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Seifi S, Nazari SE, Avan A, Khalili-tanha N, Babaei F, Soleimanpour S, Asgharzadeh F, Hajzadeh MAR, Khazaei M, Marjani A. The therapeutic potential of Wild Bitter Melon to ameliorate muscle atrophy in a murine model. AVICENNA JOURNAL OF PHYTOMEDICINE 2024; 14:388-401. [PMID: 39086863 PMCID: PMC11287028 DOI: 10.22038/ajp.2024.24011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2023] [Accepted: 12/30/2023] [Indexed: 08/02/2024]
Abstract
Objective Muscle atrophy due to immobility is a common complication of many diseases and a consequence of therapeutic processes. Immobility and inactivity have been shown to be associated with increased inflammation. The aim of this study was to investigate the therapeutic potential of Wild Bitter Melon (WBM) (Momordica charantia Linn) on muscle atrophy due to immobility in a mouse model. Materials and Methods This study was performed in two phases of atrophy and recovery on male BALB/c mice which were divided into 3 groups: control, immobilized, and experimental. The treatment period with WBM at a dose of 400 mg/kg daily by gavage was 17 days, including 7 days of being immobilized and 10 days of recovery. At the end of each phase, half of the mice from each group were examined regarding the four limb grip strength, and then histological and biochemical analyses were done. Results The tissue level of malondialdehyde (MDA) oxidative stress index in the atrophy phase in the atrophy group (5.4567±0.522) nmol/g compared to the control group (3.455±0.065) nmol significantly (p 0.001) <) increased. Also, the tissue level of MDA in the WBM group (3.87±0.035) showed a significant decrease compared to the atrophy group (p<0.01). The strength percentage of four limbs in the mice of the treatment group (-23.46±2.45) was significantly higher than that of the atrophy group (-30.60±3.15) at the end of the atrophy phase. Conclusion The results suggest that the use of WBM reduces the degree of inflammation, oxidative stress and muscle damage, as well as muscle atrophy, which may improve the muscle atrophy in mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sima Seifi
- Metabolic Disorders Research Center, Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Golestan University of Medical Sciences Gorgan, Golestan, Iran
- Metabolic syndrome Research center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
- Equal first author
| | - Seyedeh Elnaz Nazari
- Metabolic syndrome Research center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
- Department of Medical Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
- Equal first author
| | - Amir Avan
- Metabolic syndrome Research center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
- Basic Sciences Research Institute, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
- Medical Genetics Research center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
- Equal first author
| | - Nima Khalili-tanha
- Metabolic syndrome Research center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Fatemeh Babaei
- Metabolic syndrome Research center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Saman Soleimanpour
- Metabolic syndrome Research center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Fereshteh Asgharzadeh
- Metabolic syndrome Research center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Mousa-al-reza Hajzadeh
- Department of Medical Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Majid Khazaei
- Metabolic syndrome Research center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
- Department of Medical Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
- Basic Sciences Research Institute, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Abdoljalal Marjani
- Metabolic Disorders Research Center, Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Golestan University of Medical Sciences Gorgan, Golestan, Iran
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Ozel AB, Cilingir-Kaya OT, Sener G, Ozbeyli D, Sen A, Sacan O, Yanardag R, Yarat A. Investigation of possible neuroprotective effects of some plant extracts on brain in bile duct ligated rats. J Food Biochem 2021; 45:e13835. [PMID: 34173678 DOI: 10.1111/jfbc.13835] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2021] [Revised: 04/29/2021] [Accepted: 06/09/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
This study aimed to investigate the possible neuroprotective effects of bitter melon (BM), chard, and parsley extracts on oxidative damage that may occur in the brain of rats with bile duct ligation (BDL)-induced biliary cirrhosis. It was observed that lipid peroxidation (LPO), sialic acid (SA), and nitric oxide (NO) levels increased; glutathione (GSH) levels, catalase (CAT) activity, and tissue factor (TF) activity decreased significantly in the BDL group. However, in groups with BDL given BM, chard, and parsley extracts LPO, SA, NO levels decreased; GSH levels and CAT activities increased significantly. No significant differences were observed between groups in total protein, glutathione-S-transferase, superoxide dismutase, and boron. Histological findings were supported by the biochemical results. BM, chard, and parsley extracts were effective in the regression of oxidant damage caused by cirrhosis in the brain tissues. PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS: Bitter melon (BM), chard, and parsley have antioxidant properties due to their bioactive compounds which are involved in scavenging free radicals, suppressing their production, and stimulating the production of endogenous antioxidant compounds. Since BM, chard, and parsley extracts were found to be effective in the regression of oxidant damage caused by cirrhosis in the brain tissues, these plant extracts may be an alternative in the development of different treatment approaches against brain damage in cirrhosis. At the same time, these species have been used as food by the people for many years. Therefore, they can be used safely as neuroprotective agents in treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Armagan Begum Ozel
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Biochemistry, Marmara University, Faculty of Dentistry, Istanbul, Turkey
| | | | - Goksel Sener
- Vocational School of Health Service, Fenerbahçe University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Dilek Ozbeyli
- Pathology Laboratory Techniques, Vocational School of Health Service, Marmara University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Ali Sen
- Department of Pharmacognosy, Marmara University, Faculty of Pharmacy, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Ozlem Sacan
- Department of Chemistry, Istanbul University-Cerrahpasa, Faculty of Engineering, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Refiye Yanardag
- Department of Chemistry, Istanbul University-Cerrahpasa, Faculty of Engineering, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Aysen Yarat
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Biochemistry, Marmara University, Faculty of Dentistry, Istanbul, Turkey
