Rosmarinus officinalis extract suppresses Propionibacterium acnes-induced inflammatory responses

The role of current synthetic and possible plant and marine phytochemical compounds in the treatment of acne

Acne is a long-standing skin condition characterized by plugged hair follicles due to the accumulation of dead skin cells, sebum, and Propionibacterium acnes (P. acnes) bacteria, causing inflammation, and the formation of pimples or lesions. Acne was recognized in the ancient times by the ancient Egyptians, Greeks, and Romans. Since ancient times, folk medicine from different cultures have comprised herbal and natural products for the treatment of acne. Current acne medications include antibiotics, keratolytics, corticosteroids, in addition to hormonal therapy for women. However, these conventional drugs can cause some serious side effects. And therefore, seeking new safe treatment options from natural sources is essential. Plants can be a potential source of medicinal phytochemicals which can be pharmacologically active as antibacterial, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, keratolytic and sebum-reducing. Organic acids, obtained from natural sources, are commonly used as keratolytics in dermatology and cosmetology. Most of the promising phytochemicals in acne treatment belong to terpenes, terpenoids, flavonoids, alkaloids, phenolic compounds, saponins, tannins, and essential oils. These can be extracted from leaves, bark, roots, rhizomes, seeds, and fruits of plants and may be incorporated in different dosage forms to facilitate their penetration through the skin. Additionally, medicinal compounds from marine sources can also contribute to acne treatment. This review will discuss the pathogenesis, types and consequences of acne, side effects of conventional treatment, current possible treatment options from natural sources obtained from research and folk medicine and possible applied dosage forms.

Rosemary: Unrevealing an old aromatic crop as a new source of promising functional food additive-A review

Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis L.) is one of the most famous spice plants belonging to the Lamiaceae family as a remarkably beautiful horticultural plant and economically agricultural crop. The essential oil of rosemary has been enthusiastically welcome in the whole world for hundreds of years. Now, it is wildly prevailing as a promising functional food additive for human health. More importantly, due to its significant aroma, food, and nutritional value, rosemary also plays an essential role in the food/feed additive and food packaging industries. Modern industrial development and fundamental scientific research have extensively revealed its unique phytochemical constituents with biologically meaningful activities, which closely related to diverse human health functions. In this review, we provide a comprehensively systematic perspective on rosemary by summarizing the structures of various pharmacological and nutritional components, biologically functional activities and their molecular regulatory networks required in food developments, and the recent advances in their applications in the food industry. Finally, the temporary limitations and future research trends regarding the development of rosemary components are also discussed and prospected. Hence, the review covering the fundamental research advances and developing prospects of rosemary is a desirable demand to facilitate their better understanding, and it will also serve as a reference to provide many insights for the future promotion of the research and development of functional foods related to rosemary.

Emerging Insights into the Applicability of Essential Oils in the Management of Acne Vulgaris

The occurrence of pustules, comedones, nodules, and cysts defines acne vulgaris, a prevalent chronic inflammatory dermatological condition. In the past few decades, essential oils extracted from varied natural sources have acquired recognition due to their potential medicinal applications in acne therapy. However, there is not yet sufficient medical data to fully characterize this interaction. Multiple factors contribute to the development of acne vulgaris, including excessive sebaceous production, inflammatory processes, hyperkeratinization, and infection with Cutibacterium acnes. Essential oils, including oregano, lavender, lemon grass, myrtle, lemon, thyme, eucalyptus, rosemary, and tea tree, have been found to possess anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antimicrobial properties, which may target the multifactorial causes of acne. Analytical methods for determining antioxidant potential (i.e., total phenolic content, diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl free radical scavenging assay, reducing power assay, ferrous ion chelating activity, thiobarbituric acid reactive species assay, β-carotene bleaching assay, etc.) are essential for the evaluation of these essential oils, and their method optimization is crucial. Further studies could include the development of novel acne treatments incorporating essential oils and an assessment of their efficacy in large clinical trials. In addition, further research is necessary to ascertain the mechanisms of action of essential oils and their optimal doses and safety profiles for optimal implementation in the management of acne vulgaris.

Anti-Inflammatory Therapeutic Mechanisms of Natural Products: Insight from Rosemary Diterpenes, Carnosic Acid and Carnosol

Carnosic acid (CA) and carnosol (CAR) are two major diterpenes of the rosemary plant (Rosmarinus officinalis). They possess a phenolic structural moiety and are endowed with the power to remove cellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) either through direct scavenging reaction or indirectly through upregulation of antioxidant defences. Hand in hand with these activities are their multiple biological effects and therapeutic potential orchestrated through modulating various signalling pathways of inflammation, including the NF-κB, MAPK, Nrf2, SIRT1, STAT3 and NLRP3 inflammasomes, among others. Consequently, they ameliorate the expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines (e.g., TNF-α, IL-1 and IL-6), adhesion molecules, chemokines and prostaglandins. These anti-inflammatory mechanisms of action as a therapeutic link to various effects of these compounds, as in many other natural products, are scrutinised.

