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Li X, Song J, Tan J, Zhang D, Guan Y, Geng F, Yang M, Pei J, Ma H. "Plant Golden" C. sativus: Qualitative and quantitative analysis of major components in stigmas and petals and their biological activity in vitro. J Pharm Biomed Anal 2024; 243:116115. [PMID: 38513497 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpba.2024.116115] [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: 01/02/2024] [Revised: 02/19/2024] [Accepted: 03/15/2024] [Indexed: 03/23/2024]
Abstract
Crocus sativus L. (C. sativus) has its stigma as the main valuable part used. With extremely low production and high prices, stigma is considered a scarce resource. As a result, its petals, considered as by-products, are often discarded, leading to significant waste. We developed a UPLC-Q-Orbitrap HRMS method for qualitative analysis of stigmas and petals and a UHPLC-QQQ-MS/MS method for simultaneous quantification of 9 characteristic active compounds for the first time, and compared their biological activity in vitro. The results indicated that a total of 63 compounds were identified in the petals and stigmas. The content of flavonoids in the petals was significantly superior to that in the stigma, and the content of quercetin in the petals was 50 times higher than that in the stigma. The results of the in vitro evaluation of biological activity indicated that both the petals (•OH: IC50=39.70 mg/mL; DPPH: IC50=28.37 mg/mL; ABTS: IC50=0.9868 mg/mL)and stigma (•OH: IC50=34.41 mg/mL; DPPH: IC50=38.99 mg/mL; ABTS: IC50=3.194 mg/mL)demonstrated comparable antioxidant activities. However, the tyrosinase inhibitory activity in petals (IC50=21.17 mg/mL) was weaker than that in stigma(IC50=1.488 mg/mL). This study provides a fast, reliable, and efficient analytical method that can be used for the quality assessment of petals as a natural resource and its related products in the food and pharmaceutical industries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xue Li
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, Pharmacy School, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu 611137, China
| | - Jiao Song
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, Pharmacy School, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu 611137, China
| | - Jin Tan
- Gooddoctor Pharmaceutical Group Co.,Ltd., Chengdu, Sichuan 610073, China
| | - Dingkun Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, Pharmacy School, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu 611137, China
| | - Yongmei Guan
- State key Laboratory of Innovation Medicine and High Efficiency and Energy Saving Pharmaceutical Equipment, Jiangxi University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Nanchang 330004, China
| | - Funeng Geng
- Gooddoctor Pharmaceutical Group Co.,Ltd., Chengdu, Sichuan 610073, China
| | - Ming Yang
- State key Laboratory of Innovation Medicine and High Efficiency and Energy Saving Pharmaceutical Equipment, Jiangxi University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Nanchang 330004, China
| | - Jin Pei
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, Pharmacy School, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu 611137, China.
| | - Hongyan Ma
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, Pharmacy School, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu 611137, China.
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Mir RA, Tyagi A, Hussain SJ, Almalki MA, Zeyad MT, Deshmukh R, Ali S. Saffron, a Potential Bridge between Nutrition and Disease Therapeutics: Global Health Challenges and Therapeutic Opportunities. PLANTS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2024; 13:1467. [PMID: 38891276 PMCID: PMC11174376 DOI: 10.3390/plants13111467] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2024] [Revised: 04/12/2024] [Accepted: 05/23/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024]
Abstract
Plants are an important source of essential bioactive compounds that not only have a beneficial role in human health and nutrition but also act as drivers for shaping gut microbiome. However, the mechanism of their functional attributes is not fully understood despite their significance. One such important plant is Crocus sativus, also known as saffron, which possesses huge medicinal, nutritional, and industrial applications like food and cosmetics. The importance of this plant is grossly attributed to its incredible bioactive constituents such as crocins, crocetin, safranal, picrocrocin, and glycosides. These bioactive compounds possess a wide range of therapeutic activities against multiple human ailments. Since a huge number of studies have revealed negative unwanted side effects of modern-day drugs, the scientific communities at the global level are investigating a large number of medicinal plants to explore natural products as the best alternatives. Taken into consideration, the available research findings indicate that saffron has a huge scope to be further explored to establish alternative natural-product-based drugs for health benefits. In this review, we are providing an update on the role of bioactive compounds of saffron as therapeutic agents (human disorders and antimicrobial activity) and its nutritional values. We also highlighted the role of omics and metabolic engineering tools for increasing the content of key saffron bioactive molecules for its mass production. Finally, pre-clinical and clinical studies seem to be necessary to establish its therapeutic potential against human diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rakeeb Ahmad Mir
- Department of Biotechnology, School of Life Sciences, Central University of Kashmir, Ganderbal 191201, India
| | - Anshika Tyagi
- Department of Biotechnology, Yeungnam University, Gyeongsan 38541, Republic of Korea;
| | - Sofi Javed Hussain
- Department of Botany, Central University of Kashmir, Ganderbal 191201, India;
| | - Mohammed A. Almalki
- Department of Biological Sciences, College of Science, King Faisal University, Al-Ahsa 31982, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mohammad Tarique Zeyad
- Department of Agricultural Microbiology, Faculty of Agriculture Sciences, Aligarh Muslim University, Aligarh 202002, India;
| | - Rupesh Deshmukh
- Department of Biotechnology, Central University of Haryana, Mahendragarh 123031, India;
| | - Sajad Ali
- Department of Biotechnology, Yeungnam University, Gyeongsan 38541, Republic of Korea;
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Yan X, Zhao S, Feng X, Li X, Zhou Q, Chen Q. Effects of Crocus sativus on glycemic control and cardiometabolic parameters among patients with metabolic syndrome and related disorders: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. Nutr Metab (Lond) 2024; 21:28. [PMID: 38796446 PMCID: PMC11127410 DOI: 10.1186/s12986-024-00806-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2024] [Accepted: 05/13/2024] [Indexed: 05/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Metabolic syndrome (MetS) is a cluster of clinical syndromes that is closely associated with an elevated risk of developing atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease. In a series of animal experiments and clinical trials, crocus sativus and its component crocin have demonstrated promising hypoglycemic effects. However, there is currently insufficient evidence regarding their impact on cardiometabolic parameters. Our study aimed to assess the impact of Crocus sativus and crocin on glycemic control in individuals with metabolic syndrome and associated disorders, as well as their potential effects on improving cardiometabolic parameters. We searched Cochrane Library, PubMed, Embase, and Web of Science databases to ascertain the pertinent randomized controlled trials (RCTs) until December 30, 2023. Q-test and I2 statistics were utilized to evaluate heterogeneity among the included studies. Data were merged using a random-effects model and presented as (WMD) with a 95% confidence interval (CI). The current comprehensive review and meta-analysis, encompassing 13 RCTs involving a total of 840 patients diagnosed with metabolic syndrome and associated disorders, demonstrates that Crocus sativus was superior to placebo on Hemoglobin A1c(HbA1c) (WMD: -0.31;95% CI [-0.44,-0.19]. P = 0.002) and systolic blood pressure(SBP) (WMD:-7.49;95% CI [-11.67,-3.30]. P = 0.99) respectively. Moreover, Crocus sativus improved fasting blood glucose (FBG) (WMD:-7.25;95% CI [-11.82, -2.57]. P = 0.002) when used crocin and on other chronic diseases. Crocus sativus reduced the total cholesterol (TC) among the metabolic syndromepatients (WMD:-13.64;95%CI [-26.26, -1.03]. P = 0.03). We demonstrated that Crocus sativus exerts beneficial effects on glycemic control and cardiometabolic parameters in individuals with metabolic syndrome and related disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaodan Yan
- Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 610032, China
| | - Shuyuan Zhao
- Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 610032, China
| | - Xue Feng
- Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 610032, China
| | - Xinrui Li
- Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 610032, China
| | - Qian Zhou
- Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 610032, China
| | - Qiu Chen
- Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 610032, China.
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Han S, Cao Y, Wu X, Xu J, Nie Z, Qiu Y. New horizons for the study of saffron (Crocus sativus L.) and its active ingredients in the management of neurological and psychiatric disorders: A systematic review of clinical evidence and mechanisms. Phytother Res 2024; 38:2276-2302. [PMID: 38424688 DOI: 10.1002/ptr.8110] [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: 07/04/2023] [Revised: 11/27/2023] [Accepted: 12/16/2023] [Indexed: 03/02/2024]
Abstract
Saffron (Crocus sativus), as an herbal medicine, has been extensively investigated for treating neurological and psychiatric disorders. This systematic review aimed to assess the overall effects of saffron on cognition, depression, anxiety, sleep disorders, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). Relevant randomized controlled trials (RCTs) were identified by searching PubMed/Medline, Web of Science, and Clinical Trials databases up to June 2023 according to search terms and inclusion criteria. The participants were either healthy or suffering from some diseases, including neurological and psychiatric disorders, and consumed saffron or its extracts as an intervention. The risk of bias was assessed according to the Cochrane guidelines, and the PRISMA statement was followed. The meta-analysis was performed using RevMan and STATA software. A random-effects or fixed-effects model was used to calculate the pooled effect sizes. Forty-six RCTs were enrolled, and the duration of these trials ranged from 4 to 48 weeks with saffron or its extracts, both alone or in combination with conventional drugs. Saffron was more effective than placebo in improving cognition, depression with an overall effect size of -4.26 (95% CI: -5.76, -2.77), anxiety of -3.75 (95% CI: -5.83, -1.67), and sleep disorders of -1.91 (95% CI: -2.88, -0.93). Saffron was non-inferior to conventional drugs for treating cognitive disorders, depression, anxiety, ADHD, and OCD, and it exhibited good tolerance with few side effects. Saffron may exert protective roles for neurological and psychiatric disorders and represents a relatively favorable and safe treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shufen Han
- Department of Nutrition and Toxicology, School of Public Health, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, People's Republic of China
| | - Yifei Cao
- Department of Nutrition and Toxicology, School of Public Health, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, People's Republic of China
| | - Xingrong Wu
- Male Department of General Psychiatry, Shanxi Provincial Mental Health Center and Taiyuan Psychiatric Hospital, Taiyuan, Shanxi, People's Republic of China
| | - Jiaoyang Xu
- Department of Nutrition and Toxicology, School of Public Health, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, People's Republic of China
| | - Zizheng Nie
- Department of Nutrition and Toxicology, School of Public Health, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, People's Republic of China
| | - Yue Qiu
- Department of Nutrition and Toxicology, School of Public Health, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, People's Republic of China
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Kim CY, Ko K, Choi SH, Jo M, Kim J, Yoon S, Yi IJ, Morán-Valero MI, Kwon MY, Sohn J, Yi SS. Effects of Saffron Extract (Affron ®) with 100 mg/kg and 200 mg/kg on Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Adrenal Axis and Stress Resilience in Chronic Mild Stress-Induced Depression in Wistar Rats. Nutrients 2023; 15:4855. [PMID: 38068714 PMCID: PMC10707924 DOI: 10.3390/nu15234855] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2023] [Revised: 11/06/2023] [Accepted: 11/17/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Stress-related symptoms are a global concern, impacting millions of individuals, yet effective and safe treatments remain scarce. Although multiple studies have highlighted the stress- alleviating properties of saffron extract, the underlying mechanisms remain unclear. This study employs the unpredictable chronic mild stress (CMS) animal model to investigate the impact of a standardized saffron extract, Affron® (AFN), on hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis regulation and neuroplasticity in Wistar rats following repeated oral administration. The research evaluates AFN's effects on various stress-related parameters, including hypothalamic gene expression, stress hormone levels, and the sucrose preference test. In animals subjected to continuous unpredictable CMS, repetitive administration of AFN at doses of 100 mg/kg and 200 mg/kg effectively normalized HPA axis dysregulation and enhanced neuroplasticity. Increased concentrations of AFN demonstrated greater efficacy. Following AFN oral administration, adrenocorticotropic and corticosterone hormone levels exhibited significant or nearly significant reductions in comparison to subjects exposed to stress only. These changes align with the alleviation of stress and the normalization of the HPA axis. These findings elucidate AFN's role in stress mitigation, affirm its health benefits, validate its potential as a treatment for stress-related symptoms, confirm its physiological effectiveness, and emphasize its therapeutic promise.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chae-Young Kim
- BK21 Four Program, Department of Medical Science, Soonchunhyang University, Asan 31538, Republic of Korea;
| | - Kayoung Ko
- Department of Biomedical Laboratory Science, College of Medical Sciences, Soonchunhyang University, Asan 31538, Republic of Korea; (K.K.); (S.-H.C.); (M.J.)
| | - Seo-Hee Choi
- Department of Biomedical Laboratory Science, College of Medical Sciences, Soonchunhyang University, Asan 31538, Republic of Korea; (K.K.); (S.-H.C.); (M.J.)
| | - Miri Jo
- Department of Biomedical Laboratory Science, College of Medical Sciences, Soonchunhyang University, Asan 31538, Republic of Korea; (K.K.); (S.-H.C.); (M.J.)
| | - Jinhye Kim
- Central Lab., iCONNECTOME Co., Ltd., Cheonan 31168, Republic of Korea; (J.K.); (S.Y.)
| | - Sunmi Yoon
- Central Lab., iCONNECTOME Co., Ltd., Cheonan 31168, Republic of Korea; (J.K.); (S.Y.)
| | - Isaac Jinwon Yi
- Department of Cognitive Science, University of California, San Diego, CA 92093, USA;
| | | | - Min-Young Kwon
- Hyundai Bioland Co., Ltd., Ansan 15407, Republic of Korea; (M.-Y.K.); (J.S.)
| | - Johann Sohn
- Hyundai Bioland Co., Ltd., Ansan 15407, Republic of Korea; (M.-Y.K.); (J.S.)
| | - Sun-Shin Yi
- BK21 Four Program, Department of Medical Science, Soonchunhyang University, Asan 31538, Republic of Korea;
- Department of Biomedical Laboratory Science, College of Medical Sciences, Soonchunhyang University, Asan 31538, Republic of Korea; (K.K.); (S.-H.C.); (M.J.)
- Central Lab., iCONNECTOME Co., Ltd., Cheonan 31168, Republic of Korea; (J.K.); (S.Y.)
