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Gonçalves AC, Falcão A, Alves G, Silva LR, Flores-Félix JD. Antioxidant activity of the main phenolics found in red fruits: An in vitro and in silico study. Food Chem 2024; 452:139459. [PMID: 38705121 DOI: 10.1016/j.foodchem.2024.139459] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2023] [Revised: 04/03/2024] [Accepted: 04/21/2024] [Indexed: 05/07/2024]
Abstract
The current study analysed the antioxidant capacity of the main phenolics found in red fruits. In total, there were analysed the antioxidant activity against 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl radical, nitric oxide and superoxide radicals (DPPH, NO and O2-, respectively) of 23 phenolics. Regarding DPPH, anthocyanins, (-)-epicatechin and kaempferol 3-O-rutinoside were the most active, while isorhamnetin 3-O-glucoside was the least active. Anthocyanins, (-)-epicatechin, quercetin 3-O-glucoside and caffeic acid showed the strongest potential against NO, while ρ-hydroxybenzoic acid was the less efficient. Regarding the O2- assay, quercetin aglycone and their derivatives were the best ones, while cyanidin aglycone did not show any potential to quench this radical. To deeper explore the biological potential of the most promising compounds, docking molecular and ADME studies were also done. The obtained data is another support regarding the biological potential of phenolics and might be useful in encouraging their use and incorporation in new products.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana C Gonçalves
- CICS-UBI-Health Sciences Research Centre, University of Beira Interior, 6201-506 Covilhã, Portugal; CIBIT-Coimbra Institute for Biomedical Imaging and Translational Research, University of Coimbra, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Amílcar Falcão
- CIBIT-Coimbra Institute for Biomedical Imaging and Translational Research, University of Coimbra, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal; Laboratory of Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Coimbra, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Gilberto Alves
- CICS-UBI-Health Sciences Research Centre, University of Beira Interior, 6201-506 Covilhã, Portugal
| | - Luís R Silva
- CICS-UBI-Health Sciences Research Centre, University of Beira Interior, 6201-506 Covilhã, Portugal; SPRINT - Sport Physical Activity and Health Research & Innovation Center, Instituto Politécnico da Guarda, 6300-559 Guarda, Portugal; CIEPQPF, Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Coimbra, Pólo II-Pinhal de Marrocos, 3030-790 Coimbra, Portugal.
| | - José David Flores-Félix
- CICS-UBI-Health Sciences Research Centre, University of Beira Interior, 6201-506 Covilhã, Portugal; Microbiology and Genetics Department, University of Salamanca, 37007 Salamanca, Spain.
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Martins MS, Rodrigues M, Flores-Félix JD, Garcia-Viguera C, Moreno DA, Alves G, Silva LR, Gonçalves AC. The Effect of Phenolic-Rich Extracts of Rubus fruticosus, R. ulmifolius and Morus nigra on Oxidative Stress and Caco-2 Inhibition Growth. Nutrients 2024; 16:1361. [PMID: 38732606 PMCID: PMC11085810 DOI: 10.3390/nu16091361] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2024] [Revised: 04/25/2024] [Accepted: 04/28/2024] [Indexed: 05/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Currently, a clear interest has been given to berries due to their richness in active metabolites, including anthocyanins and non-coloured phenolics. Therefore, the main aim of the present work is to investigate the phenolic profile, antioxidant abilities, and antiproliferative effects on normal human dermal fibroblasts (NHDF) and human colon carcinoma cell line (Caco-2) cells of phenolic-rich extracts from three red fruits highly appreciated by consumers: two species of blackberries (Rubus fruticosus and Rubus ulmifolius) and one species of mulberry (Morus nigra). A total of 19 different phenolics were identified and quantified by HPLC-DAD-ESI/MSn and HPLC-DAD, respectively. Focusing on the biological potential of the phenolic-rich extracts, all of them revealed notable scavenging abilities. Concerning the antiproliferative properties, R. fruticosus presented a cytotoxic selectivity for Caco-2 cells compared to NHDF cells. To deeper explore the biological potential, combinations with positive controls (ascorbic acid and 5-fluorouracil) were also conducted. Finally, the obtained data are another piece of evidence that the combination of phenolic-rich extracts from natural plants with positive controls may reduce clinical therapy costs and the possible toxicity of chemical drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mariana S. Martins
- CICS-UBI—Health Sciences Research Centre, University of Beira Interior, 6201-001 Covilhã, Portugal; (M.S.M.); (M.R.); (J.D.F.-F.); (G.A.)
| | - Márcio Rodrigues
- CICS-UBI—Health Sciences Research Centre, University of Beira Interior, 6201-001 Covilhã, Portugal; (M.S.M.); (M.R.); (J.D.F.-F.); (G.A.)
