Medical benefits of using natural compounds and their derivatives having multiple pharmacological actions

Targeting SARS-CoV2 spike glycoprotein: molecular insights into phytocompounds binding interactions - in-silico molecular docking

This study utilized small molecular characterization and docking study to evaluate the binding affinity of seven antiviral phytocompounds with the SARS CoV-2 variants (SARS-CoV-2 Spike Glycoprotein, SARS-CoV-2 Spike Protein Variant in 1-RBD, Alpha Variant SARS-CoV2- Spike Protein). The results revealed that five of seven compounds, possesses excellent drug lead property reveled through in-silico ADMET analysis. In addition, six of seven except D-Glucosamine, exhibited excellent binding affinity. Six ligands possess significant binding affinity towards SARS-CoV-2 variants 6VXX, 7LWV and 7R13, which is certainly greater than Remdesivir. Fagaronine found to be the best drug candidate against SARS-CoV-2 variants, It was found that -7.4, -5.6 and -6.3 is the docking score respectively. Aranotin, Beta aescin, Gliotoxin, and Fagaronine formed hydrogen bonds with specific amino acids and exhibited significant binding interactions. These findings suggest that these phytocompounds could be promising candidates for developing antiviral therapies against SARS-CoV-2. Moreover, the study underscores the importance of molecular docking in understanding protein-ligand interactions and its role in drug discovery. The documented pharmacological properties of these compounds in the literature further support their potential therapeutic relevance in various diseases.

Antiemetic activity of abietic acid possibly through the 5HT3 and muscarinic receptors interaction pathways

The present study was designed to evaluate the antiemetic activity of abietic acid (AA) using in vivo and in silico studies. To assess the effect, doses of 50 mg/kg b.w. copper sulfate (CuSO4⋅5H2O) were given orally to 2-day-old chicks. The test compound (AA) was given orally at two doses of 20 and 40 mg/kg b.w. On the other hand, aprepitant (16 mg/kg), domperidone (6 mg/kg), diphenhydramine (10 mg/kg), hyoscine (21 mg/kg), and ondansetron (5 mg/kg) were administered orally as positive controls (PCs). The vehicle was used as a control group. Combination therapies with the referral drugs were also given to three separate groups of animals to see the synergistic and antagonizing activity of the test compound. Molecular docking and visualization of ligand-receptor interaction were performed using different computational tools against various emesis-inducing receptors (D2, D3, 5HT3, H1, and M1-M5). Furthermore, the pharmacokinetics and toxicity properties of the selected ligands were predicted by using the SwissADME and Protox-II online servers. Findings indicated that AA dose-dependently enhances the latency of emetic retching and reduces the number of retching compared to the vehicle group. Among the different treatments, animals treated with AA (40 mg/kg) exhibited the highest latency (98 ± 2.44 s) and reduced the number of retching (11.66 ± 2.52 times) compared to the control groups. Additionally, the molecular docking study indicated that AA exhibits the highest binding affinity (- 10.2 kcal/mol) toward the M4 receptors and an elevated binding affinity toward the receptors 5HT3 (- 8.1 kcal/mol), M1 (- 7.7 kcal/mol), M2 (- 8.7 kcal/mol), and H1 (- 8.5 kcal/mol) than the referral ligands. Taken together, our study suggests that AA has potent antiemetic effects by interacting with the 5TH3 and muscarinic receptor interaction pathways. However, additional extensive pre-clinical and clinical studies are required to evaluate the efficacy and toxicity of AA.

Current Landscape of Therapeutics for the Management of Hypertension - A Review

Hypertension is a critical health problem. It is also the primary reason for coronary heart disease, stroke, and renal vascular disease. The use of herbal drugs in the management of any disease is increasing. They are considered the best immune booster to fight against several types of diseases. To date, the demand for herbal drugs has been increasing because of their excellent properties. This review highlights antihypertensive drugs, polyphenols, and synbiotics for managing hypertension. Evidence is mounting in favour of more aggressive blood pressure control with reduced adverse effects, especially for specific patient populations. This review aimed to present contemporary viewpoints and novel treatment options, including cutting-edge technological applications and emerging interventional and pharmaceutical therapies, as well as key concerns arising from several years of research and epidemiological observations related to the management of hypertension.

Role of Network Pharmacology in Prediction of Mechanism of Neuroprotective Compounds

Network pharmacology is an emerging pioneering approach in the drug discovery process, which is used to predict the therapeutic mechanism of compounds using various bioinformatic tools and databases. Emerging studies have indicated the use of network pharmacological approaches in various research fields, particularly in the identification of possible mechanisms of herbal compounds/ayurvedic formulations in the management of various diseases. These techniques could also play an important role in the prediction of the possible mechanisms of neuroprotective compounds. The first part of the chapter includes an introduction on neuroprotective compounds based on literature. Further, network pharmacological approaches are briefly discussed. The use of network pharmacology in the prediction of the neuroprotective mechanism of compounds is discussed in detail with suitable examples. Finally, the chapter concludes with the current challenges and future prospectives.

