Anti-inflammatory activity of sulfur-containing compounds from garlic

Effects of phytogenic feed additives in growing and finishing pigs under different stocking density

This study was to investigate effects of different phytogenic feed additives (PFA) in grower finishing pigs with stressed by high stocking density. A total of 84 growing pigs ([Landrace × Yorkshire] × Duroc) with initial body weight (BW) of 28.23 ± 0.21 kg were used for 10 weeks (4 replicate pens with 3 pigs per pen). The dietary treatment consisted of basal diets in animal welfare density (positive control [PC]), basal diet in high stocking density (negative control [NC]), NC + 0.04% bitter citrus extract (PT1), NC + 0.01% microencapsulated blend of thymol & carvacrol (PT2), NC + 0.10% mixture of 40% bitter citrus extract and 10% microencapsulated blend of thymol and carvacrol (PT3), NC + 0.04% premixture of grape seed and grape marc extract, green tea and hops (PT4), and NC + 0.10% fenugreek seed powder (PT5). The reduction of space allowance significantly decreased (p < 0.05) growth performance (average daily gain, average daily feed intake, feed efficiency) and nutrient digestibility (dry matter, crude protein). Also, the fecal score of NC group increased (p < 0.05) compared with other groups. In blood profiles, lymphocyte decreased (p < 0.05), and neutrophil, cortisol, TNF-α increased (p < 0.05) when pigs were in high stocking density. Basic behaviors (feed intake, standing, lying) were inactive (p < 0.05) and singularity behavior (biting) were increased (p < 0.05) under high stocking density. However, PFA groups alleviated the negative effects such as reducing growth performance, nutrient digestibility, increasing stress indicators in blood and animal behavior. In conclusion, PFA groups improved the health of pigs with stressed by high stocking density and PT3 is the most effective.

Barbiturate-sulfonate hybrids as potent cholinesterase inhibitors: design, synthesis and molecular modeling studies

Aim: Design and synthesis of a series of 5-benzylidene(thio)barbiturates 3a-r.Methodology: Evaluation of the inhibitory activity of the new chemical entities on acetylcholinesterase (AChE) and butyrylcholinesterase (BChE) using Donepezil as the standard reference.Results & Conclusion: Compound 3r emerged as the most potent AChE inhibitor (IC50 = 9.12 μM), while compound 3q exhibited the highest inhibitory activity against BChE (IC50 = 19.43 μM). Toxicological bioassays confirmed the absence of cytotoxicity for the most potent compounds at the tested doses. Molecular docking analysis demonstrated that the tested derivatives effectively bind to the active sites of both enzymes. Overall, this study sheds light on the potential of barbiturate-sulfonate conjugates as promising drug candidates.

Pharmacology of Hydrogen Sulfide and Its Donors in Cardiometabolic Diseases

Cardiometabolic diseases (CMDs) are major contributors to global mortality, emphasizing the critical need for novel therapeutic interventions. Hydrogen sulfide (H2S) has garnered enormous attention as a significant gasotransmitter with various physiological, pathophysiological, and pharmacological impacts within mammalian cardiometabolic systems. In addition to its roles in attenuating oxidative stress and inflammatory response, burgeoning research emphasizes the significance of H2S in regulating proteins via persulfidation, a well known modification intricately associated with the pathogenesis of CMDs. This review seeks to investigate recent updates on the physiological actions of endogenous H2S and the pharmacological roles of various H2S donors in addressing diverse aspects of CMDs across cellular, animal, and clinical studies. Of note, advanced methodologies, including multiomics, intestinal microflora analysis, organoid, and single-cell sequencing techniques, are gaining traction due to their ability to offer comprehensive insights into biomedical research. These emerging approaches hold promise in characterizing the pharmacological roles of H2S in health and diseases. We will critically assess the current literature to clarify the roles of H2S in diseases while also delineating the opportunities and challenges they present in H2S-based pharmacotherapy for CMDs. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT: This comprehensive review covers recent developments in H2S biology and pharmacology in cardiometabolic diseases CMDs. Endogenous H2S and its donors show great promise for the management of CMDs by regulating numerous proteins and signaling pathways. The emergence of new technologies will considerably advance the pharmacological research and clinical translation of H2S.

Using the concept of food as medicine to mitigate inflammation in patients undergoing peritoneal dialysis

The most common kidney replacement therapy (KRT) worldwide is hemodialysis (HD), and only 5%-10% of patients are prescribed peritoneal dialysis (PD) as KRT. Despite PD being a different method, these patients also present particular complications, such as oxidative stress, gut dysbiosis, premature aging, and mitochondrial dysfunction, leading to an inflammation process and high cardiovascular mortality risk. Although recent studies have reported nutritional strategies in patients undergoing HD with attempts to mitigate these complications, more information must be needed for PD patients. Therefore, this review provides a comprehensive analysis of recent studies of nutritional intervention to mitigate inflammation in PD patients.

Comparison of the effect of topical triamcinolone 0.1% cream with sulfur 2.0% cream in the treatment of patients with hand eczema: A randomized controlled trial

BACKGROUND

Hand eczema (HE) is a common and heterogeneous condition. It has a wide range of etiologies and clinical manifestations. In this study the efficacy of triamcinolone 0.1% cream and sulfur 2% creams was compared in treating patients with HE.

METHODS

This randomized, triple-blind clinical trial was performed on 70 patients with HE (including 70 right and 70 left hands). In this study, two creams were used including triamcinolone 0.1% and sulfur 2.0%. Patients were treated with these creams twice a day (once in every 12 h) for 4 weeks. Follow-up was 4 weeks after treatment. Hand Eczema Severity Index (HECSI), itching, dryness, burning sensation, and erythema scores were collected three times during the study and compared between treatment regimens.

RESULTS

Findings showed that both triamcinolone (0.1%) and sulfur (2.0%) creams could significantly reduce the scores of HECSI, itching, dryness, burning sensation, and erythema, and the therapeutic effects lasted for at least 4 weeks after cessation of topical treatment.

CONCLUSION

Topical sulfur cream (2.0%) is as effective as triamcinolone (0.1%) cream in treatment of HE without any prominent adverse reactions.

Garlic oil supplementation blocks inflammatory pyroptosis-related acute lung injury by suppressing the NF-κB/NLRP3 signaling pathway via H2S generation

Acute lung injury (ALI) is a major cause of acute respiratory failure with a high morbidity and mortality rate, and effective therapeutic strategies for ALI remain limited. Inflammatory response is considered crucial for the pathogenesis of ALI. Garlic, a globally used cooking spice, reportedly exhibits excellent anti-inflammatory bioactivity. However, protective effects of garlic against ALI have never been reported. This study aimed to investigate the protective effects of garlic oil (GO) supplementation on lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced ALI models. Hematoxylin and eosin staining, pathology scores, lung myeloperoxidase (MPO) activity measurement, lung wet/dry (W/D) ratio detection, and bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) analysis were performed to investigate ALI histopathology. Real-time polymerase chain reaction, western blotting, and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay were conducted to evaluate the expression levels of inflammatory factors, nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB), NLRP3, pyroptosis-related proteins, and H2S-producing enzymes. GO attenuated LPS-induced pulmonary pathological changes, lung W/D ratio, MPO activity, and inflammatory cytokines in the lungs and BALF. Additionally, GO suppressed LPS-induced NF-κB activation, NLRP3 inflammasome expression, and inflammatory-related pyroptosis. Mechanistically, GO promoted increased H2S production in lung tissues by enhancing the conversion of GO-rich polysulfide compounds or by increasing the expression of H2S-producing enzymes in vivo. Inhibition of endogenous or exogenous H2S production reversed the protective effects of GO on ALI and eliminated the inhibitory effects of GO on NF-κB, NLRP3, and pyroptotic signaling pathways. Overall, these findings indicate that GO has a critical anti-inflammatory effect and protects against LPS-induced ALI by suppressing the NF-κB/NLRP3 signaling pathway via H2S generation.

