Antiosteoporotic effect of Petroselinum crispum, Ocimum basilicum and Cichorium intybus L. in glucocorticoid-induced osteoporosis in rats

Impact of short and long-term application of low-level laser therapy on mandibular alveolar process of osteoporotic rats - a Histological and Molecular Study

This study aims to investigate and compare the effects of short and long-term application of low-level laser therapy on the mandibular alveolar process of osteoporotic rats. Forty adult male albino rats were included in this study. After animal grouping, the experimental group received dexamethasone (0.1 mg/kg b.wt./day for 60 days) for the induction of osteoporosis, then the rats were treated using LLLT (830 nm, 100 mW, at 60 J/cm2). The lower jaw specimens were collected and processed for histological, molecular, and histomorphometric assessments. The osteoporotic group exhibited alveolar bone resorption, accompanied by significantly upregulated RANKL and downregulated OPG mRNA expression. The short-term application of laser group showed alveolar bone partial improvement with slightly downregulated RANKL and slightly upregulated OPG levels. The long-term application of laser group showed dramatic positive changes in the alveolar bone, with markedly downregulated RANKL and upregulated OPG levels. LLLT shows potential as a low-risk and impactful local management for osteoporosis, with long-term laser application demonstrably improving bone quality, quantity, and organization compared to short-term application.

Renal health benefits and therapeutic effects of parsley (Petroselinum crispum): a review

Parsley (Petroselinum crispum) has been used in traditional medicine for its diverse health benefits, and recent research highlights its potential in promoting renal health due to its bioactive compounds. This review focuses on evaluating the renal health benefits and therapeutic effects of parsley, addressing the growing interest in natural interventions for kidney-related conditions. It aims to consolidate existing evidence while identifying research gaps to support parsley's integration into renal health management. A systematic review of scientific databases was conducted, identifying relevant studies on parsley's biochemical properties, including flavonoids, phenolic acids, terpenoids, and essential oils, which contribute to antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, diuretic, and nephroprotective effects. Animal studies demonstrated reductions in oxidative stress, improvements in metabolic biomarkers, and enhanced renal function, while limited human studies revealed modest improvements in urinary composition and renal health markers. However, parsley's safety profile, particularly at high doses, requires further investigation, including potential herb-drug interactions and safety during pregnancy. This review highlights parsley's therapeutic potential as a natural agent for renal health and underscores the need for robust clinical trials, long-term safety evaluations, and standardized methodologies to validate its clinical significance.

Phytochemistry, pharmacological applications, and therapeutic effects of green synthesized nanomaterials using Cichorium species-a comprehensive review

Cichorium is a genus of potential medicinal herbs that finds widespread cultivation in regions spanning Asia and Europe. Belonging to the Asteraceae family, these plants are typically biennial or perennial in nature. Among the various explored varieties of chicory plants, the most commonly studied ones include Cichorium intybus, Cichorium endivia, and Cichorium pumilum. In Ayurveda, chicory has long been used as a remedy for many health problems. This versatile plant is renowned for its efficacy in managing conditions such as gallstones, gastroenteritis, sinus ailments, and the treatment of skin abrasions and wounds. Numerous bioactives, including polysaccharides, caffeic acid, flavonoids, coumarins, steroids, alkaloids, organic acids, triterpenoids, sesquiterpenoids, and essential oils, are present, according to a thorough phytochemical examination. The phytochemicals isolated from chicory have displayed significant therapeutic activities, including antidiabetic effects, hepatoprotective benefits, anti-obesity properties, and anti-cancer potential, as extensively documented by numerous researchers. The incorporation of these bioactive compounds into one's diet as part of a healthy lifestyle has demonstrated considerable advantages for human well-being. Green synthesis is a recent technology in which plant extracts or phytochemicals are used for synthesizing nanoparticles since plant extracts are generally less toxic and contain capping and reducing agents. This review summarizes current developments in green synthesis employing phytoconstituents from Cichorium species and extracts from various plant parts and their application to scientific problems. In order to preserve lifestyles and cure human diseases, the investigation emphasizes the therapeutic effects of the chemical components and nanoparticles obtained from the extract of Cichorium species.

Anti-inflammatory, antiosteoporotic, and bone protective effect of hydroxysafflor yellow A against glucocorticoid-induced osteoporosis in rats

