Potent Anti-inflammatory and Analgesic Actions of the Chloroform Extract of Dendropanax morbifera Mediated by the Nrf2/HO-1 Pathway

3,5-DCQA as a Major Molecule in MeJA-Treated Dendropanax morbifera Adventitious Root to Promote Anti-Lung Cancer and Anti-Inflammatory Activities

(1) Background: Phytochemicals are crucial antioxidants that play a significant role in preventing cancer. (2) Methods: We explored the use of methyl jasmonate (MeJA) in the in vitro cultivation of D. morbifera adventitious roots (DMAR) and evaluated its impact on secondary metabolite production in DMAR, optimizing concentration and exposure time for cost-effectiveness. We also assessed its anti-inflammatory and anti-lung cancer activities and related gene expression levels. (3) Results: MeJA treatment significantly increased the production of the phenolic compound 3,5-Di-caffeoylquinic acid (3,5-DCQA). The maximum 3,5-DCQA production was achieved with a MeJA treatment at 40 µM for 36 h. MeJA-DMARE displayed exceptional anti-inflammatory activity by inhibiting the production of nitric oxide (NO) and reactive oxygen species (ROS) in LPS-induced RAW 264.7 cells. Moreover, it downregulated the mRNA expression of key inflammation-related cytokines. Additionally, MeJA-DMARE exhibited anti-lung cancer activity by promoting ROS production in A549 lung cancer cells and inhibiting its migration. It also modulated apoptosis in lung cancer cells via the Bcl-2 and p38 MAPK pathways. (4) Conclusions: MeJA-treated DMARE with increased 3,5-DCQA production holds significant promise as a sustainable and novel material for pharmaceutical applications thanks to its potent antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-lung cancer properties.

Dendropanoxide Attenuates High Glucose-induced Oxidative Damage in NRK-52E Cells via AKT/mTOR Signaling Pathway

Hyperglycemia is a potent risk factor for the development and progression of diabetes-induced nephropathy. Dendropanoxide (DPx) is a natural compound isolated from Dendropanax morbifera (Araliaceae) that exerts various biological effects. However, the role of DPx in hyperglycemia-induced renal tubular cell injury remains unclear. The present study explored the protective mechanism of DPx on high glucose (HG)-induced cytotoxicity in kidney tubular epithelial NRK-52E cells. The cells were cultured with normal glucose (5.6 mM), HG (30 mM), HG + metformin (10 µM), or HG + DPx (10 µM) for 48 h, and cell cycle and apoptosis were analyzed. Malondialdehyde (MDA), advanced glycation end products (AGEs), and reactive oxygen species (ROS) were measured. Protein-based nephrotoxicity biomarkers were measured in both the culture media and cell lysates. MDA and AGEs were significantly increased in NRK-52E cells cultured with HG, and these levels were markedly reduced by pretreatment with DPx or metformin. DPx significantly reduced the levels of kidney injury molecule-1 (KIM-1), pyruvate kinase M2 (PKM2), selenium-binding protein 1 (SBP1), or neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin (NGAL) in NRK-52E cells cultured under HG conditions. Furthermore, treatment with DPx significantly increased antioxidant enzyme activity. DPx protects against HG-induced renal tubular cell damage, which may be mediated by its ability to inhibit oxidative stress through the protein kinase B/mammalian target of the rapamycin (AKT/mTOR) signaling pathway. These findings suggest that DPx can be used as a new drug for the treatment of high glucose-induced diabetic nephropathy.

New advances in Nrf2-mediated analgesic drugs

BACKGROUND

Oxidative stress is an inevitable process that occurs during life activities, and it can participate in the development of inflammation. Although great progress has been made according to research examining analgesic drugs and therapies, there remains a need to develop new analgesic drugs to fill certain gaps in both the experimental and clinical space.

PURPOSE

This review reports the research and preclinical progress of this class of analgesics by summarizing known nuclear factor E-2-related factor-2 (Nrf2) pathway-modulating substances.

STUDY DESIGN

We searched and reported experiments that intervene in the Nrf2 pathway and its various upstream and downstream molecules for analgesic therapy.

METHODS

The medical literature database (PubMed) was searched for experimental studies examining the reduction of pain in animals through the Nrf2 pathway, the research methods were analyzed, and the pathways were classified and reported according to the pathway of these experimental interventions.

RESULTS

Humans have identified a variety of substances that can fight pain by regulating the expression of Nrf2 and its upstream and downstream pathways.

CONCLUSION

The Nrf2 pathway exerts anti-inflammatory activity by regulating oxidative stress, thereby playing a role in the fight against pain.

