Potential role of phytochemicals in metabolic syndrome prevention and therapy

The therapeutic potential of typical plant-derived compounds for the management of metabolic disorders

Obesity and Type 2 diabetes are prevalent metabolic dysfunctions that present significant health challenges worldwide. Available cures for these ailments have constraints with accompanying unwanted effects that persistently exist. Compounds originated from plants have recently been introduced as hopeful remedies to treat metabolic disorders because of their diverse pharmacological activities. This detailed observation gives an introduction into the treatment capacity of plant-derived compounds regarding metabolic syndromes while analyzing various groups alongside their performance in this field despite unique mechanisms designed by nature itself. Interestingly, this study provides some examples including curcumin, resveratrol, quercetin, berberine, epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), and capsaicin, which highlights potential therapeutic impacts for future testing. However, current clinical trials inspecting human studies investigating efficacies concerning metabolism challenge present limitations. Finally, the review weighs up bad reactions possibly inflicted after administering plant-originated materials though suggestive insights will be provided later. Above all, it outlines the chance to identify novel therapies encapsulated within natural substances based upon recent developments could hold significant promise toward managing misplaced metabolisms globally.

Effects of Anthocyanins on Components of Metabolic Syndrome-A Review

Metabolic syndrome (MetS) is a significant health problem. The co-occurrence of obesity, carbohydrate metabolism disorders, hypertension and atherogenic dyslipidaemia is estimated to affect 20-30% of adults worldwide. Researchers are seeking solutions to prevent and treat the conditions related to MetS. Preventive medicine, which focuses on modifiable cardiovascular risk factors, including diet, plays a special role. A diet rich in fruits and vegetables has documented health benefits, mainly due to the polyphenolic compounds it contains. Anthocyanins represent a major group of polyphenols; they exhibit anti-atherosclerotic, antihypertensive, antithrombotic, anti-inflammatory and anticancer activities, as well as beneficial effects on endothelial function and oxidative stress. This review presents recent reports on the mechanisms involved in the protective effects of anthocyanins on the body, especially among people with MetS. It includes epidemiological data, in vivo and in vitro preclinical studies and clinical observational studies. Anthocyanins are effective, widely available compounds that can be used in both the prevention and treatment of MetS and its complications. Increased consumption of anthocyanin-rich foods may contribute to the maintenance of normal body weight and modulation of the lipid profile in adults. However, further investigation is needed to confirm the beneficial effects of anthocyanins on serum glucose levels, improvement in insulin sensitivity and reduction in systolic and diastolic blood pressure.

New Therapeutic Strategies for Obesity and Its Metabolic Sequelae: Brazilian Cerrado as a Unique Biome

Brazil has several important biomes holding impressive fauna and flora biodiversity. Cerrado being one of the richest ones and a significant area in the search for new plant-based products, such as foods, cosmetics, and medicines. The therapeutic potential of Cerrado plants has been described by several studies associating ethnopharmacological knowledge with phytochemical compounds and therapeutic effects. Based on this wide range of options, the Brazilian population has been using these medicinal plants (MP) for centuries for the treatment of various health conditions. Among these, we highlight metabolic diseases, namely obesity and its metabolic alterations from metabolic syndrome to later stages such as type 2 diabetes (T2D). Several studies have shown that adipose tissue (AT) dysfunction leads to proinflammatory cytokine secretion and impaired free fatty acid (FFA) oxidation and oxidative status, creating the basis for insulin resistance and glucose dysmetabolism. In this scenario, the great Brazilian biodiversity and a wide variety of phytochemical compounds make it an important candidate for the identification of pharmacological strategies for the treatment of these conditions. This review aimed to analyze and summarize the current literature on plants from the Brazilian Cerrado that have therapeutic activity against obesity and its metabolic conditions, reducing inflammation and oxidative stress.

The association of dietary phytochemical index and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease

Consumption of phytochemical-rich foods relates to the prevention of chronic diseases. In this study we assessed the dietary phytochemical index (PI) in metabolic parameters, liver enzymes, and severity of fibrosis among nonalcoholic fatty liver disease patients. This cross-sectional study was conducted on 210 patients with NAFLD. Fibrosis-4 index (FLB4), nonalcoholic fatty liver disease fibrosis score (NFS), FBS, lipids profile, AST, ALT, ALP, and GGT were measured. PI was calculated through the information obtained from a validated semi-quantitative food frequency. Multiple regression models were used to estimate mean difference changes in the evaluated variables associated with various dietary PI. Participants' mean ± SD of age and BMI were 39.23 ± 10.52 and 24.40 ± 2.64, respectively. We found that DPI is inversely associated with serum TG, TC, and LDL-C and directly associated with serum HDL-C and a higher score in DPI is associated with lower scores in NFS and FIB-4. Multivariate linear regression showed that there is an inverse association between DPI and AST, ALT, ALP, GGT, NFS, and FIB-4. Higher dietary PI could impact on reduction of NAFLD progression and improvement of metabolic parameters.

Efficacy and safety of dietary polyphenols in rheumatoid arthritis: A systematic review and meta-analysis of 47 randomized controlled trials

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate safety and efficacy of dietary polyphenols in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis (RA).

METHODS

CNKI, Pubmed, Cochrane library, Embase were searched to collect randomized controlled trials (RCTs) of dietary polyphenols in the treatment of RA. The databases were searched from the time of their establishment to November 8nd, 2022. After 2 reviewers independently screened the literature, extracted data, and assessed the risk of bias of the included studies, Meta-analysis was performed using RevMan5.4 software.