Exploration of the Potential Mechanisms of Lingqihuangban Granule for Treating Diabetic Retinopathy Based on Network Pharmacology

BACKGROUND

The Lingqihuangban Granule (LQHBG), a remarkable Chinese herbal compound, has been used for decades to treat diabetic retinopathy (DR) in the Department of Ophthalmology, Shanghai General Hospital (National Clinical Research Center for Eye Diseases) with obvious effects. Through the method of network pharmacology, the present study constructed bioactive component-relative targets and protein-protein interaction network of the LQHBG and implemented gene function analysis and pathway enrichment of targets, discussing the mechanisms of traditional Chinese medicine LQHBG in treating DR.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The bioactive ingredients of LQHBG were screened and obtained using TCMSP and ETCM databases, while the potential targets of bioactive ingredients were predicted by SwissTargetPrediction and ETCM databases. Compared with the disease target databases of TTD, Drugbank, OMIM and DisGeNET, the therapeutic targets of LQHBG for DR were extracted. Based on the DAVID platform, GO annotation and KEGG pathway analyses of key targets were explored, combined with the screening of core pathways on the Omicshare database and pathway annotation on the Reactome database.

RESULTS

A total of 357 bioactive components were screened from LQHBG, involving 86 possible targets of LQHBG treating DR. In the PPI network, INS and ALB were identified as key genes. The effective targets were enriched in multiple signaling pathways, such as PI3K/Akt and MAPK pathways.

CONCLUSION

This study revealed the possible targets and pathways of LQHBG treating DR, reflecting the characteristics of multicomponent, multitarget and multipathway treatment of a Chinese herbal compound, and provided new ideas for further discussion.

Assessment of Antidiabetic Potential and Phytochemical Profiling of Viscum album, a Traditional Antidiabetic Plant

The traditional antidiabetic plant Viscum album (V. album) was collected from the oak plant in the wild at Maidan, Khyber District, of Pakistan, for assessment of its antidiabetic potential and phytochemical profile. Lowering of blood glucose level, antioxidant effect, lipids profile, liver function marker enzymes, and kidney function markers were evaluated in extract and glibenclamide treated groups, in normal as well as in diabetic control groups. An elevated level of blood glucose level, lipids (Cholesterol, TG, LDL), liver function marker enzymes (ALT, AST, ALP), and kidney function markers (bilirubin, creatinine, urea) were observed in alloxan-induced diabetic rats; however, a HDL level was decreased. Administration of V. album hydroalcoholic extract for 28 days renovated significantly ( $p<0.05$ ) all the above biochemical parameters. The antioxidant enzymes SOD, CAT, and GPX were also considerably restored. In vitro, antioxidant assay indicated that the extract of 2,000 µg/mL scavenges free radicals of DPPH 68.4%, ABTS 69.5%, and H2O2 50.6%. The extracts revealed the presence of saponins, flavonoids, alkaloids, terpene, tannins, phenols, protein, amino acids, sterols, and glycosides. The extract has shown phenolic contents 421 ± 4.8 mg GAE/100 g d. w and flavonoids content 127 ± 1.4 mg equiv. Rut/100 g d. w. The findings of this research recommend V. album could be a potent source of natural antidiabetic constituents.

Systematic analysis of the pharmacological function of Schisandra as a potential exercise supplement

[Purpose] Exercise can prevent conditions such as atrophy and degenerative brain diseases. However, owing to individual differences in athletic ability, exercise supplements can be used to improve a person’s exercise capacity. Schisandra chinensis (SC) is a natural product with various physiologically active effects. In this study, we analyzed SC using a pharmacological network and determined whether it could be used as an exercise supplement.[Methods] The active compounds of SC and target genes were identified using the Traditional Chinese Medicine Database and Analysis Platform (TCMSP). The active compound and target genes were selected based on pharmacokinetic (PK) conditions (oral bioavailability (OB) ≥ 30%, Caco-2 permeability (Caco-2) ≥ -0.4, and drug-likeness (DL) ≥ 0.18). Gene ontology (GO) was analyzed using the Cytoscape software.[Results] Eight active compounds were identified according to the PK conditions. Twenty-one target genes were identified after excluding duplicates in the eight active compounds. The top 10 GOs were analyzed using GO-biological process analysis. GO was subsequently divided into three representative categories: postsynaptic neurotransmitter receptor activity (53.85%), an intracellular steroid hormone receptor signaling pathway (36.46%), and endopeptidase activity (10%). SC is related to immune function.[Conclusion] According to the GO analysis, SC plays a role in immunity and inflammation, promotes liver metabolism, improves fatigue, and regulates the function of steroid receptors. Therefore, we suggest SC as an exercise supplement with nutritional and anti-fatigue benefits.

Anti-inflammatory Effects of a Novel Herbal Extract in the Muscle and Spinal Cord of an Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis Animal Model

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a complex disease characterized by motor neuron loss and muscle atrophy. There is no prominent treatment for ALS as the pathogenic process in the skeletal muscle and spinal cord is complex and multifactorial. Therefore, we investigated the effects of a herbal formula on the multi-target effects in the skeletal muscle and spinal cord in hSOD1G93A transgenic mice. We prepared a herbal extract (HE) from Glycyrrhiza uralensis, Atractylodes macrocephala Koidzumi, Panax ginseng, and Astragalus membranaceus. Control and HE-treated mice underwent rotarod and footprint tests. We also performed immunohistochemical and Western blotting analyses to assess expression of inflammation-related and oxidative stress-related proteins in the muscle and spinal cord tissues. We found that the HE increased motor activity and reduced motor neuron loss in hSOD1G93A mice. In addition, the HE significantly reduced the levels of inflammatory proteins and oxidative stress-related proteins in the skeletal muscles and spinal cord of hSOD1G93A mice. Furthermore, we demonstrated that the HE regulated autophagy function and augmented neuromuscular junction in the muscle of hSOD1G93A mice. Based on these results, we propose that the HE formula may be a potential therapeutic strategy for multi-target treatment in complex and multifactorial pathological diseases.