Osteoporosis is a common condition worldwide, affecting millions of people. Women are more commonly affected than men, and the risk increases with age. Inflammatory reaction plays a crucial role in the expansion of osteoporosis. Osteoporosis is characterized by a gradual decline in bone density and bone tissue quality, which increases fragility and raises the risk of fractures. We scrutinized the anti-osteoporosis effect of hydroxysafflor yellow A (HYA) against glucocorticoid-induced osteoporosis (GIOP) in rats. In-silico study was carried out on EGFR receptor (PDBID: 1m17), Estrogen Alpha (PDB id: 2IOG), MTOR (PDB id: 4FA6), RANKL (PDB id: 1S55), and VEGFR2 (PDB id: 1YWN) protein. For this investigation, Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats were used, and they received an oral dose of HYA (5, 10, and 20 mg/kg, b.w.) along with a subcutaneous injection of dexamethasone (0.1 mg/kg/day) to induce osteoporosis. The biomechanical, bone parameters, antioxidant, cytokines, inflammatory, nutrients, hormones, and urine parameters were estimated. HYA treatment significantly suppressed the body weight and altered the organ weight. HYA treatment remarkably suppressed the level of alkaline phosphatase, acid phosphatase, and improved the level of bone mineral density (total, proximal, mild, and dis). HYA treatment restored the level of calcium (Ca), phosphorus (P), estradiol (E2), and parathyroid hormone near to the normal level. HYA treatment remarkably altered the level of biomechanical parameters, antioxidant, cytokines, urine, and inflammatory parameters. HYA treatment altered the level of osteoprotegerin (OPG), receptor activator of nuclear factor kappa beta (RANKL) and RANKL/OPG ratio. The result clearly showed the anti-osteoporosis effect of HYA against GIOP-induced osteoporosis in rats via alteration of antioxidant, cytokines, inflammatory, and bone protective parameters.

Exploring the anti-osteoporosis potential of Petroselinum crispum (Mill.) Fuss extract employing experimentally ovariectomized rat model and network pharmacology approach

One of the most prevalent secondary osteoporosis is ovariectomy-induced osteoporosis. Parsley (Petroselinum crispum) has potent estrogenic and antioxidant properties and was used traditionally in the treatment of amenorrhea and dysmenorrhea. The present study aimed to characterize parsley leaf extract (PLE) employing RP-HPLC-MS-MS/MS-based method and possible protective effect in ovariectomized (OVX)-induced osteoporosis in rats was assessed. Rats were randomly assigned into SHAM group, OVX group, PLE + OVX group (150 mg/kg/day, p.o), and estradiol benzoate (E2) + OVX group (30 μg/kg/day, s.c). After eight weeks following ovariectomy, biomarkers of bone strength, bone resorption, oxidative stress and histopathology were carried out. A network pharmacology approach investigated the key targets and potential mechanisms by of PLE metabolites against osteoporosis using databases: PubChem, BindingDB server, DisGeNET, ShinyGO, and KEGG Pathway. Moreover, FunRich 3.1.3, Cytoscape 3.10.0, and MOE 2019.0102 softwares were used for network pharmacology analysis and molecular docking studies. Flavones and hydroxycinnamic acid derivatives were predominant among 38 metabolites in PLE. It significantly restored bone strength and bone resorption biomarkers, osteocalcin (OST), oxidative stress biomarkers and histopathological alterations. The employed network pharmacology approach revealed that 14 primary target genes were associated with decreasing the severity of osteoporosis. Molecular docking revealed that cGMP-PKG signaling pathway has the highest fold enrichment and its downstream PDE5A. Luteolin, diosmetin, and isorhamnetin derivatives affected mostly osteoporosis targets. PLE exhibited protective action against ovariectomy-induced osteoporosis in rats and may be a promising therapy for premenopausal bone loss. cGMP-PKG signaling pathway could be a promising target for PLE in treating osteoporosis.

Bio-active compounds and major biomedical properties of basil (Ocimum basilicum, lamiaceae)

Due to the numerous health benefits and therapeutic properties, herbs and plant metabolites/extracts are gaining popularity. This is particularly evident in the current era of drug resistance and the adverse effects of chemical drugs. Ocimum basilicum, also known as basil, has been extensively studied for its pharmacological benefits, including antimicrobial, antifungal, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antiviral, and wound healing properties. As a result, this plant has the potential to treat a wide range of diseases in both humans and animals. Ocimum basilicum contains various bioactive chemical compounds, such as neryl acetate, 1,8-cineole, p-allylanisole, geraniol, methyl eugenol, methyl chavicol, and trans-α-bergamotene. The latest advancements in technology can be utilised to enhance the beneficial properties of raw Ocimum basilicum extract. This review compiles and presents the profile of phytocomponents and pharmacological properties of Ocimum basilicum. The findings presented here will contribute to further research on this remarkable herb, aiming to develop effective pharmaceutical solutions for various health issues in humans and animals.

Petroselinum crispum (Mill.) Fuss (Parsley): An Updated Review of the Traditional Uses, Phytochemistry, and Pharmacology

Petroselinum crispum (Mill.) Fuss (parsley) is a popular medicinal plant widely used in different traditional medicines all over the world. This paper provides an updated review on the traditional use, phytochemistry, and pharmacological activities of parsley. Parsley contains volatile compounds such as terpenes and terpenoids in the essential oil, as well as phenolic compounds in the plant extract. Parsley is traditionally used as a diuretic, liver and stomach tonic, and for urolithiasis and indigestion. Pharmacological investigations also confirm several biological activities of parsley including hepatoprotective, nephroprotective, antiurolithiatic, neuroprotective, cardioprotective, and antineoplastic effects in animal and cell-based studies. Parsley has currently demonstrated several pharmacological activities in preclinical studies; however, there is a big lack in clinical evidence. Considering parsley as a possible valuable medicinal food, future clinical trials are recommended to evaluate the clinical efficacy and safety of the plant in different health conditions.