Protective effect of dendropanoxide against cadmium-induced hepatotoxicity via anti-inflammatory activities in Sprague-Dawley rats

Cadmium (Cd) accumulates in the body through contaminated foods or water and causes pathological damage to the liver via oxidative stress and inflammatory reactions. This study was conducted to explore the effects of dendropanoxide (DPx) on Cd-induced hepatotoxicity in rats. Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats were injected with CdCl2 (7 mg/kg body weight) intraperitoneally for 14 days for the induction of liver dysfunction. The CdCl2-exposed rats were subjected to DPx (10 mg/kg) or silymarin (50 mg/kg). The animals were euthanized after 24 h of the last CdCl2 injection and the serum biochemical parameters, lipid content, pro-inflammatory cytokine levels, apoptotic cell death and histopathology of the tissues were analyzed. Additionally, the activity of antioxidant enzymes, including superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT), was measured. Compared to controls, Cd-injected rats showed significantly elevated serum levels of alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), triglycerides (TG), total cholesterol, and pro-inflammatory cytokines, and a remarkable decrease in SOD and CAT activities. Importantly, Cd-induced liver damage was drastically ameliorated by treatment with DPx or silymarin. Treatment with DPx protected the Cd-induced histopathological hepatic injury, as confirmed by the evaluation of TUNEL assay. DPx treatment significantly reduced Bax and caspase-3 expression in Cd-injected rats. Additionally, HO-1 and NRF2 expressions were significantly increased after DPx administration in the liver of Cd-injected rats. Our data indicate that DPx successfully prevents Cd-induced hepatotoxicity by emphasizing the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effect.

Anti-Periodontitis Effects of Dendropanax morbiferus H.Lév Leaf Extract on Ligature-Induced Periodontitis in Rats

Periodontitis is caused by pathogens in the oral cavity. It is a chronic infectious disease that causes symptoms including gingival bleeding and tooth loss resulting from the destruction of periodontal tissues coupled with inflammation. Dendropanax morbiferus H.Lév (DM) is a natural product that exhibits various biological activities with few side effects. In this study, the potential of DM leaf hot-water extracts (DMWE) as a treatment for periodontitis was determined and its anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory effects were evaluated. Compounds in DMWE were identified by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) and nitric oxide (NO) and prostaglandin E₂ (PGE₂) production was measured in RAW 264.7 cells. We measured the gingival index and gingival sulcus depth, and micro-CT was performed in vivo using a ligature-induced periodontitis rat model, which is similar to human periodontitis. The DMWE-treated group exhibited a decrease in cytokine concentration and relieved the gingival index and gingival sulcus depth compared with the periodontitis-induced control group. In addition, micro-CT and histological analysis revealed that DMWE exhibited anti-inflammatory effects and improved alveolar bone loss in periodontitis-induced rats. These findings suggest that DMWE has excellent anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory effects that protect and prevent periodontal tissue damage and tooth loss caused by the inflammatory response.

Dihydroconiferyl Ferulate Isolated from Dendropanax morbiferus H.Lév. Suppresses Stemness of Breast Cancer Cells via Nuclear EGFR/c-Myc Signaling

Breast cancer is the leading cause of global cancer incidence and breast cancer stem cells (BCSCs) have been identified as the target to overcome breast cancer in patients. In this study, we purified a BCSC inhibitor from Dendropanax morbiferus H.Lév. leaves through several open column and high-performance liquid chromatography via activity-based purification. The purified cancer stem cell (CSC) inhibitor was identified as dihydroconiferyl ferulate using nuclear magnetic resonance and mass spectrometry. Dihydroconiferyl ferulate inhibited the proliferation and mammosphere formation of breast cancer cells and reduced the population of CD44^high/CD24^low cells. Dihydroconiferyl ferulate also induced apoptosis, inhibited the growth of mammospheres and reduced the level of total and nuclear EGFR protein. It suppressed the EGFR levels, the interaction of Stat3 with EGFR, and c-Myc protein levels. Our findings show that dihydroconiferyl ferulate reduced the level of nuclear epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) and induced apoptosis of BCSCs through nEGFR/Stat3-dependent c-Myc deregulation. Dihydroconiferyl ferulate exhibits potential as an anti-CSC agent through nEGFR/Stat3/c-Myc signaling.

Microwave-Assisted Dendropanax morbifera Extract for Cosmetic Applications

Recently, utilizing natural bioactive compounds for active ingredients in cosmetics has become a growing worldwide trend. More and more studies aim to identify the sources of herbal ingredients for applications in the pharmaceutical and cosmetic fields. Additionally, in order to optimize the safety of natural ingredients, choosing an environmentally friendly extraction method also plays an important role. In this work, an eco-friendly extraction technique for Dendropanax morbifera using microwave treatment and microwave-assisted Dendropanax morbifera extract (MA-DME) was investigated. The results indicate that higher yields of MA-DME were obtained than with conventional methods and that D. morbifera’s antioxidant properties were enhanced. Moreover, we found that MA-DME exhibited extraordinary antioxidant, anti-aging, and skin-whitening activities. We suggest MA-DME as a potential cosmeceutical ingredient than could be utilized for comprehensive protection of human skin.