The neuroprotective attribution of Ocimum basilicum: a review on the prevention and management of neurodegenerative disorders

Background

Bioactive principles from various natural resources including medicinal herbs have always played a crucial role in healthcare settings and increasingly became key players in drug discovery and development for many biopharmaceutical applications. Additionally, natural products (NPs) have immense arrangement of distinctive chemical structures with diverse functional groups that motivated numerous investigators including synthetic chemists to discover new therapeutic entities. Numerous pre-clinical investigations involving the animal models have evident the usefulness of these NPs against various human diseases including neurodegenerative disorders (NDs).

Main text

Ocimum basilicum Linn (O. basilicum L.), also known as sweet basil, is well practiced in traditional healthcare systems and has been used to treat various human illnesses, which include malaria, skin disease, diarrhea, bronchitis, dysentery, arthritis, eye diseases, and insect bites and emphasize the significance of the ethno-botanical approach as a potential source of novel drug leads With the growing interest in advanced techniques, herbal medicine and medicinal plants explorations are still considered to be a novel resource for new pharmacotherapeutic discovery and development. O. basilicum L and its bioactive principles including apigenin, eugenol, myretenal, β-sitosterol, luteolin, rosmarinic acid, carnosic acid, essential oil (EO)-rich phenolic compounds, and others like anthocyanins and flavones could be of therapeutic values in NDs by exhibiting their neuro-protective efficacy on various signaling pathways. The present comprehensive review collected various related information using the following searching engines such as PubMed, Science Direct, Google Scholar, etc. and focused mainly the English written documents. The search period comprised of last two decades until present.

Conclusion

Although these efficacious plant genera of prime importance and has potential medical and socioeconomic importance, yet the pivotal evidence for its neuroprotective potential in novel clinical trials remains lacking. However, with the available wealth of obtainable literature on this medicinal plant, which supports this review and concludes that O. basilicum L may function as a promising therapeutics for the treatment of NDs.

Flavonoids and Polyphenolic Compounds as Potential Talented Agents for the Treatment of Alzheimer's Disease and their Antioxidant Activities

Aging is a normal human cycle and the most important risk factor for neurodegenerative diseases. Alternations in cells due to aging contribute to loss of the nutrient-sensing, cell function, increased oxidative stress, loss of the homeostasis cell, genomic instability, the build-up of malfunctioning proteins, weakened cellular defenses, and a telomere split. Disturbance of these essential cellular processes in neuronal cells can lead to life threats including Alzheimer's disease (AD), Huntington's disease (HD), Lewy's disease, etc. The most common cause of death in the elderly population is AD. Specific therapeutic molecules were created to alleviate AD's social, economic, and health burden. In clinical practice, almost every chemical compound was found to relieve symptoms only in palliative treatment. The reason behind these perfect medicines is that the current medicines are not effective in targeting the cause of this disease. In this paper, we explored the potential role of flavonoid and polyphenolic compounds, which could be the most effective preventative anti-Alzheimer's strategy.

Clinical Features and Rules of Chinese Herbal Medicine in Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy Patients

OBJECTIVE

To analyse the clinical features of diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN) and employ data mining technology to explore the rules of Chinese herbal medicine (CHM) therapy.

METHODS

The clinical data of 216 patients with DPN and qi-yin deficiency syndrome were obtained, and the clinical features of the patients were assessed by cluster analysis. Relevant information was entered into the clinical diagnosis and treatment collection system, and data mining techniques were used to analyse the drug frequency, core CHM, CHM pair, and so on.

RESULTS

In this study, glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c) and homocysteine (HCY) were closely related to the pathogenesis of DPN. Overall, 162 patients had typical DPN syndrome characteristics, and we analysed 216 prescriptions, including 182 CHM. The frequencies of prescription of Astragalus membranaceus, Ligusticum wallichii, Poria cocos, and Radix Rehmanniae were greater than 45%. A Bayesian network analysis diagram showed that the 9 most common core CHM included Astragalus membranaceus, Ligusticum wallichii, Poria cocos, atractylodes rhizome, and Salvia miltiorrhiza Bge. According to the association rules of CHM, Radix Ophiopogon is used for Codonopsis pilosula; Astragalus membranaceus and atractylodes rhizome for Rehmannia are also frequently used. Astragalus membranaceus and Cinnamomi Ramulus or Ligusticum wallichii and Moutan bark were highly related to a decreased Michigan Diabetic Neuropathy Score.

CONCLUSION

HbA1c and HCY are related risk factors for DPN. Numbness is a typical syndrome characteristic. Astragalus membranaceus is a monarch CHM and is used most frequently.