Natural inhibitors for acetylcholinesterase and autophagy modulators as effective antagonists for tau and β-amyloid in Alzheimer's rat model

Background: Phytochemicals have amazing biological effects in relation to age-related illnesses and are increasingly being studied in clinical trials. The goal of this study was to examine the effectiveness of the aqueous extracts of Rosmarinus officinalis L. (Rosemary) and Crocus sativus L. (Saffron) and their combinations as tau and β-amyloid antagonists in an Alzheimer's rat model. Methods: AlCl₃ and D-galactose (150 & 300 mg/kg) were used to create the Alzheimer's neuroinflammation rat model. The animals were subsequently given the two extracts and their combinations (500 mg/kg) along 15 days. The cognitive impairment, oxidative stress, tau & amyloid neuroproteins, acetylcholine, acetylcholinesterase neurotransmitters, proinflammatory cytokines, LC3 as an autophagy marker, computational analysis, and morphological alterations were all assessed. Results: When compared to the conventional donepezil and normal groups, the treated groups showed a significant improvement in all calculated parameters. The cortex and hippocampus have a better morphological appearance. In silico analysis found that these extracts may have an affinity for and impede the activity of some proteins thought to be essential regulators of disease progression. Conclusion: Rosemary and Saffron extracts by the power of their constituents were able to alleviate the neurotoxicity of AlCl₃ & D-galactose and regulate the natural autophagy process.

Carnosic acid inhibits secretion of allergic inflammatory mediators in IgE-activated mast cells via direct regulation of Syk activation

Mast cells are essential regulators of inflammation most recognized for their central role in allergic inflammatory disorders. Signaling via the high-affinity immunoglobulin E (IgE) receptor, FcεRI, leads to rapid degranulation of preformed granules and the sustained release of newly-synthesized pro-inflammatory mediators. Our group recently established rosemary extract (RE) as a potent regulator of mast cell functions, attenuating MAPK and NF-κB signaling. Carnosic acid (CA)-a major polyphenolic constituent of RE-has been shown to exhibit anti-inflammatory effects in other immune cell models, but its role as a potential modulator of mast cell activation is undefined. Therefore, we sought here to determine the modulatory effects of CA in a mast cell model of allergic inflammation. We sensitized bone marrow-derived mast cells (BMMCs) with anti-trinitrophenyl (TNP) IgE and activated with allergen (TNP-BSA) under stem cell factor (SCF) potentiation, in addition to treatment with CA. Our results indicate that CA significantly inhibits allergen-induced early phase responses including Ca²⁺ mobilization, ROS production, and subsequent degranulation. We also show CA treatment reduced late phase responses, including the release of all cytokines and chemokines examined following IgE stimulation, and corresponding gene expression excepting that of CCL2. Importantly, we determined that CA mediates its inhibitory effects through modulation of tyrosine kinase Syk and downstream effectors TAK1 (Ser412) and Akt (Ser473) as well as NF-κB signaling, while phosphorylation of FcεRI (γ chain) and MAPK proteins remained unaltered. These novel findings establish CA as a potent modulator of mast cell activation, warranting further investigation as a putative anti-allergy therapeutic.

Natural products in cosmetics

The global cosmetics market reached US$500 billion in 2017 and is expected to exceed US$800 billion by 2023, at around a 7% annual growth rate. The cosmetics industry is emerging as one of the fastest-growing industries of the past decade. Data shows that the Chinese cosmetics market was US$60 billion in 2021. It is expected to be the world's number one consumer cosmetics market by 2050, with a size of approximately US$450 billion. The influence of social media and the internet has raised awareness of the risks associated with the usage of many chemicals in cosmetics and the health benefits of natural products derived from plants and other natural resources. As a result, the cosmetic industry is now paying more attention to natural products. The present review focus on the possible applications of natural products from various biological sources in skin care cosmetics, including topical care products, fragrances, moisturizers, UV protective, and anti-wrinkle products. In addition, the mechanisms of targets for evaluation of active ingredients in cosmetics and the possible benefits of these bioactive compounds in rejuvenation and health, and their potential role in cosmetics are also discussed.