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Salehi B, Quispe C, Sharifi-Rad J, Giri L, Suyal R, Jugran AK, Zucca P, Rescigno A, Peddio S, Bobiş O, Moise AR, Leyva-Gómez G, Del Prado-Audelo ML, Cortes H, Iriti M, Martorell M, Cruz-Martins N, Kumar M, Zam W. Antioxidant potential of family Cucurbitaceae with special emphasis on Cucurbita genus: A key to alleviate oxidative stress-mediated disorders. Phytother Res 2021; 35:3533-3557. [PMID: 33590924 DOI: 10.1002/ptr.7045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2020] [Revised: 12/28/2020] [Accepted: 01/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Oxidative stress is the imbalance between reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, and accumulation and the ability of a biological system to clear these reactive products. This imbalance leads to cell and tissue damage causing several disorders in human body, such as neurodegeneration, metabolic problems, cardiovascular diseases, and cancer. Cucurbitaceae family consists of about 100 genera and 1,000 species of plants including mostly tropical, annual or perennial, monoecious, and dioecious herbs. The plants from Cucurbita species are rich sources of phytochemicals and act as a rich source of antioxidants. The most important phytochemicals present in the cucurbits are cucurbitacins, saponins, carotenoids, phytosterols, and polyphenols. These bioactive phyto-constituents are responsible for the pharmacological effects including antioxidant, antitumor, antidiabetic, hepatoprotective, antimicrobial, anti-obesity, diuretic, anti-ulcer activity, and antigenotoxic. A wide number of in vitro and in vivo studies have ascribed these health-promoting effects of Cucurbita genus. Results of clinical trials suggest that Cucurbita provides health benefits for diabetic patients, patients with benign prostate hyperplasia, infertile women, postmenopausal women, and stress urinary incontinence in women. The intend of the present review is to focus on the protective role of Cucurbita spp. phytochemicals on oxidative stress-related disorders on the basis of preclinical and human studies. The review will also give insights on the in vitro and in vivo antioxidant potential of the Cucurbitaceae family as a whole.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bahare Salehi
- Medical Ethics and Law Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Cristina Quispe
- Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad Arturo Prat, Iquique, Chile
| | - Javad Sharifi-Rad
- Phytochemistry Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.,Facultad de Medicina, Universidad del Azuay, Cuenca, Ecuador
| | - Lalit Giri
- G.B. Pant National Institute of Himalayan Environment & Sustainable Development, Almora, Uttarakhand, India
| | - Renu Suyal
- G.B. Pant National Institute of Himalayan Environment & Sustainable Development, Almora, Uttarakhand, India
| | - Arun K Jugran
- G.B. Pant National Institute of Himalayan Environment & Sustainable Development, Srinagar, Uttarakhand, India
| | - Paolo Zucca
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Cagliari - Cagliari, University Campus, Monserrato, Italy
| | - Antonio Rescigno
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Cagliari - Cagliari, University Campus, Monserrato, Italy
| | - Stefania Peddio
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Cagliari - Cagliari, University Campus, Monserrato, Italy
| | - Otilia Bobiş
- Life Science Institute, Apiculture and Sericulture Department, University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine Cluj-Napoca, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Adela Ramona Moise
- Life Science Institute, Apiculture and Sericulture Department, University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine Cluj-Napoca, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
| | - Gerardo Leyva-Gómez
- Departamento de Farmacia, Facultad de Química, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Ciudad de México, Mexico
| | - María L Del Prado-Audelo
- Departamento de Farmacia, Facultad de Química, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Ciudad de México, Mexico
| | - Hernán Cortes
- Laboratorio de Medicina Genómica, Departamento de Genética, Instituto Nacional de Rehabilitación Luis Guillermo Ibarra Ibarra, Ciudad de México, Mexico
| | - Marcello Iriti
- Department of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, Milan State University, Milan, Italy
| | - Miquel Martorell
- Department of Nutrition and Dietetics, Faculty of Pharmacy, and Centre for Healthy Living, University of Concepción, Concepción, Chile.,Universidad de Concepción, Unidad de Desarrollo Tecnológico, UDT, Concepción, Chile
| | - Natália Cruz-Martins
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Porto, Alameda Professor Hernâni Monteiro, Porto, Portugal.,Institute for Research and Innovation in Health (i3S), University of Porto, Porto, Portugal.,Laboratory of Neuropsychophysiology, Faculty of Psychology and Education Sciences, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Manoj Kumar
- Chemical and Biochemical Processing Division, ICAR - Central Institute for Research on Cotton Technology, Mumbai, India
| | - Wissam Zam
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Department of Analytical and Food Chemistry, Al-Wadi International University, Homs, Syria
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Poovitha S, Parani M. Protein extracts from Momordica charantia var. charantia and M. charantia var. muricata show anti-lipidemic and antioxidant properties in experimental type 2 diabetic rats. J Food Biochem 2020; 44:e13370. [PMID: 32643818 DOI: 10.1111/jfbc.13370] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2020] [Revised: 06/04/2020] [Accepted: 06/09/2020] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
Plant-derived compounds are used to manage dyslipidemia and oxidative stress in type 2 diabetic condition. In this study, anti-lipidemic and antioxidant properties of the protein extracts from "Charantia" (PEC) and "Muricata" (PEM) varieties of Momordica charantia were analyzed by quantifying lipids, hepatic, renal, and oxidative stress markers, and histopathological examination of liver and kidney tissues. Protein extracts were orally administered at 10 (PEC10, PEM10) or 20 mg/kg body weight (PEC20, PEM20). Levels of cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein, and triglycerides decreased but high-density lipoprotein increased significantly in treated rats as compared to untreated diabetic rats (p < .01), and attained normal physiological range in both doses. Levels of superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione peroxidase, and reduced glutathione increased but thiobarbituric acid reactive substances decreased significantly in treated rats as compared to untreated diabetic rats (p < .01), and attained normal physiological range in PEM20 only. Histopathological examinations supported a protective role for the protein extracts against oxidative stress. PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS: Momordica charantia, a well-known medicinal plant is traditionally used for treating diabetes in India as well as other countries. The whole plant was shown to have medicinal importance. Anti-diabetic potential of this plant was scientifically established largely using organic extracts and water extract mainly from the fruits of this plant. However, protein extracts from the seeds and fruit pulp of this plant were also proven to have anti-diabetic activity. The present study illustrates the anti-lipidemic and antioxidant effect of protein extracts from the fruit pulp of two varieties of M. charantia (Charantia and Muricata) in Streptozotocin-induced type 2 diabetic rats. This study provides experimental evidence in support of its use in the management of type 2 diabetes-related complications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sundar Poovitha