Effect of Gymnema sylvestre Administration on Glycemic Control, Insulin Secretion, and Insulin Sensitivity in Patients with Impaired Glucose Tolerance

Gymnema sylvestre, a plant typical of India, has long been known for its hypoglycemic effects. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of G. sylvestre administration on glycemic control, insulin secretion, and insulin sensitivity in patients with impaired glucose tolerance (IGT). A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial was conducted in 30 patients with IGT. Fifteen patients randomly received G. sylvestre in doses of 300 mg b.i.d. and the other 15 received placebo in the same way. Before and after the intervention, anthropometric and metabolic measurements were taken, including 2-h oral glucose tolerance test (2-h OGTT), fasting plasma glucose, glycated hemoglobin A1c (A1C), and the lipid profile panel. Areas under the curve of glucose and insulin were calculated, as well as the insulinogenic, Stumvoll, and Matsuda indices. Wilcoxon, Mann-Whitney U, and chi-square or Fisher's exact tests were performed, and a P-value ≤.05 was considered statistically significant. There was a significant reduction in 2-h OGTT (9.1 ± 1.2 vs. 7.8 ± 1.7 mmol/L, P = .003), A1C (5.8 ± 0.3% vs. 5.4 ± 0.4%, P = .025), body weight, body mass index, and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels in the G. sylvestre group, with an increment in the Matsuda index (1.8 ± 0.8 vs. 2.4 ± 1.2, P = .008). At the end of the intervention, 46.7% of the patients obtained normal values in A1C. In conclusion, G. sylvestre administration in patients with IGT decreased 2-h OGTT and A1C, increasing insulin sensitivity. There were also improvements in anthropometric measures and the lipid profile.

Neuroprotective Strategies for Neurological Disorders by Natural Products: An update

Nature has bestowed mankind with surplus resources (natural products) on land and water. Natural products have a significant role in the prevention of disease and boosting of health in humans and animals. These natural products have been experimentally documented to possess various biological properties such as antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and anti-apoptotic activities. In vitro and in vivo studies have further established the usefulness of natural products in various preclinical models of neurodegenerative disorders. Natural products include phytoconstituents, like polyphenolic antioxidants, found in herbs, fruits, nuts, vegetables and also in marine and freshwater flora. These phytoconstituents may potentially suppress neurodegeneration and improve memory as well as cognitive functions of the brain. Also, they are known to play a pivotal role in the prevention and cure of different neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer's disease, epilepsy, Parkinson's disease and other neuronal disorders. The large-scale neuro-pharmacological activities of natural products have been documented due to the result of either the inhibition of inflammatory processes, or the up-regulation of various cell survival proteins or a combination of both. Due to the scarcity of human studies on neuroprotective effects of natural products, this review focuses on the various established activities of natural products in in vitro and in vivo preclinical models, and their potential neuro-therapeutic applications using the available knowledge in the literature.

Pharmacological and Toxicological Screening of Novel Benzimidazole-Morpholine Derivatives as Dual-Acting Inhibitors

The aim of this study was to investigate acetylcholinesterase (AChE), monoamine oxidase A (MAO-A), monoamine oxidase B (MAO-B), cyclooxygenase-1 (COX-1) and cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) enzyme inhibitory, and antimicrobial activities of a new series of 2-(4-substituted phenyl)-1-[2-(morpholin-4-yl)ethyl]-1H-benzimidazole derivatives, for their possible use as multi-action therapeutic agents. Target compounds (n = 15) were synthesized under microwave irradiation conditions in two steps, and their structures were elucidated by FT-IR, ¹H-NMR, ¹³C-NMR and high resolution mass spectroscopic analyses. Pharmacological screening studies revealed that two of the compounds (2b and 2j) have inhibitory potential on both COX-1 and COX-2 enzymes. In addition, cytotoxic and genotoxic properties of the compounds 2b, 2j and 2m were investigated via the well-known MTT and Ames tests, which revealed that the mentioned compounds are non-cytotoxic and non-genotoxic. As a concise conclusion, two novel compounds were characterized as potential candidates for treatment of frequently encountered inflammatory diseases.

Hypoglycemic and hypolipidemic effects of Caralluma tuberculata and its safety on liver and kidneys of diabetic rats / Diyabetik sıçanların karaciğer ve böbrekleri üzerinde Caralluma tuberculata’nın hipoglisemik ve hipolipidemik etkisi ve güvenliği

Objective: Caralluma tuberculata is a succulent plant that grows in some regions of Baluchestan province in Iran, and is widely used by natives as antidiabetic agent. This study evaluates the antidiabetic effects of aerial part suspension of Caralluma tuberculata (SCT) at two doses of 100 and 200 mg/kg and its safety on liver and kidneys of Streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetic rats.

Methods: Diabetes was rendered via single dose of STZ (60 mg/kg, injected intraperitoneally). Forty eight rats were classified into 6 groups as follow; (I): Normal control, (II): Normal + SCT (200 mg/kg), (III): STZ Diabetic, (IV): STZ + vehicle, (V): STZ + SCT (100 mg/kg), (VI) STZ + SCT (200 mg/kg). The effects of 45 days of treatment with the SCT on oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT), lipid profile, hematological and biochemical parameters evaluated.