Biological and Molecular Docking Evaluation of a Benzylisothiocyanate Semisynthetic Derivative From Moringa oleifera in a Pre-clinical Study of Temporomandibular Joint Pain

Objective

Moringa oleifera possesses multiple biological effects and the 4-[(4′-O-acetyl-α-L- rhamnosyloxy) benzyl] isothiocyanate accounts for them. Based on the original isothiocyanate molecule we obtained a semisynthetic derivative, named 4-[(2′,3′,4′-O-triacetyl-α-L-rhamnosyloxy) N-benzyl] hydrazine carbothioamide (MC-H) which was safe and effective in a temporomandibular joint (TMJ) inflammatory hypernociception in rats. Therefore, considering that there is still a gap in the knowledge concerning the mechanisms of action through which the MC-H effects are mediated, this study aimed to investigate the involvement of the adhesion molecules (ICAM-1, CD55), the pathways heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) and NO/cGMP/PKG/K⁺_ATP, and the central opioid receptors in the efficacy of the MC-H in a pre-clinical study of TMJ pain.

Methods

Molecular docking studies were performed to test the binding performance of MC-H against the ten targets of interest (ICAM-1, CD55, HO-1, iNOS, soluble cGMP, cGMP-dependent protein kinase (PKG), K⁺_ATP channel, mu (μ), kappa (κ), and delta (δ) opioid receptors). In in vivo studies, male Wistar rats were treated with MC-H 1 μg/kg before TMJ formalin injection and nociception was evaluated. Periarticular tissues were removed to assess ICAM-1 and CD55 protein levels by Western blotting. To investigate the role of HO-1 and NO/cGMP/PKG/K⁺_ATP pathways, the inhibitors ZnPP-IX, aminoguanidine, ODQ, KT5823, or glibenclamide were used. To study the involvement of opioid receptors, rats were pre-treated (15 min) with an intrathecal injection of non-selective inhibitor naloxone or with CTOP, naltrindole, or norbinaltorphimine.

Results

All interactions presented acceptable binding energy values (below −6.0 kcal/mol) which suggest MC-H might strongly bind to its molecular targets. MC-H reduced the protein levels of ICAM-1 and CD55 in periarticular tissues. ZnPP-IX, naloxone, CTOP, and naltrindole reversed the antinociceptive effect of MC-H.

Conclusion

MC-H demonstrated antinociceptive and anti-inflammatory effects peripherally by the activation of the HO-1 pathway, as well as through inhibition of the protein levels of adhesion molecules, and centrally by μ and δ opioid receptors.

The efficacy and safety of Dendropanax morbifera leaf extract on the metabolic syndrome: a 12-week, placebo controlled, double blind, and randomized controlled trial

BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES

SUBJECTS/METHODS

RESULTS

CONCLUSIONS

Trial Registration

Dendropanoxide, a Triterpenoid from Dendropanax morbifera, Ameliorates Hepatic Fibrosis by Inhibiting Activation of Hepatic Stellate Cells through Autophagy Inhibition

Hepatic fibrosis results from chronic liver damage and is characterized by excessive accumulation of extracellular matrix (ECM). In this study, we showed that dendropanoxide (DPX), isolated from Dendropanax morbifera, had anti-fibrotic effects on hepatic fibrosis by inhibiting hepatic stellate cell (HSC) activation. DPX suppressed mRNA and protein expression of α-SMA, fibronectin, and collagen in activated HSCs. Moreover, DPX (40 mg/kg) treatment significantly lowered levels of liver injury markers (aspartate aminotransferase and alanine transaminase), expression of fibrotic markers, and deposition of ECM in a carbon tetrachloride-induced mouse model. Anti-fibrotic effects of DPX were comparable to those of silymarin in a hepatic fibrosis mouse model. As a possible mechanism of anti-fibrotic effects, we showed that DPX inhibited autophagosome formation (LC3B-II) and degradation of p62, which have important roles in HSC activation. These findings suggest that DPX inhibits HSC activation by inhibiting autophagy and can be utilized in hepatic fibrosis therapy.

Photobiomodulation exerts anti-inflammatory effects on the vascular and cellular phases of experimental inflammatory models

Photobiomodulation therapy (PBMT) is a non-thermal therapeutic procedure widely used in clinical practice. It is considered an effective modality of treatment for the control of various inflammatory conditions with fewer adverse effects as compared to conventional therapy. However, despite the clinical effects, the mechanisms of action and dosimetric parameters of PBMT are not fully understood. This study was performed to describe the effects of two different doses of PBMT on experimental models of inflammation. Male Swiss mice were administered with 0.9% of saline or phlogistic agents (carrageenan, dextran, serotonin, histamine, or bradykinin) by intra-plantar injection and were treated with PBMT at a dose of 1 or 5 J/cm²; right after, the variation of the paw volume was made, and histopathological analysis and myeloperoxidase assay of the carrageenan-induced edematous paw tissues were performed. The action of PBMT on carrageenan-induced vascular permeability was further evaluated. Our results showed that PBMT (1 J/cm²) led to an improvement in paw edema induced by the phlogistic agents and further reduced the histological scores. Inhibition of neutrophil migration was observed following the administration of 1 and 5 J/cm² of PBMT. However, only 1 J/cm² of PBMT showed beneficial effects on carrageenan-induced edema. Laser at a dose of 1 J/cm² showed cellular and vascular effects since it was able to reverse all the inflammatory parameters, and laser at a dose of 5 J/cm² probably has only cellular effects in the presence of acute inflammation.

