Hepatoprotective activity of Terminalia catappa L. leaves and its two triterpenoids

Medicinal herbs and their metabolites with biological potential to protect and combat liver toxicity and its disorders: A review

The liver is an essential organ that helps the body with immunity, metabolism, and detoxification, among other functions. Worldwide, liver illnesses are a leading cause of mortality and disability. There are few effective treatment choices, but they frequently have unfavorable side effects. Investigating the potential of medicinal plants and their bioactive phytoconstituents in the prevention and treatment of liver disorders has gained more attention in recent years. An assessment of the hepatoprotective potential of medicinal plants and their bioactive secondary metabolites is the goal of this thorough review paper. To determine their hepatoprotective activity, these plants were tested against liver toxicity artificially induced in rats, mice and rabbits by chemical agents such as carbon tetrachloride (CCl4), paracetamol (PCM), thioacetamide (TAA), N-nitrosodiethylamine, d-galactosamine/lipopolysaccharide, antitubercular medicines (rifampin, isoniazid) and alcohol. To find pertinent research publications published between 1989 and 2022, a comprehensive search of electronic bibliographic databases (including Web of Science, SpringerLink, ScienceDirect, Google Scholar, PubMed, Scopus, and others) was carried out. The investigation comprised 203 plant species from 81 families in total. A thorough discussion was mentioned regarding the hepatoprotective qualities of plants belonging to several families, such as Fabaceae, Asteraceae, Lamiaceae, and Euphorbiaceae. The plant groups Asteraceae and Fabaceae were the most frequently shown to have hepatoprotective properties. The phytochemical constituents namely flavonoids, phenolic compounds, and alkaloids exhibited the highest frequency of hepatoprotective action. Also, some possible mechanism of action of some active constituents from medicinal plants was discussed in brief which were found in some studies. In summary, the information on medicinal plants and their potentially hepatoprotective bioactive phytoconstituents has been consolidated in this review which emphasizes the importance of further research to explore the efficacy and safety of these natural remedies for various liver ailments.

Natural products modulate NLRP3 in ulcerative colitis

Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a clinically common, progressive, devastating, chronic inflammatory disease of the intestine that is recurrent and difficult to treat. Nod-like receptor protein 3 (NLRP3) is a protein complex composed of multiple proteins whose formation activates cysteine aspartate protease-1 (caspase-1) to induce the maturation and secretion of inflammatory mediators such as interleukin (IL)-1β and IL-18, promoting the development of inflammatory responses. Recent studies have shown that NLRP3 is associated with UC susceptibility, and that it maintains a stable intestinal environment by responding to a wide range of pathogenic microorganisms. The mainstay of treatment for UC is to control inflammation and relieve symptoms. Despite a certain curative effect, there are problems such as easy recurrence after drug withdrawal and many side effects associated with long-term medication. NLRP3 serves as a core link in the inflammatory response. If the relationship between NLRP3 and gut microbes and inflammation-associated factors can be analyzed concerning its related inflammatory signaling pathways, its expression status as well as specific mechanism in the course of IBD can be elucidated and further considered for clinical diagnosis and treatment of IBD, it is expected that the development of lead compounds targeting the NLRP3 inflammasome can be developed for the treatment of IBD. Research into the prevention and treatment of UC, which has become a hotbed of research in recent years, has shown that natural products are rich in therapeutic means, and multi-targets, with fewer adverse effects. Natural products have shown promise in treating UC in numerous basic and clinical trials over the past few years. This paper describes the regulatory role of the NLRP3 inflammasome in UC and the mechanism of recent natural products targeting NLRP3 against UC, which provides a reference for the clinical treatment of this disease.

Bisphenol A enhances apoptosis, fibrosis, and biochemical fluctuations in the liver of adult male rats with possible regression after recovery

Bisphenol A (BPA) is an environmental contaminant that might be harmful. Human exposure to BPA can occur during the fetal and postnatal periods and extends throughout life. This study aimed to estimate the effects of oral administration of BPA on rat liver and assess the possibility of recovery after cessation. Adult male albino rats were orally administered with BPA (50 mg/kg body weight) for 8 weeks, and then one group was left to recover for 4 weeks. Histological, immunohistochemical, biochemical, and quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction assessments were performed. Loss of hepatic architecture, vascular dilatation congestion, and exudation, as well as cellular vacuolation, fat accumulation, and pyknotic nuclei were detected. Furthermore, inflammatory infiltration, localized metaplasia, and excessive collagen deposition in the portal triad were observed. Expression of Bcl-2-associated X protein and transforming growth factor beta 1 was prominent, denoting apoptosis and fibrosis. After the administration of BPA, serum levels of alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase, alkaline phosphatase, total bilirubin, cholesterol, triglycerides, and low-density lipoproteins were enhanced. Additionally, total protein, albumin, and high-density lipoproteins decreased. After a recovery for 4 weeks, hepatic cellular and vascular pathologies returned to normal, except for some inflammatory infiltration. Regarding biochemical affection, most of the parameters were directed toward normal during recovery. However, most of them were still significantly different from controls. This explored BPA hepatotoxicity from structural and functional aspects, and the possible spontaneous reversibility was confirmed. However, the precise mechanisms underlying hepatotoxicity or recovery need more in-depth investigations.

Treatment opportunities with Fernandoa adenophylla and recent novel approaches for natural medicinal phytochemicals as a drug delivery system

Fernandoa adenophylla (FA, Heterophragma adenophyllum) is a plant, cultivated throughout Africa and Southeast Asia. It contains potent phytochemicals such as novel naphthoquinones, their derivatives (peshwaraquinone, dilapachone, adenophyllone, indadone, and lapachol), and triterpenoids [ursolic acid (UA), β-sitosterol (BS), α-amyrin, and oleanolic acid (OA)] that have been assessed and reported to show potential pharmacological activities. The crude extract obtained from the plant has been investigated for certain pharmacological activities such as antibacterial, antifungal, anti-tubercular (TB), antihypertensive, and leishmanicidal activity. A novel drug delivery systems (NDDS) is the latest technique that combines innovative development, formulations, new technology, and methodologies for the safe delivery of pharmaceutical substances in the body. The present study reports the possible treatment opportunities of FA and recent possible novel drug delivery approaches for the natural medicinal phytochemicals.

Cardio-protective effects of Terminalia catappa leaves and Terminalia chebula fruit extract in doxorubicin-induced cardiomyopathy in rats

INTRODUCTION

The cardio-protective effects of Terminalia catappa and Terminalia chebula are well-recognized in Ayurveda for its antimicrobial, antidiabetic and antioxidant potentials. The present study evaluates the effects of T. catappa leaves (Tct.LE) and T. chebula fruits (Tce.FE) against doxorubicin (DOX)-induced rats through analysis of the cardiac biomarkers, tricarboxylic acid (TCA) cycle enzymes and respiratory chain enzymes for their cardio-protective properties. Materials and methods: This study includes 42 adult male Albino Wistar rats randomized into seven groups for 21-days. Groups were categorized as control; DOX (1.5 mg/kg) induced negative control; basal diet with 300 mg/kg of Tct.LE, with 300 mg/kg Tce.FE; DOX with 300 mg/kg of Tct.LE, Tce.FE, and propranolol (25mg/kg). Results and Discussion: The doses of 300 mg/kg of both plants have a significant effect on the TCA cycle, respiratory and lysosomal enzymes activity. The troponin levels are significantly reduced in plant treated group than the DOX-treated rats when compared with the control and propranolol treated group. Likewise, the increased level of creatine kinase-muscle/MB, creatine kinase and lipid profile in the DOX-treated animals were significantly reduced upon being treated with extracts. Conclusion: The cardio-protective activity of Tct.LE leaves and Tce.FE indicate its potential use in the management of cardiovascular diseases.

CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE

The prevalence of cardiovascular disease is increasing day-by-day in this industrial world with leading cause of mortality and morbidity. Many researches are presently concentrated on the plant-based medicine due to its safety and free from side effects. Hence, the present study aims to document the potential cardio-protective benefits of Terminalia catappa and Terminalia chebula.

The Inhibitory Effects of Terminalia catappa L. Extract on the Migration and Invasion of Human Glioblastoma Multiforme Cells

Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is one of the most aggressive and common types of brain tumor. Due to its high proliferation ability, a high lethality rate has been observed with this malignant glial tumor. Terminalia catappa L. (T. catappa) is currently known to have anti-inflammatory and anti-carcinogenesis effects. However, few studies have examined the mechanisms of the leaf extracts of T. catappa (TCE) on GBM cells. In the current study, we demonstrated that TCE can significantly inhibit the migration and invasion capabilities of GBM cell lines without showing biotoxic effects. Matrix metalloproteinases-2 (MMP-2) activity and protein expression were attenuated by reducing the p38 phosphorylation involved in the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathway. By treating with TCE and/or p38 inhibitor (SB203580), we confirmed that p38 MAPK is involved in the inhibition of cell migration. In conclusion, our results demonstrated that TCE inhibits human GBM cell migration and MMP-2 expression by regulating the p38 pathway. These results reveal that TCE contains potent therapeutic compounds which could be applied for treating GBM brain tumors.

Potential role of green tea extract and epigallocatechin gallate in preventing bisphenol A-induced metabolic disorders in rats: Biochemical and molecular evidence

BACKGROUND

Bisphenol A (BPA) is an artificial chemical widely used in the production of polycarbonate plastics and epoxy resins. Accumulating evidence indicates that BPA exposure is associated with metabolic disorders. The beneficial effects of green tea and epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), major catechin present in green tea, on alleviating BPA-induced metabolic disorders have been shown in various studies.

PURPOSE

Protective effects of green tea extract and EGCG on BPA-induced metabolic disorders and possible underlying mechanisms were investigated.

METHODS

Rats were randomly divided into control, green tea extract (50 and 100 mg/kg, IP), EGCG (20 and 40 mg/kg, IP), BPA (10 mg/kg, gavage), BPA plus green tea extract (25, 50, and 100 mg/kg, IP), BPA plus EGCG (10, 20, and 40 mg/kg, IP), and BPA plus vitamin E (200 IU/kg, IP). After two months, body weight, blood pressure, biochemical blood tests, hepatic malondialdehyde (MDA), and glutathione (GSH) were assessed. By enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, serum levels of insulin, leptin, adiponectin, TNFα, and IL-6, and by western blotting, hepatic insulin signaling (IRS-1, PI3K, Akt) were measured.

RESULTS

BPA increased body weight, blood pressure, and MDA, decreased GSH, elevated serum levels of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, total cholesterol, triglyceride, glucose, insulin, leptin, TNFα, IL-6, and liver enzymes including alanine aminotransferase and alkaline phosphatase, and lowered high-density lipoprotein cholesterol and adiponectin levels. In western blot, decreased phosphorylation of IRS-1, PI3K, and Akt was obtained. Administration of green tea extract, EGCG, or vitamin E with BPA reduced the detrimental effects of BPA.

CONCLUSION

These findings indicate that green tea extract and EGCG can be effective in preventing or reducing metabolic disorders induced by BPA linked to their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity, regulating the metabolism of lipids, and improving insulin signaling pathways.

Evaluation of different almond (Terminalia catappa) extracts against oxidative stress induced by cyclosporine in brain and liver of rats

OBJECTIVES

This study was designed to evaluate the ameliorative effect of almond (Terminalia catappa) leaf (ALE) and stem bark (ABE) extracts on the enzyme activities and oxidative stress markers in the brain and liver tissues of cyclosporine-A (CsA) stressed male albino rats.

METHODS

Eighty-eight adult male rats weighing between 200 and 220 g were randomly distributed to into 11 groups (n=8) and different doses (100 and 200 mg/kg bwt.) of ALE and ABE were administered through oral gavages to the normal rats and 50 mg/kg/bwt/day CsA-stressed, while normal control rats was given a saline solution (p.o), and the treatment lasted for 14 days. Blood plasma, liver and brain tissues were prepared for biochemical analysis.

RESULTS

Neuronal [acetylcholinesterase (AChE) and butrylcholinesterase (BChE) and arginase] enzyme activities and thiobarbituric acid reactive species (TBARS) level, plasma aspartate transferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activities, liver non-protein thiol (NPSH) level were analyzed. The results revealed that, the administration of CsA induced a significant increase in neuronal AChE, BChE, arginase, TBARS level, but decreased nitric oxide (NO) level. CsA also increased ALT, AST, and ALP activities in the blood plasma of CsA stress rats compared to normal control, but were significantly reversed respectively (p<0.001) upon treatment with the ALE and ABE dose-dependently.

CONCLUSIONS

The study revealed that ALE and ABE could prevent neuronal dysfunction and liver toxicity induced by CsA administration, however, higher dose (200 mg/kg) of the studied extracts appears to be more potent.

Antioxidant, antinociceptive, anti-inflammatory, and hepatoprotective activities of pentacyclic triterpenes isolated from Ziziphus oxyphylla Edgew

Ziziphus oxyphylla Edgew is in folk use in Pakistan as an analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and liver ailments. Therefore, we have investigated antioxidant, antinociceptive, anti-inflammatory, and hepatoprotective activities of the isolated compounds (ceanothic acid and zizybrenalic acid) from the chloroform fraction of Z. oxyphylla. Ceanothic acid and zizybrenalic acid showed significant DPPH and H₂O₂ scavenging activity as compared to control. In the acute toxicity study, ceanothic acid and zizybrenalic acid showed no toxic effects upto 200 mg/kg. The antinociceptive activity shown by ceanothic acid and zizybrenalic acid at 50 mg/kg was 64.28% and 65.35% compared to diclofenac sodium (72.3%) at 50 mg/kg. The percent inhibition of xylene-induced ear edema exhibited by ceanothic acid and zizybrenalic acid at 50 mg/kg was 51.33% and 58.66%, respectively, as compared to diclofenac sodium (72.66%). Both the isolated compounds exhibited inhibition of carrageenan-induced paw edema as compared to control. Hepatoprotection exhibited by zizybrenalic acid was more pronounced than ceanothic acid as observed from the decrease in carbon tetrachloride (CCl₄)-induced elevation of serum biomarkers, antioxidant enzymes and lipid peroxidation. Furthermore, zizybrenalic acid produced a marked decline in CCl₄-induced prolongation of phenobarbital-induced sleeping duration. Zizybrenalic acid exhibited 55.4 ± 1.37% inhibition of hypotonic solution-induced hemolysis compared to sodium salicylate (75.6 ± 2.15%). The histopathological damage caused by CCl₄ was also countered by the administration of ceanothic acid and zizybrenalic acid. Ceanothic acid and zizybrenalic acid exhibited antioxidant, antinociceptive, anti-inflammatory, and hepatoprotective activities. Zizybrenalic acid exhibited better antioxidant, antinociceptive, anti-inflammatory, and hepatoprotective activity than ceanothic acid.