- Genomics Laboratory, Department of Genetic Engineering, SRM Institute of Science and Technology, Kattankulathur, India
| | - Madasamy Parani
- Genomics Laboratory, Department of Genetic Engineering, SRM Institute of Science and Technology, Kattankulathur, India
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Potential Biomarkers of Peripheral and Central Fatigue in High-Intensity Trained Athletes at High-Temperature: A Pilot Study with Momordica charantia (Bitter Melon). J Immunol Res 2020; 2020:4768390. [PMID: 32587872 PMCID: PMC7298321 DOI: 10.1155/2020/4768390] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2020] [Revised: 05/08/2020] [Accepted: 05/19/2020] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Among potent dietary supplements, Momordica charantia, commonly called bitter melon, has various biological effects, such as antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, and improves energy metabolism and fatigue recovery. However, it is unknown whether Momordica charantia extract (MCE) induces antifatigue effects during exercise training in high-temperature environments. This study aimed at investigating the efficacy of MCE by examining 10 male tennis players consuming 100 mL MCE/dose (6 times a day over 4 weeks) during the summer training season. Peripheral (ammonia and uric acid) and central (serotonin, dopamine, and prolactin) fatigue parameters were measured before and after MCE consumption; before, during, and after exercise; and the next morning. After consuming MCE supplements, ammonia levels were higher during and after exercise and recovered the next morning, whereas uric acid levels did not change at any time point. Serotonin levels were lower during exercise. Dopamine levels were higher, especially during exercise. Prolactin levels were lower at all time points, especially during and after exercise. Although high-intensity training in a hot environment causes accumulation of fatigue-related metabolites, our results indicate that 4 weeks of MCE intake positively influenced fatigue parameters, suggesting that MCE can efficiently combat fatigue.
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TLR5 silencing reduced hyperammonaemia-induced liver injury by inhibiting oxidative stress and inflammation responses via inactivating NF-κB and MAPK signals. Chem Biol Interact 2018; 299:102-110. [PMID: 30508503 DOI: 10.1016/j.cbi.2018.11.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2018] [Revised: 11/20/2018] [Accepted: 11/29/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Liver injury is a serious threat for human health and life. Toll-like receptor 5 (TLR5) has reported to be a vital mediator in flagellin or tetrachloride (CCl4)-induced liver injury. However, the roles and etiology of TLR5 in hyperammonaemia (HA)-induced liver injury are poor defined. METHODS HA rats were generated by intragastric administration using ammonium chloride solution. Liver status was assessed by haematoxylin and eosin (H&E) staining and measuring serum levels of liver injury markers. Immunohistochemistry (IHC) assay was used to visualize protein expression in tissues. Apoptotic index in tissues was determined by TUNEL assay. RT-qPCR assay was employed to test mRNA expression. Oxidative stress responses was assessed by detecting levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and related indicators. NF-κB activity was examined by TransAM NF-κB colorimetric kit. RESULTS TLR5 was highly expressed in liver tissues of HA rats. TLR5 knockdown ameliorated HA-induced liver injury by inhibiting liver cell apoptosis. TLR5 depletion inhibited HA-induced pro-inflammatory cytokine expression in liver tissues, but had no effect on the infiltration of T and macrophage cells into liver tissues. TLR5 silencing impaired HA-induced oxidative stress responses in hepatocytes, but not in hepatic stellate cells (HSCs). TLR5 downregulation inhibited HA-induced activation on TLR5/NF-κB and TLR5/MAPK signaling pathways. CONCLUSION TLR5 silencing reduced HA-induced liver injury by inhibiting hepatocyte apoptosis, oxidative stress and inflammation responses via inactivating NF-κB and MAPK signals, deepening our understanding on the molecular mechanism of HA-induced liver injury and providing a potential therapeutic target for alleviating liver injury.
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Lee HJ, Cui R, Choi SE, Jeon JY, Kim HJ, Kim TH, Kang Y, Lee KW. Bitter melon extract ameliorates palmitate-induced apoptosis via inhibition of endoplasmic reticulum stress in HepG2 cells and high-fat/high-fructose-diet-induced fatty liver. Food Nutr Res 2018; 62:1319. [PMID: 30026676 PMCID: PMC5883859 DOI: 10.29219/fnr.v62.1319] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2017] [Revised: 01/28/2018] [Accepted: 02/05/2018] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Bitter melon (BM) improves glucose level, lipid homeostasis, and insulin resistance in vivo. However, the preventive mechanism of BM in nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) has not been elucidated yet. Aim & Design To determine the protective mechanism of bitter melon extract (BME), we performed experiments in vitro and in vivo. BME were treated palmitate (PA)-administrated HepG2 cells. C57BL/6J mice were divided into two groups: high-fat/high-fructose (HF/HFr) without or with BME supplementation (100 mg/kg body weight). Endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress, apoptosis, and biochemical markers were then examined by western blot and real-time PCR analyses. Results BME significantly decreased expression levels of ER-stress markers (including phospho-eIF2α, CHOP, and phospho-JNK [Jun N-terminal kinases]) in PA-treated HepG2 cells. BME also significantly decreased the activity of cleaved caspase-3 (a well known apoptotic-induced molecule) and DNA fragmentation. The effect of BME on ER stress-mediated apoptosis in vitro was similarly observed in HF/HFr-fed mice in vivo. BME significantly reduced HF/HFr-induced hepatic triglyceride (TG) and serum alanine aminotransferase (ALT) as markers of hepatic damage in mice. In addition, BME ameliorated HF/HFr-induced serum TG and serum-free fatty acids. Conclusion These data indicate that BME has protective effects against ER stress mediated apoptosis in HepG2 cells as well as in HF/HFr-induced fatty liver of mouse. Therefore, BME might be useful for preventing and treating NAFLD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hwa Joung Lee