RESULTS

A total of 49 records (47 RCTs) were finally included, involving 3852 participants and 15 types of dietary polyphenols (Cinnamon extract, Cranberry extract, Crocus sativus L. extract, Curcumin, Garlic extract, Ginger extract, Hesperidin, Olive oil, Pomegranate extract, Puerarin, Quercetin, Resveratrol, Sesamin, Tea polyphenols, Total glucosides of paeony). Pomegranate extract, Resveratrol, Garlic extract, Puerarin, Hesperidin, Ginger extract, Cinnamon extract, Sesamin only involve in 1 RCT. Cranberry extract, Crocus sativus L. extract, Olive oil, Quercetin, Tea polyphenols involve in 2 RCTs. Total glucosides of paeony and Curcumin involve in more than 3 RCTs. These RCTs showed that these dietary polyphenols could improve disease activity score for 28 joints (DAS28), inflammation levels or oxidative stress levels in RA. The addition of dietary polyphenols did not increase adverse events.

CONCLUSION

Dietary polyphenols may improve DAS28, reduce C-reactive protein (CRP) and erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), and improve oxidative stress, etc. However, more RCTs are needed to verify or modify the efficacy and safety of dietary polyphenols.

SYSTEMATIC REVIEW REGISTRATION

https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/, identifier CRD42022315645.

Effects of a Mealworm (Tenebrio molitor) Extract on Metabolic Syndrome-Related Pathologies: In Vitro Insulin Sensitivity, Inflammatory Response, Hypolipidemic Activity and Oxidative Stress

The mealworm (Tenebrio molitor Linnaeus 1758) is gaining importance as one of the most popular edible insects. Studies focusing on its bioactivities are increasing, although alternative forms of consumption other than the whole insect or flour, such as bioactive non-protein extracts, remain underexplored. Furthermore, the incidence of metabolic syndrome-related pathologies keeps increasing, hence the importance of seeking novel natural sources for reducing the impact of certain risk factors. The aim was to study the potential of a non-protein mealworm extract on metabolic syndrome-related pathologies, obtained with ethanol:water (1:1, v/v) by ultrasound-assisted extraction. We characterized the extract by gas-chromatography mass-spectrometry and assessed its hypolipidemic potential, its ability to scavenger free radicals, to attenuate the inflammatory response in microglial cells, to affect mitochondrial respiration and to enhance insulin sensitivity in mouse hepatocytes. The extract contained fatty acids, monoglycerides, amino acids, certain acids and sugars. The mealworm extract caused a 30% pancreatic lipase inhibition, 80% DPPH· scavenging activity and 55.9% reduction in the bioaccessibility of cholesterol (p = 0.009). The extract was effective in decreasing iNOS levels, increasing basal, maximal and ATP coupled respiration as well as enhancing insulin-mediated AKT phosphorylation at low insulin concentrations (p < 0.05). The potential of a non-protein bioactive mealworm extract against metabolic syndrome-related pathologies is shown, although further studies are needed to elucidate the mechanisms and relationship with compounds.

The metabolic and molecular mechanisms of α‑mangostin in cardiometabolic disorders (Review)

α-mangostin is a xanthone predominantly encountered in Garcinia mangostana. Extensive research has been carried out concerning the effects of this compound on various diseases, including obesity, cancer and metabolic disorders. The present review suggests that α-mangostin exerts promising anti-obesity, hepatoprotective, antidiabetic, cardioprotective, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects on various pathways in cardiometabolic diseases. The anti-obesity effects of α-mangostin include the reduction of body weight and adipose tissue size, the increase in fatty acid oxidation, the activation of hepatic AMP-activated protein kinase and Sirtuin-1, and the reduction of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ expression. Hepatoprotective effects have been revealed, due to reduced fibrosis through transforming growth factor-β 1 pathways, reduced apoptosis and steatosis through reduced sterol regulatory-element binding proteins expression. The antidiabetic effects include decreased fasting blood glucose levels, improved insulin sensitivity and the increased expression of GLUT transporters in various tissues. Cardioprotection is exhibited through the restoration of cardiac functions and structure, improved mitochondrial functions, the promotion of M2 macrophage populations, reduced endothelial and cardiomyocyte apoptosis and fibrosis, and reduced acid sphingomyelinase activity and ceramide depositions. The antioxidant effects of α-mangostin are mainly related to the modulation of antioxidant enzymes, the reduction of oxidative stress markers, the reduction of oxidative damage through a reduction in Sirtuin 3 expression mediated by phosphoinositide 3-kinase/protein kinase B/peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-γ coactivator-1α signaling pathways, and to the increase in Nuclear factor-erythroid factor 2-related factor 2 and heme oxygenase-1 expression levels. The anti-inflammatory effects of α-mangostin include its modulation of nuclear factor-κB related pathways, the suppression of mitogen-activated protein kinase activation, increased macrophage polarization to M2, reduced inflammasome occurrence, increased Sirtuin 1 and 3 expression, the reduced expression of inducible nitric oxide synthase, the production of nitric oxide and prostaglandin E2, the reduced expression of Toll-like receptors and reduced proinflammatory cytokine levels. These effects demonstrate that α-mangostin may possess the properties required for a suitable candidate compound for the management of cardiometabolic diseases.

Ethanolic extract of Lippia graveolens stem reduce biochemical markers in a Murine Model with Metabolic Syndrome

Metabolic Syndrome (MetS) is a risk to develop metabolic-chronic degenerative disease, it is important to find natural alternatives to help decrease the risk. Mexican oregano has a traditional use in Mexican food, moreover, has pharmacologic effects that can help to reduce risk the metabolic syndrome. The aim of this work was to determine the effect of Mexican oregano ethanolic extract in metabolic syndrome in murine model.

