Pharmaceutical prospects of phytoestrogens

Cirsium Setidens Water Extracts Containing Linarin Block Estrogen Deprivation-Induced Bone Loss in Mice

Osteoporosis is evident in postmenopausal women and is an osteolytic disease characterized by bone loss that further increases the susceptibility to bone fractures and frailty. The use of complementary therapies to alleviate postmenopausal osteoporosis is fairly widespread among women. Edible Cirsium setidens contains various polyphenols of linarin, pectolinarin, and apigenin with antioxidant and hepatoprotective effects. This study aimed to determine whether Cirsium setidens water extracts (CSEs), the component linarin, and its aglycone acacetin blocked ovariectomy (OVX)-induced bone loss. This study employed OVX C57BL/6 female mice as a model for postmenopausal osteoporosis. CSEs, acacetin, or linarin was orally administrated to OVX mice at a dose of 20 mg/kg for 8 weeks. Surgical estrogen loss in mice for 8 weeks reduced bone mineral density (BMD) of mouse femur and serum 17β-estradiol level and enhanced the serum receptor activator of NF-κB ligand/osteoprotegerin ratio with uterine atrophy. CSEs and linarin reversed such adverse effects and enhanced femoral BMD in OVX mice. Oral administration of CSEs and linarin attenuated tartrate-resistant acid phosphate activity and the induction of αvβ3 integrins and proton suppliers in resorption lacunae in femoral bone tissue of OVX mice. In addition, CSEs and linarin curtailed the bone levels of cathepsin K and matrix metalloproteinase-9 responsible for osteoclastic bone resorption. On the other hand, CSEs and linarin enhanced the formation of trabecular bones in estrogen-deficient femur with increased induction of osteocalcin and osteopontin. Further, treatment with CSEs and linarin enhanced the collagen formation-responsive propeptide levels in the circulation along with the increase in the tissue non-specific alkaline phosphatase level in bone exposed to OVX. Supplementing CSEs, acacetin, or linarin to OVX mice elevated the formation of collagen fibers in OVX trabecular bone, evidenced using Picrosirius red staining. Accordingly, CSEs and linarin were effective in retarding osteoclastic bone resorption and promoting osteoblastic bone matrix mineralization under OVX conditions. Therefore, linarin, which is abundant in CSEs, may be a natural compound for targeting postmenopausal osteoporosis and pathological osteoresorptive disorders.

Neuroprotective effect of Biochanin a against Bisphenol A-induced prenatal neurotoxicity in zebrafish by modulating oxidative stress and locomotory defects

Exogenous toxicants cause oxidative stress and damage to brain cells, resulting in inflammation. Neuroinflammation is important in the pathobiology of various neurological illnesses, including Alzheimer's disease (AD). In this context, Bisphenol A (BPA), a common toxin, causes oxidative damage and has been linked to neurological problems. An O-methylated isoflavone known as Biochanin A (5,7-dihydroxy-4'-methoxy-isoflavone, BCA) is considered to be a phytoestrogen, which is abundant in some legume plants and soy which have preventive effects against cancer, osteoporosis, menopausal symptoms and oxidative stress. However, the mechanism by which BCA protected the prenatal neurological stress are not known. So that, in this study we investigated the BCA neuroprotective effect against BPA-induced neuroinflammation in zebrafish embryo models. For this study, fertilized zebrafish embryos are exposed to BPA (1 µM) with or without BCA. Our finding suggested that BCA co-exposure prevented the depletion of antioxidant defense enzymes by BPA and reduced the production of intracellular ROS production, superoxide anion (O₂^-), lipid peroxidation (LPO), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) and nitric oxide (NO) levels in the head that aided in safeguarding neuronal development. Baseline locomotion was rendered and a total distance was calculated to assess the motor function. Exposure to BCA increased acetylcholinestrase (AChE) and improved motor neuron functions. It also reduced the pro-inflammatory response expression and prevented neuroinflammation. Our study suggests that BCA has a positive role in the attenuation or amelioration of neuronal oxidative damage and locomotory behaviour induced by BPA.

Estrogens and phytoestrogens in body functions

Estrogens are the hormones of reproduction in women as well as of many other important functions in the male and female body. They undergo significant changes in the different phases of life, e.g. during puberty, pregnancy or at menopause/andropause. Phytoestrogens are natural non-steroidal phenolic plant compounds that can mimic the activity of estrogens and their beneficial effects in women and in men. This narrative review summarizes the literature on the physiological role of estrogens and the several potential health benefits of phytoestrogens, with particular attention given to the possible role of phytoestrogens in aging.

Bioactivity of Dietary Polyphenols: The Role in LDL-C Lowering

Cardiovascular diseases are the leading causes of the death around the world. An elevation of the low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) level is one of the most important risk factors for cardiovascular diseases. To achieve optimal plasma LDL-C levels, clinal therapies were investigated which targeted different metabolism pathways. However, some therapies also caused various adverse effects. Thus, there is a need for new treatment options and/or combination therapies to inhibit the LDL-C level. Dietary polyphenols have received much attention in the prevention of cardiovascular diseases due to their potential LDL-C lowering effects. However, the effectiveness and potential mechanisms of polyphenols in lowering LDL-C is not comprehensively summarized. This review focused on dietary polyphenols that could reduce LDL-C and their mechanisms of action. This review also discussed the limitations and suggestions regarding previous studies.

Estrogenic Effect of Scoparia dulcis (Linn) Extract in Mice Uterus and In Silico Molecular Docking Studies of Certain Compounds with Human Estrogen Receptors

Background:

Scoparia dulcis Linn. is reported to be used by women of Assam and Arunachal Pradesh in northeast India for treating menstrual disorders. Scoparia dulcis contains compounds that bind with estrogen receptors (ERα and ERβ) evidenced by increased PCNA in endometrial epithelium.

Methods:

Crude extract was orally administered at the dose of 500 mg/kg body weight/day to the female mice (60–70 days old) in five different groups. Each group containing six females included: (I) cyclic control, (II) cyclic extract treated, (III) Ovariectomized (OVX)-vehicle treated (Control), (IV) OVX-E2 treated (V) OVX- extract treated. Extract was administered for eight days to the cyclic groups and three days to the OVX groups. PCNA was detected immunohistochemically in uterine tissues and signals were analyzed by Image J software (NIH, USA). Compounds were separated by GC-MS and identified using NIST. In silico molecular docking studies was performed with human estrogen receptors (ERα and ERβ). Molecular dynamics (MD) simulations of the best interacting compound was done using gromacs.

Results:

The results showed cell proliferation in the uterine endometrium evidenced by PCNA. Two phytocompounds, Octadecanoic acid and methyl stearate showed binding affinity with ERα and ERβ.