The potential role of hydrogen sulfide in regulating macrophage phenotypic changes via PINK1/parkin-mediated mitophagy in sepsis-related cardiorenal syndrome

OBJECTIVE

Sepsis is one of major reasons of cardiorenal syndrome type 5 (CRS-5), resulting in irreversible tissue damage and organ dysfunction. Macrophage has been demonstrated to play key role in the pathophysiology of sepsis, highlighting the need to identify therapeutic targets for modulating macrophage phenotype in sepsis.

METHODS AND RESULTS

In this study, a rapid-releasing hydrogen sulfide (H2S) donor NaSH, and a slow-releasing H2S compound S-propargyl-cysteine (SPRC) which is derived from garlic, have been studied for the immune-regulatory effects on macrophages. The NaSH and SPRC showed the potential to protect the heart and kidney from tissue injury induced by LPS. The immunohistochemistry of F4/80+ revealed that the infiltration of macrophages in the heart and kidney tissues of LPS-treated mice was reduced by NaSH and SPRC. In addition, in the LPS-triggered inflammatory cascade of RAW264.7 macrophage cells, NaSH and SPRC exhibited significantly inhibitory effects on the secretion of inflammatory cytokines, production of reactive oxygen species (ROS), and regulation of the macrophage phenotype from M1-like to M2-like. Moreover, autophagy, a crucial process involved in the elimination of impaired proteins and organelles during oxidative stress and immune response, was induced by NaSH and SPRC in the presence of LPS stimulation. Consequently, there was an increase in the number of mitochondria and an improvement in mitochondrial membrane potential. This process was mainly mediated by PINK1/Parkin pathway mediated mitophagy.

DISCUSSION

These results demonstrated that the immunoregulatory effects of H2S donors were through the PINK1/Parkin-mediated mitophagy pathway. Overall, our study provided a new therapeutic direction in LPS-induced cardiorenal injury.

Effect of garlic on the components of metabolic syndrome: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Metabolic diseases are the major causes of macrovascular and microvascular complications which lead to morbidity and mortality. Traditionally, garlic has been used as food and medicine for more than 5000 years. However, efficacy studies have shown conflicting results regarding the garlic effect.

AIM OF THE STUDY

This study aims to evaluate the efficacy of garlic on the components of metabolic syndrome (MetS) in metabolic disease patients.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This study was a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs). Pubmed, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL), and Google scholar were searched till December 25, 2021 for identifying the relevant studies that have shown the effects of garlic on components of metabolic syndrome in metabolic disease patients. The mean difference with 95% CI was calculated using fixed-effect or random-effect models.

RESULTS

The effect of garlic has shown significant changes on waist circumference (p-value= <0.0001), total cholesterol (p < 0.0001), low density lipoprotein (p = 0.01), high density lipoprotein (p < 0.00001), triglycerides (p < 0.00001), systolic blood pressure (p < 0.00001), diastolic blood pressure (p < 0.00001), glucose (p < 0.00001), Homeostatic Model Assessment for Insulin Resistance (HOMA-IR) (p = 0.04), C-reactive protein (p < 0.00001), tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α (p = 0.002), interleukin (IL)-6 (p = 0.0001). Subgroup analysis has shown the favorable effects of garlic in metabolic disease patients.

CONCLUSION

Our meta-analysis results confirm the findings that garlic could be useful as an anti-hyperlipidemic, anti-hyperglycemic, anti-hypertensive and anti-inflammatory drug.

Garlic prevents the oxidizing and inflammatory effects of sepsis induced by bacterial lipopolysaccharide at the systemic and aortic level in the rat. Role of trpv1

Garlic (Allium sativum) possesses healing properties for diseases like systemic arterial hypertension, cancer and diabetes, among others. Its main component, allicin, binds to the Transient Receptor Potential Vanilloid Type 1 (TRPV1). In this study, we investigated TRPV1's involvement in the regulation of various molecules at the systemic and aortic levels in Wistar rats treated with bacterial lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and garlic to activate the receptor. The experimental groups were as follows: 1) Control, 2) LPS, 3) Garlic, and 4) LPS + Garlic. Using Uv-visible spectrophotometry and capillary zone electrophoresis, we measured the levels of nitric oxide (NO), biopterins BH2 and BH4, total antioxidant capacity (TAC) and oxidizing capacity (OXCA). We also analyzed molecules related to vascular homeostasis such as angiotensin Ang 1-7 and Ang II, as well as endothelin ET-1. In addition, we assessed the inflammatory response by determining the levels of interleukin-6 (IL-6), tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNFα), and galectin-3 (GTN-3). For cell damage assessment, we measured levels of malondialdehyde (MDA), malonate (MTO) and 8-hydroxy-2-deoxyguanosine (8HO2dG). The results showed that LPS influenced the NO pathway at both systemic and aortic levels by increasing OXCA and reducing TAC. It also disrupted vascular homeostasis by increasing Ang-II and ET-1, while decreasing Ang1-7 levels. IL-6, TNFα, GTN-3, as well as MDA, MTO, and 8HO2dG were significantly elevated compared to the control group. The expression of iNOS was increased, but TRPV1 remained unaffected by LPS. However, garlic treatment effectively mitigated the effects of LPS and significantly increased TRPV1 expression. Furthermore, LPS caused a significant decrease in calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) in the aorta, which was counteracted by garlic treatment. Overall, TRPV1 appears to play a crucial role in regulating oxidative stress and the molecules involved in damage and inflammation induced by LPS. Thus, studying TRPV1, CGRP, and allicin may offer a potential strategy for mitigating inflammatory and oxidative stress in sepsis.

Allyl isothiocyanate mitigates airway inflammation and constriction in a house dust mite-induced allergic asthma model via upregulation of tight junction proteins and the TRPA1 modulation

Asthma is a chronic inflammatory disease that has been associated with insufficient vegetable intake. Allyl Isothiocyanate (AITC) is a natural isothiocyanate found in cruciferous plants with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant abilities. Our study aimed to investigate the potential effect of AITC on tracheal constriction in a house dust mite (HDM)-induced asthma animal model, and explore the underlying mechanisms. To investigate the effects of AITC on HDM-induced allergic asthma model, established by intranasally administering extracts of HDM and AITC or DEX was given orally for four weeks. Flexivent SCIREQ, H&E staining, ELISA were employed to evaluate the lung function and the cytokine secretion. Possible mechanisms were determined by Western blot. Rat tracheae contraction was measured by Labscribe. We utilized lung epithelial cells (BEAS-2B) to assess the adhesion response to the combination of inflammatory factors TNF-α and IL-4. The results of the study showed that AITC significantly reduced tracheal constriction in ex vivo experiments and improved lung function in in vivo experiments compared to HDM-induced mice. Additionally, AITC decreased cytokine secretion, inflammatory cell infiltration in the lung, and constriction-related proteins expression in both lung and tracheae. Moreover, AITC increased tight junction-related protein expression in lung tissues. In vitro experiments showed that AITC had a protective effect through TRPA1 channel without affecting cell viability. Our results demonstrate that AITC has potential anti-asthma effects in HDM-induced asthma models by alleviating airway inflammation and airway constriction through increasing tight junction-related protein expression and suppressing Ca2+ signaling. These findings suggest that AITC may be a beneficial adjuvant therapy in asthma treatment.

Bioactivity and health effects of garlic essential oil: A review

Garlic (Allium sativum L.), the underground bulb of the Allium plant in the family Liliaceae, is a common and popular spice that has historically been used to prevent and treat many different diseases such as pain, deafness, diarrhea, tumors, and other healthy problems. Garlic essential oil contains a variety of organosulfur compounds, such as the most representative diallyl disulfides (DADS) and diallyl trisulfides (DATS), which have attracted great interest in medicine, food, and agriculture because of their rich biological activities. This paper reviews the research progress on the composition and bioactivities of garlic essential oil mixtures and the bioactivity of some typical monomeric sulfides in garlic essential oil. The active mechanisms of representative sulfides in garlic essential oil were analyzed, and the applications of garlic essential oil in functional food, food additives, and clinical treatment were discussed. Combined with the current research status, the limitations and development direction of garlic essential oil in the study of molecular mechanism were discussed, which is of great significance to the development of garlic essential oil as a natural and safe alternative medicine for treatment.

