Myricetin Increases Hepatic Peroxisome Proliferator-Activated Receptor α Protein Expression and Decreases Plasma Lipids and Adiposity in Rats

Comparative Analysis of Fluorescence Emission in Myricetin, Kaempferol, and Quercetin Powders and Solutions

Myricetin is a flavonol with high antioxidant properties. In this research, the fluorescence emission of myricetin powder and its solutions in different solvents were measured and analyzed by comparing with the results of calculations. Comparison of the calculated and measured characteristic wavelengths allowed the identification of all the spectral features in the fluorescence spectra of myricetin powder and solutions with different concentrations. The computation was based on modeling the process of the excited state intermolecular proton transfer, which predicts the formation of tautomeric forms of the flavonol molecule. Characteristic emission wavelengths were obtained using TDDFT/M06-2X/6-31++G(d,p). To understand the influence of the hydroxyl groups in the B-ring of the flavonol molecule on the emission spectrum, we also compared the fluorescence spectra of myricetin with those of kaempferol and quercetin. Moreover, based on the analysis of the changes in the shape of the FL spectra with the concentration of the solution, a criterion for the complete dissolution of the flavonol powders was established, which is important for bioavailability of flavonoids.

Myricetin: a potential plant-derived anticancer bioactive compound-an updated overview

The globe is currently confronting a global fight against the deadliest cancer sickness. Chemotherapy, hormonal therapy, surgery, and radiation therapy are among cancer treatment options. Still, these treatments can induce patient side effects, including recurrence, multidrug resistance, fever, and weakness. As a result, the scientific community is always working on natural phytochemical substances. Numerous phytochemical compounds, including taxol analogues, vinca alkaloids such as vincristine and vinblastine, and podophyllotoxin analogues, are currently undergoing testing and have shown promising results against a number of the deadliest diseases, as well as considerable advantages due to their safety and low cost. According to research, secondary plant metabolites such as myricetin, a flavonoid in berries, herbs, and walnuts, have emerged as valuable bio-agents for cancer prevention. Myricetin and its derivatives have antiinflammatory, anticancer, apoptosis-inducing, and anticarcinogenic properties and can prevent cancer cell proliferation. Multiple studies have found that myricetin has anticancer characteristics in various malignancies, including colon, breast, prostate, bladder, and pancreatic cancers. Current knowledge of the anticancer effects of myricetin reveals its promise as a potentially bioactive chemical produced from plants for the prevention and treatment of cancer. This review aimed to study the numerous bioactivities, mode of action, and modification of several cellular processes that myricetin possesses to impede the spread of cancer cells. This review also addresses the challenges and future prospects of using myricetin as a anticancer drug.

Deciphering the Effective Constituents and Mechanisms of Portulaca oleracea L. for Treating NASH via Integrating Bioinformatics Analysis and Experimental Pharmacology

Nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) is a highly prevalent metabolic disorder. Currently, there are no effective pharmacotherapeutic options for preventing and treating NASH. Portulaca oleracea L. (POL) is an edible herb that has been used for preventing and treating some metabolic disorders in China, but the bioactive constituents in POL and the related mechanisms for treating NASH are still unclear. Here, a comprehensive research strategy was used to identify the core genes and the key constituents in POL for treating NASH, via integrating bioinformatics analysis and experimental pharmacology both in vitro and in vivo. The phenotypes and mechanisms of POL were carefully investigated by performing a set of in vivo and in vitro experiments. Bioinformatics analysis suggested that prostaglandin-endoperoxide synthase 2 (PTGS2) was the core target and myricetin (Myr) was the key constituent in POL for treating NASH. In NASH mice model induced by methionine choline deficiency diet, POL significantly alleviated hepatic steatosis and liver injury. In free fatty acids-induced hepatocytes, POL and Myr significantly down-regulated the expression of PTGS2, decreased the number of lipid droplets, and regulated the mRNA expression of lipid synthesis and homeostasis genes, including FASN, CPT1a, SERBP1c, ACC1, and SCD1. In lipopolysaccharide-induced macrophages, POL and Myr significantly reduced the expression of PTGS2 and blocked the secretion of inflammatory mediators TNF-α, IL-6, and IL-1β. Further investigations demonstrate that Myr acts as both suppressor and inhibitor of PTGS2. Collectively, POL and its major component Myr can ameliorate NASH via down-regulating and inhibiting PTGS2, suggesting that POL and Myr can be developed as novel medicines for treating NASH.

Ameliorative Effect of Myricetin on Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease in ob/ob Mice

Obesity, insulin resistance, and oxidative stress are important risk factors for nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). This study aimed at determining the beneficial effects of myricetin against NAFLD in ob/ob mice. C57BL/6-Lep^ob/ob mice (n = 21) were fed an AIN-93G diet (ob/ob control group) or diet containing 0.04% (low myricetin; LMTN group) or 0.08% (high myricetin; HMTN group) myricetin, and lean heterozygous littermates (lean control group, n = 7) were fed AIN-93G diet for 10 weeks. HMTN consumption significantly lowered serum glucose levels and homeostasis model assessment for insulin resistance values in ob/ob mice. In addition to reducing serum triglyceride (TG) and cholesterol levels, HMTN significantly decreased total hepatic lipid and TG levels partly through downregulation of carbohydrate response element-binding protein and sterol regulatory element-binding protein 1c expression. The reduction in the levels of hepatic thiobarbituric acid reactive substances by HMTN likely resulted from the elevation of nuclear factor erythroid-2-related factor 2 expression. Tumor necrosis factor-α and monocyte chemoattractant protein 1 expressions were reduced by LMTN and HMTN, and HMTN also decreased interleukin-6 expression. These results suggest that myricetin has beneficial effects against NAFLD by regulating the expression of transcription factors of hepatic lipid metabolism, the antioxidant system, and pro-inflammatory cytokines.

Myricetin: A comprehensive review on its biological potentials

Myricetin is a critical nutritive component of diet providing immunological protection and beneficial for maintaining good health. It is found in fruits, vegetables, tea, and wine. The families Myricaceae, Polygonaceae, Primulaceae, Pinaceae, and Anacardiaceae are the richest sources of myricetin. Different researchers explored the therapeutic potential of this valuable constituent such as anticancer, antidiabetic, antiobesity, cardiovascular protection, osteoporosis protection, anti-inflammatory, and hepatoprotective. In addition to these, the compound has been tested for cancer and diabetic mellitus during clinical trials. Health benefits of myricetin are related to its impact on different cell processes, such as apoptosis, glycolysis, cell cycle, energy balance, lipid level, serum protein concentrations, and osteoclastogenesis. This review explored the potential health benefits of myricetin with a specific emphasis on its mechanism of action, considering the most updated and novel findings in the field.

