Radical-scavenging polyphenols: new strategies for their synthesis

Photoprotective effect of botanicals and vitamins: A systematic review of clinical trials

BACKGROUND

Overexposure to solar radiation is a major contributor to skin cancer development and premature skin aging. Botanical extracts and vitamins may represent novel photoprotective agents.

OBJECTIVE

We sought to systemically review clinical evidence for the use of botanically derived agents and vitamins as photoprotective agents.

METHODS

We systematically searched Embase and PubMed databases. Two independent reviewers reviewed abstracts for inclusion. Additional relevant studies were identified by a manual review of reference lists. Data from eligible studies were extracted independently and discrepancies were resolved by consensus.

RESULTS

A total of 51 studies met inclusion criteria. Limited available evidence indicates that several botanical agents and vitamins in topical or oral forms may have promising photoprotective effects. However, generalizability of results is limited by small sample sizes.

CONCLUSION AND RELEVANCE

Botanical extracts and vitamins may add to the armamentarium of sun-protective agents. Additional high-quality trials are needed to strengthen support for their use.

Central nervous system activity of the proanthocyanidin-rich fraction obtained from Croton celtidifolius in rats

Objectives

The aim of the present study was to evaluate the possible neurobehavioural effects in rats of the proanthocyanidin-rich fraction (PRF) isolated from the bark of Croton celtidifolius (Euphorbiaceae).

Methods

Adult Wistar rats were treated with the PRF (0.3–30 mg/kg) and evaluated in different behavioural paradigms classically used for the screening of drugs with psychoactive effects.

Key findings

Acute intraperitoneal (i.p.) administration of PRF decreased spontaneous locomotor activity (open field arena and activity cage), enhanced the duration of ethyl ether-induced hypnosis, increased the latency to the first convulsion induced by pentylenetetrazole (60 mg/kg, i.p.) and attenuated apomorphine-induced (0.5 mg/kg, i.p.) stereotyped behaviour. In lower doses, PRF (0.3 or 3 mg/kg, i.p.) increased the frequency of open arm entries in the elevated plus-maze test.

Conclusions

The present findings suggest that the systemic administration of PRF induces a wide spectrum of behavioural alterations in rats, consistent with the putative existence of hypnosedative, anticonvulsant and anxiolytic compounds.

Hydroxytyrosol: from laboratory investigations to future clinical trials

Mediterranean countries have lower rates of mortality from cardiovascular disease and cancer than Northern European or other Western countries. This has been attributed, at least in part, to the so-called Mediterranean diet, which is composed of specific local foods, including olive oil. Traditionally, many beneficial properties associated with this oil have been ascribed to its high oleic acid content. Today, it is clear that many of the beneficial effects of ingesting virgin olive oil are due to its minor compounds. This review summarizes the existing knowledge concerning the chemistry, pharmacokinetics, and toxicology of hydroxytyrosol, a minor compound of virgin olive oil, as well as this compound's importance for health. The main findings in terms of its beneficial effects in cardiovascular disease and cancer, including its properties against inflammation and platelet aggregation, are emphasized. New evidence and strategies regarding the use of hydroxytyrosol as a natural drug for the prevention and treatment of diseases with high incidences in Western countries are also presented.