- Research Unit for Inland Development, Polytechnic Institute of Guarda (UDI-IPG), 6300-654 Guarda, Portugal
| | - José David Flores-Félix
- CICS-UBI—Health Sciences Research Centre, University of Beira Interior, 6201-001 Covilhã, Portugal; (M.S.M.); (M.R.); (J.D.F.-F.); (G.A.)
- Microbiology and Genetics Department, University of Salamanca, 37007 Salamanca, Spain
| | - Cristina Garcia-Viguera
- Laboratorio de Fitoquímica y Alimentos Saludables (LabFAS), Department Food Science and Technology, CSIC, CEBAS, Campus Universitario 25, Espinardo, 30100 Murcia, Spain; (C.G.-V.); (D.A.M.)
| | - Diego A. Moreno
- Laboratorio de Fitoquímica y Alimentos Saludables (LabFAS), Department Food Science and Technology, CSIC, CEBAS, Campus Universitario 25, Espinardo, 30100 Murcia, Spain; (C.G.-V.); (D.A.M.)
| | - Gilberto Alves
- CICS-UBI—Health Sciences Research Centre, University of Beira Interior, 6201-001 Covilhã, Portugal; (M.S.M.); (M.R.); (J.D.F.-F.); (G.A.)
| | - Luís R. Silva
- CICS-UBI—Health Sciences Research Centre, University of Beira Interior, 6201-001 Covilhã, Portugal; (M.S.M.); (M.R.); (J.D.F.-F.); (G.A.)
- SPRINT—Sport Physical Activity and Health Research & Innovation Center, Instituto Politécnico da Guarda, 6300-559 Guarda, Portugal
- CERES, Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Coimbra, 3030-790 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Ana C. Gonçalves
- CICS-UBI—Health Sciences Research Centre, University of Beira Interior, 6201-001 Covilhã, Portugal; (M.S.M.); (M.R.); (J.D.F.-F.); (G.A.)
- CIBIT—Coimbra Institute for Biomedical Imaging and Translational Research, University of Coimbra, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal
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Laranjeira IM, Dias ACP, Pinto-Ribeiro FL. Genista tridentata Phytochemical Characterization and Biological Activities: A Systematic Review. BIOLOGY 2023; 12:1387. [PMID: 37997986 PMCID: PMC10669091 DOI: 10.3390/biology12111387] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2023] [Revised: 10/26/2023] [Accepted: 10/28/2023] [Indexed: 11/25/2023]
Abstract
Genista tridentata (L.) Willk., known as "prickled broom", is a Leguminosae (Fabaceae) species native to the Iberian Peninsula, Morocco, Algeria, and Tunisia. It is used in folk medicine as an anti-inflammatory, for gastrointestinal and respiratory disorders, rheumatism, and headaches, to lower blood pressure, against hypercholesterolemia and hyperglycemia. This study aimed to systematically review the literature on the bioactivities and phytochemical profile of Genista tridentata to understand its pharmacological potential. For this, four electronic databases (PubMed, GoogleScholar, Repositórios Cientificos de Acesso Aberto de Portugal (RCCAP), and ScienceDirect) were searched from inception up to 31 December 2022. From a total of 264 potentially eligible studies considered for screening, 34 papers were considered eligible for this systematic review. The sampling included 71 extracts, collected mainly in Portugal. Genista tridentata extracts present a high level of flavonoids and phenolic compounds. The flowers and aerial parts of the plant were the most studied, and aqueous extracts were the most used. The results predict a high potential for the application of Genista tridentata as a new source of natural antioxidants and preservatives for the food industry with subsequent health benefits, such as the production of nutraceuticals. Moreover, the results indicate that the plant can be collected at all seasons of the year, which represents a benefit for the industry.