Myricetin supplementation decreases hepatic lipid synthesis and inflammation by modulating gut microbiota

The relationship between poor in vivo bioavailability and effective pharmacological activity are not yet fully clarified for many flavonoids. The analysis of flavonoids-induced alterations in the gut microbiota represents a promising approach to provide useful clues to elucidate the mechanism of action. Here, we investigate the effect of myricetin supplementation on high-fat-diet (HFD)-induced nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) in rats and explore the associations with the gut microbiota through high-throughput analyses. The 12-week myricetin supplementation and fecal microbiota transplantation outcomes suggest that myricetin significantly slows the development of NAFLD. Meanwhile, the anti-NAFLD effects of myricetin are associated with the modulation of the gut microbiota composition. Myricetin reduces hepatic lipid synthesis and inflammation through modulations in fecal butyric-acid-related gut microbiota and protection of the gut barrier function. This study may facilitate the elucidation of the action mechanism of flavonoids with low bioavailability.

Molecular Simulation Study on the Interaction between Tyrosinase and Flavonoids from Sea Buckthorn

Isorhamnetin, kaempferol, myricetin, and quercetin are four kinds of secondary metabolites in sea buckthorn, which have a wide range of biological activities. Investigating their interactions with tyrosinase at the atomic level can improve the bioavailability of sea buckthorn. Both molecular docking and molecular dynamics simulation methods were employed to study the interactions of these ligands with tyrosinase. The results of molecular docking indicated that these four small molecules such as isorhamnetin, kaempferol, myricetin, and quercetin can all dock into the active center of tyrosinase, and by occupying the active site, they can prevent substrate binding, thereby reducing the catalytic activity of tyrosinase. Molecular dynamics simulation trajectory analysis showed that all tyrosinase-ligand complexes reach an equilibrium within 100 ns. In addition, quercetin has the lowest binding energy among these four ligands, and the complex with tyrosinase is the most stable. This study not only provides valuable information for improving the bioavailability of sea buckthorn but also contributes to the discovery of effective natural inhibitors of tyrosinase.

Development of reverse phase-high performance liquid chromatography (RP-HPLC) method for determination of selected antihypertensive active flavonoids (rutin, myricetin, quercetin, and kaempferol) in medicinal plants found in Botswana

The aim of the study was to develop a rapid, efficient, and cheap chromatographic method for determining four selected antihypertensive active flavonoid compounds in medicinal plants in Botswana. The determination of rutin, quercetin, and kaempferol in selected medicinal plants was conducted in less than 6 min using the developed reverse phase-high performance liquid chromatography (RP-HPLC) method with a 2.7 µm Ascentis C18 express column (150 × 4.60 mm i.d) at 340, 360, and 368 nm detection wavelengths and mobile phase of methanol and 0.068% of formic acid solution in isocratic elution. Validation results showed good selectivity, linearity (r 2 > 0.99), high percentage recoveries (90.2–104.7%), and precision (% RSD < 2) for n = 3, confirming suitability of the method for determination of the investigated flavonoids in Zingiber officinale (ginger). Application of the developed RP-HPLC method was performed in selected medicinal plants (Lippia javanica ) (mosukujane), Myrothanmus flabellious (galalatshwene), and Elephantorrhiza elephantina (mositsana) used to manage hypertension by herbalists in Botswana. M. flabellious a very commonly used plant for managing hypertension was found to contain highest amounts of rutin and myricetin, whereas nothing was detected for E. elephantina.

Natural Aldose Reductase Inhibitor: A Potential Therapeutic Agent for Non-alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease

Aldose reductase (AR) has been reported to be involved in the development of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Hepatic AR is induced under hyperglycemia condition and converts excess glucose to lipogenic fructose, which contributes in part to the accumulation of fat in the liver cells of diabetes rodents. In addition, the hyperglycemia-induced AR or nutrition-induced AR causes suppression of the transcriptional activity of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor (PPAR) α and reduced lipolysis in the liver, which also contribute to the development of NAFLD. Moreover, AR induction in non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) may aggravate oxidative stress and the expression of inflammatory cytokines in the liver. Here, we summarize the knowledge on AR inhibitors of plant origin and review the effect of some plant-derived AR inhibitors on NAFLD/NASH in rodents. Natural AR inhibitors may improve NAFLD at least in part through attenuating oxidative stress and inflammatory cytokine expression. Some of the natural AR inhibitors have been reported to attenuate hepatic steatosis through the regulation of PPARα-mediated fatty acid oxidation. In this review, we propose that the natural AR inhibitors are potential therapeutic agents for NAFLD.

Molecular mechanism of down-regulating adipogenic transcription factors in 3T3-L1 adipocyte cells by bioactive anti-adipogenic compounds

Obesity is growing at an alarming rate, which is characterized by increased adipose tissue. It increases the probability of many health complications, such as diabetes, arthritis, cardiac disease, and cancer. In modern society, with a growing population of obese patients, several individuals have increased insulin resistance. Herbal medicines are known as the oldest method of health care treatment for obesity-related secondary health issues. Several traditional medicinal plants and their effective phytoconstituents have shown anti-diabetic and anti-adipogenic activity. Adipose tissue is a major site for lipid accumulation as well as the whole-body insulin sensitivity region. 3T3-L1 cell line model can achieve adipogenesis. Adipocyte characteristics features such as expression of adipocyte markers and aggregation of lipids are chemically induced in the 3T3-L1 fibroblast cell line. Differentiation of 3T3-L1 is an efficient and convenient way to obtain adipocyte like cells in experimental studies. Peroxisome proliferation activated receptor γ (PPARγ) and Cytosine-Cytosine-Adenosine-Adenosine-Thymidine/Enhancer-binding protein α (CCAAT/Enhancer-binding protein α or C/EBPα) are considered to be regulating adipogenesis at the early stage, while adiponectin and fatty acid synthase (FAS) is responsible for the mature adipocyte formation. Excess accumulation of these adipose tissues and lipids leads to obesity. Thus, investigating adipose tissue development and the underlying molecular mechanism is important in the therapeutical approach. This review describes the cellular mechanism of 3T3-L1 fibroblast cells on potential anti-adipogenic herbal bioactive compounds.