Ethanolic extract of Mexican oregano (Lippia graveolens) stem (Ext) had a favorable effect on biochemical markers in a murine model of MetS, induced by injection of monosodium glutamate (MSG). From newborn female mice, two groups were formed: control and the MSG groups, which received a dosage of 2 mg/kg of MSG via subcutaneous injection at the second and fourth postnatal day (PD 2,4), and 4 mg/kg at the PD 6, 8, 10 to induce obesity. On week 13, a part of the MSG group received Ext (group MSG + Ext) at 300 mg/kg, administered orally daily from week 13 to week 18. The results indicated that ethanolic extract of Lippia graveolens stem decreases the percentage of body fat, waist circumference, and body weight gain as well as cholesterol, serum triglyceride concentrations and systolic and diastolic pressure. Insulin and leptin hormone values showed a significant effect with the Ext administration. However, hepatic lipoperoxidation levels of MSG and MSG + Ext groups did not show any statistically significant differences between them, both being higher than the control group. Taking in consideration the results obtained in this study, it is concluded that the administration of Ext had a beneficial effect in the murine model with MetS. This is the first study demonstrating the potential of the polar fraction Lippia graveolens stem in MetS.

Modulation of Gut Microbiota by Essential Oils and Inorganic Nanoparticles: Impact in Nutrition and Health

Microbiota plays a crucial role in human health and disease; therefore, the modulation of this complex and yet widely unexplored ecosystem is a biomedical priority. Numerous antibacterial alternatives have been developed in recent years, imposed by the huge problem of antibioresistance, but also by the people demand for natural therapeutical products without side effects, as dysbiosis, cyto/hepatotoxicity. Current studies are focusing mainly in the development of nanoparticles (NPs) functionalized with herbal and fruit essential oils (EOs) to fight resistant pathogens. This is due to their increased efficiency against susceptible, multidrug resistant and biofilm embedded microorganisms. They are also studied because of their versatile properties, size and possibility to ensure a targeted administration and a controlled release of bioactive substances. Accordingly, an increasing number of studies addressing the effects of functional nanoparticles and plant products on microbial pathogens has been observed. Regardless the beneficial role of EOs and NPs in the treatment of infectious diseases, concerns regarding their potential activity against human microbiota raised constantly in recent years. The main focus of current research is on gut microbiota (GM) due to well documented metabolic and immunological functions of gut microbes. Moreover, GM is constantly exposed to micro- and nano-particles, but also plant products (including EOs). Because of the great diversity of both microbiota and chemical antimicrobial alternatives (i.e., nanomaterials and EOs), here we limit our discussion on the interactions of gut microbiota, inorganic NPs and EOs. Impact of accidental exposure caused by ingestion of day care products, foods, atmospheric particles and drugs containing nanoparticles and/or fruit EOs on gut dysbiosis and associated diseases is also dissected in this paper. Current models developed to investigate mechanisms of dysbiosis after exposure to NPs/EOs and perspectives for identifying factors driving EOs functionalized NPs dysbiosis are reviewed.

FTO gene expression in diet-induced obesity is downregulated by Solanum fruit supplementation

The Fat Mass and Obesity-associated (FTO) gene has been shown to play an important role in developing obesity, manifesting in traits such as increased body mass index, increased waist-to-hip ratio, and the distribution of adipose tissues, which increases the susceptibility to various metabolic syndromes. In this study, we evaluated the impact of fruit-based diets of Solanum melongena (SMF) and Solanum aethiopicum fruits (SAF) on the FTO gene expression levels in a high-fat diet (HFD)-induced obese animals. Our results showed that the mRNA level of the FTO gene was downregulated in the hypothalamus, and white and brown adipose tissue following three and six weeks of treatment with SMF- and SAF-based diets in the HFD-induced obese animals. Additionally, the Solanum fruit supplementation exhibited a curative effect on obesity-associated abrasions on the white adipose tissue (WAT), hypothalamus, and liver. Our findings collectively suggest the anti-obesity potential of SMF and SAF via the downregulation of the FTO gene.

Dietary phytochemical consumption is inversely associated with liver alkaline phosphatase in Middle Eastern adults

BACKGROUND

The hepatoprotective effects of phytochemicals are controversial. A dietary phytochemical index (DPI) has been suggested as an alternative method for quantifying the phytochemical content of foods.

AIM

To assess the DPI in relation to liver function tests among a representative sample of Iranian adults.

METHODS

A total of 5111 participants aged 35-70 years old were included in this cross-sectional study by a multistage cluster random sampling method. Dietary intakes were collected by a validated and reliable food frequency questionnaire with 121 items. DPI was calculated by the percent of daily energy intake taken from phytochemical-rich foods. Fasting serum concentrations of alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alkaline phosphatase (ALP) and gamma glutamyl transferase (GGT) were determined. Linear regression was used to investigate the association between DPI and levels of liver enzymes using crude and adjusted models.

RESULTS

There was an inverse association between DPI score and serum ALP in the crude model (β = -0.05; P < 0.001). This association remained significant after adjustment for body mass index, age, smoking, energy intake, history of diabetes, and education (β = -0.03; P = 0.01). No significant associations were found between DPI score and serum levels of AST, ALT, and GGT. The individuals with the highest DPI scores consumed significantly higher amounts of fruits, vegetables, legumes, nuts, and cereals, yet were shown to have significantly higher serum total cholesterol and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, as well as several other metabolic abnormalities.