Conclusion:

Scoparia dulcis contains compounds having binding affinity with ERα and ERβ. The present study is the first report on compounds from Scoparia dulcis showing binding affinity with human estrogen receptors which may have biological effect on female reproduction.

Analysis of genetic diversity and population structure in Asparagus species using SSR markers

BACKGROUND

Various Asparagus species constitute the significant vegetable and medicinal genetic resource throughout the world. Asparagus species serve as important commodity of food and pharmaceutical industries in India. A diverse collection of Asparagus species from different localities of Northwest India was investigated for its genetic diversity using simple sequence repeat (SSR) markers.

RESULTS

Polymorphic SSR markers revealed high genetic diversity. Primer SSR-15 amplified maximum of 8 fragments while 3 primers, namely, SSR-43, SSR-63, and AGA1 amplified minimum of 3 fragments. Collectively, 122 alleles were amplified in a range between 3 and 8 with an average of 5 alleles per marker. The size of the amplified alleles ranged between 90 and 680 base pairs. Polymorphism information content (PIC) value varied from a highest value of 0.499 in primer AGA1 to a lowest value of 0.231 in primer SSR-63 with a mean value of 0.376 showing considerable SSR polymorphism. Dendrogram developed on the basis of Jaccard's similarity coefficient and neighbor-joining tree segregated all the studied Asparagus species into two discrete groups. Structure analysis based on Bayesian clustering allocated different accessions to two independent clusters and exhibited low level of individual admixture.

CONCLUSIONS

The genetic diversity analysis showed a conservative genetic background for maximum species of asparagus. Only Accessions of Asparagus adscendens were split into two diverse clusters suggesting a wide genetic base of this species as compared to other species. Overall genetic diversity was high, and this germplasm of Asparagus can be used in future improvement programs. The findings of current research on Asparagus germplasm can make a momentous contribution to initiatives of interbreeding, conservation, and improvement of Asparagus in future.

The Dietary Effect of Vitex agnus-castus Hydroalcoholic Extract on Growth Performance, Blood Biochemical Parameters, Carcass Quality, Sex Ratio and Gonad Histology in Zebrafish (Danio rerio)

The main purpose of this study was to consider the impact of Vitex agnus-castus hydroalcoholic extract, containing phytoestrogenic compounds on growth indices, sex ratio and histology of gonads of female Zebrafish. Fish larvae (4-day-old after hatching) were nourished with investigational diets (0 (control group T0), 5 g (T1), 10 g (T2) and 15 g (T3) kg−1 food) from first active feeding for 90 days. The results showed that Condition Factor (CF), Food Conversion Rate (FCR), Body Weight Gain (BWG), and Specific Growth Rate (SGR) were affected meaningfully by hydroalcoholic extract of Vitex agnus-castus (p < 0.05). These factors were significantly higher in compare to T3 treatment (p < 0.05). With increasing concentration of the extract in the diet, the ratio of female to male increased Treatment of T3 resulted in 87.23% feminization. Overall, this study suggests the use of T3 treatment achieves the best reproduction performance and a higher percentage of females in zebrafish as a model for aquaculture species. According to the results, the lowest levels of glucose and cholesterol were observed in T3 treatment and showed a significant changes with the control and treatments (p < 0.05).

Dual Function of a Novel Bacterium, Slackia sp. D-G6: Detoxifying Deoxynivalenol and Producing the Natural Estrogen Analogue, Equol

Deoxynivalenol (DON) is a highly abundant mycotoxin that exerts many adverse effects on humans and animals. Much effort has been made to control DON in the past, and bio-transformation has emerged as the most promising method. However, useful and effective application of bacterial bio-transformation for the purpose of inhibiting DON remains urgently needed. The current study isolated a novel DON detoxifying bacterium, Slackia sp. D-G6 (D-G6), from chicken intestines. D-G6 is a Gram-positive, non-sporulating bacterium, which ranges in size from 0.2–0.4 μm × 0.6–1.0 μm. D-G6 de-epoxidizes DON into a non-toxic form called DOM-1. Optimum conditions required for degradation of DON are 37–47 °C and a pH of 6–10 in WCA medium containing 50% chicken intestinal extract. Besides DON detoxification, D-G6 also produces equol (EQL) from daidzein (DZN), which shows high estrogenic activity, and prevents estrogen-dependent and age-related diseases effectively. Furthermore, the genome of D-G6 was sequenced and characterized. Thirteen genes that show potential for DON de-epoxidation were identified via comparative genomics. In conclusion, a novel bacterium that exhibits the dual function of detoxifying DON and producing the beneficial natural estrogen analogue, EQL, was identified.

Assessment of the Aromatase Inhibitory Activity of Ma-Huang-Tang (MHT) and Its Active Compounds

Aromatase, a cytochrome P450 enzyme that converts androgens into estrogens, is an important drug target for hormone-dependent diseases. The purpose of this study was to elucidate the aromatase inhibitory effects of Ma-Huang-Tang (MHT), a traditional Korean herbal medicine prescription, and to identify its active ingredients. In this study, the inhibitory effect of MHT on aromatase activity was observed using dibenzylfluorescein (DBF) and KGN cells, and the dose-dependent effect of MHT was verified (IC₅₀ values of 251 μg/mL and 246 μg/mL as determined by the two methods, respectively). Furthermore, among the six herbal medicines that constitute MHT, Ephedrae Herba, Cinnamomi Ramulus, and Glycyrrhizae Radix et Rhizoma showed the most potent inhibition of aromatase activity. Furthermore, upon identification of the active MHT compounds, three markers from Glycyrrhizae Radix et Rhizoma, liquiritin (5), liquiritin apioside (6), and liquiritigenin (7), were verified (IC₅₀ values of 530 μM, 508 μM, and 1.611 mM and 499 μM, 522 μM, and 1.41 mM as determined by the two methods, respectively). In addition, their contents were confirmed to be 15.58, 19.80, and 2.22 mg/g, respectively, by HPLC/DAD analysis. These results indicate that the aromatase inhibitory effect of MHT results from the synergistic action of its active components and that MHT has potential as a preventive agent against aromatase activity.

