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Mir RA, Tyagi A, Hussain SJ, Almalki MA, Zeyad MT, Deshmukh R, Ali S. Saffron, a Potential Bridge between Nutrition and Disease Therapeutics: Global Health Challenges and Therapeutic Opportunities. PLANTS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2024; 13:1467. [PMID: 38891276 PMCID: PMC11174376 DOI: 10.3390/plants13111467] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2024] [Revised: 04/12/2024] [Accepted: 05/23/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024]
Abstract
Plants are an important source of essential bioactive compounds that not only have a beneficial role in human health and nutrition but also act as drivers for shaping gut microbiome. However, the mechanism of their functional attributes is not fully understood despite their significance. One such important plant is Crocus sativus, also known as saffron, which possesses huge medicinal, nutritional, and industrial applications like food and cosmetics. The importance of this plant is grossly attributed to its incredible bioactive constituents such as crocins, crocetin, safranal, picrocrocin, and glycosides. These bioactive compounds possess a wide range of therapeutic activities against multiple human ailments. Since a huge number of studies have revealed negative unwanted side effects of modern-day drugs, the scientific communities at the global level are investigating a large number of medicinal plants to explore natural products as the best alternatives. Taken into consideration, the available research findings indicate that saffron has a huge scope to be further explored to establish alternative natural-product-based drugs for health benefits. In this review, we are providing an update on the role of bioactive compounds of saffron as therapeutic agents (human disorders and antimicrobial activity) and its nutritional values. We also highlighted the role of omics and metabolic engineering tools for increasing the content of key saffron bioactive molecules for its mass production. Finally, pre-clinical and clinical studies seem to be necessary to establish its therapeutic potential against human diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rakeeb Ahmad Mir
- Department of Biotechnology, School of Life Sciences, Central University of Kashmir, Ganderbal 191201, India
| | - Anshika Tyagi
- Department of Biotechnology, Yeungnam University, Gyeongsan 38541, Republic of Korea;
| | - Sofi Javed Hussain
- Department of Botany, Central University of Kashmir, Ganderbal 191201, India;
| | - Mohammed A. Almalki
- Department of Biological Sciences, College of Science, King Faisal University, Al-Ahsa 31982, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mohammad Tarique Zeyad
- Department of Agricultural Microbiology, Faculty of Agriculture Sciences, Aligarh Muslim University, Aligarh 202002, India;
| | - Rupesh Deshmukh
- Department of Biotechnology, Central University of Haryana, Mahendragarh 123031, India;
| | - Sajad Ali
- Department of Biotechnology, Yeungnam University, Gyeongsan 38541, Republic of Korea;
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Han S, Cao Y, Wu X, Xu J, Nie Z, Qiu Y. New horizons for the study of saffron (Crocus sativus L.) and its active ingredients in the management of neurological and psychiatric disorders: A systematic review of clinical evidence and mechanisms. Phytother Res 2024; 38:2276-2302. [PMID: 38424688 DOI: 10.1002/ptr.8110] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2023] [Revised: 11/27/2023] [Accepted: 12/16/2023] [Indexed: 03/02/2024]
Abstract
Saffron (Crocus sativus), as an herbal medicine, has been extensively investigated for treating neurological and psychiatric disorders. This systematic review aimed to assess the overall effects of saffron on cognition, depression, anxiety, sleep disorders, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). Relevant randomized controlled trials (RCTs) were identified by searching PubMed/Medline, Web of Science, and Clinical Trials databases up to June 2023 according to search terms and inclusion criteria. The participants were either healthy or suffering from some diseases, including neurological and psychiatric disorders, and consumed saffron or its extracts as an intervention. The risk of bias was assessed according to the Cochrane guidelines, and the PRISMA statement was followed. The meta-analysis was performed using RevMan and STATA software. A random-effects or fixed-effects model was used to calculate the pooled effect sizes. Forty-six RCTs were enrolled, and the duration of these trials ranged from 4 to 48 weeks with saffron or its extracts, both alone or in combination with conventional drugs. Saffron was more effective than placebo in improving cognition, depression with an overall effect size of -4.26 (95% CI: -5.76, -2.77), anxiety of -3.75 (95% CI: -5.83, -1.67), and sleep disorders of -1.91 (95% CI: -2.88, -0.93). Saffron was non-inferior to conventional drugs for treating cognitive disorders, depression, anxiety, ADHD, and OCD, and it exhibited good tolerance with few side effects. Saffron may exert protective roles for neurological and psychiatric disorders and represents a relatively favorable and safe treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shufen Han
- Department of Nutrition and Toxicology, School of Public Health, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, People's Republic of China
| | - Yifei Cao
- Department of Nutrition and Toxicology, School of Public Health, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, People's Republic of China
| | - Xingrong Wu
- Male Department of General Psychiatry, Shanxi Provincial Mental Health Center and Taiyuan Psychiatric Hospital, Taiyuan, Shanxi, People's Republic of China
| | - Jiaoyang Xu
- Department of Nutrition and Toxicology, School of Public Health, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, People's Republic of China
| | - Zizheng Nie
- Department of Nutrition and Toxicology, School of Public Health, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, People's Republic of China
| | - Yue Qiu
- Department of Nutrition and Toxicology, School of Public Health, Hangzhou Normal University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, People's Republic of China