Diallyl trisulfide inhibits monosodium urate-induced NLRP3 inflammasome activation via NOX3/4-dependent mitochondrial oxidative stress in RAW 264.7 and bone marrow-derived macrophages

BACKGROUND

Monosodium urate (MSU) crystals are associated with gouty inflammatory diseases. MSU-associated inflammation is majorly triggered by NOD-like receptor protein 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome that promotes interleukin (IL)-1β secretion. Although diallyl trisulfide (DATS) is well-known polysulfide garlic compounds with anti-inflammatory effects, its action in MSU-induced inflammasome activation has not been known yet.

PURPOSE

The objective of the current study was to investigate anti-inflammasome effects and mechanisms of DATS in RAW 264.7 and bone marrow-derived macrophages (BMDM).

METHODS

The concentrations of IL-1β were analyzed with enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. The MSU-induced mitochondrial damage and reactive oxygen species (ROS) production were detected by fluorescence microscope and flow cytometry. The protein expressions of NLRP3 signaling molecules, NADPH oxidase (NOX) 3/4 were assessed with Western blotting.

RESULTS

DATS suppressed MSU-induced IL-1β and caspase-1 accompanied by decreased inflammasome complex formation in RAW 264.7 and BMDM. In addition, DATS restored mitochondrial damage. DATS downregulated NOX 3/4 that were upregulated by MSU as predicted by gene microarray and confirmed by Western blotting.

CONCLUSION

This study first reports mechanistic finding that DATS alleviates MSU-induced NLRP3 inflammasome by mediating NOX3/4-dependent mitochondrial ROS production in macrophages in vitro and ex vivo, suggesting DATS could be effective therapeutic candidate for gouty inflammatory condition.

The Role of Diet as a Modulator of the Inflammatory Process in the Neurological Diseases

Neurological diseases are recognized as major causes of disability and mortality worldwide. Due to the dynamic progress of diseases such as Alzheimer’s disease (AD), Parkinson’s Disease (PD), Schizophrenia, Depression, and Multiple Sclerosis (MD), scientists are mobilized to look for new and more effective methods of interventions. A growing body of evidence suggests that inflammatory processes and an imbalance in the composition and function of the gut microbiome, which play a critical role in the pathogenesis of various neurological diseases and dietary interventions, such as the Mediterranean diet the DASH diet, or the ketogenic diet can have beneficial effects on their course. The aim of this review was to take a closer look at the role of diet and its ingredients in modulating inflammation associated with the development and/or progression of central nervous system diseases. Presented data shows that consuming a diet abundant in fruits, vegetables, nuts, herbs, spices, and legumes that are sources of anti-inflammatory elements such as omega-3 fatty acids, polyphenols, vitamins, essential minerals, and probiotics while avoiding foods that promote inflammation, create a positive brain environment and is associated with a reduced risk of neurological diseases. Personalized nutritional interventions may constitute a non-invasive and effective strategy in combating neurological disorders.

Garlic Extract Participates in the Proliferation and Apoptosis of Nonsmall Cell Lung Cancer Cells Via Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress Pathway

Objective

To investigate the effect of garlic extract (GE) on the proliferation and apoptosis of cell lines A549 and H1299 in lung cancer (LC).

Methods

A549 and H1299 cells with well-developed logarithmic growth were added with GE at a concentration of 0 μg/ml, 25 μg/ml, 50 μg/M, 75 μg/ml, and 100 μg/ml, respectively. The inhibition of A549 cell proliferation was detected using CCK-8 after cultured for 24 h, 48 h, and 72 h. The apoptosis of A549 cells was analyzed via flow cytometry (FCM) after 24 h of cultivation. In vitro migration of A549 and H1299 cells was determined by cell wound scratch assay after 0 h and 24 h culture. The caspase-3 and caspase-9 protein expression levels in A549 and H1299 cells were evaluated through western blot after 24 h of cultivation.

Results

Colony formation and EdU assays revealed that Z-ajoene could inhibit cell viability and cell proliferation in NSCLC cells. After 24 h culture, there was no significant difference in the proliferation rate of A549 and H1299 cells with different GE concentrations (P > 0.05). A remarkable proliferation rate difference emerged between A549 and H1299 cells with different GE concentrations after 48 and 72 hours of cultivation. The proliferation rate of A549 and H1299 cells in the experiment group was significantly lower than that in the control group. With an elevated level of GE concentration, the proliferation rate of A549 and H1299 cells decreased (P < 0.05) while the apoptotic rate increased continuously.

Conclusion

GE could exert toxic effects on A549 and H1299 cells, inhibit cell proliferation, promote apoptosis, and attenuate cell migration. Meanwhile, it might induce apoptosis of A549 and H1299 cells through the caspase signal pathway, which is positively correlated with the mass action concentration and is expected to be a new drug for LC treatment.

In Vitro Antimicrobial Effectiveness Tests Using Garlic (Allium sativum) against Salmonella enterica Subspecies enterica Serovar Enteritidis

In recent years, there has been a more prudent use of drugs on livestock farms and alternative products have been considered, with a view of reducing the risk of the onset of antibiotic resistance. Salmonella enterica subsp. enterica serovar Enteritidis (S. Enteritidis) may cause disease in poultry, and it is also responsible for human food poisoning. The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of garlic against S. Enteritidis and to define its Minimal Inhibitory Concentration (MIC)₉₀ and MIC₅₀ values. The study was carried out in vitro, testing 26 S. Enteritidis strains identified in laying hens from various farms in Southern Italy. A preliminary efficacy trial was carried out on two strains, S. Enteritidis and Escherichia coli, using a garlic concentration of 10 mg/mL (1%). Later, 26 strains of S. Enteritidis at 10⁶ Colony Forming Unit (CFU) and 10⁴ CFU were tested with different concentrations of garlic, ranging from 10 mg/mL to 1 mg/mL. Based on the results, intermediate concentrations of garlic, from 5 mg/mL to 4 mg/mL and 4 mg/mL to 3 mg/mL, were used to test 10⁶ CFU and 10⁴ CFU, respectively. The data were statistically analyzed. The MIC₉₀ was 4.75 mg/mL for strains tested at 10⁶ CFU and 4 mg/mL for strains tested at 10⁴ CFU. The results highlight garlic's potential to inhibit the growth of Salmonella enterica ser. Enteritidis in vitro. Efficacy was dependent on the microbial concentration used. In vivo efficacy trials will be crucial to confirm the efficacy of garlic against S. Enteritidis and to assess whether garlic can be used in poultry flocks to prevent the spread of the bacterium in the field.

Secondary Metabolite Profile and Pharmacological Opportunities of Lettuce Plants following Selenium and Sulfur Enhancement

Selenium (Se) is an essential trace nutrient for humans and animals owing to its role in redox regulation, thyroid hormone control factors, immunity, inflammatory reactions, brain activities, and carbohydrate regulation. It is also important to support muscle development, as well as for reproductive and cardiovascular well-being. Furthermore, sulfur is known to be a healing element, due to the remarkable function of specialized and secondary S-containing compounds. The scope of the current study was to determine the impact of Se and S enrichment on the secondary metabolite accumulation and antibacterial and NO inhibition activities in green and red leaf lettuce (V1 and V2, respectively). The plants were grown in a hydroponic system supplied with different S concentrations (S0: 0, S1: 1 mM and S2: 1.5 mM K₂SO₄) via the nutrient solution and foliar-applied varying levels of Se (0, 0.2 and 2.6 µM). Electrospray ionization-quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry (ESI-QTOF/MS) combined with ultra-performance liquid chromatography (UPLC) was used to identify the secondary metabolites in green and red lettuce. The results indicated that extracts of the biofortified lettuce were not cytotoxic to Vero kidney cells at the highest concentration tested of 1 mg/mL. The ESI/MS of the tentatively identified metabolites showed that the response values of 5-O-caffeoylquinic acid, cyanidin 3-O-galactoside, quercetin 3-O-(6''-acetyl-glucoside) and quercetin 3-O-malonylglucoside were induced synergistically under higher Se and S levels in red lettuce plants. The acetone extract of red lettuce had antibacterial activity against Pseudomonas aeruginosa, with a minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of 0.156 and 0.625 μg/mL under S2/Se1 and S2/Se2 treatments, respectively. As with antibacterial activity, the acetone extract of green (V1) lettuce treated with adequate (S1) and higher S (S2) under Se-limiting conditions showed the ability to inhibit nitric oxide (NO) release from macrophages. NO production by macrophages was inhibited by 50% at respective concentrations of 106.1 ± 2.4 and 101.0 ± 0.6 μg/mL with no toxic effect on the cells, in response to S1 and S2, respectively, under Se-deficient conditions (Se0). Furthermore, the red cultivar (V2) exhibited the same effect as the green cultivar (V1) regarding NO inhibition, with IC₅₀ = 113.0 ± 4.2 μg/mL, in response to S1/Se2 treatments. Collectively, the promising NO inhibitory effect and antibacterial activity of red lettuce under the above-mentioned conditions might be attributed to the production of flavonoid glycosides and phenylpropanoic acid esters under the same condition. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report to show the novel approach of the NO inhibitory effect of Se and S enrichment in food crops, as an indicator for the potential of Se and S as natural anti-inflammatory agents.