CONCLUSION

Higher adherence to phytochemical-rich foods was associated with lower levels of ALP, but no change in other liver enzymes. Those with higher DPI scores also consumed food items associated with a healthier overall dietary pattern; however, they also presented several unexpected metabolic derangements. Additional randomised trials are needed to better determine the effects of phytochemical-rich foods on liver function.

GC/MS characterization and computational kinome-wide screening of pomegranate fruit extract identifies key phytochemicals interacting to CDK kinases implicated in acute myeloid leukemia cells

Punica granatum (Pomegranate fruit) and its constituents are proven effective against various cancer types. However, a kinome-wide screening for the active phytochemicals against kinases is not reported. This study aims in validating pomegranate fruit extract (PFE) against acute myeloid leukemia (AML) cells, and computationally identifying the phytochemicals interacting with active kinases. PFE was made with Soxhlet extractor using absolute ethanol. Gas-chromatography-mass spectroscopy (GC-MS) for phytochemical identification and MTT assay for cytotoxicity in AML (THP-1, TF-1 and HL-60) cells were performed. Apoptosis, CDK5 and CDK8 were assessed with flow cytometry. Kinase profiling was performed using In silico kinome screening. GC-MS analysis revealed 38 bioactive phytochemicals in PFE including pyrazoles, aldehydes, phenols, esters, pyranosides, and octadecadienoic acids. The extract inhibited the AML cell proliferations with GI₅₀ values of 195.5 μg/ml, 289.1 μg/ml, and 353.5 μg/ml in THP-1, THP-1, and HL-60 cells, respectively. PFE also exhibited a dose-responsive increase in apoptotic cell populations when treated to the AML cells. Computational screening and modeling predicted three critical constituents, viz., Deoxyartemisinin, 3-Methyl-3-phenyl-3H-indazole, and 8-fluoro-5,6-dimethoxy-3,4-dihydro-2H-naphthalen-1-one of pomegranate extract to interact mainly with cyclin-dependent kinases, including CDK5 and CDK8. Proteinand ligand docking predicted binding energies, and binding pose for top candidate lead molecules. In vitro assay exhibited the anticancer properties of PFE in AML cells. Computational kinome screening predicted top three PFE constituents targeting CDKs which may be responsible for the demonstrated anticancer efficacy of the extract against AML. This hypothesis further aligned with observed efficacy of PFE to inhibit CDK5 and CDK8 in all AML cells tested. PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS: Though Punica granatum (Pomegranate fruit) and its constituents are proven effective against various cancer types, a kinome-wide screening for the active phytochemicals against kinases is not reported. In this study, we have conducted GC/MS characterization of the active phytochemicals of PFE and have performed a kinome-wide screening for all the 38 identified compounds toward 310 active kinases commonly expressed in cancers. These observations warrant isolation and further evaluation of these phytochemicals or their analogues as effective CDK inhibitors against AML proliferation. Further, the computational methods used in this study will throw light on literature for new options of kinome panel screening of active phytochemicals or small molecules.

Blueberry Supplementation in Midlife for Dementia Risk Reduction

Late-life dementia typically develops over a period of many years beginning in midlife. Prevalence of metabolic disturbance also accelerates in middle age and is a prominent risk factor for dementia. Preliminary studies indicate that blueberry supplementation can improve cognitive performance and influence metabolism and brain function and therefore may have a role in early intervention to prevent neurodegeneration. In a randomized controlled trial, we investigated the effects of daily blueberry supplementation in a middle-aged sample of insulin-resistant participants with elevated risk for future dementia. We enrolled overweight men and women, aged 50 to 65 years, with subjective cognitive decline (SCD) and performed pre- and post-intervention assessments of cognition and metabolism and exploratory measures of peripheral mitochondrial function. We observed improved performances for the blueberry group on measures of lexical access, p = 0.003, and memory interference, p = 0.04, and blueberry-treated participants reported reduced memory encoding difficulty in daily life activities, p = 0.03. The blueberry-treated group also exhibited correction of peripheral hyperinsulinemia, p = 0.04, and a modest trend for increased mitochondrial uncoupling, p = 0.11. The cognitive findings indicated improved executive ability in this middle-aged sample. In addition, the changes in metabolic and bioenergetic measures imply potential mechanistic factors associated with anthocyanin and proanthocyanidin actions. The demonstration of these benefits in middle-aged individuals with insulin resistance and SCD suggests that ongoing blueberry supplementation may contribute to protection against cognitive decline when implemented early in at-risk individuals.

Associations of Dietary Vitamin C and E Intake With Depression. A Meta-Analysis of Observational Studies

Objective

The associations of dietary vitamin C and E intake with depression remains conflicting. This meta-analysis of observational study was therefore employed to clarify the issue further.

Methods

An extensive literature review (PubMed, Web of Science and Embase) was performed in January 2022 to identify the observational studies on the associations of dietary vitamin C and E intake with depression. The pooled relative risk (RR) of depression for the highest versus lowest dietary vitamin C and E intake category, and the weighted mean difference (WMD) of dietary vitamin C and E intake for depression versus control subjects, were calculated.

Results

A total of 25 observational studies (91966 participants) were included in this meta-analysis. The overall multi-variable adjusted RR demonstrated that dietary vitamin C intake was inversely associated with depression (RR = 0.72, 95% CI: 0.57 to 0.91; P = 0.005). In addition, the combined WMD showed that the dietary vitamin C intake in depression was lower than that in control subjects (WMD = −11.58, 95% CI: −14.88 to −8.29; P < 0.001). Similarly, the overall multi-variable adjusted RR demonstrated that dietary vitamin E intake was negatively associated with depression (RR = 0.84, 95% CI: 0.72 to 0.98; P = 0.02). Moreover, the combined WMD showed that the dietary vitamin E intake in depression was also lower than that in control subjects (WMD = −0.71, 95% CI: −1.07 to −0.34; P < 0.001).

