Mulberry Extract Supplements Ameliorate the Inflammation-Related Hematological Parameters in Carrageenan-Induced Arthritic Rats

Mulberry extract ameliorates T2DM-related symptoms via AMPK pathway in STZ-HFD-induced C57BL/6J mice

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Mulberry (Morus alba L.) is not only a tasty food but also a beneficial medicinal substance that has been historically used to treat diabetes, as recorded in Tang Ben Cao. Recent research on animal models has shown that the ethyl acetate extract of Morus alba L. fruits (EMF) has hypoglycemic and hypolipidemic properties. However, there is a lack of documentation on the specific mechanisms through which EMF exerts its hypoglycemic effects.

OBJECTIVE OF THE STUDY

This study aimed to investigate the impact of EMF on L6 cells and C57/BL6J mice and to elucidate the potential mechanisms underlying its effects. The findings of this study can contribute to the existing evidence for the application of EMF as a therapeutic drug or dietary supplement in the management of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The UPLC-Q-TOF-MS technique was utilized to gather MS data. Masslynx 4.1 software in conjunction with the SciFinder database and other relevant references were used to analyze and identify the chemical composition of EMF. A series of in vitro investigations including MTT assay, glucose uptake assay and Western blot analysis were performed using an L6 cell model stably expressing IRAP-mOrange after EMF treatment. In vivo investigations were performed on a STZ-HFD co-induced T2DM mouse model, which included assessments of body composition, biochemical tests, histopathological analysis, and Western blot analysis.

RESULTS

MTT results revealed that EMF had no toxic effects on the cells at various concentrations. When EMF was administered to L6 cells, there was an increase in glucose transporter type 4 (GLUT4) translocation activity and a significant dose-dependent enhancement of glucose uptake by L6 myotubes. EMF treatment led to a marked increase in P-AMPK levels and GLUT4 expression in the cells, but these effects were reversed by an AMPK inhibitor (Compound C). In diabetic mice with STZ-HFD-induced diabetes, EMF treatment improved oral glucose tolerance, hyperglycemia, and hyperinsulinemia. Furthermore, EMF supplementation significantly reduced insulin resistance (IR) in diabetic mice, as evaluated using a steady-state model of the insulin resistance index. Histopathological sections demonstrated that acute EMF treatment reduced hepatic steatosis, pancreatic damage, and adipocyte hypertrophy. Western blot analysis demonstrated that EMF treatment also reduced abnormally high PPARγ expression, elevated the level of p-AMPK and p-ACC, and augmented the abundance of GLUT4 in insulin-sensitive peripheral tissues.

SUMMARY

The results suggest that EMF may exert beneficial effects on T2DM through the AMPK/GLUT4 and AMPK/ACC pathways, as well as by regulating PPARγ expression.

The Effective Analysis for Blue Honeysuckle Extract in the Treatment of Hepatocellular Carcinoma

To further determine how BHE affected the growth of HCC cells, the proportion of each cell cycle phase was explored in HCC cells by flow cytometry. Blue honeysuckle (Lonicera caerulea L.) is a species of bush that grows in eastern Russia. Blue honeysuckle extract (BHE) is rich in bioactive phytochemicals which can inhibit the proliferation of tumor cells. The mechanism underlying the anticancer activity of BHE in primary liver cancer is poorly understood. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the growth inhibition mechanism of bioactive substances from blue honeysuckle on hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) cells and to explore its protein and gene targets. The compounds in BHE were determined by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) and liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS). Cell counting kit-8 (CCK8) assay was used to evaluate the effects of BHE on HCC cell proliferation, and flow cytometry assay (FCA) was used to determine how BHE arrested the proportion of each cell cycle phase in HCC cells. Western blot (WB) was performed to determine the expression of cell cycle-related proteins in HCC cells treated with different concentrations of BHE. The xenograft tumor animal models were established by HCC cell implantation. The results showed that cyanidin-3-o-glucoside and cyanidin-3-o-sophoroside which are the main biologically active components were detected in BHE. BHE is highly effective in inhibiting the proliferation of HCC cells by arresting the HCC cell cycle in the G2/M phase. BHE also downregulated the expression of conventional or classical dendritic cells-2 (cDC2) and cyclin B1 by promoting the expression of myelin transcription factor 1 (MyT1) in HCC cells. The weight and volume of xenografts were significantly decreased in the BHE treated groups when compared to the control group. BHE increased the expression of MyT1 in xenograft tissues. These findings showed that blue honeysuckle extract inhibits proliferation in vivo and in vitro by downregulating the expression of cDC2 and cyclin B1 and upregulating the expression of MyT1 in HCC cells.