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Affiliation(s)
- Inês Martins Laranjeira
- Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), School of Medicine, Campus of Gualtar, University of Minho, 4710-057 Braga, Portugal;
- ICVS/3B’s—PT Government Associate Laboratory, 4806-909 Guimarães, Portugal
- CITAB—Centre for the Research and Technology of Agro-Environmental and Biological Sciences, University of Trás-os-Montes e Alto Douro, 5000-801 Vila Real, Portugal
- Centre of Molecular and Environmental Biology (CBMA), University of Minho, Campus de Gualtar, 4710-057 Braga, Portugal
| | - Alberto Carlos Pires Dias
- Centre of Molecular and Environmental Biology (CBMA), University of Minho, Campus de Gualtar, 4710-057 Braga, Portugal
| | - Filipa Lacerda Pinto-Ribeiro
- Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), School of Medicine, Campus of Gualtar, University of Minho, 4710-057 Braga, Portugal;
- ICVS/3B’s—PT Government Associate Laboratory, 4806-909 Guimarães, Portugal
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Martinez ODM, Gomes MJC, Grancieri M, de São José VPB, Toledo RCL, Queiroz VAV, da Silva BP, Martino HSD. Sorghum flour BRS 305 hybrid has the potential to modulate the intestinal microbiota of rats fed with a high-fat high-fructose diet. Eur J Nutr 2023; 62:647-657. [PMID: 36181539 DOI: 10.1007/s00394-022-03018-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2022] [Accepted: 09/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
AIM The present study aimed to investigate the effect of dry heated whole sorghum BRS 305 hybrid flour on the gut microbiota modulation and gut health of rats fed with a high-fat high-fructose diet (HFHF). METHODS In phase I (8 weeks), 45-50 days, male Wistar rats, were separated into the AIN93-M group (n = 10; fed with normal diet) and HFHF group (n = 20; fed with diet rich in saturated and simple carbohydrate). In phase II (10 weeks), we maintained the AIN-93-M group, and the HFHF group was divided into the HFHF group (n = 10) and HFHF plus sorghum flour group (n = 10). RESULTS The consumption of sorghum flour increased the circular muscle layer and propionic acid when compared to the HFHF group. The sequencing of the 16S rRNA gene of the cecal microbiota presented no changes in the α-diversity and β-diversity between. However, the sorghum group exhibited higher relative abundance of Firmicutes and higher Firmicutes/Bacteroidetes ratio compared to the other experimental groups, and lower abundance of Bacteroidetes, compared to the HFHF group. Despite, sorghum increased the abundance of the genera Roseburia and Lachnospiraceae_NK4A136_group compared to the HFHF group. No differences were observed in total goblet cell number, crypt thickness and height, circular muscle layer, secretory IgA, and butyric acid between all groups. CONCLUSIONS The consumption of sorghum flour can modulate the gut microbiota composition, abundance of SCFA-producing bacteria, and intestinal morphology even with consumption of an HFHF diet.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Mariana Grancieri
- Department of Nutrition and Health, Universidade Federal de Viçosa, Viçosa, MG, 36570-900, Brazil
| | | | - Renata Celi Lopes Toledo
- Department of Nutrition and Health, Universidade Federal de Viçosa, Viçosa, MG, 36570-900, Brazil
| | | | - Bárbara Pereira da Silva
- Department of Nutrition and Health, Universidade Federal de Viçosa, Viçosa, MG, 36570-900, Brazil
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Mascoloti Spréa R, Caleja C, Pinela J, Finimundy TC, Calhelha RC, Kostić M, Sokovic M, Prieto MA, Pereira E, Amaral JS, Barros L. Comparative study on the phenolic composition and in vitro bioactivity of medicinal and aromatic plants from the Lamiaceae family. Food Res Int 2022; 161:111875. [DOI: 10.1016/j.foodres.2022.111875] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2022] [Revised: 07/26/2022] [Accepted: 08/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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Wang J, Zhang L, Xin H, Guo Y, Zhu B, Su L, Wang S, Zeng J, Chen Q, Deng R, Wang Z, Wang J, Jin X, Gui S, Xu Y, Lu X. Mitochondria-targeting folic acid-modified nanoplatform based on mesoporous carbon and a bioactive peptide for improved colorectal cancer treatment. Acta Biomater 2022; 152:453-472. [PMID: 36084923 DOI: 10.1016/j.actbio.2022.08.071] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2022] [Revised: 08/18/2022] [Accepted: 08/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Oral colon-targeted drug delivery systems (OCDDs) are designed to deliver the therapeutic agents to colonic disease sites to improve the effectiveness of drug treatment, increase bioavailability, and reduce systemic side effects and are beneficial for the treatment of colorectal cancer (CRC) and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). However, concerns about the biosafety of OCDDs are increasing, and changes in the physiological environment of the gastrointestinal tract can affect the therapeutic efficacy of the drug. Herein, we report about an orally administered colon-accumulating mitochondria-targeted drug delivery nanoplatform (M27-39@FA-MCNs), which was synthesized using the small peptide, M27-39, and folic acid (FA)-modified mesoporous carbon nanoparticles (FA-MCNs). The phenolic resin polymerized with phloroglucinol and formaldehyde (PF) was used for fabricating MCNs using a one-step soft-template method. Folic acid (FA) can be covalently combined with chitosan-modified MCNs to obtain FA-MCNs. The M27-39@FA-MCNs were stable with a spherical morphology and an average