Dendropanax Morbiferus and Other Species from the Genus Dendropanax: Therapeutic Potential of Its Traditional Uses, Phytochemistry, and Pharmacology

The Dendropanax genus is a kind of flowering plant in the family of Araliaceae that encompasses approximately 91 to 95 species. Several Dendropanax species are used as traditional medicinal plants, extensively used Korea and South America and other parts of the world. Almost every part of the plant, including the leaves, bark, roots, and stems, can be used as traditional medicine for the prevention and management of a broad spectrum of health disorders. This paper sought to summarizes the ethnopharmacological benefits, biological activities, and phytochemical investigations of plants from the genus Dendropanax, and perhaps to subsequently elucidate potential new perspectives for future pharmacological research to consider. Modern scientific literature suggests that plants of the Dendropanax genus, together with active compounds isolated from it, possess a wide range of therapeutic and pharmacological applications, including antifungal, anti-complement, antioxidant, antibacterial, insect antifeedant, cytotoxic, anti-inflammatory, neuroprotective, anti-diabetic, anti-cancer, and anti-hypouricemic properties. The botanical descriptions of approximately six to 10 species are provided by different scientific web sources. However, only six species, namely, D. morbiferus, D. gonatopodus, D. dentiger, D. capillaris, D. chevalieri, and D. arboreus, were included in the present investigation to undergo phytochemical evaluation, due to the unavailability of data for the remaining species. Among these plant species, a high concentration of variable bioactive ingredients was identified. In particular, D. morbifera is a traditional medicinal plant used for the multiple treatment purposes and management of several human diseases or health conditions. Previous experimental evidence supports that the D. morbifera species could be used to treat various inflammatory disorders, diarrhea, diabetes, cancer, and some microbial infections. It has recently been reported, by our group and other researchers, that D. morbifera possesses a neuroprotective and memory-enhancing agent. A total of 259 compounds have been identified among six species, with 78 sourced from five of these species reported to be bioactive. However, there is no up-to-date information concerning the D. morbifera, its different biological properties, or its prospective benefits in the enhancement of human health. In the present study, we set out to conduct a comprehensive analysis of the botany, traditional medicinal history, and medicinal resources of species of the Dendropanax genus. In addition, we explore several phytochemical constituents identified in different species of the Dendropanax genus and their biological properties. Finally, we offer comprehensive analysis findings of the phytochemistry, medicinal uses, pharmacological actions, and a toxicity and safety evaluation of the D. morbifera species and its main bioactive ingredients for future consideration.

Anti-Metastatic Effects of Plant Sap-Derived Extracellular Vesicles in a 3D Microfluidic Cancer Metastasis Model

Natural medicinal plants have attracted considerable research attention for their potential as effective drugs. The roots, leaves and stems of the plant, Dendropanax morbifera, which is endemic to southern regions of Asia, have long been used as a folk medicine to treat variety of diseases. However, the sap of this plant has not been widely studied and its bioactive properties have yet to be clearly elucidated. Here, we isolated extracellular vesicles from D. morbifera sap with the goal of improving the intracellular delivery efficiency and clinical effectiveness of bioactive compounds in D. morbifera sap. We further investigated the anti-metastatic effects of D. morbifera sap-derived extracellular vesicles (DMS-EVs) using a cancer metastasis model based on 3D microfluidic system that closely mimics the in vivo tumor environment. We found that DMS-EVs exerted a concentration-dependent suppressive effect on cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs), which are important mediators of cancer metastasis. DMS-EVs also altered expression level of genes, especially growth factor and extracellular matrix (ECM)-related genes, including integrin and collagen. Our findings suggest that DMS-EVs can act as anti-CAF agents to reduce CAFs in the tumor microenvironment. They further indicate the utility of our 3D microfluidic model for various drug-screening assays as a potential alternative to animal testing for use in validating therapeutic effects on cancer metastasis.

Neuroprotective effects of Dendropanax morbifera leaves on glutamate-induced oxidative cell death in HT22 mouse hippocampal neuronal cells

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Dendropanax morbifera (DM) has long been used as a traditional herbal medicine for migraines. Glutamate toxicity and oxidative stress have emerged as the possible triggers implicated in migraine pathogenesis.

AIM OF THE STUDY

We aimed to examine the neuroprotective effects of DM leaves (DML) on glutamate-induced oxidative cell death in HT22 mouse hippocampal neuronal cells.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Molecular authentication of DML was assessed using DNA barcoding analysis. Four different solvent extracts of DML were prepared and subjected to antioxidant activity and phytochemical assays. Neuroprotective effects of DML extracts were evaluated using relevant biochemical and imaging assays that measure cell viability/death, ROS generation, Ca²⁺ levels, mitochondrial dysfunction, and AIF nuclear translocation.