Vanadium elicitation of Trifolium pratense L. cell culture and possible pathways of produced isoflavones transport across the plasma membrane

Vanadium compounds increased the content and release of distinct isoflavones in a Trifolium pratense suspension culture. Regarding transport-mechanism inhibitors, the process was mostly facilitated by ABC proteins and vesicular transport. The transport of isoflavones and other secondary metabolites is an important part of metabolism within plants and cultures in vitro regarding their role in defence against various abiotic and biotic stressors. This research focuses on the way how to increase production and exudation of isoflavones by application of chemical elicitor and the basic identification of their transport mechanisms across cell membranes. The release of five isoflavones (genistin, genistein, biochanin A, daidzein, and formononetin) into a nutrient medium was determined in a Trifolium pratense var. DO-8 suspension culture after two vanadium compound treatments and cultivation for 24 and 48 h. The NH₄VO₃ solution caused a higher concentration of isoflavones in the medium after 24 h. This increased content of secondary metabolites was subsequently suppressed by distinct transport-mechanism inhibitors. The transport of isoflavones in T. pratense was mostly affected by ABC inhibitors from the multidrug-resistance-associated protein subfamily, but the genistein concentration in the medium was lower after treatment with multidrug-resistance protein subfamily inhibitors. Brefeldin A, which blocks vesicular transport, also decreased the concentration of some isoflavones in the nutrient medium.

Scientific Papers and Patents on Substances with Unproven Effects. Part 2

Several examples are discussed in this review, where substances without proven effects were proposed for practical use within the scope of evidence-based medicines. The following is discussed here: generalizations of the hormesis concept and its use in support of homeopathy; phytoestrogens and soy products potentially having feminizing effects; glycosaminoglycans for the treatment of osteoarthritis and possibilities of their replacement by diet modifications; flavonoids recommended for the treatment of chronic venous insufficiency and varicose veins; acetylcysteine as a mucolytic agent and its questionable efficiency especially by an oral intake; stem cells and cell therapies. In conclusion, placebo therapies can be beneficial and ethically justifiable but it is not a sufficient reason to publish biased information. Importantly, placebo must be devoid of adverse effects, otherwise, it is named pseudo-placebo. Therapeutic methods with unproven effects should be tested in high-quality research shielded from the funding bias. Some issues discussed in this review are not entirely clear, and the arguments provided here can initiate a constructive discussion.

The Prevention and Therapy of Osteoporosis: A Review on Emerging Trends from Hormonal Therapy to Synthetic Drugs to Plant-Based Bioactives

Osteoporosis is one of the major health problems worldwide. It is characterized by increased bone fragility and loss of bone matter due to the action of osteoclast cells, which are associated with modified hormone levels and factors such as aging. Bisphosphonates are the primary treatment for osteoporosis. Apart from bisphosphonates, hormone therapy, calcitonin treatment, selective estrogen receptor modulators (SERMs), and strontium ranelate (SR) are some of the other treatments available for osteoporosis. However, these treatments have some side effects, such as oily skin, fluid retention, nausea, long-term toxicity, and even prostate cancer in males, and thus natural therapies that incur fewer side effects are sought. Phytochemicals, antioxidants, and other plant-based bioactives are important in the human diet. They are abundant in fruits and help against various chronic diseases, including bone disorders. Other providers of these important compounds are the medicinal plant parts. In this article, we highlight the various species of plants and herbs that are useful for the treatment of osteoporosis. The prospect of using these plant-based bioactives in amelioration of osteoporosis as an alternative to hormonal and synthetic drug-based therapy is also discussed.

Understanding the functional role of genistein in the bone differentiation in mouse osteoblastic cell line MC3T3-E1 by RNA-seq analysis

Genistein, a phyto-estrogen, can potentially replace endogenous estrogens in postmenopausal women, but the underlying molecular mechanisms remain incompletely understood. To obtain insight into the effect of genistein on bone differentiation, RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) analysis was used to detect differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in genistein-treated vs. untreated MC3T3-E1 mouse osteoblastic cells. Osteoblastic cell differentiation was monitored by measuring osteoblast differentiation factors (ALP production, bone mineralization, and expression of osteoblast differentiation markers). From RNA-seq analysis, a total of 132 DEGs (including 52 up-regulated and 80 down-regulated genes) were identified in genistein-treated cells (FDR q-value < 0.05 and fold change > 1.5). KEGG pathway and Gene Ontology (GO) enrichment analyses were performed to estimate the biological functions of DEGs and demonstrated that these DEGs were highly enriched in functions related to chemotactic cytokines. The functional relevance of DEGs to genistein-induced osteoblastic cell differentiation was further evaluated by siRNA-mediated knockdown in MC3T3-E1 cells. These siRNA knockdown experiments (of the DEGs validated by real-time qPCR) demonstrated that two up-regulated genes (Ereg and Efcab2) enhance osteoblastic cell differentiation, while three down-regulated genes (Hrc, Gli, and Ifitm5) suppress the differentiation. These results imply their major functional roles in bone differentiation regulated by genistein.

Notoginsenoside R1 prevents H9c2 cardiomyocytes apoptosis against hypoxia/reoxygenation via the ERs/PI3K/Akt pathway

Notoginsenoside R₁ (NGR₁) is separate from Panax notoginsenosides (PNS), and plays a role similar to phytoestrogen in preventing and treating cardiovascular diseases. However, the protective mechanism of NGR₁ in the myocardial ischemia/reperfusion injury via the estrogen receptor (ER) pathway remains unclear, which hinder its application. This study aimed to study the preventive mechanisms of NGR₁ in the apoptosis of H9c2 cardiomyocytes after hypoxia/reoxygenation (H/R). NGR₁ did not affect the expression of ERα and ERβ proteins in normal H9c2 cardiomyocytes. However, NGR₁ could upregulate the ERα and G protein-coupled receptor 30 (GPR30) proteins in H9c2 cardiomyocytes after H/R without affecting ERβ levels. Moreover, it significantly affected the expression levels of PI3K and its downstream apoptosis proteins such as Bcl-2 Associated X Protein (Bax), B cell lymphoma/lewkmia-2 (Bcl-2), caspase-3, and so forth. Whereas, after adding the PI3K protein antagonist, the modulatory expression levels of PI3K and its downstream apoptosis proteins were remarkably abolished. After adding ERα and GPR30 antagonists, NGR₁ had no significant effect on the expression of PI3K and its downstream Akt protein in the model group. The data of flow cytometry showed that after adding the ERα, GPR30 and PI3K antagonists, the apoptotic rate of cardiomyocytes had no significant changes compared with the model group. This study demonstrated that NGR₁ protected H9c2 cardiomyocytes from the injury after H/R by affecting ERα and GPR30 to regulate the expression levels of PI3K and its downstream apoptosis proteins.

Notoginsenoside R₁ (NGR₁) is separate from Panax notoginsenosides (PNS), and plays a role similar to phytoestrogen in preventing and treating cardiovascular diseases.