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Hamedani SG, Pourmasoumi M, Zarifi SH, Askari G, Jamialahmadi T, Bagherniya M, Sahebkar A. Therapeutic effects of saffron and its components on neurodegenerative diseases. Heliyon 2024; 10:e24334. [PMID: 38298664 PMCID: PMC10827773 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e24334] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2023] [Revised: 01/05/2024] [Accepted: 01/07/2024] [Indexed: 02/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Due to an increase in the number of older people in recent years, neurodegenerative diseases as the most important age-related neurological disorders are considered as a great threat to human health. The treatment strategies for these disorders are symptomatic and there is no known definitive treatment; however, recently, several studies have investigated the effectiveness of some herbs and their components in limiting the progression and treatment of neurodegenerative disorders. In this study, we searched Medline (via PubMed), Scopus, Science Direct, and Google Scholar databases. The keywords used in the search were: saffron [title/abstract] or (saffron compound [title/abstract]) and (neurological disorders [title/abstract]), publication date range (2010-2023), and language (English). After applying inclusion and exclusion criteria, 30 articles remained. Of the 30 articles included in the study, six studies on the treatment of neurodegenerative disorders by saffron and its components were in the clinical trial phase, and 24 studies were in the preclinical phase. Saffron and its compounds can play an important role in inhibiting neuroinflammation and excitotoxic pathways, modulating autophagy and apoptosis, attenuating oxidative damage, and activating defensive antioxidant enzymes, resulting in neuroprotection against neurodegenerative diseases. Therefore, this study aimed to review the studies on the effects of saffron and its compounds on the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sahar Golpour- Hamedani
- Department of Community Nutrition, School of Nutrition and Food Science, Isfahan University of medical science, Iran
| | - Makan Pourmasoumi
- Gastrointestinal & Liver Diseases Research Center, Guilan University of Medical Sciences, Rasht, Iran
| | | | - Gholamreza Askari
- Nutrition and Food Security Research Center and Department of Community Nutrition, School of Nutrition and Food Science, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
- Anesthesia and Critical Care Research Center, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Tannaz Jamialahmadi
- Medical Toxicology Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Mohammad Bagherniya
- Nutrition and Food Security Research Center and Department of Community Nutrition, School of Nutrition and Food Science, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
- Anesthesia and Critical Care Research Center, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Amirhossein Sahebkar
- Biotechnology Research Center, Pharmaceutical Technology Institute, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
- Applied Biomedical Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
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Phukan BC, Roy R, Gahatraj I, Bhattacharya P, Borah A. Therapeutic considerations of bioactive compounds in Alzheimer's disease and Parkinson's disease: Dissecting the molecular pathways. Phytother Res 2023; 37:5657-5699. [PMID: 37823581 DOI: 10.1002/ptr.8012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2023] [Revised: 08/22/2023] [Accepted: 08/24/2023] [Indexed: 10/13/2023]
Abstract
Leading neurodegenerative diseases Alzheimer's disease (AD) and Parkinson's disease (PD) are characterized by the impairment of memory and motor functions, respectively. Despite several breakthroughs, there exists a lack of disease-modifying treatment strategies for these diseases, as the available drugs provide symptomatic relief and bring along side effects. Bioactive compounds are reported to bear neuroprotective properties with minimal toxicity, however, a detailed elucidation of their modes of neuroprotection is lacking. The review elucidates the neuroprotective mechanism(s) of some of the major phyto-compounds in pre-clinical and clinical studies of AD and PD to understand their potential in combating these diseases. Curcumin, eugenol, resveratrol, baicalein, sesamol and so on have proved efficient in countering the pathological hallmarks of AD and PD. Curcumin, resveratrol, caffeine and so on have reached the clinical phases of these diseases, while aromadendrin, delphinidin, cyanidin and xanthohumol are yet to be extensively explored in pre-clinical phases. The review highlights the need for extensive investigation of these compounds in the clinical stages of these diseases so as to utilize their disease-modifying abilities in the real field of treatment. Moreover, poor pharmacokinetic properties of natural compounds are constraints to their therapeutic yields and this review suggests a plausible contribution of nanotechnology in overcoming these limitations.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Rubina Roy
- Department of Life Science and Bioinformatics, Assam University, Silchar, Assam, India
| | - Indira Gahatraj
- Department of Life Science and Bioinformatics, Assam University, Silchar, Assam, India
| | - Pallab Bhattacharya
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research (NIPER), Gandhinagar, Gujarat, India
| | - Anupom Borah
- Department of Life Science and Bioinformatics, Assam University, Silchar, Assam, India
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Faridi N, Sanjari-Pour M, Wang P, Bathaie SZ. The Effect of Ultrasonication on the Fibrillar/ Oligomeric Structures of Aβ 1-42 at Different Concentrations. Protein J 2023; 42:575-585. [PMID: 37634212 PMCID: PMC10480282 DOI: 10.1007/s10930-023-10138-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/10/2023] [Indexed: 08/29/2023]
Abstract
The number of disease states linked the aberrant regular protein conformations to oligomers and amyloid fibrils. Amyloid beta 1-42 (Aβ1-42) peptide is very hydrophobic and quickly forms the β-rich structure and fibrillar protein aggregates in some solutions and buffer conditions. Ultrasonication pulses can disrupt amyloid fibrils to smaller fragments and produce Aβ1-42 peptides of different sizes and oligomers. Herein, we investigated the effects of buffer and ultrasonication on Aβ1-42 structure at low and high concentrations. After ultrasonication, the Western blot results showed that Aβ1-42 fibrils were disaggregated into different sizes. The transmission electron microscopy results indicated Aβ1-42 at low concentration (25 µM) in Ham's/F12 phenol red-free culture medium formed short-size fragments and oligomers. In comparison, Aβ1-42 at higher concentration (100 µM) formed fibrils that break down into smaller fragments after ultrasonication. However, after regrowth, it formed mature fibrils again. Cell viability assay indicated that Aβ1-42 oligomers formed at a low concentration (25 µM) were more toxic to PC12 cells than other forms. In conclusion, by applying ultrasonication pulses and controlling peptide concentration and buffer condition, we can rich Aβ1-42 aggregates with a particular size and molecular structure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nassim Faridi
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, P.O. Box. 14115-133, Tehran, Iran
- Institute for Natural Products and Medicinal Plants, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Maryam Sanjari-Pour
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, P.O. Box. 14115-133, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ping Wang
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou, 310014, People's Republic of China
| | - S Zahra Bathaie
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, P.O. Box. 14115-133, Tehran, Iran.
- Institute for Natural Products and Medicinal Plants, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran.
- UCLA-DOE Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA.