Conclusion

The results of this meta-analysis suggest that both dietary vitamin C and E intake is inversely associated with depression. However, due to the limited evidence, more well-designed prospective cohort studies are still needed.

Sesamol counteracts on metabolic disorders of middle-aged alimentary obese mice through regulating skeletal muscle glucose and lipid metabolism

Background

Globally, obesity is a significant public problem, especially when aging. Sesamol, a phenolic lignan present in sesame seeds, might have a positive effect on high-fat diet (HFD)-induced obesity associated with aging.

Objective

The purpose of current research study was to explore salutary effects and mechanisms of sesamol in treating alimentary obesity and associated metabolic syndrome in middle-aged mice.

Methods

C57BL/6J mice aged 4–6 weeks and 6–8 months were assigned to the young normal diet group, middle-aged normal diet group, middle-aged HFD group, and middle-aged HFD + sesamol group. At the end of experiment, glucose tolerance test and insulin tolerance test were performed; the levels of lipids and oxidative stress-related factors in the serum and skeletal muscle were detected using chemistry reagent kits; lipid accumulation in skeletal muscle was observed by oil red O staining; the expressions of muscular glucose and lipid metabolism associated proteins were measured by Western blotting.

Results

Sesamol decreased the body weight and alleviated obesity-associated metabolism syndrome in middle-aged mice, such as glucose intolerance, insulin resistance, dyslipidemia, and oxidative stress. Moreover, muscular metabolic disorders were attenuated after treatment with sesamol. It increased the expression of glucose transporter type-4 and down-regulated the protein levels of pyruvate dehydrogenase kinase isozyme 4, implying the increase of glucose uptake and oxidation. Meanwhile, sesamol decreased the expression of sterol regulatory element binding protein 1c and up-regulated the phosphorylation of hormone-sensitive lipase and the level of carnitine palmityl transferase 1α, which led to the declined lipogenesis and the increased lipolysis and lipid oxidation. In addition, the SIRT1/AMPK signaling pathway was triggered by sesamol, from which it is understood how sesamol enhances glucose and lipid metabolism.

Conclusions

Sesamol counteracts on metabolic disorders of middle-aged alimentary obese mice through regulating skeletal muscle glucose and lipid metabolism, which might be associated with the stimulation of the SIRT1/AMPK pathway.

Dietary polyphenols for management of rheumatoid arthritis: Pharmacotherapy and novel delivery systems

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic, complex, systemic autoimmune disease causing chronic inflammation, swelling, and pain. It affects pulmonary and ocular physiology, gastrointestinal disturbance, skeletal disorders, and renal malfunctioning. Although conventional and biological drugs available to treat RA are potent and effective, they lead to life-threatening side effects and patient discomfort. Hence, alternative therapies are explored for their treatment which is safe, effective, and economical. Herbal drugs are widely used as an alternative therapy and some medicinal plants, especially dietary polyphenols proved their efficacy in treating RA. Polyphenols are secondary metabolites of plants possessing several pharmacological actions. They exert anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory and anti-rheumatoid activity by modulating tumor necrosis factor, mitogen-activated protein kinase, nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells, and c-Jun N-terminal kinases. Thus, polyphenols could be a promising option for the management of RA. Unfortunately, polyphenols suffer from poor bioavailability due to their physicochemical properties and incorporation into novel delivery systems such as liposomes, nanoparticles, nanoemulsions, micelles improved their oral bioavailability. This review article summarizes dietary polyphenols, their pharmacological actions and novel delivery systems for the treatment of RA. Nevertheless, the commercial translation of polyphenols could be only possible after establishing their safety profile and successful clinical trials.

Phytochemically Derived Zingerone Nanoparticles Inhibit Cell Proliferation, Invasion and Metastasis in Human Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma

Due to its aggressiveness and high mortality rate, oral cancer still represents a tough challenge for current cancer therapeutics. Similar to other carcinomas, cancerous invasion and metastasis are the most important prognostic factors and the main obstacles to therapy for human oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC). Fortunately, with the rise of the nanotechnical era and innovative nanomaterial fabrication, nanomaterials are widely used in biomedicine, cancer therapeutics, and chemoprevention. Recently, phytochemical substances have attracted increasing interest as adjuvants to conventional cancer therapy. The ginger phenolic compound zingerone, a multitarget pharmacological and bioactive phytochemical, possesses potent anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anticancer activities. In our previous study, we generated phytochemically derived zingerone nanoparticles (NPs), and documented their superior antitumorigenic effect on human hepatoma cells. In the present study, we further investigated the effects of zingerone NPs on inhibiting the invasiveness and metastasis of human OSCC cell lines. Zingerone NPs elicited significant cytotoxicity in three OSCC cell lines compared to zingerone. Moreover, the lower dose of zingerone NPs (25 µM) markedly inhibited colony formation and colony survival by at least five-fold compared to zingerone treatment. Additionally, zingerone NPs significantly attenuated cell motility and invasiveness. In terms of the signaling mechanism, we determined that the zingerone NP-mediated downregulation of Akt signaling played an important role in the inhibition of cell viability and cell motility. Zingerone NPs inhibited matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) activity, which was highly correlated with the attenuation of cell migration and cell invasion. By further detecting the roles of zingerone NPs in epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT), we observed that zingerone NPs substantially altered the levels of EMT-related markers by decreasing the levels of the mesenchymal markers, N-cadherin and vimentin, rather than the epithelial proteins, ZO-1 and E-cadherin, compared with zingerone. In conclusion, as novel and efficient phytochemically derived nanoparticles, zingerone NPs may serve as a potent adjuvant to protect against cell invasion and metastasis, which will provide a beneficial strategy for future applications in chemoprevention and conventional therapeutics in OSCC treatment.