Influence of black rice (Oryza sativa L.) bran derived anthocyanin-extract on growth rate, immunological response, and immune-antioxidant gene expression in Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) cultivated in a biofloc system

This study investigated the effects of dietary supplementation with anthocyanin extracted from black rice bran (AR) on the growth rate, immunological response, and expression of immune and antioxidant genes in Nile tilapia raised in an indoor biofloc system. A total of 300 Nile tilapia fingerlings (15.14 ± 0.032 g) were maintained in 150 L tanks and acclimatized for two weeks. Five experimental AR diets (0, 1, 2, 4, and 8 g kg^-1) with various anthocyanin doses were used to feed the fish. We observed that the growth and feed utilization of fish fed with different dietary AR levels increased significantly after eight weeks (p < 0.05). In addition, the serum immunity of fish fed AR diets was much greater than that of those fed non-AR diets (p < 0.05). However, there were little or no difference in between fish fed AR enriched diets and the control AR-free diet (p > 0.05). After eight weeks, fish fed AR-supplemented diets had significantly higher mRNA transcript levels in immune (interleukin [IL]-1, IL-8, and liposaccharide-binding protein [LBP]) and antioxidant (glutathione transferase-alpha [GST-α] and glutathione reductase [GSR]) genes compared to control fish fed the AR-free diet, with the greatest enhancement of mRNA transcript levels (in the case of IL-8 by up to about 5.8-fold) in the 4 g kg^-1 AR diet. These findings suggest that dietary inclusion of AR extract from black rice bran at 4-8 g kg^-1 could function as a herbal immunostimulant to enhance growth performance, feed consumption, and immunity in Nile tilapia.

Potential Effects of Anthocyanin-Rich Roselle (Hibiscus sabdariffa L.) Extract on the Growth, Intestinal Histomorphology, Blood Biochemical Parameters, and the Immune Status of Broiler Chickens

The potential effects of anthocyanin-rich roselle, Hibiscus sabdariffa L. extract (ARRE) on the growth, carcass traits, intestinal histomorphology, breast muscle composition, blood biochemical parameters, antioxidant activity, and immune status of broiler chickens were evaluated. In the present study, Hibiscus acidified ethanolic extract was reported to have a total anthocyanin content of about 359.3 mg cyanidin 3-glucoside/100 g DW, total polyphenol concentration (TPC) of about 598 mg gallic acid equivalent (GAE)/100 g DW, and total flavonoids (TFs) of about 100 mg quercetin equivalent (QE)/100 g DW. Two-hundred-fifty one-day-old chicks (Ross 308 broiler) (87.85 gm ± 0.32) were randomly allotted to five experimental groups and fed on basal diets supplemented with five levels of ARRE: 0, 50, 100, 200, and 400 mg Kg−1 for 35 days. Dietary ARRE addition did not improve the birds’ growth and carcass traits. Supplemental ARRE increased the n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) (ω-3) percentage in the breast muscle. Dietary ARRE increased the villous height, and the ARRE100 group raised the villus height to crypt depth ratio. Dietary ARRE increased the immunoexpression of immunoglobulin G (IgG) in the spleen. The serum thyroxine hormone (T4) level was higher in the ARRE200 group. The serum growth hormone level was increased by ARRE addition in a level-dependent manner. According to the broken-line regression analysis, the optimum inclusion level of ARRE was 280 mg Kg−1. All levels of supplemental ARRE decreased the serum triglyceride level. The serum total antioxidant capacity (TAC) was increased in the ARRE100-ARRE400 groups, the serum superoxide dismutase (SOD) level was increased in the ARRE200 group, and the serum malondialdehyde (MDA) level was decreased by increasing the ARRE level. Supplemental ARRE significantly increased the serum levels of lysozymes and IL10. The serum complement 3 (C3) level was increased in ARRE200 and ARRE400 groups. It can be concluded that dietary ARRE addition had many beneficial effects represented by the improvements in the bird’s metabolic functions, blood biochemistry, intestinal morphology, antioxidant activity, immune status, and higher ω-3 content in the breast muscles. However, it had no improving effect on the birds’ growth.

Addition of Lactic Acid Bacteria Can Promote the Quality and Feeding Value of Broussonetia papyrifera (Paper Mulberry) Silage

In this study, the influence of two lactic acid bacteria (LAB) strains [Lactobacillus rhamnosus BDy (LR-BDy) and Lactobacillus buchneri TSy (LB-TSy)] selected from Southwest China on the fermentation characteristics and in vitro gas production of Broussonetia papyrifera (paper mulberry) silage were experimentally explored. The experimental groups were a control group (C), an LB-TSy treatment (LB), an LR-BDy treatment (LR), and an LR-BDy + LB-TSy hybrid group (LR × LB). After the LAB were added, the pH value of paper mulberry silage significantly declined (p < 0.05), and the crude protein content was effectively preserved (p < 0.05). However, no significant changes were found in the levels of neutral detergent fiber, acid detergent fiber, and crude ash (p > 0.05). The lactic acid content in paper mulberry silage was evidently increased (p < 0.05). The in vitro gas production in the LR at 36, 48, and 72 h were markedly higher than that in the other treatments (p < 0.05). Owing to the addition of LAB, the microbial diversity in paper mulberry silage was reduced, while the relative bacterial abundance of Lactobacillus was enhanced. Hence, the addition of LAB selected from the warm and humid region in Southwest China can improve the quality of paper mulberry silage and elevate its feeding value in this region.