Prophylactic administration of rosmarinic acid ameliorates depression-associated cardiac abnormalities in Wistar rats: Evidence of serotonergic, oxidative, and inflammatory pathways

Psychiatric disorders and associated cardiac comorbidities have increased the risk of mortality worldwide. Researchers reported that depression increases the possibility of future cardiac abnormalities by approximately 30%. Therefore, there is an unmet need to develop therapeutic interventions to treat depression and associated cardiac abnormalities. The present study was conducted to evaluate the prophylactic effect of rosmarinic acid (RA) against chronic unpredictable stress (CUS)-induced depression associated cardiac abnormalities in Wistar rats. The CUS paradigm, which comprised several stressors, was employed for 40 days to induce depressive-like behavior and associated cardiac abnormalities in rats. Along with CUS, RA at a dose of 25 and 50 mg/kg was administered orally to two groups of animals for 40 days. Behavioral tests (forced swim test and sucrose consumption test) and molecular biomarkers (corticosterone and serotonin) were performed. Electrocardiography was performed before CUS (Day 0), Day 20, and Day 40 to study electrocardiogram parameters. Furthermore, changes in body weight, organ weight, tissue lipid peroxidation, glutathione, catalase, cTn-I, MMP-2, and proinflammatory cytokines (TNF-α and IL-6) were estimated. Our results showed that RA treatment caused a reduction in immobility period, adrenal hyperplasia, corticosterone level, tissue lipid peroxidation, cTn-I, MMP-2, proinflammatory cytokines, and QRS complex duration, while an increase in sucrose consumption, brain serotonin level, T-wave width, glutathione, and catalase activity as compared with the CUS-control group. The results of our study proved that RA administration ameliorates CUS-induced depression-associated cardiac abnormalities in rats via serotonergic, oxidative, and inflammatory pathways.

Antioxidant–Anti-Inflammatory Evaluation of a Polyherbal Formula

Most disease—both acute and chronic—results from inflammation, and reactive oxygen species (ROS) are considered some of the strongest stimuli of inflammation. Many studies reported the traditional use of herbal species for treating inflammation, especially when ROS are involved. The present study aims to demonstrate the antioxidant–anti-inflammatory effects of a patented preparation based on Populus nigra and Rosmarinus officinalis extracts and to highlight its applicative potential; the formula was characterized by HPTLC and HPLC and in-vitro studies were conducted on TNF-α-stimulated HUVECs. The antioxidant activity of the formula was determined by DPPH assay and the phosphomolybdenum method; to assess in-vivo anti-inflammatory activity, a rat paw edema model was used; the formula contains high amounts of polyphenols. It exhibited scavenging activity of 50–85% at 1–10 mg/mL, it inhibited nitrite production and ICAM-1 expression in TNF-α-stimulated endothelial cell cultures dose-dependently, at a maximum of 58.7% at the maximum dose administered and exerted an obvious anti-inflammatory effect in vivo, settling early and decreasing at 180 min; a new herbal bioactive product was presented with promising therapeutic potential that can be an adjunct to conventional therapies for diseases based on oxidative stress and inflammation.

Potential Anti-Inflammatory Effect of Rosmarinus officinalis in Preclinical In Vivo Models of Inflammation

This systematic review aimed to evaluate the potential anti-inflammatory effect of Rosmarinus officinalis in preclinical in vivo models of inflammation. A search was conducted in the databases PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science, with related keywords. The inclusion criteria were inflammation, plant, and studies on rats or mice; while, the exclusion criteria were reviews, studies with in vitro models, and associated plants. The predominant animal models were paw edema, acute liver injury, and asthma. Rosemary was more commonly used in its entirety than in compounds, and the prevalent methods of extraction were maceration and hydrodistillation. The most common routes of administration reported were gavage, intraperitoneal, and oral, on a route-dependent dosage. Treatment took place daily, or was single-dose, on average for 21 days, and it more often started before the induction. The most evaluated biomarkers were tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-6, IL-10, myeloperoxidase (MPO), catalase (CAT), glutathione (GSH), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), malondialdehyde (MDA), and superoxide dismutase (SOD). The best results emerged at a dose of 60 mg/kg, via IP of carnosic acid, a dose of 400 mg/kg via gavage of Rosmarinus officinalis, and a dose of 10 mg/kg via IP of rosmarinic acid. Rosmarinus officinalis L. showed anti-inflammatory activity before and after induction of treatments.