Anti-Obesity Attributes; UHPLC-QTOF-MS/MS-Based Metabolite Profiling and Molecular Docking Insights of Taraxacum officinale

The naturopathic treatment of obesity is a matter of keen interest to develop efficient natural pharmacological routes for disease management with low or negligible toxicity and side effects. For this purpose, optimized ultrasonicated hydroethanolic extracts of Taraxacum officinale were evaluated for antiobesity attributes. The 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl method was adopted to evaluate antioxidant potential. Porcine pancreatic lipase inhibitory assay was conducted to assess the in vitro antiobesity property. Ultra-high performance chromatography equipped with a mass spectrometer was utilized to profile the secondary metabolites in the most potent extract. The 60% ethanolic extract exhibited highest extract yield (25.05 ± 0.07%), total phenolic contents (123.42 ± 0.007 mg GAE/g DE), total flavonoid contents (55.81 ± 0.004 RE/g DE), DPPH-radical-scavenging activity (IC50 = 81.05 ± 0.96 µg/mL) and pancreatic lipase inhibitory properties (IC50 = 146.49 ± 4.24 µg/mL). The targeted metabolite fingerprinting highlighted the presence of high-value secondary metabolites. Molecular-binding energies computed by docking tool revealed the possible contribution towards pancreatic lipase inhibitory properties of secondary metabolites including myricetin, isomangiferin, icariside B4, kaempferol and luteolin derivatives when compared to the standard drug orlistat. In vivo investigations revealed a positive impact on the lipid profile and obesity biomarkers of obese mice. The study presents Taraxacum officinale as a potent source of functional bioactive ingredients to impart new insights into the existing pool of knowledge of naturopathic approaches towards obesity management.

Flavonoids as antiobesity agents: A review

Obesity is a global health problem that affects all age groups in both developing and developed countries. In recent years, the prevalence of overweight and obesity has reached pandemic levels, resulting in a dramatic increase in the incidence of various comorbidities, such as cardiovascular diseases, type 2 diabetes, and cancer, consequently leading to massive health and socioeconomic burdens. Together with lifestyle changes, antiobesity pharmacotherapy is gaining momentum as an adjunctive treatment. However, the available pharmacological approaches have limited use owing to either significant adverse effects or low efficacy. Over the years, natural products have been an important source of lead compounds for drug discovery. Among these, flavonoids are associated with important biological effects and health-promoting activities. In this review, we discuss the modulatory effects of flavonoids on obesity and their potential mechanisms of action. The literature strongly suggests that most common flavonoids demonstrate a pronounced effect on obesity as shown by their ability to lower body weight, fat mass, and plasma triglycerides/cholesterol, both in in vitro and in vivo models. The impact of flavonoids on obesity can be observed through different mechanisms: reducing food intake and fat absorption, increasing energy expenditure, modulating lipid metabolism, or regulating gut microbiota profile. A better understanding of the known antiobesity mechanisms of flavonoids will enable their potential use to treat this medical condition. Therefore, this review focuses on the putative biological mechanisms through which flavonoids may prevent or treat obesity and highlights new perspectives on future pharmacological use.

Adipocytes: active facilitators in epithelial ovarian cancer progression?

There is growing evidence that adipocytes play important roles in the progression of multiple cancers. Moreover, in obesity, adipocytes alter their original functions and contribute to the metabolic and inflammatory changes of adipose tissue microenvironment, which can further enhance tumor development. At present, the roles of adipocytes in the pathogenesis of epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC) are far from being fully elucidated. Herein, we summarized the recent advances in understanding the roles of adipocytes in EOC progression. Adipocytes, close neighbors of EOC tissue, promote EOC growth, invasion, metastasis and angiogenesis through adipokine secretion, metabolic remodeling and immune microenvironment modulation. Moreover, adipocytes are important therapeutic targets and may work as useful anticancer drug delivery depot for EOC treatment. Furthermore, adipocytes also act as a therapeutic obstacle for their involvement in EOC treatment resistance. Hence, better characterization of the adipocytes in EOC microenvironment and the crosstalk between adipocytes and EOC cells may provide insights into EOC progression and suggest novel therapeutic opportunities.

Trapping Methylglyoxal by Myricetin and Its Metabolites in Mice

Trapping of methylglyoxal (MGO) has been determined to be one of the potential mechanisms for dietary polyphenols to prevent chronic diseases. In this study, myricetin was demonstrated to efficiently trap MGO to generate mono- and di-MGO adducts under in vitro conditions. Furthermore, the mono- and di-MGO adducts of myricetin were detected in urine and fecal samples collected from myricetin-treated mice based on LC-MS analysis. More importantly, the mono-MGO adducts of the mono- and di-methylated myricetin were also found in these mouse samples. Further dose-dependent studies demonstrated that myricetin and its methylated metabolites significantly trapped MGO in a dose-dependent manner with the 400 mg/kg dose having the highest trapping efficacy (mono-MGO-myricetin: 272.0 ± 90.9 nM in urine and 1.05 ± 0.67 μg/g in feces; mono-MGO-mono-Me-myricetin: 135.2 ± 77.6 nM in urine and 1.16 ± 0.65 μg/g in feces; and mono-MGO-di-Me-myricetin: 17.0 ± 5.9 nM in urine and 0.19 ± 0.04 μg/g in feces) compared to the 100 and 200 mg/kg doses. In conclusion, this study demonstrates for the first time the in vivo trapping efficacy of myricetin, suggesting that intake of myricetin-containing foods has the potential to scavenge MGO in vivo and to prevent MGO-induced harmful effects to human health.

The Protective Effects of Myricetin against Cardiovascular Disease

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the leading cause of death globally, except Africa, and poses a severe health burden worldwide. Both in vitro and in vivo studies have demonstrated the protective effects of myricetin for preventing CVD. For this review, we have assessed the literature from 2009 to 2019 at home and abroad to uncover the protective roles of myricetin for preventing CVD. Myricetin exhibits cardioprotective, anti-hypertensive, anti-atherosclerotic, anti-hyperglycemic, and anti-hyperlipidemic effects. In addition, myricetin may alleviate some of the complications caused by adult-onset diabetes. The combined functions of myricetin allow for the prevention of CVD. This review describes the possible therapeutic benefits of myricetin, along with its potential mechanisms of action, to support the clinical use of the myricetin for the prevention of CVD.

Plant-Based Antidiabetic Nanoformulations: The Emerging Paradigm for Effective Therapy

Diabetes mellitus is a life-threatening metabolic syndrome. Over the past few decades, the incidence of diabetes has climbed exponentially. Several therapeutic approaches have been undertaken, but the occurrence and risk still remain unabated. Several plant-derived small molecules have been proposed to be effective against diabetes and associated vascular complications via acting on several therapeutic targets. In addition, the biocompatibility of these phytochemicals increasingly enhances the interest of exploiting them as therapeutic negotiators. However, poor pharmacokinetic and biopharmaceutical attributes of these phytochemicals largely restrict their clinical usefulness as therapeutic agents. Several pharmaceutical attempts have been undertaken to enhance their compliance and therapeutic efficacy. In this regard, the application of nanotechnology has been proven to be the best approach to improve the compliance and clinical efficacy by overturning the pharmacokinetic and biopharmaceutical obstacles associated with the plant-derived antidiabetic agents. This review gives a comprehensive and up-to-date overview of the nanoformulations of phytochemicals in the management of diabetes and associated complications. The effects of nanosizing on pharmacokinetic, biopharmaceutical and therapeutic profiles of plant-derived small molecules, such as curcumin, resveratrol, naringenin, quercetin, apigenin, baicalin, luteolin, rosmarinic acid, berberine, gymnemic acid, emodin, scutellarin, catechins, thymoquinone, ferulic acid, stevioside, and others have been discussed comprehensively in this review.