Communication in non-communicable diseases (NCDs) and role of immunomodulatory nutraceuticals in their management

Conveyance of pathogens between organisms causes communicable diseases. On the other hand, a non-communicable disease (NCD) was always thought to have no causative transmissible infective agents. Today, this clear distinction is increasingly getting blurred and NCDs are found to be associated with some transmissible components. The human microbiota carries a congregation of microbes, the majority and the most widely studied being bacteria in the gut. The adult human gut harbors ginormous inhabitant microbes, and the microbiome accommodates 150-fold more genes than the host genome. Microbial communities share a mutually beneficial relationship with the host, especially with respect to host physiology including digestion, immune responses, and metabolism. This review delineates the connection between environmental factors such as infections leading to gut dysbiosis and NCDs and explores the evidence regarding possible causal link between them. We also discuss the evidence regarding the value of appropriate therapeutic immunomodulatory nutritional interventions to reduce the development of such diseases. We behold such immunomodulatory effects have the potential to influence in various NCDs and restore homeostasis. We believe that the beginning of the era of microbiota-oriented personalized treatment modalities is not far away.

Chemoprevention effect of the Mediterranean diet on colorectal cancer: Current studies and future prospects

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the third most common cancer and the second most deadly cancer worldwide. Nevertheless, more than 70% of CRC cases are resulted from sporadic tumorigenesis and are not inherited. Since adenoma-carcinoma development is a slow process and may take up to 20 years, diet-based chemoprevention could be an effective approach in sporadic CRC. The Mediterranean diet is an example of a healthy diet pattern that consists of a combination of nutraceuticals that prevent several chronic diseases and cancer. Many epidemiological studies have shown the correlation between adherence to the Mediterranean diet and low incidence of CRC. The goal of this review is to shed the light on the anti-inflammatory and anti-colorectal cancer potentials of the natural bioactive compounds derived from the main foods in the Mediterranean diet.

A Cyclic Disulfide Diastereomer From Bioactive Fraction of Bruguiera gymnorhiza Shows Anti-Pseudomonas aeruginosa Activity

Pseudomonas aeruginosa is an opportunistic pathogen that commonly causes hospital-acquired infection and is of great concern in immunocompromised patients. The quorum sensing (QS) mechanism of P. aeruginosa is well studied and known to be responsible for pathogenicity and virulence. The QS inhibitor derived from the natural product can be an important therapeutic agent for pathogen control. The present study reports the role of Bruguiera gymnorhiza purified fraction (BG138) in inhibiting virulence factor production, biofilm formation, quorum sensing molecules, and expression of QS-related genes of P. aeruginosa. Structural characterization of BG138 by high resolution mass spectrometry, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, 1D (¹H and ¹³C NMR) and 2D NMR reveals that the fraction is a mixture of already known cyclic disulfide diastereomer, namely, brugierol and isobrugierol. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of BG138 against P. aeruginosa was 32 μg/ml. Biofilm formation was significantly reduced at sub-MIC concentrations of BG138. Scanning electron microscopy analysis reports the concentration-dependent biofilm inhibition and morphological changes of P. aeruginosa. Flow cytometry–based cell viability assay showed that P. aeruginosa cells exhibit increased propidium iodide uptake on treatment with 32 and 64 μg/ml of BG138. At sub-MIC concentrations, BG138 exhibited significant inhibition of virulence factors and reduced swimming and swarming motility of P. aeruginosa. Furthermore, the effect of BG138 on the expression of QS-related genes was investigated by qRT-PCR. Taken together, our study reports the isolation and structural characterization of bioactive fraction BG138 from B. gymnorhiza and its anti-biofilm, anti-virulence, anti-quorum sensing, and cell-damaging activities against P. aeruginosa.

Macrophage polarization by potential nutraceutical compounds: A strategic approach to counteract inflammation in atherosclerosis

Chronic inflammation represents a main event in the onset and progression of atherosclerosis and is closely associated with oxidative stress in a sort of vicious circle that amplifies and sustains all stages of the disease. Key players of atherosclerosis are monocytes/macrophages. According to their pro- or anti-inflammatory phenotype and biological functions, lesional macrophages can release various mediators and enzymes, which in turn contribute to plaque progression and destabilization or, alternatively, lead to its resolution. Among the factors connected to atherosclerotic disease, lipid species carried by low density lipoproteins and pro-oxidant stimuli strongly promote inflammatory events in the vasculature, also by modulating the macrophage phenotyping. Therapies specifically aimed to balance macrophage inflammatory state are increasingly considered as powerful tools to counteract plaque formation and destabilization. In this connection, several molecules of natural origin have been recognized to be active mediators of diverse metabolic and signaling pathways regulating lipid homeostasis, redox state, and inflammation; they are, thus, considered as promising candidates to modulate macrophage responsiveness to pro-atherogenic stimuli. The current knowledge of the capability of nutraceuticals to target macrophage polarization and to counteract atherosclerotic lesion progression, based mainly on in vitro investigation, is summarized in the present review.

Potential of Hibiscus sabdariffa L. Calyx (Rosella) extract as antibacterial agent in dental disease: Phytochemical and chemical components profiling

Chemical characteristics of natural products are influenced by different external factors, varying according to the geographic origin. The ethanol extract of Hibiscus sabdariffa L calyx Indonesia has been studied in vivo and in vitro provide potential effect for dental field uses. Ethanol extract showed antibacterial to Streptococcus sanguinis as an inducer gingivitis, had an effect on the treatment of oral mucosa ulceration, and could inhibit the development of alveolar bone destruction. This study aims to determine the chemical groups and components of ethanol extract of H. sabdariffa L. calyces (Indonesia origin). Chemical group of ethanol extract H. sabdariffa L calyx Indonesia was analysis through phytochemical screening, whereas chemical components were detected through gas chromatography-mass spectrometry analysis. Saponins, tannins, phenolic, flavonoids, triterpenoids and glycosides, and 17 chemical components were identified in the ethanol extract of H. sabdariffa L calyx Indonesia. Among the chemical components, fatty acids group showed the most dominant. For standardization and develop of oral drug preparation, a better chemical components and phytochemical profiling are essential because the extract quality of herbs has various quality.

Construction of sulfur-containing compounds with anti-cancer stem cell activity using thioacrolein derived from garlic based on nature-inspired scaffolds

Sulfur-containing compounds, such as cyclic compounds with a vinyl sulfane structure, exhibit a wide range of biological activities including anticancer activity. Therefore, the development of efficient strategies to synthesize such compounds is a remarkable achievement. We have developed a unique approach for the rapid and modular preparation of nature-inspired cyclic and acyclic sulfur-containing compounds using thioacrolein, a naturally occurring chemically unstable intermediate. We constructed thiopyranone derivatives through the regioselective sequential double Diels-Alder reaction of thioacrolein produced by allicin, a major component in garlic, and two molecules of silyl enol ether as the diene partner. The cytotoxicity toward cancer stem cells of the thiopyranones was equal to or higher than that of (Z)-ajoene (positive control) derived from garlic, and the thiopyranones had higher chemical stability than (Z)-ajoene.