Chemical, Pharmacological and Computerized Molecular Analysis of Stem's Extracts of Bauhinia scandens L. Provide Insights into the Management of Diarrheal and Microbial Infections

Bauhinia scandens L. (Family: Fabaceae) is commonly used to treat cholera, diarrhea, asthma, and diabetes disorder in integrative medicine. This study aimed to screen the presence of phytochemicals (preliminary and UPLC-QTOF–M.S. analysis) and to examine the pharmacological activities of Bauhinia scandens L. stems (MEBS) stem extracts. Besides, in silico study was also implemented to elucidate the binding affinity and drug capability of the selected phytochemicals. In vivo anti diarrheal activity was investigated in mice models. In vitro, antibacterial and antifungal properties of MEBS against several pathogenic strains were evaluated using the disc diffusion method. In addition, in silico study has been employed using Discovery studio 2020, UCFS Chimera, PyRx autodock vina, and online tools. In the anti-diarrheal investigation, MEBS showed a significant dose-dependent inhibition rate in all three methods. The antibacterial and antifungal screening showed a remarkable zone of inhibition, of the diameter 14–26 mm and 12–28 mm, by MEBS. The present study revealed that MEBS has remarkable anti-diarrheal potential and is highly effective in wide-spectrum bacterial and fungal strains. Moreover, the in silico study validated the results of biological screenings. To conclude, MEBS is presumed to be a good source in treating diarrhea, bacterial and fungal infections.

Chemical, biological and protein-receptor binding profiling of Bauhinia scandens L. stems provide new insights into the management of pain, inflammation, pyrexia and thrombosis

Bauhinia scandens L. (Family, Fabaceae) is a medicinal plant used for conventional and societal medication in Ayurveda. The present study has been conducted to screen the chemical, pharmacological and biochemical potentiality of the methanol extracts of B. scandens stems (MEBS) along with its related fractions including carbon tetrachloride (CTBS), di-chloromethane (DMBS) and n-butanol (BTBS). UPLC-QTOF-MS has been implemented to analyze the chemical compounds of the methanol extracts of Bauhinia scandens stems. Additionally, antinociceptive and anti-inflammatory effects were performed by following the acetic acid-induced writhing test and formalin-mediated paw licking test in the mice model. The antipyretic investigation was performed by Brewer Yeast induced pyrexia method. The clot lysis method was implemented to screen the thrombolytic activity in human serum. Besides, the in silico study was performed for the five selected chemical compounds of Bauhinia scandens, found by UPLC-QTOF-MS By using Discover Studio 2020, UCSF Chimera, PyRx autodock vina and online tools. The MEBS and its fractions exhibited remarkable inhibition in dose dependant manner in the antinociceptive and antiinflammatory investigations. The antipyretic results of MEBS and DMBS were close to the standard drug indomethacin. Investigation of the thrombolytic effect of MEBS, CTBS, DMBS, and BTBS revealed notable clot-lytic potentials. Besides, the phenolic compounds of the plant extracts revealed strong binding affinity to the COX-1, COX-2, mPGES-1 and plasminogen activator enzymes. To recapitulate, based on the research work, Bauhinia scandens L. stem and its phytochemicals can be considered as prospective wellsprings for novel drug development and discovery by future researchers.

The effects of co-administration of artichoke leaf extract supplementation with metformin and vitamin E in patients with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease: A randomized clinical trial

Medicinal plants are widely used as a complementary therapy to treat complex diseases, such as nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Therefore, this study was done to investigate the effect of co-administration of artichoke leaf extract supplement (ALES) with conventional medicines on patients with NAFLD. The clinical trial was based on patients randomly divided into three groups involving metformin-vitamin E (ME), metformin-ALES (MA), and vitamin E-ALES (EA). The effectiveness of treatment in the treated groups was evaluated using liver ultrasonography and biochemical markers. After 12 weeks of treatment, the results showed that the rate of alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) was significantly reduced within all the study groups (p < .05). Liver ultrasonographic findings revealed that the rate of fat accumulation in liver of patients was decreased significantly within all the study groups and it was increased in the subjects with grade 0 fatty liver (without fat accumulation) in the MA and EA groups by 23.3 and 17.2%, respectively. In summary, the results of the present study showed that the concomitant use of ALES with metformin and vitamin E can have beneficial effects on amelioration of complications in patients with NAFLD. However, larger-scale clinical trial studies are required in this regard.

Proanthocyanidins and Where to Find Them: A Meta-Analytic Approach to Investigate Their Chemistry, Biosynthesis, Distribution, and Effect on Human Health

Proanthocyanidins (PACs) are a class of polyphenolic compounds that are attracting considerable interest in the nutraceutical field due to their potential health benefits. However, knowledge about the chemistry, biosynthesis, and distribution of PACs is limited. This review summarizes the main chemical characteristics and biosynthetic pathways and the main analytical methods aimed at their identification and quantification in raw plant matrices. Furthermore, meta-analytic approaches were used to identify the main plant sources in which PACs were contained and to investigate their potential effect on human health. In particular, a cluster analysis identified PACs in 35 different plant families and 60 different plant parts normally consumed in the human diet. On the other hand, a literature search, coupled with forest plot analyses, highlighted how PACs can be actively involved in both local and systemic effects. Finally, the potential mechanisms of action through which PACs may impact human health were investigated, focusing on their systemic hypoglycemic and lipid-lowering effects and their local anti-inflammatory actions on the intestinal epithelium. Overall, this review may be considered a complete report in which chemical, biosynthetic, ecological, and pharmacological aspects of PACs are discussed.