Myricetin Modulates Macrophage Polarization and Mitigates Liver Inflammation and Fibrosis in a Murine Model of Nonalcoholic Steatohepatitis

This study aimed to investigate the beneficial effects of myricetin in a diet-induced nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) model and the underlying mechanism. C57BL/6J mice were fed a standard chow or the choline-deficient, L-amino acid-defined, high-fat diet (CDAHFD) for 8 weeks with the treatment of myricetin (100 mg/kg) or vehicle by daily gavage. Hepatic inflammation, steatosis, fibrosis, and hepatic stellate cells (HSC) activation were assessed. We also analyzed M1 and M2 macrophages and its related markers in livers from NASH mice and in RAW264.7 macrophages stimulated by lipopolysaccharide (LPS) or interleukin 4 (IL-4) in vitro. Furthermore, we determined the effect of myricetin on the triggering receptor expressed on myeloid cells-1 (TREM-1), toll like receptor (TLR) 2 and 4, and myeloid differentiation factor 88 (MyD88) signaling both in livers from mice and in RAW264.7 cells stimulated by LPS. Our results revealed that myricetin remarkably ameliorated hepatic steatosis, inflammation, and inhibited hepatic macrophage infiltration in CDAHFD-fed mice. Myricetin-treated to CDAHFD-fed mice also inhibited liver fibrosis and HSC activation when compared with vehicle-treated to those mice. Moreover, myricetin inhibited M1 macrophage polarization and its relative markers in livers of NASH mice while induced M2 polarization. Similarly, in vitro study, myricetin inhibited the LPS-induced mRNA expression of M1 macrophages marker genes and induced IL-4-induced M2 macrophage marker genes in RAW264.7 macrophages. Mechanically, myricetin inhibited the expression of TREM-1 and TLR2/4-MyD88 signaling molecules in livers from NASH mice and in RAW264.7 macrophages stimulated by LPS in vitro. Additionally, myricetin inhibited the activation of nuclear factor (NF)-κB signaling and the phosphorylation of the signal transducer and activation of transcription 3 (STAT3) in LPS-stimulated RAW264.7 macrophages. Taken together, our data indicated that myricetin modulated the polarization of macrophages via inhibiting the TREM-1-TLR2/4-MyD88 signaling molecules in macrophages and therefore mitigated NASH and hepatic fibrosis in the CDAHFD-diet-induced NASH model in mice.

Antioxidant Effects and Mechanisms of Medicinal Plants and Their Bioactive Compounds for the Prevention and Treatment of Type 2 Diabetes: An Updated Review

Diabetes mellitus is a metabolic disorder that majorly affects the endocrine gland, and it is symbolized by hyperglycemia and glucose intolerance owing to deficient insulin secretory responses and beta cell dysfunction. This ailment affects as many as 451 million people worldwide, and it is also one of the leading causes of death. In spite of the immense advances made in the development of orthodox antidiabetic drugs, these drugs are often considered not successful for the management and treatment of T2DM due to the myriad side effects associated with them. Thus, the exploration of medicinal herbs and natural products as therapeutic sources for the treatment of T2DM is promoted because they have little or no side effects. Bioactive molecules isolated from natural sources have been proven to lower blood glucose levels via regulating one or more of the following mechanisms: improvement of beta cell function, insulin resistance, glucose (re)absorption, and glucagon-like peptide-1 homeostasis. In recent times, the mechanisms of action of different bioactive molecules with antidiabetic properties and phytochemistry are gaining a lot of attention in the area of drug discovery. This review article presents an update of the findings from clinical research into medicinal plant therapy for T2DM.

Analysis of leaf flavonoid composition of some Iranian Cotoneaster Medik. (Rosaceae) species

The genus Cotoneaster consists of unarmed shrubs that naturally distributed in north parts of Iran. It is a problematic genus, and there are many discussions about its species number in Iran as well the World. Recently, M Khatamsaz has been listed 19 species of it in Iran. In the current research, we studied leaf flavonoid composition of seven Cotoneaster species from Iran. These species were harvested from the northern provinces of the country and their leaf ethanolic extracts were subjected to HPLC, for detection the types and amounts of their flavonoid compounds. We identified four flavonoid compounds: rutin, myricetin, quercetin, and kaempferol. The concentration of these flavonoids differed between the species, moreover amount of each flavonoid also varied among the studied species. All of them were registered in the studied species, except for myricetin, which was not observed in C. nummularius. The highest amount of flavonoids were detected in C. nummularius, while C. discolor had the lowest one. The evaluated species divided into four distinct group in UPGMA tree. According to CA-Joined plot, each group was characterized by species amount of flavonoid(s). All of evaluated species belonged to the same section of the genus, therefore our findings revealed that the flavonoid data were useful at sectional level for identification of the species.

Bioactive Compounds: Natural Defense Against Cancer?

Cancer is a devastating disease that has claimed many lives. Natural bioactive agents from plants are gaining wide attention for their anticancer activities. Several studies have found that natural plant-based bioactive compounds can enhance the efficacy of chemotherapy, and in some cases ameliorate some of the side-effects of drugs used as chemotherapeutic agents. In this paper, we have reviewed the literature on the anticancer effects of four plant-based bioactive compounds namely, curcumin, myricetin, geraniin and tocotrienols (T3) to provide an overview on some of the key findings that are related to this effect. The molecular mechanisms through which the active compounds may exert their anticancer properties in cell and animal-based studies also discussed.

Myricetin ameliorates atherosclerosis in the low-density-lipoprotein receptor knockout mice by suppression of cholesterol accumulation in macrophage foam cells

Background

Myricetin, a major flavonoid found in several foods including berries, grapes and wine, exhibited strong antioxidant potency, yet the effect on atherosclerosis is not fully understood. In this study, we examined the effect of myricetin on lipid accumulation in macrophage and atherosclerosis in atherosclerosis-prone low density lipoprotein receptor-deficient (Ldlr ^-/- ) mice.