Mulberry (Morus alba L.) Fruit Extract Ameliorates Inflammation via Regulating MicroRNA-21/132/143 Expression and Increases the Skeletal Muscle Mitochondrial Content and AMPK/SIRT Activities

The Mulberry (Morus alba L.) fruit is a rich source of polyphenolic compounds; most of these are anthocyanins. Obesity is intimately related to low-grade inflammation, with increased pro-inflammatory cytokine secretion and macrophage infiltration in white adipose tissue (WAT). This study investigated whether mulberry fruit extract (ME) has beneficial effects on obesity-induced inflammation and skeletal muscle mitochondrial dysfunction. Sprague-Dawley rats were divided into four groups and fed either a low-fat diet (LFD), high-fat diet (HFD), HFD + 5 g/kg of ME (ME-L), or HFD + 10 g/kg of ME (ME-H) for 14 weeks. ME alleviated dyslipidemia and lipid accumulation, as well as pro-inflammatory cytokine production such as tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interleukin 6 (IL-6), and monocyte chemoattractant protein 1 (MCP1) in the WAT. ME mitigated nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells (NF-κB) phosphorylation and macrophage infiltration in WAT. Notably, microRNA (miR)-21, miR-132, and miR-43 expressions were downregulated in the WAT of the ME groups compared to the HFD group. Moreover, ME increased the mitochondrial size and mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) content, as well as key genes’ expression related to mitochondrial function, including sirtuin (SIRT)1, peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ coactivator-1α (PGC-1α), carnitine palmitoyltransferase 1β (CPT-1β), and uncoupling protein 3 (UCP3), and adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase (AMPK)/SIRT activities in skeletal muscle. These results suggested that ME might alleviate obesity-induced inflammation and mitochondrial dysfunction by regulating miR-21, miR-132, and miR-43 expression in WAT, and by activating the PGC-1α/SIRT1 pathway in muscle.

β-Sitosterol-loaded solid lipid nanoparticles ameliorate complete Freund's adjuvant-induced arthritis in rats: involvement of NF-кB and HO-1/Nrf-2 pathway

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA), autoimmune disease that is categorized via chronic inflammation manifestation, obesity, cardiovascular risk and even enhanced the mortality and affect the 0.3 and 1% of population worldwide. The current experimental study was scrutinize the anti-arthritic effect of β-sitosterol loaded solid lipid nanoparticles (SLN) against complete Fruend adjuvant (CFA)-induced arthritis via dual pathway. Double emulsion solvent displacement method was used for the preparation of β-sitosterol solid lipid nanoparticles (SLN). CFA was used to induce arthritis and rats were divided into different groups for 28 days. Biochemical, anti-inflammatory, pro-inflammatory cytokines and inflammatory mediator were estimated, respectively. Receptor activator of nuclear factor kappa-B ligand (RANKL), signal transducer and activator of transcription-3 (STAT3) nuclear factor erythroid 2–related factor 2 (Nrf₂), Heme Oxygenase-1(HO-1) and Nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) expression were estimated. β-sitosterol-SLN significantly (p < .001) reduced the paw edema, arthritic index and increased the body weight. β-sitosterol-SLN increased the redox status of synovium {reduce the malonaldehyde (MDA) and increase superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione (GSH) and catalase (CAT)} level and reduced the cytokines such as tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interleukin-1β (IL-1β), interleukin-2, interleukin-6, interleukin-16, interleukin-17 and increased level of interleukin-10, Transforming growth factor beta (TGF-β). β-sitosterol-SLN significantly (p < .001) reduced the level of cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2), prostaglandin E₂ (PGE₂), vascular Endothelial Growth Factor (VEGF) and NF-κB. β-sitosterol-SLN significantly increased the expression of HO-1,Nrf₂ and decreased the expression of NF-κB, RANKL, STAT3. In conclusion, β-sitosterol SLN showed the antiarthritic effect via suppression of NF-kB and activation of HO-1/Nrf-2 pathway.

Effects of Different Parts on the Chemical Composition, Silage Fermentation Profile, In Vitro and In Situ Digestibility of Paper Mulberry

Simple Summary

Paper mulberry (Broussonetia papyrifera, PM) is a potential roughage source widely distributed in Asia, but the chemical composition, silage fermentation, and digestibility are not fully understood. Here, we compared the chemical composition, silage fermentation, and digestibility of leaf, stem, and whole plant of PM to evaluate its feeding value. The result showed that the leaf had lower fiber content and higher protein content than the stem and whole plant. Meanwhile, the stem silage had the lowest pH value and lactate content, while those in the leaf were the highest. The in vitro and in situ digestibility showed the leaf was more digestible. Our study gives the reference of different parts of PM to be used as a feedstuff.

Abstract

Paper mulberry (Broussonetia papyrifera, PM) is high protein but unutilized as a feed source. The study explores the different parts (leaf, stem, and whole plant) of PM chemical composition, silage fermentation, and in vitro and in situ digestibility, aiming to give some guidelines to PM usage as feed. The result showed that the leaf had a higher fresh weight than the stem (p < 0.05). The dry matter contents of the three groups had no differences. The highest crude protein, ether extract, water-soluble carbohydrate, ash, calcium, phosphorus, amino acid contents, and butter capacity were observed in the leaf (p < 0.05). The stem had the highest (p < 0.05) neutral detergent fiber, acid detergent fiber, and lignin contents. After ensiling, the stem silage had the lowest pH value, ammonia nitrate (NH₃-N), lactate, acetate, and propionate (p < 0.05). The leaf silage had the highest pH value (p < 0.05). The lactate, acetate, and propionate in the leaf and whole plant silage had no difference. The butyrate was not detected in all silage. The in vitro and in situ digestibility experiments showed the leaf had the highest digestibility (p < 0.05), which could produce more volatile fatty acids and have a higher effective digestibility. These results allow a greater understanding of PM to be used as a feedstuff.