Terminalia catappa Fruit Extract Reverses Streptozotocin-Induced Diabetic Retinopathy in Rats

OBJECTIVE AND BACKGROUND

Diabetic retinopathy is amongst the most common microvascular complications associated with diabetes. Controlling blood glucose level alone cannot manage diabetes associated complications. Thus, mechanisms that additionally prevent diabetes associated complications are the need of the hour, driving the researchers towards herbal therapies. Terminalia catappa is renowned for its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anti-hyperglycemic and anti-angiogenic activity. The current study explores the effect of Terminalia catappa fruit extract on streptozotocin-induced diabetic retinopathy in rats.

METHODS

Streptozotocin-induced chronic diabetic rat model was utilized in the study. The hydroalcoholic fruit extract of T. catappa in 20mg/kg, 30mg/kg and 40mg/kg dose and standard anti-diabetic drug, glibenclamide (10mg/kg) was given orally. Retinopathy was evaluated by monitoring lenticular, fundus images and measuring arteriole and venule tortuosity index. Oxidative, angiogenic and inflammatory biomarkers were assessed at the 12th week in the retinal homogenate. Histopathological changes in the retina were also examined. Data was analyzed using one-way Repeated Measure ANOVA followed by the Mann-Whitney test.

RESULTS

The hydro-alcoholic fruit extract of T. catappa significantly decreased blood glucose (p<0.001) in a dose-dependent manner in diabetic rats. Cataract lens was observed in all experimental groups and became clear (grade 0) with 40mg/kg and with 40mg/kg along with glibenclamide at the eighth and sixth week, respectively. The hydro-alcoholic fruit extract in all three doses significantly reduced (p<0.01) arteriole and venule tortuosity in diabetic rats. T. catappa in all three doses in diabetic rats showed a modulatory effect in oxidative, angiogenic and inflammatory biomarkers.

CONCLUSION

T. catappa reverses diabetes-induced retinopathy by anti-hyperglycemic, anti-oxidant, anti-angiogenic and anti-inflammatory actions, and thus has a potential to be used in diabetes-induced retinopathy.

Synthesis and Cytotoxic Activity of Novel C-23-Modified Asiatic Acid Derivatives

We selectively oxidized the C-23 hydroxyl group in an asiatic acid (AA) derivative and then, for the first time with AA, modification of the C-23 carboxyl group was conducted to synthesize a series of new AA derivatives. The evaluation of their cytotoxic activities against two human cancer cell lines (SKOV-3 and HCT116) using the MTT assay in vitro revealed a distinctive structure activity relationship (SAR) associated with the intramolecular hydrogen bonding of the amide moiety at C-23. According to the established SAR, the cytotoxic activities of four promising compounds were then evaluated against MCF-7, A549, A2780, HepG2 and HL-60 cancer cell lines. Compound 10 had the best cytotoxic activity among all tested derivatives in the HL-60 cell line, giving IC₅₀ = 0.47 μM, while showing no cytotoxic effect against human normal cells (HUVEC).

Terpenoids as Potential Geroprotectors

Terpenes and terpenoids are the largest groups of plant secondary metabolites. However, unlike polyphenols, they are rarely associated with geroprotective properties. Here we evaluated the conformity of the biological effects of terpenoids with the criteria of geroprotectors, including primary criteria (lifespan-extending effects in model organisms, improvement of aging biomarkers, low toxicity, minimal adverse effects, improvement of the quality of life) and secondary criteria (evolutionarily conserved mechanisms of action, reproducibility of the effects on different models, prevention of age-associated diseases, increasing of stress-resistance). The number of substances that demonstrate the greatest compliance with both primary and secondary criteria of geroprotectors were found among different classes of terpenoids. Thus, terpenoids are an underestimated source of potential geroprotectors that can effectively influence the mechanisms of aging and age-related diseases.

Efficacy of Ozoroa pulcherrima Schweinf methanolic extract against Schistosoma mansoni-induced liver injury in mice

The roots of Ozoroa pulcherrima Schweinf are used in traditional medicine to treat intestinal helminthiasis. The aim of this study was to assess the effect of Ozoroa pulcherrima roots methanolic extract (OPME) on liver injury induced by Schistosoma mansoni in mice. A preliminary phytochemical study of OPME was conducted. OPME was given daily and orally to S. mansoni-infected mice at 100, 200 or 400 mg/kg for 28 days, starting from the 36th day post-infection. Praziquantel was used as reference drug. Non-infected and infected-untreated mice served as controls. Worm burden and egg output, transaminases, total bilirubin, alkaline phosphatase and total protein; as well as malondialdehyde, catalase and reduced glutathione were evaluated. In OPME, total phenolic was 79.61 ± 0.25 mg gallic acid equivalent/g, while total flavonoid was 7.98 ± 0.04 mg rutin equivalent/g. Treatment of S. mansoni-infected mice with OPME produced significant reduction of worm burden and ova count in the faeces, liver and intestine. Significant reduction of alanine aminotransferase activity (p < 0.001) as well as significant increase of total protein content (p < 0.001) was recorded after OPME treatment at all doses. Total bilirubin level was also reduced (p < 0.01). Administration of OPME at all doses corrected the high malondialdehyde level (p < 0.001) induced by the infection. At 200 mg/kg, catalase activity and reduced glutathione concentration were significantly increased (p < 0.001). OPME at 200 mg/kg showed moderate schistosomicidal effect, but was effective as the standard drug praziquantel in restoring the liver function after S. mansoni infection.

Evaluation of the schistosomicidal, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities of the ethyl acetate fraction from Ozoroa pulcherrima Schweinf. Roots on Schistosoma mansoni-induced liver pathology in mice and its phytochemical characterization

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Ozoroa pulcherrima Schweinf. (syn.: Heeria pulcherrrima Schweinf.) is a small shrub belonging to the family Anacardiaceae. In Africa, the stem and the leaves are used to treat dystocia, hyperthermia, and conjunctivitis, while the root is used to treat dysmenorrhea and intestinal helminthiasis.

AIM OF THE STUDY

The aim of this study was to assess the schistosomicidal, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects of the ethyl acetate fraction from O. pulcherrima roots methanolic extract (EAOp) on S. mansoni- induced liver pathology in mice. Additionally, its phytochemical composition was elucidated.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

The phytochemical characterization of EAOp was carried out by High-Performance Liquid Chromatography-Mass spectrometry (HPLC-MS). Total phenolic and flavonoid contents were also quantified in the fraction. S. mansoni-infected mice received daily and per os, for 28 days, EAOp at 200 or 400 mg/kg, starting from the 36^th day post-infection. Praziquantel was used as reference drug. Uninfected-untreated, uninfected-treated and infected-untreated mice served as controls. At the 65^th day post-infection mice were sacrificed and parasitological burden monitored. Transaminases, total bilirubin, and total proteins levels were determined in the plasma. Malondialdehyde (MDA), nitrites, superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT) and reduced glutathione (GSH) levels were measured in the liver as biomarkers of the oxidative stress. Liver histology and morphometric analysis of granulomas were also conducted.