Methods

Ldlr ^-/- mice were fed an atherogenic diet supplemented with myricetin (0.15% in the diet, v/v) for 8 weeks. Body weight, adipose tissue weight, food intake, serum biochemical parameters were measured. Atherosclerosis lesions and macrophages accumulaton in lesions were analyzed and quantified. Macrophages were exposed to 20 μM of myricetin before incubated with oxidized low-density lipoprotein (ox-LDL) (25μg/mL) or Dil-ox-LDL for the indicated time. Lipid uptake and foam cell formation were evaluated by flow cytometry and microscopy. The intracellular lipids were extracted and measured. mRNA expression and protein of cholesterol metabolism related receptors were analyzed.

Results

Myricetin administration reduced the weight, plasma lipid levels but not food intake in Ldlr ^-/- mice when fed an atherogenic diet. Myceritin-treated Ldlr ^-/- mice displayed significantly less atherosclerotic areas and macrophages in the cross sections of the aortic root. There were also less lipophilic areas in En face Oil red O staining of aorta from myceritin-treated Ldlr ^-/- mice. Myceritin treatment also markedly ameliorated ox-LDL-induced cholesterol accumulation in macrophages. The expression of CD36 were decreased in myricetin treated macrophages with ox-LDL incubation, while scavenger receptors class A (SR-A) and scavenger receptors class B (SR-BI) expression was not altered, indicating that these effect of myricetin were dependent on CD36 pathway.

Conclusions

Our findings indicated that myricetin suppressed cholesterol accumulation in macrophage foam cells by inhibition of CD36-mediated ox-LDL uptake, and suggested myricetin may have an important therapeutic function for atherosclerosis.

Syzygium cumini Leaf Extract Reverts Hypertriglyceridemia via Downregulation of the Hepatic XBP-1s/PDI/MTP Axis in Monosodium L-Glutamate-Induced Obese Rats

Syzygium cumini is used worldwide for the treatment of metabolic syndrome-associated outcomes. Previously, we described the antihypertriglyceridemic effect of the hydroethanolic extract of S. cumini leaf (HESc) in monosodium L-glutamate- (MSG-) induced obese rats. This study sought to investigate the molecular mechanisms underlying the antihypertriglyceridemic effect of HESc in MSG-obese rats. Newborn male Wistar rats were injected subcutaneously with MSG (4.0 g/kg/day, obese group) or saline 1.25% (1.0 mL/kg/day, lean group), from 2nd through 10th postnatal day. At 8 weeks old, obese rats started to be orally treated with HESc (0.5 or 1.0 g/kg/day, n = 7) or saline 0.9% (1 mL/kg/day, n = 7). Lean rats received saline solution (1 mL/kg/day, n = 7). Upon 8-week treatment, animals were euthanized for blood and tissue collection. Another set of adult nonobese Wistar rats was used for the assessment of HESc acute effects on Triton WR1339-induced hypertriglyceridemia. HESc reduced weight gain, as well as adipose tissue fat pads, without altering food intake of obese rats. HESc restored fasting serum glucose, triglycerides, total cholesterol, and free fatty acids, as well as insulin sensitivity, to levels similar to lean rats. Additionally, HESc halved the triglyceride content into very low-density lipoprotein particles, as well as healed liver steatosis, in obese rats. Hepatic protein expression of the endoplasmic reticulum chaperone GRP94 was decreased by HESc, which also downregulated the hepatic triglyceride secretion pathway by reducing the splicing of X-box binding protein 1 (XBP-1s), as well as protein disulfide isomerase (PDI) and microsomal triglyceride transfer protein (MTP) translational levels. This action was further corroborated by the acute inhibitory effect of HESc on triglyceride accumulation on Triton WR1339-treated rats. Our data support the downregulation of the XBP-1s/PDI/MTP axis in the liver of MSG-obese rats as a novel feasible mechanism for the antihypertriglyceridemic effect promoted by the polyphenolic phytocomplex present in S. cumini leaf.

Effect of Myricetin on Primary Open-angle Glaucoma

Background

Primary open angle glaucoma (POAG) is the most common form of glaucoma, with a multifactorial etiology that results in retinal ganglion cell death and loss of vision. In this study, we assessed the effects of myricetin on the trabecular meshwork cells in POAG.

Methods

In the in-vivo model, glaucoma was induced in Sprague-Dawley rats by injecting hyaluronic acid into the anterior chamber of the eye (every week for six-weeks). Treatment group rats were administered myricetin (25, 50 or 100 mg/ kg body weight via oral gavage) each day for of six weeks.

Results

POAG TM cells exposed to myricetin (25, 50 or 100 μM) exhibited significantly lowered reactive oxidative species (ROS) levels and lipid peroxidation products. The expressions of transforming growth factors (TGFβ1/β2), vascular endothelial growth factor, and senescence markers (senescence associated-β-galactosidase, cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitors-p16 and p21) were substantially down-regulated in POAG TM cells exposed to myricetin. Myricetin effectively prevented IOP elevation in glaucoma-induced rats and decreased inflammatory cytokines (IL-1α, IL-1β, IL-6, Il-8, TNF-α) in the aqueous humor and POAG TM cells of glaucoma-induced rats.

Conclusion

The observations of the study illustrate the protective effects of myricetin in glaucomatous TM cells.

Protective Effects of a Polyphenol-Rich Extract from Syzygium cumini (L.) Skeels Leaf on Oxidative Stress-Induced Diabetic Rats

Syzygium cumini (L.) Skeels has been reported to exert anti-inflammatory and cardiometabolic activities due to its high content of polyphenols. We characterized the chemical composition and assessed the antidiabetic effects of a novel polyphenol-rich extract (PESc) obtained from S. cumini leaf. Rats were injected with alloxan (150 mg/kg, ip, ALX group) and followed up for 7 days. Some were orally treated with PESc (50 mg/kg/day) for 7 days before and after diabetes induction (ALX-PP) or only for 7 days after alloxan injection (ALX-P). ALX-P and ALX-PP decreased fasting glycemia in 37 and 43%, respectively, as compared to ALX. Triglycerides and total cholesterol serum levels were also significantly reduced in comparison to ALX. PESc presented high polyphenol concentration (71.78 ± 8.57 GAE/100 g), with flavonoid content of 8.21 ± 0.42 QE/100 g. Upon HPLC-MS/MS and MS/MS studies, five main polyphenols-gallic acid, quercetin, myricetin, and its derivatives-were identified. Myricetin was predominant (192.70 ± 16.50 μg/mg PESc), followed by measurable amounts of gallic acid (11.15 ± 0.90 μg/mg PESc) and quercetin (4.72 ± 0.06 μg/mg PESc). Kinetic assessment of total antioxidant capacity revealed PESc high potency, since maximum response was reached within 5 min reaction time in a concentration-dependent manner. Specific antioxidant activity of PESc was assessed against both DPPH^• and ABTS^•+, showing strong activity (IC₅₀: 3.88 ± 1.09 and 5.98 ± 1.19 μg/mL, resp.). PESc also inhibited lipoxygenase activity (IC₅₀: 27.63 ± 8.47), confirming its antioxidant activity also on biologically relevant radicals. Finally, PESc induced insulin secretion by directly stimulating INS-1E β cells in the absence of any cytotoxic effect. Overall, our results support that PESc is a potent antioxidant phytocomplex with potential pharmacological use as a preventive antidiabetic natural product.