RESULTS

The sequences of matK, rbcL, atpF-H, and psbK-I in DML were identical with those in voucher specimens, confirming that DML was indeed D. morbifera. The ethyl acetate extract of DML (DMLE) showed the highest flavonoid and phenolic content, and prominent DPPH/superoxide radical scavenging and reducing power activities. In the HT22 cell model, glutamate was shown to be the causative agent for apoptotic cell death via elevation of intracellular ROS and Ca²⁺ levels, induction of mitochondrial depolarization and membrane permeabilization, and translocation of AIF to the nucleus. Of note, N-acetyl-L-cysteine and necrostatin-1, but not z-VAD-fmk, completely prevented glutamate-induced cell death, implying that oxidative stress and AIF translocation were pivotal in glutamate cytotoxicity. DMLE significantly recovered glutamate-induced apoptotic cell death in a concentration-dependent manner. It completely inhibited intracellular/mitochondrial ROS generation, the elevation of Ca²⁺ levels, and mitochondrial dysfunction induced by glutamate during early exposure within 8 h. It significantly reversed subsequent AIF nuclear translocation after 12 h of treatment. Antioxidant activities of DMLE may be the protective mechanism that regulates homeostatic balance of ROS and Ca²⁺ as well as maintains mitochondrial function.

CONCLUSIONS

DMLE shows significant neuroprotective effects against glutamate-induced oxidative neuronal cell death. Therefore, DM could be a potential therapeutic candidate for neurological disorders propagated by glutamate toxicity.

Cytotoxic Effects of Plant Sap-Derived Extracellular Vesicles on Various Tumor Cell Types

Edible plants have been widely used in traditional therapeutics because of the biological activities of their natural ingredients, including anticancer, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties. Plant sap contains such medicinal substances and their secondary metabolites provide unique chemical structures that contribute to their therapeutic efficacy. Plant extracts are known to contain a variety of extracellular vesicles (EVs) but the effects of such EVs on various cancers have not been investigated. Here, we extracted EVs from four plants-Dendropanax morbifera, Pinus densiflora, Thuja occidentalis, and Chamaecyparis obtusa-that are known to have cytotoxic effects. We evaluated the cytotoxic effects of these EVs by assessing their ability to selectively reduce the viability of various tumor cell types compared with normal cells and low metastatic cells. EVs from D. morbifera and P. densiflora sap showed strong cytotoxic effects on tumor cells, whereas those from T. occidentalis and C. obtusa had no significant effect on any tumor cell types. We also identified synergistic effect of EVs from D. morbifera and P. densiflora saps on breast and skin tumor cells and established optimized treatment concentrations. Our findings suggest these EVs from plant sap as new candidates for cancer treatment.

Thymoquinone attenuates IgE-mediated allergic response via pi3k-Akt-NFκB pathway and upregulation of the Nrf2-HO1 axis

IgE-dependent reactions mediate the majority of allergic diseases. This study explores the effects of thymoquinone (Tq) on IgE-mediated allergic response in activated mast cells, basophils, and neutrophils. Tq treatment resulted in a dose-dependent decrease in levels of TNF-α and IL-4 in activated RBL-2H3 cells. Tq inhibited the degranulation of these cells with an IC₅₀ value of 56.37 µM. Moreover, the compound suppressed basophil activation induced through FcεRI receptors with an IC₅₀ value of 45.76 µM in heparinized human whole blood. Likewise, neutrophil migration and elastase activity were dose-dependently reduced. While Tq decreased the phosphorylation of Akt and NFκB in activated RBL-2H3 cells, it increased nuclear Nrf2 and HO-1 antioxidant proteins. Our results indicate that Tq possesses demonstrable activity in cellular models of IgE-mediated allergic reactions. PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS: The current study sheds light on the mechanistic pathways of Tq on IgE-based response in activated mast cells, basophils, and neutrophils. The output of this preclinical in vitro study may be translated into better chemotherapeutic applications of Tq and its analogs in the treatment of allergic inflammation. However, a detailed investigation of in vivo models is recommended.

Protective Effects of Dendropanax morbifera against Cisplatin-Induced Nephrotoxicity without Altering Chemotherapeutic Efficacy

Use of the chemotherapeutic agent cisplatin (CDDP) in cancer patients is limited by the occurrence of acute kidney injury (AKI); however, no protective therapy is available. We aimed to investigate the renoprotective effects of Dendropanax morbifera water extract (DM) on CDDP-induced AKI. Male Sprague-Dawley rats (six animals/group) received: Vehicle (control); CDDP (6 mg/kg, intraperitoneally (i.p.); DM (25 mg/kg, oral); or DM + CDDP injection. CDDP treatment significantly increased blood urea nitrogen (BUN), serum creatinine (sCr), and pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-6 and TNF-α), and severely damaged the kidney architecture. Urinary excretion of protein-based AKI biomarkers also increased in the CDDP-treated group. In contrast, DM ameliorated CDDP-induced AKI biomarkers. It markedly protected against CDDP-induced oxidative stress by increasing the activity of endogenous antioxidants and reducing the levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-6 and TNF-α). The protective effect of DM in the proximal tubules was evident upon histopathological examination. In a tumor xenograft model, administration of DM enhanced the chemotherapeutic activity of CDDP and exhibited renoprotective effects against CDDP-induced nephrotoxicity without altering chemotherapeutic efficacy. Our data demonstrate that DM may be an adjuvant therapy with CDDP in solid tumor patients to preserve renal function.