Effects of Mulberry on The Central Nervous System: A Literature Review

Background

Mulberry, including several species belonging to genus Morus, has been widely used as a traditional medicine for a long time. Extracts and active components of mulberry have many positive neurological and biological effects and can become potential candidates in the search for new drugs for neurological disorders.

Objectives

We aimed to systematically review the medical literature for evidence of mulberry effects on the central nervous system.

Methods

We conducted a systematic search in nine databases. We included all in vivo studies investigating the effect of mulberry on the central nervous system with no restrictions.

Results

We finally included 47 articles for quality synthesis. Our findings showed that mulberry and its components possessed an antioxidant effect, showed a reduction in the cerebral infarct volume after stroke. They also improved the cognitive function, learning process, and reduced memory impairment in many animal models. M. alba and its extracts ameliorated Parkinson's disease-like behaviors, limited the complications of diabetes mellitus on the central nervous system, possessed anti-convulsant, anti-depressive, and anxiolytic effects.

Conclusion

Mulberry species proved beneficial to many neurological functions in animal models. The active ingredients of each species, especially M. alba, should be deeper studied for screening potential candidates for future treatments.

Effects of Paper Mulberry Silage on the Milk Production, Apparent Digestibility, Antioxidant Capacity, and Fecal Bacteria Composition in Holstein Dairy Cows

Simple Summary

Paper mulberry (Broussonetia papyrifera; PM) is a type of roughage rich in bioactive substances, such as phenolics and flavonoids, which are beneficial for animal health. This study evaluated the apparent digestibility of PM silage in Holstein dairy cows and its effect on the milk production, antioxidant capacity, and fecal bacteria composition of the animals. The results showed that the PM silage had no significant influence on the milk yield, apparent digestibility, and fecal bacteria composition of dairy cows. However, diets with PM silage can enhance the antioxidant and immune capacity of dairy cows, mainly due to the bioactive substance in PM. Today, faced with a shortage of feedstuff resources in ruminants, PM can be a useful feed resource for ruminants. Simultaneously, with the ban on antibiotics, PM may become an important functional feed for protecting animal health.

Abstract

Paper mulberry (Broussonetia papyrifera; PM) is an excellent and extensive type of roughage in Asia. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of PM silage on the milk production, apparent digestibility, antioxidant capacity, and fecal bacteria composition in Holstein dairy cows. Forty-five lactating Holstein dairy cows with a similar milk yield and parity were selected and randomly assigned to three groups. The control group was fed a non-PM silage diet, and the PM-treated groups were fed 4.5 and 9.0% PM silage supplementary diets for 28 days. Then, treatment groups were fed diets containing 13.5 and 18.0% PM silage for the next 28 days, respectively. PM silage increased the milk urea nitrogen and decreased the somatic cell count (p < 0.05), but did not affect the dry matter intake, milk yield, apparent digestibility, and energy balance of dairy cows. PM silage can enhance the blood total antioxidant capacity, superoxide dismutase, and immune globulin content (p < 0.05). The PM silage significantly decreased the relative abundance of the genera Ruminococcaceae UCG-013 and Tyzzerella-4 (p < 0.05). In conclusion, PM silage enhanced the antioxidant capacity and immunity of dairy cows, but did not influence the milk yield, dry matter digestibility, and fecal bacteria composition.

Effects of dietary anthocyanin on innate immune parameters, gene expression responses, and ammonia resistance of Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus)

The present study investigated the effects of dietary anthocyanin on the growth performance, haematological, non-specific immune, and spleen gene expression responses of Nile tilapia, Oreochromis niloticus. Five experimental groups of fish with mean weights of 8.24 ± 0.64 g were used in the study; four of these were fed with diets incorporating anthocyanin (20 mg kg -¹, 40 mg kg^-1, 80 mg kg^-1 and 160 mg kg^-1), while the fifth was a control group without dietary anthocyanin. Growth performance and haematological parameters of tilapia were not affected by anthocyanin-supplemented diets (p > 0.05). Dietary anthocyanin significantly increased respiratory burst activity, phagocytic activity, phagocytic index, lysozyme activity, myeloperoxidase activity, serum total superoxide dismutase (T.SOD) activity, and serum catalase (CAT) activity (p < 0.05). The total immunoglobulin level was highest in the 80 mg kg^-1 group compared with the other groups (p < 0.05). In addition, with the anthocyanin-containing diets, the gene levels of interleukin 1, beta (IL-1β), interleukin 8 (IL-8), tumor necrosis factor (TNF-α), heat shock protein 70 (HSP70), and interferon gamma (IFN-γ) were increased in the fish spleen, and the gene levels of CAT, GPx, and SOD were also increased in fish liver (p < 0.05). At the end of the experiment, the fish were subjected to ammonia stress. The groups fed with 20 and 40 mg kg^-1 anthocyanin exhibited higher survival rates than the other groups. In summary, feeding Nile tilapia with anthocyanin-containing diets caused increases in the innate immune parameters, gene expression responses, and the survival rate of the fish subjected to ammonia stress.