RESULTS

The HPLC-MS analysis data of EAOp revealed the presence of four triterpenes namely oleaterminaloic acid, hydroxyoleanolic acid, moronic acid, and oleanolic acid; a flavonoid dipentoxybenzoic acid and two alkaloids. Its total phenolic content was 76.46 ± 0.01 mg GAE/g and total flavonoid content 6.26 ± 0.31 mg rutin equivalent/g. The reductions of worm burden (48.89 and 75.56%), fecal egg count (77.76 and 69.52%) and egg load in the liver (65.33 and 77.18%) and intestine (78.06 and 84.63%) were significant after EAOp treatment. EAOp at all doses significantly (p < 0.001) reversed the increasing transaminases activities and total bilirubin level induced by the infection. A normalization of total proteins concentration was also recorded. Treatment of S. mansoni-infected mice with EAOp at 200 or 400 mg/kg resulted in a significant reduction (p < 0.001) of MDA concentration by 73.20% and 67.78% respectively. The level of nitrites which was reduced by the infection significantly increased after the treatment. EAOp significantly increased by 4.67 and 5.69-fold the CAT activity and by 126.67% the GSH level. Histologically, a significant reduction of the number (66.39 and 57.82%) and the volume (52.25 and 34.81%) of liver inflammatory granulomas was recorded after EAOp treatment at all doses.

CONCLUSIONS

These results suggest that the liver pathology in S. mansoni infection is improved by EAOp which disclosed good schistosomicidal, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities. Its effects on the liver dysfunction and the hepatic oxidative stress were comparable to that of praziquantel. These findings justified the traditional use of O. pulcherrima for the treatment of intestinal helminthiasis. This fraction can be considered as a promising source for schistosomicidal agents.

Prevalence and current therapy in chronic liver disorders

BACKGROUND

Herbal medicine plays an important role in health, particularly in remote parts of developing areas with few health facilities. According to WHO estimates, about three-quarters of the world's population currently use herbs or traditional medicines to treat various ailments, including liver diseases. Several studies have found that the use of medicinal plants was effective in the treatment of infectious and non-infectious diseases. Hepatitis and liver cirrhosis associated with many clinical manifestations can be treated with allopathic medicines, but reports of a number of side effects including immunosuppression, bone marrow suppression, and renal complications have motivated researchers to explore more natural herbal medicines with low or no side effects and with high efficacy in treating hepatic diseases.

METHODS

Databases including PubMed, Medline, and Google Scholar were searched for findings on the hepatoprotective effects of plants.

RESULTS

Various medicinal plants are used for the treatment of liver disorders. The range of alternative therapies is huge, and they are used worldwide, either as part of primary health care or in combination with conventional medicine. Hepatoprotective plants contain a variety of chemical constituents including flavonoids, alkaloids, glycosides, carotenoids, coumarins, phenols, essential oil, organic acids, monoterpenes, xanthenes, lignans, and lipids.

CONCLUSION

This review shows that numerous plants are found to contain hepatoprotective compounds. However, further studies are needed to determine their association with existing regimes of antiviral medicines and to develop evidence-based alternative medicine to cure different kinds of liver disease in humans.

Synthesis and antitumor activity evaluation of asiatic acid derivatives as survivin inhibitor

A series of asiatic acid derivatives were synthesized and their cytotoxicities in vitro against two cancer cell lines (HepG2 and SGC7901) were evaluated by MTT assay. The results showed that compounds I₂, I₆, and II₆ have more potent anticancer activity than that of the positive control drug paclitaxel. The interactions between the compounds I₂, I₆, and II₆ and survivin were also studied by docking simulations.

Hepatoprotective natural triterpenoids

Liver diseases are one of the leading causes of death in the world. In spite of tremendous advances in modern drug research, effective and safe hepatoprotective agents are still in urgent demand. Natural products are undoubtedly valuable sources for drug leads. A number of natural triterpenoids were reported to possess pronounced hepatoprotective effects, and triterpenoids have become one of the most important classes of natural products for hepatoprotective agents. However, the significance of natural triterpenoids has been underestimated in the hepatoprotective drug discovery, with only very limited triterpenoids being covered in the reviews of hepatoprotective natural products. In this paper, ca 350 natural triterpenoids with reported hepatoprotective effects in ca 120 references between 1975 and 2016 will be reviewed, and the structure-activity relationships of certain types of natural triterpenoids, if available, will be discussed. Patents are not included.

Chemical characterization and evaluation of the antioxidants in Chaenomeles fruits by an improved HPLC-TOF/MS coupled to an on-line DPPH-HPLC method

An improved method based on HPLC-TOF/MS was developed to catalog the antioxidants in five species of Chaenomeles (Mugua). Forty-four fractions from the Mugua extracts show appreciable levels of antioxidative activity in scavenging the stable free-radical 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl and the hydroxyl radicals. Twelve major antioxidant's chemical structures are identified. Antioxidant activities differ between species, but intra-species level of antioxidants, regardless of their ripeness, are similar. C. sinensis has the highest antioxidant level. A rigorous quality control procedure was implemented to ensure accuracy of antioxidant quantification. This improved procedure can be used for rapid discovery of antioxidants in other plant extracts.

Proposed mechanisms of Terminalia catappa in hyperglycaemia and associated diabetic complications

Objectives

Terminalia catappa has shown potent antidiabetic activity in the past; however, the exact molecular mechanisms by which it acts have not been elucidated. This review aims at exploring several hypotheses which have been proposed to explain its mechanism of action, including reduction in oxidative stress, inflammation, angiogenesis, lipid profile correction and direct hypoglycaemic actions.

Methods

A thorough review of all the articles, research as well as reviews, available regarding the concerned topic was performed. MEDLINE databases were searched using keywords (and their combinations), such as T. catappa, renin oxidative stress, inflammation, angiogenesis, diabetic retinopathy, α-glucosidase and α-amylase, among several others. English-language articles were preferably selected.

Key findings

Apart from metabolic dysfunctions, several hyperglycaemia-induced pathological conditions come into scene as the after-effects of diabetes. These mainly include inflammation, oxidative stress, angiogenesis and lipid profile alteration, which ultimately result in vascular endothelial dysfunction, hepatic steatosis, lipid peroxidation and apoptosis of endothelial, hepatic and neuronal cells. Terminalia catappa effectively attenuates the progression of diabetic retinopathy and shows significant hypoglycaemic actions. The mechanisms behind these effects were explained.

Conclusion

Terminalia catappa may provide an effective natural product to treat hyperglycaemia and prevent subsequent diabetic complications.

Citrate functionalized Mn3O4 in nanotherapy of hepatic fibrosis by oral administration

Aim:

To test the potential of orally administered citrate functionalized Mn₃O₄ nanoparticles (C-Mn₃O₄ NPs) as a therapeutic agent against hepatic fibrosis and associated chronic liver diseases.

Materials & methods:

C-Mn₃O₄ NPs were synthesized and the pH dependent antioxidant mechanism was characterized by in vitro studies. CCl₄ intoxicated mice were orally treated with C-Mn₃O₄ NPs to test its in vivo antioxidant and antifibrotic ability.

Results:

We demonstrated ultrahigh efficacy of the C-Mn₃O₄ NPs in treatment of chronic liver diseases such as hepatic fibrosis and cirrhosis in mice compared with conventional medicine silymarin without any toxicological implications.

Conclusion:

These findings may pave the way for practical clinical use of the NPs as safe medication of chronic liver diseases associated with fibrosis and cirrhosis in human subjects.