Inhibitory Effect of Quercetin on Propionibacterium acnes-induced Skin Inflammation

Quercetin is a well-known antioxidant and a plant polyphenolic of flavonoid group found in many fruits, leaves, and vegetables. Propionibacterium acnes is a key skin pathogen involved in the progression of acne inflammation. Although quercetin has been applied to treat various inflammatory diseases, the effects of quercetin on P. acnes-induced skin inflammation have not been explored. This study investigated the effects of quercetin on P. acnes-induced inflammatory skin disease in vitro and in vivo. The results showed that quercetin suppressed the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines in P. acnes-stimulated HaCaT, THP-1 and RAW 264.7 cells. Additionally, quercetin reduced the production of TLR-2 and the phosphorylation of p38, ERK and JNK MAPKs in P. acnes-stimulated HaCaT and THP-1 cells. It also suppressed MMP-9 mRNA levels in two cell lines exposed to P. acnes in vitro. In the case of in vivo, P. acnes was intradermally injected into the ears of mice and it resulted in cutaneous erythema, swelling, and a granulomatous response. Treatment with quercetin markedly reduced ear thickness and swelling. These results suggested that quercetin can be a potential therapeutic agent against P. acnes-induced skin inflammation and may have diverse pharmaceutical and cosmetics applications.

Plant Extracts as a Natural Source of Bioactive Compounds and Potential Remedy for the Treatment of Certain Skin Diseases

Skin ailments present a major health burden in both developed and undeveloped countries. Maintaining healthy skin is important for a healthy body. Medicinal plants have long provided reliable therapy in the treatment of skin diseases in humans through a diverse range of bioactive molecules. Skin diseases may have a various basis, or may be genetically determined; together, they constitute approximately 34% of all occupational diseases encountered in people of all ages. Of these, melanoma is one of the most dangerous forms, with very poor prognosis for patients if it is diagnosed too late. This review of the literature over the past five years examines the role and utilities of plant extracts in treating various skin diseases such as atopic dermatitis, acne or melanoma with various potential mechanisms of action.

Phenolic Acids of Plant Origin-A Review on Their Antioxidant Activity In Vitro (O/W Emulsion Systems) Along with Their in Vivo Health Biochemical Properties

Nature has generously offered a wide range of herbs (e.g., thyme, oregano, rosemary, sage, mint, basil) rich in many polyphenols and other phenolic compounds with strong antioxidant and biochemical properties. This paper focuses on several natural occurring phenolic acids (caffeic, carnosic, ferulic, gallic, p-coumaric, rosmarinic, vanillic) and first gives an overview of their most common natural plant sources. A summary of the recently reported antioxidant activities of the phenolic acids in o/w emulsions is also provided as an in vitro lipid-based model system. Exploring the interfacial activity of phenolic acids could help to further elucidate their potential health properties against oxidative stress conditions of biological membranes (such as lipoproteins). Finally, this review reports on the latest literature evidence concerning specific biochemical properties of the examined phenolic acids.

Rosa davurica Pall. Improves Propionibacterium acnes-Induced Inflammatory Responses in Mouse Ear Edema Model and Suppresses Pro-Inflammatory Chemokine Production via MAPK and NF-κB Pathways in HaCaT Cells

Acne, also known as acne vulgaris, is a common disorder of human skin involving the sebaceous gland and Propionibacterium acnes (P. acnes). Although there are a number of treatments suggested for acne, many of them have limitations in their safety and have efficacy issues. Therefore, there is a high demand to develop safe and effective novel acne treatments. In the present study, we demonstrate the protective effects of Rosa davurica Pall. leaves (RDL) extract against P. acnes-induced inflammatory responses in vitro and in vivo. The results showed that RDL dose-dependently inhibited the growth of skin bacteria, including P. acnes (KCTC3314) and aerobic Staphylococcus aureus (KCTC1621) or Staphylococcus epidermidis (KCTC1917). The downregulation of proinflammatory cytokines by RDL appears to be mediated by blocking the phosphorylations of mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) and subsequent nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) pathways in P. acnes-stimulated HaCaT cells. In a mouse model of acne vulgaris, histopathological changes were examined in the P. acnes-induced mouse ear edema. The concomitant intradermal injection of RDL resulted in the reduction of ear swelling in mice along with microabscess but exerted no cytotoxic effects for skin cells. Instrumental analysis demonstrated there were seven major components in the RDL extract, and they seemed to have important roles in the anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial effects of RDL. Conclusively, our present work showed for the first time that RDL has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial effects against P. acnes, suggesting RDL as a promising novel strategy for the treatment of acne, including natural additives in anti-acne cosmetics or pharmaceutical products.

Models for acne: A comprehensive study

Acne vulgaris (AV) is the familiar chronic skin ailment affecting most of the individuals. This multifarious, disease involves the bacterium gram-positive, anaerobic Propionibacterium acnes (P. acnes) which resides on skin microflora, and participated in acne inflammation and acne lesions. The object of this review is to discuss presently available in vitro, ex vivo, and in vivo models to evaluate the cosmetic formulations that are developed for dealing and prevention of acne formation. These various available models offer new chances for further research on biologically active materials, drugs & pharmaceutical as well as cosmetics for acne treatment.