Mulberry juice freeze-dried powder attenuates the disease severity by the maintaining of colon mucosa in mice with DSS-induced acute colitis

This study aimed to evaluate the microbial compositions and gene expression related to inflammation in dextran sodium sulfate (DSS)-induced acute colitis and the effect of mulberry supplementation. Male BALB/c mice received a diet supplemented with mulberry juice freeze-dried powder (MFP) or not for 3 weeks. After 3 weeks, the mice received water containing 5% (w/v) DSS or not for 1 week. The disease activity index score in mice fed MFP was significantly decreased. A significant decrease in Bifidobacterium spp. and the Clostridium perfringens subgroup was observed in mice not fed MFP. The number of goblet cell and NLRP6 expression were observed in mice fed a diet supplemented with MFP compared with mice not fed MFP. These results may indicate that mulberry mitigates DSS-induced acute colitis by a changing the gut microbial flora and by improving mucosal conditions.

Protective effect of mulberry crude extract against nonylphenol-induced thyroid disruption by inhibiting the activity of deiodinase in rats

Nonylphenol (NP) is an endocrine-disrupting chemical (EDC) that can lead to thyroid disruption. We explored NP-induced toxicity in the rat thyroid and evaluated the mitigating effects of mulberry crude extract (MCE) on NP toxicity. First, we aimed to evaluate NP-induced thyroid disruption by dosing Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats with NP (0, 30, 90, or 270 mg/kg body weight) daily for 28 days. Second, we aimed to determine whether MCE had a detoxifying effect on NP-induced thyroid disruption by dosing SD rats with NP (270 mg/kg body weight) or/and MCE (30, 60, or 120 mg/kg body weight) daily for 28 days. We found that NP significantly inhibited free triiodothyronin (FT₃) and free thyroxine (FT₄) activity in rat serum (P < 0.05), but MCE intervention significantly increased FT₃ and FT₄ serum levels (P < 0.05). It is possible that changes in hormonal composition might trigger the TRH-TSH-TH automatic feedback loop. The activity of the three iodothyronine deiodinases increased significantly after NP-dosing (P < 0.05), but only deiodinase3 (D3) was downregulated after MCE treatment (P < 0.05). Therefore, MCE might be an effective NP-detoxification agent against thyroid disruption because it regulates D3 activity.

Therapeutic effects of Smilax glabra and Bolbostemma paniculatum on rheumatoid arthritis using a rat paw edema model

Smilax glabra Roxb. (Tufuling) and Bolbostemma paniculatum (Maxim.) Franquet (Tubeimu) are used as couplet medicine in traditional Chinese medicine for the treatment of arthritis. This study is conducted to provide evidence on their therapeutic effects on rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and to explore its possible mechanisms of action. The identification and quantification of representative components (Astilbin and Tubeimoside I) in the n-butyl alcohol fraction of this couplet medicine (BFCM) were carried out by HPLC-UV assays. The contents of Astilbin and Tubeimoside I in BFCM were 13.13% (15.434 min) and 3.4% (18.619 min) respectively. For the assessment of anti-RA and anti-inflammatory activities, a carrageenan-induced paw edema model in rats was used. The swelling rates of paws and levels of IL-1β, IL-6 and TNF-α in the swelling tissue were determined. We observed that the BFCM exhibited significant inhibitory activity on carrageenan-induced paw edema model (p<0.01). The down regulated levels of IL-1β, IL-6 and TNF-α (all p<0.05) were reported. The results indicate that BFCM possesses significant anti-RA and anti-inflammatory effects, and it has a potential to be developed as a new therapeutic agent against RA.

Effects of Mulberry Fruit (Morus alba L.) Consumption on Health Outcomes: A Mini-Review

Mulberry (Morus alba L.) belongs to the Moraceae family and is widely planted in Asia. Mulberry fruits are generally consumed as fresh fruits, jams and juices. They contain considerable amounts of biologically active ingredients that might be associated with some potential pharmacological activities that are beneficial for health. Therefore, they have been traditionally used in traditional medicine. Studies have reported that the presence of bioactive components in mulberry fruits, including alkaloids and flavonoid, are associated with bioactivities such as antioxidant. One of the most important compounds in mulberry fruits is anthocyanins which are water-soluble bioactive ingredients of the polyphenol class. Studies have shown that mulberry fruits possess several potential pharmacological health benefits including anti-cholesterol, anti-obesity and hepatoprotective effects which might be associated with the presence of some of these bioactive compounds. However, human intervention studies on the pharmacological activities of mulberry fruits are limited. Therefore, future studies should explore the effect of mulberry fruit consumption on human health and elucidate the detailed compounds. This paper provides an overview of the pharmacological activities of mulberry fruits.

Mulberry (Morus alba L.) Fruit Extract Containing Anthocyanins Improves Glycemic Control and Insulin Sensitivity via Activation of AMP-Activated Protein Kinase in Diabetic C57BL/Ksj-db/db Mice

The effect of mulberry (Morus alba L.) fruit extract (MFE) on hyperglycemia and insulin sensitivity in an animal model of type 2 diabetes was evaluated. C57BL/Ksj-diabetic db/db mice were divided into three groups: diabetic control, rosiglitazone, and MFE groups. Blood glucose, plasma insulin, and intraperitoneal glucose were measured, and an insulin tolerance test was performed after MFE supplementation in db/db mice. In addition, the protein levels of various targets of insulin signaling were measured by western blotting. The blood levels of glucose and HbA1c were significantly lower in the MFE-supplemented group than in the diabetic control group. Moreover, glucose and insulin tolerance tests showed that MFE treatment increased insulin sensitivity. The homeostatic index of insulin resistance significantly decreased in the MFE-supplemented group relative to the diabetic control group. MFE supplementation significantly stimulated the levels of phosphorylated (p)-AMP-activated protein kinase (pAMPK) and p-Akt substrate of 160 kDa (pAS160) and enhanced the level of plasma membrane-glucose transporter 4 (GLUT4) in skeletal muscles. Further, dietary MFE significantly increased pAMPK and decreased the levels of glucose 6-phosphatase and phosphoenolpyruvate carboxykinase in the liver. MFE may improve hyperglycemia and insulin sensitivity via activation of AMPK and AS160 in skeletal muscles and inhibition of gluconeogenesis in the liver.