Preclinical study of safety of Dendropanax morbifera Leveille leaf extract: General and genetic toxicology

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY RELEVANCE

Dendropanax morbifera Leveille (DM) has been used in traditional medicines for infectious and skin diseases, and dysmenorrhea. It exhibits a diverse therapeutic potential including anti-cancer, anti-thrombotic, anti-diabetic, anti-oxidant, and anti-inflammatory activities.

AIM OF THE STUDY

Despite promising health benefits of DM, knowledge of its potential adverse effects is very limited. The current study focused on the investigation of subchronic toxicity and genotoxicity of extract obtained from DM according to the test guidelines published by the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We conducted a toxicological evaluation of DM extracts using 14-day repeated-dose toxicity study and 13-week repeated-dose toxicity study in Sprague-Dawley rats administered orally at doses of 500, 1000, or 2000 mg/kg/day. The clastogenicity of DM extract was also evaluated by in vitro chromosome aberration assay and in vivo micronucleus assay.

RESULTS

Assessment of subchronic toxicity of DM extract by oral administration in rats revealed unremarkable treatment-related findings with respect to food/water consumption, body weight, mortality, urinalysis, hematology, serum biochemistry, necropsy, organ weight and histopathology at doses of 500, 1000, and 2000 mg/kg. Accordingly, the level of no-observed-adverse-effect for DM extract in 13-week subchronic toxicity study was considered to be 2000 mg/kg/day in rats. The data observed from in vitro chromosome aberration assay and in vivo micronucleus assay exclude any clastogenicity of DM extract.

CONCLUSION

The results suggest that the oral consumption of DM extract has no adverse effects in humans and represents a safe traditional medicine.

Dendropanax morbiferus leaf extract facilitates oligodendrocyte development

Treatment of multiple sclerosis is effective when anti-inflammatory, neuroprotective and regenerative strategies are combined. Dendropanax morbiferus (DM) has anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidative properties, which may be beneficial for multiple sclerosis. However, there have been no reports on the effects of DM on myelination, which is critical for regenerative processes. To know whether DM benefits myelination, we checked differentiation and myelination of oligodendrocytes (OLs) in various primary culture systems treated with DM leaf EtOH extracts or control. DM extracts increased the OL membrane size in the mixed glial and pure OL precursor cell (OPC) cultures and changed OL-lineage gene expression patterns in the OPC cultures. Western blot analysis of DM-treated OPC cultures showed upregulation of MBP and phosphorylation of ERK1/2. In myelinating cocultures, DM extracts enhanced OL differentiation, followed by increased axonal contacts and myelin gene upregulations such as Myrf, CNP and PLP. Phytochemical analysis by LC-MS/MS identified multiple components from DM extracts, containing bioactive molecules such as quercetin, cannabidiol, etc. Our results suggest DM extracts enhance OL differentiation, followed by an increase in membrane size and axonal contacts, thereby indicating enhanced myelination. In addition, we found that DM extracts contain multiple bioactive components, warranting further studies in relation to finding effective components for enhancing myelination.

An in vivo immunomodulatory and anti-inflammatory study of fermented Dendropanax morbifera Léveille leaf extract

Background

Medicinal plants represent a source of new drugs for the prevention and treatment of infectious diseases. Dendropanax morbifera Léveille is an economically and medicinally important subtropical tree that has various biological activities. However, its ability to affect immune responses in vivo is unknown. Hence, this study was designed to examine the immunomodulatory activity of fermented D. morbifera extract in BALB/c mice.

Methods

five-week-old female BALB/c mice were arranged in six groups and kept under a standard laboratory condition. Splenocyte counts were determined using the trypan blue dye exclusion method, and splenic lymphocyte proliferation was determined using concanavalin A and lipopolysaccharide (LPS). Flow cytometric analysis was performed to phenotype T-lymphocytes. Next, cytokine and immunoglobulin quantitation was performed using sandwich ELISA.

Results

The results showed an increase in spleen cells by 71 and 67% in mice treated with 125 and 250 mg/kg of D. morbifera, respectively. In addition, splenocyte proliferation was increased 58.7% in response to concanavalin A treatment, while LPS treatment induced a 73.3% increase in mice treated with 125 mg/kg. T-cell phenotypic analysis indicated that D. morbifera-treated groups showed higher CD8a+, CD11b and CD3+ T-cell expression. However, the treatment groups showed suppression of IL-1α, Il-1β and IL-4. In addition, the IgG super-family was downregulated in a dose-dependent manner by 4.5% up to 43.7%.