Phytochemicals as modifiers of gut microbial communities

A healthy gut microbiota (GM) is paramount for a healthy lifestyle. Alterations of the GM have been involved in the aetiology of several chronic diseases, including obesity and type 2 diabetes, as well as cardiovascular and neurodegenerative diseases. In pathological conditions, the diversity of the GM is commonly reduced or altered, often toward an increased Firmicutes/Bacteroidetes ratio. The colonic fermentation of dietary fiber has shown to stimulate the fraction of bacteria purported to have beneficial health effects, acting as prebiotics, and to increase the production of short chain fatty acids, e.g. propionate and butyrate, while also improving gut epithelium integrity such as tight junction functionality. However, a variety of phytochemicals, often associated with dietary fiber, have also been proposed to modulate the GM. Many phytochemicals possess antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that may positively affect the GM, including polyphenols, carotenoids, phytosterols/phytostanols, lignans, alkaloids, glucosinolates and terpenes. Some polyphenols may act as prebiotics, while carotenoids have been shown to alter immunoglobulin A expression, an important factor for bacteria colonization. Other phytochemicals may interact with the mucosa, another important factor for colonization, and prevent its degradation. Certain polyphenols have shown to influence bacterial communication, interacting with quorum sensing. Finally, phytochemicals can be metabolized in the gut into bioactive constituents, e.g. equol from daidzein and enterolactone from secoisolariciresinol, while bacteria can use glycosides for energy. In this review, we strive to highlight the potential interactions between prominent phytochemicals and health benefits related to the GM, emphasizing their potential as adjuvant strategies for GM-related diseases.

Botanicals Reduce Circulating Concentrations of Cholesterol and Triglycerides and Work Synergistically With Arachidonic Acid to Reduce Inflammatory Cytokines in Cats

Forty Eight cats were used to measure the effects of feeding a traditional adult cat food supplemented with either arachidonic acid (ARA), a botanical mix (botanicals) or both on circulating biochemical parameters and inflammatory cytokines. The cats were healthy adults (mean age, 3.0; range, 1.3-6.4 years). The adult cats were fed one of four foods (n = 12 per group) for 84 days (dietary changes reported as fed): a traditional adult cat food (control, 0.05% ARA no added botanicals), or control food supplemented with arachidonic acid from chicken liver (0.13% ARA when supplemented), control food supplemented with botanicals (green tea 0.5%, fenugreek 0.05%, and tulsi 0.003%), and control plus ARA (0.13% as fed) with botanicals (green tea 0.5%, fenugreek 0.05%, and tulsi 0.003%). Response variables were compared between treatments: initially, and at 84 days (end of study). The measurements were standard complete blood counts and chemistries as well as circulating cytokines. Botanical inclusion reduced (P < 0.05) circulating cholesterol and triglycerides while arachidonic acid increased (P < 0.05) their concentrations. The pro-inflammatory cytokines MCP-1, TNFα, SDF-1, Flt3L, IL-8, IL-12p40, IL-13, and IL-18 were all reduced (P < 0.05) in cats after consuming the ARA + botanicals food for 84 days with little change after consuming the other foods. Therefore, this combination of ARA and botanicals may be of value in reducing inflammation.

Flavonoids in the Treatment of Diabetes: Clinical Outcomes and Mechanism to Ameliorate Blood Glucose Levels

BACKGROUND

For thousands of years, natural food products have been used as a medicine for treating diseases that affect the human body, including diabetes mellitus (DM). Lately, several investigations have been performed on the flavonoid derivatives of plant origin, and their biological activity has been extensively studied.

METHODS

Given our need to know more mechanisms for treating DM, we performed a thorough research review on treating diabetes mellitus based on flavonoids, their therapeutic potential, and biological action.

RESULTS

Flavonoids reduce complications in addition to their vital role as effective supplements for preventing diabetes mellitus by regulating glucose metabolism, lipid profile, liver enzyme activity, a protein kinase inhibitor, PPAR, and AMPK with NF-κB.

CONCLUSION

The articles that we reviewed showed the positive role of flavonoids, which in a certain way reduce diabetes, but their side effects still need to be studied further.This review is focused on describing the different types of dietary flavonoids along with their mechanisms of reducing blood glucose and enhancing insulin sensitivity, as well as their side effects.

Possible Therapeutic Use of Natural Compounds Against COVID-19

The outbreak of severe acute respiratory syndrome-coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) has led to coronavirus disease-19 (COVID-19); a pandemic disease that has resulted in devastating social, economic, morbidity and mortality burdens. SARS-CoV-2 infects cells following receptor-mediated endocytosis and priming by cellular proteases. Following uptake, SARS-CoV-2 replicates in autophagosome-like structures in the cytosol following its escape from endolysosomes. Accordingly, the greater endolysosome pathway including autophagosomes and the mTOR sensor may be targets for therapeutic interventions against SARS-CoV-2 infection and COVID-19 pathogenesis. Naturally existing compounds (phytochemicals) through their actions on endolysosomes and mTOR signaling pathways might provide therapeutic relief against COVID-19. Here, we discuss evidence that some natural compounds through actions on the greater endolysosome system can inhibit SARS-CoV-2 infectivity and thereby might be repurposed for use against COVID-19.