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Vitiello L, Capasso L, Cembalo G, De Pascale I, Imparato R, De Bernardo M. Herbal and Natural Treatments for the Management of the Glaucoma: An Update. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2023; 2023:3105251. [PMID: 38027044 PMCID: PMC10673672 DOI: 10.1155/2023/3105251] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2023] [Revised: 06/13/2023] [Accepted: 11/06/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023]
Abstract
Glaucoma causes the degeneration of the retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) and their axons, inducing a tissue reshaping that affects both the retina and the optic nerve head. Glaucoma care especially focuses on reducing intraocular pressure, a significant risk factor for progressive damage to the optic nerve. The use of natural treatments, such as herbs, vitamins, and minerals, is becoming increasingly popular today. While plants are a rich source of novel biologically active compounds, only a small percentage of them have been phytochemically examined and evaluated for their medicinal potential. It is necessary for eye care professionals to inform their glaucoma patients about the therapy, protection, and efficacy of commonly used herbal medicines, considering the widespread use of herbal medicines. The purpose of this review is to examine evidence related to the most widely used herbal medicines for the management and treatment of glaucoma, to better understand the potential benefits of these natural compounds as supplementary therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Livio Vitiello
- Eye Unit, “Luigi Curto” Hospital, Azienda Sanitaria Locale Salerno, Polla, 84035 Salerno, Italy
| | - Luigi Capasso
- Eye Unit, “Ospedale del Mare” Hospital, Azienda Sanitaria Locale Napoli 1 Centro, Naples 80147, Italy
| | - Giovanni Cembalo
- Eye Unit, Department of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry “Scuola Medica Salernitana”, University of Salerno, Baronissi, 84081 Salerno, Italy
| | - Ilaria De Pascale
- Eye Unit, “Ramazzini” Hospital, Azienda Unità Sanitaria Locale Modena, Carpi 41012, Italy
| | - Roberto Imparato
- Eye Unit, Azienda Unità Sanitaria Locale Valle d'Aosta, Aosta 11100, Italy
| | - Maddalena De Bernardo
- Eye Unit, Department of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry “Scuola Medica Salernitana”, University of Salerno, Baronissi, 84081 Salerno, Italy
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Adedara IA, Atanda OE, Sant'Anna Monteiro C, Rosemberg DB, Aschner M, Farombi EO, Rocha JBT, Furian AF, Emanuelli T. Cellular and molecular mechanisms of aflatoxin B 1-mediated neurotoxicity: The therapeutic role of natural bioactive compounds. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2023; 237:116869. [PMID: 37567382 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2023.116869] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2023] [Revised: 08/05/2023] [Accepted: 08/08/2023] [Indexed: 08/13/2023]
Abstract
Aflatoxin B1 (AFB1), a dietary toxin from the mold Aspergillus species, is well acknowledged to elicit extra-hepatic toxicity in both animals and humans. The neurotoxicity of AFB1 has become a global public health concern. Contemporary research on how AFB1 enters the brain to elicit neuronal dysregulation leading to noxious neurological outcomes has increased greatly in recent years. The current review discusses several neurotoxic outcomes and susceptible targets of AFB1 toxicity at cellular, molecular and genetic levels. Specifically, neurotoxicity studies involving the use of brain homogenates, neuroblastoma cell line IMR-32, human brain microvascular endothelial cells, microglial cells, and astrocytes, as well as mammalian and non-mammalian models to unravel the mechanisms associated with AFB1 exposure are highlighted. Further, some naturally occurring bioactive compounds with compelling therapeutic effects on AFB1-induced neurotoxicity are reviewed. In conclusion, available data from literature highlight AFB1 as a neurotoxin and its possible pathological contribution to neurological disorders. Further mechanistic studies aimed at discovering and developing effective therapeutics for AFB1 neurotoxicity is warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isaac A Adedara
- Department of Food Science and Technology, Center of Rural Sciences, Federal University of Santa Maria, Camobi, 97105-900 Santa Maria, RS, Brazil; Drug Metabolism and Toxicology Research Laboratories, Department of Biochemistry, College of Medicine, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Nigeria.
| | - Oluwadarasimi E Atanda
- Human Toxicology Program, Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, 52242, USA
| | - Camila Sant'Anna Monteiro
- Department of Food Science and Technology, Center of Rural Sciences, Federal University of Santa Maria, Camobi, 97105-900 Santa Maria, RS, Brazil
| | - Denis B Rosemberg
- Laboratory of Experimental Neuropsychobiology, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Federal University of Santa Maria, Camobi, 97105-900 Santa Maria, RS, Brazil
| | - Michael Aschner
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology; Albert Einstein College of Medicine Forchheimer 209; 1300 Morris Park Avenue, Bronx, NY 10461, USA
| | - Ebenezer O Farombi
- Drug Metabolism and Toxicology Research Laboratories, Department of Biochemistry, College of Medicine, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Nigeria
| | - Joao B T Rocha
- Department of Biochemical and Molecular Biology, Federal University of Santa Maria, 97105-900, Santa Maria, RS, Brazil
| | - Ana Flávia Furian
- Department of Food Science and Technology, Center of Rural Sciences, Federal University of Santa Maria, Camobi, 97105-900 Santa Maria, RS, Brazil
| | - Tatiana Emanuelli
- Department of Food Science and Technology, Center of Rural Sciences, Federal University of Santa Maria, Camobi, 97105-900 Santa Maria, RS, Brazil
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Ronsisvalle S, Panico A, Santonocito D, Siciliano EA, Sipala F, Montenegro L, Puglia C. Evaluation of Crocin Content and In Vitro Antioxidant and Anti-Glycation Activity of Different Saffron Extracts. PLANTS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2023; 12:3606. [PMID: 37896069 PMCID: PMC10610346 DOI: 10.3390/plants12203606] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2023] [Revised: 10/09/2023] [Accepted: 10/17/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023]
Abstract
Crocin, a glycoside carotenoid that exhibits several health benefits, is mainly obtained from saffron (Crocus sativus L.), whose quality and content of phytochemicals can be strongly affected by environmental conditions. Therefore, in this work, the crocin content and in vitro antioxidant activity of saffron extracts obtained from three different varieties (Greek, Sicilian, and Iranian saffron) were assessed. Crocin content in saffron extracts was quantified via ultra-performance liquid chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry. The antioxidant activity of saffron extracts was evaluated using the oxygen radical absorbance capacity (ORAC) assay and nitric oxide (NO) radical scavenging test. The Maillard reaction was used to assess anti-glycation activity. Although the Sicilian and Iranian saffron extracts contained higher amounts of crocin (128 ± 6 ng/mL and 126 ± 4 ng/mL, respectively) compared to the Greek extracts (111 ± 2 ng/mL), ORAC values (50.9 ± 0.5) and % NO inhibition (35.2 ± 0.2) were higher for the Greek variety, which displayed a total phenolic content about two-fold greater than that of the other two extracts. Sicilian and Greek saffron had similar anti-glycation activities, while Iranian saffron was less effective. These results suggest that the antioxidant activity of saffron extracts could be ascribed to their naturally occurring complex mixture of phytochemicals, deserving further investigation as supplements to prevent pathological conditions induced by radical species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simone Ronsisvalle
- Department of Drug and Health Sciences, University of Catania, Viale Andrea Doria n°6, 95125 Catania, Italy; (S.R.); (A.P.); (D.S.); (E.A.S.); (F.S.); (C.P.)
| | - Annamaria Panico
- Department of Drug and Health Sciences, University of Catania, Viale Andrea Doria n°6, 95125 Catania, Italy; (S.R.); (A.P.); (D.S.); (E.A.S.); (F.S.); (C.P.)
| | - Debora Santonocito
- Department of Drug and Health Sciences, University of Catania, Viale Andrea Doria n°6, 95125 Catania, Italy; (S.R.); (A.P.); (D.S.); (E.A.S.); (F.S.); (C.P.)
- NANOMED-Research Center on Nanomedicine and Pharmaceutical Nanotechnology, University of Catania, 95125 Catania, Italy
| | - Edy Angela Siciliano
- Department of Drug and Health Sciences, University of Catania, Viale Andrea Doria n°6, 95125 Catania, Italy; (S.R.); (A.P.); (D.S.); (E.A.S.); (F.S.); (C.P.)
| | - Federica Sipala
- Department of Drug and Health Sciences, University of Catania, Viale Andrea Doria n°6, 95125 Catania, Italy; (S.R.); (A.P.); (D.S.); (E.A.S.); (F.S.); (C.P.)
| | - Lucia Montenegro
- Department of Drug and Health Sciences, University of Catania, Viale Andrea Doria n°6, 95125 Catania, Italy; (S.R.); (A.P.); (D.S.); (E.A.S.); (F.S.); (C.P.)
- NANOMED-Research Center on Nanomedicine and Pharmaceutical Nanotechnology, University of Catania, 95125 Catania, Italy
| | - Carmelo Puglia
- Department of Drug and Health Sciences, University of Catania, Viale Andrea Doria n°6, 95125 Catania, Italy; (S.R.); (A.P.); (D.S.); (E.A.S.); (F.S.); (C.P.)
- NANOMED-Research Center on Nanomedicine and Pharmaceutical Nanotechnology, University of Catania, 95125 Catania, Italy
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Liu H, Cheng H, Wang H, Wang Q, Yuan J. Crocin improves the renal autophagy in rat experimental membranous nephropathy via regulating the SIRT1/Nrf2/HO-1 signaling pathway. Ren Fail 2023; 45:2253924. [PMID: 37724538 PMCID: PMC10512763 DOI: 10.1080/0886022x.2023.2253924] [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: 05/19/2023] [Accepted: 08/25/2023] [Indexed: 09/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Membranous nephropathy (MN) is a glomerular disease. Crocin is isolated from saffron and gardenia. Its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-hyperlipidemic, anti-atherosclerotic, anti-tumor, free-radical scavenging and neuroprotective activities have been well established. We investigated the biological functions of crocin and its related mechanisms in MN. We established an experimental passive Heymann nephritis (PHN) rat model induced by anti-Fx1A antiserum. The rats were divided into sham, sham + crocin, PHN, PHN + crocin, and PHN + enalapril groups. Blood samples and kidneys of rats were collected for estimation of biochemical parameters in serum and oxidative stress indicators in kidney tissues. Histopathological changes of renal tissues were evaluated by hematoxylin and eosin, periodic acid-Schiff (PAS) and Masson staining. The podocyte number was estimated by immunohistochemistry staining of Wilms tumor type 1 (WT1). The deposition of rat anti-rabbit IgG antibodies, complement C3 and C5b-9 was detected by immunofluorescence staining. Western blotting was performed to measure the levels of Sirtuin 1 (Sirt1), nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2), heme oxygenase 1 (HO-1) and apoptosis-related proteins. The total cholesterol, triglycerides, creatinine, blood urea nitrogen, urine volume and urine albumin of PMN rats were significantly reduced by crocin. Additionally, crocin attenuated the renal histopathological changes. Moreover, the oxidative stress damage and podocyte loss and immune injury were relieved by crocin in PHN rats. Mechanistically, crocin administration activated the Sirt1/Nrf2/HO-1 pathways. The results provide a scientific basis that crocin could alleviate MN by inhibiting immune injury and podocyte damage through activating the Sirt1/Nrf2/HO-1 pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongyan Liu
- Department of Nephrology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Hong Cheng
- Renal Division, Hubei Provincial Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, The Affiliated Hospital of Hubei University of Chinese Medicine, Wuhan, China
| | - Hongyun Wang
- The First Clinical College, Hubei University of Chinese Medicine, Wuhan, China
| | - Qiong Wang
- The First Clinical College, Hubei University of Chinese Medicine, Wuhan, China
| | - Jun Yuan
- Department of Nephrology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
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Di Paolo M, Corsi F, Cerri C, Bisti S, Piano I, Gargini C. A Window to the Brain: The Retina to Monitor the Progression and Efficacy of Saffron Repron ® Pre-Treatment in an LPS Model of Neuroinflammation and Memory Impairment. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2023; 16:1307. [PMID: 37765115 PMCID: PMC10536337 DOI: 10.3390/ph16091307] [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: 07/13/2023] [Revised: 08/23/2023] [Accepted: 09/11/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
A mechanism shared by most neurodegenerative diseases, like Alzheimer's disease (AD) and Parkinson's disease (PD), is neuroinflammation. It has been shown to have a link between cognitive impairment and retinal function under neuroinflammatory conditions, confirming the essential role of the retina as a window to the brain. Here, we characterize a mouse model of LPS-induced neuroinflammation describing the parallel deterioration of both memory and visual function. Then, we demonstrate, using the Novel Object Recognition test (NOR) and electroretinogram (ERG) recordings, that preventive, chronic treatment with saffron Repron® is able to reduce the neuroinflammation process and prevent the impairment of both cognitive and visual function. The improvement in behavioral and visual function is confirmed by the pattern of expression of neuroinflammation-related genes and related proteins where pre-treatment with Repron® saffron presents a positive modulation compared with that obtained in animals treated with LPS alone. These results hold for retinal tissue and partially in the brain, where it appears that the onset of damage was delayed. This trend underlines the critical role of the retina as a most sensitive portion of the central nervous system to LPS-induced damage and could be used as a "sensor" for the early detection of neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mattia Di Paolo
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY 40202, USA;
- Istituto Nazionale di Biostrutture e Biosistemi (INBB), via Medaglie d’Oro 305, 00136 Roma, Italy; (F.C.); (S.B.); (C.G.)
| | - Francesca Corsi
- Istituto Nazionale di Biostrutture e Biosistemi (INBB), via Medaglie d’Oro 305, 00136 Roma, Italy; (F.C.); (S.B.); (C.G.)
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Pisa, Via Bonanno 6, 56126 Pisa, Italy;
| | - Chiara Cerri
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Pisa, Via Bonanno 6, 56126 Pisa, Italy;
| | - Silvia Bisti
- Istituto Nazionale di Biostrutture e Biosistemi (INBB), via Medaglie d’Oro 305, 00136 Roma, Italy; (F.C.); (S.B.); (C.G.)
| | - Ilaria Piano
- Istituto Nazionale di Biostrutture e Biosistemi (INBB), via Medaglie d’Oro 305, 00136 Roma, Italy; (F.C.); (S.B.); (C.G.)
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Pisa, Via Bonanno 6, 56126 Pisa, Italy;
| | - Claudia Gargini
- Istituto Nazionale di Biostrutture e Biosistemi (INBB), via Medaglie d’Oro 305, 00136 Roma, Italy; (F.C.); (S.B.); (C.G.)