Conclusions

Taken together, we show that D. morbifera increases the number and proliferation of T- and B-lymphocytes. Moreover, these effects may play a role in boosting non-specific immunity, while suppressing proinflammatory cytokines and immunoglobulins after a single antigen exposure.

Ethyl Acetate Fraction from Dendropanax morbifera Leaves Increases T Cell Growth by Upregulating NF-AT-Mediated IL-2 Secretion

Dendropanax morbifera Leveille (Araliaceae) is an endemic species that grows in Southwestern Korea and has been used as a folk medicine. Several studies reported that D. morbifera leaves have diverse therapeutic potentials. We found that the water extract of D. morbifera leaves increased the growth of EL-4 T cells. The water extract was divided into five fractions: [Formula: see text]-hexane, chloroform, ethyl acetate, [Formula: see text]-butanol, and water layers. The ethyl acetate (W-EA) fraction showed a more significant effect than the other fractions on the growth of EL-4 T cells, splenocytes, and isolated murine CD4[Formula: see text] T cells. We evaluated the W-EA fraction for its immunomodulatory effects focusing on T cell functions. First, we tested the effect of the W-EA fraction on the regulation of interleukin-2 (IL-2), a potent T cell growth factor. The W-EA fraction significantly increased IL-2 secretion in EL-4 T cells activated with phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate (PMA) and ionomycin (Io). In addition, the W-EA fraction increased interferon-gamma (IFN-[Formula: see text] production in isolated murine splenocytes activated with Concanavalin A (ConA). Next, we examined the effect of the W-EA fraction on the regulation of transcriptional factors related to IL-2 production in T cells. The W-EA fraction significantly increased PMA/Io-induced promoter activity of a nuclear factor of activated T cells (NF-AT) in EL-4 T cells, but did not show any significant effects on the promoters of nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells (NF-[Formula: see text]B). These results indicate that the W-EA fraction from water extract of D. morbifera leaves enhances IL-2 production at the transcriptional levels via the up-regulation of NF-AT in PMA/Io-activated EL-4 T cells.

Development and Validation of a HPLC-UV Method for Extraction Optimization and Biological Evaluation of Hot-Water and Ethanolic Extracts of Dendropanax morbifera Leaves

Dendropanax morbifera Leveille (Araliaceae) has been used in traditional oriental remedies for cancer, inflammation, diabetes, and thrombosis. However, a validated analytical method, standardization, and optimization of extraction conditions with respect to biological activity have not been reported. In this study, a simple and validated HPLC method for identifying and quantifying active substances in D. morbifera was developed. Hot water and ethanolic D. morbifera leaf extracts from different production regions were prepared and evaluated with regard to their chemical compositions and biological activities. The contents of active compounds such as rutin and chlorogenic acid were determined in four samples collected from different regions. The 80% ethanolic extract showed the best antioxidant activity, phenolic content, reducing power, and xanthine oxidase (XO) inhibitory activity. The validated HPLC method confirmed the presence of chlorogenic acid and rutin in D. morbifera leaf extracts. The antioxidant and XO inhibitory activity of D. morbifera extract could be attributed to the marker compounds. Collectively, these results suggest that D. morbifera leaves could be beneficial for the treatment or prevention of hyperuricemia-related disease, and the validated HPLC method could be a useful tool for the quality control of food or drug formulations containing D. morbifera.

Dendropanax morbifera Léveille extract ameliorates D-galactose-induced memory deficits by decreasing inflammatory responses in the hippocampus

In the present study, we examined the effects of Dendropanax morbifera Léveille leaf extract (DML) on D-galactose-induced morphological changes in microglia and cytokines, including pro-inflammatory cytokines (interleukin [IL]-1β, IL-6, and tumor necrosis factor [TNF]-α) and anti-inflammatory cytokines (IL-4 and IL-10) in the hippocampus. Administration of DML to D-galactose-treated mice significantly improved D-galactose-induced reduction in escape latency, swimming speed, and spatial preference for the target quadrant. In addition, administration of DML to D-galactose-treated mice significantly ameliorated the microglial activation and increases of IL-1β, IL-6, and TNF-α levels in the hippocampus. Administration of D-galactose significantly reduced IL-4 levels in the hippocampus, while administration of DML to D-galactose-treated mice significantly increased IL-4 level. However, we did not observe any significant changes in IL-10 levels in hippocampal homogenates. These results suggest that DML reduces D-galactose-induced mouse senescence by reducing pro-inflammatory cytokines such as IL-1β, IL-6, and TNF-α, as well as increasing anti-inflammatory cytokine IL-4.