Results: SCT treated groups exhibited a significant (p<0.05) improvement in abnormalities of OGTT, biochemical and hematological parameters compared with the diabetic control group. Furthermore, SCT at both doses, returned significantly (p<0.01) diabetes-induced changes in lipid profile except HDL-C levels that only, were significantly (p<0.05) increased at dose of 200 mg/kg. There was no significant difference in hematological, liver and kidney parameters between normal control and normal animals receiving SCT.

Conclusion: The present results revealed that Caralluma tuberculata could be beneficial for amending hyperglycemia, hyperlipidemia, and hematological changes induced by diabetes. It may also protect the liver and kidneys against complications caused by diabetes without any toxic effects.

The Roots of Atractylodes macrocephala Koidzumi Enhanced Glucose and Lipid Metabolism in C2C12 Myotubes via Mitochondrial Regulation

The root of Atractylodes macrocephala Koidzumi (Atractylodis Rhizoma Alba, ARA) is a Traditional Korean Medicine and has been commonly used for weight control. Mitochondrial dysfunction appears to be a key contributor to insulin resistance, and therefore mitochondrial targeting drugs represent an important potential strategy for the treatment of insulin resistance and obesity. In this study, the authors investigated the regulatory effects of ARA on mitochondrial function with respect to the stimulation of glucose and lipid metabolism in C2C12 myotubes. After differentiating C2C12 myotubes, cells were treated with or without different concentrations (0.2, 0.5, and 1.0 mg/mL) of ARA extract. ARA extract significantly increased the expression of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor coactivator 1 alpha (PGC1α) and the downregulations of its targets, nuclear respiratory factor-1 (NRF-1), transcription factor A (TFAM), and total ATP content in C2C12 myotubes. ARA extract also increased the expressions of PGC1α activator and of the metabolic sensors, AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK), and acetyl-CoA carboxylase and sirtuin (SIRT) 1. Furthermore, it significantly increased glucose uptake by enhancing glucose consumption and subsequently decreased FFA contents and increased carnitine palmitoyltransferase (CPT) 1b expression. Our study indicates that ARA has a potential for stimulating mitochondrial function and energy metabolism in muscle.

Chemical Compositions and Biological Activities of Essential Oils of Beilschmiedia glabra

This study was designed to examine the chemical compositions of essential oils from Beilschmiedia glabra and their antioxidant, antimicrobial, antityrosinase, acetylcholinesterase and anti-inflammatory activities. In total, 47 components were identified in the essential oils, which made up 86.8% and 89.7% of the leaf and bark oils, respectively. The leaf oil is composed mainly of β-eudesmol (15.4%), β-selinene (12.2%), caryophyllene oxide (8.1%) and γ-gurjunene (5.2%), while the bark oil contains high percentages of β-eudesmol (19.3%), β-selinene (16.9%), δ-cadinene (15.8%), germacrene D (9.8%) and β-caryophyllene (5.5%). Antioxidant activity showed that the leaf oil has the highest phenolic content at 233.4 mg GA/g, while the bark oil showed potent activity in the β-carotene/linoleic acid bleaching assay. However, both oils showed weak activity in the DPPH and ABTS assays. For antimicrobial activity, the leaf and bark oils displayed strong activity against Candida glabrata and Saccharomyces cerevisiae with MIC values of 31.3 and 62.5 μg/mL, respectively. Percentage inhibitions against tyrosinase (leaf 73.7%; bark 76.0%) and acetylcholinesterase (leaf 48.1%; bark 45.2%) were tested at a concentration of 1 mg/mL, while anti-inflammatory activity (leaf 59.7%; bark 48.9%) was evaluated at a concentration of 100 μM. Evaluation of these assays indicated moderate levels of activity.

Triterpenoids from Gymnema sylvestre and their pharmacological activities

Because plants are estimated to produce over 200,000 metabolites, research into new natural substances that can be used in the pharmaceutical, agrochemical and agro-industrial production of drugs, biopesticides and food additives has grown in recent years. The global market for plant-derived drugs over the last decade has been estimated to be approximately 30.69 billion USD. A relevant specific example of a plant that is very interesting for its numerous pharmacological properties, which include antidiabetic, anticarcinogenic, and neuroprotective effects is Gymnema sylvestre, used as a medicinal plant in Asia for thousands of years. Its properties are attributed to triterpenoidic saponins. In light of the considerable interest generated in the chemistry and pharmacological properties of G. sylvestre triterpenes and their analogues, we have undertaken this review in an effort to summarise the available literature on these promising bioactive natural products. The review will detail studies on the isolation, chemistry and bioactivity of the triterpenoids, which are presented in the tables. In particular the triterpenoids oxidised at C-23; their isolation, distribution in different parts of the plant, and their NMR spectral data; their names and physico-chemical characterisation; and the biological properties associated with these compounds, with a focus on their potential chemotherapeutic applications.