Antimicrobial and Other Pharmacological Properties of Ocimum basilicum, Lamiaceae

Since ancient times, various scientists and doctors have utilized different herbs to heal diseases. Due to the rise in drug resistance and the negative effects of chemosynthetic drugs, researchers and the general public around the world have become more interested in medicinal herbs and plant metabolites/extracts. This is due to its non-toxicity and its several health benefits when used to treat diseases in clinical and medical settings. Ocimum basilicum is one such plant, possessing a wide range of bioactive phytochemicals including alkaloids, phenolics, flavonoids, tannins, saponins, reducing sugars, cardiac glycosides, steroids and glycosides, as well as complex pharmacological activities, including anti-inflammatory, antifungal, antibacterial, antioxidant, wound healing and antiviral properties. The results of many studies on Ocimum basilicum plant extracts are collected and presented in this review. The plant extracts have excellent potential to be used as medicinal raw materials, and exhibit an extensive variety of therapeutic capacities, including antibacterial, antioxidant, wound healing, anti-inflammatory, antifungal, and antiviral properties.

The Therapeutic Potential of Two Egyptian Plant Extracts for Mitigating Dexamethasone-Induced Osteoporosis in Rats: Nrf2/HO-1 and RANK/RANKL/OPG Signals

The prolonged use of exogenous glucocorticoids, such as dexamethasone (Dex), is the most prevalent secondary cause of osteoporosis, known as glucocorticoid-induced osteoporosis (GIO). The current study examined the preventative and synergistic effect of aqueous chicory extract (ACE) and ethanolic purslane extract (EPE) on GIO compared with Alendronate (ALN). The phytochemical contents, elemental analysis, antioxidant scavenging activity, and ACE and EPE combination index were evaluated. Rats were randomly divided into control, ACE, EPE, and ACE/EPE MIX groups (100 mg/kg orally), Dex group (received 1.5 mg Dex/kg, Sc), and four treated groups received ACE, EPE, ACE/EPE MIX, and ALN with Dex. The bone mineral density and content, bone index, growth, turnover, and oxidative stress were measured. The molecular analysis of RANK/RANKL/OPG and Nrf2/HO-1 pathways were also evaluated. Dex causes osteoporosis by increasing oxidative stress, decreasing antioxidant markers, reducing bone growth markers (OPG and OCN), and increasing bone turnover and resorption markers (NFATc1, RANKL, ACP, ALP, IL-6, and TNF-α). In contrast, ACE, EPE, and ACE/EPE MIX showed a prophylactic effect against Dex-induced osteoporosis by modulating the measured parameters and the histopathological architecture. In conclusion, ACE/EPE MIX exerts a powerful synergistic effect against GIO by a mode of action different from ALN.

Health Benefits of Key Constituents in Cichorium intybus L

The genus Cichorium (Asteraceae) that originates from the Mediterranean area consists of six species (Cichorium intybus, Cichorium frisee, Cichorium endivia, Cichorium grouse, Cichorium chico and Cichorium pumilum). Cichorium intybus L., commonly known as chicory, has a rich history of being known as a medicinal plant and coffee substitute. A variety of key constituents in chicory play important roles as antioxidant agents. The herb is also used as a forage plant for animals. This review highlights the bioactive composition of C. intybus L. and summarizes the antioxidant activity associated with the presence of inulin, caffeic acid derivatives, ferrulic acid, caftaric acid, chicoric acid, chlorogenic and isochlorogenic acids, dicaffeoyl tartaric acid, sugars, proteins, hydroxycoumarins, flavonoids and sesquiterpene lactones. It also covers the plant's occurrence, agriculture improvement, natural biosynthesis, geographical distribution and waste valorization.

Alpinetin alleviates osteoporosis by promoting osteogenic differentiation in BMSCs by triggering autophagy via PKA/mTOR/ULK1 signaling

Osteoporosis, a systemic bone disease that is characterized by a reduction in bone mass and destruction of bone microstructure, is becoming a serious problem worldwide. Bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) can differentiate into bone-forming osteoblasts, and play an important role in maintaining homeostasis of bone metabolism, thus being a potential therapeutic target for osteoporosis. Although the phytochemical alpinetin (APT) has been reported to possess a variety of pharmacological activities, it is still unclear whether APT can influence the osteogenic differentiation of on BMSCs and if it can improve osteoporosis. In this study, we found that APT treatment was able to enhance osteogenic differentiation levels of human BMSCs in vitro and mouse ones in vivo as revealed by multiple osteogenic markers including increased alkaline phosphatase activity and osteocalcin expression. Mechanistically, the protein kinase A (PKA)/mTOR/ULK1 signaling was involved in the action of APT to enhance the osteogenic differentiation of BMSCs. In addition, oral administration of APT significantly mitigated the bone loss in a dexamethasone-induced mouse model of osteoporosis through strengthening PKA signaling and autophagy. Altogether, these data demonstrate that APT promotes osteogenic differentiation in BMSCs by augmenting the PKA/mTOR/ULK1 autophagy signaling, highlighting its potential therapeutic application for treating osteoporotic diseases.