Garlic: An Alternative Treatment for Group B Streptococcus

Prenatal screening in pregnant women between 35 and 37 weeks of gestation and intrapartum antibiotic prophylaxis has successfully reduced the incidence of neonatal morbidity and mortality related to Streptococcus agalactiae. However, the contamination rates of newborns are still considerable. In traditional and folk medicines, it has been observed that garlic has been effective in treating S. agalactiae infection. The aim of this study was to isolate and identify the active compounds from garlic that have antimicrobial activity against S. agalactiae. In order to do this, SP80 (Sep-Pak 80%) obtained from crude garlic extract (CGE) was fractionated by reverse-phase ultrafast liquid chromatography with UV (RP-UFLC-UV) using a Shim-pack PREP-ODS column. All fractions obtained were tested using a microbial growth inhibition test against the S. agalactiae strain (ATCC 12386). Five clinical isolates were used to confirm the action of the fractions with antimicrobial activity, and the bacterial growth curve was determined. Identification of the antimicrobial compounds was carried out through liquid chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry (LC/MS) and nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR). The active compounds found to exhibit antimicrobial activity were Ƴ-glutamyl-S-allyl-cysteine (fraction 18), Ƴ-glutamyl-phenylalanine (fraction 20), and the two stereoisomers (E and Z) of ajoene (fraction 42). The MICs of these fractions were 5.41 mg/ml, 4.60 mg/ml, and 0.16 mg/ml, respectively, and they inhibited the growth of the clinical isolates tested. Antimicrobial compounds from garlic may be a promising source in the search for new drugs against S. agalactiae. IMPORTANCE Invasive disease due to group B streptococcal (GBS) infection results in a wide spectrum of clinical disease in neonates. Maternal colonization by GBS is the primary risk factor for disease. The strategy recommended by the Centers for Disease Control to reduce neonatal GBS infection is the culture-based screening of all pregnant women at 35 to 37 weeks of gestation and intrapartum antibiotic prophylaxis (IAP). However, indiscriminate use of antibiotics favors the selection and spread of resistant bacteria. The global scenario of antibacterial resistance has been of great concern for public health, and natural products can be a source of new substances to help us grapple with this problem.

Nanotechnological approach to delivering nutraceuticals as promising drug candidates for the treatment of atherosclerosis

Atherosclerosis is Caesar's sword, which poses a huge risk to the present generation. Understanding the atherosclerotic disease cycle would allow ensuring improved diagnosis, better care, and treatment. Unfortunately, a highly effective and safe way of treating atherosclerosis in the medical community remains a continuous challenge. Conventional treatments have shown considerable success, but have some adverse effects on the human body. Natural derived medications or nutraceuticals have gained immense popularity in the treatment of atherosclerosis due to their decreased side effects and toxicity-related issues. In hindsight, the contribution of nutraceuticals in imparting enhanced clinical efficacy against atherosclerosis warrants more experimental evidence. On the other hand, nanotechnology and drug delivery systems (DDS) have revolutionized the way therapeutics are performed and researchers have been constantly exploring the positive effects that DDS brings to the field of therapeutic techniques. It could be as exciting as ever to apply nano-mediated delivery of nutraceuticals as an additional strategy to target the atherosclerotic sites boasting high therapeutic efficiency of the nutraceuticals and fewer side effects.

The Potential Benefits of Using Garlic Oil and Its Active Constituent, Dially Disulphide, in Combination With Carvedilol in Ameliorating Isoprenaline-Induced Cardiac Damage in Rats

Garlic oil and its primary component, diallyl disulphide (DADS), were tested in rats with isoprenaline (ISO) induced myocardial infarction for cardioprotective benefits when combined with carvedilol. Garlic oil (GO) was administered to rats (Sprague-dawley strain) at two doses of 50 and 100 mg/kg body weight, whereas DADS was given in two doses of 4.47 and 8.94 mg/kg, respectively. The animals were given oral doses of garlic oil and DADS on alternate days for 3 weeks, either alone or in combination with carvedilol (2 mg/kg). Cardiac injury was done by administering two doses of isoprenaline (150 mg/kg, sc) to all treated groups except the first, which served as a control. Biomarkers of cardiac injury and histological investigations were studied for their potential in reducing ISO-induced myocardial damage. Animals pretreated with GO, DADS, and carvedilol had significantly (p < 0.01) lowered heart weight and heart to body weight ratio. In rats treated with carvedilol plus high dosages of garlic oil (100 mg/kg, p.o) and DADS (8.94 mg/kg, p.o) compared to the ISO control and carvedilol group, the activities of SOD and Catalase were enhanced in cardiac tissue homogenate. When compared to ISO control and carvedilol group, the activities of LDH and CK-MB were elevated in heart tissue homogenate with a simultaneous reduction in their serum levels in animals treated with a combination of carvedilol with high doses of garlic oil (100 mg/kg, p.o) and DADS (8.94 mg/kg, p.o). Overall, combining garlic oil or DADS with carvedilol improved the cardioprotective effect of carvedilol and protected rats from ISO-induced myocardial infarction. However, more research is needed to establish the mechanism of garlic oil and DADS interaction with carvedilol.

Biomedical Effects of the Phytonutrients Turmeric, Garlic, Cinnamon, Graviola, and Oregano: A Comprehensive Review

Phytonutrients are plant foods that contain many natural bioactive compounds, called phytochemicals, which show specific biological activities. These phytonutrients and their phytochemicals may play an important role in health care maintaining normal organism functions (as preventives) and fighting against diseases (as therapeutics). Phytonutrients’ components are the primary metabolites (i.e., proteins, carbohydrates, and lipids) and phytochemicals or secondary metabolites (i.e., phenolics, alkaloids, organosulfides, and terpenes). For years, several phytonutrients and their phytochemicals have demonstrated specific pharmacological and therapeutic effects in human health such as anticancer, antioxidant, antiviral, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, antifungal, and immune response. This review summarizes the effects of the most studied or the most popular phytonutrients (i.e., turmeric, garlic, cinnamon, graviola, and oregano) and any reported contraindications. This article also presents the calculated physicochemical properties of the main phytochemicals in the selected phytonutrients using Lipinski’s, Veber’s, and Ghose’s rules. Based on our revisions for this article, all these phytonutrients have consistently shown great potential as preventives and therapeutics on many diseases in vitro, in vivo, and clinical studies.

Cardioprotective Potential of Garlic Oil and Its Active Constituent, Diallyl Disulphide, in Presence of Carvedilol during Chronic Isoprenaline Injection-Mediated Myocardial Necrosis in Rats

In isoprenaline (ISO)-induced myocardial infarcted rats, garlic oil (GO) and its main ingredient, diallyl disulfide (DADS), were examined for cardioprotective effects when used with carvedilol (CAR). GO, DADS and CAR were given to rats in their respective groups, either alone or together, with the addition of isoprenaline (3 mg/kg/day, subcutaneously) during the last 10 days of treatment. At the end of 14 days of treatment, blood samples were collected, the hearts were excised under anesthesia and weighed. Heart tissue homogenate was used to measure superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), and thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS). Furthermore, the serum activities of cardiac markers, including lactate dehydrogenase, creatine kinase, and cardiac troponin, were checked. Moreover, inflammatory markers including tumor necrosis factor alpha, interleukin one beta, interleukin six, and kappa bp65 subunit were assessed. Rats that received GO, DADS, and CAR exhibited a significant increase in the cardiac antioxidant enzyme activities with a simultaneous decrease in serum cardiac markers enzymes and inflammatory markers. The TBARS were significantly reduced in rats that received treatment. The addition of carvedilol to GO or DADS significantly elevated antioxidant activities and decreased the release of cardiac enzymes into blood circulation. Both DADS and GOl were almost similar in efficacy, indicating the potential role of DADS in garlic oil-mediated cardioprotection. Combining GO or DADS with CAR increased CAR’s cardioprotective impact and protected rats from developing ISO-induced myocardial infarction.