A randomized pilot study of atractylenolide I on gastric cancer cachexia patients

We determined the therapeutic efficacy of atractylenolide I (ATR), extracted from largehead atractylodes rhizome, in managing gastric cancer cachexia (GCC), and interpreted its probable pharmacological mechanism via investigating tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α), interleukin-1 (IL-1), interleukin-6 (IL-6) and proteolysis-inducing factor (PIF). This was a randomized but not-blinded pilot. The study group (n = 11) received 1.32 g per day of atractylenolide I (ATR) and the control group (n = 11) received 3.6 g per day of fish-oil-enriched nutritional supplementation (FOE) for 7 weeks. Conservative therapy was similar in both groups. Clinical [appetite, body weight, mid-arm muscle circumference (MAMC), Karnofsky performance status (KPS) status], biomarker (TNF-α, IL-1, IL-6 and PIF) were evaluated in the basal state, at the third and seventh weeks. To analyze changes of cytokines, an immumohistochemistry technique was adopted. Base line characteristics were similar in both groups. Effects on MAMC and body weight increase, TNF-α increase and IL-1 decreases of serum level were significant in both groups (P < 0.05). ATR was significantly more effective than FOE in improving appetite and KPS status, and decreasing PIF positive rate (P < 0.05). Slight nausea (3/11) and dry mouth (1/11) were shown in intervention groups but did not interrupt treatment. These preliminary findings suggest that ATR might be beneficial in alleviating symptoms, in modulating cytokine and in inhibiting PIF proteolysis of gastric cancer cachexia. Further research using a randomized controlled design is necessary to confirm these pilot study findings.

In vitro antitrypanosomal activity of plant terpenes against Trypanosoma brucei

During the course of screening to discover antitrypanosomal compounds, 24 known plant terpenes (6 sesquiterpenes, 14 sesquiterpene lactones and 4 diterpenes) were evaluated for in vitro antitrypanosomal activity against Trypanosoma brucei brucei. Among them, 22 terpenes exhibited antitrypanosomal activity. In particular, α-eudesmol, hinesol, nardosinone and 4-peroxy-1,2,4,5-tetrahydro-α-santonin all exhibited selective and potent antitrypanosomal activities in vitro. Detailed here in an in vitro antitrypanosomal properties and cytotoxicities of the 24 terpenes compared with two therapeutic antitrypanosomal drugs (eflornithine and suramin). This finding represents the first report of promising trypanocidal activity of these terpenes. Present results also provide some valuable insight with regard to structure-activity relationships and the possible mode of action of the compounds.

Effects of Atractylodes macrocephala Koidzumi rhizome on 3T3-L1 adipogenesis and an animal model of obesity

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Atractylodes macrocephala Koidzumi (AMK) is an herbal medicine traditionally used for treatment of abdominal pain, gastrointestinal disease, obesity, and related complications.

AIM OF THE STUDY

We investigated the effects and molecular mechanism of AMK rhizome water extract on 3T3-L1 adipogenesis and an animal model of obesity.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

To study the effect of AMK on adipogenesis in vitro, differentiating 3T3-L1 cells were treated every two days with AMK at various concentrations (1-25μg/ml) for eight days. Oil Red O staining was performed to determine the lipid accumulation in 3T3-L1 cells. To elucidate the inhibitory mechanism of AMK on adipogenesis, phosphorylation levels of Akt and expression of perilipin, were analyzed by Western blotting. AMK was administered orally to high fat diet (HFD)-induced obese rats to confirm its effect in vivo.

RESULTS

AMK inhibited 3T3-L1 adipocyte differentiation in a dose-dependent manner without cellular toxicity. Phospho-Akt expression was highly decreased by AMK treatment, whereas there was no significant change in perilipin expression. AMK administration significantly reduced the body weight of rats fed a HFD. Plasma triglyceride levels were significantly lower in the AMK-treated HFD group than those in the HFD control group or normal diet (ND) group, although serum total, HDL- and LDL-cholesterol levels did not differ between the groups.

CONCLUSION

These results demonstrate an inhibitory effect of AMK on adipogenesis through reduction of an adipogenic factor, phospho-Akt. AMK had a beneficial effect, reducing body weight gain in a HFD-induced animal model of obesity.

Traditional herbal remedies that influence cell adhesion molecule activity

Many traditional medicines have demonstrated immune activity, however, research has largely neglected their effects on cell adhesion molecules (CAMs). This review reports on extracts from 37 medicinal plant species, similar to or replicating traditional preparations, that up- or downregulate either gene or protein activity of CAMs. The majority of the investigations were in vitro, primarily of the immunoglobulin superfamily of CAMs, specifically intercellular cell adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1) and vascular cell adhesion molecule-1 (VCAM-1) and secondarily on the integrin (CD11b or MAC-1) and selectin (E-selectin and P-selectin) families of CAMs. The following plant species have demonstrated modulation of multiple CAMs: Artemisia asiatica, Boswellia serrata, Canscora decussata, Cinnamomum povectum, Dehaasia incrassate, Ganoderma lucidum, Ginkgo biloba, Hypericum perforatum, Juglans regia, Lycopus lucidus, Panax notoginseng, Rheum undulatum, Salvia miltiorrhiza. Many other species have documented activity on one CAM. Currently there are limited in vivo/ex vivo investigations, including a clinical trial on Mahonia aquifolium. Although further evidence is needed, the data suggest that the reviewed botanical medicines may have the potential to provide therapeutic potential in disease processes involving CAMs. Additionally, the reported success of many of these plant extracts by traditional cultures and modern phytotherapists may involve the modulation of CAMs.