Topical application of phenolic compounds suppresses Propionibacterium acnes-induced inflammatory responses in mice with ear edema

Acne vulgaris (AV), a severe chronic inflammatory dermatosis, commonly treated with systemic or topical antibiotics that exacerbate bacterial resistance and pose adverse side effects, new approaches for suppressing or reducing Propionibacterium acnes-induced inflammatory responses and thereby treating AV remain necessary. In response, the goal of our study was to investigate the therapeutic potential of phenolic compounds in the in vivo inflammatory process induced by P. acnes. Mice were intradermally challenged with a suspension containing 1.0 × 10⁷ CFU/mL of P. acnes per ear, after which groups of mice were variously treated with 20 μg of resveratrol, quercetin, gallic acid, or benzoyl peroxide. Mice ears were measured (mm) before each inducement and treatment. At the end of the experiment, activity catalase and superoxide dismutase, levels of myeloperoxidase (MPO), interleukin-1 beta (IL-1β), tumor necrosis factor alpha, thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS), and glutathione were evaluated. Mice treated with resveratrol, quercetin, or gallic acid produced a 40%, 40%, and 30% reduction of the edema, respectively, while mice treated with resveratrol or gallic acid produced a 50 and 45% reduction in IL-1β, also respectively, and a 35% reduction in MPO. Compared to mice in the control group (210 ± 21 μmol/mg protein) and ones treated with benzoyl peroxide (339.7 ± 21.3 μmol/mg protein), mice treated with resveratrol, quercetin, or gallic acid showed low levels of TBARS (71 ± 12 μmol/mg, 62 ± 10 μmol/mg, and 104 ± 15 μmol/mg protein, respectively). Such results suggest that phenolic compounds are a good alternative for the development of cosmetics that can be used to treat AV. Graphical abstract ᅟ.

Propionibacterium acnes related anti-inflammation and skin hydration activities of madecassoside, a pentacyclic triterpene saponin from Centella asiatica

Madecassoside is a major pentacyclic triterpene saponin from Centella asiatica with multiple pharmaceutical activities. In this study, we focused on its Propionibacterium acnes related anti-inflammation and skin hydration activities, both of which play important roles in skin homeostasis and barrier function. Madecassoside significantly inhibited the pro-inflammatory cytokine IL-1β, TLR2 and nuclear translocation of NF-κB in P. acnes stimulated THP-1 human monocytic cells. In addition, madecasssoside exhibited significant effects on enhancement of skin hydration through increasing the key moisturizing contributors of aquaporin-3, loricrin and involucrin in HaCaT keratinocytes as well as hyaluronan (HA) secretion in human dermal fibroblasts. The upregulation of HA synthases (HAS1, HAS2, HAS3) and inhibition to ROS formation accounted for the increment of HA content. Together, the in vitro study implied the potential medical and cosmetic application of madecassoside in skin protection.

Ethanolic Extract of Origanum vulgare Suppresses Propionibacterium acnes-Induced Inflammatory Responses in Human Monocyte and Mouse Ear Edema Models

Acne vulgaris (acne) is a common inflammatory skin disorder, and Propionibacterium acnes plays a major role in the development and progression of acne inflammation. Herbs possessing antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory activity have been applied as a medical option for centuries. In this study, we examined the suppressive effect of ethanolic oregano (Origanum vulgare) extract on live P. acnes-induced in vivo and in vitro inflammation. Following ethanol extraction of oregano leaves, four compounds with strong antioxidant activity, including rosmarinic acid, quercetin, apigenin, and carvacrol, were identified by high-performance liquid chromatography. Using the mouse ear edema model, we demonstrated that ethanol oregano extracts (EOE) significantly suppressed P. acnes-induced skin inflammation, as measured by ear thickness (32%) and biopsy weight (37%). In a separate study, using the co-culture of P. acnes and human THP-1 monocytes, EOE reduced the production of interleukin (IL)-8, IL-1β and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α up to 40%, 37%, and 18%, respectively, as well as the expression of these three pro-inflammatory mediators at the transcriptional level. Furthermore, EOE inhibited the translocation of nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) into the nucleus possibly by inactivating toll-like receptor-2 (TLR2). The suppressive effect of EOE on live P. acnes-induced inflammatory responses could be due, in part, to the anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, but not the anti-microbial effect of EOE.