Protective Effects Induced by a Hydroalcoholic Allium sativum Extract in Isolated Mouse Heart

The aim of the present study was to investigate the possible protective effects of a garlic hydroalcoholic extract on the burden of oxidative stress and inflammation occurring on mouse heart specimens exposed to E. coli lipopolysaccharide (LPS), which is a well-established inflammatory stimulus. Headspace solid-phase microextraction combined with the gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (HS-SPME/GC-MS) technique was applied to determine the volatile fraction of the garlic powder, and the HS-SPME conditions were optimized for each of the most representative classes of compounds. CIEL*a*b* colorimetric analyses were performed on the powder sample at the time of delivery, after four and after eight months of storage at room temperature in the dark, to evaluate the color changing. Freshly prepared hydroalcoholic extract was also evaluated in its color character. Furthermore, the hydroalcoholic extract was analyzed through GC-MS. The extract was found to be able to significantly inhibit LPS-induced prostaglandin (PG) E₂ and 8-iso-PGF_2α levels, as well as mRNA levels of cyclooxygenase (COX)-2, interleukin (IL)-6, and nuclear factor-kB (NF-kB), in heart specimens. Concluding, our findings showed that the garlic hydroalcoholic extract exhibited cardioprotective effects on multiple inflammatory and oxidative stress pathways.

Relationship between Volatile Composition and Bioactive Potential of Vegetables and Fruits of Regular Consumption-An Integrative Approach

In recent years, there has been a growing interest in studying and exploring the potential health benefits of foods, mainly from vegetables and fruits from regular intake. The presence of secondary metabolites, namely polyphenols, carotenoids and terpenes, in certain food matrices seems to contribute to their functional properties, expressed through an increased prevention in the development of certain chronic diseases, namely coronary heart diseases, neurodegenerative diseases, cancer and diabetes. However, some foods' volatile secondary metabolites also present important bioactive properties, although this is a poorly scientifically explored field. In this context, and in order to explore the potential bioactivity of volatile metabolites in different vegetables and fruits from regular consumption, the volatile composition was established using a green extraction technique, solid phase microextraction in headspace mode (HS-SPME), combined with gas chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (GC-MS). A total of 320 volatile metabolites, comprising 51 terpenic compounds, 45 organosulfur compounds, 31 aldehydes, 37 esters, 29 ketones, 28 alcohols, 23 furanic compounds, 22 hydrocarbons, 19 benzene compounds, 13 nitrogenous compounds, 9 carboxylic acids, 7 ethers, 4 halogenated compounds and 3 naphthalene derivatives, were positively identified. Each investigated fruit and vegetable showed a specific volatile metabolomic profile. The obtained results revealed that terpenic compounds, to which are associated antimicrobial, antioxidant, and anticancer activities, are the most predominant chemical family in beetroot (61%), orange carrot (58%) and white carrot (61%), while organosulfur compounds (antiviral activity) are dominant in onion, garlic and watercress. Broccoli and spinach are essentially constituted by alcohols and aldehydes (enzyme-inhibition and antimicrobial properties), while fruits from the Solanaceae family are characterized by esters in tamarillo and aldehydes in tomato.

Design and synthesis of garlic-related unsymmetrical thiosulfonates as potential Alzheimer's disease therapeutics: In vitro and in silico study

Garlic contains a wide range of organosulfur compounds, which exhibit a broad spectrum of biological activities. Amongst the sulfur-containing compounds in garlic, the thiosulfonates are considerably popular in various fields. In light of this, we decided to investigate the enzyme inhibition ability of thiosulfonates. In this paper, the synthesis and biological activity of a small library of unsymmetrical thiosulfonates as inhibitors of acetylcholinesterase (AChE) and butyrylcholinesterase (BChE) are described. The activity evaluation revealed nanomolar IC₅₀ and K_i values against both enzymes tested. Furthermore, molecular docking studies allowed for the determination of possible binding interactions between the thiosulfonates and AChE.

Natural Sulfurs Inhibit LPS-Induced Inflammatory Responses through NF-κB Signaling in CCD-986Sk Skin Fibroblasts

Lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced inflammatory response leads to serious damage, up to and including tumorigenesis. Natural mineral sulfur, non-toxic sulfur (NTS), and methylsulfonylmethane (MSM) have anti-inflammatory activity that may inhibit LPS-induced inflammation. We hypothesized that sulfur compounds could inhibit LPS-induced inflammatory responses in CCD-986Sk skin fibroblasts. We used Western blotting and real-time PCR to analyze molecular signaling in treated and untreated cultures. We also used flow cytometry for cell surface receptor analysis, comet assays to evaluate DNA damage, and ELISA-based cytokine detection. LPS induced TLR4 activation and NF-κB signaling via canonical and protein kinase C (PKC)-dependent pathways, while NTS and MSM downregulated that response. NTS and MSM also inhibited LPS-induced nuclear accumulation and binding of NF-κB to proinflammatory cytokines COX-2, IL-1β, and IL-6. Finally, the sulfur compounds suppressed LPS-induced ROS accumulation and DNA damage in CCD-986Sk cells. These results suggest that natural sulfur compounds could be used to treat inflammation and may be useful in the development of cosmetics.

Repurposing of the Herbals as Immune-Boosters in the Prevention and Management of COVID-19: A Review

Coronavirus disease (COVID) is highly contagious, and negligence of it causes high morbidity and mortality globally. The highly infectious viral disease caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) was abbreviated as COVID-19 (Coronavirus disease 2019) by World Health Organization first time on February 11, 2020, and later on, WHO declared COVID-19 as a global pandemic on 11/3/2020. Epidemiological studies demonstrated that the SARS CoV-2 infects the overall population, irrespective of age, gender, or ethnic variation, but it was observed in clinical studies that older and compromised immunity population is much more prone to COVID-19. SARS-CoV-2 majorly spread through aeration route in droplet form on sneezing and coughing, or by contact when touching eyes, nose or mouth with the infected hands or any other organs, resulting from mild to severe range of SARS-CoV-2 infection. This literature-based review was done by searching the relevant SCI and SCOPUS papers on the pandemic, SARS-CoV-2 and COVID-19, herbal formulation, and Ayurveda from the databases, Academia, Google Scholar, PubMed, and ResearchGate. The present review attempts to recognize the therapeutic strategies to combat COVID-19 because of the current human risk. Indian system of medicine, including herbals, has immense potential in treating and managing various viral infections and provides evidence to utilize Ayurvedic medication to improve immunity. Cumulative research findings suggest that Ayurvedic formulations and herbal immunomodulators (Tino sporacordifolia, Withania somnifera, Crocus sativus, Zafran, Allium sativum, Zingiber officinale, Albizia lebbek, Terminalia chebula, Piper longum, Mangifera indica, Ocimum sanctum, Centella asiatica ) are promising in the treatment of outrageous viral infections without exerting adverse effects. Considering the ancient wisdom of knowledge, the herbal formulations would compel healthcare policymakers to endorse Ayurveda formulations to control the COVID-19 pandemic significantly.

Therapeutic opportunities of edible antiviral plants for COVID-19

The pandemic of Serious Acute Respiratory Syndrome Corona Virus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) that produces corona virus disease (COVID-19) has challenged the entire mankind by rapidly spreading globally in 210 countries affecting over 25 million people and about 1 million deaths worldwide. It continues to spread, afflicting the health system globally. So far there is no remedy for the ailment and the available antiviral regimens have been unsatisfactory for the clinical outcomes and the mode of treatment has been mainly supportive for the prevention of COVID-19-induced morbidity and mortality. From the time immortal the traditional plant-based ethno-medicines have provided the leads for the treatment of infectious diseases. Phytopharmaceuticals have provided potential and less toxic antiviral drugs as compared to conventional modern therapeutics which are associated with severe toxicities. The ethnopharmacological knowledge about plants has provided food supplements and nutraceuticals as a promise for prevention and treatment of the current pandemic. In this review article, we have attempted to comprehend the information about the edible medicinal plant materials with potential antiviral activity specifically against RNA virus which additionally possess property to improve immunity along with external and internal respiration and exhibit anti-inflammatory properties for the prevention and treatment of the disease. This will open an arena for the development of novel nutraceutical herbal formulations as an alternative therapy that can be used for the prevention and treatment of COVID-19.