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Anaeigoudari F, Anaeigoudari A, Kheirkhah‐Vakilabad A. A review of therapeutic impacts of saffron (Crocus sativus L.) and its constituents. Physiol Rep 2023; 11:e15785. [PMID: 37537722 PMCID: PMC10400758 DOI: 10.14814/phy2.15785] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2023] [Revised: 07/18/2023] [Accepted: 07/19/2023] [Indexed: 08/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Application of herbal medicines in the treatment of diseases is in the center of attention of medical scientific societies. Saffron (Cricus sativus L.) is a medicinal plant belonging to the Iridaceae family with different therapeutic properties. The outcomes of human and animal experiments indicate that therapeutic impacts of saffron and its constituents, crocin, crocetin, and safranal, mainly are mediated via inhibiting the inflammatory reactions and scavenging free radicals. It has been suggested that saffron and crocin extracted from it also up-regulate the expression of sirtuin 1 (SIRT1) and nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2), down-regulate nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) signaling pathway and untimely improve the body organs dysfunction. Inhibition of inducible nitric oxide synthase and cyclooxygenase-2 (COX2) also is attributed to crocin. The current review narrates the therapeutic effects of saffron and its constituents on various body systems through looking for the scientific databases including Web of Science, PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar from the beginning of 2010 until the end of 2022.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fatemeh Anaeigoudari
- Student Research Committee, Afzalipour Faculty of MedicineKerman University of Medical SciencesKermanIran
| | - Akbar Anaeigoudari
- Department of Physiology, School of MedicineJiroft University of Medical SciencesJiroftIran
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Sanjari-Pour M, Faridi N, Wang P, Bathaie SZ. Protective effect of saffron carotenoids against amyloid beta-induced neurotoxicity in differentiated PC12 cells via the unfolded protein response and autophagy. Phytother Res 2023. [PMID: 36794286 DOI: 10.1002/ptr.7773] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2022] [Revised: 01/12/2023] [Accepted: 01/29/2023] [Indexed: 02/17/2023]
Abstract
The preventive effect of saffron against Alzheimer's disease (AD) has been reported. Herein, we studied the effect of Cro and Crt, saffron carotenoids, on the cellular model of AD. The MTT assay, flow cytometry, and elevated p-JNK, p-Bcl-2, and c-PARP indicated the AβOs-induced apoptosis in differentiated PC12 cells. Then, the protective effects of Cro/Crt on dPC12 cells against AβOs were investigated in preventive and therapeutic modalities. Starvation was used as a positive control. RT-PCR and Western blot results revealed the reduced eIF2α phosphorylation and increased spliced-XBP1, Beclin1, LC3II, and p62, which indicate the AβOs-induced autophagic flux defect, autophagosome accumulation, and apoptosis. Cro and Crt inhibited the JNK-Bcl-2-Beclin1 pathway. They altered Beclin1 and LC3II and decreased p62 expressions, leading cells to survival. Cro and Crt altered the autophagic flux by different mechanisms. So, Cro increased the rate of autophagosome degradation more than Crt, while Crt increased the rate of autophagosome formation more than Cro. The application of 4μ8C and chloroquine as the inhibitors of XBP1 and autophagy, respectively, confirmed these results. So, augmentation of the survival branches of UPR and autophagy is involved and may serve as an effective strategy to prevent the progression of AβOs toxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mariam Sanjari-Pour
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Nassim Faridi
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ping Wang
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou, China
| | - S Zahra Bathaie
- Institute for Natural Products and Medicinal Plants, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
- UCLA-DOE Institute, University of California Los Angeles (UCLA), Los Angeles, California, USA
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Pandey SN, Singh G, Semwal BC, Gupta G, Alharbi KS, Almalki WH, Albratty M, Najmi A, Meraya AM. Therapeutic approaches of nutraceuticals in the prevention of Alzheimer's disease. J Food Biochem 2022; 46:e14426. [PMID: 36169224 DOI: 10.1111/jfbc.14426] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2022] [Revised: 09/04/2022] [Accepted: 09/07/2022] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a neurological illness that causes memory loss over time. Currently, available pharmaceutical medicines and products are limited, and they have side effects at a higher price. Researchers and scientists have observed significant effects of nutraceuticals. Various preclinical and clinical studies were investigated for the Anti-Alzheimer's activity of nutraceuticals. The increasing ability of the pathogenesis of AD has led to the analysis of novel therapeutic targets, including the pathophysiological mechanisms and distinct cascades. So, current improvement will show the most adequate and prominent nutraceuticals and suggested concise mechanisms involving autophagy regulation, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, mitochondrial homeostasis, and others. The effects of nutraceuticals cannot be ignored; it is important to investigate high-quality clinical trials. Given the potential of nutraceuticals to battle AD as multi-targeted therapies, it's vital to evaluate them as viable lead compounds for drug discovery and development. To the best of the authors 'knowledge, modification of blood-brain barrier permeability, bioavailability, and aspects of randomized clinical trials should be considered in prospective investigations. PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS: Advancements in molecular diagnostic and fundamentals have implemented particular usefulness for drug evaluation. An excess of experimental knowledge occurs regarding the effect of nutraceuticals on AD. There are various preclinical and clinical studies that have been done on nutraceuticals. In addition, various substitute inhibit and enhance some pathophysiological levels associated with AD. Nutraceuticals are easily available and have fewer side effects with cost-effective advantages. However, further investigations and clinical trials are required to encourage its effect on disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Surya Nath Pandey
- Department of Pharmacology, University Institute of Pharma Sciences, Chandigarh University, Mohali, Punjab, India.,Department of Pharmacology, College of Pharmacy, Teerthanker Mahaveer University, Moradabad, UP, India
| | - Gurfateh Singh
- Department of Pharmacology, University Institute of Pharma Sciences, Chandigarh University, Mohali, Punjab, India
| | - Bhupesh Chander Semwal
- Division of Pharmacology, Institute of Pharmaceutical Research, GLA University, Mathura, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Gaurav Gupta
- School of Pharmacy, Suresh Gyan Vihar University, Jaipur, India.,Uttaranchal Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Uttaranchal University, Dehradun, India.,Department of Pharmacology, Saveetha Dental College, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences, Saveetha University, Chennai, India
| | - Khalid Saad Alharbi
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Pharmacy, Jouf University, Sakaka, Al-Jouf, Saudi Arabia
| | - Waleed Hassan Almalki
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Pharmacy, Umm Al-Qura University, Makkah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mohammed Albratty
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, College of Pharmacy, Jazan University, Jazan, Saudi Arabia
| | - Asim Najmi
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, College of Pharmacy, Jazan University, Jazan, Saudi Arabia
| | - Abdulkarim M Meraya
- Pharmacy Practice Research Unit, Department of Clinical Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, Jazan University, Jazan, Saudi Arabia