The potential role of sesquiterpene lactones isolated from medicinal plants in the treatment of the metabolic syndrome - A review

Metabolic syndrome comprises a cluster of metabolic disorders related to the development of cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes mellitus. In latter years, plant secondary metabolites have become of special interest because of their potential role in preventing and managing metabolic syndrome. Sesquiterpene lactones constitute a large and diverse group of biologically active compounds widely distributed in several medicinal plants used for the treatment of metabolic disorders. The structural diversity and the broad spectrum of biological activities of these compounds drew significant interests in the pharmacological applications. This review describes selected sesquiterpene lactones that have been experimentally validated for their biological activities related to risk factors of metabolic syndrome, together with their mechanisms of action. The potential beneficial effects of sesquiterpene lactones discussed in this review demonstrate that these substances represent remarkable compounds with a diversity of molecular structure and high biological activity, providing new insights into the possible role in metabolic syndrome management.

Evaluation of anti-obesity potential of aqueous extract of Achyranthes aspera Linn. in high fat diet induced obese rats

Background

Obesity, reached epidemic proportions globally is often associated with life threatening comorbidities. The unavailability of safe and effective long term medications for obesity in modern pharmacotherapy forces the scientific community to explore the potential of Ayurvedic traditional healers as they are considered safe and effective.

Objective

To explore the anti-obesity potential of aqueous extract of aerial parts ofAchyranthes asperaL. (AEAA), a traditional healer in high fat diet (HFD) induced obese rats.

Methods

AEAA was prepared and subjected to in-vitro pancreatic lipase inhibition assay and in-vivo anti-obesity studies. For in-vivo studies, HFD fed obese prone Wistar albino rats were divided into five experimental groups (Group II to VI): animals fed with standard pellet chow served as normal control (Group I) while, animals continued with HFD alone served as obese control (Group II); Group III, IV and V were administered AEAA at a dose of 100, 200 and 300 mg/kg b.w. respectively along with HFD; and animals administered orlistat (30 mg/kg bw) along with HFD served as standard control (Group VI). All the drugs were administered orally once a day for a period of 60 days. At the end of the experimental period various physical, biochemical and histopathological observations were made.

Results

In-vitro studies showed AEAA partially but not significantly inhibited the activity of pancreatic lipase. Data of in-vivo studies revealed, significant reduction in body weights, fat pad weights and organ weights upon AEAA treatment. Elevated levels of glucose, insulin, leptin, lipid profiles and antioxidant status were also brought back to normal.

Conclusion

The obtained results clearly suggested that AEAA possess pronounced anti-obesity potential.

Multiple functions of policosanol in elderly patients with dyslipidemia

OBJECTIVE

To determine the multiple functions of policosanol in elderly dyslipidemia patients.Methodology: There were 294 elderly dyslipidemia patients enrolled into this clinical study. They were randomly divided into four groups, as follows: 20 mg policosanol (group A, n = 64); 10 mg policosanol (group B, n = 72); 20 mg atorvastatin (group C, n = 91); and 10 mg policosanol + 20 mg atorvastatin (group D, n = 62). Plasma platelet count, platelet aggregation rate, circulating endothelial cell (CEC) count, high sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP), and carotid intima-media thickness (IMT) were measured before the study (week 0) and at weeks 12, 24, and 52.

RESULTS

In group A, the platelet aggregation rate caused by adenosine diphosphate (ADP) after treatment was significantly decreased compared with before treatment (48.79% ± 20.29% vs. 40.37% ± 23.56%), but the arachidonic acid (AA)-induced platelet aggregation rates were similar. The platelet aggregation rates induced by AA and ADP in groups B, C, and D did not change significantly. CEC counts and hs-CRP and homocysteine levels in all groups after treatment were significantly lower compared with before treatment, but carotid IMTs were similar.

CONCLUSION

Policosanol regulates blood lipid levels and improves endothelial cell function, and it could delay the progress of atherosclerosis.Trial registration number: ChiCTR-RRC-17013396 (retrospectively registered).

Gastrointestinal Disorders and Metabolic Syndrome: Dysbiosis as a Key Link and Common Bioactive Dietary Components Useful for their Treatment

Gastrointestinal (GI) diseases, which include gastrointestinal reflux disease, gastric ulceration, inflammatory bowel disease, and other functional GI disorders, have become prevalent in a large part of the world population. Metabolic syndrome (MS) is cluster of disorders including obesity, hyperglycemia, hyperlipidemia, and hypertension, and is associated with high rate of morbidity and mortality. Gut dysbiosis is one of the contributing factors to the pathogenesis of both GI disorder and MS, and restoration of normal flora can provide a potential protective approach in both these conditions. Bioactive dietary components are known to play a significant role in the maintenance of health and wellness, as they have the potential to modify risk factors for a large number of serious disorders. Different classes of functional dietary components, such as dietary fibers, probiotics, prebiotics, polyunsaturated fatty acids, polyphenols, and spices, possess positive impacts on human health and can be useful as alternative treatments for GI disorders and metabolic dysregulation, as they can modify the risk factors associated with these pathologies. Their regular intake in sufficient amounts also aids in the restoration of normal intestinal flora, resulting in positive regulation of insulin signaling, metabolic pathways and immune responses, and reduction of low-grade chronic inflammation. This review is designed to focus on the health benefits of bioactive dietary components, with the aim of preventing the development or halting the progression of GI disorders and MS through an improvement of the most important risk factors including gut dysbiosis.