Myricetin, a potent natural agent for treatment of diabetic skin damage by modulating TIMP/MMPs balance and oxidative stress

Foot ulceration is a major cause of morbidity in patients with diabetes, and abnormal peripheral neuropathy often results in hospitalization. Up-regulation of matrix metalloproteinases and down-regulation of tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase 1 are noted to be distinctive biological functions of diabetic dermal fibroblasts. The aim of this study was to evaluate the biological effects of modified retinoids on diabetic fibroblasts. Myricetin, a natural compound, balances the TIMP1/MMP ratio and oxidative stress in diabetic fibroblasts. Our results indicate that myricetin significantly ameliorates the effects of diabetes on dermal fibroblasts. In addition, we found that the oxidative stress imbalance induced by a high glucose concentration plays an important role in the changes to dermal fibroblasts that occur in diabetes. Our findings support the hypothesis that myricetin has the potential to repair faulty skin function arising from diabetes.

Sulforaphane and myricetin act synergistically to induce apoptosis in 3T3‑L1 adipocytes

The aim of the present study was to investigate whether sulforaphane (SFN) and myricetin (Myr) synergistically induce apoptosis in adipocytes. The viability of mature 3T3-L1 adipocytes treated with 40 µM SFN and/or 100 µM Myr was assessed using an MTT assay. Apoptosis was assessed by Hoechst 33258 nuclear staining, and by detection of single-stranded DNA using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Compared with the effects of each compound alone, the combination of SFN and Myr synergistically reduced cell viability, induced apoptosis, increased pro-apoptotic Bcl-2 associated X protein expression, decreased anti-apoptotic B-cell lymphoma-2 expression, enhanced Bcl-2-associated death promoter (Bad) translocation from the cytoplasm to the mitochondria, and reduced Bad phosphorylation at Ser112. These effects were accompanied by increased cleavage of caspase 3 and poly-ADP-ribose-polymerase. In addition, combined SFN and Myr treatment significantly decreased the protein expression levels of phosphorylated AKT serine/threonine kinase 1 (Akt) at Ser473, as well as the phosphorylation of the downstream protein ribosomal protein, S6 kinase β-1. Therefore, SFN plus Myr was a more potent inducer of apoptosis in 3T3-L1 adipocytes than either compound alone. The results of the present study suggest that the mechanism of SNF/Myr-induced apoptosis involved activation of the Akt-mediated mitochondrial apoptotic pathway. This may aid treatment of animal models of obesity and preclinical testing.

Regressive Effect of Myricetin on Hepatic Steatosis in Mice Fed a High-Fat Diet

Myricetin is an effective antioxidant in the treatment of obesity and obesity-related metabolic disorders. The objective of this study was to explore the regressive effect of myricetin on pre-existing hepatic steatosis induced by high-fat diet (HFD). C57BL/6 mice were fed either a standard diet or a HFD for 12 weeks and then half of the mice were treated with myricetin (0.12% in the diet, w/w) while on their respective diets for further 12 weeks. Myricetin treatment significantly alleviated HFD-induced steatosis, decreased hepatic lipid accumulation and thiobarbituric acid reactive substance (TBARS) levels, and increased antioxidative enzyme activities, including catalase (CAT), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and glutathione peroxidase (GPx) activities. Microarray analysis of hepatic gene expression profiles showed that myricetin significantly altered the expression profiles of 177 genes which were involved in 12 biological pathways, including the peroxisome proliferator activated receptor (PPAR) signaling pathway and peroxisome. Further research indicated that myricetin elevated hepatic nuclear Nrf2 translocation, increased the protein expression of heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) and NAD(P)H quinone dehydrogenase 1 (NQO1), reduced the protein expression of PPARγ, and normalized the expressions of genes that were involved in peroxisome and the PPAR signaling pathway. Our data indicated that myricetin might represent an effective therapeutic agent to treat HFD-induced hepatic steatosis via activating the Nrf2 pathway and the PPAR signaling pathway.

Modulation of PPAR Expression and Activity in Response to Polyphenolic Compounds in High Fat Diets

Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPAR) are transcription factors that modulate energy metabolism in liver, adipose tissue and muscle. High fat diets (HFD) can negatively impact PPAR expression or activity, favoring obesity, dyslipidemia, insulin resistance and other conditions. However, polyphenols (PP) found in vegetable foodstuffs are capable of positively modulating this pathway. We therefore focused this review on the possible effects that PP can have on PPAR when administered together with HFD. We found that PP from diverse sources, such as coffee, olives, rice, berries and others, are capable of inducing the expression of genes involved in a decrease of adipose mass, liver and serum lipids and lipid biosynthesis in animal and cell models of HFD. Since cells or gut bacteria can transform PP into different metabolites, it is possible that a synergistic or antagonistic effect ultimately occurs. PP molecules from vegetable sources are an interesting option to maintain or return to a state of energy homeostasis, possibly due to an adequate PPAR expression and activity.

Polyphenol-Rich Extract of Syzygium cumini Leaf Dually Improves Peripheral Insulin Sensitivity and Pancreatic Islet Function in Monosodium L-Glutamate-Induced Obese Rats

Syzygium cumini (L.) Skeels (Myrtaceae) has been traditionally used to treat a number of illnesses. Ethnopharmacological studies have particularly addressed antidiabetic and metabolic-related effects of extracts prepared from its different parts, especially seed, and pulp-fruit, however. there is a lack of studies on phytochemical profile and biological properties of its leaf. As there is considerable interest in bioactive compounds to treat metabolic syndrome and its clustered risk factors, we sought to characterize the metabolic effects of hydroethanolic extract of S. cumini leaf (HESc) on lean and monosodium L-glutamate (MSG)-induced obese rats. HPLC-MS/MS characterization of the HESc polyphenolic profile, at 254 nm, identified 15 compounds pertaining to hydrolysable tannin and flavanol subclasses. At 60 days of age, both groups were randomly assigned to receive HESc (500 mg/kg) or vehicle for 30 days. At the end of treatment, obese+HESc exhibited significantly lower body weight gain, body mass index, and white adipose tissue mass, compared to obese rats receiving vehicle. Obese rats treated with HESc showed a twofold increase in lipolytic activity in the periepididymal fat pad, as well as, brought triglyceride levels in serum, liver and skeletal muscle back to levels close those found in lean animals. Furthermore, HESc also improved hyperinsulinemia and insulin resistance in obese+HESc rats, which resulted in partial reversal of glucose intolerance, as compared to obese rats. HESc had no effect in lean rats. Assessment of ex vivo glucose-stimulated insulin secretion showed HESc potentiated pancreatic function in islets isolated from both lean and obese rats treated with HESc. In addition, HESc (10–1000 μg/mL) increased glucose stimulated insulin secretion from both isolated rat islets and INS-1E β-cells. These data demonstrate that S. cumini leaf improved peripheral insulin sensitivity via stimulating/modulating β-cell insulin release, which was associated with improvements in metabolic outcomes in MSG-induced obese rats.