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Ajou University School of Medicine, Suwon, Republic of Korea
| | - Rihua Cui
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Ajou University School of Medicine, Suwon, Republic of Korea
| | - Sung-E Choi
- Department of Physiology, Ajou University School of Medicine, Suwon, Republic of Korea
| | - Ja Young Jeon
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Ajou University School of Medicine, Suwon, Republic of Korea
| | - Hae Jin Kim
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Ajou University School of Medicine, Suwon, Republic of Korea
| | - Tae Ho Kim
- Division of Endocrine and Metabolism, Department of Internal Medicine, Seoul Medical Center, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Yup Kang
- Department of Physiology, Ajou University School of Medicine, Suwon, Republic of Korea
| | - Kwan-Woo Lee
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Ajou University School of Medicine, Suwon, Republic of Korea
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Jia S, Shen M, Zhang F, Xie J. Recent Advances in Momordica charantia: Functional Components and Biological Activities. Int J Mol Sci 2017; 18:E2555. [PMID: 29182587 PMCID: PMC5751158 DOI: 10.3390/ijms18122555] [Citation(s) in RCA: 143] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2017] [Revised: 11/20/2017] [Accepted: 11/22/2017] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Momordica charantia L. (M. charantia), a member of the Cucurbitaceae family, is widely distributed in tropical and subtropical regions of the world. It has been used in folk medicine for the treatment of diabetes mellitus, and its fruit has been used as a vegetable for thousands of years. Phytochemicals including proteins, polysaccharides, flavonoids, triterpenes, saponins, ascorbic acid and steroids have been found in this plant. Various biological activities of M. charantia have been reported, such as antihyperglycemic, antibacterial, antiviral, antitumor, immunomodulation, antioxidant, antidiabetic, anthelmintic, antimutagenic, antiulcer, antilipolytic, antifertility, hepatoprotective, anticancer and anti-inflammatory activities. However, both in vitro and in vivo studies have also demonstrated that M. charantia may also exert toxic or adverse effects under different conditions. This review addresses the chemical constituents of M. charantia and discusses their pharmacological activities as well as their adverse effects, aimed at providing a comprehensive overview of the phytochemistry and biological activities of M. charantia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuo Jia
- State Key Laboratory of Food Science and Technology, Nanchang University, Nanchang 330047, China.
| | - Mingyue Shen
- State Key Laboratory of Food Science and Technology, Nanchang University, Nanchang 330047, China.
| | - Fan Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Food Science and Technology, Nanchang University, Nanchang 330047, China.
| | - Jianhua Xie
- State Key Laboratory of Food Science and Technology, Nanchang University, Nanchang 330047, China.
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Deng Y, Tang Q, Zhang Y, Zhang R, Wei Z, Tang X, Zhang M. Protective effect of Momordica charantia water extract against liver injury in restraint-stressed mice and the underlying mechanism. Food Nutr Res 2017; 61:1348864. [PMID: 28747868 PMCID: PMC5510204 DOI: 10.1080/16546628.2017.1348864] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2016] [Accepted: 06/23/2017] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Momordica charantia is used in China for its jianghuo (heat-clearing and detoxifying) effects. The concept of shanghuo (the antonym of jianghuo, excessive internal heat) in traditional Chinese medicine is considered a type of stress response of the body. The stress process involves internal organs, especially the liver. Objective: We hypothesized that Momordica charantia water extract (MWE) has a hepatoprotective effect and can protect the body from stress. The aim of this study was to investigate the possible effects of MWE against liver injury in restraint-stressed mice. Design: The mice were intragastrically administered with MWE (250, 500 and 750 mg/kg bw) daily for 7 days. The Normal Control (NC) and Model groups were administered distilled water. A positive control group was intragastrically administered vitamin C 250 mg/kg bw. After the last administration, mice were restrained for 20 h. Results: MWE reduced the serum AST and ALT, reduced the NO content and the protein expression level of iNOSin the liver; significantly reduced the mitochondrial ROS content, increased the mitochondrial membrane potential and the activities of mitochondrial respiratory chain complexes I and II in restraint-stressed mice. Conclusions: The results indicate that MWE has a protective effect against liver injury in restraint-stressed mice. Abbreviations: MWE: Momordica charantia water extract; M. charantia: Momordica charantia L.; ROS: reactive oxygen species; NO: nitric oxide; iNOS: inducible nitric oxide synthase; IL-1β: interleukin-1 beta; TNF-α: tumor necrosis factor alpha; IL-6: interleukin 6; IFN-γ: interferon gamma; VC: vitamin C; ALT: alanine transaminase; AST: aspartate aminotransferase; GSH: glutathione; GSH-PX: glutathione peroxidase; MDA: malondialdehyde; BCA: bicinchoninic acid; TBARS: thiobarbituric acid reactive substances; Trolox: 6-hydroxy-2,5,7,8-tetramethylchroman-2-carboxylic acid; JC-B: Janus Green B; DW: dry weight; FC: Folin-Ciocalteu; GAE: gallic acid equivalents; bw: body weight; NC: normal control group; Model: restraint stress model group; VC: positive control vitamin C group, 250 mg/kg bw; MWEL: Momordica charantia water extract low-dose group, 250 mg/kg bw; MWEM: Momordica charantia water extract middle-dose group, 500 mg/kg bw; MWEH: Momordica charantia water extract high-dose group, 750 mg/kg bw; HE: hematoxylin and eosin; ORAC: total oxygen radical absorbance capacity; ABAP: dihydrochloride; ATP: adenosine triphosphate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuanyuan Deng
- Key Laboratory of Functional Foods, Ministry of Agriculture, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Agricultural Products Processing, Sericultural & Agri-food Research Institute Guangdong Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Guangzhou, P. R. China
| | - Qin Tang
- Key Laboratory of Functional Foods, Ministry of Agriculture, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Agricultural Products Processing, Sericultural & Agri-food Research Institute Guangdong Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Guangzhou, P. R. China
| | - Yan Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Functional Foods, Ministry of Agriculture, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Agricultural Products Processing, Sericultural & Agri-food Research Institute Guangdong Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Guangzhou, P. R. China