Protective effect of hydroalcoholic extracts of Trifolium pratense L. on pancreatic β cell line (RIN-5F) against cytotoxicty of streptozotocin

Natural plants have traditionally been used throughout the world for their anti-diabetic effects. The aim of the present study was to investigate the protective effect of hydroalcoholic extract of Trifolium pratens L. (T. pratense) on streptozotocin (STZ) cytotoxicity and insulin concentration from RIN-5F pancreatic β cell line. In this study, possible cytoprotective action of T. pratense extract (using pre-treatment, simultaneous, and post-treatment schedules) against STZ (30 mM) was evaluated using MTT assay. Apoptosis was quantified by fluorescent dye staining. Also, the effect of extract on insulin secretion in low and high glucose media was examined. Data were analyzed by one-way ANOVA test and P < 0.05 was considered significant. The viability of RIN-5F cells in 10, 20, 30, 40, and 60 μg/mL doses of T. pratense extract showed significant increases compared to control group (P < 0.001). STZ significantly reduced cell viability in a dose-dependent manner (P < 0.05). T. pratense extract in 20, 30, and 40 μg/mL doses had significant cytoprotective effect (P < 0.05) on cytotoxic action of STZ and this effect is greater in simultaneous treatment. STZ-mediated apoptotic death is reduced by extract. T. pratense extract treatment also, increased insulin concentration in cell culture medium. T. pratense had potent cytoprotective action, prevented apoptosis and increased insulin concentration in cell culture medium via the increase in pancreatic β cell number and/or insulin secretion. In addition, T. pratense enhanced viability of RIN-5F. Thus, T. pratense not only has anti-diabetic actions on β cells but also enhances their viability.

Effects of three different formulae of Gamisoyosan on lipid accumulation induced by oleic acid in HepG2 cells

BACKGROUND

Gamisoyosan (GSS) is an herbal formula which has been used to treat women's diseases for several hundred years in Korea. GSS is one of the three most common prescriptions among women and is used to treat menopausal symptoms. Fatty liver disease is also common in postmenopausal women and can precede more severe diseases, such as steatohepatitis. The present study compared the effects of GSS on fatty liver using three different formulae, Dongui-Bogam (KIOM A), Korean Pharmacopeia (KIOM B) and Korean National Health Insurance (KIOM C).

METHODS

In oleic acid-induced HepG2 fatty liver cells, cellular lipid accumulation, triglycerides and total cholesterol were measured after treatment with three GSS formulae and simvastatin as a positive control. To investigate the phytoestrogen activity of GSS, MCF-7 cells were treated with GSS, and hormone levels were quantified. Also, qualitative analysis was performed with UPLC.

RESULTS

All types of GSS decreased cellular lipid accumulation. KIOM A was slightly less effective than the other two GSS formulae. KIOM B and KIOM C decreased cellular triglycerides more effective than simvastatin, but KIOM A did not affect cellular triglycerides. Cellular total cholesterol was decreased by all GSS and simvastatin. GSS showed phytoestrogen activity in MCF-7 cells. From the UPLC analysis data, geniposide, paeoniflorin and glycyrrhizin were detected form three GSS formulae.

CONCLUSION

These results suggest that all GSS formulae have a beneficial effect on fatty liver disease during menopause and that differences of formula have no effect on the efficacy of the prescription.

Psoralen stimulates osteoblast proliferation through the activation of nuclear factor-κB-mitogen-activated protein kinase signaling

Osteoporosis is a systemic skeletal disease that leads to increased bone fragility and susceptibility to fracture. Approximately 50% of postmenopausal women develop osteoporosis as a result of postmenopausal estrogen deficiency. To reduce fractures related to osteoporosis in women, previous studies have focused on therapeutic strategies that aim to increase bone formation or decrease bone resorption. However, pharmacological agents that aim to improve bone fracture susceptibility exhibit side effects. Current studies are investigating natural alternatives that possess the benefits of selective estrogen receptor modulators (SERMs) without the adverse effects. Recent studies have indicated that phytoestrogen may be an ideal natural SERM for the treatment of osteoporosis. In Chinese herbal medicine, psoralen, as the predominant substance of Psoralea corylifolia, is considered to be a phytoestrogen and is used as a remedy for osteoporosis. A number of studies have demonstrated the efficacy of psoralen in bone formation. However, the pathways and underlying molecular mechanisms that participate in psoralen-induced osteoblast formation are not well understood. In the present study, hFOB1.19 cells were treated with psoralen at different concentrations (0, 5, 10, 15 and 20 µM) for 0, 24, 36, 48 and 72 h, respectively. Reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction and western blot assays were performed to detect glucose transporter 3 (GLUT3) expression. A cell counting kit-8 assay was used to analyze cell proliferation. In addition the effects of mitogen activated protein kinase inhibitors on extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK), phosphorylated (p)-ERK, p38, p-p38, c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK) and p-JNK expressions and cell proliferation were measured, as was the effect of nuclear factor (NF)-κB inhibitor on P65 and GLUT3 expressions and cell proliferation. The results indicated that psoralen stimulates hFOB1.19 cell proliferation in a dose-dependent manner (P<0.05). Phospho-ERK, p38 and JNK were markedly increased by psoralen compared with the control group (P<0.05), and the specific inhibitors of ERK (SCH772984), p38 (SB203580) and JNK (SP600125) reversed the stimulatory effects of psoralen on signal marker phosphorylation (P<0.05). The rate of psoralen-induced cell proliferation was significantly suppressed by inhibitors of ERK, JNK and p38 compared with psoralen treatment alone (P<0.05). In addition, psoralen stimulated osteoblast proliferation via the NF-κB signaling pathway. Therefore, the present findings suggest that psoralen may be a potential natural alternative to SERMs in the treatment of osteoporosis and fractures.

Daidzein down-regulates ubiquitin-specific protease 19 expression through estrogen receptor β and increases skeletal muscle mass in young female mice

Ubiquitin-specific protease 19 (USP19) is a key player in the negative regulation of muscle mass during muscle atrophy. Loss-of-function approaches demonstrate that 17β-estradiol (E2) increases USP19 expression through estrogen receptor (ER) α and consequently decreases soleus muscle mass in young female mice under physiological conditions. Daidzein is one of the main isoflavones in soy, and activates ERβ-dependent transcription. Here, we investigated the effects of daidzein on E2-increased USP19 expression and E2-decreased soleus muscle mass in young female mice. Daidzein stimulated the transcriptional activity of ERβ in murine C2C12 cells and down-regulated USP19 expression. Consistently, daidzein inhibited E2-induced USP19 expression in a reporter activity using a functional half-estrogen response element (hERE) from Usp19. Daidzein inhibited E2-induced recruitment of ERα and promoted recruitment of ERβ to the Usp19 hERE. Dietary daidzein down-regulated the expression of USP19 at the mRNA and protein levels and increased soleus muscle mass in female mice, but not in males. In soleus muscle from ovariectomized (OVX) female mice, dietary daidzein inhibited E2-increased USP19 mRNA expression and E2-decreased muscle mass. Furthermore, E2 induced the recruitment of ERα and ERβ to the hERE, whereas daidzein inhibited E2-induced recruitment of ERα, and enhanced E2-increased recruitment of ERβ, to the Usp19 hERE. These results demonstrate that dietary daidzein decreases USP19 mRNA expression through ERβ and increases soleus muscle mass in young female mice, but not in male mice, under physiological conditions.