diameter of 129 nm. The cumulative release rate of M27-39@FA-MCNs in the artificial gastric fluid (pH = 1.2) and intestinal fluid (pH = 6.8) for 6 h was 87.77%. This nanoplatform maintains the advantages of both FA and MCNs to improve the bioactivity of M27-39 with high drug accumulation in colorectal tumor tissues and the ease of excretion, thus ameliorating its biosafety and targetability. Furthermore, M27-39@FA-MCNs induced tumor-cell apoptosis and inhibited tumor growth by disrupting mitochondrial energy metabolism and regulating the mitochondrial apoptosis signaling pathway and immune inflammatory response. Thus, such a mitochondria-targeting FA-modified nanoplatform based on mesoporous carbon and a bioactive peptide may provide a precise strategy for CRC treatment. STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE: In this study, we constructed an orally administered colon-accumulating mitochondria-targeted drug delivery nanoplatform (M27-39@FA-MCNs), which was synthesized using the small peptide (M27-39) and folic acid-modified mesoporous carbon nanoparticles (FA-MCNs). M27-39@FA-MCNs increased the targeting ability of M27-39 toward mitochondria and colon based on the properties of FA-MCNs; they also increased M27-39 accumulation and residence time in colon tumors. Oral administration of M27-39@FA-MCNs remarkably alleviated colorectal cancer (CRC) by targeting tumor cell mitochondria and interfering with the mitochondrial energy metabolism process, and inducing apoptosis related P53/Caspase-3 mitochondrial pathway activation. Therefore, M27-39@FA-MCNs may provide a safe and precise therapeutic strategy for CRC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jian Wang
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Bioactive Substances, School of Life Science and Biopharmaceutics, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, 280 Wai Huan Dong Road, Guangzhou Higher Education Mega Center, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Lun Zhang
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Bioactive Substances, School of Life Science and Biopharmaceutics, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, 280 Wai Huan Dong Road, Guangzhou Higher Education Mega Center, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Hui Xin
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Bioactive Substances, School of Life Science and Biopharmaceutics, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, 280 Wai Huan Dong Road, Guangzhou Higher Education Mega Center, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Ya Guo
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Bioactive Substances, School of Life Science and Biopharmaceutics, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, 280 Wai Huan Dong Road, Guangzhou Higher Education Mega Center, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Baokang Zhu
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Bioactive Substances, School of Life Science and Biopharmaceutics, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, 280 Wai Huan Dong Road, Guangzhou Higher Education Mega Center, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Liqian Su
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Bioactive Substances, School of Life Science and Biopharmaceutics, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, 280 Wai Huan Dong Road, Guangzhou Higher Education Mega Center, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Shanshan Wang
- Key Laboratory of the Ministry of Health for Research on Quality and Standardization of Biotech Products, National Institutes for Food and Drug Control, Beijing 102629, China
| | - Jiali Zeng
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Bioactive Substances, School of Life Science and Biopharmaceutics, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, 280 Wai Huan Dong Road, Guangzhou Higher Education Mega Center, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Qingru Chen
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Bioactive Substances, School of Life Science and Biopharmaceutics, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, 280 Wai Huan Dong Road, Guangzhou Higher Education Mega Center, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Rui Deng
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Bioactive Substances, School of Life Science and Biopharmaceutics, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, 280 Wai Huan Dong Road, Guangzhou Higher Education Mega Center, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Ziyan Wang
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Bioactive Substances, School of Life Science and Biopharmaceutics, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, 280 Wai Huan Dong Road, Guangzhou Higher Education Mega Center, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Jie Wang
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Bioactive Substances, School of Life Science and Biopharmaceutics, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, 280 Wai Huan Dong Road, Guangzhou Higher Education Mega Center, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Xiaobao Jin
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Bioactive Substances, School of Life Science and Biopharmaceutics, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, 280 Wai Huan Dong Road, Guangzhou Higher Education Mega Center, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Shuiqing Gui
- Intensive Care Unit, Shenzhen Second People's Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital of Shenzhen University, Shenzhen 518031, China.