| | - Ruifen Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Functional Foods, Ministry of Agriculture, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Agricultural Products Processing, Sericultural & Agri-food Research Institute Guangdong Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Guangzhou, P. R. China
| | - Zhencheng Wei
- Key Laboratory of Functional Foods, Ministry of Agriculture, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Agricultural Products Processing, Sericultural & Agri-food Research Institute Guangdong Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Guangzhou, P. R. China
| | - Xiaojun Tang
- Key Laboratory of Functional Foods, Ministry of Agriculture, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Agricultural Products Processing, Sericultural & Agri-food Research Institute Guangdong Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Guangzhou, P. R. China
| | - Mingwei Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Functional Foods, Ministry of Agriculture, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Agricultural Products Processing, Sericultural & Agri-food Research Institute Guangdong Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Guangzhou, P. R. China
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Erukainure OL, Ajiboye JA, Okafor OY, Okoro EE, Asieba G, Sarumi BB, Adenekan SO, Zaruwa MZ. Alcoholic lung injury: pineapple peel extract modulates antioxidant enzymes and attenuates lipid peroxidation in rat models. CLINICAL PHYTOSCIENCE 2017. [DOI: 10.1186/s40816-016-0026-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
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Bai J, Zhu Y, Dong Y. Response of gut microbiota and inflammatory status to bitter melon (Momordica charantia L.) in high fat diet induced obese rats. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2016; 194:717-726. [PMID: 27751827 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2016.10.043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2016] [Revised: 09/13/2016] [Accepted: 10/14/2016] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Bitter melon (Momordica charantia L.) is rich in a variety of biologically active ingredients, and has been widely used in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) to treat various diseases, including type 2 diabetes and obesity. AIM OF THE STUDY We aimed to investigate how bitter melon powder (BMP) could affect obesity-associated inflammatory responses to ameliorate high-fat diet (HFD)-induced insulin resistance, and investigated whether its anti-inflammatory properties were effected by modulating the gut microbiota. MATERIALS AND METHODS Obese SD rats (Sprague-Dawley rats, rattus norregicus) were randomly divided into four groups: (a) normal control diet (NCD) and distilled water, (b) HFD and distilled water, (c) HFD and 300mg BMP/kg body weight (bw), (d) HFD and 10mg pioglitazone (PGT)/kg bw. RESULTS We observed remarkable decreases in the fasting glucose, fasting insulin, HOMA-IR index, serum lipid levels, and cell sizes of epididymal adipose tissues in the BMP and PGT groups after 8 weeks. BMP could significantly improve the proinflammatory cytokine tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) and interleukin-6 (IL-6), anti-inflammatory cytokine interleukin-10 (IL-10), and local endotoxin levels compared to the HFD group (p<0.05). BMP suppressed the activation of nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) by inhibiting inhibitor of NF-κB alpha (IκBα) degradation and phosphorylation of c-Jun N-terminal kinase/ p38 mitogen-activated protein kinases (JNK/p38 MAPKs) in adipose tissue. Sequencing results illustrated that BMP treatment markedly decreased the proportion of the endotoxin-producing opportunistic pathogens and increased butyrate producers. CONCLUSIONS These results demonstrate that BMP ameliorates insulin sensitivity partly via relieving the inflammatory status in the system and in white adipose tissues of obese rats, and is associated with a proportional regulation of specific gut microbiota.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juan Bai
- School of Food and Biological Engineering, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang 212013, China.
| | - Ying Zhu
- School of Food and Biological Engineering, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang 212013, China.
| | - Ying Dong
- School of Food and Biological Engineering, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang 212013, China.
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Mousa N, Abdel-Razik A, Zaher A, Hamed M, Shiha G, Effat N, Elbaz S, Elhelaly R, Hafez M, El-Wakeel N, Eldars W. The role of antioxidants and zinc in minimal hepatic encephalopathy: a randomized trial. Therap Adv Gastroenterol 2016; 9:684-91. [PMID: 27582881 PMCID: PMC4984323 DOI: 10.1177/1756283x16645049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Minimal hepatic encephalopathy (MHE) has a far-reaching impact on quality and function ability in daily life and may progress to overt hepatic encephalopathy. There is a synergistic effect between systemic oxidative stress and ammonia that is implicated in the pathogenesis of hepatic encephalopathy. The aim of this study is to investigate the effectiveness of oral supplementation of antioxidants and zinc gluconate on MHE versus lactulose. METHODS Our study included 58 patients with cirrhosis diagnosed as having MHE by neuropsychometric tests, including number connection test part A (NCT-A), digit symbol test (DST) and block design tests (BDTs). Patients were randomized to receive 175 mg zinc gluconate, 50,000 IU vitamin A, 500 mg vitamin C and 100 mg vitamin E once daily plus lactulose, dose 30-60 ml/day for 3 months [group A (n = 31)] or initiated and maintained on lactulose dose 30-60 ml/day for 3 months [group B (n = 27)]. Neuropsychometric tests and laboratory investigations were repeated after 3 months of therapy. RESULTS Compared with the baseline neuropsychometric tests, a significant improvement was reported in patients with MHE after 3 months of antioxidant and zinc therapy (group A) versus patients with lactulose therapy (group B) (NCT-A, p <0.001; DST, p = 0.006; BDT, p < 0.001). Antioxidant and zinc supplementation significantly decreased arterial ammonia level, alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST) (p < 0.001) and improved Child-Pugh score in MHE after 3 months of therapy (p= 0.024). CONCLUSION Antioxidant and zinc supplementation can improve MHE in patients with liver cirrhosis.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ahmed Abdel-Razik
- Department of Tropical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Mansoura University, Mansoura City, Egypt
| | - Ashraf Zaher
- Department of Neurology, Faculty of Medicine, Mansoura University, Mansoura City, Egypt
| | - Magdy Hamed
- Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Mansoura University, Mansoura City, Egypt
| | - Gamal Shiha
- Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Mansoura University, Mansoura City, Egypt