Hypolipidemic effect of XH601 on hamsters of Hyperlipidemia and its potential mechanism

BACKGROUND

The novel compound XH601 is a synthesized derivative of formononetin. The present study was to investigate the hypolipidemia effect and potential mechanism of XH601.

METHODS

Male Golden Syrian hamsters were induced by high-fat diet (HFD) for eight weeks and the hyperlipidemic model was established successfully. After XH601 treatment, serum and hepatic biochemistry parameters of hamsters were detected and the effect of XH601 on adipose tissue was also analyzed. Furthermore, 3 T3-L1 cell differentiation by Oil-Red-O staining was observed and the mRNA and protein expression of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPARs) were measured by qRT-PCR and Western-blot in mature adipocytes.

RESULTS

The in vivo results suggest that XH601 significantly decreased the adipose weight and levels of serum triglyceride (TG), total cholesterol (TC), low-density lipoprotein (LDL-C), apolipoprotein B (Apo-B), apolipoprotein E (Apo-E), while increased serum high-density lipoprotein (HDL-C). The in vitro results implied that XH601 up-regulated the mRNA and protein expression of both PPARα and PPARβ/δ in a dose-dependent manner.

CONCLUSIONS

The study suggests that XH601 exhibited strong ability to improve the dyslipidemia in hamsters fed with high-fat diet. The potential mechanism of XH601 was associated with the up-regulation of PPARα and PPARβ/δ mRNA and protein expression.

Study of the estrogenic-like mechanism of glycosides of cistanche using metabolomics

Cistanche deserticola, known as Rou Cong-Rong in China, has been used as a tonic for more than 1800 years, with previous studies demonstrating that glycosides of cistanche (GCs) are a main active component.

A BRIEF COMMUNICATION

Nutritional supplements containing soybean phytoestrogens, the isoflavones genistein (G) and daidzein (D), are increasingly used as alternative therapy for osteoporosis, cancer, and cardiovascular and other diseases with a frequency that increases with advancing age. In this study we examined the effects of subcutaneous administration of either G or D on serum lipid levels in orchidectomized (Orx) and intact (IA) middle-aged male rats, which are experimental models of andropause. Sixteen-month-old Wistar rats were treated with 10 mg/kg and 30mg/kg of either G or D. The control groups received testosterone, estradiol, or vehicle for 3 weeks, after which the total serum cholesterol (TC), low-density lipoprotein (LDL-C), high-density lipoprotein (HDL-C), and total triglycerides (TT) were measured. Compared with the matching vehicle-treated controls, the higher doses of G and D and testosterone treatment significantly ( P < 0.05) lowered the TC and lipoprotein cholesterol levels. The greatest effect was observed regarding LDL-C in both Orx and IA males after G and D treatments, in which LDL-C decreased by more than 30%. The lower isoflavone doses induced a significant cholesterol-lowering effect ( P < 0.05) only in the Orx group. Like the estradiol treatment, the higher doses of G and D increased the TT levels in both rat models by more than 50% ( P < 0.05). The lower doses of isoflavones increased TT only in the Orx group. In male middle-aged rats, injections of higher doses of G and D decreased the serum cholesterol levels, as did testosterone injection, and brought about an increase in serum triglycerides similar to that observed after estradiol treatment.

Effects of Phytoestrogen Extracts Isolated from Elder Flower on Hormone Production and Receptor Expression of Trophoblast Tumor Cells JEG-3 and BeWo, as well as MCF7 Breast Cancer Cells

Hereinwe investigated the effect of elderflower extracts (EFE) and of enterolactone/enterodiol on hormone production and proliferation of trophoblast tumor cell lines JEG-3 and BeWo, as well as MCF7 breast cancer cells. The EFE was analyzed by mass spectrometry. Cells were incubated with various concentrations of EFE. Untreated cells served as controls. Supernatants were tested for estradiol production with an ELISA method. Furthermore, the effect of the EFE on ER/ER/PR expression was assessed by immunocytochemistry. EFE contains a substantial amount of lignans. Estradiol production was inhibited in all cells in a concentration-dependent manner. EFE upregulated ER in JEG-3 cell lines. In MCF7 cells, a significant ER downregulation and PR upregulation were observed. The control substances enterolactone and enterodiol in contrast inhibited the expression of both ER and of PR in MCF7 cells. In addition, the production of estradiol was upregulated in BeWo and MCF7 cells in a concentration dependent manner. The downregulating effect of EFE on ER expression and the upregulation of the PR expression in MFC-7 cells are promising results. Therefore, additional unknown substances might be responsible for ER downregulation and PR upregulation. These findings suggest potential use of EFE in breast cancer prevention and/or treatment and warrant further investigation.

Estrogenic and Anti-estrogenic Constituents of Erythrina caffra

Utilizing the pER8:GUS transgenic plant bioassay system to monitor estrogenic activity-guided fractionation, one new constituent, erycaffrain A, together with 11 known compounds were isolated from the ethanolic extract of Erythrina caffra. The structures of the isolated compounds were identified in combination with spectroscopic analyses. This is the first study reporting the estrogenic activity of E. caffra. The new compound exhibited as a SREM, but also showed both estrogenic and anti-estrogenic activities in the MCF-7 cancer cell model. Several known phytoestrogens in this plant also revealed possible new functions for E. caffra stem.

In touch with your feminine side: how oestrogen metabolism impacts prostate cancer

Prostate cancer is the primary cancer in males, with increasing global incidence rates making this malignancy a significant healthcare burden. Androgens not only promote normal prostate maturity but also influence the development and progression of prostate cancer. Intriguingly, evidence now suggests endogenous and exogenous oestrogens, in the form of phytoestrogens, may be equally as relevant as androgens in prostate cancer growth. The prostate gland has the molecular mechanisms, catalysed by steroid sulphatase (STS), to unconjugate and utilise circulating oestrogens. Furthermore, prostate tissue also expresses enzymes essential for local oestrogen metabolism, including aromatase (CYP19A1) and 3β- and 17β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenases. Increased expression of these enzymes in malignant prostate tissue compared with normal prostate indicates that oestrogen synthesis is favoured in malignancy and thus may influence tumour progression. In contrast to previous reviews, here we comprehensively explore the epidemiological and scientific evidence on how oestrogens impact prostate cancer, particularly focusing on pre-receptor oestrogen metabolism and subsequent molecular action. We analyse how molecular mechanisms and metabolic pathways involved in androgen and oestrogen synthesis intertwine to alter prostate tissue. Furthermore, we speculate on whether oestrogen receptor status in the prostate affects progression of this malignancy.