Myricetin: A Dietary Molecule with Diverse Biological Activities

Myricetin is a common plant-derived flavonoid and is well recognised for its nutraceuticals value. It is one of the key ingredients of various foods and beverages. The compound exhibits a wide range of activities that include strong anti-oxidant, anticancer, antidiabetic and anti-inflammatory activities. It displays several activities that are related to the central nervous system and numerous studies have suggested that the compound may be beneficial to protect against diseases such as Parkinson's and Alzheimer's. The use of myricetin as a preserving agent to extend the shelf life of foods containing oils and fats is attributed to the compound's ability to protect lipids against oxidation. A detailed search of existing literature revealed that there is currently no comprehensive review available on this important molecule. Hence, the present work includes the history, synthesis, pharmaceutical applications and toxicity studies of myricetin. This report also highlights structure-activity relationships and mechanisms of action for various biological activities.

Artemisia annua Leaf Extract Attenuates Hepatic Steatosis and Inflammation in High-Fat Diet-Fed Mice

Artemisia annua L. (AA) is a well-known source of the antimalarial drug artemisinin. AA also has an antibacterial and antioxidant activity. However, the effect of AA extract on hepatic steatosis induced by obesity is unclear. We investigated whether AA extract prevents obesity-induced insulin resistance and hepatic steatosis in high-fat diet (HFD)-fed mice. Mice were randomly divided into groups that received a normal chow diet or HFD with or without AA for 12 weeks. We found that AA extract reduced insulin resistance and hepatic steatosis in HFD-fed mice. Western blot analysis showed that HFD-induced expression of nuclear sterol regulatory element-binding protein 1 and carbohydrate-responsive element-binding protein in the livers was decreased by AA extract. In particular, dietary administration of AA extract decreased hepatic high-mobility group box 1 and cyclooxygenase-2 expression in HFD-fed mice. AA extract also attenuated HFD-induced collagen deposition and fibrosis-related transforming growth factor-β1 and connective tissue growth factor. These data indicate that dietary AA extract has beneficial effects on hepatic steatosis and inflammation in HFD-fed mice.

Supplementation of fresh ucche (Momordica charantia L. var. muricata Willd) prevented oxidative stress, fibrosis and hepatic damage in CCl4 treated rats

Background

Ucche (Momordica charantia L. var. muricata (Willd.) Chakravarty) has been reported to possess many benefits and medicinal properties. However, the protective effect of ucche against carbon tetrachloride (CCl₄) induced hepatotoxicity have not been clarified fully yet. The aim of the present study was to investigate the effects of ucche on oxidative stress and inflammation in liver of CCl₄ treated rats.

Methods

Female Long Evans rats were administered with CCl₄ orally (1 ml/kg) twice a week for 2 weeks and were supplemented with freshly prepared crashed ucche (10% wt/wt of diet) with powdered chaw food. Both plasma and liver tissues were analyzed for AST, ALT and ALP activities. Oxidative stress parameters were measure by determining malondialdehyde (MDA), nitric oxide (NO), advanced protein oxidation product (APOP), and reduced glutathione (GSH) concentrations and catalase activities in plasma and liver tissues. Moreover, inflammation and tissue fibrosis were confirmed by histological staining of liver tissue sections.

Results

Our data suggest that ucche significantly prevented CCl₄-induced hepatotoxicity, indicated by both diagnostic indicators of liver damage (serum transferases activities) and histopathological analysis. Moreover, CCl₄ administration induced profound elevation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) production and oxidative stress, as evidenced by increasing lipid peroxidation level and depletion of antioxidant enzymes in liver. Fresh ucche supplementation prevented the oxidative stresses and improved antioxidant enzyme function. Furthermore, fresh ucche supplementation reduced hepatic inflammatory cell infiltration, iron deposition and fibrosis in liver of CCl₄ treated rats.

Conclusion

In conclusion, these results suggested that the inhibition of CCl₄-induced inflammation by ucche is due at least in part to its anti-oxidant activity and its ability to modulate the inflammation and fibrosis in liver.

Myricetin suppresses differentiation of 3 T3-L1 preadipocytes and enhances lipolysis in adipocytes

Myricetin (MyR), a naturally occurring flavonol widely distributed in fruits, vegetables, and medicinal plants, has anticancer, anti-inflammatory, antihyperlipidaemic, and antiobesity activities. In the present study, we hypothesized that the antiobesity property of MyR is mediated via suppression of differentiation of preadipocytes into adipocytes and promotion of lipolysis of mature adipocytes, which effectively decrease the intracellular triglyceride concentration of adipocytes. Accordingly, the aim of this work was to investigate the effects of MyR on adipocyte differentiation and lipolysis in differentiated 3 T3-L1 adipocytes. Our results showed that MyR inhibited differentiation of 3 T3-L1 preadipocytes in a concentration-dependent manner. Myricetin downregulated the mRNA and protein levels of CCAAT/enhancer-binding protein α and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ, both of which are major adipogenic transcription factors. Furthermore, the mRNA levels of other adipogenesis-related transcription factors, namely, CCAAT/enhancer-binding protein β, sterin regulatory element binding protein 1-c, peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ coactivator-1, adipocyte protein 2, lipoprotein lipase and glucose transporter 4, were also reduced by MyR treatment. Moreover, MyR significantly inhibited the phosphorylation of extracellular signal-regulated kinase, Jun N-terminal kinase, and p38 during the differentiation process. On the other hand, MyR induced a dose-dependent increase in glycerol release in fully differentiated adipocytes, indicating its stimulatory effect on adipocyte lipolysis. Furthermore, MyR downregulated mRNA level of perilipin A and enhanced the phosphorylation level of extracellular signal-regulated kinase, Jun N-terminal kinase, and p38 during lipolysis. Taken together, these findings indicate that MyR exerts antiobesity activity in adipocytes.