Antiosteoporosis and bone protective effect of nimbolide in steroid-induced osteoporosis rats

BACKGROUND

Osteoporosis is a metabolic, hereditary, progressive disease characterized by unusual bone production across the skeleton and a loss the bone tissue microstructure and mass. In this experimental study, we scrutinized the antiosteoporosis effect of nimbolide against glucocorticoid (GCs) induced osteoporosis in rats.

METHODS

Swiss albino female rats were employed for the current experiment study and the rats were divided into different groups. Dexamethasone (0.1 mg/kg/day) was used for induction the osteoporosis and the rats were received the different doses of nimbolide (2.5, 5, and 7.5 mg/kg) for the estimation of bone protective effects. The body weight was estimated (initially and finally). Hormones, bone metabolic markers, bone turnover markers, bone structure, biomechanical, histomorphometric dynamic, biochemical markers, and histomorphometric static parameters were analyzed.

RESULTS

The body weight of GCs group rats considerably suppressed and nimbolide treatment remarkably improved the body weight. Nimbolide treated group exhibited the enhancement of bone metabolic, bone structure markers, and histomophometric dynamic markers, which was suppressed during the GCs-induced osteoporosis. GCs-induced osteoporosis rats exhibited the enhancement of procollagen type 1 C-terminal propeptide (P1CP), carboxy-terminal crosslinked telopeptide of type 1 collagen (CTX-1), Dickkopf-1 (DKK1), tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase 5b (TRACP 5b), and suppressed the level of bone alkaline phosphatase (BAP), which was reversed by the nimbolide treatment. Nimbolide treatment remarkably improved the level of estradiol and suppressed the level of parathyroid hormone (PTH), which was altered during the osteoporosis. Nimbolide treatment significantly (p < 0.001) improved the level of calcium, magnesium, and phosphorus in the serum and bone tissue. Nimbolide treatment also altered the level of bone metabolic markers and suppressed the level of inflammatory cytokines.

CONCLUSION

Based on the findings, we may conclude that nimbolide has antiosteoporosis properties via balancing the bone mass and improving vitamin and hormone levels.

Antiosteoporosis Studies of 20 Medicine Food Homology Plants Containing Quercetin, Rutin, and Kaempferol: TCM Characteristics, In Vivo and In Vitro Activities, Potential Mechanisms, and Food Functions

Dietary nutraceutical compounds have been evidenced as backbone for bone health in recent years. It is reported that medicine food homology (MFH) plants have multiple nutraceutical compounds. Based on our literature research, 20 MFH plants caught our attention because they contain three popular antiosteoporosis compounds simultaneously: quercetin, rutin, and kaempferol. According to traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), their characteristics including natures, flavors, attributive to meridian tropism, and efficacies were listed. The relationships between TCM efficacies, such as “heat clearing,” “tonic,” and “the interior warming,” and antiosteoporosis pharmacological actions such as antioxidant and immune regulation were discussed. The in vivo antiosteoporosis effects of the 20 MFH plants were summarized. The in vitro antiosteoporosis activities and related mechanisms of the 20 plants and quercetin, rutin, kaempferol were detailed. The TGF-β-Smad signaling, fibroblast growth factor, and Wnt/β-catenin signaling on bone formation and the RANKL signaling, NF-κB signaling, and macrophage-colony-stimulating factor on bone resorption were identified. From food point, these 20 MFH plants could be classified as condiment, vegetable, fruit, tea and related products, beverage, etc. Based on the above discussion, these 20 MFH plants could be used as daily food supplements for the prevention and treatment against osteoporosis.

Phoenix dactilyfera L. Pits Extract Restored Bone Homeostasis in Glucocorticoid-Induced Osteoporotic Animal Model through the Antioxidant Effect and Wnt5a Non-Canonical Signaling

Oxidative stress associated with long-term glucocorticoids administration is a route through which secondary osteoporosis can be developed. The therapeutic potential of Phoenix dactilyfera L. pits is offered by their balanced, valuable and diverse phytochemical composition providing protective potential against oxidative reactions, making it a good candidate to treat glucocorticoid-induced osteoporosis (GIO). This study evaluates the possible anti-osteoporotic effect of date pit extract (DPE) against dexamethasone (DEXA)-induced osteoporosis. Male rats were allocated into three control groups, which received saline, low and high doses of DPE (150 and 300 mg/kg/day), respectively. Osteoporosis-induced groups that received DEXA (1 mg/kg/day) were divided into DEXA only, DPE (2 doses) + DEXA, and ipriflavone + DEXA. Femoral bone minerals density and bone mineral content, bone oxidative stress markers, Wnt signaling, osteoblast and osteoclast differentiation markers, and femur histopathology were evaluated. DPE defeated the oxidative stress, resulting in ameliorative changes in Wnt signaling. DPE significantly reduced the adipogenicity and abolished the osteoclastogenic markers (RANKL/OPG ratio, ACP, TRAP) while enhancing the osteogenic differentiation markers (Runx2, Osx, COL1A1, OCN). In Conclusion DPE restored the balanced proliferation and differentiation of osteoclasts and osteoblasts precursors. DPE can be considered a promising remedy for GIO, especially at a low dose that had more potency.