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Pisa, Via Bonanno 6, 56126 Pisa, Italy;
- Interdepartmental Research Center “Nutraceuticals and Food for Health”, University of Pisa, 56126 Pisa, Italy
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De la Fuente Muñoz M, Román-Carmena M, Amor S, García-Villalón ÁL, Espinel AE, González-Hedström D, Granado García M. Effects of Supplementation with the Standardized Extract of Saffron (affron ®) on the Kynurenine Pathway and Melatonin Synthesis in Rats. Antioxidants (Basel) 2023; 12:1619. [PMID: 37627614 PMCID: PMC10451224 DOI: 10.3390/antiox12081619] [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: 07/17/2023] [Revised: 08/08/2023] [Accepted: 08/11/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Melatonin is a hormone that regulates sleep-wake cycles and is mainly synthesized in the pineal gland from tryptophan after its conversion into serotonin. Under normal conditions, less than 5% of tryptophan is reserved for the synthesis of serotonin and melatonin. The remaining 95% is metabolized in the liver through the kynurenine pathway. Increased levels of proinflammatory cytokines and cortisol increase the metabolism of tryptophan through the kynurenine pathway and reduce its availability for the synthesis of melatonin and serotonin, which may cause alterations in mood and sleep. The standardized saffron extract (affron®) has shown beneficial effects on mood and sleep disorders in humans, but the underlying mechanisms are not well understood. Thus, the aim of this work was to study the effects of affron® supplementation on the kynurenine pathway and the synthesis of melatonin in rats. For this purpose, adult male Wistar rats were supplemented for 7 days with 150 mg/kg of affron® or vehicle (2 mL/kg water) administered by gavage one hour before sleep. Affron® supplementation reduced body weight gain and increased the circulating levels of melatonin, testosterone, and c-HDL. Moreover, animals supplemented with affron® showed decreased serum levels of kynurenine, ET-1, and c-LDL. In the pineal gland, affron® reduced Il-6 expression and increased the expression of Aanat, the key enzyme for melatonin synthesis. In the liver, affron® administration decreased the mRNA levels of the enzymes of the kynurenine pathway Ido-2, Tod-2, and Aadat, as well as the gene expression of Il-1β and Tnf-α. Finally, rats treated with affron® showed increased mRNA levels of the antioxidant enzymes Ho-1, Sod-1, Gsr, and Gpx-3, both in the liver and in the pineal gland. In conclusion, affron® supplementation reduces kynurenine levels and promotes melatonin synthesis in rats, possibly through its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, making this extract a possible alternative for the treatment and/or prevention of mood and sleep disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mario De la Fuente Muñoz
- Departamento de Fisiología, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, 28029 Madrid, Spain; (M.D.l.F.M.); (M.R.-C.); (S.A.); (Á.L.G.-V.)
| | - Marta Román-Carmena
- Departamento de Fisiología, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, 28029 Madrid, Spain; (M.D.l.F.M.); (M.R.-C.); (S.A.); (Á.L.G.-V.)
| | - Sara Amor
- Departamento de Fisiología, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, 28029 Madrid, Spain; (M.D.l.F.M.); (M.R.-C.); (S.A.); (Á.L.G.-V.)
| | - Ángel Luís García-Villalón
- Departamento de Fisiología, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, 28029 Madrid, Spain; (M.D.l.F.M.); (M.R.-C.); (S.A.); (Á.L.G.-V.)
| | - Alberto E. Espinel
- Pharmactive Biotech Products S.L.U., Parque Científico de Madrid, Avenida del Doctor Severo Ochoa, 37 Local 4J, 28108 Alcobendas, Spain; (A.E.E.); (D.G.-H.)
| | - Daniel González-Hedström
- Pharmactive Biotech Products S.L.U., Parque Científico de Madrid, Avenida del Doctor Severo Ochoa, 37 Local 4J, 28108 Alcobendas, Spain; (A.E.E.); (D.G.-H.)
| | - Miriam Granado García
- Departamento de Fisiología, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, 28029 Madrid, Spain; (M.D.l.F.M.); (M.R.-C.); (S.A.); (Á.L.G.-V.)
- CIBER Fisiopatología de la Obesidad y Nutrición, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 28029 Madrid, Spain
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12
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Aissa R, Ibourki M, Ait Bouzid H, Bijla L, Oubannin S, Sakar EH, Jadouali S, Hermansyah A, Goh KW, Ming LC, Bouyahya A, Gharby S. Phytochemistry, quality control and medicinal uses of Saffron ( Crocus sativus L.): an updated review. J Med Life 2023; 16:822-836. [PMID: 37675158 PMCID: PMC10478662 DOI: 10.25122/jml-2022-0353] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2023] [Accepted: 04/17/2023] [Indexed: 09/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Saffron, botanically known as Crocus sativus L., is renowned as the world's most expensive spice and has been utilized in various fields since ancient times. Extensive scientific research has been conducted on Crocus sativus (C. sativus), focusing on its phytochemical composition, diverse applications, and biological activities. C. sativus phytochemicals consist mainly of three compounds, namely crocin, picrocrocin, and safranal, which are responsible for most of its properties. Saffron is rich in bioactive compounds, more than 150 of which have been isolated. Owing to its unique composition and properties, saffron is used in various fields, such as the food industry, perfumery, cosmetics, pharmaceutics, and medicine. However, the high economic value of saffron makes it susceptible to adulteration and various fraudulent practices. To deal with this issue, a number of methods and techniques have been developed to authenticate and determine adulterants in saffron. This paper presents a bibliometric study of saffron based on the Web of Science database, analyzing 3,735 studies published between 2000 and 2021. The study also examined author participation and collaboration networks among countries. Production, transformation, chemical composition, methods of adulteration detection, uses, and health properties of saffron are also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rabha Aissa
- Department of Bio-Industrial Engineering & Environment, Bioprocesses and Environment Team, Superior School of Technology, Ibn Zohr University, Agadir, Morocco
| | - Mohamed Ibourki
- Biotechnology, Analytical Sciences and Quality Control Team, Laboratory of Analysis Modeling, Engineering, Natural Substances and Environment, Polydisciplinary Faculty of Taroudant, University Ibn Zohr, Agadir, Morocco
| | - Hasna Ait Bouzid
- Biotechnology, Analytical Sciences and Quality Control Team, Laboratory of Analysis Modeling, Engineering, Natural Substances and Environment, Polydisciplinary Faculty of Taroudant, University Ibn Zohr, Agadir, Morocco
| | - Laila Bijla
- Biotechnology, Analytical Sciences and Quality Control Team, Laboratory of Analysis Modeling, Engineering, Natural Substances and Environment, Polydisciplinary Faculty of Taroudant, University Ibn Zohr, Agadir, Morocco
| | - Samira Oubannin
- Biotechnology, Analytical Sciences and Quality Control Team, Laboratory of Analysis Modeling, Engineering, Natural Substances and Environment, Polydisciplinary Faculty of Taroudant, University Ibn Zohr, Agadir, Morocco
| | - El Hassan Sakar
- Laboratory of Biology, Ecology, and Health, Faculty of Sciences, Abdelmalek Essaadi University, Tetouan, Morocco
| | - Simohamed Jadouali
- Laboratory of Biotechnology, Bioanalysis and Bioinformatics, Superior School of Technology, Sultan Moulay Slimane University, Khenifra, Morocco
| | - Andi Hermansyah
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, Faculty of Pharmacy, Universitas Airlangga, Surabaya, Indonesia
| | - Khang Wen Goh
- Faculty of Data Science and Information Technology, INTI International University, Nilai, Malaysia
| | - Long Chiau Ming
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, Faculty of Pharmacy, Universitas Airlangga, Surabaya, Indonesia
- School of Medical and Life Sciences, Sunway University, Sunway City, Malaysia
- PAPRSB Institute of Health Sciences, Universiti Brunei Darussalam, Gadong, Brunei Darussalam
| | - Abdelhakim Bouyahya
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, Mohammed V University, Rabat, Morocco
| | - Said Gharby
- Biotechnology, Analytical Sciences and Quality Control Team, Laboratory of Analysis Modeling, Engineering, Natural Substances and Environment, Polydisciplinary Faculty of Taroudant, University Ibn Zohr, Agadir, Morocco
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13
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Gunning Y, Davies KS, Kemsley EK. Authentication of saffron using 60 MHz 1H NMR spectroscopy. Food Chem 2023; 404:134649. [DOI: 10.1016/j.foodchem.2022.134649] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2022] [Revised: 10/11/2022] [Accepted: 10/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
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Aghighi K, Heidarpour M, Borji H. The anti-echinococcal activity of crocin in mice experimentally infected with Echinococcus granulosus. Exp Parasitol 2023; 246:108463. [PMID: 36649915 DOI: 10.1016/j.exppara.2023.108463] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2020] [Revised: 01/01/2023] [Accepted: 01/12/2023] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
Herbal preparations have good medicinal value for potential use as therapeutic agents in cystic echinococcosis. The efficiency of crocin in the case of cystic echinococcosis was investigated, and compared with that of albendazole, one of the few licensed anti-echinococcosis drugs that served as a positive control. Five months after infecting BALB/C mice with E. granulosus sensu lato the experimental group was divided into 7 subgroups containing 10 animals each: 1- Crocin 80 (80 mg/kg), 2- Crocin 40 (40 mg/kg), 3- Crocin 10 (10 mg/kg), 4- Albendazole (200 mg/kg), 5- Crocin 10 (10 mg/kg) +Albendazole (100 mg/kg), 6- Crocin 20 (20 mg/kg) +Albendazole (50 mg/kg), 7- the control (infected and untreated). After two weeks of daily treatment, significant reductions of cysts' weights, sizes, and total numbers concerning the control group were achieved by treatment with crocin 80, crocin 40, crocin 10, crocin 10 + ABZ100, crocin 20+ ABZ50 and ABZ200 (p < 0.05). Moreover, there was no difference concentrations of crocin and those treated with albendazole,. The concentration of bilirubin was higher in the control group than all treated groups with crocin, significantly. However, the ALT activity showeda significant decrease in the crocin 10 group, compared to the crocin 80, crocin 40, crocin 10 + ABZ100, crocin 20 + ABZ50, control groups (p < 0.05). Based on our results, the administration of crocin used at 10 mg/kg concentrations seems a hopeful applicant for the treatment of cystic echinococcosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karim Aghighi
- Department of Pathobiology, School of Veterinary Medicine, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Mohammad Heidarpour
- Department of Clinical Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Hassan Borji
- Department of Pathobiology, School of Veterinary Medicine, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Mashhad, Iran.
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15
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Karayakali M, Altinoz E, Elbe H, Koca O, Onal MO, Bicer Y, Demir M. Crocin treatment exerts anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidative effects in liver tissue damage of pinealectomized diabetic rats. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2023; 30:47670-47684. [PMID: 36746856 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-023-25766-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2022] [Accepted: 02/02/2023] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a chronic metabolic disorder with an increasing global prevalence that leads to significant morbidity and mortality. The liver plays a vital role in glycemic regulation in physiological and pathological conditions such as DM. Free radical formation and inhibition of antioxidant defense systems play a role in the liver damage pathogenesis in diabetic patients The antioxidant, anti-diabetic, anti-inflammatory, and radical scavenging properties of crocin are known. This study was designed to determine the possible protective effects of crocin against liver tissue damage in pinealectomized diabetic rats. Sixty rats were divided into six groups: Control, Sham+streptozotocin (STZ), Pinealectomy (PINX), PINX+STZ, PINX+Crocin, and PINX+STZ+Crocin. PNX procedure was carried out on the first day of the experiment. Intraperitoneal (i.p.) injection of 50 mg/kg STZ was performed on the 30th day of the experiment to induce DM. Crocin (50 mg/kg; i.p.) was applied for 15 days after the pinealectomy procedure and induction of DM. Crocin decreased the markers (alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), interleukin-1β (IL-1β), and malondialdehyde (MDA)) of liver damage and increased antioxidant enzyme levels and tissue total antioxidant status. Histological results showed that the administration of crocin exhibited a protective effect against liver damage caused by STZ. These results indicate that crocin evidence protection against liver injury caused by STZ.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melike Karayakali
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Karabuk University, Karabuk, Turkey
| | - Eyup Altinoz
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Karabuk University, Karabuk, Turkey
| | - Hulya Elbe
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, Mugla Sıtkı Kocman University, Mugla, Turkey
| | - Oguzhan Koca
- Department of Biochemistry, Karabuk University Education and Research Hospital, Karabuk, Turkey
| | - Melike Ozgul Onal
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, Mugla Sıtkı Kocman University, Mugla, Turkey
| | - Yasemin Bicer
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Karabuk University, Karabuk, Turkey
| | - Mehmet Demir
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Karabuk University, Karabuk, Turkey.
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Sanaie S, Nikanfar S, Kalekhane ZY, Azizi-Zeinalhajlou A, Sadigh-Eteghad S, Araj-Khodaei M, Ayati MH, Andalib S. Saffron as a promising therapy for diabetes and Alzheimer's disease: mechanistic insights. Metab Brain Dis 2023; 38:137-162. [PMID: 35986812 DOI: 10.1007/s11011-022-01059-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2022] [Accepted: 07/29/2022] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
The prevalence of both Alzheimer's disease (AD) and diabetes mellitus is increasing with the societies' aging and has become an essential social concern worldwide. Accumulation of amyloid plaques and neurofibrillary tangles (NFTs) of tau proteins in the brain are hallmarks of AD. Diabetes is an underlying risk factor for AD. Insulin resistance has been proposed to be involved in amyloid-beta (Aβ) aggregation in the brain. It seems that diabetic conditions can result in AD pathology by setting off a cascade of processes, including inflammation, mitochondrial dysfunction, and ROS and advanced glycation end products (AGEs) synthesis. Due to the several side effects of chemical drugs and their high cost, using herbal medicine has recently attracted attention for the treatment of diabetes and AD. Saffron and its active ingredients have been used for its anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant, anti-diabetic, and anti-AD properties. Therefore, in the present review paper, we take account of the clinical, in vivo and in vitro evidence regarding the anti-diabetic and anti-AD effects of saffron and discuss the preventive or postponing properties of saffron or its components on AD development via its anti-diabetic effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarvin Sanaie
- Research Center for Integrative Medicine in Aging, Aging Research Institute, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Saba Nikanfar
- Department of Biochemistry and Clinical Laboratories, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Zahra Yousefi Kalekhane
- Research Center of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Aging Research Institute, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
- Department of Psychology, Faculty of Educational Sciences and Psychology, University of Tabriz, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Akbar Azizi-Zeinalhajlou
- Student Research Committee, Aging Research Institute, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
- Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Research Center, Aging Research Institute, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Saeed Sadigh-Eteghad
- Neurosciences Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Mostafa Araj-Khodaei
- Research Center for Integrative Medicine in Aging, Aging Research Institute, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.
- Department of Persian Medicine, School of Traditional Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.
| | - Mohammad Hossein Ayati
- Research Center for Integrative Medicine in Aging, Aging Research Institute, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.