Hepatic fibrosis is a common response to chronic liver injury from a number of causes including alcohol, toxin, and persistent viral and helminthic infections, which may ultimately lead to hepatic carcinoma. Although billions of people are affected throughout the world, there is no drug available for treatment of this chronic disease. Here, in a preclinical study, we have shown that oral administration of citrate functionalized Mn₃O₄ nanoparticles can effectively reduce the extent of liver fibrosis in mice. We have also predicted the underlying therapeutic mechanism that involves mitochondria and antioxidant systems of the body.

Oleanolic, Ursolic, and Betulinic Acids as Food Supplements or Pharmaceutical Agents for Type 2 Diabetes: Promise or Illusion?

Oleanolic (OA), ursolic (UA), and betulinic (BA) acids are three triterpenic acids (TAs) with potential effects for treatment of type 2 diabetes (T2DM). Mechanistic studies showed that these TAs act as hypoglycemic and antiobesity agents mainly through (i) reducing the absorption of glucose; (ii) decreasing endogenous glucose production; (iii) increasing insulin sensitivity; (iv) improving lipid homeostasis; and (v) promoting body weight regulation. Besides these promising beneficial effects, it is believed that OA, UA, and BA protect against diabetes-related comorbidities due to their antiatherogenic, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties. We also highlight the protective effect of OA, UA, and BA against oxidative damage, which may be very relevant for the treatment and/or prevention of T2DM. In the present review, we provide an integrative description of the antidiabetic properties of OA, UA, and BA, evaluating the potential use of these TAs as food supplements or pharmaceutical agents to prevent and/or treat T2DM.

Nerve Protective Effect of Asiaticoside against Ischemia-Hypoxia in Cultured Rat Cortex Neurons

Background

Asiaticoside is one of the main functional components of the natural plant Centella asiatica urban. Studies have reported it has several functions such as anti-depression and nerve cell protection. Asiaticoside can reduce the cerebral infarct size in acute focal cerebral ischemia in a mouse model and asiatic acid glycosides can significantly improve neurobehavioral scores. Currently, there is a lack of understanding of asiaticoside in regard to its neural protective mechanism in cerebral ischemia. This study aimed to solve this problem by using an ischemia-hypoxia cell model in vitro.

Material/Methods

An in vitro ischemia hypoxia cell model was successfully established by primary cultured newborn rat cortical neurons. After being treated by asiaticoside for 24 h, cell survival rate, lactate dehydrogenase release quantity, and B-cell lymphoma gene-2 (BCL-2), Bax, and caspase-3 protein expressions was detected.

Results

After 10 nmol/L or 100 nmol/L of asiaticoside were given to the cells, cell survival rate increased significantly and presented concentration dependence. Asiaticoside can reduce lactate dehydrogenase release. Lactate dehydrogenase release in model cells is gradually reduced with the increase of asiaticoside concentration. The lactate dehydrogenase release in asiaticoside 10 nmol/L group, asiaticoside 100 nmol/L group and ischemia hypoxia group were 26.75±1.05, 22.36±2.87 and 52.35±5.46%, respectively (p<0.05). It was also found that asiaticoside could modulate the expression of apoptotic factors, including bcl-2, Bax, and caspase-3.

Conclusions

Asiaticoside helps to protect in vitro ischemia hypoxia neurons. This nerve cell protection may be mediated by the BCL-2 protein.

Synthesis, anti-tumor and anti-angiogenic activity evaluations of asiatic Acid amino Acid derivatives

Fifteen semi-synthetic derivatives of asiatic acid (AA) have been synthesized and evaluated for their biological activities. The successful modification of these compounds at the C-2, C-3, C-23 and C-28 positions was confirmed using NMR, MS and IR spectra. Further, their anti-tumor effects were evaluated in vitro using different cancer cell lines (HeLa, HepG2, B16F10, SGC7901, A549, MCF7 and PC3), while their anti-angiogenic activities were evaluated in vivo using a larval zebrafish model. Among the derivatives, compounds 4–10 showed more potent cytotoxic and anti-angiogenic effects than AA, while compounds 11–17 had significantly less effects. The new derivative 10 was also included in finished formulations to evaluate its stability using HPLC due to its potential topical use. The derivative 10 had markedly better anti-tumor activities than both AA and other derivatives, with similar stability as its parent compound AA.

Comparative evaluation of standardized alcoholic, hydroalcoholic, and aqueous extracts of Phyllanthus maderaspatensis Linn. against galactosamine-induced hepatopathy in albino rats

Background:

Phyllanthus maderaspatensis species (Euphorbiaceae) has been used in folk medicine of many countries as a remedy against several pathological conditions including jaundice and hepatitis. This study is an attempt to evaluate hepatoprotective activity of P. maderaspatensis against galactosamine-induced toxicity and also investigation of polyphenols in each extract.

Materials and Methods:

The extraction of P. maderaspatensis as per Ayurveda was simultaneously standardized and quantified for biochemical markers viz., polyphenols: Kaempferol, quercetin, catechin, rutin, and ellagic acid by high-performance thin layer chromatography. Hepatotoxicity was induced albino adult rats by intraperitoneal injection of galactosamine (400 mg/kg). The quantified aqueous, hydroalcoholic and alcoholic extract of P. maderaspatensis (200 and 400 mg/kg body weight/day) were compared for evaluation of hepatoprotective potential, which were assessed in terms of reduction in histological damage, change in serum enzymes such as aspartate amino transaminase, alanine amino transaminase and alkaline phosphatase and increase thiobarbituric acid reactive substances.

Results and Discussion:

The hydroalcoholic extract was found to contain comparatively high amount of kaempferol, quercetin, catechin, rutin, and ellagic acid which are responsible for hepatoprotection. Antioxidant parameters such as glutathione, catalase, and superoxide dismutase activity in liver tissues were restored toward the normalization more significantly by the hydroalcoholic extract when compared with other extracts. The biochemical observations were supplemented with histopathological examination.

Conclusion:

The hydroalcoholic extract standardized with respect to known biomarkers may be considered as a potent extract against hepatotoxicity.

Asiatic acid ameliorates dextran sulfate sodium-induced murine experimental colitis via suppressing mitochondria-mediated NLRP3 inflammasome activation

In the present study, the effect of asiatic acid, a natural triterpenoid compound, on murine experimental colitis induced by dextran sulfate sodium (DSS) and its possible mechanism were examined in vivo and vitro. Oral administration of asiatic acid dose-dependently attenuated the loss of body weight and shortening of colon length induced by DSS. The disease activity index, histopathologic scores of musco and myeloperoxidase activity were also significantly reduced by asiatic acid treatment. Protein and mRNA levels of DSS-induced pro-inflammatory cytokines in colon, including TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6 and IFN-γ, were markedly suppressed by asiatic acid. At the same time, decreased activation of caspase-1 in peritoneal macrophages was detected in asiatic acid-treated mice, which suggested that the NLRP3 inflammasome activation was suppressed. In addition, we also found that asiatic acid dose-dependently inhibited IL-1β secretion, caspase-1 activation as well as inflammasome assembling in vitro. Furthermore, the mechanism of asiatic acid was related to the inhibition of mitochondrial reactive oxygen species generation and prevention of mitochondrial membrane potential collapse. Taken together, our results demonstrate the ability of asiatic acid to inhibit NLRP3 inflammasome activation and its potential usage in the treatment of inflammatory bowel diseases.