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Scuto M, Modafferi S, Rampulla F, Zimbone V, Tomasello M, Spano’ S, Ontario M, Palmeri A, Trovato Salinaro A, Siracusa R, Di Paola R, Cuzzocrea S, Calabrese E, Wenzel U, Calabrese V. Redox modulation of stress resilience by Crocus Sativus L. for potential neuroprotective and anti-neuroinflammatory applications in brain disorders: From molecular basis to therapy. Mech Ageing Dev 2022; 205:111686. [DOI: 10.1016/j.mad.2022.111686] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2022] [Revised: 05/18/2022] [Accepted: 05/18/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
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Soltanian B, Dehghan Shasaltaneh M, Riazi G, Masoudian N. Protective Effect of Low Dose of Methamphetamine on The Amount of Extracellular Glutamine in Primary Fetal Human Astrocytes Induced by Amyloid Beta. CELL JOURNAL 2022; 24:105-111. [PMID: 35451579 PMCID: PMC9035228 DOI: 10.22074/cellj.2022.7917] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2020] [Accepted: 02/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
Objective Change in astrocytes is one of the first pathological symptoms of Alzheimer's disease (AD). Understanding the signaling pathways in astrocytes can be a great help in treating of AD. This study aimed to investigate signaling pathway relations between low dose of methamphetamine (METH), the apoptosis, cell cycle, and glutamine (Gln) pathways in the activated astrocyte. Materials and Methods In this experimental study, the activated astrocyte cells were exposed to a low dose of METH (12.5 μM) which was determined by Thiazolyl blue tetrazolium bromide (MTT) method. The groups were: group 1 cells with Aβ, group 2 cells with METH, group 3 cells with METH after 24 hours of adding Aβ (Aβ+METH, treated group), group 4 cells with Aβ after 24 hours of adding METH (METH+Aβ, prevention group), and group 5 as the control. The Gln was assayed by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), and also the apoptosis, and cell cycle and BAX, BCL-X expression was evaluated. Results The amount of Gln was increased, and the value of late and early apoptosis was reduced in the treatment groups, and necrosis is decreased in the prevention group (group 4 compared to group 1). Moreover, it was revealed through cell cycle analysis that G2 in group 4 was reduced compared to group 1 and the expression of BAX, BAX/ BCL-X, and BCL-X in group 3 and group 4, was decreased and increased, respectively compared to group 1. Conclusion These findings suggest that perhaps a non-toxic dosage of METH (low dose) can reduce the amount of apoptosis and BAX expression and increase the expression of BCL-X. Furthermore, the cells are arrested in the G2 phase and can raise the amount of extracellular glutamine, which has a protective role in neuron cells. These findings may provide a new perspective to design a new drug with less toxic results.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bita Soltanian
- Department of Biology, College of Science, Damghan Branch, Islamic Azad University, Damghan, Iran
| | - Marzieh Dehghan Shasaltaneh
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, University of Zanjan, Zanjan, Iran,Department of BiologyFaculty of ScienceUniversity of ZanjanZanjanIran
| | - Gholamhossein Riazi
- Laboratory of Neuro-Organic Chemistry, Institute of Biochemistry and Biophysics (IBB), University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Nahid Masoudian
- Department of Biology, College of Science, Damghan Branch, Islamic Azad University, Damghan, Iran
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Kabir MT, Rahman MH, Shah M, Jamiruddin MR, Basak D, Al-Harrasi A, Bhatia S, Ashraf GM, Najda A, El-Kott AF, Mohamed HRH, Al-Malky HS, Germoush MO, Altyar AE, Alwafai EB, Ghaboura N, Abdel-Daim MM. Therapeutic promise of carotenoids as antioxidants and anti-inflammatory agents in neurodegenerative disorders. Biomed Pharmacother 2022; 146:112610. [PMID: 35062074 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2021.112610] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2021] [Revised: 12/26/2021] [Accepted: 12/26/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Neurodegenerative disorders (NDs) including Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, Huntington's disease, and multiple sclerosis have various disease-specific causal factors and pathological features. A very common characteristic of NDs is oxidative stress (OS), which takes place due to the elevated generation of reactive oxygen species during the progression of NDs. Furthermore, the pathological condition of NDs including an increased level of protein aggregates can further lead to chronic inflammation because of the microglial activation. Carotenoids (CTs) are naturally occurring pigments that play a significant role in averting brain disorders. More than 750 CTs are present in nature, and they are widely available in plants, microorganisms, and animals. CTs are accountable for the red, yellow, and orange pigments in several animals and plants, and these colors usually indicate various types of CTs. CTs exert various bioactive properties because of its characteristic structure, including anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Due to the protective properties of CTs, levels of CTs in the human body have been markedly linked with the prevention and treatment of multiple diseases including NDs. In this review, we have summarized the relationship between OS, neuroinflammation, and NDs. In addition, we have also particularly focused on the antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties of CTs in the management of NDs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Md Tanvir Kabir
- Department of Pharmacy, Brac University, 66 Mohakhali, Dhaka 1212, Bangladesh
| | - Md Habibur Rahman
- Department of Pharmacy, Southeast University, Banani, Dhaka 1213, Bangladesh; Department of Global Medical Science, Yonsei University Wonju College of Medicine, Yonsei University, Wonju 26426, Gangwon-do, South Korea.
| | - Muddaser Shah
- Department of Botany, Abdul Wali Khan University Mardan, Mardan 23200, Pakistan
| | | | - Debasish Basak
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Larkin University, Miami, FL 33169, United States
| | - Ahmed Al-Harrasi
- Natural & Medical Sciences Research Center, University of Nizwa, P.O. Box 33, 616 Birkat Al Mauz, Nizwa, Oman
| | - Saurabh Bhatia
- Natural & Medical Sciences Research Center, University of Nizwa, P.O. Box 33, 616 Birkat Al Mauz, Nizwa, Oman; School of Health Science, University of Petroleum and Energy Studies, Prem Nagar, Dehradun, Uttarakhand, 248007, India
| | - Ghulam Md Ashraf
- Pre-Clinical Research Unit, King Fahd Medical Research Center, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia; Department of Medical Laboratory Technology, Faculty of Applied Medical Sciences, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Agnieszka Najda
- Department of Vegetable and Herbal Crops, University of Life Sciences in Lublin, 50A Doświadczalna Street, 20-280 Lublin, Poland.
| | - Attalla F El-Kott
- Biology Department, Faculty of Science, King Khalid University, Abha 61421, Saudi Arabia; Zoology Department, College of Science, Damanhour University, Damanhour 22511, Egypt
| | - Hanan R H Mohamed
- Zoology Department, Faculty of Science, Cairo University, Giza 12613, Egypt
| | - Hamdan S Al-Malky
- Regional Drug Information Center, Ministry of Health, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mousa O Germoush
- Biology Department, College of Science, Jouf University, P.O. Box: 2014, Sakaka, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ahmed E Altyar
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, Faculty of Pharmacy, King Abdulaziz University, P.O. Box 80260, Jeddah 21589, Saudi Arabia
| | - Esraa B Alwafai
- Pharmacy Program, Batterjee Medical College, P.O. Box 6231, Jeddah 21442, Saudi Arabia
| | - Nehmat Ghaboura
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, Pharmacy Program, Batterjee Medical College, P.O. Box 6231, Jeddah 21442, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mohamed M Abdel-Daim
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Pharmacy Program, Batterjee Medical College, P.O. Box 6231, Jeddah 21442, Saudi Arabia; Pharmacology Department, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Suez Canal University, Ismailia 41522, Egypt.