The oil of garlic, Allium sativum L. (Amaryllidaceae), as a potential protectant against Anisakis spp. Type II (L3) (Nematoda) infection in Wistar rats

The consumption of inadequately thermally treated fish is a public health risk due to the possible propagation of Anisakis larvae. The present study demonstrated the physiological and histopathological changes that accompanied an oral inoculation of crude extracts from fresh and thermally treated Anisakis Type II (L3) in rats. Worms were isolated from a marine fish and examined and identified using light and scanning electron microscopy. The study was performed in 6 rat groups: control (I), garlic oil (GO) inoculated (II), fresh L3 inoculated (III), thermally treated L3 inoculated (IV), fresh L3 + GO inoculated (V), and a thermally treated L3 + GO inoculated (VI) groups. Rats inoculated with fresh and thermally treated L3 showed abnormal liver and kidney functions associated with the destruction of normal architecture. GO produced a protective effect in rat groups inoculated with L3 extracts + GO via the amelioration of liver and kidney functions, which was confirmed by the marked normal structure on histology. Cooking of L3-infected fish induced severe alterations compared to uncooked fish. The administration of garlic before and after fish eating is recommended to avoid the dangerous effect of anisakids, even if they are cooked.

Garlic oil as a fight against histological and oxidative stress abnormalities in Wistar rats after oral inoculation of Anisakis spp. Type II (L3) (Nematoda)

ABSTRACT The consumption of inadequately thermally treated fish is a public health risk due to the possible propagation of Anisakis larvae and their antigenic proteins, the causative agent of the zoonotic disease anisakidosis. The present study demonstrated the physiological and histopathological changes that accompanied an oral inoculation of crude extracts from fresh and thermally treated Anisakis Type II (L3) in Wistar albino rats. Nematode worms were isolated from the marine fish Dicentrarchus labrax. They were examined and taxonomically identified using light and scanning electron microscopy. The study was performed in 6 rat groups: a control group (I), a garlic oil (GO) inoculated group (II), a fresh L3 inoculated group (III), a thermally treated L3 inoculated group (IV), a fresh L3 + GO inoculated group (V), and a thermally treated L3 + GO inoculated group (VI). It was observed that rats inoculated with fresh and thermally treated L3 crude extracts showed abnormal oxidative stress markers associated with the destruction of normal architecture of spleen and thymus. GO produced a protective effect in rat groups inoculated with L3 extracts + GO administration via the amelioration of oxidative stress markers, which was confirmed by the marked normal structure of the organs’ histology. Cooking of L3 infected fish induced severe physiological and histopathological alterations compared to uncooked infected fish. The administration of garlic before and after fish eating is recommended to avoid the dangerous effect of anisakids, even if they are cooked.

Phytochemical Analysis and In Vitro Effects of Allium fistulosum L. and Allium sativum L. Extracts on Human Normal and Tumor Cell Lines: A Comparative Study

Allium sativum L. (garlic bulbs) and Allium fistulosum L. (Welsh onion leaves) showed quantitative differences of identified compounds: allicin and alliin (380 µg/mL and 1410 µg/mL in garlic; 20 µg/mL and 145 µg/mL in Welsh onion), and the phenolic compounds (chlorogenic acid, p-coumaric acid, ferulic acid, gentisic acid, 4-hydroxybenzoic acid, kaempferol, isoquercitrin, quercitrin, quercetin, and rutin). The chemical composition determined the inhibitory activity of Allium extracts in a dose-dependent manner, on human normal cells (BJ-IC50 0.8841% garlic/0.2433% Welsh onion and HaCaT-IC50 1.086% garlic/0.6197% Welsh onion) and tumor cells (DLD-1-IC50 5.482%/2.124%; MDA-MB-231-IC50 6.375%/2.464%; MCF-7-IC50 6.131%/3.353%; and SK-MES-1-IC50 4.651%/5.819%). At high concentrations, the cytotoxic activity of each extract, on normal cells, was confirmed by: the 50% of the growth inhibition concentration (IC50) value, the cell death induced by necrosis, and biochemical determination of LDH, catalase, and Caspase-3. The four tumor cell lines treated with high concentrations (10%, 5%, 2.5%, and 1.25%) of garlic extract showed different sensibility, appreciated on the base of IC50 value for the most sensitive cell line (SK-MES-1), and the less sensitive (MDA-MB-231) cell line. The high concentrations of Welsh onion extract (5%, 2.5%, and 1.25%) induced pH changes in the culture medium and SK-MES-1 being the less sensitive cell line.

Chinese nutraceuticals and physical activity; their role in neurodegenerative tauopathies

The onset of neurodegenerative disease has not only been a major cause of scientific worry, but of economic burden to the health system. This condition has been further attributed to mis-stability, deletion or mutation of tau protein, causing the onset of Corticobasal degeneration, Pick's diseases, Progressive supranuclear palsy, Argyrophilic grains disease, Alzheimer's diseases etc. as scientifically renowned. This is mainly related to dysregulation of translational machinery, upregulation of proinflammatory cytokines and inhibition of several essential cascades such as ERK signaling cascade, GSK3β, CREB, and PKA/PKB (Akt) signaling cascades that enhances protein processing, normal protein folding, cognitive function, and microtubule associated tau stability. Administration of some nutrients and/or bioactive compounds has a high tendency to impede tau mediated inflammation at neuronal level. Furthermore, prevention and neutralization of protein misfolding through modulation of microtubule tau stability and prevention of protein misfolding is by virtue few of the numerous beneficial effects of physical activity. Of utmost important in this study is the exploration of promising bioactivities of nutraceuticals found in china and the ameliorating potential of physical activity on tauopathies, while highlighting animal and in vitro studies that have been investigated for comprehensive understanding of its potential and an insight into the effects on human highly probable to tau mediated neurodegeneration.

Dietary Thiols: A Potential Supporting Strategy against Oxidative Stress in Heart Failure and Muscular Damage during Sports Activity

Moderate exercise combined with proper nutrition are considered protective factors against cardiovascular disease and musculoskeletal disorders. However, physical activity is known not only to have positive effects. In fact, the achievement of a good performance requires a very high oxygen consumption, which leads to the formation of oxygen free radicals, responsible for premature cell aging and diseases such as heart failure and muscle injury. In this scenario, a primary role is played by antioxidants, in particular by natural antioxidants that can be taken through the diet. Natural antioxidants are molecules capable of counteracting oxygen free radicals without causing cellular cytotoxicity. In recent years, therefore, research has conducted numerous studies on the identification of natural micronutrients, in order to prevent or mitigate oxidative stress induced by physical activity by helping to support conventional drug therapies against heart failure and muscle damage. The aim of this review is to have an overview of how controlled physical activity and a diet rich in antioxidants can represent a "natural cure" to prevent imbalances caused by free oxygen radicals in diseases such as heart failure and muscle damage. In particular, we will focus on sulfur-containing compounds that have the ability to protect the body from oxidative stress. We will mainly focus on six natural antioxidants: glutathione, taurine, lipoic acid, sulforaphane, garlic and methylsulfonylmethane.

The Garlic Compound Z-Ajoene, S-Thiolates COX2 and STAT3 and Dampens the Inflammatory Response in RAW264.7 Macrophages

SCOPE

Garlic (Allium sativum) has been used for centuries as a prophylactic and therapeutic medicinal agent to control inflammation-associated pathologies. To investigate the underlying mechanisms, an in vitro inflammatory model is established using RAW264.7 murine macrophages exposed to low-doses of lipopolysaccharide (LPS) in the presence of garlic compounds allicin and Z-ajoene (ZA), mimicking regular garlic consumption.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Both allicin and Z-ajoene dampen both transcript and protein expression of the pro-inflammatory cytokines IL1β, IL6, and IL12β, and upregulate the expression of the anti-inflammatory cytokine IL10. Protein arrays of selected secreted inflammatory mediators confirm that Z-ajoene has a pronounced down-regulatory effect on LPS-induced inflammatory cytokines and chemokines. Many of these proteins are known targets of the transcription factor signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3); and indeed, Z-ajoene or its analogue dansyl-ajoene is found to decrease phosphorylation and nuclear translocation of STAT3, and to covalently modify the protein by S-thiolation at Cys108, Cys367, and Cys687. Z-Ajoene dose-dependently and non-competitively inhibit the activity of cyclooxygenase 2 (COX2), possibly attributed to S-thiolation at Cys9 and Cys299.