Effect of black mulberry (Morus nigra) extract treatment on cognitive impairment and oxidative stress status of D-galactose-induced aging mice

CONTEXT

Morus nigra L. (Moraceae) has various uses in traditional medicine. However, the effect of M. nigra on cognitive impairment has not been investigated yet.

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this study is to determine the phenolic acid content and DNA damage protection potential of M. nigra leaf extract and to investigate the extract effect on cognitive impairment and oxidative stress in aging mice.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Phenolic acid content was determined by quantitative chromatographic analysis. DNA damage protection potential was evaluated on pBR322 plasmid DNA. Thirty-two Balb-C mice were randomly divided into four groups (control, d-galactose, d-galactose + M. nigra 50, and d-galactose + M. nigra 100). Mice were administered d-galactose (100 mg/kg, subcutaneous) and M. nigra (50 or 100 mg/kg, orally) daily for 8 weeks. Behavioral responses were evaluated with Morris water maze. Activities of antioxidant enzymes and levels of malondialdehyde (MDA) were assayed in serum, brain, and liver.

RESULTS

In extract, vanillic (632.093 μg/g) and chlorogenic acids (555.0 μg/g) were determined. The extract between 0.02 and 0.05 mg/mL effectively protected all DNA bands against the hazardous effect of UV and H2O2. Morus nigra significantly improved learning dysfunctions (p < 0.01), increased memory retention (p < 0.01), reduced MDA levels (p < 0.05), and elevated SOD, GPx, and CAT activities (p < 0.05) compared with the d-galactose group.

DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION

These results show that M. nigra has the potential in improving cognitive deficits in mice and that M. nigra may be useful to suppress aging, partially due to its scavenging activity of free radicals and high antioxidant capacity.

Anthocyanin-rich fractions from red raspberries attenuate inflammation in both RAW264.7 macrophages and a mouse model of colitis

Edible berries have a broad spectrum of biomedical functions, including improving immune responses and reducing risk for chronic diseases. In this study, the anti-inflammatory activities of crude extracts (CEs), anthocyanin-rich fractions (ARFs), and des-anthocyanin fractions (DAFs) from seven berries were evaluated based on their inhibitory effects on nitric oxide (NO) production in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)/IFN-γ-activated RAW264.7 macrophages. ARFs from red raspberries (RR-ARFs) exhibited the highest efficiency in suppressing NO synthesis. The anti-inflammatory properties were also demonstrated by reducing the expression levels of inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2), interleukin-1 beta (IL-1β) and IL-6 in RAW264.7 cells. The luciferase reporter assay demonstrated that the activities of NF-κB and AP-1 signaling pathways were significantly suppressed by RR-ARFs. Further studies showed that RR-ARFs decreased the phosphorylation of IKK, IκBα, p65 and JNK and the nuclear translocation of p65 in LPS/IFN-γ-stimulated RAW264.7 cells. In a mouse colitis model, dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-induced weight loss and histological damage were significantly ameliorated by RR-ARFs treatment. Taken together, our results indicate that RR-ARFs attenuate inflammation both in vitro and in vivo primarily by inhibiting the activation of NF-κB and MAPKs. The anti-inflammatory of RR-ARFs could be harnessed and applied in animal agriculture, drug and food industries.

Combined treatment of mulberry leaf and fruit extract ameliorates obesity-related inflammation and oxidative stress in high fat diet-induced obese mice

The aim of this study was to investigate whether a combined treatment of mulberry leaf extract (MLE) and mulberry fruit extract (MFE) was effective for improving obesity and obesity-related inflammation and oxidative stress in high fat (HF) diet-induced obese mice. After obesity was induced by HF diet for 9 weeks, the mice were divided into eight groups: (1) lean control, (2) HF diet-induced obese control, (3) 1:1 ratio of MLE and MFE at doses of 200 (L1:1), (4) 500 (M1:1), and (5) 1000 (H1:1) mg/kg per day, and (6) 2:1 ratio of MLE and MFE at doses of 200 (L2:1), (7) 500 (M2:1), and (8) 1000 (H2:1) mg/kg per day. All six combined treatments significantly lowered body weight gain, plasma triglycerides, and lipid peroxidation levels after the 12-week treatment period. Additionally, all combined treatments suppressed hepatic fat accumulation and reduced epididymal adipocyte size. These improvements were accompanied by decreases in protein levels of proinflammatory markers (tumor necrosis factor-alpha, C-reactive protein, interleukin-1, inducible nitric oxide synthase, and phospho-nuclear factor-kappa B inhibitor alpha) and oxidative stress markers (heme oxygenase-1 and manganese superoxide dismutase). M2:1 was the most effective ratio and dose for the improvements in obesity, inflammation, and oxidative stress. These results demonstrate that a combined MLE and MFE treatment ameliorated obesity and obesity-related metabolic stressors and suggest that it can be used as a means to prevent and/or treat obesity.