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12
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El Midaoui A, Ghzaiel I, Vervandier-Fasseur D, Ksila M, Zarrouk A, Nury T, Khallouki F, El Hessni A, Ibrahimi SO, Latruffe N, Couture R, Kharoubi O, Brahmi F, Hammami S, Masmoudi-Kouki O, Hammami M, Ghrairi T, Vejux A, Lizard G. Saffron (Crocus sativus L.): A Source of Nutrients for Health and for the Treatment of Neuropsychiatric and Age-Related Diseases. Nutrients 2022; 14:nu14030597. [PMID: 35276955 PMCID: PMC8839854 DOI: 10.3390/nu14030597] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2022] [Revised: 01/25/2022] [Accepted: 01/27/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Saffron (Crocus sativus L.) is a medicinal plant, originally cultivated in the East and Middle East, and later in some Mediterranean countries. Saffron is obtained from the stigmas of the plant. Currently, the use of saffron is undergoing a revival. The medicinal virtues of saffron, its culinary use and its high added value have led to the clarification of its phytochemical profile and its biological and therapeutic characteristics. Saffron is rich in carotenoids and terpenes. The major products of saffron are crocins and crocetin (carotenoids) deriving from zeaxanthin, pirocrocin and safranal, which give it its taste and aroma, respectively. Saffron and its major compounds have powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties in vitro and in vivo. Anti-tumor properties have also been described. The goal of this review is to present the beneficial effects of saffron and its main constituent molecules on neuropsychiatric diseases (depression, anxiety and schizophrenia) as well as on the most frequent age-related diseases (cardiovascular, ocular and neurodegenerative diseases, as well as sarcopenia). Overall, the phytochemical profile of saffron confers many beneficial virtues on human health and, in particular, on the prevention of age-related diseases, which is a major asset reinforcing the interest for this medicinal plant.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adil El Midaoui
- Department of Pharmacology and Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Montreal, Montreal, QC H3C 3J7, Canada;
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences and Techniques Errachidia, Moulay Ismail University of Meknes, Errachidia 52000, Morocco;
- Laboratory of Genetics, Neuroendocrinology, and Biotechnology, Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, Ibn Tofail University, Kenitra 14020, Morocco; (A.E.H.); (S.O.I.)
- Correspondence: (A.E.M.); (G.L.); Tel.: +1-514-343-6111 (ext. 3320) (A.E.M.); +33-3-80-39-62-56 (G.L.)
| | - Imen Ghzaiel
- Team ‘Biochemistry of the Peroxisome, Inflammation and Lipid Metabolism’, University of Bourgogne Franche-Comte, 21000 Dijon, France; (I.G.); (M.K.); (T.N.); (N.L.); (A.V.)
- Lab-NAFS ‘Nutritio—Functional Food & Vascular Health’, Faculty of Medicine, LR12ES05, University Monastir, Monastir 5000, Tunisia; (A.Z.); (S.H.); (M.H.)
| | - Dominique Vervandier-Fasseur
- Team OCS, Institute of Molecular Chemistry (ICMUB UMR CNRS 6302), University of Bourgogne Franche-Comte, 21000 Dijon, France;
| | - Mohamed Ksila
- Team ‘Biochemistry of the Peroxisome, Inflammation and Lipid Metabolism’, University of Bourgogne Franche-Comte, 21000 Dijon, France; (I.G.); (M.K.); (T.N.); (N.L.); (A.V.)
- Laboratory Neurophysiology, Cellular Physiopathology and Valorisation of Biomolecules, (LR18ES03), Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, University Tunis El Manar, Tunis 2092, Tunisia; (O.M.-K.); (T.G.)
| | - Amira Zarrouk
- Lab-NAFS ‘Nutritio—Functional Food & Vascular Health’, Faculty of Medicine, LR12ES05, University Monastir, Monastir 5000, Tunisia; (A.Z.); (S.H.); (M.H.)
- Laboratory of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, University of Sousse, Sousse 4000, Tunisia
| | - Thomas Nury
- Team ‘Biochemistry of the Peroxisome, Inflammation and Lipid Metabolism’, University of Bourgogne Franche-Comte, 21000 Dijon, France; (I.G.); (M.K.); (T.N.); (N.L.); (A.V.)
| | - Farid Khallouki
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences and Techniques Errachidia, Moulay Ismail University of Meknes, Errachidia 52000, Morocco;
| | - Aboubaker El Hessni
- Laboratory of Genetics, Neuroendocrinology, and Biotechnology, Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, Ibn Tofail University, Kenitra 14020, Morocco; (A.E.H.); (S.O.I.)
| | - Salama Ouazzani Ibrahimi
- Laboratory of Genetics, Neuroendocrinology, and Biotechnology, Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, Ibn Tofail University, Kenitra 14020, Morocco; (A.E.H.); (S.O.I.)
| | - Norbert Latruffe
- Team ‘Biochemistry of the Peroxisome, Inflammation and Lipid Metabolism’, University of Bourgogne Franche-Comte, 21000 Dijon, France; (I.G.); (M.K.); (T.N.); (N.L.); (A.V.)
| | - Réjean Couture
- Department of Pharmacology and Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Montreal, Montreal, QC H3C 3J7, Canada;
| | - Omar Kharoubi
- Laboratory of Experimental Biotoxicology, Biodepollution and Phytoremediation, Faculty of Life and Natural Sciences, University Oran1 ABB, Oran 31000, Algeria;
| | - Fatiha Brahmi
- Laboratory Biomathématique, Biochimie, Biophysique et Scientométrie, Faculté des Sciences de la Nature et de la Vie, Université de Bejaia, Bejaia 06000, Algeria;
| | - Sonia Hammami
- Lab-NAFS ‘Nutritio—Functional Food & Vascular Health’, Faculty of Medicine, LR12ES05, University Monastir, Monastir 5000, Tunisia; (A.Z.); (S.H.); (M.H.)
| | - Olfa Masmoudi-Kouki
- Laboratory Neurophysiology, Cellular Physiopathology and Valorisation of Biomolecules, (LR18ES03), Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, University Tunis El Manar, Tunis 2092, Tunisia; (O.M.-K.); (T.G.)