- Department of Traditional Medicine, School of Persian Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Sasan Andalib
- Research Unit of Clinical Physiology and Nuclear Medicine, Department of Clinical Research, Odense University Hospital, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
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Matraszek-Gawron R, Chwil M, Terlecki K, Skoczylas MM. Current Knowledge of the Antidepressant Activity of Chemical Compounds from Crocus sativus L. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2022; 16:58. [PMID: 36678554 PMCID: PMC9860663 DOI: 10.3390/ph16010058] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2022] [Revised: 12/09/2022] [Accepted: 12/12/2022] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Psychotropic effect of Crocus sativus L. (family Iridaceae) biologically active chemical compounds are quite well documented and they can therefore be used in addition to the conventional pharmacological treatment of depression. This systematic review on antidepressant compounds in saffron crocus and their mechanisms of action and side effects is based on publications released between 1995−2022 and data indexed in 15 databases under the following search terms: antidepressant effect, central nervous system, Crocus sativus, cognitive impairement, crocin, crocetin, depression, dopamine, dopaminergic and serotonergic systems, picrocrocin, phytotherapy, neurotransmitters, safranal, saffron, serotonin, and biologically active compounds. The comparative analysis of the publications was based on 414 original research papers. The investigated literature indicates the effectiveness and safety of aqueous and alcoholic extracts and biologically active chemical compounds (alkaloids, anthocyanins, carotenoids, flavonoid, phenolic, saponins, and terpenoids) isolated from various organs (corms, leaves, flower petal, and stigmas) in adjuvant treatment of depression and anxiety. Monoamine reuptake inhibition, N-methyl-d-aspartate (NMDA) receptor antagonism, and gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA)-α agonism are the main proposed mechanism of the antidepressant action. The antidepressant and neuroprotective effect of extract components is associated with their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activity. The mechanism of their action, interactions with conventional drugs and other herbal preparations and the safety of use are not fully understood; therefore, further detailed research in this field is necessary. The presented results regarding the application of C. sativus in phytotherapy are promising in terms of the use of herbal preparations to support the treatment of depression. This is particularly important given the steady increase in the incidence of this disease worldwide and social effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Renata Matraszek-Gawron
- Department of Botany and Plant Physiology, University of Life Sciences in Lublin, Akademicka 15 Street, 20-950 Lublin, Poland
| | - Mirosława Chwil
- Department of Botany and Plant Physiology, University of Life Sciences in Lublin, Akademicka 15 Street, 20-950 Lublin, Poland
| | - Karol Terlecki
- Department of Vascular Surgery and Angiology, Medical University of Lublin, Racławickie 1 Street, 20-059 Lublin, Poland
| | - Michał Marian Skoczylas
- Department of Diagnostic Imaging and Interventional Radiology, Pomeranian Medical University in Szczecin, Unii Lubelskiej 1 Street, 71-252 Szczecin, Poland
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18
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Ezati P, Khan A, Rhim JW, Roy S, Hassan ZU. Saffron: Perspectives and Sustainability for Active and Intelligent Food Packaging Applications. FOOD BIOPROCESS TECH 2022. [DOI: 10.1007/s11947-022-02949-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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19
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pH-Responsive Color Indicator of Saffron (Crocus sativus L.) Anthocyanin-Activated Salep Mucilage Edible Film for Real-Time Monitoring of Fish Fillet Freshness. CHEMISTRY 2022. [DOI: 10.3390/chemistry4040089] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Researchers have been focusing increasingly on preparing innovative packaging films made from renewable and biodegradable materials in recent years. This research set out to fabricate and analyze pH-sensitive edible films based on salep mucilage combined with anthocyanin from saffron (Crocus sativus L.) (SAAs). A casting technique was developed with varying concentrations of SAAs (0, 2.5, 5, 7.5, and 10%v/v) pH-sensitive edible films. The surface morphology, physicochemical, barrier, and mechanical properties, as well as the pH sensitivity of films, were investigated. The results showed SAAs increased thickness, water solubility, moisture content, and oxygen permeability (O2P) up to 199.03 µm, 63.71%, 14.13%, and 47.73 (cm3 µm m−2 day−1 kPa−1), respectively, of the pH-sensitive salep mucilage edible indicator films. As expected, the SAAs concentration from 0% to 10%v/v decreased tensile strength, transparency, and contact angle to 11.94 MPa, 14.27%, and 54.02°, respectively. Although achieving the highest elongation at the break (108%) and the lowest water vapor permeability (WVP) (1.39 g s−1 m−1 Pa−1 × 10−11), the pH-sensitive edible indicator film containing 5 %v/v of SAAs showed the best results. An investigation of pH sensitivity revealed that the solution’s pH variation altered the SAAs color. When the pH was raised from 3 to 11, the SAAs’ color shifted from pink to brown. The SAAs-halochromic salep mucilage edible indicator film was employed as a label in an experiment to track the degradation of fish fillets stored at 4 °C, revealing that the halochromic indicator changed color from yellow to brown as the fish was stored. Our findings show that SAAs-loaded salep mucilage indicator films help monitor real-time food deterioration.
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Avila-Sosa R, Nevárez-Moorillón GV, Ochoa-Velasco CE, Navarro-Cruz AR, Hernández-Carranza P, Cid-Pérez TS. Detection of Saffron’s Main Bioactive Compounds and Their Relationship with Commercial Quality. Foods 2022. [PMCID: PMC9601577 DOI: 10.3390/foods11203245] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
This review aims to evaluate the state of saffron’s main bioactive compounds and their relationship with its commercial quality. Saffron is the commercial name for the dried red stigmas of the Crocus sativus L. flower. It owes its sensory and functional properties mainly to the presence of its carotenoid derivatives, synthesized throughout flowering and also during the whole production process. These compounds include crocin, crocetin, picrocrocin, and safranal, which are bioactive metabolites. Saffron’s commercial value is determined according to the ISO/TS3632 standard that determines their main apocatotenoids. Other techniques such as chromatography (gas and liquid) are used to detect the apocarotenoids. This, together with the determination of spectral fingerprinting or chemo typing are essential for saffron identification. The determination of the specific chemical markers coupled with chemometric methods favors the discrimination of adulterated samples, possible plants, or adulterating compounds and even the concentrations at which these are obtained. Chemical characterization and concentration of various compounds could be affected by saffron’s geographical origin and harvest/postharvest characteristics. The large number of chemical compounds found in the by-products (flower parts) of saffron (catechin, quercetin, delphinidin, etc.) make it an interesting aromatic spice as a colorant, antioxidant, and source of phytochemicals, which can also bring additional economic value to the most expensive aromatic species in the world.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raul Avila-Sosa
- Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Benemérita Universidad Autónoma de Puebla, Edificio 105E, 14 Sur y Av. San Claudio, Ciudad Universitaria, Col. San Manuel, Puebla 72420, Mexico
| | | | - Carlos Enrique Ochoa-Velasco
- Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Benemérita Universidad Autónoma de Puebla, Edificio 105E, 14 Sur y Av. San Claudio, Ciudad Universitaria, Col. San Manuel, Puebla 72420, Mexico
| | - Addí Rhode Navarro-Cruz
- Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Benemérita Universidad Autónoma de Puebla, Edificio 105E, 14 Sur y Av. San Claudio, Ciudad Universitaria, Col. San Manuel, Puebla 72420, Mexico
| | - Paola Hernández-Carranza
- Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Benemérita Universidad Autónoma de Puebla, Edificio 105E, 14 Sur y Av. San Claudio, Ciudad Universitaria, Col. San Manuel, Puebla 72420, Mexico
| | - Teresa Soledad Cid-Pérez
- Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Benemérita Universidad Autónoma de Puebla, Edificio 105E, 14 Sur y Av. San Claudio, Ciudad Universitaria, Col. San Manuel, Puebla 72420, Mexico
- Correspondence:
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Review of Evidence for the Usage of Antioxidants for Eye Aging. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2022; 2022:5810373. [PMID: 36225983 PMCID: PMC9550496 DOI: 10.1155/2022/5810373] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2021] [Revised: 06/15/2022] [Accepted: 09/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Oxidative stress is one of the common factors leading to age-related eye diseases in older adults. Factors such as high oxygen consumption, high concentration of polyunsaturated fatty acids, and cumulative exposure to high-energy visible light in the eyes, lead to excessive generation of reactive oxygen species, hence triggering apoptosis of ocular cells and giving rise to ophthalmic diseases. Dietary supplements such as carotenoids, anthocyanins, and vitamins have antioxidant properties which may be of benefit in retaining better vision or reversing vision impairment; thus, studies have been conducted to understand the role of dietary supplements in the treatment or prevention of ophthalmic diseases. While high concentration of carotenoids such as lutein and zeaxanthin decrease the risk of developing age-related macular disease, anthocyanins and vitamins play a role in the treatment and prevention of other ophthalmic diseases: saffron extract reduced intraocular pressure in glaucoma patients; bilberry extract prevented impairments in lenses and retina, as well as alleviate symptoms of dry eye disease; high concentration of beta-carotene may reduce the risk of developing cataract. Further studies with clinical measurements are required to investigate the effectiveness of antioxidants on visual function and ophthalmic diseases.
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22
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Potential Role of Phytochemical Extract from Saffron in Development of Functional Foods and Protection of Brain-Related Disorders. OXIDATIVE MEDICINE AND CELLULAR LONGEVITY 2022; 2022:6480590. [PMID: 36193081 PMCID: PMC9526642 DOI: 10.1155/2022/6480590] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2022] [Accepted: 08/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
The present review is designed to measure the effects of saffron extract in functional foods and its pharmacological properties against various disorders. Saffron is a traditional medicinal plant used as a food additive. The stigma of saffron has bioactive compounds such as safranal, crocin, crocetin, picrocrocin, kaempferol, and flavonoid. These bioactive compounds can be extracted using conventional (maceration, solvent extraction, soxhlet extraction, and vapor or hydrodistillation) and novel techniques (emulsion liquid membrane extraction, ultrasound-assisted extraction, enzyme-associated extraction, pulsed electric field extraction, microwave-assisted extraction, and supercritical fluid extraction). Saffron is used as a functional ingredient, natural colorant, shelf-life enhancer, and fortifying agent in developing different food products. The demand for saffron has been increasing in the pharma industry due to its protection against cardiovascular and Alzheimer disease and its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antitumor, and antidepressant properties. Conclusively, the phytochemical compounds of saffron improve the nutrition value of products and protect humans against various disorders.
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Norouzy A, Ghodrat S, Bahrami LS, Feizy Z, Arabi SM. The effects of saffron supplementation on the measures of renal function indicators: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Int Urol Nephrol 2022; 54:2215-2226. [PMID: 35103929 DOI: 10.1007/s11255-022-03127-2] [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: 07/03/2021] [Accepted: 01/11/2022] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
CONTEXT Saffron (Crocus sativus L.) has been proposed as a potential agent to improve renal function in animal studies. But, due to insufficient evidence in human research, further investigation is needed. OBJECTIVE To fill this knowledge gap, we conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) to evaluate the effect of saffron supplementation on the measures of renal function indicators in adults. Renal function was assessed based on serum urea, blood urea nitrogen, and creatinine levels. METHOD AND MATERIALS A systematic search in PubMed/Medline, Scopus, Web of Science, Embase, and Google Scholar databases was done until March 2021 using relevant keywords. A random-effects model was used to estimate the weighted mean difference (WMD) and 95% confidence (95% CI). Nine RCTs were included in the meta-analysis, and their quality was assessed using the Cochrane risk of bias tool. RESULTS The pooled analysis showed that saffron supplementation had no significant effect on serum urea concentrations (WMD: - 1.05 mg/dl; 95% CI - 5.1 to 3; P = 0.6, I2 = 93%, P < 0.001) and serum creatinine levels (WMD: - 0.006 mg/dl; 95% CI - 0.08 to 0.06; P = 0.8, I2 = 79%, P < 0.001) when compared to the placebo group. In the dose-response analysis, we observed a significant non-linear relationship between the duration of saffron supplementation and serum urea and creatinine levels. CONCLUSIONS Based on our findings, Saffron supplementation had no significant effect on renal function markers, including urea and creatinine. However, further trials are required to determine the actual effect and safety of saffron intervention in human studies. PROSPERO SUBMISSION ID 248081.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abdolreza Norouzy
- Department of Nutrition, School of Medicine, Metabolic Syndrome Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Sara Ghodrat
- Department of Nutrition, School of Medicine, Metabolic Syndrome Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Leila Sadat Bahrami
- Department of Nutrition, School of Medicine, Metabolic Syndrome Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Zahra Feizy
- Department of Nutritional Sciences, Texas Tech University, Lubbock, TX, 79414, USA
| | - Seyyed Mostafa Arabi
- Department of Basic Sciences, School of Medicine, Neyshabur University of Medical Sciences, Neyshabur, Iran.
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24
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Vitale S, Colanero S, Placidi M, Di Emidio G, Tatone C, Amicarelli F, D’Alessandro AM. Phytochemistry and Biological Activity of Medicinal Plants in Wound Healing: An Overview of Current Research. MOLECULES (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2022; 27:molecules27113566. [PMID: 35684503 PMCID: PMC9182061 DOI: 10.3390/molecules27113566] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2022] [Revised: 05/28/2022] [Accepted: 05/30/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Wound healing is a complicated process, and the effective management of wounds is a major challenge. Natural herbal remedies have now become fundamental for the management of skin disorders and the treatment of skin infections due to the side effects of modern medicine and lower price for herbal products. The aim of the present study is to summarize the most recent in vitro, in vivo, and clinical studies on major herbal preparations, their phytochemical constituents, and new formulations for wound management. Research reveals that several herbal medicaments have marked activity in the management of wounds and that this activity is ascribed to flavonoids, alkaloids, saponins, and phenolic compounds. These phytochemicals can act at different stages of the process by means of various mechanisms, including anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antioxidant, collagen synthesis stimulating, cell proliferation, and angiogenic effects. The application of natural compounds using nanotechnology systems may provide significant improvement in the efficacy of wound treatments. Increasing the clinical use of these therapies would require safety assessment in clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefania Vitale
- Department of Life, Health and Environmental Sciences, University of L’Aquila, 67100 L’Aquila, Italy; (S.V.); (M.P.); (G.D.E.); (C.T.); (F.A.)
| | - Sara Colanero
- Department of Biosciences, University of Milan, Via Giovanni Celoria 26, 20133 Milan, Italy;
| | - Martina Placidi
- Department of Life, Health and Environmental Sciences, University of L’Aquila, 67100 L’Aquila, Italy; (S.V.); (M.P.); (G.D.E.); (C.T.); (F.A.)
| | - Giovanna Di Emidio
- Department of Life, Health and Environmental Sciences, University of L’Aquila, 67100 L’Aquila, Italy; (S.V.); (M.P.); (G.D.E.); (C.T.); (F.A.)
| | - Carla Tatone
- Department of Life, Health and Environmental Sciences, University of L’Aquila, 67100 L’Aquila, Italy; (S.V.); (M.P.); (G.D.E.); (C.T.); (F.A.)
| | - Fernanda Amicarelli
- Department of Life, Health and Environmental Sciences, University of L’Aquila, 67100 L’Aquila, Italy; (S.V.); (M.P.); (G.D.E.); (C.T.); (F.A.)
| | - Anna Maria D’Alessandro
- Department of Life, Health and Environmental Sciences, University of L’Aquila, 67100 L’Aquila, Italy; (S.V.); (M.P.); (G.D.E.); (C.T.); (F.A.)
- Correspondence:
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An In Vitro Study of Saffron Carotenoids: The Effect of Crocin Extracts and Dimethylcrocetin on Cancer Cell Lines. Antioxidants (Basel) 2022; 11:antiox11061074. [PMID: 35739971 PMCID: PMC9220052 DOI: 10.3390/antiox11061074] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2022] [Revised: 05/17/2022] [Accepted: 05/24/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Crocus sativus L. has various pharmacological properties, known for over 3600 years. These properties are attributed mainly to biologically active substances, which belong to the terpenoid group and include crocins, picrocrocin and safranal. The aim of the current work was to examine the effects of crocins (CRCs) and their methyl ester derivate dimethylcrocetin (DMCRT) on glioblastoma and rhabdomyosarcoma cell lines, in terms of cytotoxicity and gene expression, implicated in proapoptotic and cell survival pathways. Cell cytotoxicity was assessed with Alamar Blue fluorescence assay after treatment with saffron carotenoids for 24, 48 and 72 h and concentrations ranging from 22.85 to 0.18 mg/mL for CRCs and 11.43 to 0.09 mg/mL for DMCRT. In addition, BAX, BID, BCL2, MYCN, SOD1, and GSTM1 gene expression was studied by qRT-PCR analysis. Both compounds demonstrated cytotoxic effects against glioblastoma and rhabdomyosarcoma cell lines, in a dose- and time-dependent manner. They induced apoptosis, via BAX and BID upregulation, MYCN and BCL-2, SOD1, GSTM1 downregulation. The current research denotes the possible anticancer properties of saffron carotenoids, which are considered safe phytochemicals, already tested in clinical trials for their health promoting properties.