Aromatherapy, botanicals, and essential oils in acne

Complementary and alternative medicine approaches are popular among some patient segments due to the perception that they are "natural" and thus are believed to be less likely to be dangerous, to be less toxic, or to cause fewer side effects. In dermatology, these can include aromatherapy, botanicals, and essential oils (plant extracts). Preliminary evidence, biological activity studies, and small pilot clinical trials conducted outside of North America, mostly in young adults, suggest that some may have value in acne treatment. When additional research and larger clinical trials are conducted, both clinicians and patients will be able to understand the risks and benefits compared with allopathic remedies.

Carnosic acid inhibits inflammation response and joint destruction on osteoclasts, fibroblast-like synoviocytes, and collagen-induced arthritis rats

The discovery of new therapeutic drugs with the ability of preventing inflammation and joint destruction with less adverse effects is urgently needed for rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Carnosic acid (CA), a major phenolic compound isolated from the leaves of Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis L.), has been reported to have antioxidative and antimicrobial properties. However, its effects on RA have not been elucidated. Here, we investigated the effects of CA on osteoclasts and fibroblast-like synoviocytes in vitro and on collagen-induced arthritis (CIA) in Wistar rats in vivo. Our in vitro and in vivo studies showed that CA suppressed the expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines including TNFɑ, IL-1β, IL-6, IL-8, IL-17 and MMP-3, and downregulated the production of RANKL. More importantly, we observed that CA inhibited osteoclastogenesis and bone resorption in vitro and exerted therapeutic protection against joint destruction in vivo. Further biochemical analysis demonstrated that CA suppressed RANKL-induced activations of NF-κB and MAPKs (JNK and p38) leading to the downregulation of NFATc1. Taken together, our findings provide the convincing evidence that rosemary derived CA is a promising natural compound for the treatment of RA.

Rosmarinic acid: modes of action, medicinal values and health benefits

The supplementation of livestock rations with herbs containing bioactive components, such as rosmarinic acid (RA), have shown promising results as a natural feed additive in promoting growth, productive and reproductive performance, feed utilization, fertility, anti-oxidant status and immunologic indices. Furthermore, RA reportedly reduces the risks of various animal diseases and mitigates side effects of chemical and synthetic drugs. RA is a natural polyphenol present in several Lamiaceae herbs like Perilla frutescens, and RA is becoming an integral component of animal nutrition as it counters the effect of reactive oxygen species induced in the body as a consequence of different kinds of stressors. Studies have further ascertained the capability of RA to work as an anti-microbial, immunomodulatory, anti-diabetic, anti-allergic, anti-inflammatory, hepato- and renal-protectant agent, as well as to have beneficial effects during skin afflictions. Additionally, RA is favored in meat industries due to enhancing the quality of meat products by reportedly improving shelf-life and imparting desirable flavor. This review describes the beneficial applications and recent findings with RA, including its natural sources, modes of action and various useful applications in safeguarding livestock health as well as important aspects of human health.

A tyrosine aminotransferase involved in rosmarinic acid biosynthesis in Prunella vulgaris L

Rosmarinic acid (RA) and its derivants are medicinal compounds that comprise the active components of several therapeutics. We isolated and characterised a tyrosine aminotransferase of Prunella vulgaris (PvTAT). Deduced PvTAT was markedly homologous to other known/putative plant TATs. Cytoplasmic localisation of PvTAT was observed in tobacco protoplasts. Recombinantly expressed and purified PvTAT had substrates preference for L-tyrosine and phenylpyruvate, with apparent K m of 0.40 and 0.48 mM, and favoured the conversion of tyrosine to 4-hydroxyphenylpyruvate. In vivo activity was confirmed by functional restoration of the Escherichia coli tyrosine auxotrophic mutant DL39. Agrobacterium rhizogenes-mediated antisense/sense expression of PvTAT in hairy roots was used to evaluate the contribution of PvTAT to RA synthesis. PvTAT were reduced by 46-95% and RA were decreased by 36-91% with low catalytic activity in antisense transgenic hairy root lines; furthermore, PvTAT were increased 0.77-2.6-fold with increased 1.3-1.8-fold RA and strong catalytic activity in sense transgenic hairy root lines compared with wild-type counterparts. The comprehensive physiological and catalytic evidence fills in the gap in RA-producing plants which didn't provide evidence for TAT expression and catalytic activities in vitro and in vivo. That also highlights RA biosynthesis pathway in P. vulgaris and provides useful information to engineer natural products.