Osteoporosis Due to Hormone Imbalance: An Overview of the Effects of Estrogen Deficiency and Glucocorticoid Overuse on Bone Turnover

Osteoporosis is a serious health issue among aging postmenopausal women. The majority of postmenopausal women with osteoporosis have bone loss related to estrogen deficiency. The rapid bone loss results from an increase in bone turnover with an imbalance between bone resorption and bone formation. Osteoporosis can also result from excessive glucocorticoid usage, which induces bone demineralization with significant changes of spatial heterogeneities of bone at microscale, indicating potential risk of fracture. This review is a summary of current literature about the molecular mechanisms of actions, the risk factors, and treatment of estrogen deficiency related osteoporosis (EDOP) and glucocorticoid induced osteoporosis (GIOP). Estrogen binds with estrogen receptor to promote the expression of osteoprotegerin (OPG), and to suppress the action of nuclear factor-κβ ligand (RANKL), thus inhibiting osteoclast formation and bone resorptive activity. It can also activate Wnt/β-catenin signaling to increase osteogenesis, and upregulate BMP signaling to promote mesenchymal stem cell differentiation from pre-osteoblasts to osteoblasts, rather than adipocytes. The lack of estrogen will alter the expression of estrogen target genes, increasing the secretion of IL-1, IL-6, and tumor necrosis factor (TNF). On the other hand, excessive glucocorticoids interfere the canonical BMP pathway and inhibit Wnt protein production, causing mesenchymal progenitor cells to differentiate toward adipocytes rather than osteoblasts. It can also increase RANKL/OPG ratio to promote bone resorption by enhancing the maturation and activation of osteoclast. Moreover, excess glucocorticoids are associated with osteoblast and osteocyte apoptosis, resulting in declined bone formation. The main focuses of treatment for EDOP and GIOP are somewhat different. Avoiding excessive glucocorticoid use is mandatory in patients with GIOP. In contrast, appropriate estrogen supplement is deemed the primary treatment for females with EDOP of various causes. Other pharmacological treatments include bisphosphonate, teriparatide, and RANKL inhibitors. Nevertheless, more detailed actions of EDOP and GIOP along with the safety and effectiveness of medications for treating osteoporosis warrant further investigation.

Antiosteoporosis and bone protective effect of dieckol against glucocorticoid-induced osteoporosis in rats

BACKGROUND

Glucocorticoids (GCs) induce osteoporosis, which results in fractures in the bond, causing significant morbidity. In the conducted study, we examined the antiosteoporosis effect of dieckol against GC-induced osteoporosis in rats.

METHODS

Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats were used for the current study and dexamethasone (2.5 mg/kg) induced osteoporosis in the rats that received the dieckol (test) and alendronate (standard) for 20 weeks. Bone turnover parameters, microCT, antioxidant, inflammatory cytokines, nutrient, and hormones parameters.

RESULTS

Dieckol noticeably suppressed the body weight and boosted the uterine and vagina weight. Dieckol considerably altered the level of trabecular number (Tb. N), the bone volume to total volume (BV/TV), trabecular separation (Tb.Sp), bone surface to bone volume (BS/BV), and t​r​a​b​e​c​u​l​a​r thickness (Tb.Th). Dieckol noticeably (P < 0.001) elevated the level of osteocalcin (OC) and alleviated the level of bone Gla protein (BGP), acid phosphatase (ACP), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), and β-CTx. Dieckol markedly boosted the level of malondialdehyde (MDA) and suppressed the level of glutathione (GSH), catalase (CAT), and superoxide dismutase (SOD) along with the suppression of inflammatory cytokines like TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6. Dieckol remarkably increased the level of calcium, potassium, magnesium, and 25 (OH) vitamin D. Dieckol substantially (P < 0.001) boosted the level of estradiol and alleviated the level of parathyroid hormone and tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase (TRAP). Dieckol also suppressed the level of receptor activator of nuclear factor κB ligand (RANKL) and boosted the level of osteoprotegerin (OPG).

CONCLUSION

Taken together, our data suggest that dieckol demonstrated the anti-osteoporosis effect against GC-induced osteoporosis in rats.