Effects of Sesquiterpenes Isolated From Largehead Atractylodes Rhizome on Growth, Migration, and Differentiation of B16 Melanoma Cells

The aims of this study were to isolate sesquiterpene compounds from the largehead atractylodes rhizome (LAR) and to investigate their effects on B16 cancer cells. A total of 8 sesquiterpenes from LAR were identified, of which eudesm-4 (15), 7-diene-9α, 11-diol (7) was isolated for the first time. All 8 compounds inhibited growth of B16 cells, and atractylenolide I (AT-I), atractylenolide II (AT-II), and atractylenolactam (ATR) were the most potent, with IC50 values of 76.46, 84.02, and 54.88 μΜ, respectively. Monomer lactone or lactam structures in the 8 compounds appeared to be critical for their antiproliferative activities. In addition, AT-I, AT-II, and ATR could induce cell differentiation and inhibit cell migration. Western blot analysis indicated that 2 of the compounds, AT-I and AT-II, could inactivate ERK, where all 3 inhibited AKT activation, suggesting that Ras/ERK and PI3K/AKT signaling pathways are involved in the action mechanisms of the LAR sesquiterpene compounds.

Antioxidant properties and principal phenolic phytochemicals of Indian medicinal plants from Asclepiadoideae and Periplocoideae

The subfamily Asclepiadoideae (Apocynaceae) and the closely-related Periplocoideae are sources of many indigenous Indian medicinal plants. We surveyed antioxidant properties and total phenolic and flavonoid contents of 15 samples, representing 12 Indian medicinal plant species from these subfamilies. Total antioxidant assay was performed using the 2,2-azinobis-3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid and ferric-reducing antioxidant power methods. Total phenolic and flavonoid contents were measured using colourimetric methods. Principal phenolic compounds were detected by liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS). The highest antioxidant capacity and high levels of total phenolics and flavonoids were found in the leaves of Decalepis hamiltonii. The stems of Sarcostemma brevistigma exhibited the highest xanthine oxidase (XO) inhibitory activity. The roots of Hemidesmus indicus showed the highest OH(-) radical scavenging activity. In general, Periplocoideae members exhibited higher antioxidant activity than Asclepiadoideae members. The highly significant and positive correlations (R > 0.914) between total antioxidant capacity parameters and total phenolic content indicated that the phenolic compounds contributed significantly to the antioxidant activity of the tested plant samples. The principal phenolic phytochemicals from these plants were identified by LC-MS, including flavonoids, phenolic acids and phenolic terpenoids. Chlorogenic acid and rutin were detected in almost all of the plant samples. The LC-MS analysis provided full fingerprints of the principal phenolic compounds in the medicinal plants from these two subfamilies, which are useful for their authentication and quality evaluation.

A novel dihydroxy gymnemic triacetate isolated from Gymnema sylvestre possessing normoglycemic and hypolipidemic activity on STZ-induced diabetic rats

AIM OF THE STUDY

Gymnema sylvestre (Asclepiadaceae) is emerging as a potential treatment for the management of diabetes. The leaves are used in herbal medicine preparations. The present study was carried out to isolate and identify the putative antidiabetic compound based on bioassay-guided fractionation.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

An active compound dihydroxy gymnemic triacetate has been isolated from Gymnema sylvestre acetone extract and its optimum dose has been determined and patented. An optimum dose of dihydroxy gymnemic triacetate (20mg/kg body weight) was orally administered for 45 days to streptozotocin diabetic rats for the assessment of plasma glucose, insulin, glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c), tissue glycogen, lipid parameters such as triglycerides, total cholesterol, LDL-cholesterol, HDL-cholesterol and activities of hepatic marker enzymes, such as aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), alkaline phosphatase (ALP) and acid phosphatase (ACP) in normal and streptozotocin diabetic rats.

RESULTS

Dihydroxy gymnemic triacetate at 20mg dose produced significant effects on all biochemical parameters studied compared to diabetic control group.

CONCLUSIONS

These results indicate that dihydroxy gymnemic triacetate, the compound from Gymnema sylvestre, possessed hypoglycemic and hypolipidemic activity in long-term treatment and hence it could be used as a drug for treating diabetes.

The influence of traditional herbal formulas on cytokine activity

Many of the botanical "immunomodulators", a class of herbal medicines widely recognized in traditional medical systems such as Chinese Medicine (TCM) and Ayurvedic Medicine, alter immune function and may offer clinically relevant therapeutics or leads to therapeutics. Many of these traditional remedies are prepared from combinations of medicinal plants which may influence numerous molecular pathways. These effects may differ from the sum of effects from the individual plants and therefore, research demonstrating the effects of the formula is crucial for insights into the effects of traditional remedies. In this review we surveyed the primary literature for research that focused on combinations of medicinal plants and effects on cytokine activity. The results demonstrate that many extracts of herb mixtures have effects on at least one cytokine. The most commonly studies cytokines were IL-4, IL-6, IL-10, TNF and IFN-γ. The majority of the formulas researched derived from TCM. The following formulas had activity on at least three cytokines; Chizukit N, CKBM, Daeganghwal-tang, Food Allergy Formula, Gamcho-Sasim-Tang, Hachimi-jio-gan, Herbkines, Hochuekki, Immune System Formula, Jeo-Dang-Tang, Juzen-taiho-to, Kakkon-to, Kan jang, Mao-Bushi-Saishin-to, MSSM-002, Ninjin-youei-to, PG201, Protec, Qing-huo-bai-du-yin, Qingfu Guanjieshu, Sambucol Active Defense, Seng-fu-tang, Shin-Xiao-Xiang, Tien Hsien, Thuja formula, Unkei-to, Vigconic, Wheeze-relief-formula, Xia-Bai-San, Yangyuk-Sanhwa-Tang, Yi-fey Ruenn-hou, and Yuldahansotang. Of the western based combinations, formulas with Echinacea spp. were common and showed multiple activities. Numerous formulas demonstrated activity on both gene and protein expression. The research demonstrates that the reviewed botanical formulas modulate cytokine activity, although the bulk of the research is in vitro. Therapeutic success using these formulas may be partially due to their effects on cytokines. Further study of phytotherapy on cytokine related diseases/syndromes is necessary.