| | - Yinghua Xu
- Key Laboratory of the Ministry of Health for Research on Quality and Standardization of Biotech Products, National Institutes for Food and Drug Control, Beijing 102629, China.
| | - Xuemei Lu
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Pharmaceutical Bioactive Substances, School of Life Science and Biopharmaceutics, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, 280 Wai Huan Dong Road, Guangzhou Higher Education Mega Center, Guangzhou 510006, China; Central Laboratory of Shenzhen Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Shenzhen 518055, China.
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Liu Y, Qi X. Anti-inflammatory and Antioxidant Effect of Lycoperoside H against the 1,2-Dimethyl Hydrazine (DMH) Induced Colorectal Cancer in Rats. J Oleo Sci 2022; 71:1021-1029. [PMID: 35691840 DOI: 10.5650/jos.ess22003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
In many developed countries, colorectal cancer is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality and its etiology is familiar to be a grouping of nutritional and environmental factors, less physical activity and hereditary factors. Lycoperoside H (LH) is a steroidal alkaloid saponin commonly found in the tomato and exhibited the various pharmacological effects. The aim of the current study was to scrutinized the anticancer effect of LH against 1,2‑Dimethyl Hydrazine (DMH) induced colorectal cancer (CRC) in rats. Subcutaneous injection of DMH (20 mg/kg) was used for induction the CRC and rats were received the oral administration of LH (10, 20 and 40 mg/kg) for 16 weeks. At the end of the investigation, the tumor incidence, weight, and body weight were calculated. Antioxidant enzymes (phase I and II), inflammatory cytokines, lipids and inflammatory markers were all examined. DMH induced rats exhibited the increased tumor incidence, reduced body weight and LH treatment significantly (p < 0.001) suppressed the tumor incidence, and enhanced the body weight. LH treatment significantly (p < 0.001) boosted the level of SOD, GPx, GSH, CAT and suppressed the MDA level. LH treatment suppressed the level cytochrome b5 (Cyto b5), cytochrome P450 (Cyto P450) and boosted the level of glutathione S‑transferase (GST), uridine diphosphoglucuronyltransferase (UDP‑GT) in the liver and colon tissue. LH also decreased the level of cytokines includes interleukin-6 (IL-6), interleukin-1β (IL-1β), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α); inflammatory mediators like Inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2), prostaglandin (PGE2) and nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) in the hepatic and colon tissue. We can conclude that LH revealed the anticancer effect against the DMH induced CRC via suppression of inflammation and oxidative stress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yongjian Liu
- Department of Interventional Therapy, The First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University
| | - Xin Qi
- Digestive Endoscopy Center, Dalian Central Hospital
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Zimbro ( Juniperus communis L.) as a Promising Source of Bioactive Compounds and Biomedical Activities: A Review on Recent Trends. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23063197. [PMID: 35328621 PMCID: PMC8952110 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23063197] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2022] [Revised: 03/11/2022] [Accepted: 03/15/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Plant-derived products and their extracted compounds have been used in folk medicine since early times. Zimbro or common juniper (Juniperus communis) is traditionally used to treat renal suppression, acute and chronic cystitis, bladder catarrh, albuminuria, leucorrhea, and amenorrhea. These uses are mainly attributed to its bioactive composition, which is very rich in phenolics, terpenoids, organic acids, alkaloids, and volatile compounds. In the last few years, several studies have analyzed the huge potential of this evergreen shrub, describing a wide range of activities with relevance in different biomedical discipline areas, namely antimicrobial potential against human pathogens and foodborne microorganisms, notorious antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities, antidiabetic, antihypercholesterolemic and antihyperlipidemic effects, and neuroprotective action, as well as antiproliferative ability against cancer cells and the ability to activate inductive hepato-, renal- and gastroprotective mechanisms. Owing to these promising activities, extracts and bioactive compounds of juniper could be useful for the development of new pharmacological applications in the treatment of several acute and chronic human diseases.