| | - Mohamed Hammami
- Lab-NAFS ‘Nutritio—Functional Food & Vascular Health’, Faculty of Medicine, LR12ES05, University Monastir, Monastir 5000, Tunisia; (A.Z.); (S.H.); (M.H.)
| | - Taoufik Ghrairi
- Laboratory Neurophysiology, Cellular Physiopathology and Valorisation of Biomolecules, (LR18ES03), Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, University Tunis El Manar, Tunis 2092, Tunisia; (O.M.-K.); (T.G.)
| | - Anne Vejux
- Team ‘Biochemistry of the Peroxisome, Inflammation and Lipid Metabolism’, University of Bourgogne Franche-Comte, 21000 Dijon, France; (I.G.); (M.K.); (T.N.); (N.L.); (A.V.)
| | - Gérard Lizard
- Team ‘Biochemistry of the Peroxisome, Inflammation and Lipid Metabolism’, University of Bourgogne Franche-Comte, 21000 Dijon, France; (I.G.); (M.K.); (T.N.); (N.L.); (A.V.)
- Correspondence: (A.E.M.); (G.L.); Tel.: +1-514-343-6111 (ext. 3320) (A.E.M.); +33-3-80-39-62-56 (G.L.)
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13
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Saffari B, Amininasab M. Crocin Inhibits the Fibrillation of Human α-synuclein and Disassembles Mature Fibrils: Experimental Findings and Mechanistic Insights from Molecular Dynamics Simulation. ACS Chem Neurosci 2021; 12:4037-4057. [PMID: 34636232 DOI: 10.1021/acschemneuro.1c00379] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
The aggregation of human alpha-synuclein (hαS) is pivotally implicated in the development of most types of synucleinopathies. Molecules that can inhibit or reverse the aggregation process of amyloidogenic proteins have potential therapeutic value. The anti-aggregating activity of multiple carotenoid compounds has been reported over the past decades against a growing list of amyloidogenic polypeptides. Here, we aimed to determine whether crocin, the main carotenoid glycoside component of saffron, would inhibit hαS aggregation or could disassemble its preformed fibrils. By employing a series of biochemical and biophysical techniques, crocin was exhibited to inhibit hαS fibrillation in a dose-dependent fashion by stabilizing very early aggregation intermediates in off-pathway non-toxic conformations with little β-sheet content. We also observed that crocin at high concentrations could efficiently destabilize mature fibrils and disassemble them into seeding-incompetent intermediates by altering their β-sheet conformation and reshaping their structure. Our atomistic molecular dynamics (MD) simulations demonstrated that crocin molecules bind to both the non amyloid-β component (NAC) region and C-terminal domain of hαS. These interactions could thereby stabilize the autoinhibitory conformation of the protein and prevent it from adopting aggregation-prone structures. MD simulations further suggested that ligand molecules prefer to reside longitudinally along the fibril axis onto the edges of the inter-protofilament interface where they establish hydrogen and hydrophobic bonds with steric zipper stabilizing residues. These interactions turned out to destabilize hαS fibrils by altering the interstrand twist angles, increasing the rigidity of the fibril core, and elevating its radius of gyration. Our findings suggest the potential pharmaceutical implication of crocin in synucleinopathies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Babak Saffari
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, School of Biology, College of Science, University of Tehran, Tehran 14155-6455, Iran
| | - Mehriar Amininasab
- Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, School of Biology, College of Science, University of Tehran, Tehran 14155-6455, Iran
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14
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Manochkumar J, Doss CGP, El-Seedi HR, Efferth T, Ramamoorthy S. The neuroprotective potential of carotenoids in vitro and in vivo. PHYTOMEDICINE : INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PHYTOTHERAPY AND PHYTOPHARMACOLOGY 2021; 91:153676. [PMID: 34339943 DOI: 10.1016/j.phymed.2021.153676] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2021] [Revised: 06/26/2021] [Accepted: 07/14/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Despite advances in research on neurodegenerative diseases, the pathogenesis and treatment response of neurodegenerative diseases remain unclear. Recent studies revealed a significant role of carotenoids to treat neurodegenerative diseases. The aim of this study was to systematically review the neuroprotective potential of carotenoids in vivo and in vitro and the molecular mechanisms and pathological factors contributing to major neurodegenerative diseases (Alzheimer's disease, Huntington's disease, Parkinson's disease, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, and stroke). HYPOTHESIS Carotenoids as therapeutic molecules to target neurodegenerative diseases. RESULTS Aggregation of toxic proteins, mitochondrial dysfunction, oxidative stress, the excitotoxic pathway, and neuroinflammation were the major pathological factors contributing to the progression of neurodegenerative diseases. Furthermore, in vitro and in vivo studies supported the beneficiary role of carotenoids, namely lycopene, β-carotene, crocin, crocetin, lutein, fucoxanthin and astaxanthin in alleviating disease progression. These carotenoids provide neuroprotection by inhibition of neuro-inflammation, microglial activation, excitotoxic pathway, modulation of autophagy, attenuation of oxidative damage and activation of defensive antioxidant enzymes. Additionally, studies conducted on humans also demonstrated that dietary intake of carotenoids lowers the risk of neurodegenerative diseases. CONCLUSION Carotenoids may be used as drugs to prevent and treat neurodegenerative diseases. Although, the in vitro and in vivo results are encouraging, further well conducted clinical studies on humans are required to conclude about the full potential of neurodegenerative diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Janani Manochkumar
- School of Bio Sciences and Technology, VIT University, Vellore 632014, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - C George Priya Doss
- School of Bio Sciences and Technology, VIT University, Vellore 632014, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Hesham R El-Seedi
- Pharmacognosy, Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Uppsala University, Box 574, SE-75 123 Uppsala, Sweden; Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, Menoufia University, 32512 Shebin El-Koom, Egypt
| | - Thomas Efferth
- Department of Pharmaceutical Biology, Institute of Pharmaceutical and Biomedical Sciences, Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz, Germany
| | - Siva Ramamoorthy
- School of Bio Sciences and Technology, VIT University, Vellore 632014, Tamil Nadu, India.