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Phytochemical profiling, antibacterial and antioxidant properties of Crocus sativus flower: A comparison between tepals and stigmas. OPEN CHEM 2022. [DOI: 10.1515/chem-2022-0155] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Several studies have demonstrated that stigmas of Crocus sativus contain several bioactive compounds with potential health-promoting properties. However, during the processing of stigmas, large amounts of floral bio-residues are normally discarded as by-products. In this study, using untargeted metabolomics, the comprehensive phytochemical composition of C. sativus stigma and tepals was investigated. Moreover, the antibacterial and anti-biofilm properties of the extracts of C. sativus stigmas and tepals were compared. The study was carried out using two methicillin-resistant staphylococcal reference strains (i.e., Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 43300 and Staphylococcus epidermidis ATCC 35984), representing important Gram-positive biofilm-forming human pathogens. The antibacterial properties were correlated with total polyphenol content, total terpenoid content, and in vitro antioxidant properties of tepals and stigmas. The results demonstrated that stigma and tepal extracts, at the sub-toxic concentrations, were able to interfere with biofilm formation by ATCC 43300 and ATCC 35984. Besides, the higher antibacterial activity of tepals than stigmas was associated with higher levels of phycompounds. Therefore, our results demonstrated that C. sativus stigmas and bio-residues, such as tepals, are potential antioxidant sources and good candidates as antibacterial agents to prevent biofilm formation. Taken together, these findings showed that C. sativus could be used as functional ingredient by the food and pharmaceutical industries.
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Scuto M, Modafferi S, Rampulla F, Zimbone V, Tomasello M, Spano’ S, Ontario M, Palmeri A, Trovato Salinaro A, Siracusa R, Di Paola R, Cuzzocrea S, Calabrese E, Wenzel U, Calabrese V. Redox modulation of stress resilience by Crocus Sativus L. for potential neuroprotective and anti-neuroinflammatory applications in brain disorders: From molecular basis to therapy. Mech Ageing Dev 2022; 205:111686. [DOI: 10.1016/j.mad.2022.111686] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2022] [Revised: 05/18/2022] [Accepted: 05/18/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
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28
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Beiki S, Tavakkol-Afshari J, Shariati-Sarabi Z, Poursamimi J, Gowhari Shabgah A, Mohammadi M. A Significant Reduction in the Plasma Levels and Gene Expression of CCL2 in Patients with Osteoarthritis following Intervention with Krocina™. Rep Biochem Mol Biol 2022; 11:10-19. [PMID: 35765531 PMCID: PMC9208552 DOI: 10.52547/rbmb.11.1.10] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2021] [Accepted: 10/01/2021] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND inflammatory chemokines such as CCL2 and CCL5 are involved in the progress of osteoarthritis. Crocin with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties can reduce the symptoms of osteoarthritis (OA). This study was performed investigate the effect of Krocina™, on the gene expressions and plasma levels of CCL2 and CCL5 in OA patients. METHODS The study included 35 patients that were randomized in the Krocina™ and placebo groups. The intervention was Krocina™ 15mg daily for four months. Clinical and paraclinical parameters were measured. CCL2 and CCL5 genes expression and plasma levels were determined using the SYBR Green Real-Time RT-PCR and Enzyme-linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA) techniques. RESULTS The C-reactive protein (CRP) value in the Krocina™ group and the visual analogue scale (VAS) value in the Krocina™ and placebo groups decreased significantly after the intervention. The gene expression of CCL2 in the Krocina™ and placebo groups decreased significantly. On the contrary, the gene expression of CCL5 in the Krocina™ and placebo groups increased significantly. Moreover, the plasma levels of CCL2 in the Krocina™ and placebo groups decreased meaningfully. There was no difference regarding the plasma levels of CCL5 within the Krocina™ and placebo groups before and after the intervention in either of the groups. CONCLUSION Administration of Krocina™ reduced the clinical signs of inflammation and CRP and VAS value. Also, Krocina™ significantly decreased the plasma levels and gene expression of CCL2 in osteoarthritis patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samaneh Beiki
- Allergy Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran.
- ImmunologyDepartment, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran.
| | | | - Zhaleh Shariati-Sarabi
- Rheumatic Diseases Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran.
- Internal Medicine Department, Imam Reza hospital, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran.
| | - Javad Poursamimi
- Department ofImmunology, Faculty of Medicine, Zabol University of Medical Sciences, Zabol, Iran.
| | | | - Mojgan Mohammadi
- Immunology Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran.
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Siddiqui SA, Ali Redha A, Snoeck ER, Singh S, Simal-Gandara J, Ibrahim SA, Jafari SM. Anti-Depressant Properties of Crocin Molecules in Saffron. MOLECULES (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2022; 27:molecules27072076. [PMID: 35408474 PMCID: PMC9000812 DOI: 10.3390/molecules27072076] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2022] [Revised: 03/18/2022] [Accepted: 03/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Saffron is a valued herb, obtained from the stigmas of the C. sativus Linn (Iridaceae), with therapeutic effects. It has been described in pharmacopoeias to be variously acting, including as an anti-depressant, anti-carcinogen, and stimulant agent. The therapeutic effects of saffron are harbored in its bioactive molecules, notably crocins, the subject of this paper. Crocins have been demonstrated to act as a monoamine oxidase type A and B inhibitor. Furthermore, saffron petal extracts have experimentally been shown to impact contractile response in electrical field stimulation. Other research suggests that saffron also inhibits the reuptake of monoamines, exhibits N-methyl-d-aspartate antagonism, and improves brain-derived neurotrophic factor signaling. A host of experimental studies found saffron/crocin to be similarly effective as fluoxetine and imipramine in the treatment of depression disorders. Saffron and crocins propose a natural solution to combat depressive disorders. However, some hurdles, such as stability and delivery, need to be overcome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shahida Anusha Siddiqui
- Campus Straubing for Biotechnology and Sustainability, Technical University of Munich, Essigberg 3, 94315 Straubing, Germany;
- German Institute of Food Technologies (DIL e.V.), 49610 D-Quakenbrück, Germany
| | - Ali Ali Redha
- Department of Sport and Health Sciences, College of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Exeter, Exeter EX1 2LU, UK;
- Centre for Nutrition and Food Sciences, Queensland Alliance for Agriculture and Food Innovation (QAAFI), The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4072, Australia
| | - Edgar Remmet Snoeck
- Food Technology Study Programme, HAS University of Applied Sciences, Onderwijsboulevard 221, 5223 DE ‘s-Hertogenbosch, The Netherlands;
| | - Shubhra Singh
- Department of Tropical Agriculture and International Cooperation, National Pingtung University of Science and Technology, No. 1, Xuefu Rd, Neipu Township, Pingtung City 912, Taiwan;
| | - Jesus Simal-Gandara
- Nutrition and Bromatology Group, Department of Analytical Chemistry and Food Science, Faculty of Science, Universidade de Vigo, E-32004 Ourense, Spain;
| | - Salam A. Ibrahim
- Food and Nutritional Sciences Program, North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University, E. Market Street, 1601, Greensboro, NC 24711, USA;
| | - Seid Mahdi Jafari
- Nutrition and Bromatology Group, Department of Analytical Chemistry and Food Science, Faculty of Science, Universidade de Vigo, E-32004 Ourense, Spain;
- Faculty of Food Science and Technology, Gorgan University of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources, Gorgan 49189, Iran
- Correspondence:
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Ahrazem O, Diretto G, Rambla JL, Rubio-Moraga Á, Lobato-Gómez M, Frusciante S, Argandoña J, Presa S, Granell A, Gómez-Gómez L. Engineering high levels of saffron apocarotenoids in tomato. HORTICULTURE RESEARCH 2022; 9:uhac074. [PMID: 35669709 PMCID: PMC9157650 DOI: 10.1093/hr/uhac074] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2021] [Accepted: 03/16/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Crocins and picrocrocin are high-value hydrophilic pigments produced in saffron and used commercially in the food and pharmaceutical industries. These apocarotenoids are derived from the oxidative cleavage of zeaxanthin by specific carotenoid cleavage dioxygenases. The pathway for crocins and picrocrocin biosynthesis was introduced into tomato using fruit specific and constitutive promoters and resulted in 14.48 mg/g of crocins and 2.92 mg/g of picrocrocin in the tomato DW, without compromising plant growth. The strategy involved expression of CsCCD2L to produce crocetin dialdehyde and 2,6,6-trimethyl-4-hydroxy-1-carboxaldehyde-1-cyclohexene, and of glycosyltransferases UGT709G1 and CsUGT2 for picrocrocin and crocins production, respectively. Metabolic analyses of the engineered fruits revealed picrocrocin and crocetin-(β-D-gentiobiosyl)-(β-D-glucosyl)-ester, as the predominant crocin molecule, as well as safranal, at the expense of the usual tomato carotenoids. The results showed the highest crocins content ever obtained by metabolic engineering in heterologous systems. In addition, the engineered tomatoes showed higher antioxidant capacity and were able to protect against neurological disorders in a Caenorhabditis elegans model of Alzheimer's disease. Therefore, these new developed tomatoes could be exploited as a new platform to produce economically competitive saffron apocarotenoids with health-promoting properties.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oussama Ahrazem
- Instituto Botánico, Departamento de Ciencia y Tecnología Agroforestal y Genética, Universidad de Castilla-La Mancha, Campus Universitario s/n, Albacete 02071, Spain
| | - Gianfranco Diretto
- Italian National Agency for New Technologies, Energy, and Sustainable Development (ENEA), Biotechnology laboratory, Casaccia Research Centre, 00123 Rome, Italy
| | - José Luis Rambla
- Departamento de Ciencias Agrarias y del Medio Natural, Universitat Jaume I, 12006 Castellón de la Plana, Spain
| | - Ángela Rubio-Moraga
- Instituto Botánico, Departamento de Ciencia y Tecnología Agroforestal y Genética, Universidad de Castilla-La Mancha, Campus Universitario s/n, Albacete 02071, Spain
| | - María Lobato-Gómez
- Instituto de Biología Molecular y Celular de Plantas, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas-Universidad Politécnica de València, Valencia 46022, Spain
| | - Sarah Frusciante
- Italian National Agency for New Technologies, Energy, and Sustainable Development (ENEA), Biotechnology laboratory, Casaccia Research Centre, 00123 Rome, Italy
| | - Javier Argandoña
- Instituto Botánico, Departamento de Ciencia y Tecnología Agroforestal y Genética, Universidad de Castilla-La Mancha, Campus Universitario s/n, Albacete 02071, Spain
| | - Silvia Presa
- Instituto de Biología Molecular y Celular de Plantas, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas-Universidad Politécnica de València, Valencia 46022, Spain
| | - Antonio Granell
- Instituto de Biología Molecular y Celular de Plantas, Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas-Universidad Politécnica de València, Valencia 46022, Spain
| | - Lourdes Gómez-Gómez
- Instituto Botánico, Departamento de Ciencia y Tecnología Agroforestal y Genética, Universidad de Castilla-La Mancha, Campus Universitario s/n, Albacete 02071, Spain
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Ahrazem O, Zhu C, Huang X, Rubio-Moraga A, Capell T, Christou P, Gómez-Gómez L. Metabolic Engineering of Crocin Biosynthesis in Nicotiana Species. FRONTIERS IN PLANT SCIENCE 2022; 13:861140. [PMID: 35350302 PMCID: PMC8957871 DOI: 10.3389/fpls.2022.861140] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2022] [Accepted: 02/11/2022] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
Crocins are high-value soluble pigments that are used as colorants and supplements, their presence in nature is extremely limited and, consequently, the high cost of these metabolites hinders their use by other sectors, such as the pharmaceutical and cosmetic industries. The carotenoid cleavage dioxygenase 2L (CsCCD2L) is the key enzyme in the biosynthetic pathway of crocins in Crocus sativus. In this study, CsCCD2L was introduced into Nicotiana tabacum and Nicotiana glauca for the production of crocins. In addition, a chimeric construct containing the Brevundimonas sp. β-carotene hydroxylase (BrCrtZ), the Arabidopsis thaliana ORANGE mutant gene (AtOrMut), and CsCCD2L was also introduced into N. tabacum. Quantitative and qualitative studies on carotenoids and apocarotenoids in the transgenic plants expressing CsCCD2L alone showed higher crocin level accumulation in N. glauca transgenic plants, reaching almost 400 μg/g DW in leaves, while in N. tabacum 36 μg/g DW was obtained. In contrast, N. tabacum plants coexpressing CsCCD2L, BrCrtZ, and AtOrMut accumulated, 3.5-fold compared to N. tabacum plants only expressing CsCCD2L. Crocins with three and four sugar molecules were the main molecular species in both host systems. Our results demonstrate that the production of saffron apocarotenoids is feasible in engineered Nicotiana species and establishes a basis for the development of strategies that may ultimately lead to the commercial exploitation of these valuable pigments for multiple applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oussama Ahrazem
- Departamento de Ciencia y Tecnología Agroforestal y Genética, Instituto Botánico, Universidad de Castilla-La Mancha, Campus Universitario, Albacete, Spain
| | - Changfu Zhu
- Department of Plant Production and Forestry Science, University of Lleida-Agrotecnio Centre de Recerca en Agrotecnologia (CERCA) Center, Lleida, Spain
- School of Life Sciences, Changchun Normal University, Changchun, China
| | - Xin Huang
- Department of Plant Production and Forestry Science, University of Lleida-Agrotecnio Centre de Recerca en Agrotecnologia (CERCA) Center, Lleida, Spain
| | - Angela Rubio-Moraga
- Departamento de Ciencia y Tecnología Agroforestal y Genética, Instituto Botánico, Universidad de Castilla-La Mancha, Campus Universitario, Albacete, Spain
| | - Teresa Capell
- Department of Plant Production and Forestry Science, University of Lleida-Agrotecnio Centre de Recerca en Agrotecnologia (CERCA) Center, Lleida, Spain
| | - Paul Christou
- Department of Plant Production and Forestry Science, University of Lleida-Agrotecnio Centre de Recerca en Agrotecnologia (CERCA) Center, Lleida, Spain
- Catalan Institute for Research and Advanced Studies (ICREA), Catalan Institute for Research and Advanced Studies, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Lourdes Gómez-Gómez
- Departamento de Ciencia y Tecnología Agroforestal y Genética, Instituto Botánico, Universidad de Castilla-La Mancha, Campus Universitario, Albacete, Spain
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32
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Xing B, Li S, Yang J, Lin D, Feng Y, Lu J, Shao Q. Phytochemistry, pharmacology, and potential clinical applications of saffron: A review. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2021; 281:114555. [PMID: 34438035 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2021.114555] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2021] [Revised: 08/11/2021] [Accepted: 08/21/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Saffron, the dried red stigma of the perennial herb Crocus sativus L. (Iridaceae), is one of the most important and expensive spices in the world. It is used as a traditional Chinese medicine with demonstrated effects in promoting blood circulation and suppressing blood stasis, cooling blood detoxification, and relieving depression. It is mainly used for the treatment of depression, irregular menstruation, postpartum thrombosis, and bruises. AIM OF THE STUDY This review aims to provide a systematic and up-to-date overview of the phytochemistry, pharmacology, and clinical applications of saffron. We hope it could provide useful references and guidance for the future directions of research on saffron. MATERIALS AND METHODS The online database, such as Web of Science, Google Scholar, Science Direct, PubMed, SpringerLink, Wiley Online Library, SciFinder and Chemical book, and CNKI were used to collect relevant literature. And the classic books about Chinese herbal medicine were also being referenced. RESULTS More than 150 chemical compounds, including carotenoids, flavonoids and flavonoid glycosides, monoterpenes and monoterpenoid derivatives, monocyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, amino acids, alkaloids and others, were revealed. The pharmacological activities study of saffron were focused on the antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antitumor, antidepressant, hypoglycemic, hypolipidemic, memory-enhancing, and so on. Currently, saffron is mainly used for the treatment of diabetes, Alzheimer's disease, depression, anxiety disorders, cardiovascular diseases, learning and memory disorders, cancer, and other conditions. CONCLUSIONS Phytochemical and pharmacological analyses of saffron have been revealed in recent studies. However, clinical studies have focused mainly on AD, depression and anxiety disorders. Therefore, a large number of clinical trials are needed to study the efficacy of saffron and its major chemical components against other diseases including hypertension, hyperlipidemia, and cancer. Further studies of the mechanism of action and toxicological properties of saffron are also required, especially research to establish an effective dose of saffron and its long-term toxicity in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bingcong Xing
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Resources Protection and Innovation of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Zhejiang A&F University, Hangzhou, 311300, China; State Key Laboratory of Subtropical Silviculture, Zhejiang A&F University, Hangzhou, 311300, China
| | - Shuailing Li
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Resources Protection and Innovation of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Zhejiang A&F University, Hangzhou, 311300, China; State Key Laboratory of Subtropical Silviculture, Zhejiang A&F University, Hangzhou, 311300, China
| | - Jiaxin Yang
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Resources Protection and Innovation of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Zhejiang A&F University, Hangzhou, 311300, China; State Key Laboratory of Subtropical Silviculture, Zhejiang A&F University, Hangzhou, 311300, China
| | - Ding Lin
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Resources Protection and Innovation of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Zhejiang A&F University, Hangzhou, 311300, China; State Key Laboratory of Subtropical Silviculture, Zhejiang A&F University, Hangzhou, 311300, China
| | - Yue Feng
- School of Pharmaceutical Science, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, 310053, China
| | - Jiangjie Lu
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory for Genetic Improvement and Quality Control of Medicinal Plants, College of Life and Environmental Science, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, 310036, China
| | - Qingsong Shao
- Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Resources Protection and Innovation of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Zhejiang A&F University, Hangzhou, 311300, China; State Key Laboratory of Subtropical Silviculture, Zhejiang A&F University, Hangzhou, 311300, China.