The use of plants in the traditional management of diabetes in Nigeria: pharmacological and toxicological considerations

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

The prevalence of diabetes is on a steady increase worldwide and it is now identified as one of the main threats to human health in the 21st century. In Nigeria, the use of herbal medicine alone or alongside prescription drugs for its management is quite common. We hereby carry out a review of medicinal plants traditionally used for diabetes management in Nigeria. Based on the available evidence on the species׳ pharmacology and safety, we highlight ways in which their therapeutic potential can be properly harnessed for possible integration into the country׳s healthcare system.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Ethnobotanical information was obtained from a literature search of electronic databases such as Google Scholar, Pubmed and Scopus up to 2013 for publications on medicinal plants used in diabetes management, in which the place of use and/or sample collection was identified as Nigeria. 'Diabetes' and 'Nigeria' were used as keywords for the primary searches; and then 'Plant name - accepted or synonyms', 'Constituents', 'Drug interaction' and/or 'Toxicity' for the secondary searches.

RESULTS

The hypoglycemic effect of over a hundred out of the 115 plants reviewed in this paper is backed by preclinical experimental evidence, either in vivo or in vitro. One-third of the plants have been studied for their mechanism of action, while isolation of the bioactive constituent(s) has been accomplished for twenty three plants. Some plants showed specific organ toxicity, mostly nephrotoxic or hepatotoxic, with direct effects on the levels of some liver function enzymes. Twenty eight plants have been identified as in vitro modulators of P-glycoprotein and/or one or more of the cytochrome P450 enzymes, while eleven plants altered the levels of phase 2 metabolic enzymes, chiefly glutathione, with the potential to alter the pharmacokinetics of co-administered drugs.

CONCLUSION

This review, therefore, provides a useful resource to enable a thorough assessment of the profile of plants used in diabetes management so as to ensure a more rational use. By anticipating potential toxicities or possible herb-drug interactions, significant risks which would otherwise represent a burden on the country׳s healthcare system can be avoided.

Asiatic acid ameliorates hepatic lipid accumulation and insulin resistance in mice consuming a high-fat diet

Effects of asiatic acid (AA) at 10 or 20 mg/kg/day upon hepatic steatosis in mice consuming a high-fat diet (HFD) were examined. AA intake decreased body weight, water intake, feed intake, epididymal fat, and plasma and hepatic triglyceride levels in HFD-treated mice (P < 0.05). HFD enhanced 2.85-fold acetyl coenzyme A carboxylase (ACC1), 3.34-fold fatty acid synthase (FAS), 3.71-fold stearoyl CoA desaturase (SCD)-1, 3.62-fold 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl coenzyme A reductase, 2.91-fold sterol regulatory element-binding protein (SREBP)-1c, and 2.75-fold SREBP-2 expression in liver (P < 0.05). Compared with HFD groups, AA intake at two doses reduced 18.9-45.7% ACC1, 25.1-49.8% FAS, 24.7-57.1% SCD-1, and 21.8-53.3% SREBP-1c protein expression (P < 0.05). Histological results indicated AA intake at two doses reduced hepatic lipid accumulation and inflammatory infiltrate. HFD increased hepatic production of reactive oxygen species, interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-6, and tumor necrosis factor-α, as well as decreased hepatic glutathione content and glutathione peroxidase and catalase activities (P < 0.05). AA intake at two doses reversed these alterations (P < 0.05). AA intake suppressed 32.4-58.8% nuclear factor kappa (NF-κ)B p65 and 24.2-56.7% p-p38 expression (P < 0.05) and at high dose down-regulated 29.1% NF-κB p50 and 40.7% p-JNK expression in livers from HFD-treated mice. AA intake at two doses lowered plasma insulin secretion and HOMR-IR (P < 0.05). These results suggest that AA is a potent hepatic protective agent against HFD-induced hepatic injury.

Terminalia catappa Exerts Antimetastatic Effects on Hepatocellular Carcinoma through Transcriptional Inhibition of Matrix Metalloproteinase-9 by Modulating NF-κB and AP-1 Activity

High mortality and morbidity rates for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in Taiwan primarily result from uncontrolled tumor metastasis. Previous studies have identified that Terminalia catappa leaf extracts (TCE) exert hepatoprotective, antioxidative, antiinflammatory, anticancer, and antimetastatic activities. However, the effects of TCE on HCC and the underlying molecular mechanisms of its activities have yet to be fully elucidated. The present study's findings demonstrate that TCE concentration dependently inhibits human HCC migration/invasion. Zymographic and western blot analyses revealed that TCE inhibited the activities and expression of matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9). Assessment of mRNA levels, using reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and real-time PCR, and promoter assays confirmed the inhibitory effects of TCE on MMP-9 expression in HCC cells. The inhibitory effects of TCE on MMP-9 proceeded by upregulating tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase-1 (TIMP-1), as well as suppressing nuclear translocation and DNA binding activity of nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) and activating protein-1 (AP-1) on the MMP-9 promoter in Huh7 cells. In conclusion, TCE inhibits MMP-9 expression and HCC cell metastasis and, thus, has potential use as a chemopreventive agent. Its inhibitory effects are associated with downregulation of the binding activities of the transcription factors NF-κB and AP-1.

Hepatoprotective and in vitro antioxidant effect of Carthamus tinctorious L, var Annigeri-2-, an oil-yielding crop, against CCl(4) -induced liver injury in rats

BACKGROUND

The present investigation evaluates the hepatoprotective and in vitro antioxidant effect of methanolic extract and its isolated constituent, dehydroabietylamine, in Carthamus tinctorious L, var Annigeri-2-, an oil yielding crop.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The hepatoprotective effects were estimated for the parameters viz, total bilirubin, total protein, serum alanine amino transaminase (ALT) and serum aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) and along with the pathological findings of hepatotoxicity. The in vitro antioxidant activity was evaluated by using free radical scavenging assays: DPPH, nitric oxide radical scavenging, hydroxyl radical, reducing power, ferrous ion chelating ability and total antioxidant capacity.

RESULTS

Both the methanolic extract (at 150 and 300 mg/kg bw) and dehydroabietylamine (at 50 mg/kg bw) showed significant liver protection against CCl(4) -induced liver damage that was comparable with the standard drug, silymarin (100 mg/kg bw), in reducing the elevated serum enzyme markers. The liver sections of the animals treated with dehydroabietylamine elicit a significant liver protection compared with the methanolic extract against CCl(4) -induced liver damage. Further, both the methanolic extract and dehydroabietylamine exhibited a considerable and dose-dependent scavenging activity of DPPH, nitric oxide and hydroxyl radical. Similarly, in the reducing power assay, the results were very persuasive. In addition, the Fe(2+) chelating activity and the total antioxidant assay established the antioxidant property of the methanolic extract and its isolated constituent. Among the two experimental samples, dehydroabietylamine proved to be more effective for the said parameters.

CONCLUSION

The potent antioxidant and its correlative hepatoprotective activity of the methanolic extract and isolated constituent dehydroabietylamine is therefore attributed to its antioxidant and free radical scavenging activities.