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9
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Gonçalves AC, Costa AR, Flores-Félix JD, Falcão A, Alves G, Silva LR. Anti-Inflammatory and Antiproliferative Properties of Sweet Cherry Phenolic-Rich Extracts. Molecules 2022; 27:268. [PMID: 35011501 PMCID: PMC8747005 DOI: 10.3390/molecules27010268] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2021] [Revised: 12/28/2021] [Accepted: 12/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Cherries have largely been investigated due to their high content in phenolics in order to fully explore their health-promoting properties. Therefore, this work aimed to assess, for the first time, the anti-inflammatory potential of phenolic-targeted fractions of the Saco cherry, using RAW 264.7 macrophages stimulated with lipopolysaccharide. Additionally, the cytotoxic effects on gastric adenocarcinoma (AGS), neuroblastoma (SH-SY5Y) and normal human dermal fibroblast (NHDF) cells were evaluated, as well as the ability to protect these cellular models against induced oxidative stress. The obtained data revealed that cherry fractions can interfere with cellular nitric oxide (NO) levels by capturing NO radicals and decreasing inducible nitric oxide synthase and cyclooxygenase-2 expression. Furthermore, it was observed that all cherry fractions exhibited dose-dependent cytotoxicity against AGS cells, presenting cytotoxic selectivity for these cancer cells when compared to SH-SY5Y and NHDF cells. Regarding their capacity to protect cancer cells against oxidative injury, in most assays, the total cherry extract was the most effective. Overall, this study reinforces the idea that sweet cherries can be incorporated into new pharmaceutical products, smart foods and nutraceuticals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana C. Gonçalves
- CICS-UBI—Health Sciences Research Centre, University of Beira Interior, 6201-001 Covilhã, Portugal; (A.C.G.); (A.R.C.); (J.D.F.-F.); (G.A.)
- CIBIT—Coimbra Institute for Biomedical Imaging and Translational Research, University of Coimbra, 3004-531 Coimbra, Portugal;
| | - Ana R. Costa
- CICS-UBI—Health Sciences Research Centre, University of Beira Interior, 6201-001 Covilhã, Portugal; (A.C.G.); (A.R.C.); (J.D.F.-F.); (G.A.)
| | - José D. Flores-Félix
- CICS-UBI—Health Sciences Research Centre, University of Beira Interior, 6201-001 Covilhã, Portugal; (A.C.G.); (A.R.C.); (J.D.F.-F.); (G.A.)
| | - Amílcar Falcão
- CIBIT—Coimbra Institute for Biomedical Imaging and Translational Research, University of Coimbra, 3004-531 Coimbra, Portugal;
- Laboratory of Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Coimbra, 3004-531 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Gilberto Alves
- CICS-UBI—Health Sciences Research Centre, University of Beira Interior, 6201-001 Covilhã, Portugal; (A.C.G.); (A.R.C.); (J.D.F.-F.); (G.A.)
| | - Luís R. Silva
- CICS-UBI—Health Sciences Research Centre, University of Beira Interior, 6201-001 Covilhã, Portugal; (A.C.G.); (A.R.C.); (J.D.F.-F.); (G.A.)