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Effect of Crocus sativus (Saffron) Intake on Top of Standard Treatment, on Disease Outcomes and Comorbidities in Patients with Rheumatic Diseases: Synthesis without Meta-Analysis (SWiM) and Level of Adherence to the CONSORT Statement for Randomized Controlled Trials Delivering Herbal Medicine Interventions. Nutrients 2021; 13:nu13124274. [PMID: 34959826 PMCID: PMC8706139 DOI: 10.3390/nu13124274] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2021] [Revised: 11/23/2021] [Accepted: 11/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Rheumatic diseases (RDs) are often complicated by chronic symptoms and frequent side-effects associated with their treatment. Saffron, a spice derived from the Crocus sativus L. flower, is a popular complementary and alternative medicine among patients with RDs. The present systematic review aimed to summarize the available evidence regarding the efficacy of supplementation with saffron on disease outcomes and comorbidities in patients with RD diagnoses. PubMed, CENTRAL, clinicaltrials.gov and the grey literature were searched until October 2021, and relevant randomized controlled trials (RCTs) were screened for eligibility using Rayyan. Risk of bias was assessed using the Cochrane’s Risk of Bias-2.0 (RoB) tool. A synthesis without meta-analysis (SWiM) was performed by vote counting and an effect direction plot was created. Out of 125 reports, seven fulfilled the eligibility criteria belonging to five RCTs and were included in the SWiM. The RCTs involved patients with rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis and fibromyalgia, and evaluated outcomes related to pain, disease activity, depression, immune response, inflammation, oxidative stress, health, fatigue and functional ability. The majority of trials demonstrated some concerns regarding overall bias. Moreover, the majority of trialists failed to adhere to the formula elaborations suggested by the CONSORT statement for RCTs incorporating herbal medicine interventions. Standardization of herbal medicine confirms its identity, purity and quality; however, the majority of trials failed to adhere to these guidelines. Due to the great heterogeneity and the lack of important information regarding the standardization and content of herbal interventions, it appears that the evidence is not enough to secure a direction of effect for any of the examined outcomes.
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Hasani M, Malekahmadi M, Rezamand G, Estêvão MD, Pizarro AB, Heydari H, Hoong WC, Arafah OA, Barakeh ARR, Rahman A, Alrashidi MSK, Abu-Zaid A. Effect of saffron supplementation on liver enzymes: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. Diabetes Metab Syndr 2021; 15:102311. [PMID: 34678576 DOI: 10.1016/j.dsx.2021.102311] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2021] [Revised: 09/13/2021] [Accepted: 10/08/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS Possible protective effects of saffron (Crocus sativus L) have been reported in several randomized clinical trials (RCTs). Current systematic review was performed to summarize the efficacy of saffron intake on liver enzymes. METHODS An electronic database search was conducted on PubMed/Medline, Scopus, Web of Science, and Cochrane for RCTs comparing effect of saffron and placebo on liver enzymes from inception to July 2021. There was no restriction in language of included studies and we calculated the standardized mean difference (SMD) and 95% Confidence Intervals (CI) for each variable. Random-effect model was used to calculate effect size. RESULTS Eight studies (n = 463 participants) were included in the systematic review. The saffron intake was associated with a statistically significant decrease in aspartate aminotransferase (AST) (SMD: -0.18; 95% CI: -0.34, -0.02; I2 = 0%) in comparison to placebo intake. Our results also indicated that saffron consumption did not have a significant effect on alanine aminotransferase (ALT) (SMD: -0.14; 95% CI: -0.36, 0.09; I2 = 47.0%) and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) levels (SMD: 0.14; 95% CI: -0.18, 0.46; I2 = 42.9%) compared to placebo. CONCLUSIONS Saffron intake showed beneficial impacts on circulating AST levels. However, larger well-designed RCTs are still needed to clarify the effect of saffron intake on these and other liver enzymes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Motahareh Hasani
- Department of Nutrition, School of Public Health, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mahsa Malekahmadi
- Imam Khomeini Hospital Complex, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran; Department of Clinical Nutrition, School of Nutritional Sciences and Dietetics, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Gholamreza Rezamand
- Colorectal Research Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - M Dulce Estêvão
- Universidade do Algarve, Escola Superior de Saúde, Campus de Gambelas, Faro, Portugal.
| | | | - Hafez Heydari
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Sabzevar University of Medical Sciences, Sabzevar, Iran.
| | - Wong Chun Hoong
- Department of Pharmacy, Sultanah Aminah Hospital, Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia.
| | | | | | - Areej Rahman
- College of Medicine, Alfaisal University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
| | | | - Ahmed Abu-Zaid
- College of Medicine, Alfaisal University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia; Department of Pharmacology, College of Graduate Health Sciences, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, TN, United States.
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Musazadeh V, Zarezadeh M, Faghfouri AH, Keramati M, Ghoreishi Z, Farnam A. Saffron, as an adjunct therapy, contributes to relieve depression symptoms: An umbrella meta-analysis. Pharmacol Res 2021; 175:105963. [PMID: 34757208 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2021.105963] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2021] [Revised: 10/22/2021] [Accepted: 10/25/2021] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Saffron is a traditional herbal medicine that has been used to treat various ailments such as depressive mood. However, the findings of several meta-analyses regarding anti-depressive properties of saffron (Crocus sativus L.) are controversial. The current umbrella meta-analysis was carried out to determine the magnitude and direction of saffron administration on depression. METHODS Relevant studies were searched in international databases including PubMed, Scopus, EMBASE, Web of Science, and Cochrane Central Library up to June 2021. Meta-analysis studies investigating the effects of saffron on depression were considered to include in the study. Random-effects model was used to perform the meta-analysis. Additional analyses including subgroup and sensitivity analyses were carried out. RESULTS Overall, 7 meta-analyses were included in the study. The results demonstrated that the consumption of saffron resulted in a significant reduction in BDI scores (ES: -3.87; 95% CI: -5.27, -2.46). However, saffron did not change the HAMD scores (ES: -2.10; 95% CI: -5.05, 0.86, p = 0.164) and mixed scores (HAM-D/BDI/DASS) (ES: 0.02; 95% CI: -0.39, 0.43,p = 0.941). CONCLUSION Present umbrella meta-analysis demonstrated that saffron intake might contribute to alleviation of depression disorder, however, it cannot be considered as a single therapeutic approach to treat depression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vali Musazadeh
- Student Research Committee, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran; Department of Community Nutrition, School of Nutrition and Food Sciences, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.
| | - Meysam Zarezadeh
- Student Research Committee, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran; Nutrition Research Center, Department of Clinical Nutrition, School of Nutrition and Food Sciences, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.
| | - Amir Hossein Faghfouri
- Student Research Committee, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran; Department of Community Nutrition, School of Nutrition and Food Sciences, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Majid Keramati
- Student Research Committee, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran; Department of Community Nutrition, School of Nutrition and Food Sciences, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Zohreh Ghoreishi
- Nutrition Research Center, Department of Clinical Nutrition, School of Nutrition and Food Sciences, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Alireza Farnam
- Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran; Research Center of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.
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Morvaridzadeh M, Agah S, Dulce Estêvão M, Hosseini AS, Heydari H, Toupchian O, Abdollahi S, Persad E, Abu‐Zaid A, Rezamand G, Heshmati J. Effect of saffron supplementation on oxidative stress parameters: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized placebo-controlled trials. Food Sci Nutr 2021; 9:5809-5819. [PMID: 34646548 PMCID: PMC8498059 DOI: 10.1002/fsn3.2463] [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: 02/27/2021] [Revised: 05/23/2021] [Accepted: 06/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Oxidative stress (OS), the absence of equilibrium between prooxidants and antioxidants in the body, has been shown to play a pivotal role in the initiation and progression of many diseases. Saffron has been noted for its antioxidant capacity and can be used to improve OS parameters in unhealthy patients. Our aim was to evaluate the efficacy of saffron supplementation on OS parameters in unhealthy patients in randomized controlled trials (RCTs). We searched Medline, EMBASE, Cochrane CENTRAL, Scopus, and Web of Science without language restrictions for RCTs up until April 2021. Studies were included if they compared any form of saffron supplementation to placebo or no supplementation on OS parameters in unhealthy patients. Using a random-effects model with calculated standardized mean difference (SMD) and 95% confidence intervals (CI), we quantitatively synthesized the data. Heterogeneity was assessed using Cochrane's I 2 values. Ten randomized controlled trials were eligible for this review. Seven were included in the meta-analysis and indicated an association between saffron intake and a statistically significant decrease in malondialdehyde (MDA) levels (SMD: -0.40; 95% CI: -0.63, -0.17; I 2 = 32.6%) and a significant increase in total antioxidant capacity (TAC, SMD: 0.24; 95% CI: 0.05, 0.42; I 2 = 00.0%). Saffron intake was shown to significantly impact MDA and TAC, indicating its beneficial properties in improving OS in unhealthy patients. However, additional RCTs are required to evaluate the effect on other OS parameters.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mojgan Morvaridzadeh
- Songhor Healthcare CenterKermanshah University of Medical SciencesKermanshahIran
| | - Shahram Agah
- Colorectal Research CenterIran University of Medical SciencesTehranIran
| | | | - Ava Sadat Hosseini
- Department of Education and Health PromotionSchool of HealthIran University of Medical SciencesTehranIran
| | - Hafez Heydari
- Cellular and Molecular Research CenterSabzevar University of Medical SciencesSabzevarIran
| | - Omid Toupchian
- Department of Nutrition and public HealthSchool of HealthNorth Khorasan University of Medical SciencesBojnurdIran
| | - Shima Abdollahi
- Department of Nutrition and public HealthSchool of HealthNorth Khorasan University of Medical SciencesBojnurdIran
| | - Emma Persad
- Department for Evidence‐Based Medicine and EvaluationDanube University KremsKremsAustria
| | - Ahmed Abu‐Zaid
- Department of PharmacologyCollege of Graduate Health SciencesUniversity of Tennessee Health Science CenterMemphisTNUSA
| | | | - Javad Heshmati
- Songhor Healthcare CenterKermanshah University of Medical SciencesKermanshahIran
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Roshanravan N, Ghaffari S. The therapeutic potential of Crocus sativus Linn.: A comprehensive narrative review of clinical trials. Phytother Res 2021; 36:98-111. [PMID: 34532906 DOI: 10.1002/ptr.7286] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2020] [Revised: 08/28/2021] [Accepted: 09/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Crocus sativus Linn. (Saffron) is valued worldwide for its potential use in the management of various degenerative disorders, including cardiovascular diseases (CVDs), diabetes, cancer, metabolic syndrome (MetS), neurodegenerative diseases, immune disorders, and sexual dysfunction. Previous reports, based on clinical trials, suggest that crocetin, crocin, picrocrocin, and safranal are the main bioactive components of saffron with antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-apoptotic effects. In this comprehensive narrative review, we studied the recent clinical trials, investigating the medicinal applications of saffron and/or its components. The present results can provide important insights into the potential of saffron in preventing and treating different disorders, with a special focus on the underlying cellular and molecular mechanisms. However, further high-quality studies are needed to firmly establish the clinical efficacy of saffron in treating some degenerative diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Neda Roshanravan
- Cardiovascular Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Samad Ghaffari
- Cardiovascular Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