Mitochondria-dependent apoptosis of con A-activated T lymphocytes induced by asiatic acid for preventing murine fulminant hepatitis

Selectively facilitating apoptosis of activated T cells is essential for the clearance of pathogenic injurious cells and subsequent efficient resolution of inflammation. However, few chemicals have been reported to trigger apoptosis of activated T cells for the treatment of hepatitis without affecting quiescent T cells. In the present study, we found that asiatic acid, a natural triterpenoid, selectively triggered apoptosis of concanavalin A (Con A)-activated T cells in a mitochondria-dependent manner indicated by the disruption of the mitochondrial transmembrane potential, release of cytochrome c from mitochondria to cytosol, caspases activation, and cleavage of PARP. In addition, asiatic acid also induced the cleavage of caspase 8 and Bid and augmented Fas expression in Con A-activated T cells. However, following activation of T cells from MRL^lpr/lpr mice with mutation of Fas demonstrated a similar susceptibility to asiatic acid-induced apoptosis compared with normal T cells, suggesting that Fas-mediated death-receptor apoptotic pathway does not mainly contribute to asiatic acid-induced cell death. Furthermore, asiatic acid significantly alleviated Con A-induced T cell-dependent fulminant hepatitis in mice, as assessed by reduced serum transaminases, pro-inflammatory cytokines, and pathologic parameters. Consistent with the in vitro results, asiatic acid also induced apoptosis of activated CD4⁺ T cells in vivo. Taken together, our results demonstrated that the ability of asiatic acid to induce apoptosis of activated T cells and its potential use in the treatment of T-cell-mediated inflammatory diseases.

Synthesis and antitumor activity evaluation of new asiatic acid derivatives

Twelve novel asiatic acid (AA) derivatives were designed and synthesized. Their structures were confirmed using NMR, MS, and IR spectra. Their in vitro cytotoxicities on various cancer cell lines (HeLa, HepG2, BGC-823, and SKOV3) were evaluated by the 3-(4,5-dimethyl-2-thiazolyl)-2,5-diphenyl-2H-tetrazolium bromide assay. Most of the derivatives were found to have stronger cell growth inhibitory activity than AA. Among them, compounds 5-8 and 11 with substituted amide group at C-28 exhibited more potent cytotoxicity than AA, Gefitinib, and etoposide (positive control).

Asiatic acid, a pentacyclic triterpene in Centella asiatica, attenuates glutamate-induced cognitive deficits in mice and apoptosis in SH-SY5Y cells

AIM

To investigate whether asiatic acid (AA), a pentacyclic triterpene in Centella asiatica, exerted neuroprotective effects in vitro and in vivo, and to determine the underlying mechanisms.

METHODS

Human neuroblastoma SH-SY5Y cells were used for in vitro study. Cell viability was determined with the MTT assay. Hoechst 33342 staining and flow cytometry were used to examine the apoptosis. The mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP) and reactive oxygen species (ROS) were measured using fluorescent dye. PGC-1α and Sirt1 levels were examined using Western blotting. Neonatal mice were given monosodium glutamate (2.5 mg/g) subcutaneously at the neck from postnatal day (PD) 7 to 13, and orally administered with AA on PD 14 daily for 30 d. The learning and memory of the mice were evaluated with the Morris water maze test. HE staining was used to analyze the pyramidal layer structure in the CA1 and CA3 regions.

RESULTS

Pretreatment of SH-SY5Y cells with AA (0.1-100 nmol/L) attenuated toxicity induced by 10 mmol/L glutamate in a concentration-dependent manner. AA 10 nmol/L significantly decreased apoptotic cell death and reduced reactive oxygen species (ROS), stabilized the mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP), and promoted the expression of PGC-1α and Sirt1. In the mice models, oral administration of AA (100 mg/kg) significantly attenuated cognitive deficits in the Morris water maze test, and restored lipid peroxidation and glutathione and the activity of SOD in the hippocampus and cortex to the control levels. AA (50 and 100 mg/kg) also attenuated neuronal damage of the pyramidal layer in the CA1 and CA3 regions.

CONCLUSION

AA attenuates glutamate-induced cognitive deficits of mice and protects SH-SY5Y cells against glutamate-induced apoptosis in vitro.

Recent advances in herbal medicine for treatment of liver diseases

CONTEXT

Liver disease is a serious ailment and the scenario is worsened by the lack of precise therapeutic regimens. Currently available therapies for liver ailments are not apposite and systemic toxicity inhibits their long term use. Medicinal plants have been traditionally used for treating liver diseases since centuries as the toxicity factor appears to be on the lower side.

OBJECTIVE

Several phytochemials have been identified which have significant hepatoprotective activity with minimal systemic adverse effects which could limit their long term use. The scenario calls for extensive investigations which can lead to development of lead molecules for hepatoprotective molecules of future. This review deals with the biological activity, mode of action and toxicity and forthcoming application of some of these leads.

METHODS

These generally have strong antioxidative potential and cause induction of antioxidant enzymes like superoxide dismutase, reduced glutathione and catalase. Additional mechanisms of hepatoprotection include stimulation of heme oxygenase-1 activity, inhibition of nitric oxide production, hepatocyte apoptosis and nuclear factor-κB activation.

RESULTS AND CONCLUSION

Out of the several leads obtained from plant sources as potential hepatoprotective agents, silymarin, andrographolide, neoandrographolide, curcumin, picroside, kutkoside, phyllanthin, hypophyllanthin, and glycyrrhizin have been established as potent hepatoprotective agents. The hepatoprotective potential of several herbal medicines has been clinically evaluated. Significant efficacy has been seen with silymarin, glycyrrhizin and Liv-52 in treatment of hepatitis, alcoholic liver disease and liver cirrhosis.

Uncoupling and antioxidant effects of ursolic acid in isolated rat heart mitochondria

Ursolic acid (1), a pentacyclic triterpene acid, is one of the major components of certain traditional medicinal plants and possesses a wide range of biological effects, such as anti-inflammatory, antioxidative, and cytotoxic activities. Furthermore, 1, when present at 1.6-5 ng/mL concentrations in commercial herbal preparations used for patients with cardiac disorders, may also exert pro-cardiac activities. There are several indirect suggestions that the cardioprotective mechanism of ursolic acid could involve the mitochondria; however the mechanism of action is still not known. Therefore, the effects of 0.4-200 ng/mL ursolic acid (1) on the functions of isolated rat heart mitochondria oxidizing either pyruvate and malate, succinate, or palmitoyl-l-carnitine plus malate were investigated. It was found that 1 induced a statistically significant uncoupling of oxidative phosphorylation. A statistically significant decrease in H₂O₂ production in the mitochondria was observed after incubation with 5 ng/mL 1. This effect was comparable to the effectiveness of the classical uncoupler carbonyl cyanide 3-chlorophenylhydrazone. Since mild mitochondrial uncoupling has been proposed as one of the mechanisms of cardioprotection, the present results indicate that ursolic acid (1) has potential use as a cardioprotective compound.

Protective effects of Pergularia daemia roots against paracetamol and carbon tetrachloride-induced hepatotoxicity in rats

CONTEXT

Pergularia daemia (Forsk) Chiov. (Asclepiadaceae) is a slender, hispid, fetid-smelling perennial climber and has been used for the treatment of inflammation, diabetes, malaria, asthma, and liver disorders. Ethnopharmacological surveys conducted among herbal practitioners of Western Ghats, Tamil Nadu, India, revealed that large numbers of laticiferous plant species are used as a source of herbal therapies, in which Pergularia daemia was commonly used to treat liver disease and jaundice.