Telephone-Based Diet and Exercise Coaching and a Weight-Loss Supplement Result in Weight and Fat Loss in 120 Men and Women

Purpose.

Determine the effects of telephone-based coaching and a weight-loss supplement on the weight and body fat (BF) of overweight adults.

Design.

Randomized, placebo-controlled experiment with assessments at baseline, 2 months, and 4 months.

Setting.

Community.

Subjects.

Sixty overweight or obese men and 60 overweight or obese women, 25 to 60 years old.

Intervention.

Eleven 30-minute telephone coaching sessions were spaced throughout the study; the initial conversation lasted 60 to 90 minutes. Supplement or placebo capsules were taken daily over the 17 weeks.

Measures.

Weight was measured using an electronic scale, and BF was assessed using dual energy x-ray absorptiometry.

Results.

Subjects taking the placebo lost 1.8 + 3.3 kg of weight and 0.7 + 2.2 kg of BF, whereas supplement users lost more: 3.1 + 3.7 kg of weight (F = 4.1, P = .045) and 1.7 + 2.6 kg of BF (F = 4.4, p = .039). Participants receiving no coaching lost 1.8 + 3.3 kg of weight and 0.7 + 2.2 kg of BF, whereas adults receiving coaching lost more: 3.2 + 3.6 kg of weight (F = 4.8, p = .032) and 1.6 + 2.5 kg of BF (F = 4.2, p = .044). Adults receiving both the supplement and coaching had the greatest losses of weight and BF, suggesting an additive effect (F = 3.2, p = .026; F = 2.9, p = .039, respectively).

Conclusions.

Both treatments, coaching and the supplement, viewed separately and in combination, worked to help subjects lose weight and BF. Adults can be educated and motivated via telephone to change behaviors leading to weight loss, and a weight-loss supplement can be included to increase success.

NO-donating NSAIDs and cancer: an overview with a note on whether NO is required for their action

Nitric oxide-donating nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NO-NSAIDs) consist of a conventional NSAID to which an NO-releasing moiety is attached covalently, often via a spacer molecule. NO-NSAIDs represent an emerging class of compounds with chemopreventive properties against a variety of cancers, demonstrated in preclinical models including cell culture systems and animal tumor models; their potential efficacy in humans has not been assessed. Their mechanism of action appears complex and involves the generation of reactive oxygen species, suppression of microsatellite instability in mismatch repair-deficient cells, and modulation of several signaling cascades that culminate in inhibited cell renewal and enhanced apoptosis. NO, long appreciated to be able to protect from and also promote cancer, is released form NO-NSAIDs and constitutes their defining property. Existing data are consistent with the notion that NO may mediate their anticancer effect. In addition there is evidence that long-term administration of NO-donating compounds is not associated with increased incidence of colon cancer. Whether NO release is required for the anticancer effect of NO-NSAIDs has being questioned by recent data indicating that, at least in the case of NO-aspirin, the NO-releasing moiety may serve as a leaving group while the spacer actually being the moiety responsible for its pharmacological action. Regardless of mechanistic issues, these compounds promise to contribute to the control of cancer.

Gymnemic acid interacts with mammalian glycerol-3-phosphate dehydrogenase

In a previous study, we found interaction of gymnemic acid (GA) with glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase (GAPDH), a key enzyme in glycolysis. We now examined interaction of GA with glycolytic and related enzymes. We found that (1) GA induced a band smearing of glycerol-3-phosphate dehydrogenase (G3PDH) as well as that of GAPDH in SDS-PAGE, (2) GA diminished the G3PDH band detected by an antibody to phosphoserine, and (3) GA inhibited the G3PDH activity. The GA-induced smearing of the G3PDH band was diminished by prior incubation of GA with gamma-cyclodextrin. GA gave no effects on the electrophoretic and phosphoserine bands of other glycolytic enzymes. NAD and NADH diminished the GA-induced smearing of the G3PDH and GAPDH bands in different concentration-dependent manner. Pretreatment of G3PDH with heated SDS-containing buffer or pretreatment with hydroxylamine diminished the GA-induced smearing of G3PDH. Deacylation of GA by alkaline hydrolysis diminished the smearing of G3PDH band, thereby indicating that the acyl moieties of GA were necessary for the GA-induced smearing of G3PDH. These results indicated the interaction of GA with G3PDH, an enzyme involved in glycerol metabolism. These studies suggest that GA may have some pharmacological activities including antidiabetic activity and lipid lowering effects via interaction with GAPDH and G3PDH.