Evidence for genistein as a mitochondriotropic molecule

Genistein (4',5,7-trihydroxyisoflavone; C15H10O5), an isoflavone, has been investigated as an anti-cancer agent due to its ability to trigger cell death (both intrinsic and extrinsic apoptotic pathways) in different cancer cells in vitro and in vivo. Furthermore, genistein has been viewed as a mitochondriotropic molecule due to the direct effects this isoflavone induces in mitochondria, such as modulation of enzymatic activity of components of the oxidative phosphorylation system. Apoptosis triggering may also be mediated by genistein through activation of the mitochondria-dependent pathway by a mechanism associated with mitochondrial dysfunction (i.e., disruption of the mitochondrial membrane potential - MMP, release of cytochrome c, activation of the apoptosome, among others). Efforts have been made in order to elucidate how genistein coordinate these biochemical phenomena. Nonetheless, some areas of the mitochondria-associated research (mitochondrial biogenesis, redox biology of mitochondria, and mitochondria-associated bioenergetic parameters) need to be explored regarding the role of genistein as a mitochondria-targeted agent. This is a pharmacologically relevant issue due to the possibility of using genistein as a mitochondria-targeted drug in cases of cancer, neurodegeneration, cardiovascular, and endocrine disease, for example. The present review aims to describe, compare, and discuss relevant data about the effects of genistein upon mitochondria.

Neuroprotective Effects of Biochanin A against β-Amyloid-Induced Neurotoxicity in PC12 Cells via a Mitochondrial-Dependent Apoptosis Pathway

Alzheimer's disease is considered one of the major neurodegenerative diseases and is characterized by the production of β-amyloid (Aβ) proteins and progressive loss of neurons. Biochanin A, a phytoestrogen compound found mainly in Trifolium pratense, was used in the present study as a potential alternative to estrogen replacement therapy via the investigation of its neuroprotective effects against Aβ25-35-induced toxicity, as well as of its potential mechanisms of action in PC12 cells. Exposure of these cells to the Aβ25-35 protein significantly increased cell viability loss and apoptosis. However, the effects induced by Aβ25-35 were markedly reversed in the present of biochanin A. Pretreatment with biochanin A attenuated the cytotoxic effect of the Aβ25-35 protein by decreasing viability loss, LDH release, and caspase activity in cells. Moreover, we found that expression of cytochrome c and Puma were reduced, alongside with the restoration of Bcl-2/Bax and Bcl-xL/Bax ratio in the presence of biochanin A, which led to a decrease in the apoptotic rate. These data demonstrate that mitochondria are involved in the protective effect of biochanin A against Aβ25-35 and that this drug attenuated Aβ25-35-induced PC12 cell injury and apoptosis by preventing mitochondrial dysfunction. Thus, biochanin A might raise a possibility as a potential therapeutic agent for Alzheimer's disease and other related neurodegenerative diseases.

Glyceollins and dehydroglyceollins isolated from soybean act as SERMs and ER subtype-selective phytoestrogens

Seven prenylated 6a-hydroxy-pterocapans and five prenylated 6a,11a-pterocarpenes with different kinds of prenylation were purified from an ethanolic extract of fungus-treated soybean sprouts. The activity of these compounds toward both human estrogen receptors (hERα and hERβ) was determined in a yeast bioassay and the activity toward hERα was additionally tested in an U2-OS based hERα CALUX bioassay. In the yeast bioassay, compounds with chain prenylation showed in general an agonistic mode of action toward hERα, whereas furan and pyran prenylation led to an antagonistic mode of action. Five of these antagonistic compounds had an agonistic mode of action in the U2-OS based hERα CALUX bioassay, implying that these compounds can act as SERMs. The yeast bioassay also identified 8 ER subtype-selective compounds, with either an antagonistic mode of action or no response toward hERα and an agonistic mode of action toward hERβ. The ER subtype-selective compounds were characterized by 6a-hydroxy-pterocarpan or 6a,11a-pterocarpene backbone structure. It is suggested that either the extra D-ring or the increase in length to 12-13.5Å of these compounds is responsible for an agonistic mode of action toward hERβ and, thereby, inducing ER subtype-selective behavior.

Use of alpha-, beta-Estrogen Receptor as a "new tool" for detection of specific small molecule activity

Cell-based screening methods for nuclear receptor ligands that use transgenic plant cells expressing a single human NR may have advantages over other eukaryotic systems which express multiple NRs. For example, signal-to-noise ratio might be improved because ligands would be less likely to bind to other NRs and/or less likely to cause confounding functional changes in plant cells. As a first step toward this aim we have expressed in plants truncated human estrogen receptor (ER) constructs linked to reporters, or selective markers such as luciferase, green fluorescent protein (GFP) and hygromycin. A variety of ligands for the ER (including estradiol and known phytoestrogens) have then been tested for their ability to over-express the linked marker gene(s) which could be measured (luciferase activity), visualized under fluorescent microscopy (GFP activity), or selected on antibiotic-containing media (Hygromycin B). Our results show a close association between the effects of ER ligands in the transgenic plant roots and their effects on native ERs in mammalian cells. With the stable expression of an ERalpha-GFP ligand detection system in A. thaliana, the estradiol- mediated response in transgenic roots is inhibited by an ER partial agonist (tamoxifen) and an antagonist (fulvestrant) at concentrations relevant to their use in breast cancer. We conclude that it is possible to express human NRs in plants in a form that can report on exogenous or endogenous ER ligands and that these constructs have a pharmacology which is relevant to ligands for the native NRs in human cells.

Luminal Conversion and Immunoregulation by Probiotics

Beneficial microbes are responsible for the synthesis of nutrients and metabolites that are likely important for the maintenance of mammalian health. Many nutrients and metabolites derived from the gut microbiota by luminal conversion have been implicated in the development, homeostasis and function of innate and adaptive immunity. These factors clearly suggest that intestinal microbiota may influence host immunity via microbial metabolite-dependent mechanisms. We describe how intestinal microbes including probiotics generate microbial metabolites that modulate mucosal and systemic immunity.