Antidiabetic and antilipidemic effects of Manilkara zapota

Manilkara zapota is a tropical evergreen tree belonging to the Sapotaceae family; its parts are used in alternative medicine to treat coughs and colds and possess diuretic, antidiarrheal, antibiotic, antihyperglycemic, and hypocholesterolemic effects. There are no studies on metabolic profile after using the fruit, and this study aimed at evaluating the effects of the leaf and pulp of M. zapota fruit on the metabolic profile of Wistar rats. Male rats were treated for 50 days with M. zapota leaf juice or fruit juice, after which their biochemical and body composition profiles were analyzed (glycemia, triglycerides, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-c), insulin, leptin, aspartate transaminase, alanine aminotransferase, Lee Index, and body mass index). Our results indicate significantly lower levels of glycemia, insulin, leptin, cholesterol, and triglycerides and augmented levels of HDL-c in animals treated with the leaves or fruit of this plant. The percentage of weight gain also declined in animals treated with M. zapota fruit pulp. The use of the M. zapota may be helpful in the prevention of obesity, diabetes, dyslipidemia, and their complications.

Ameliorative effect of myricetin on insulin resistance in mice fed a high-fat, high-sucrose diet

BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES

Obesity-associated insulin resistance is a strong risk factor for type 2 diabetes mellitus. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of myricetin on adiposity, insulin resistance, and inflammatory markers in mice with diet-induced insulin resistance.

MATERIALS/METHODS

Five-week-old male C57BL/6J mice were fed a basal diet, a high-fat, high-sucrose (HFHS) diet, or the HFHS diet containing 0.06% myricetin or 0.12% myricetin for 12 weeks after a 1-week adaptation, and body weight and food intake were monitored. After sacrifice, serum lipid profiles, glucose, insulin, adipocyte-derived hormones, and proinflammatory cytokines were measured. The homeostasis model assessment for insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) was determined.

RESULTS

Myricetin given at 0.12% of the total diet significantly reduced body weight, weight gain, and epidydimal white adipose tissue weight, and improved hypertriglyceridemia and hypercholesterolemia without a significant influence on food intake in mice fed the HFHS diet. Serum glucose and insulin levels, as well as HOMA-IR values, decreased significantly by 0.12% myricetin supplementation in mice fed the HFHS diet. Myricetin given at 0.12% of the total diet significantly reduced serum levels of leptin, tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) and interleukin-6 (IL-6) in mice fed the HFHS diet.

CONCLUSIONS

These findings suggest that myricetin may have a protective effect against diet-induced obesity and insulin resistance in mice fed HFHS diet, and that alleviation of insulin resistance could partly occur by improving obesity and reducing serum proinflammatory cytokine levels.

Herbal medicines for the treatment of nonalcoholic steatohepatitis: current scenario and future prospects

Nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) is a multifactorial disease and has close correlations with other metabolic disorders. This makes its treatment difficult using a single pharmacological drug. Use of plant extract/decoction or polyherbal formulation to treat various liver diseases is very well mentioned in various traditional systems of medicine (Ayurveda, Japanese or traditional Chinese Medicine, and Kampo medicine). Medicinal herbs are known for their multifaceted implications and thus can form an effective treatment schedule against NASH. Till date, several plant extracts, polyherbal formulations, and phytochemicals have been evaluated for their possible therapeutic potential in preventing onset and progression of NASH in experimental models, but clinical studies using the same are sparse. Herbal extracts with antioxidants, antidiabetic, and antihyperlipidemic properties have been shown to ameliorate symptoms of NASH. This review article is a meticulous compilation of our current knowledge on the role of natural products in alleviating NASH and possible lacunae in research that needs to be addressed.

Antiartherosclerotic effects of plant flavonoids

Atherosclerosis is the process of hardening and narrowing the arteries. Atherosclerosis is generally associated with cardiovascular diseases such as strokes, heart attacks, and peripheral vascular diseases. Since the usage of the synthetic drug, statins, leads to various side effects, the plants flavonoids with antiartherosclerotic activity gained much attention and were proven to reduce the risk of atherosclerosis in vitro and in vivo based on different animal models. The flavonoids compounds also exhibit lipid lowering effects and anti-inflammatory and antiatherogenic properties. The future development of flavonoids-based drugs is believed to provide significant effects on atherosclerosis and its related diseases. This paper discusses the antiatherosclerotic effects of selected plant flavonoids such as quercetin, kaempferol, myricetin, rutin, naringenin, catechin, fisetin, and gossypetin.

Role of adipokines and cytokines in obesity-associated breast cancer: therapeutic targets

Obesity is the cause of a large proportion of breast cancer incidences and mortality in post-menopausal women. In obese people, elevated levels of various growth factors such as insulin and insulin-like growth factors (IGFs) are found. Elevated insulin level leads to increased secretion of estrogen by binding to the circulating sex hormone binding globulin (SHBG). The increased estrogen-mediated downstream signaling favors breast carcinogenesis. Obesity leads to altered expression profiles of various adipokines and cytokines including leptin, adiponectin, IL-6, TNF-α and IL-1β. The increased levels of leptin and decreased adiponectin secretion are directly associated with breast cancer development. Increased levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines within the tumor microenvironment promote tumor development. Efficacy of available breast cancer drugs against obesity-associated breast cancer is yet to be confirmed. In this review, we will discuss different adipokine- and cytokine-mediated molecular signaling pathways involved in obesity-associated breast cancer, available therapeutic strategies and potential therapeutic targets for obesity-associated breast cancer.

Phytochemicals targeting genes relevant for type 2 diabetes

Nutrigenomic approaches based on ethnopharmacology and phytotherapy concepts have revealed that type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) may be susceptible to dietary intervention. Interaction between bioactive food components and the genome may influence cell processes and modulate the onset and progression of the disease. T2DM, characterized by insulin resistance and beta cell dysfunction, is one of the leading causes of death and disability. Despite the great advances that have been made in the understanding and management of this complex, multifactorial disease, T2DM has become a worldwide epidemic in the 21st century. Population and family studies have revealed a strong genetic component of T2DM, and a number of candidate genes have been identified in humans. Variations in the gene sequences such as single nucleotide polymorphisms, explain the individual differences in traits like disease susceptibility and response to treatment. A clear understanding of how nutrients affect the expression of genes should facilitate the development of individualized intervention and, eventually, treatment strategies for T2DM. Review of the literature identified many phytochemicals/extracts from traditional medicinal plants that can target diabetogenic genes. This review focuses on the genetic aspects of T2DM, nutrient modification of genes relevant for diabetes, and future prospects of nutritional therapy of T2DM.