Potential risk of mulberry-drug interaction: modulation on P-glycoprotein and cytochrome P450 3A

Mulberry is a fruit containing polyphenol antioxidants. Cyclosporine (CSP), a potent immunosuppressant with a narrow therapeutic range, is widely used in transplant patients. This study investigated the effect of co-administration of mulberry on the bioavailability of CSP, a probe drug of P-glycoprotein (P-gp)/cytochrome P450 3A4 (CYP 3A4), in rats and relevant mechanisms. CSP (2.5 mg/kg) was orally administered with and without a single dose or the seventh dose of mulberry (2 g/kg) to rats. The results showed that a single dose of mulberry significantly decreased the area under the curve of concentration (AUC(0-540)) and the maximum blood concentration (Cmax) of CSP by 53.2 and 65.8%, respectively. Repeated dosing of mulberry significantly decreased the AUC(0-540) and Cmax of CSP by 23.7 and 39.7%, respectively. Mechanism studies indicated that mulberry significantly increased the activities of P-gp and CYP 3A. In conclusion, mulberry significantly reduced the bioavailability of CSP through activating the functions of P-gp and CYP 3A.

Mulberry ( sang shèn zǐ) and its bioactive compounds, the chemoprevention effects and molecular mechanisms in vitro and in vivo

Mulberry ( sāng shèn zǐ), a traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) in Taiwan, has many bioactive substances, including polyphenol and anthocyanins compounds. Over the past decade, many scientific and medical studies have examined mulberry fruit for its antioxidation and antiinflammation effects both in vitro and in vivo. This review thus focuses on the recent advances of mulberry extracts (MEs) and their applications in the prevention and treatment of human cancer, liver disease, obesity, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease. The ME modulates several apoptotic pathways and matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) to block cancer progression. Mulberry can increase detoxicated and antioxidant enzyme activities and regulate the lipid metabolism to treat hepatic disease resulting from alcohol consumption, high fat diet, lipopolysaccharides (LPS) and CCl4 exposure. Of the various compounds in ME, cyanidin 3-glucoside (C3G) is the most abundant, and the active compound studied in mulberry research. Herein, the antioxidant and antiinflammatory actions of C3G to improve diabetes and cardiovascular disease are also discussed. These studies provide strong evidence ME may possess the bioactivity to affect the pathogenesis of several chronic diseases.

Recent updates in redox regulation and free radical scavenging effects by herbal products in experimental models of Parkinson's disease

Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a complex multifactorial disease marked by extensive neuropathology in the brain with selective yet prominent and progressive loss of mid-brain dopaminergic neurons. The etiological factors involved in the development of PD are still elusive, but oxidative stress arising when reactive oxygen species (ROS) exceed amounts required for normal redox signaling is considered one of the major factors. ROS cause oxidative damage to proteins, lipids, and DNA and are one of the most prominent factors related to neurodegeneration. Pre-clinical and clinical studies clearly demonstrate the effectiveness of oxidative stress in the pathogenesis of PD. Therefore, regulation of redox signaling and inhibiting excess ROS would contribute greatly not only to extend longevity but also to ameliorate the progression of dopaminergic cell death seen in patients with PD. Several herbal products are beneficial for maintaining nerve cell function and for treating various neurodegenerative disorders by reducing oxidative stress. Here, we summarize the recent knowledge concerning promising herbs that have shown significant beneficial effects based on regulation of redox status and ROS inhibition in toxin-induced PD models.

Mulberry Fruit Extract Protects against Memory Impairment and Hippocampal Damage in Animal Model of Vascular Dementia

Nowadays, the preventive strategy of vascular dementia, one of the challenge problems of elderly, has received attention due to the limitation of therapeutic efficacy. In this study, we aimed to determine the protective effect and possible mechanism of action of mulberry fruit extract on memory impairment and brain damage in animal model of vascular dementia. Male Wistar rats, weighing 300-350 g, were orally given mulberry extract at doses of 2, 10 and 50 mg/kg at a period of 7 days before and 21 days after the occlusion of right middle cerebral artery (Rt.MCAO). It was found that rats subjected to mulberry fruits plus Rt.MCAO showed the enhanced memory, the increased densities of neuron, cholinergic neuron, Bcl-2-immunopositive neuron together with the decreased oxidative stress in hippocampus. Taken all data together, the cognitive enhancing effect of mulberry fruit extract observed in this study might be partly associated with the increased cholinergic function and its neuroprotective effect in turn occurs partly via the decreased oxidative stress and apoptosis. Therefore, mulberry fruit is the potential natural cognitive enhancer and neuroprotectant. However, further researches are essential to elucidate the possible active ingredient.