Evaluation of the intestinal permeability of rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis L.) extract polyphenols and terpenoids in Caco-2 cell monolayers

Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis) is grown throughout the world and is widely used as a medicinal herb and to season and preserve food. Rosemary polyphenols and terpenoids have attracted great interest due to their potential health benefits. However, complete information regarding their absorption and bioavailability in Caco-2 cell model is scarce. The permeation properties of the bioactive compounds (flavonoids, diterpenes, triterpenes and phenylpropanoids) of a rosemary extract (RE), obtained by supercritical fluid extraction, was studied in Caco-2 cell monolayer model, both in a free form or liposomed. Compounds were identified and quantitated by liquid chromatography coupled to quadrupole time-of-flight with electrospray ionization mass spectrometry analysis (HPLC-ESI-QTOF-MS), and the apparent permeability values (P_app) were determined, for the first time in the extract, for 24 compounds in both directions across cell monolayer. For some compounds, such as triterpenoids and some flavonoids, P_app values found were reported for the first time in Caco-2 cells.Our results indicate that most compounds are scarcely absorbed, and passive diffusion is suggested to be the primary mechanism of absorption. The use of liposomes to vehiculize the extract resulted in reduced permeability for most compounds. Finally, the biopharmaceutical classification (BCS) of all the compounds was achieved according to their permeability and solubility data for bioequivalence purposes. BCS study reveal that most of the RE compounds could be classified as classes III and IV (low permeability); therefore, RE itself should also be classified into this category.

Anti-Acne Activity of Italian Medicinal Plants Used for Skin Infection

Propionibacterium acnes is implicated in the pathogenesis of acne vulgaris, which impacts >85% of teenagers. Novel therapies are in high demand and an ethnopharmacological approach to discovering new plant sources of anti-acne therapeutics could contribute to filling this void in effective therapies. The aims of our study were two-fold: (1) To determine if species identified in ethnopharmacological field studies as having traditional uses for skin and soft tissue infection (SSTI) exhibit significantly more activity against P. acnes than species with no such reported use; and (2) Chemically characterize active extracts and assess their suitability for future investigation. Extracts of Italian medicinal (for acne and other skin infection) and randomly collected plants and fungi were screened for growth-inhibitory and anti-biofilm activity in P. acnes using broth microdilution methods. Bioactive extracts were chemically characterized by HPLC and examined for cytotoxicity against human keratinocytes (HaCaTs). Following evaluation of 157 extracts from 10 fungi and 58 plants, we identified crude extracts from seven species exhibiting growth inhibitory activity (MICs 64–256 μg mL⁻¹). All active extracts were examined for cytotoxicity against HaCaTs; extracts from one fungal and one plant species were toxic (IC₅₀ 256 μg mL⁻¹). HPLC analysis with chemical standards revealed many of these extracts contained chlorogenic acid, p-coumaric acid, ellagic acid, gallic acid, and tannic acid. In conclusion, species used in traditional medicine for the skin exhibited significantly greater (p < 0.05) growth inhibitory and biofilm eradication activity than random species, supporting the validity of an ethnobotanical approach to identifying new therapeutics. The anti-acne activity of three extracts is reported for the first time: Vitis vinifera leaves, Asphodelus microcarpus leaves, and Vicia sativa aerial parts.

Histological and histochemical study of the protective role of rosemary extract against harmful effect of cell phone electromagnetic radiation on the parotid glands

Electromagnetic fields (EMFs) are a class of non-ionizing radiation (NIR) that is emitted from mobile phone. It may have hazardous effects on parotid glands. So, we aimed to investigate the histological and histochemical changes of the parotid glands of rats exposed to mobile phone and study the possible protective role of rosemary against its harmful effect. Forty adult male albino rats were used in this study. They were classified into 4 equal groups. Group I (control), group II (control receiving rosemary), group III (mobile phone exposed group) and group IV (mobile exposed, rosemary treated group). Parotid glands were dissected out for histological and histochemical study. Moreover, measurement of oxidative stress markers; malondialdehyde (MDA) and total antioxidant capacity (TAC) was done. The results of this study revealed that rosemary has protective effect through improving the histological and histochemical picture of the parotid gland in addition of its antioxidant effect. It could be concluded from the current study, that exposure of parotid gland of rat models to electromagnetic radiation of mobile phone resulted in structural changes at the level of light and electron microscopic examination which could be explained by oxidative stress effect of mobile phone. Rosemary could play a protective role against this harmful effect through its antioxidant activity.

Combination of new multifunctional molecules for erythematotelangiectatic rosacea disorder

Background

Rosacea, a common chronic skin disorder, is currently managed by patient education, pharmacological drugs, medical devices (laser and light therapies), and use of proper skin cares. Unfortunately, none of these actual treatments used alone or in combination is curative, and so we proposed a dermocosmetic active ingredient to mitigate some aspects of the rosacea and particularly for erythematotelangiectatic rosacea.