OBJECTIVE

The hepatoprotective effect of aqueous and ethanol extracts of Pergularia daemia roots by paracetamol and carbon tetrachloride (CCl(4))-induced liver damage in rats was studied.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The aqueous (PdAE) and ethanol (PdEE) extracts of Pergularia daemia were studied for their hepatoprotective effects on paracetamol and CCl(4)-induced liver damage on Wistar albino rats. The degree of protection was measured by physical changes (liver weight), biochemical (serum gultamic pyruvic transaminase, serum gultamic oxaloacetic transaminase, alkaline phosphatase, direct bilirubin, total bilirubin, cholesterol and decrease in protein), antioxidant enzymes (lipid peroxidation and glutathione levels), and histological changes.

RESULTS

Pretreatment with PdAE and PdEE significantly prevented the physical, biochemical, antioxidant enzyme levels and histological changes induced by paracetamol and CCl(4) in the liver. The effects of PdAE and PdEE were comparable to that of the standard drug silymarin. The ethanol extract was found to exhibit greater hepatoprotective activity than the aqueous extract.

DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION

These results indicate that Pergularia daemia could be useful in preventing chemically induced acute liver injury. From this study it can be concluded that the aqueous and ethanol extracts of P. daemia possess significant hepatoprotective activity.

Inhibitory Effects of Terminalia catappa on UVB-Induced Photodamage in Fibroblast Cell Line

This study investigated whether Terminalia catappa L. hydrophilic extract (TCLW) prevents photoaging in human dermal fibroblasts after exposure to UVB radiation. TCLW exhibited DPPH free radical scavenging activity and protected erythrocytes against AAPH-induced hemolysis. In the gelatin digestion assay, the rates of collagenase inhibition by TCL methanol extract, TCLW, and its hydrolysates were greater than 100% at the concentration of 1 mg/mL. We found that serial dilutions of TCLW (10–500 μg/mL) inhibited collagenase activity in a dose-dependent manner (82.3% to 101.0%). However, TCLW did not significantly inhibit elastase activity. In addition, TCLW inhibited MMP-1 and MMP-9 protein expression at a concentration of 25 μg/mL and inhibited MMP-3 protein expression at a concentration of 50 μg/mL. TCLW also promoted the protein expression of type I procollagen. We also found that TCLW attenuated the expression of MMP-1, -3, and -9 by inhibiting the phosphorylation of ERK, JNK, and p38. These findings suggest that TCLW increases the production of type I procollagen by inhibiting the activity of MMP-1, -3 and -9, and, therefore, has potential use in anti-aging cosmetics.

Synthesis and biological evaluation of asiatic acid derivatives as inhibitors of glycogen phosphorylases

Twenty-four asiatic acid derivatives have been synthesized and biologically evaluated as inhibitors of glycogen phosphorylase (GP). Within this series of compounds, asiatic acid benzyl ester (23; IC(50)=3.8 microM) exhibited more potent activity than its parent compound 1 (IC(50)=17 microM). SAR Analysis showed that asiatic acid (1) possessing a 2alpha-OH function exhibited more potent GP inhibitory activity than eriantic acid B (27) which possesses a 2beta-OH function. Further lead optimization based on 1 is needed to find more effective asiatic acid derivatives as antidiabetic agents with protective effects against ischemic diabetic complications.

Asiatic Acid Derivatives Protect Primary Cultures of Rat Hepatocytes against Carbon Tetrachloride-Induced Injury via the Cellular Antioxidant System

We attempted to elucidate the hepatoprotective mechanism of two asiatic acid (AS) derivatives, 3β,23-dihydroxyurs-2-oxo-12-ene-28-oic acid (AS-10) and 3β,23-dihydroxyurs-12-ene-28-oic acid (AS-14), which exhibited significant protective activity against carbon tetrachloride (CCl4)-induced hepatotoxicity in primary cultures of rat hepatocytes. Our findings showed that AS-10 and AS-14 preserved the level of glutathione and the activities of antioxidant enzymes such as glutathione reductase, glutathione peroxidase, superoxide dismutase and catalase. In addition, these compounds ameliorated lipid peroxidation, as demonstrated by a reduction in the production of malondialdehyde. Furthermore, AS-10 and AS-14 did not restore the reduced total GSH level by BSO, indicating that the hepatoprotective activities of these compounds may be involved, in part, by regulating GSH synthesis. From these results, we suggest that both AS-10 and AS-14 exerted their hepatoprotective activities against CCl4-induced injury by preserving the cellular antioxidative defense system.

Antioxidant and hepatoprotective actions of medicinal herb, Terminalia catappa L. from Okinawa Island and its tannin corilagin

The antioxidant and hepatoprotective actions of Terminalia catappa L. collected from Okinawa Island were evaluated in vitro and in vivo using leaves extract and isolated antioxidants. A water extract of the leaves of T. catappa showed a strong radical scavenging action for 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl and superoxide (O(2)(.-)) anion. Chebulagic acid and corilagin were isolated as the active components from T. catappa. Both antioxidants showed a strong scavenging action for O(2)(.-) and peroxyl radicals and also inhibited reactive oxygen species production from leukocytes stimulated by phorbol-12-myristate acetate. Galactosamine (GalN, 600 mg/kg, s.c.,) and lipopolysaccharide (LPS, 0.5 microg/kg, i.p.)-induced hepatotoxicity of rats as seen by an elevation of serum alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase and glutathione S-transferase (GST) activities was significantly reduced when the herb extract or corilagin was given intraperitoneally to rats prior to GalN/LPS treatment. Increase of free radical formation and lipid peroxidation in mitochondria caused by GalN/LPS treatment were also decreased by pretreatment with the herb/corilagin. In addition, apoptotic events such as DNA fragmentation and the increase in caspase-3 activity in the liver observed with GalN/LPS treatment were prevented by the pretreatment with the herb/corilagin. These results show that the extract of T. catappa and its antioxidant, corilagin are protective against GalN/LPS-induced liver injury through suppression of oxidative stress and apoptosis.

Mechanism underlying mitochondrial protection of asiatic acid against hepatotoxicity in mice

Asiatic acid (AA) is one of the triterpenoid components of Terminalia catappa L., which has antioxidative, anti-inflammatory and hepatoprotective activity. This research focused on the mitochondrial protection of AA against acute liver injury induced by lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and D-galactosamine (D-GalN) in mice. It was found that pretreatment with 25, 50 or 100 mg kg(-1) AA significantly blocked the LPS + D-GalN-induced increase in both serum aspartate aminotransferase (sAST) and serum alanine aminotransferase (sALT) levels, which was confirmed by ultrastructural observation under an electron microscope, showing improved nuclear condensation, ameliorated mitochondrion proliferation and less lipid deposition. Meanwhile, different doses of AA could decrease both the transcription and the translation level of voltage-dependent anion channels (VDACs), the most important mitochondrial PTP component protein, and block the translocation of cytochrome c from mitochondria to cytosol. On the other hand, pre-incubation with 25, 50 and 100 microg mL(-1) AA inhibited the Ca(2+)-induced mitochondrial permeability transition (MPT), including mitochondrial swelling, membrane potential dissipation and releasing of matrix Ca(2+) in liver mitochondria separated from normal mice, indicating the direct role of AA on mitochondria. Collectively, the above data suggest that AA could protect liver from damage and the mechanism might be related to up-regulating mitochondrial VDACs and inhibiting the process of MPT.