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Shaheen MJ, Bekdash AM, Itani HA, Borjac JM. Saffron extract attenuates neuroinflammation in rmTBI mouse model by suppressing NLRP3 inflammasome activation via SIRT1. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0257211. [PMID: 34506597 PMCID: PMC8432768 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0257211] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2021] [Accepted: 08/25/2021] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Traumatic brain injury (TBI) remains a major cause of morbidity and disability worldwide and a healthcare burden. TBI is an important risk factor for neurodegenerative diseases hallmarked by exacerbated neuroinflammation. Neuroinflammation in the cerebral cortex plays a critical role in secondary injury progression following TBI. The NOD-like receptors (NLR) family pyrin domain containing 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome is a key player in initiating the inflammatory response in various central nervous system disorders entailing TBI. This current study aims to investigate the role of NLRP3 in repetitive mild traumatic brain injury (rmTBI) and identify the potential neuroprotective effect of saffron extract in regulating the NLRP3 inflammasome. 24 hours following the final injury, rmTBI causes an upregulation in mRNA levels of NLRP3, caspase-1, the apoptosis-associated speck-like protein containing a CARD (ASC), nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB), interleukin-1Beta (IL-1β), interleukin 18 (IL-18), nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (NRF2) and heme oxygenase 1 (HMOX1). Protein levels of NLRP3, sirtuin 1 (SIRT1), glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP), ionized calcium-binding adaptor molecule 1 (Iba1), and neuronal nuclei (Neu N) also increased after rmTBI. Administration of saffron alleviated the degree of TBI, as evidenced by reducing the neuronal damage, astrocyte, and microglial activation. Pretreatment with saffron inhibited the activation of NLRP3, caspase-1, and ASC concurrent to reduced production of the inflammatory cytokines IL-1β and IL-18. Additionally, saffron extract enhanced SIRT1 expression, NRF2, and HMOX1 upregulation. These results suggest that NLRP3 inflammasome activation and the subsequent inflammatory response in the mice cortex are involved in the process of rmTBI. Saffron blocked the inflammatory response and relieved TBI by activating detoxifying genes and inhibiting NLRP3 activation. The effect of saffron on the NLRP3 inflammasome may be SIRT1 and NF-κB dependent in the rmTBI model. Thus, brain injury biomarkers will help in identifying a potential therapeutic target in treating TBI-induced neurodegenerative diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mariam J. Shaheen
- Department of Biological Sciences, Beirut Arab University, Debbieh, Lebanon
| | - Amira M. Bekdash
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Hana A. Itani
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon
- Division of Clinical Pharmacology, Department of Medicine, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee, United States of America
| | - Jamilah M. Borjac
- Department of Biological Sciences, Beirut Arab University, Debbieh, Lebanon
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Rahaman A, Kumari A, Farooq MA, Zeng XA, Hassan S, Khalifa I, Aadil RM, Jahangir Chughtai MF, Khaliq A, Ahmad N, Wajid MA. Novel Extraction Techniques: An Effective Way to Retrieve the Bioactive Compounds from Saffron (Crocus Sativus). FOOD REVIEWS INTERNATIONAL 2021. [DOI: 10.1080/87559129.2021.1967377] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Abdul Rahaman
- School of Food Science and Engineering, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, China
- Overseas Expertise Introduction Centre for Discipline Innovation of Food Nutrition and Human Health (111 Centre), Guangzhou, China
| | - Ankita Kumari
- School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, China
| | - Muhammad Adil Farooq
- Department of Food Science and Technology, Faculty of Engineering and Technology, Khwaja Fareed University Engineering and Information Technology, Rahimyar, Pakistan
| | - Xin-An Zeng
- School of Food Science and Engineering, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, China
- Overseas Expertise Introduction Centre for Discipline Innovation of Food Nutrition and Human Health (111 Centre), Guangzhou, China
| | - Sadia Hassan
- Department of Nutritional Sciences, Faculty of Science and Technology, Government College Women University, Faisalabad, Pakistan
| | - Ibrahim Khalifa
- Food Technology Department, Faculty of Agriculture, Benha University, Egypt
| | - Rana Muhammad Aadil
- National Institute of Food Science and Technology, University of Agriculture, Faisalabad, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Farhan Jahangir Chughtai
- Department of Food Science and Technology, Faculty of Engineering and Technology, Khwaja Fareed University Engineering and Information Technology, Rahimyar, Pakistan
| | - Adnan Khaliq
- Department of Food Science and Technology, Faculty of Engineering and Technology, Khwaja Fareed University Engineering and Information Technology, Rahimyar, Pakistan
| | - Nabeel Ahmad
- School of Biotechnology, Iftm University, Moradabad, India
| | - Mohd Anas Wajid
- Department of Computer Science, Aligarh Muslim University, Aligarh, India
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Kadoglou NPE, Christodoulou E, Kostomitsopoulos N, Valsami G. The cardiovascular-protective properties of saffron and its potential pharmaceutical applications: A critical appraisal of the literature. Phytother Res 2021; 35:6735-6753. [PMID: 34448254 DOI: 10.1002/ptr.7260] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2021] [Revised: 08/09/2021] [Accepted: 08/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Saffron, the dried stigma of Crocus sativus L., is used in traditional medicine for its healing properties and the treatment of various pathological conditions. The present literature review aimed to summarize and evaluate the preclinical and clinical data regarding the protective effects and mechanisms of saffron and its main components (crocin, crocetin, safranal) on cardiovascular risk factors and diseases. Many in vitro and animal studies have been conducted implicating antioxidant, hypolipidemic, anti-diabetic, and antiinflammatory impact of saffron and its constituents. Notably, there is evidence of direct atherosclerosis regression and stabilization in valid atherosclerosis-prone animal models. However, current clinical trials have shown mostly weak effects of saffron and its constituents on cardiovascular risk factors: (a) Modest lowering of fasting blood glucose, without significant reduction of HbA1c in type 2 diabetic patients, (b) moderate/controversial hypolipidemic effects, (c) negligible hypotensive effect, and (d) inconsistent modification of metabolic syndrome parameters. There are important drawbacks in clinical trial design, including the absence of pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic tests, the wide variance of doses and cohorts' characteristics, the small number of patients, the short duration. Therefore, large, properly designed, high-quality clinical trials, focusing on specific conditions are required to evaluate the biological/pharmacological activities and firmly establish the clinical efficacy of saffron and its possible therapeutic uses in cardiovascular diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Eirini Christodoulou
- Laboratory of Biopharmaceutics-Pharmacokinetics, Department of Pharmacy, School of Health Sciences, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Nikolaos Kostomitsopoulos
- Center of Clinical Experimental Surgery and Translational Research, Biomedical Research Foundation, Academy of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Georgia Valsami
- Laboratory of Biopharmaceutics-Pharmacokinetics, Department of Pharmacy, School of Health Sciences, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
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A New Glycosyltransferase Enzyme from Family 91, UGT91P3, Is Responsible for the Final Glucosylation Step of Crocins in Saffron ( Crocus sativus L.). Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22168815. [PMID: 34445522 PMCID: PMC8396231 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22168815] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2021] [Revised: 08/09/2021] [Accepted: 08/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Crocetin is an apocarotenoid formed from the oxidative cleavage of zeaxanthin, by the carotenoid cleavage enzymes CCD2 (in Crocus species) and specific CCD4 enzymes in Buddleja davidii and Gardenia jasminoides. Crocetin accumulates in the stigma of saffron in the form of glucosides and crocins, which contain one to five glucose molecules. Crocetin glycosylation was hypothesized to involve at least two enzymes from superfamily 1 UDP-sugar dependent glycosyltransferases. One of them, UGT74AD1, produces crocins with one and two glucose molecules, which are substrates for a second UGT, which could belong to the UGT79, 91, or 94 families. An in silico search of Crocus transcriptomes revealed six candidate UGT genes from family 91. The transcript profiles of one of them, UGT91P3, matched the metabolite profile of crocin accumulation, and were co-expressed with UGT74AD1. In addition, both UGTs interact in a two-hybrid assay. Recombinant UGT91P3 produced mostly crocins with four and five glucose molecules in vitro, and in a combined transient expression assay with CCD2 and UGT74AD1 enzymes in Nicotiana benthamiana. These results suggest a role of UGT91P3 in the biosynthesis of highly glucosylated crocins in saffron, and that it represents the last missing gene in crocins biosynthesis.
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Kazemi F, Vosough I, Sepahi S, Mohajeri SA. Effect of crocin versus fluoxetine in treatment of mild to moderate obsessive-compulsive disorder: A double blind randomized clinical trial. Hum Psychopharmacol 2021; 36:e2780. [PMID: 33599345 DOI: 10.1002/hup.2780] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2020] [Revised: 01/20/2021] [Accepted: 01/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is a common disabling disorder. Crocin, the active component of the saffron plant (Crocus Sativus L.) has various pharmacological activities. The present study compared the efficacy and safety of crocin and fluoxetine in treatment of mild to moderate OCD. METHODS & MATERIALS Fifty patients with OCD, aged 18 to 60 years, were randomized to receive either crocin (15 mg) or fluoxetine (20 mg) capsules for 8 weeks. Eligible participants received one capsule/day in the first month, which followed by two capsules daily in the second month. The patients were evaluated using Yale-Brown Obsessive-compulsive scale (Y-BOCS) and Hamilton Anxiety Rating scale (HARS). RESULTS The mean Y-BOCS score in both groups decreased significantly during 2 months (p-value = 0.0001). Also, HARS score in the crocin group was changed from 17.16 to 13.04 whereas, in the fluoxetine group was decreased from 18.28 to 12.34. The results indicated no difference between the two groups in Y-BOCS and HARS score changes after 2-month trial (p-value >0.5). Also, fewer adverse effects were reported in the crocin group compared to the fluoxetine group. CONCLUSION According to our study, it seems that crocin is effective in treatment of patients with mild to moderate OCD with possibly fewer adverse effects compared to fluoxetine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fatemeh Kazemi
- Department of Pharmacodynamics and Toxicology, School of Pharmacy, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Iraj Vosough
- Department of Psychiatry, Ibn-e-Sina Psychiatric Hospital, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Samaneh Sepahi
- Targeted Drug Delivery Research Center, Pharmaceutical Technology Institute, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Seyed Ahmad Mohajeri
- Targeted Drug Delivery Research Center, Pharmaceutical Technology Institute, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran.,Pharmaceutical Research Center, Pharmaceutical Technology Institute, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
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Hill D, Compagnoni C, Cordeiro MF. Investigational neuroprotective compounds in clinical trials for retinal disease. Expert Opin Investig Drugs 2021; 30:571-577. [PMID: 33641585 DOI: 10.1080/13543784.2021.1896701] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Retinal neurodegeneration causes irreversible vision loss, impairing quality of life. By targeting neurotoxic conditions, such as oxidative stress and ischemia, neuroprotectants can slow or stop sight loss resulting from eye disease. Despite limimted clinical use of neuroprotectants, there are several promising compounds in early clinical trials (pre-phase III) which may fulfil new therapeutic roles. Search terms relating to neuroprotection and eye disease were used on ClinicalTrials.gov to identify neuroprotective candidates. AREAS COVERED Research supporting neuroprotection in eye diseases is focused on, ranging from preclinical to phase II, according to the ClinicalTrials.gov database. The compounds discussed are explored in terms of future clinical applications. EXPERT OPINION The major challenge in neuroprotection research is translation from basic research to the clinic. A number of potential neuroprotectants have progressed to ophthalmology clinical trials in recent years, with defined mechanisms of action - saffron and CoQ10 - targeting mitochondria, and both CNTF and NGF showing anti-apoptotic effects. Enhancements in trial design and patient cohorts in proof-of-concept trials with enriched patient populations and surrogate endpoints should accelerate drug development. A further important consideration is optimising drug delivery to improve individualised management and patient compliance. Progress in these areas means that neuroprotective strategies have a much improved chance of translational success.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Hill
- Glaucoma and Retinal Neurodegeneration Group, UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, London, UK
| | - Chiara Compagnoni
- Department of Biotechnological and Applied Clinical Sciences, University of L'Aquila, L'Aquila, Italy
| | - M Francesca Cordeiro
- Glaucoma and Retinal Neurodegeneration Group, UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, London, UK.,The Western Eye Hospital, Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust (ICHNT), London, UK
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Panda SS, Jhanji N. Natural Products as Potential Anti-Alzheimer Agents. Curr Med Chem 2021; 27:5887-5917. [PMID: 31215372 DOI: 10.2174/0929867326666190618113613] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/24/2018] [Revised: 03/20/2019] [Accepted: 05/28/2019] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
Medicinal plants have curative properties due to the presence of various complex chemical substances of different composition, which are found as secondary metabolites in one or more parts of the plant. The diverse secondary metabolites play an important role in the prevention and cure of various diseases including neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's disease. Naturally occurring compounds such as flavonoids, polyphenols, alkaloids, and glycosides found in various parts of the plant and/or marine sources may potentially protect neurodegeneration as well as improve memory and cognitive function. Many natural compounds show anti-Alzheimer activity through specific pharmacological mechanisms like targeting β-amyloid, Beta-secretase 1 and Acetylcholinesterase. In this review, we have compiled more than 130 natural products with a broad diversity in the class of compounds, which were isolated from different sources showing anti- Alzheimer properties.