| | - Narmin Effat
- Department of Clinical Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, Mansoura University, Mansoura City, Egypt
| | - Sherif Elbaz
- Endemic Diseases and Gastroenterology Department, Aswan University, Aswan, Egypt
| | - Rania Elhelaly
- Department of Clinical Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, Mansoura University, Mansoura City, Egypt
| | - Mohamed Hafez
- Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Aswan University, Aswan, Egypt
| | - Niveen El-Wakeel
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, Mansoura University, Mansoura City, Egypt
| | - Waleed Eldars
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, Mansoura University, Mansoura City, Egypt
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Lu HY, Lin BF. Wild bitter melon alleviates dextran sulphate sodium-induced murine colitis by suppressing inflammatory responses and enhancing intestinal regulatory T cells. J Funct Foods 2016. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jff.2016.03.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
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Dandawate PR, Subramaniam D, Padhye SB, Anant S. Bitter melon: a panacea for inflammation and cancer. Chin J Nat Med 2016; 14:81-100. [PMID: 26968675 PMCID: PMC5276711 DOI: 10.1016/s1875-5364(16)60002-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2015] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Nature is a rich source of medicinal plants and their products that are useful for treatment of various diseases and disorders. Momordica charantia, commonly known as bitter melon or bitter gourd, is one of such plants known for its biological activities used in traditional system of medicines. This plant is cultivated in all over the world, including tropical areas of Asia, Amazon, east Africa, and the Caribbean and used as a vegetable as well as folk medicine. All parts of the plant, including the fruit, are commonly consumed and cooked with different vegetables, stir-fried, stuffed or used in small quantities in soups or beans to give a slightly bitter flavor and taste. The plant is reported to possess anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-cancer, anti-diabetic, anti-bacterial, anti-obesity, and immunomodulatory activities. The plant extract inhibits cancer cell growth by inducing apoptosis, cell cycle arrest, autophagy and inhibiting cancer stem cells. The plant is rich in bioactive chemical constituents like cucurbitane type triterpenoids, triterpene glycosides, phenolic acids, flavonoids, essential oils, saponins, fatty acids, and proteins. Some of the isolated compounds (Kuguacin J, Karaviloside XI, Kuguaglycoside C, Momordicoside Q-U, Charantin, α-eleostearic acid) and proteins (α-Momorcharin, RNase MC2, MAP30) possess potent biological activity. In the present review, we are summarizing the anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-cancer activities of Momordica charantia along with a short account of important chemical constituents, providing a basis for establishing detail biological activities of the plant and developing novel drug molecules based on the active chemical constituents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Prasad R Dandawate
- Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, The University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS 66160, USA; Department of Surgery, The University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS 66160, USA
| | - Dharmalingam Subramaniam
- Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, The University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS 66160, USA; Department of Surgery, The University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS 66160, USA; The University of Kansas Cancer Center, Kansas City, KS 66160, USA
| | - Subhash B Padhye
- Interdisciplinary Science & Technology Research Academy, Abeda Inamdar Senior College, Azam Campus, Pune, 411001, India
| | - Shrikant Anant
- Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, The University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS 66160, USA; Department of Surgery, The University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS 66160, USA; The University of Kansas Cancer Center, Kansas City, KS 66160, USA.
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Kwatra D, Dandawate P, Padhye S, Anant S. Bitter Melon as a Therapy for Diabetes, Inflammation, and Cancer: a Panacea? ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2016. [DOI: 10.1007/s40495-016-0045-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
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Sagor AT, Chowdhury MRH, Tabassum N, Hossain H, Rahman MM, Alam MA. Supplementation of fresh ucche (Momordica charantia L. var. muricata Willd) prevented oxidative stress, fibrosis and hepatic damage in CCl4 treated rats. BMC COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE 2015; 15:115. [PMID: 25884170 PMCID: PMC4423480 DOI: 10.1186/s12906-015-0636-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2014] [Accepted: 03/26/2015] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
Background Ucche (Momordica charantia L. var. muricata (Willd.) Chakravarty) has been reported to possess many benefits and medicinal properties. However, the protective effect of ucche against carbon tetrachloride (CCl4) induced hepatotoxicity have not been clarified fully yet. The aim of the present study was to investigate the effects of ucche on oxidative stress and inflammation in liver of CCl4 treated rats. Methods Female Long Evans rats were administered with CCl4 orally (1 ml/kg) twice a week for 2 weeks and were supplemented with freshly prepared crashed ucche (10% wt/wt of diet) with powdered chaw food. Both plasma and liver tissues were analyzed for AST, ALT and ALP activities. Oxidative stress parameters were measure by determining malondialdehyde (MDA), nitric oxide (NO), advanced protein oxidation product (APOP), and reduced glutathione (GSH) concentrations and catalase activities in plasma and liver tissues. Moreover, inflammation and tissue fibrosis were confirmed by histological staining of liver tissue sections. Results Our data suggest that ucche significantly prevented CCl4-induced hepatotoxicity, indicated by both diagnostic indicators of liver damage (serum transferases activities) and histopathological analysis. Moreover, CCl4 administration induced profound elevation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) production and oxidative stress, as evidenced by increasing lipid peroxidation level and depletion of antioxidant enzymes in liver. Fresh ucche supplementation prevented the oxidative stresses and improved antioxidant enzyme function. Furthermore, fresh ucche supplementation reduced hepatic inflammatory cell infiltration, iron deposition and fibrosis in liver of CCl4 treated rats. Conclusion In conclusion, these results suggested that the inhibition of CCl4-induced inflammation by ucche is due at least in part to its anti-oxidant activity and its ability to modulate the inflammation and fibrosis in liver.
