, the present intervention study results suggest that fermented A. quinata extracts alleviate alcoholic hangover and reduce plasma ethanol concentrations.

Akebia quinata extract exerts anti-obesity and hypolipidemic effects in high-fat diet-fed mice and 3T3-L1 adipocytes

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

The dry ripe fruit of the Akebia quinata (A. quinata) plant is used as an analgesic, an antiphlogistic, and a diuretic in traditional medicine. A. quinata has also been used in Korea as a crude drug for treating obesity. The aim of the study was to determine the anti-obesity and hypolipidemic effects of A. quinata extract (AQE) in mice consuming a high-fat diet and in 3T3-L1 adipocytes.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We measured obesity-related physiological parameters, gene expression, and protein phosphorylation in mice consuming a high-fat diet supplemented with AQE (400mg/kg/day) for 6.5 weeks.

RESULTS

AQE reduced gain in body weight, adipose tissue weight, and serum lipid levels in mice consuming a high-fat diet. AQE supplementation reduced expression of genes related to adipogenesis and increased expression of PPARα, acetyl-CoA oxidase, and adiponectin in the epididymal adipose tissue. Furthermore, AQE increased phosphorylation of adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase (AMPK) and acetyl-CoA carboxylase, both of which are related to fatty acid oxidation, in vivo. HPLC analysis revealed that AQE contained chlorogenic acid, isochlorogenic acid A, and isochlorogenic acid C. AQE and all of these constituents inhibited differentiation of 3T3-L1 cells and enhanced AMPK phosphorylation.

CONCLUSIONS

These results suggest the AQE exerted anti-obesity and hypolipidemic effects in mice consuming a high-fat diet by regulating adipogenesis and fatty acid oxidation via AMPK activation.

HPLC-ESI-MS/MS validation and pharmacokinetics of kalopanaxsaponin A in rats

A new LC-MS/MS method was developed and validated for the analysis of kalopanaxsaponin A in rat plasma.

A comparative study on inhibition of total astragalus saponins and astragaloside IV on TNFR1-mediated signaling pathways in arterial endothelial cells

Background

Both total astragalus saponins (AST) and it’s main component astragaloside IV (ASIV) have been used in China as cardiovascular protective medicines. However, the anti-inflammatory activities that are beneficial for cardiovascular health have never been compared directly and the molecular mechanisms remain unresolved. This study was conducted to compare the inhibitory effects of these drugs on TNFα-induced cell responses, related signaling pathways, and the underlying mechanisms in mouse arterial endothelial cells.

Methodology/Principal Findings

Real-time qRT-PCR was performed to determine the expression of cell adhesion molecule (CAM) genes. Immunofluorescent staining was used to detect the nuclear translocation of transcription factor NF-κB-p65. Western Blot analysis was used to identify TNFα-induced NF-κB-p65 phosphorylation, IκBα degradation, and caspase-3 cleavage. Cell surface proteins were isolated and TNFα receptor-1(TNFR1) expression was determined. The results suggest that both AST and ASIV attenuate TNFα-induced up-regulation of CAMs mRNA and upstream nuclear translocation and phosphorylation of NF-κB-p65. However, TNFR1-mediated IκBα degradation, cleavage of caspase-3 and apoptosis were inhibited only by AST. These differences in the actions of AST and ASIV could be explained by the presence of other components in AST, such as ASII and ASIII, which also had an inhibitory effect on TNFR1-induced IκBα degradation. Moreover, AST, but not ASIV, was able to reduce TNFR1 protein level on the cell surface. Furthermore, mechanistic investigation demonstrated that TNFR1-mediated IκBα degradation was reversed by the use of TAPI-0, an inhibitor of TNFα converting enzyme (TACE), suggesting the involvement of TACE in the modulation of surface TNFR1 level by AST.

Conclusion

ASIV was not a better inhibitor than AST, at least on the inhibition of TNFα-induced inflammatory responses and TNFR1-mediated signaling pathways in AECs. The inhibitory effect of AST was caused by the reduction of cell surface TNFR1 level, and TACE could be involved in this action.

Antinociceptive activity of the HPLC- and MS-standardized hydroethanolic extract of Pterodon emarginatus Vogel leaves

Several studies have demonstrated the analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects of fruit and seed extracts from Pterodon emarginatus Vogel (Fabaceae). The objective of this study was to evaluate the antinociceptive activity of the hydroethanolic extract of P. emarginatus leaves in mice and characterize its chemical composition using HPLC coupled to UV-vis diode array detection and mass spectrometry with electrospray ionization. Our results showed that the doses of 500 and 1000 mg/kg produced an antinociceptive effect, as observed in the hot plate test and writhing induced by acetic acid. The chromatographic profile and spectral mass data suggest the presence of di-C-glycosylflavones (e.g., vicenin-2 and schaftoside), C,O-glycosylflavones (e.g., chrysoeriol-8-C-glucosyl-2″-O-glucuronide-6-C-arabinoside) and luteolin-7-O-rutinoside as the main constituents. Lower levels of oleanane-type saponins, such as soyasaponin Bb and Be, and the saponin derivatives hederagenin and aglycone B, which are typical of Fabaceae family, were also found. From this study, it is suggested that the analgesic effect observed is not due to the terpenoids previously reported from fruit and seed extracts, but could be attributed to flavones and the hederagenin derivatives that were identified as main constituents of the hydroethanolic extract from the leaves.