The Clinical Effects of Dendropanax Morbifera on Postmenopausal Symptoms: Review Article

Postmenopausal women aged 50s generally experience gradual changes in body such as decline in antioxidant and estrogen levels as the body ages. To overcome these aging-associated changes, the needs for health functional foods are increasing. Dendropanax morbifera (DM) have antioxidant effects, anti-inflammatory against cancer cells, antidiabetic, and antiatherogenic effect which are associated with postmenopausal symptoms. We analyzed clinical effects of DM on aging-related symptoms by reporting their antioxidant, anticancer and inflammatory activity, etc. and their bioactivity. Data sources EMBASE, SCOPUS, PubMed, Web of Science, and Google Scholar databases were searched up to August 2016 for studies investigating medicinal plants in prevention and treatment of diabetes. The search terms were “Dendropanax morbifera”. The reference lists of articles were also reviewed for additional relevant studies. Extracts of DM have various efficacy such as antioxidant, anti-cancer, anti-inflammatory activity and anti-thrombotic effect.

Polydatin inhibits mast cell-mediated allergic inflammation by targeting PI3K/Akt, MAPK, NF-κB and Nrf2/HO-1 pathways

Polydatin(PD) shows anti-allergic inflammatory effect, and this study investigated its underlying mechanisms in in vitro and in vivo models. IgE-mediated passive cutaneous anaphylaxis (PCA) and passive systemic anaphylaxis (PSA) models were used to confirm PD effect in vivo. Various signaling pathway proteins in mast cell were examined. RT-PCR, ELISA and western blotting were applied when appropriate. Activity of Lyn and Fyn kinases in vitro was measured using the Kinase Enzyme System. PD dose-dependently reduced the pigmentation of Evans blue in the PCA model and decreased the concentration of serum histamine in PSA model, and attenuated the degranulation of mast cells without generating cytotoxicity. PD decreased pro-inflammatory cytokine expression (TNF-α, IL-4, IL-1β, and IL-8). PD directly inhibited activity of Lyn and Syk kinases and down-regulated downstream signaling pathway including MAPK, PI3K/AKT and NF-kB. In addition, PD also targets Nrf2/HO-1 pathway to inhibit mast cell-derived allergic inflammatory reactions. In conclusion, the study demonstrates that PD is a possible therapeutic candidate for allergic inflammatory diseases. It directly inhibited activity of Lyn and Syk kinases and down-regulates the signaling pathway of MAPK, PI3K/AKT and NF-κB, and up-regulates the signaling pathway of Nrf2/HO-1 to inhibit the degranulation of mast cells.

Evaluation of anti-inflammatory potential of aqueous extract and polysaccharide fraction of Thuja occidentalis Linn. in mice

Inflammation is a protective reaction of the microcirculation. However, sustained inflammation can lead to undesired effects. Thuja occidentalis Linn has many pharmacological properties but has no anti-inflammatory activity described. Thus, this study aims evaluating the anti-inflammatory activity of the aqueous extract (AE) and the polysaccharide fraction (PLS) of T. occidentalis L. in mice. The results of our evaluations in various experimental models indicated that AE and PLS (3, 10, and 30mg/kg, i.p.) reduced (p˂0.05) paw edema induced by carrageenan, dextran sulfate (DEX), compound 48/80, serotonin (5-HT), bradykinin (BK), histamine (HIST), and prostaglandin E2 (PGE2). Furthermore, it inhibited neutrophils recruitment; decreased MPO activity, tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) and interleukin-6 (IL-6) levels, vascular permeability, nitrite concentration, and MDA concentration; and maintained the GSH levels in the peritoneal exudate. The AE and PLS reduced neutrophil infiltration and cyclooxygenase (COX)-2 and inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) immunostaining in paw tissue. Treatment with the AE and PLS (300mg/kg) did not induce gastric toxicity. In conclusion, these results show that the AE and PLS reduced the inflammatory response by inhibiting vascular and cellular events, inhibiting pro-inflammatory cytokine production, and reducing oxidative stress. Furthermore, they did not induce gastric toxicity at high doses.

Tetradecanol reduces EL-4 T cell growth by the down regulation of NF-κB mediated IL-2 secretion

Tetradecanol is a straight-chain saturated fatty alcohol purified from Dendropanax morbifera leaves. We found that tetradecanol (30μM) reduced specifically the growth of T cells such as EL-4 T cell and isolated murine CD4⁺ T cells. In this study, we investigated the effects of tetradecanol on the regulation of interlukin-2 (IL-2), a potent T cell growth factor. Tetradecanol significantly inhibited IL-2 secretion in EL-4 T cells activated with phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate (PMA) plus ionomycin (Io) and also in isolated murine CD4⁺ T cells activated with anti-CD3 and anti-CD28 antibodies. Next, we examined the effect of tetradecanol on the transcriptional activity related to IL-2 production in T cells. Tetradecanol decreased PMA/Io-induced promoter activity of NF-κB in EL-4 T cells, but did not show any significant effects on the promoters of activator protein 1 (AP-1) and nuclear factor of activated T cells (NF-AT). Tetradecanol inhibited IκBα degradation and nuclear translocation of NF-κB subunit, p65 in PMA/Io-activated EL-4 T cells. These results suggest that tetradecanol might have immunosuppressive effects on T cell mediated disorders. Using a chronic allergic contact dermatitis model induced by repeated application of oxazolone, we showed that tetradecanol reduced ear thickness induced by oxazolone.