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Beneficial role of bitter melon supplementation in obesity and related complications in metabolic syndrome. J Lipids 2015; 2015:496169. [PMID: 25650336 PMCID: PMC4306384 DOI: 10.1155/2015/496169] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2014] [Accepted: 12/05/2014] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Diabetes, obesity, and metabolic syndrome are becoming epidemic both in developed and developing countries in recent years. Complementary and alternative medicines have been used since ancient era for the treatment of diabetes and cardiovascular diseases. Bitter melon is widely used as vegetables in daily food in Bangladesh and several other countries in Asia. The fruits extract of bitter melon showed strong antioxidant and hypoglycemic activities in experimental condition both in vivo and in vitro. Recent scientific evaluation of this plant extracts also showed potential therapeutic benefit in diabetes and obesity related metabolic dysfunction in experimental animals and clinical studies. These beneficial effects are mediated probably by inducing lipid and fat metabolizing gene expression and increasing the function of AMPK and PPARs, and so forth. This review will thus focus on the recent findings on beneficial effect of Momordica charantia extracts on metabolic syndrome and discuss its potential mechanism of actions.
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Lu KH, Tseng HC, Liu CT, Huang CJ, Chyuan JH, Sheen LY. Wild bitter gourd protects against alcoholic fatty liver in mice by attenuating oxidative stress and inflammatory responses. Food Funct 2014; 5:1027-37. [PMID: 24664243 DOI: 10.1039/c3fo60449g] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Bitter gourd (Momordica charantia L.) is a common vegetable grown widely in Asia that is used as a traditional medicine. The objective of this study was to investigate whether wild bitter gourd possessed protective effects against chronic alcohol-induced liver injury in mice. C57BL/6 mice were fed an alcohol-containing liquid diet for 4 weeks to induce alcoholic fatty liver. Meanwhile, mice were treated with ethanol extracts from four different wild bitter gourd cultivars: Hualien No. 1', Hualien No. 2', Hualien No. 3' and Hualien No. 4'. The results indicated that the daily administration of 500 mg kg body weight(-1) of a Hualien No. 3' extract (H3E) or a Hualien No. 4' extract (H4E) markedly reduced the steatotic alternation of liver histopathology. In addition, the activation of serum aminotransferases (AST and ALT) and the accumulation of hepatic TG content caused by alcohol were ameliorated. The hepatoprotective effects of H3E and H4E involved the enhancement of the antioxidant defence system (GSH, GPx, GRd, CAT and SOD), inhibition of lipid peroxidation (MDA) and reduction of pro-inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-1β and IL-6) in the liver. Moreover, H3E and H4E supplementation suppressed the alcohol-induced elevation of CYP2E1, SREBP-1, FAS and ACC protein expression. These results demonstrated that ethanol extracts of Hualien No. 3' and Hualien No. 4' have beneficial effects against alcoholic fatty liver, in which they attenuate oxidative stress and inflammatory responses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kuan-Hung Lu
- Institute of Food Science and Technology, College of Bio-Resources and Agriculture, National Taiwan University, No. 1, Sec. 4, Roosevelt Road, Taipei, Taiwan 10617.
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The therapeutic potential of medicinal foods. Adv Pharmacol Sci 2014; 2014:354264. [PMID: 24822061 PMCID: PMC4009199 DOI: 10.1155/2014/354264] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2013] [Revised: 03/09/2014] [Accepted: 03/09/2014] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Pharmaceutical and nutritional sciences have recently witnessed a bloom in the scientific literature geared towards the use of food plants for their diversified health benefits and potential clinical applications. Health professionals now recognize that a synergism of drug therapy and nutrition might confer optimum outcomes in the fight against diseases. The prophylactic benefits of food plants are being investigated for potential use as novel medicinal remedies due to the presence of pharmacologically active compounds. Although the availability of scientific data is rapidly growing, there is still a paucity of updated compilation of data and concerns about the rationale of these health-foods still persist in the literature. This paper attempts to congregate the nutritional value, phytochemical composition, traditional uses, in vitro and in vivo studies of 10 common medicinal food plants used against chronic noncommunicable and infectious diseases. Food plants included were based on the criteria that they are consumed as a common food in a typical diet as either fruit or vegetable for their nutritive value but have also other parts which are in common use in folk medicine. The potential challenges of incorporating these medicinal foods in the diet which offers prospective opportunities for future drug development are also discussed.