FT-IR Method for the Quantification of Isoflavonol Glycosides in Nutritional Supplements of Soy (Glycine max (L.) MERR.)

Due to increasing health consciousness, a lot of food supplements are sold and used. Dietary supplements of Glycine max (L.) MERR. are used as an alternative treatment for menopausal complaints such as hot flashes. Thereby, the effective soy compounds are the isoflavones daidzin, genistin, and glycitin. However, only the total soy extract content of the nutritional supplements is indicated. The aim of this study is to introduce a fast, efficient, and economic Fourier transformation infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy method to quantify the active ingredients in the complex matrix of soy-based supplements. Five different nutritional supplements of Glycine max (L.) MERR. were purchased from a German pharmacy and were extracted with 80% aqueous methanol. A high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) method was used for the separation. The samples were concentrated and measured with infrared spectroscopy. An FT-IR method was established to quantify the active ingredients in the complex matrix of soy-based nutritional supplements. The partial least-squares algorithm was used to develop the method, which enabled the estimation of the content of particular isoflavones (daidzin R² = 0.86, glycitin R² = 0.94, genistin R² = 0.96) and the quantification of the total isoflavone content (R² = 0.92) despite peak overlap in the infrared (IR) spectra. The method for the quantification of the isoflavonol glycosides is precise with the standard error of prediction being 13.54%.

Estrogen receptor α mediates the effects of notoginsenoside R1 on endotoxin-induced inflammatory and apoptotic responses in H9c2 cardiomyocytes

Estrogen receptors (ERs) are important for preventing endotoxin-induced myocardial dysfunction. Therefore, plant-derived phytoestrogens, which target ERs may also affect endotoxin-induced toxicity in cardiomyocytes. Our previous study revealed that notoginsenoside-R1 (NG-R1), a predominant phytoestrogen from Panax notoginseng, protects against cardiac dysfunction. However, the effects of NG-R1 on cardiomyocytes and the precise cellular/molecular mechanisms underlying its action remain to be elucidated. In the present study, pretreatment with NG-R1 suppressed the lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced degradation of inhibitor of nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) α, the activation of NF-κB and caspase-3, and the subsequent myocardial inflammatory and apoptotic responses in H9c2 cardiomyocytes. An increase in the mRNA and protein expression of ERα was also observed in the NG-R1-treated cardiomyocytes. However, the expression pattern of ERβ remained unaltered. Furthermore, the cardioprotective properties of NG-R1 against LPS-induced apoptosis and the inflammatory response in cardiomyocytes were attenuated by ICI 182780, a non-selective ERα antagonist, and methyl-piperidino-pyrazole, a selective ERα antagonist. These findings suggested that NG-R1 reduced endotoxin-induced cardiomyocyte apoptosis and the inflammatory response via the activation of ERα. Therefore, NG-R1 exerted direct anti-inflammatory and anti-apoptotic effects on the cardiomyocytes, representing a potent agent for the treatment of myocardial inflammation during septic shock.

Soy and phytoestrogens: possible side effects

Phytoestrogens are present in certain edible plants being most abundant in soy; they are structurally and functionally analogous to the estrogens. Phytoestrogens have been applied for compensation of hormone deficiency in the menopause. At the same time, soy products are used in infant food and other foodstuffs. Furthermore, soy is applied as animal fodder, so that residual phytoestrogens and their active metabolites such as equol can remain in meat and influence the hormonal balance of the consumers. There have been only singular reports on modified gender-related behavior or feminization in humans in consequence of soy consumption. In animals, the intake of phytoestrogens was reported to impact fertility, sexual development and behavior. Feminizing effects in humans can be subtle and identifiable only statistically in large populations.

Coumestrol inhibits carotid sinus baroreceptor activity by cAMP/PKA dependent nitric oxide release in anesthetized male rats

Phytoestrogens could offer multiple beneficial effects on the cardiovascular system. Here, we have examined the effects of coumestrol (CMT) on carotid baroreceptors activity (CBA) and the possible mechanisms in male rats. The functional parameters of carotid baroreceptors were measured by recording sinus nerve afferent discharge in anesthetized male rats with perfused isolated carotid sinus. The levels of protein expression were determined by using ELISA and Western blotting. CMT (1 to 100μmolL(-1)) inhibited CBA, which shifted the functional curve of the carotid baroreceptor to the right and downward, with a marked decrease in the peak slope and the peak integral value of carotid sinus nerve discharge in a concentration dependent manner. These effects were not blocked by a specific estrogen receptor antagonist ICI 182,780, but were completely abolished by nitric oxide (NO) synthase inhibitor l-NAME (N(G)-nitro-l-arginine methyl ester). Furthermore, a NO donor, SIN-1(3-morpholion-sydnon-imine), could potentiate these inhibitory effects of CMT. CMT stimulated the phosphorylation of Ser(1176)-eNOS (endothelial nitric oxide synthase) in a dose-dependent manner in carotid bifurcation tissue over a perfusion period of 15min. The rapid activation of eNOS by CMT was blocked by a highly selective PKA (protein kinase A) inhibitor H89. In addition, inhibition of PI3K (phosphatidylinositol-3-kinase) and ERK (extracellular signal-regulated kinase) pathways had no effect on eNOS activation by CMT. CMT inhibited CBA via eNOS activation and NO synthesis. These effects were mediated by the cAMP/PKA pathway and were unrelated to the estrogenic effect.

Structural changes of 6a-hydroxy-pterocarpans upon heating modulate their estrogenicity

The isoflavonoid composition of an ethanolic extract of fungus-treated soybean sprouts was strongly altered by a combined acid/heat treatment. UHPLC-MS analysis showed that 6a-hydroxy-pterocarpans were completely converted to their respective, more stable, 6a,11a-pterocarpenes, whereas other isoflavonoids, from the isoflavone and coumestan subclasses, were affected to a much lesser extent (loss of ∼15%). Subsequently, mixtures enriched in prenylated 6a-hydroxy-pterocarpans (pools of glyceollin I/II/III and glyceollin IV/VI) or prenylated 6a,11a-pterocarpenes (pools of dehydroglyceollin I/II/III and dehydroglyceollin IV/VI) were purified, and tested for activity on both human estrogen receptors (ERα and ERβ). In particular, the response toward ERα changed, from agonistic for glyceollins to antagonistic for dehydroglyceollins. Toward ERβ a decrease in agonistic activity was observed. These results indicate that the introduction of a double bond with the concomitant loss of a hydroxyl group in 6a-hydroxy-pterocarpans extensively modulates their estrogenic activity.