- CPIRN-UDI/IPG, Center of Potential and Innovation of Natural Resources, Research Unit for Inland Development (UDI), Polytechnic Institute of Guarda, 6300-559 Guarda, Portugal
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Potential Activity of Abrantes Pollen Extract: Biochemical and Cellular Model Studies. Foods 2021; 10:foods10112804. [PMID: 34829085 PMCID: PMC8624898 DOI: 10.3390/foods10112804] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2021] [Revised: 11/01/2021] [Accepted: 11/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The aim of this study was to determine the grain composition and (poly)phenolic profile of pollen from Abrantes (Portugal), as well as its antioxidative and antidiabetic properties, and abilities to protect human erythrocytes against induced hemoglobin oxidation, lipid peroxidation, and hemolysis. The phytochemical profile of the Abrantes’ bee pollen revealed twenty phenolic compounds, identified by high-performance liquid chromatography with electrospray ionization mass spectrometry coupled with photodiode array detection. Among them, quercetin derivatives were the most abundant. Concerning the biological potential, the pollen extract showed notable capacity for 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl, nitric oxide, and superoxide radicals, as well as for inhibition of α-glucosidase action, and protection of human erythrocytes against oxidative damage. Non-cytotoxic effects regarding the NHDF normal cell line, human adenocarcinoma Caco-2, and human liver HepG2 cells were observed. The results obtained contributed to further research on modes of action related to oxidative damage and metabolic health problems, to generate deeper knowledge of potential health-promoting effects to develop novel pharmaceutical drugs, nutraceuticals, and dietary supplements.
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Gonçalves AC, Flores-Félix JD, Costa AR, Falcão A, Alves G, Silva LR. Hepatoprotective Effects of Sweet Cherry Extracts (cv. Saco). Foods 2021; 10:foods10112623. [PMID: 34828905 PMCID: PMC8621173 DOI: 10.3390/foods10112623] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2021] [Revised: 10/26/2021] [Accepted: 10/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Cancer is the second cause of death worldwide. Among cancers, hepatocellular carcinoma is one of the most prevalent. Evidence indicates that the daily consumption of fruits and vegetables can prevent the onset of various cancers due to the presence of bioactive compounds. Sweet cherries are known for their richness in phenolics, including anthocyanins, which are the major constituents, and presumably, the key contributors to their biological activity. Therefore, the present study aimed to evaluate the effects of three different cherry fractions on human hepatocellular carcinoma (HepG2) cells viability and effectiveness to improve the redox status of these cells under oxidative damage induced by nitric oxide radicals and hydrogen peroxide. Phenolic characterization of fractions was performed by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. The obtained results indicated that enriched phenolic fractions of sweet cherries (cv. Saco, can impair cell viability and suppress cells growth after 72 h of exposure, promoting necrosis at the highest tested concentrations (>50 µg/mL). Additionally, fractions also showed the capacity to protect these cells against oxidative injury by capturing radicals before they can attack cells’ membrane and by modulating reactive oxygen and nitrogen species generation, as demonstrated by bioinformatic tools.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana C. Gonçalves
- CICS–UBI—Health Sciences Research Centre, University of Beira Interior, 6201-506 Covilhã, Portugal; (A.C.G.); (J.D.F.-F.); (A.R.C.); (G.A.)
- CIBIT—Coimbra Institute for Biomedical Imaging and Translational Research, University of Coimbra, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal;
| | - José D. Flores-Félix
- CICS–UBI—Health Sciences Research Centre, University of Beira Interior, 6201-506 Covilhã, Portugal; (A.C.G.); (J.D.F.-F.); (A.R.C.); (G.A.)
| | - Ana R. Costa
- CICS–UBI—Health Sciences Research Centre, University of Beira Interior, 6201-506 Covilhã, Portugal; (A.C.G.); (J.D.F.-F.); (A.R.C.); (G.A.)
| | - Amílcar Falcão
- CIBIT—Coimbra Institute for Biomedical Imaging and Translational Research, University of Coimbra, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal;
- Laboratory of Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Coimbra, 3000-548 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Gilberto Alves
- CICS–UBI—Health Sciences Research Centre, University of Beira Interior, 6201-506 Covilhã, Portugal; (A.C.G.); (J.D.F.-F.); (A.R.C.); (G.A.)
| | - Luís R. Silva
- CICS–UBI—Health Sciences Research Centre, University of Beira Interior, 6201-506 Covilhã, Portugal; (A.C.G.); (J.D.F.-F.); (A.R.C.); (G.A.)
- CPIRN-UDI/IPG—Centro de Potencial e Inovação em Recursos Naturais, Unidade de Investigação para o Desenvolvimento do Interior do Instituto Politécnico da Guarda, 6300-559 Guarda, Portugal
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +351-275-329-077
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