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Nkambo W, Anyama NG, Onegi B. In vivo hypoglycemic effect of methanolic fruit extract of Momordica charantia L. Afr Health Sci 2013; 13:933-9. [PMID: 24940315 DOI: 10.4314/ahs.v13i4.11] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Momordica charantia L. is a medicinal plant commonly used in the management of diabetes mellitus. OBJECTIVES We investigated the blood glucose lowering effect of the methanolic fruit extract of the Ugandan variety of M. charantia L. in alloxan-induced diabetic albino rats. METHODS 500g of M. charantia powder were macerated in methanol and the extract administered to two groups of alloxan-induced diabetic rats. The first group received 125mg/kg, the second 375mg/kg and a third group 7mg/kg of metformin. A fourth group received 1ml normal saline. Fasting blood glucose (FBG) levels were measured at 0.5,1,2,3,5,8 and 12 hours and compared using one-way ANOVA. RESULTS There was an initial rise in FBG for 1 hour after administration of extracts followed by steep reductions. Significant reduction in FBG occurred at 2 hours for 125mg/kg of extract (-3.2%, 313±25.9 to 303±25.0mg/dL, p = 0.049), 375mg/kg of extract (-3.9%, 356±19.7 to 342±20.3mg/dL, p = 0.001), and metformin (-2.6%, 344±21.7 to 335±21.1mg/dL, p = 0.003) when compared to normal saline. The maximum percentage reduction in FBG by both extracts occurred between 3 and 12 hours post dose. CONCLUSIONS The methanolic fruit extract of M. charantia exhibits dose dependent hypoglycaemic activity in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- W Nkambo
- Department of Pharmacy, School of Health Sciences, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, P.O. Box 7072, Kampala, Uganda
| | - N G Anyama
- Department of Pharmacy, School of Health Sciences, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, P.O. Box 7072, Kampala, Uganda
| | - B Onegi
- Department of Pharmacy, School of Health Sciences, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, P.O. Box 7072, Kampala, Uganda
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Upadhyay A, Singh VK, Singh DK. CHARACTERIZATION OF MOLLUSCICIDAL COMPONENT OF Moringa oleifera LEAF AND Momordica charantia FRUITS AND THEIR MODES OF ACTION IN SNAIL Lymnaea acuminata. Rev Inst Med Trop Sao Paulo 2013. [DOI: 10.1590/s0036-46652013000400006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
SUMMARY The molluscicidal activity of the leaf powder of Moringa oleifera and lyophilized fruit powder of Momordica charantia against the snail Lymnaea acuminata was time and concentration dependent. M. oleifera leaf powder (96 h LC50: 197.59 ppm) was more toxic than M. charantia lyophilized fruit powder (96 h LC50: 318.29 ppm). The ethanolic extracts of M. oleifera leaf powder and Momordica charantia lyophilized fruit powder were more toxic than other organic solvent extracts. The 96 h LC50 of the column purified fraction of M. oleifera leaf powder was 22.52 ppm, while that of M. charantia lyophilized fruit powder was 6.21 ppm. Column, thin layer and high performance liquid chromatography analysis show that the active molluscicidal components in M. oleifera leaf powder and lyophilized fruit of M. charantia are benzylamine (96 h LC50: 2.3 ppm) and momordicine (96 h LC50: 1.2 ppm), respectively. Benzylamine and momordicine significantly inhibited, in vivo and in vitro, the acetylcholinesterase (AChE), acid and alkaline phosphatase (ACP/ALP) activities in the nervous tissues of L. acuminata. Inhibition of AChE, ACP and ALP activity in the nervous tissues of L. acuminata by benzylamine and momordicine may be responsible for the molluscicidal activity of M. oleifera and M. charantia fruits, respectively.
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Kaur M, Deep G, Jain AK, Raina K, Agarwal C, Wempe MF, Agarwal R. Bitter melon juice activates cellular energy sensor AMP-activated protein kinase causing apoptotic death of human pancreatic carcinoma cells. Carcinogenesis 2013; 34:1585-92. [PMID: 23475945 PMCID: PMC3697895 DOI: 10.1093/carcin/bgt081] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2012] [Revised: 02/06/2013] [Accepted: 02/21/2013] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Prognosis of pancreatic cancer is extremely poor, suggesting critical needs for additional drugs to improve disease outcome. In this study, we examined efficacy and associated mechanism of a novel agent bitter melon juice (BMJ) against pancreatic carcinoma cells both in culture and nude mice. BMJ anticancer efficacy was analyzed in human pancreatic carcinoma BxPC-3, MiaPaCa-2, AsPC-1 and Capan-2 cells by 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazole-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyl tetrazolium bromide, cell death enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and annexin/propidium iodide assays. BMJ effect on apoptosis regulators was assessed by immunoblotting. In vivo BMJ efficacy was evaluated against MiaPaCa-2 tumors in nude mice, and xenograft was analyzed for biomarkers by immunohistochemistry (IHC). Results showed that BMJ (2-5% v/v) decreases cell viability in all four pancreatic carcinoma cell lines by inducing strong apoptotic death. At molecular level, BMJ caused caspases activation, altered expression of Bcl-2 family members and cytochrome-c release into the cytosol. Additionally, BMJ decreased survivin and X-linked inhibitor of apoptosis protein but increased p21, CHOP and phosphorylated mitogen-activated protein kinases (extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1/2 and p38) levels. Importantly, BMJ activated adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase (AMPK), a biomarker for cellular energy status, and an AMPK inhibitor (Compound C) reversed BMJ-induced caspase-3 activation suggesting activated AMPK involvement in BMJ-induced apoptosis. In vivo, oral administration of lyophilized BMJ (5mg in 100 µl water/day/mouse) for 6 weeks inhibited MiaPaCa-2 tumor xenograft growth by 60% (P < 0.01) without noticeable toxicity in nude mice. IHC analyses of MiaPaCa-2 xenografts showed that BMJ also inhibits proliferation, induces apoptosis and activates AMPK in vivo. Overall, BMJ exerts strong anticancer efficacy against human pancreatic carcinoma cells, both in vitro and in vivo, suggesting its clinical usefulness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manjinder Kaur
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences and
| | - Gagan Deep
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences and
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Colorado Cancer Center, University of Colorado, Aurora, CO 80045, USA
| | - Anil K. Jain
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences and
| | - Komal Raina
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences and
| | - Chapla Agarwal
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences and
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Colorado Cancer Center, University of Colorado, Aurora, CO 80045, USA
| | - Michael F. Wempe
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences and
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Colorado Cancer Center, University of Colorado, Aurora, CO 80045, USA
| | - Rajesh Agarwal
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences and
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Colorado Cancer Center, University of Colorado, Aurora, CO 80045, USA
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Kim JB, Lim N, Kim SJ, Heo TH. N-acetylcysteine normalizes the urea cycle and DNA repair in cells from patients with Batten disease. Cell Biochem Funct 2012; 30:677-82. [DOI: 10.1002/cbf.2849] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2011] [Revised: 05/14/2012] [Accepted: 05/16/2012] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- June-Bum Kim
- Department of Pediatrics; Seoul Children's Hospital; Seoul; Korea
| | - Nary Lim
- Department of Biotechnology; Hoseo University; 165, Baebang; Asan; Chungnam; 336-795; Korea
| | - Sung-Jo Kim
- Department of Biotechnology; Hoseo University; 165, Baebang; Asan; Chungnam; 336-795; Korea
| | - Tae-Hwe Heo
- Integrated Research Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy; The Catholic University of Korea; Bucheon; 420-743; Korea
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