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15
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Lewis JE, Poles J, Shaw DP, Karhu E, Khan SA, Lyons AE, Sacco SB, McDaniel HR. The effects of twenty-one nutrients and phytonutrients on cognitive function: A narrative review. J Clin Transl Res 2021; 7:575-620. [PMID: 34541370 PMCID: PMC8445631] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2021] [Revised: 06/17/2021] [Accepted: 07/09/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIM Brain health is becoming more important to the average person as the number of people with cognitive impairments, such as Alzheimer's disease (AD), is rising significantly. The current Food and Drug Administration-approved pharmacotherapeutics for dementia neither cure nor halt cognitive decline; they just delay the worsening cognitive impairment. This narrative review summarizes the effects of nutrients and phytonutrients on cognitive function. METHODS A comprehensive literature search of PubMed was performed to find clinical trials in humans that assessed the effects of nutrients and phytonutrients on cognitive function published in English between 2000 and 2021. Six independent reviewers evaluated the articles for inclusion in this review. RESULTS Ninety-six articles were summarized in this narrative review. In total 21 categories of nutrients and phytonutrients were included, i.e., α-lipoic acid, Bacopa monnieri, B vitamins, cholinergic precursors, vitamin D, vitamin E, Ginkgo biloba, ginseng, lion's mane mushroom, N-acetyl cysteine, omega-3 fatty acids, aloe polysaccharides, Rhodiola rosea, rosemary, saffron, tart cherries, turmeric, wild yam, Withania somnifera, xanthines, and zinc. Particular noteworthy effects on cognition included memory, recollection, attention, intelligence, vocabulary, recognition, response inhibition, arousal, performance enhancement, planning, creative thinking, reaction time, vigilance, task switching, orientation to time, place, and person, reading, writing, comprehension, accuracy, learning, information processing speed, executive function, mental flexibility, daily functioning, decrease in mental fatigue, and freedom from distractibility. Some nutrients and phytonutrients also improved mood and contentedness and reduced anxiety and the need for caregiving. These effects are not completely consistent or ubiquitous across all patient populations or health statuses. Adverse effects were minimal or nonexistent. CONCLUSION Due to the growing population of people with cognitive impairment and the lack of effective pharmacotherapeutics, it is prudent for those afflicted or their caregivers to find alternative treatments. Our narrative review shows that many of these nutrients and phytonutrients may be promising for treating some aspects of cognitive impairment, especially for people afflicted with AD. RELEVANCE FOR PATIENTS As demonstrated in a number of clinical trials, healthy adults and patients with various health challenges (e.g., AD, mild cognitive impairment, multiple sclerosis, and Parkinson's disease) exhibiting a wide range of severity in cognitive defects would be best served to consider multiple nutrients and phytonutrients to improve aspects of their cognitive function.
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Affiliation(s)
- John E. Lewis
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Jillian Poles
- Department of Exercise and Sport Science, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Delaney P. Shaw
- Institute of Human Nutrition, Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Elisa Karhu
- Department of Medicine, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Sher Ali Khan
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of New Mexico Health Sciences Center, Albuquerque, NM, USA
| | - Annabel E. Lyons
- School of Nursing and Health Studies, University of Miami, Coral Gables, FL, USA
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16
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Soltanian B, Dehghan Shasaltaneh M, Riazi GH, Masoudian N. Alteration of gene expression in reactive astrocytes induced by Aβ1-42 using low dose of methamphetamine. Mol Biol Rep 2021; 48:6103-6112. [PMID: 34374897 DOI: 10.1007/s11033-021-06629-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2021] [Accepted: 08/05/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a degenerative brain disorder. Due to the relationship between the functional loss of astrocytes and AD, the present study aims to evaluate the effects of the low dose of methamphetamine (METH) on primary fetal human astrocytes under a stress paradigm as a possible model for AD. METHODS AND RESULTS The groups in this study included Aβ (Group 1), METH (Group 2), Aβ + METH (METH after adding Aβ for 24 h) (Group 3 as treated group), METH + Aβ (Aβ after adding METH for 24 h) (Group 4 as prevention group), and control group. Then, the gene expression of Bax, Bcl-X, PKCα, GSK3β, and Cdk5 was evaluated. In addition, phosphorylated tau, p-GSK3β, GSK3β, and GSK3α proteins were assessed by western blotting. Further, cell cycle arrest and apoptosis were checked by flow cytometry and Hoechst staining. Based on the results, the expression of GSK3β, Cdk5, and PKCα genes decreased in the prevention group, while GSK3β and Cdk5 were amplified in the treatment group. Furthermore, the level of GSK3α and GSK3β proteins in the treatment group increased, while it decreased in the prevention group. Additionally, a decrease occurred in the percentage of necrosis and early apoptosis in the treatment and prevention groups. The results of the cell cycle indicated that G1 increased, while G2 decreased in the prevention group. CONCLUSION The pure form of METH can prevent from activating GSK-3β and CdK-5, as well as enhanced activity of PKCα to inhibit phosphorylated tau protein. Therefore, a low dose of METH may have a protective effect or reducing role in the pathway of tau production in reactive astrocytes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bita Soltanian
- Department of Biology, College of Science, Damghan Branch, Islamic Azad University, Damghan, Iran
| | | | - Gholam Hossein Riazi
- Laboratory of Neuro-Organic Chemistry, Institute of Biochemistry and Biophysics (IBB), University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Nahid Masoudian
- Department of Biology, College of Science, Damghan Branch, Islamic Azad University, Damghan, Iran
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17
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Inoue E, Suzuki T, Shimizu Y, Sudo K, Kawasaki H, Ishida N. Saffron ameliorated motor symptoms, short life span and retinal degeneration in Parkinson's disease fly models. Gene 2021; 799:145811. [PMID: 34224829 DOI: 10.1016/j.gene.2021.145811] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2021] [Revised: 06/17/2021] [Accepted: 06/30/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Parkinson's disease (PD) is a common neurodegenerative disorder with motor symptoms linked to the loss of dopaminergic neurons in the brain. α-Synuclein is an aggregation-prone neural protein that plays a role in the pathogenesis of PD. In our previous paper, we found that saffron; the stigma of Crocus sativus Linné (Iridaceae), and its constituents (crocin and crocetin) suppressed aggregation of α-synuclein and promoted the dissociation of α-synuclein fibrils in vitro. In this study, we investigated the effect of dietary saffron and its constituent, crocetin, in vivo on a fly PD model overexpressing several mutant α-synuclein in a tissue-specific manner. Saffron and crocetin significantly suppressed the decrease of climbing ability in the Drosophila overexpressing A30P (A30P fly PD model) or G51D (G51D fly PD model) mutated α-synuclein in neurons. Saffron and crocetin extended the life span in the G51D fly PD model. Saffron suppressed the rough-eyed phenotype and the dispersion of the size histogram of the ocular long axis in the eye of A30P fly PD model. Saffron had a cytoprotective effect on a human neuronal cell line with α-synuclein fibrils. These data showed that saffron and its constituent crocetin have protective effects on the progression of PD disease in animals in vivo and suggest that saffron and crocetin can be used to treat PD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eiji Inoue
- Tokyo Research Center, Kyushin Pharmaceutical Co, Ltd., Suginami 166-0012, Tokyo, Japan; Institute for Chronobiology, Foundation for Advancement of International Science (FAIS), Tsukuba, 305-0821 Ibaraki, Japan.