Perspectives on the Combined Effects of Ocimum basilicum and Trifolium pratense Extracts in Terms of Phytochemical Profile and Pharmacological Effects

Nowadays, the tendency in pharmaceutical and food industries is to replace synthetic antioxidants with the natural ones. For this reason, there is a growing interest in analyzing natural, healthy and non-toxic additives as potential antioxidants. Some plants, which contain high levels of phenolic compounds, present an increasing interest for medicine due to their ability to scavenge free radicals, along with other pharmacological activities, such as antibacterial activity, wound healing and anti-inflammatory effect, to mention only a few. The aim of this review is to explore the therapeutic potential of Ocimum basilicum and Trifolium pratense in relation with their phytochemical profile and to highlight the pharmacological activity of aqueous or ethanol extracts. Special attention was devoted to the dermal pathology and wound healing effects, in the context of multiple skin conditions such as acne, eczema boils, psoriasis and rashes. Additionally, both extracts (Trifolium sp. and Ocimum sp.) are characterized by high content of antioxidant compounds, which are responsible for the radiance and resistance of the skin and slowing down of the aging process by maintaining estrogen levels. Moreover, the potential combined effect of the mixed extract is pointed out in terms of future applications for wound healing, based on some preliminary results obtained from a “scratch tests” assay performed with respect to human dermal fibroblasts.

Antiosteoporotic effect of hesperidin against ovariectomy-induced osteoporosis in rats via reduction of oxidative stress and inflammation

Osteoporosis is a serious health problem, especially in geriatric patients. Worldwide, it affects 8.9 million people every year. Oxidative stress and inflammation expand the osteoporosis reaction. Hesperidin supplement helps to decrease inflammation and oxidative stress. In this study, we estimated the antiosteoporotic effect of hesperidin against the ovariectomized (OVX) rat model of osteoporosis. Hesperidin was orally administered at 5, 10, and 20 mg/kg to OVX rats for 10 weeks. Different biochemical parameters, such as alkaline phosphatase (ALP), osteocalcin (OC), phosphorus (P), calcium (Ca), and antioxidant parameters, were also estimated. The three-point bending test, bone mineral density (BMD), and histomorphometric features of the femoral bone were also scrutinized. Hesperidin significantly decreased body weight and increased uterine weight. Hesperidin significantly reduced the ALP, OC, acid phosphatase, and β-isomerized C-terminal telopeptides levels in OVX rats. Hesperidin considerably increased BMD and dose-dependently reduced the pixel density. Hesperidin considerably increased the maximum load, energy, stiffness, maximum stress, and young modulus. Hesperidin significantly (p < 0.001) reduced the levels of thiobarbituric acid reactive substance and increased the level of superoxide dismutase, glutathione, glutathione peroxidase, catalase in OVX-induced rats. Hesperidin significantly diminishes the cytokine levels, such as tumor necrosis factor-α, interleukin-6 (IL-6), and IL-1β, and inflammatory mediators such as nuclear factor-kappa B. It significantly reduced the level of Ca, P, and increased the level of vitamin D in OVX rats. Hesperidin significantly (p < 0.001) reduced the expression of sirtuin 1. Collectively, we can conclude that hesperidin exhibited better protection against osteoporosis by enhancing the bone density and bone mineral content in addition to biomechanical parameters.

Phytochemical and antioxidant analysis of medicinal and food plants towards bioactive food and pharmaceutical resources

Plants with medicinal properties play an increasingly important role in food and pharmaceutical industries for their functions on disease prevention and treatment. This study characterizes the phenolic composition and antioxidant activity of seven medicinal and food plants, including the leaves of Salvia officinalis L., Rosmarinus officinalis L., Olea europaea L., and Punica granatum L., as well as the leaves and young stems of Ruta graveolens L., Mentha piperita L., and Petroselinum crispum, Mill., by using colorimetric, chromatographic, and spectrophotometric assays. Results revealed that the hydro-methanolic leaf extracts of P. granatum (pomegranate) displayed the highest content of total phenols (199.26 mg gallic acid per gram of plant dry weight), ortho-diphenols (391.76 mg gallic acid per gram of plant dry weight), and tannins (99.20 mg epicatechin per gram of plant dry weight), besides a higher content of flavonoids (24 mg catechin per gram of plant dry weight). The highest antioxidant capacity measured by ABTS, DPPH, and FRAP (2.14, 2.27, and 2.33 mM Trolox per gram of plant dry weight, respectively) methods was also obtained in pomegranate leaf extracts, being 4–200 times higher than the other species. Such potent antioxidant activity of pomegranate leaves can be ascribed to the presence of different types of phenolic compounds and the high content in tannins, whilst phenolic acids and flavonoids were found to be the dominant phenolic classes of the other six plants. Consequently, despite the well-known antioxidant properties of these plant species, our study suggests pomegranate leaf can stand out as a relatively more valuable plant source of natural bioactive molecules for developing novel functional food-pharma ingredients, with potential for not only promoting human health but also improving bio-valorization and environment.