CONCLUSION

The characterization of Z-ajoene's activity of targeting and covalently modifying STAT3 and COX2, both important regulators of inflammation, may contribute to the health benefits of regular dietary garlic consumption.

Single garlic oil modulates T cells activation and proinflammatory cytokine in mice with high fat diet

BACKGROUND

Hyperlipidemia triggers atherosclerosis by involving immune cells, such as T-cells. T-cells plays a role in worsening conditions during a high-fat diet (HFD).

OBJECTIVE

The research aimed to analyze the role of single garlic oil (SGO) on T-cells activation and its proinflammatory cytokine expression in HFD mice.

METHODS

Mice were divided into six groups: ND (normal diet); HFD (high-fat diet without treatment); HFD + Simv (HFD + simvastatin 2.6 mg/kg body weight); and HFD + SGO 1-3 (high-fat diet + single garlic oil in a dose of 12.5, 25, and 50 mg/kg body weight), respectively. Treatments were orally given every day for 45 days. At the end of treatments, lymphocytes were isolated from mice spleen. The relative number of T-cells and proinflammatory cytokines were measured using flow-cytometry and analyzed using one-way ANOVA (p < 0.05).

RESULT

Our result indicated that HFD mice had lower naive T cells (CD4+CD62L+) than normal mice (p < 0.05). SGO treatment in HFD mice increased the relative number of naïve T cells. HFD treatment increased the expression of TNF-α and IFN-γ through NF-κB expression. Furthermore, SGO treatment improved the expression of TNF-α and IFN-γ.

CONCLUSION

Our study suggests that SGO could act as a promising prospect for therapy to improve chronic inflammation in a HFD.

Therapeutic potential of sulfur-containing natural products in inflammatory diseases

Owing to the prevalence of chronic inflammation and its related disorders, there is a demand for novel therapeutic agents capable of preventing or suppressing inflammation. Natural products (NPs) are well established as an important resource for drug development and provide an almost infinite array of molecular entities. Sulfur-containing NPs (i.e., NPs containing one or more sulfur atoms) are abundant throughout nature, from bacteria to animals. The aim of this review was to survey the emerging evidence on role of sulfur-containing NPs, such as glutathione, garlic-derived sulfur compounds, Epipolythiodioxopiperazines (EPTs), Isothiocyanates (ITCs), and Ergothioneine (EGT), in the control of inflammation and to determine the possible underlying mechanisms. A discussion of how hydrogen sulfide (H₂S), an endogenous gaseous signaling molecule, links sulfur-containing NPs and their anti-inflammatory action is also performed. This review may help to further the development of sulfur-based compounds by providing a guide for structure-activity relationship-based modification for use in modern medicinal chemistry. However, as this field is still in its infancy, the review is concluded by an overview of the progression of these promising entities as therapeutic agents.

Sulfur-containing Secondary Metabolites as Neuroprotective Agents

Sulfur-containing secondary metabolites are a relatively small group of substances of plant origin. The present review is focused on their neuroprotective properties. The results obtained in a series of in vitro and in vivo studies are reported. Among glucosinolates, the wide class of compounds in the sulfur-containing metabolites, glucoraphanin, sulforaphane and isothiocyanates proved to be the more studied in this context and showed interesting properties as modulators of several systems involved in the pathogenesis of neurologic diseases such as oxidative stress, inflammation and apoptosis. Allium sativum L. (garlic) is widely known for its sulfur-containing components endowed with health-promoting activities and its medicinal properties are known from ancient times. In recent studies, garlic components proved active in neuroprotection due to the direct and indirect antioxidant properties, modulation of apoptosis mediators and inhibiting the formation of amyloid protein. Dihydroasparagusic acid, the first dimercaptanic compound isolated from a natural source, effectively inhibited inflammatory and oxidative processes that are important factors for the etiopathogenesis of neurodegenerative diseases, not only for its antioxidant and radical scavenging properties but also because it may down-regulate the expression of several microglial-derived inflammatory mediators. Serofendic acid represents a rare case of sulfur-containing animal-derived secondary metabolite isolated from fetal calf serum extract. It proved effective in the suppression of ROS generation and in the expression of several inflammatory and apoptosis mediators and showed a cytotrophic property in astrocytes, promoting the stellation process. Lastly, the properties of hydrogen sulfide were also reported since in recent times it has been recognized as a signaling molecule and as a mediator in regulating neuron death or survival. It may be produced endogenously from cysteine but may also be released by sulfur-containing secondary metabolites, mainly from those present in garlic.

S-allylmercaptocysteine inhibits mucin overexpression and inflammation via MAPKs and PI3K-Akt signaling pathways in acute respiratory distress syndrome

Cytokine storm is an important cause of acute respiratory distress syndrome and multiple organ failure. Excessive secretion and accumulation of mucins on the surface of airway cause airway obstruction and exacerbate lung infections. MUC5AC and MUC5B are the main secreted mucins and overexpressed in various inflammatory responses. S-allylmercaptocysteine, a water-soluble organic sulfur compound extracted from garlic, has anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidative effects for various pulmonary diseases. The aim of this work was to investigate the therapeutic effects of SAMC on mucin overproduction and inflammation in 16HBE cells and LPS-induced ARDS mice. Results show that SAMC treatment ameliorated inflammatory cell infiltration and lung histopathological changes in the LPS-induced ARDS mice. SAMC also inhibited the expressions of MUC5AC and MUC5B, decreased the production of pro-inflammatory markers (IL-6, TNF-α, CD86 and IL-12) and increased the production of anti-inflammatory markers (IL-10, CD206 and TGF-β). These results confirm that SAMC had potential beneficial effects on suppressed hyperinflammation and mucin overexpression. Furthermore, SAMC exerted the therapeutic effects through the inhibition of phosphorylation of MAPKs and PI3K-Akt signaling pathways in the 16HBE cells and mice. Overall, our results demonstrate the effects of SAMC on the LPS-induced mucin overproduction and inflammation both in the 16HBE cells and mice.

Organosulfur Compounds: A Review of Their Anti-inflammatory Effects in Human Health

Phytonutrients are widely recognized for providing protective human health benefits. Among the phytonutrients, epidemiological and experimental studies show that dietary organosulfur compounds (OSC) play a significant role in preventing various human pathological progressions, including chronic inflammation, by decreasing inflammatory mediators such as nitric oxide (NO), prostaglandin (PG)E₂, interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-6, tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, and IL-17, which are all typical hallmarks of inflammation. Evidence supports OSC in reducing the expression of these markers, thereby attenuating chronic inflammatory processes. Nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) is a key regulating factor during inflammation, and novel evidence shows that OSC downregulates this transcriptional factor, thus contributing to the anti-inflammatory response. In vitro and in vivo studies show that inflammation is mechanistically linked with acute and chronic pathological conditions including cancer, diabetes, obesity, neural dysfunction, etc. Furthermore, a considerable number of experiments have demonstrated that the anti-inflammatory properties of OSC occur in a dose-dependent manner. These experiments also highlight indirect mechanisms as well as potent co-functions for protective roles as antioxidants, and in providing chemoprotection and neuroprotection. In this brief review, we provided an overview of the anti-inflammatory effects of OSC and elucidated probable mechanisms that are associated with inflammation and chronic disorders.

NF-κB as a Key Mediator of Brain Inflammation in Alzheimer's Disease

Alzheimer's disease is the most common form of dementia. It is characterized by betaamyloid peptide fibrils which are extracellular deposition of a specific protein, accompanied by extensive neuroinflammation. Various studies show the presence of a number of inflammation markers in the AD brain: elevated inflammatory cytokines and chemokines, and an accumulation of activated microglia in the damaged regions. NF-κB is a family of redox sensitive transcriptional factors, and it is known that NF-κB has binding sites in the promoter region of the genes involved in amyloidogenesis and inflammation. Long-term use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs prevents progression of AD and delays its onset, suggesting that there is a close correlation between NF-κB and AD pathogenesis. This study aims to (1) assess the association between NF-κB activity and AD through discussion of a variety of experimental and clinical studies on AD and (2) review treatment strategies designed to treat or prevent AD with NF-κB inhibitors.