Cyanidin-3-glucoside ameliorates ethanol neurotoxicity in the developing brain

Ethanol exposure induces neurodegeneration in the developing central nervous system (CNS). Fetal alcohol spectrum disorders (FASD) are caused by ethanol exposure during pregnancy and are the most common nonhereditary cause of mental retardation. It is important to identify agents that provide neuroprotection against ethanol neurotoxicity. Multiple mechanisms have been proposed for ethanol-induced neurodegeneration, and oxidative stress is one of the most important mechanisms. Recent evidence indicates that glycogen synthase kinase 3β (GSK3β) is a potential mediator of ethanol-mediated neuronal death. Cyanidin-3-glucoside (C3G), a member of the anthocyanin family, is a potent natural antioxidant. Our previous study suggested that C3G inhibited GSK3β activity in neurons. Using a third trimester equivalent mouse model of ethanol exposure, we tested the hypothesis that C3G can ameliorate ethanol-induced neuronal death in the developing brain. Intraperitoneal injection of C3G reduced ethanol-meditated caspase-3 activation, neurodegeneration, and microglial activation in the cerebral cortex of 7-day-old mice. C3G blocked ethanol-mediated GSK3β activation by inducing phosphorylation at serine 9 while reducing the phosphorylation at tyrosine 216. C3G also inhibited ethanol-stimulated expression of malondialdehyde (MDA) and p47phox, indicating that C3G alleviated ethanol-induced oxidative stress. These results provide important insight into the therapeutic potential of C3G.

Mulberry fruit protects dopaminergic neurons in toxin-induced Parkinson's disease models

Parkinson's disease (PD), one of the most common neurodegenerative disorders, is characterised by the loss of dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra pars compacta (SNpc) to the striatum (ST), and involves oxidative stress. Mulberry fruit from Morus alba L. (Moraceae) is commonly eaten, and has long been used in traditional oriental medicine. It contains well-known antioxidant agents such as anthocyanins. The present study examined the protective effects of 70 % ethanol extract of mulberry fruit (ME) against neurotoxicity in in vitro and in vivo PD models. In SH-SY5Y cells stressed with 6-hydroxydopamine (6-OHDA), ME significantly protected the cells from neurotoxicity in a dose-dependent manner. Other assays demonstrated that the protective effect of ME was mediated by its antioxidant and anti-apoptotic effects, regulating reactive oxygen species and NO generation, Bcl-2 and Bax proteins, mitochondrial membrane depolarisation and caspase-3 activation. In mesencephalic primary cells stressed with 6-OHDA or 1-methyl-4-phenylpyridinium (MPP+), pre-treatment with ME also protected dopamine neurons, showing a wide range of effective concentrations in MPP+-induced toxicity. In the sub-acute mouse PD model induced by 1-methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine (MPTP), ME showed a preventative effect against PD-like symptoms (bradykinesia) in the behavioural test and prevented MPTP-induced dopaminergic neuronal damage in an immunocytochemical analysis of the SNpc and ST. These results indicate that ME has neuroprotective effects in in vitro and in vivo PD models, and that it may be useful in preventing or treating PD.

Anthocyanins: are they beneficial in treating ethanol neurotoxicity?

Heavy alcohol exposure produces profound damage to the developing central nervous system (CNS) as well as the adult brain. Children with fetal alcohol spectrum disorders (FASD) have a variety of cognitive, behavioral, and neurological impairments. FASD currently represents the leading cause of mental retardation. Excessive alcohol consumption is associated with Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome (WKS) and neurodegeneration in the adult brain. Although the cellular/molecular mechanism underlying ethanol's neurotoxicity has not been fully understood, it is generally believed that oxidative stress plays an important role. Identification of neuroprotective agents that can ameliorate ethanol neurotoxicity is an important step for developing preventive/therapeutic strategies. Targeting ethanol-induced oxidative stress using natural antioxidants is an attractive approach. Anthocyanins, a large subgroup of flavonoids present in many vegetables and fruits, are safe and potent antioxidants. They exhibit diverse potential health benefits including cardioprotection, anti-atherosclerotic activity, anti-cancer, anti-diabetic, and anti-inflammation properties. Anthocyanins can cross the blood-brain barrier and distribute in the CNS. Recent studies indicate that anthocyanins represent novel neuroprotective agents and may be beneficial in ameliorating ethanol neurotoxicity. In this review, we discuss the evidence and potential of anthocyanins in alleviating ethanol-induced damage to the CNS. Furthermore, we discuss possible underlying mechanisms as well as future research approaches necessary to establish the therapeutic role of anthocyanins.

Anti-inflammatory activity of ethanol extract from Geranium sibiricum Linne

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Geranium sibiricum (Geraniaceae) Linne (GSL) is used to heal various disorders of the diarrhea and the intestinal inflammation as an herbal agent in East Asia.

AIMS OF THE STUDY

The purpose of the present study is to determine whether the ethanol (EtOH) extract of GSL regulates the inflammatory reaction stimulated by phorbol-12-myristate 13-acetate plus calcium ionophore A23187 (PMACI) in human mast cells (HMC-1).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Western blot was used for activation of mitogen activated protein kinase (MAPK), transcription factors, induced nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), and cyclooxygenase (COX)-2 proteins. EMSA was for DNA binding activity. RT-PCR was used for gene expression.

RESULTS

EtOH extract of GSL (EGS) inhibits the expression of extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK), one of a MAPK, nuclear transcription factors involving nuclear factor (NF)-kappaB and Activator protein (AP)-1, COX-2 and iNOS. The results indicated that EGS decreased gene expression of interleukin (IL)-1beta and COX-2 in PMACI stimulated HMC-1 cells.

CONCLUSION

Hence, we speculate that EGS can use as a potent anti-inflammatory agent for inflammatory allergic diseases.