Oral treatment with a chemically characterized parsley (Petroselinum crispum var. neapolitanum Danert) aqueous extract reduces thrombi formation in rats

Petroselinum crispum var. neapolitanum Danert (Apiaceae) (PC), popularly known as parsley, is an herb native to the Mediterranean region widely cultivated around the world for culinary and ethnomedicinal purposes. The herb is traditionally used in various parts of the world to treat arterial hypertension, hemorrhoid, nose bleeding, hyperlipidemia, and pain, among other indications. The aim of this study was to evaluate the antithrombotic activity of an aqueous extract PC in rats. Aerial parts of a flat-leaf variety of parsley were extracted by decoction. In vivo thrombosis in rat models as well as ex vivo assays were used in the evaluation of PC antithrombotic effects. Intravenous administration of PC (25 mg/kg.b.w), 5 min before thrombosis induction, reduced the venous thrombus formation by 98.2%, while oral administration (125 mg/kg.b.w) impaired it by 76.2%. In the arterial thrombosis model, the oral administration of PC at 15 or 25 mg/kg.b.w, 60 min before thrombosis induction, increased the carotid artery occlusion time by 150% (37.0 ± 6.44 min) and 240% (more than 60 min), respectively. A HPLC-DAD-MS/MS profile of PC extract used in this study was provided. Apiin showed to be the most abundant phenolic compound in the extract. It also revealed the presence of many coumaric acid derivatives. Our results indicate that PC is a potential candidate for the development of a phytotherapeutic drug in the treatment of thromboembolic diseases and provide a detailed chemical profile useful for controlling PC extract production in view of phytotherapy.

A review of botanical characteristics, chemical composition, pharmacological activity and use of parsley

Parsley is a biennial aromatic plant from the Apiaceae family, which is characterized by an unbranched root, pinnately divided leaves, umbels and schizocarp. It contains essential oil in all parts, with phenylpropane and terpene compounds as main components. It is rich in flavonoids and other polyphenolic compounds, containing furanocoumarins, carotenoids, polyacetylenes, and its leaves are a source of vitamins and minerals. The chemical composition of parsley depends on a number of factors, so it differs not only in different parts and varieties of the plant but also in different samples of the same parts of one variety. The most important parsley compounds are myristicin, apiol, 1-allyl-2,3,4,5-tetramethoxybenzene, b-phellandrene, 1,3,8-p-menthatriene, b-pinene, terpinolene, apiin, oxypeucedanin and falcarinol. Parsley has a long tradition of use in the treatment of urinary tract disorders, and modern in vitro and in vivo studies reveal numerous effects of various parsley preparations such as diuretic, antiurolithiasis, hypouricemic, hypolipidemic, hypoglycemic, hypotensive, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and antiplatelet effect. Today, apart from its medical application, parsley is one of the most commonly used culinary herbs.

Ethnomedicinal Uses, Phytochemistry and Pharmacology of Different Cichorium Species (Asteraceae): A Review

Cichorium species have been used widely in traditional medicine universally. It is reported as a treatment for various respiratory and gastrointestinal disorders, as well as diabetes and rheumatism. A range of constituents including phenolic and poly phenolic compounds, fatty and organic acids and essential oils comprise the chemical composition of Cichorium species. Furthermore, modern investigations on these species has shown different pharmacological activities such as antioxidant, antiproliferative, anti-inflammation, antibacterial, anti-hyperglycemic, antidiabetic and hepatoprotective effects which are associated with divers molecular pathways and mechanisms. In this chapter, we have summarized comprehensive information regarding traditional and ethnomedicinal uses, phytochemical analysis and pharmacological aspects of Cichorium species.

Effects of soybean isoflavone on metabolism of rat osteoblasts and cytokines in vitro

The effects and mechanisms of soybean isoflavone on osteoblast (OB) proliferation in vitro were investigated. Fifty female Wistar rats were randomly divided into five groups with 10 rats in each group. Rat OBs were separated and cultured. The first generation of OBs cultured for 48 hr at various concentrations of isoflavone were set as the experimental groups, the OBs exposed to estradiol (E2 ) culture were considered as positive control group. The biological characterization of OBs was investigated by phase contrast microscopy and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) histochemistry. The concentrations of interleukin (IL-1), osteoprotegerin (OPG), transforming growth factor (TGF), granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor (GM-CSF), and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) in isoflavone culture solutions were determined. Proliferation rate of OBs was increased in experimental group comparing that in the blank group. ALP activity in experimental group was higher than that in blank group. No significant differences of ALP activity were observed between E2 culture group and isoflavone group at concentrations of 10-5 and 10-7 mM (P > 0.05). Furthermore, in the experimental groups at low isoflavone concentrations, the concentrations of OPG, TGF, and VEGF were increased and positively correlated with OB proliferation. However, the concentrations of IL-1, GM-CSF were decreased at higher concentration of isoflavone and were negatively correlated with OB proliferation. Soybean isoflavone could promote the growth and proliferation of rat OB, it might act as the stimulator of OPG, TGF, and VEGF pathway, and the inhibitor of IL-1, GM-CSF pathway as well.