Phytoestrogens in postmenopause: the state of the art from a chemical, pharmacological and regulatory perspective

Phytoestrogens represent a diverse group of non-steroidal natural products, which seem to have some oestrogenic effects and are often marketed as food supplements. Population exposed to phytoestrogens is potentially increasing, in part because an unfavourable risk-benefit profile of Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) for prolonged treatments (e.g., osteoporosis prevention) highlighted by the publication of the Women Health Initiative (WHI) trial in 2002, but also because many post-menopausal women often perceived phytoestrogens in food supplements as a safer alternative than HRT. Despite of increasing preclinical and clinical studies in the past decade, appealing evidence is still lacking to support the overall positive risk-benefit profile of phytoestrogens. Their status as food supplements seems to discourage studies to obtain new evidence, and the chance to buy them by user's initiative make it difficult to survey their prevalence and pattern of use. The aim of the present review is to: (a) outline the clinical scenario underlying the increased interest on phytoestrogens, by overviewing the evolution of the evidence on HRT and its main therapeutic goals (e.g., menopausal symptoms relief, chemoprevention, osteoporosis prevention); (b) address the chemical and pharmacological features (e.g. chemical structure, botanical sources, mechanism of action) of the main compounds (e.g., isoflavones, lignans, coumestans); (c) describe the clinical evidence on potential therapeutic applications; (d) put available evidence on their riskbenefit profile in a regulatory perspective, in light of the recent regulation on health claims of food supplements.

Oxidative metabolism enhances the cytotoxic and genotoxic properties of the soy isoflavone daidzein

SCOPE

Oxidative metabolism of daidzein (DAI) might result in the formation of hydroxylated metabolites. Here, we address the question whether these metabolites differ in their biological activity from the parent isoflavone, exemplified for the epidermal growth factor receptor and topoisomerase II, potentially resulting in an enhanced toxic profile.

METHODS AND RESULTS

In contrast to DAI, 6-hydroxydaidzein (6-HO-DAI) and 8-hydroxydaidzein (8-HO-DAI) were found to inhibit the tyrosine kinase activity of the epidermal growth factor receptor in an ELISA-based test system, but showed no effects within cells. Further, the oxidative metabolites suppressed the catalytic activity of topoisomerase II in the decatenation assay. In the in vivo complexes of enzyme to DNA (ICE) bioassay, 6-HO-DAI and 8-HO-DAI did not affect the level of covalent topoisomerase II-DNA intermediates within HT29 cells, thus arguing for a catalytic inhibition of topoisomerase II rather than poisoning activity. In contrast to DAI, 6-HO-DAI and 8-HO-DAI significantly increased the rate of DNA strand breaks in HT29 cells after 24-h incubation and caused a cell cycle delay in S-phase. Differences were also observed between the oxidative metabolites, with only 6-HO-DAI inducing apoptosis but not 8-HO-DAI.

CONCLUSION

These data indicate that oxidative metabolism of DAI generates metabolites with genotoxic properties where interference with topoisomerase II might play a role.

Cytotoxic effects of Euterpe oleracea Mart. in malignant cell lines

Background

Euterpe oleracea Mart., a plant from the Amazon region, is commonly known as açaí or juçara; it has high nutritional value and elevated levels of lipids, proteins, and minerals. Açaí is an abundant and much consumed fruit by the Amazon local population, and studies have demonstrated that it is rich in phytochemicals with antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anticancer activities. Therefore, the aim of this study was to test this plant for anticancer activity in different human malignant cell lines.

Methods

Cell lines derived from breast and colorectal adenocarcinomas were treated with 10, 20, and 40 μg/mL of bark, seed, and total açaí fruit hydroalcoholic extracts for 24 and 48 h. After treatment, cell viability was measured using 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assays, and cell morphological features were observed by light and transmission electron microscopy. The type of cell death was also evaluated. The data were analyzed statistically by one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA), followed by Dunnett’s or Tukey’s post hoc tests, as appropriate.

Results

We observed that of all the cell lines tested, MCF-7 was the only line that responded to açaí treatment. The extracts caused significant reduction (p < 0.01) in cell viability and altered cell morphological features by inducing the appearance of autophagic vacuoles, as observed by transmission electron microscopy. Furthermore, increased expression of LC3BII, a protein marker of autophagosome formation, was observed by western blotting. Caspase Glo™ assays and morphologic observations by DAPI nuclear staining and transmission electron microscopy did not indicate any apoptotic events.

Conclusions

The present study demonstrated that açaí possesses antitumorigenic potential in the MCF-7 cell line. Further studies are needed to identify the compound (s) responsible for this cytotoxic activity and the molecular target in the cell. This discovery of the anticancer potential of açaí may help in the development of chemopreventive drugs and may have therapeutic effects in the treatment of breast cancer.

Estrogenic and anti-estrogenic activities of hispolon from Phellinus lonicerinus (Bond.) Bond. et sing

Hispolon was the main antitumor active ingredient in Phellinus sensu lato species. In order to confirm the dual regulating estrogenic ingredient and obtain more effective natural estrogen replacement drugs, hispolon was separated from Phellinus lonicerinus (Bond.) Bond. et sing. Hispolon exhibited significant anti-proliferative effect against estrogen-sensitive ER (+) MCF-7 cells in the absence of estrogen, and exhibits antagonistic effects on 17β-estradiol (E2)-induced MCF-7 cell proliferation when E2 and the different concentrations of hispolon were treated simultaneously. Hispolon also inhibited the proliferation of estrogen-negative ER (-) MDA-MB-231 cells at the concentration of 5.00×10(-5) M. The yeast two-hybrid experiments showed that hispolon had strong and non-selective effects on the estrogen receptor (ER) α and ERβ at a concentration of 1.00×10(-6) M. The ERβ-binding ability of hispolon was larger than ERα in the concentration range of 1.00×10(-9) M and 1.00×10(-7) M. Hispolon could increase the body weight coefficient, serum E2 and progesterone contents in immature female mice at dose of 9.10×10(-6) mol/kg, and increase coefficient of thymus and spleen in mice. The Gscores of hispolon-ERα and hispolon-ERβ docked complexes were -7.93 kcal/mol and -7.79 kcal/mol in docking simulations. Hispolon presented dual regulating estrogenic activities, which showed estrogenic agonist activity at low concentration or lack of endogenous estrogen, and the estrogenic antagonistic effect was stimulated at high concentrations or too much endogenous estrogen. Hispolon could be used for treating the estrogen deficiency-related disease with the benefit of non-toxic to normal cells, good antitumor effects and estrogenic activity.

A structural framework of biologically active coumarin derivatives: crystal structure and Hirshfeld surface analysis

The relation between the lipophilicity parameter (log P) and the contribution of C–H⋯π interactions to the Hirshfeld surface has been investigated.