Methods

Dermocosmetic active ingredient is composed of three glucosylated derivatives of natural plants hydroxybenzoic acid and hydroxycinnamic acids (rosmarinic acid, gallic acid, and caffeic acid). Anti-inflammatory, anti-angiogenesis, and anti-degranulation studies were done on cellular models (keratinocytes, mast cells, and endothelial cells). Efficiency of the active ingredient in comparison to placebo was assessed clinically on human volunteers having erythematotelangiectatic rosacea. The active and placebo were applied topically twice a day for 28 days. Biometrical analyses were done using a siascope tool.

Results

We found that the active ingredient decreases inflammation (inhibition of interleukin-8 and tumor necrosis factor release), decreases degranulation of mast cells (inhibition of histamine release), and controls angiogenesis mechanism (inhibition of the production of vascular endothelial growth factor and neovessel formation) on cellular models. Study on human volunteers confirmed macroscopically the efficiency of this active ingredient, as we observed no neovessel formation and less visible vessels.

Conclusion

Although rosacea is a skin condition disorder that is difficult to heal, the studies have shown that this active ingredient could be a dermocosmetic support, especially for erythematotelangiectatic rosacea armamentarium. The active ingredient was topically applied on the face for 28 days and improved erythematotelangiectatic rosacea symptoms either by decreasing them (vessels are less visible) or by limiting their development (any neovessels). The active ingredient decreases inflammation (inhibition of interleukin-8 and tumor necrosis factor release), decreases degranulation of mast cells (inhibition of histamine release), and limits the angiogenesis process (inhibition of vascular endothelial growth factor production and neovessel formation).

Antimicrobial photodynamic therapy using chlorin e6 with halogen light for acne bacteria-induced inflammation

AIMS

The present study was designed to evaluate the therapeutic potential of antimicrobial photodynamic therapy (PDT) using chlorin e6 with halogen light against acne bacteria-induced inflammation.

MAIN METHODS

Highly purified chlorin e6 (Ce6), as a second generation photosensitizer, was synthesized from Spirulina chlorophyll. To evaluate the antimicrobial property of Ce6-mediated PDT with halogen light, the broth microdilution method and two-color fluorescence assay were used. The free radicals generated upon irradiating Ce6 with halogen light were measured using 2,7-dichlorofluorescin diacetate. Propionibacterium acnes was intradermally injected into the left ear of the ICR mice, and the anti-inflammatory effect of Ce6-mediated PDT with halogen light was measured by the histological examination. The expressions of cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2), inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) as well as pro-inflammatory cytokines were also measured by Western blotting.

KEY FINDINGS

Chlorin e6-mediated PDT with halogen light (30,000 lx) inactivated various skin bacteria, including P. acnes in a dose-dependent manner. The MIC99 value against P. acnes (KCTC3314) of Ce6 with light was >0.49 μg/ml, whereas the MIC99 for Ce6 alone was >31.25 μg/ml. Ce6-mediated PDT suppressed the expression of P. acnes-induced pro-inflammatory cytokines and iNOS, but not COX-2 in a mouse model.

SIGNIFICANCE

This study showed a remarkable therapeutic effect of chlorin e6-mediated PDT with halogen light against P. acnes-induced inflammation. Our results suggest for the first time the potential of Ce6-mediated PDT with halogen light as a more effective and safer alternative treatment to antibiotic therapy against pathogenic infections of the skin.

Carnosic acid inhibits TLR4-MyD88 signaling pathway in LPS-stimulated 3T3-L1 adipocytes

BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES

Carnosic acid (CA), found in rosemary (Rosemarinus officinalis) leaves, is known to exhibit anti-obesity and anti-inflammatory activities. However, whether its anti-inflammatory potency can contribute to the amelioration of obesity has not been elucidated. The aim of the current study was to investigate the effect of CA on Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) pathways in the presence of lipopolysaccharide (LPS) in 3T3-L1 adipocytes.

MATERIALS/METHODS

3T3-L1 adipocytes were treated with CA (0-20 µM) for 1 h, followed by treatment with LPS for 30 min; mRNA expression of adipokines and protein expression of TLR4-related molecules were then measured.

RESULTS

LPS-stimulated 3T3-L1 adipocytes showed elevated mRNA expression of tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, interleukin-6, and monocyte chemoattractant protein-1, and CA significantly inhibited the expression of these adipokine genes. LPS-induced up regulation of TLR4, myeloid differentiation factor 88, TNF receptor-associated factor 6, and nuclear factor-κB, as well as phosphorylated extracellular receptor-activated kinase were also suppressed by pre-treatment of 3T3-L1 adipocytes with CA.

CONCLUSIONS

Results of this study suggest that CA directly inhibits TLR4-MyD88-dependent signaling pathways and decreases the inflammatory response in adipocytes.