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Affiliation(s)
- Siva S Panda
- Department of Chemistry & Physics, Augusta University, Augusta, Georgia 30912, United States
| | - Nancy Jhanji
- Department of Chemistry & Physics, Augusta University, Augusta, Georgia 30912, United States
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Abu-Izneid T, Rauf A, Khalil AA, Olatunde A, Khalid A, Alhumaydhi FA, Aljohani ASM, Sahab Uddin M, Heydari M, Khayrullin M, Shariati MA, Aremu AO, Alafnan A, Rengasamy KRR. Nutritional and health beneficial properties of saffron ( Crocus sativus L): a comprehensive review. Crit Rev Food Sci Nutr 2020; 62:2683-2706. [PMID: 33327732 DOI: 10.1080/10408398.2020.1857682] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Saffron (Crocus sativus L., family Iridaceae) is used traditionally for medicinal purpose in Chinese, Ayurvedic, Persian and Unani medicines. The bioactive constituents such as apocarotenoids, monoterpenoids, flavonoids, phenolic acids and phytosterols are widely investigated in experimental and clinical studies for a wide range of therapeutic effects, especially on the nervous system. Some of the active constituents of saffron have high bioavailability and bioaccessibility and ability to pass the blood-brain barrier. Multiple preclinical and clinical studies have supported neuroprotective, anxiolytic, antidepressant, learning and memory-enhancing effect of saffron and its bioactive constituents (safranal, crocin, and picrocrocin). Thus, this plant and its active compounds could be a beneficial medicinal food ingredient in the formation of drugs targeting nervous system disorders. This review focuses on phytochemistry, bioaccessibility, bioavailability, and bioactivity of phytochemicals in saffron. Furthermore, the therapeutic effect of saffron against different nervous system disorders has also been discussed in detail.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tareq Abu-Izneid
- Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Al Ain University, Al Ain Campus, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
| | - Abdur Rauf
- Department of Chemistry, University of Swabi, Anbar, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan
| | - Anees Ahmed Khalil
- Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, Institute of Diet and Nutritional Sciences, The University of Lahore, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Ahmed Olatunde
- Department of Biochemistry, Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University, Bauchi, Nigeria
| | - Ahood Khalid
- Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, Institute of Diet and Nutritional Sciences, The University of Lahore, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Fahad A Alhumaydhi
- Department of Medical Laboratories, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Qassim University, Buraydah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Abdullah S M Aljohani
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, College of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Qassim University, Buraydah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Md Sahab Uddin
- Department of Pharmacy, Southeast University, Dhaka, Bangladesh.,Pharmakon Neuroscience Research Network, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Mojtaba Heydari
- Pharmaceutical Sciences Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Mars Khayrullin
- K.G. Razumovsky Moscow State University of Technologies and Management (the First Cossack University), Moscow, Russian Federation.,Plekhanov Russian University of Economics, Moscow, Russian Federation.,A. M. Prokhorov General Physics Institute, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, Russian Federation
| | - Mohammad Ali Shariati
- K.G. Razumovsky Moscow State University of Technologies and Management (the First Cossack University), Moscow, Russian Federation
| | - Adeyemi Oladapo Aremu
- Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences, Indigenous Knowledge Systems Centre, North-West University, Mahikeng, North West Province, South Africa
| | - Ahmed Alafnan
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, University of Hail, Hail, Saudi Arabia
| | - Kannan R R Rengasamy
- Institute of Research and Development, Duy Tan University, Da Nang, Vietnam.,Faculty of Environment and Chemical Engineering, Duy Tan University, Da Nang, Vietnam
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Bosch-Morell F, Villagrasa V, Ortega T, Acero N, Muñoz-Mingarro D, González-Rosende ME, Castillo E, Sanahuja MA, Soriano P, Martínez-Solís I. Medicinal plants and natural products as neuroprotective agents in age-related macular degeneration. Neural Regen Res 2020; 15:2207-2216. [PMID: 32594032 PMCID: PMC7749482 DOI: 10.4103/1673-5374.284978] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2019] [Revised: 12/12/2019] [Accepted: 02/12/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The retina may suffer neurodegenerative damages, as other tissues of the central nervous system do, and serious eye diseases may develop. One of them is age-related macular degeneration, which causes progressive loss of vision due to retina degeneration. Treatment of age-related macular degeneration focuses on antioxidant agents and anti-vascular endothelial growth factor compounds, among others, that prevent/diminish oxidative stress and reduce neovascularisation respectively. The phytochemicals, medicinal plants and/or plant-diet supplements might be a useful adjunct in prevention or treatment of age-related macular degeneration owing to their antioxidant and anti-vascular endothelial growth factor properties. This review article presents the most investigated plants and natural products in relation to age-related macular degeneration, such as saffron, ginkgo, bilberry and blueberry, curcuma or turmeric, carotenoids, polyphenols, and vitamins C and E. This study provides up-to-date information on the effects, treatments, safety and efficiency of these phytotherapy products.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francisco Bosch-Morell
- Biomedical Sciences Institute, Universidad Cardenal Herrera-CEU, CEU Universities, Alfara del Patriarca, Valencia, Spain
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, Universidad Cardenal Herrera-CEU, CEU Universities, Alfara del Patriarca, Valencia, Spain
| | - Victoria Villagrasa
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Health Sciences, Universidad Cardenal Herrera-CEU, CEU Universities, Alfara del Patriarca, Valencia, Spain
| | - Teresa Ortega
- Department of Pharmacology, Pharmacognosy and Botany, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Nuria Acero
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Health Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, Universidad San Pablo-CEU, CEU Universities, Madrid, Spain
| | - Dolores Muñoz-Mingarro
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Universidad San Pablo-CEU, CEU Universities, Madrid, Spain
| | - M. Eugenia González-Rosende
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Health Sciences, Universidad Cardenal Herrera-CEU, CEU Universities, Alfara del Patriarca, Valencia, Spain
| | - Encarna Castillo
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Health Sciences, Universidad Cardenal Herrera-CEU, CEU Universities, Alfara del Patriarca, Valencia, Spain
| | - M. Amparo Sanahuja
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Health Sciences, Universidad Cardenal Herrera-CEU, CEU Universities, Alfara del Patriarca, Valencia, Spain
| | - Pilar Soriano
- ICBiBE-Botanical Garden, University of Valencia, Valencia, Spain
| | - Isabel Martínez-Solís
- Biomedical Sciences Institute, Universidad Cardenal Herrera-CEU, CEU Universities, Alfara del Patriarca, Valencia, Spain
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Health Sciences, Universidad Cardenal Herrera-CEU, CEU Universities, Alfara del Patriarca, Valencia, Spain
- ICBiBE-Botanical Garden, University of Valencia, Valencia, Spain
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Ayati Z, Yang G, Ayati MH, Emami SA, Chang D. Saffron for mild cognitive impairment and dementia: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomised clinical trials. BMC Complement Med Ther 2020; 20:333. [PMID: 33167948 PMCID: PMC7650148 DOI: 10.1186/s12906-020-03102-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2019] [Accepted: 10/01/2020] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Saffron (stigma of Crocus sativus L.) from Iridaceae family is a well-known traditional herbal medicine that has been used for hundreds of years to treat several diseases such as depressive mood, cancer and cardiovascular disorders. Recently, anti-dementia property of saffron has been indicated. However, the effects of saffron for the management of dementia remain controversial. The aim of the present study is to explore the effectiveness and safety of saffron in treating mild cognitive impairment and dementia. Methods An electronic database search of some major English and Chinese databases was conducted until 31st May 2019 to identify relevant randomised clinical trials (RCT). The primary outcome was cognitive function and the secondary outcomes included daily living function, global clinical assessment, quality of life (QoL), psychiatric assessment and safety. Rev-Man 5.3 software was applied to perform the meta-analyses. Results A total of four RCTs were included in this review. The analysis revealed that saffron significantly improves cognitive function measured by the Alzheimer’s Disease Assessment Scale-cognitive subscale (ADAS-cog) and Clinical Dementia Rating Scale-Sums of Boxes (CDR-SB), compared to placebo groups. In addition, there was no significant difference between saffron and conventional medicine, as measured by cognitive scales such as ADAS-cog and CDR-SB. Saffron improved daily living function, but the changes were not statistically significant. No serious adverse events were reported in the included studies. Conclusions Saffron may have the potential to improve cognitive function and activities of daily living in patients with Alzheimer’s disease and mild cognitive impairment (MCI). However, due to limited high-quality studies there is insufficient evidence to make any recommendations for clinical use. Further clinical trials on larger sample sizes are warranted to shed more light on its efficacy and safety.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zahra Ayati
- Department of Traditional Pharmacy, School of Pharmacy, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran.,NICM Heath Research Institute, Western Sydney University, Westmead, NSW, 2145, Australia
| | - Guoyan Yang
- NICM Heath Research Institute, Western Sydney University, Westmead, NSW, 2145, Australia
| | | | - Seyed Ahmad Emami
- Department of Traditional Pharmacy, School of Pharmacy, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Dennis Chang
- NICM Heath Research Institute, Western Sydney University, Westmead, NSW, 2145, Australia.
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Zeka K, Marrazzo P, Micucci M, Ruparelia KC, Arroo RRJ, Macchiarelli G, Annarita Nottola S, Continenza MA, Chiarini A, Angeloni C, Hrelia S, Budriesi R. Activity of Antioxidants from Crocus sativus L. Petals: Potential Preventive Effects towards Cardiovascular System. Antioxidants (Basel) 2020; 9:antiox9111102. [PMID: 33182461 PMCID: PMC7697793 DOI: 10.3390/antiox9111102] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2020] [Revised: 10/22/2020] [Accepted: 11/06/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The petals of the saffron crocus (Crocus sativus L.) are considered a waste material in saffron production, but may be a sustainable source of natural biologically active substances of nutraceutical interest. The aim of this work was to study the cardiovascular effects of kaempferol and crocin extracted from saffron petals. The antiarrhythmic, inotropic, and chronotropic effects of saffron petal extract (SPE), kaempferol, and crocin were evaluated through in vitro biological assays. The antioxidant activity of kaempferol and crocin was investigated through the 2',7'-dichlorodihydrofluorescein diacetate (DCFH-DA) assay using rat cardiomyoblast cell line H9c2. The MTT assay was applied to assess the effects of kaempferol and crocin on cell viability. SPE showed weak negative inotropic and chronotropic intrinsic activities but a significant intrinsic activity on smooth muscle with a potency on the ileum greater than on the aorta: EC50 = 0.66 mg/mL versus EC50 = 1.45 mg/mL. Kaempferol and crocin showed a selective negative inotropic activity. In addition, kaempferol decreased the contraction induced by KCl (80 mM) in guinea pig aortic and ileal strips, while crocin had no effect. Furthermore, following oxidative stress, both crocin and kaempferol decreased intracellular ROS formation and increased cell viability in a concentration-dependent manner. The results indicate that SPE, a by-product of saffron cultivation, may represent a good source of phytochemicals with a potential application in the prevention of cardiovascular diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Keti Zeka
- Department of Haematology, Cambridge Biomedical Campus, University of Cambridge, Long Road, Cambridge CB2 0PT, UK;
| | - Pasquale Marrazzo
- Department for Life Quality Studies, Alma Mater Studiorum-University of Bologna, Corso d’Augusto 237, 47921 Rimini, Italy; (P.M.); (S.H.)
| | - Matteo Micucci
- Nutraceutical Lab, Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, Alma Mater Studiorum, University of Bologna, Via Belmeloro 6, 40126 Bologna, Italy; (A.C.); (R.B.)
- Correspondence:
| | - Ketan C. Ruparelia
- Leicester School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, De Montfort University, The Gateway, Leicester LE1 9BH, UK; (K.C.R.); (R.R.J.A.)
| | - Randolph R. J. Arroo
- Leicester School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, De Montfort University, The Gateway, Leicester LE1 9BH, UK; (K.C.R.); (R.R.J.A.)
| | - Guido Macchiarelli
- Department of Life, Health and Environmental Sciences, University of L’Aquila, Via Vetoio, Coppito 2, 67100 L’Aquila, Italy; (G.M.); (M.A.C.)
| | - Stefania Annarita Nottola
- Department of Anatomy, Histology, Forensic Medicine and Orthopaedics, La Sapienza University of Rome, 00161 Rome, Italy;
| | - Maria Adelaide Continenza
- Department of Life, Health and Environmental Sciences, University of L’Aquila, Via Vetoio, Coppito 2, 67100 L’Aquila, Italy; (G.M.); (M.A.C.)
| | - Alberto Chiarini
- Nutraceutical Lab, Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, Alma Mater Studiorum, University of Bologna, Via Belmeloro 6, 40126 Bologna, Italy; (A.C.); (R.B.)
| | - Cristina Angeloni
- School of Pharmacy, University of Camerino, Via Madonna delle Carceri 9, 62032 Camerino (MC), Italy;
| | - Silvana Hrelia
- Department for Life Quality Studies, Alma Mater Studiorum-University of Bologna, Corso d’Augusto 237, 47921 Rimini, Italy; (P.M.); (S.H.)
| | - Roberta Budriesi
- Nutraceutical Lab, Department of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, Alma Mater Studiorum, University of Bologna, Via Belmeloro 6, 40126 Bologna, Italy; (A.C.); (R.B.)
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49
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Bian Y, Zhao C, Lee SMY. Neuroprotective Potency of Saffron Against Neuropsychiatric Diseases, Neurodegenerative Diseases, and Other Brain Disorders: From Bench to Bedside. Front Pharmacol 2020; 11:579052. [PMID: 33117172 PMCID: PMC7573929 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2020.579052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2020] [Accepted: 09/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The increasing morbidity rates of brain disorders and conditions such as anxiety, depression, Alzheimer’s disease, and Parkinson’s disease have become a severe problem in recent years. Although researchers have spent considerable time studying these diseases and reported many positive outcomes, there still are limited drugs available for their treatment. As a common traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), saffron was employed to treat depression and some other inflammatory diseases in ancient China due to its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antidepressant properties. In modern times, saffron and its constituents have been utilized, alone and in TCM formulas, to treat neuropsychiatric and neurodegenerative diseases. In this review, we mainly focus on recent clinical and preclinical trials of brain disorders in which saffron was applied, and summarize the neuroprotective properties of saffron and its constituents from chemical, pharmacokinetic, and pharmacological perspectives. We discuss the properties of saffron and its constituents, as well as their applications for treating brain disorders; we hope that this review will serve as a comprehensive reference for studies aimed at developing therapeutic drugs based on saffron.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yaqi Bian
- State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine and Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, University of Macau, Macau, China
| | - Chen Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine and Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, University of Macau, Macau, China
| | - Simon Ming-Yuen Lee
- State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine and Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, University of Macau, Macau, China
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Li B, Qin K, Wang B, Liu B, Yu W, Li Z, Zhao D. Crocin promotes osteogenesis differentiation of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells. In Vitro Cell Dev Biol Anim 2020; 56:680-688. [PMID: 32935257 DOI: 10.1007/s11626-020-00487-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2020] [Accepted: 07/28/2020] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Crocin has plentiful pharmacological effects, but its role in osteogenesis differentiation of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) is unexplored. This study explored the effect of crocin on osteogenesis differentiation, in order to provide evidence for its clinical application. In cell experiments, human BMSCs (hBMSCs) were induced by osteogenesis differentiation medium or crocin. In animal experiments, steroid-induced osteonecrosis of the femoral head (SANFH) rat models was established using lipopolysaccharide (LPS) plus methylprednisolone (MPS), and then treated with crocin. The osteogenesis differentiation capacity of hBMSCs was analyzed by alkaline phosphatase (ALP) and alizarin red S staining. Histopathological changes in rat femoral head tissues were observed by hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) staining. The expression levels of RUNX2, COL1A1, OCN, and GSK-3β in hBMSCs and rat femoral head tissues were measured by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) or western blot (WB) analysis. ALP and alizarin red S staining demonstrated that LAP activity and calcium nodules were increased in hBMSCs treated with crocin. From H&E staining results, femoral head tissues of SANFH models showed typical osteonecrosis, which could be ameliorated by crocin. WB and qRT-PCR assays detected that the expression levels of RUNX2, COL1A1, and OCN in hBMSCs and femoral head tissues of models were obviously increased after crocin treatment, while GSK-3β phosphorylation was reduced. In general, the action of crocin was concentration-dependent. Crocin might be beneficial to the recovery of SANFH through accelerating osteogenesis differentiation of BMSCs, which might be a novel therapy for related diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Borui Li
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Dalian University of Technology, Dalian, China.,Department of Orthopaedics, Affiliated Zhongshan Hospital of Dalian University, No. 6, Jiefang Street, Dalian, 116001, Liaoning Province, China
| | - Kairong Qin
- School of Instrumentation Science and Opto-electronics Engineering, Dalian University of Technology, Dalian, China
| | - Benjie Wang
- Department of Orthopaedics, Affiliated Zhongshan Hospital of Dalian University, No. 6, Jiefang Street, Dalian, 116001, Liaoning Province, China
| | - Baoyi Liu
- Department of Orthopaedics, Affiliated Zhongshan Hospital of Dalian University, No. 6, Jiefang Street, Dalian, 116001, Liaoning Province, China
| | - Weiting Yu
- Department of Orthopaedics, Affiliated Zhongshan Hospital of Dalian University, No. 6, Jiefang Street, Dalian, 116001, Liaoning Province, China
| | - Zhigang Li
- Department of Orthopaedics, Affiliated Zhongshan Hospital of Dalian University, No. 6, Jiefang Street, Dalian, 116001, Liaoning Province, China
| | - Dewei Zhao
- Department of Orthopaedics, Affiliated Zhongshan Hospital of Dalian University, No. 6, Jiefang Street, Dalian, 116001, Liaoning Province, China.
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