Nebivolol enhances the effect of alendronate against methylprednisolone-induced osteoporosis in rats

This study aimed to assess the possible modulatory effect of nebivolol against methylprednisolone-induced osteoporosis in rats. Weekly administration of methylprednisolone (7 mg/kg), for six consecutive weeks caused significant increases in serum calcium, bone malondialdehyde, and hydroxyproline as well as serum alkaline phosphatase, but it significantly decreased serum phosphorous and osteocalcin, bone reduced glutathione, and nitric oxide (NO) as well as bone antioxidant enzymes activities compared with the control group. The results were confirmed by histopathological findings of femur bone. On the other hand, administration of alendronate (1 mg/kg) with nebivolol (1.5 mg/kg) orally and daily for seven consecutive days after methylprednisolone treatment caused marked mitigation in the above-mentioned parameters compared with methylprednisolone group. In conclusion, nebivolol proved to enhance the effect of alendronate in modulating methylprednisolone osteoporotic effect, which might be attributed to its release of NO together with its profound reducing capability in the oxidative cascade of bone tissue.

The Beneficial Effect of Proanthocyanidins and Icariin on Biochemical Markers of Bone Turnover in Rats

Nutrition is an important factor that influences bone metabolism, the endocrine and/or paracrine system, and bone-active mineral elements homeostasis. We studied antiosteoporotic effects of grape seed proanthocyanidins extract, icariin or alendronate (ALN) in retinoic acid-induced (13cRA) bone loss in rats. Proanthocyanidins and icariin have beneficial effects on bone health; they have improved the bone weight reduction, the length and the diameter of the bone, calcium, and phosphorus content in bone ash, bone mineral density (BMD), the biochemical markers of bone turnover and uterus atrophy induced by 13cRA. All results suggest that proanthocyanidins and icariin reverse osteoporosis in 13cRA rats by stimulating bone formation or regulating bone resorption by their antioxidative and estrogenic-like activity without toxic side-effects observed in ALN treatment.

Luteolin attenuates glucocorticoid-induced osteoporosis by regulating ERK/Lrp-5/GSK-3β signaling pathway in vivo and in vitro

Glucocorticoid-induced osteoporosis (GIO) is a secondary osteoporosis with extensive use of glucocorticoids (GCs). GCs can increase bone fragility and fracture via inhibiting osteoblastic proliferation and differentiation. Luteolin (LUT), a kind of plant flavonoid, has been reported to exhibit the antioxidant activity, but the effects of LUT on GIO still remain unclear. This study aimed to investigate the effects of LUT on GIO both in vivo and in vitro and elaborate the potential molecular mechanisms. LUT increased the superoxide dismutase activity, glutathione level and decreased reactive oxygen species (ROS) level and lactate dehydrogenase release in GIO. Meanwhile, LUT decreased caspase-3, caspase-9, and Bax protein expressions and increased Bcl-2 protein expression in GIO. LUT increased the ratio of osteoprotegerin (OPG)/receptor activator of nuclear factor-κB Ligand (RANKL) messenger RNA (mRNA) expression and mRNA expression levels of osteogenic markers, including runt-related transcription factor 2, osterix, collagen type I, and osteocalcin. LUT also enhanced the extracellular signal-regulated kinases (ERK) phosphorylation, glycogen synthase kinase 3β (GSK-3β) phosphorylation, mRNA expression levels of lipoprotein-receptor-related protein 5 (Lrp-5) and β-catenin. Further study revealed that Lrp-5 small interfering RNA (siRNA )and ERK-siRNA reduced the effects of LUT on GSK-3β phosphorylation, alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity and the ratio of OPG/RANKL mRNA expression. Moreover, ERK-siRNA decreased Lrp-5 mRNA expression in vitro. These results indicated that LUT promoted proliferation by attenuating oxidative stress and promoted osteoblastic differentiation by regulating the ERK/Lrp-5/GSK-3β pathway in GIO. This study may bring to light the possible mechanisms involved in the action of LUT in GIO treatment, and benefit for further research on GIO.

Osteoinductive effects of preoperative dexamethasone in human dental pulp stem cells primary culture

AIM

The use of dexamethasone (DEX) in mesenchymal cell culture induces osteoblastic differentiation and, consequently, formation of mineralized tissues. Tissue engineering proposes the development of therapeutic strategies aimed at structural and functional regeneration of biological tissues. In this sense, cell characterization in vitro is critical to ensure the development of such techniques. Our objective was to evaluate the osteoinductive effect of DEX administered as a preoperative medication in primary cell culture of human dental pulp stem cell.

METHODOLOGY

Cells from the third molar pulp were divided into two experimental groups, each with two preoperative medication protocols used in dental practice and differentiated by the intake of DEX in one of them. The assessment of proliferation, differentiation and viability through trypan blue, methylthiazol tetrazolium, and von Kossa and alizarin red assays, respectively, were held within fixed intervals: 7, 14, 21 and 28 days.

CONCLUSION

This study has shown that DEX may influence in vitro human dental pulp stem cell behavior.