| | - Takahiro Suzuki
- Institute for Chronobiology, Foundation for Advancement of International Science (FAIS), Tsukuba, 305-0821 Ibaraki, Japan.
| | - Yasuharu Shimizu
- Tokyo Research Center, Kyushin Pharmaceutical Co, Ltd., Suginami 166-0012, Tokyo, Japan.
| | - Keiichi Sudo
- Tokyo Research Center, Kyushin Pharmaceutical Co, Ltd., Suginami 166-0012, Tokyo, Japan.
| | - Haruhisa Kawasaki
- Institute for Chronobiology, Foundation for Advancement of International Science (FAIS), Tsukuba, 305-0821 Ibaraki, Japan.
| | - Norio Ishida
- Institute for Chronobiology, Foundation for Advancement of International Science (FAIS), Tsukuba, 305-0821 Ibaraki, Japan.
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18
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Talebi M, Kakouri E, Talebi M, Tarantilis PA, Farkhondeh T, İlgün S, Pourbagher-Shahri AM, Samarghandian S. Nutraceuticals-based therapeutic approach: recent advances to combat pathogenesis of Alzheimer's disease. Expert Rev Neurother 2021; 21:625-642. [PMID: 33910446 DOI: 10.1080/14737175.2021.1923479] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Introduction: Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disease accompanying memory deficits. The available pharmaceutical care has some limitations mostly entailing side effects, shelf-life, and patient's compliance. The momentous implications of nutraceuticals in AD have attracted scientists. Several preclinical studies for the investigation of nutraceuticals have been conducted.Areas covered: This review focuses on the potential use of a nutraceuticals-based therapeutic approach to treat and prevent AD. Increasing knowledge of AD pathogenesis has led to the discovery of new therapeutic targets including pathophysiological mechanisms and various cascades. Hence, the present contribution will attend to the most popular and effective nutraceuticals with proposed brief mechanisms entailing antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, autophagy regulation, mitochondrial homeostasis, and more. Therefore, even though the effectiveness of nutraceuticals cannot be dismissed, it is essential to do further high-quality randomized clinical trials.Expert opinion: According to the potential of nutraceuticals to combat AD as multi-target directed drugs, there is critical importance to assess them as feasible lead compounds for drug discovery and development. To the best of the authors' knowledge, modification of blood-brain barrier permeability, bioavailability, and features of randomized clinical trials should be considered in prospective studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marjan Talebi
- Department of Pharmacognosy, School of Pharmacy, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Eleni Kakouri
- Department of Food Science and Human Nutrition, School of Food and Nutritional Sciences, Agricultural University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Mohsen Talebi
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Texas at Arlington, Arlington, Texas, United States.,Food Safety Net Services, San Antonio, Texas, United States
| | - Petros A Tarantilis
- Department of Food Science and Human Nutrition, School of Food and Nutritional Sciences, Agricultural University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Tahereh Farkhondeh
- Cardiovascular Diseases Research Center, Birjand University of Medical Sciences, Birjand, Iran.,Faculty of Pharmacy, Birjand University of Medical Sciences, Birjand, Iran
| | - Selen İlgün
- Department of Pharmaceutical Botany, Faculty of Pharmacy, Erciyes University, Kayseri, Turkey
| | - Ali Mohammad Pourbagher-Shahri
- Medical Toxicology and Drug Abuse Research Center (MTDRC), Faculty of Pharmacy, Birjand University of Medical Sciences (BUMS), Birjand, Iran
| | - Saeed Samarghandian
- Noncommunicable Diseases Research Center, Neyshabur University of Medical Sciences, Neyshabur, Iran
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Soheili M, Karimian M, Hamidi G, Salami M. Alzheimer's disease treatment: The share of herbal medicines. IRANIAN JOURNAL OF BASIC MEDICAL SCIENCES 2021; 24:123-135. [PMID: 33953850 PMCID: PMC8061323 DOI: 10.22038/ijbms.2020.50536.11512] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2020] [Accepted: 11/07/2020] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
One of the most frequent forms of dementia in neurological disorders is Alzheimer's disease (AD). It is a chronic neurodegenerative disease characterized by impaired learning and memory. Pathological symptoms as extracellular amyloid-beta (Aβ) plaques and intracellular accumulation of neurofibrillary tangles occur in AD. Due to the aging of the population and increased prevalence of AD, discovery of new therapeutic agents with the highest effectiveness and fewer side effect seems to be necessary. Numerous synthetic medicines such as tacrine, donepezil, galantamine, rivastigmine, memantine, glutathione, ascorbic acid, ubiquinone, ibuprofen, and ladostigil are routinely used for reduction of the symptoms and prevention of disease progression. Nowadays, herbal medicines have attracted popular attention for numerous beneficial effects with little side effects. Lavandula angustifolia, Ginkgo biloba, Melissa officinalis, Crocus sativus, Ginseng, Salvia miltiorrhiza, and Magnolia officinalis have been widely used for relief of symptoms of some neurological disorders. This paper reviews the therapeutic effects of phytomedicines with prominent effects against various factors implicated in the emergence and progression of AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Masoud Soheili
- Physiology Research Center, Institute for Basic Sciences, Kashan University of Medical Sciences, Kashan, Iran
| | - Mohammad Karimian
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, Faculty of Basic Sciences, University of Mazandaran, Babolsar, Iran
| | - Gholamali Hamidi
- Physiology Research Center, Institute for Basic Sciences, Kashan University of Medical Sciences, Kashan, Iran
| | - Mahmoud Salami
- Physiology Research Center, Institute for Basic Sciences, Kashan University of Medical Sciences, Kashan, Iran
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20
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Wang B, Lin X, Zhou J, Xie C, Li C, Dong R, Zhang G, Sun X, Wang M, Bi Y. Insulin-like growth factor-1 improves postoperative cognitive dysfunction following splenectomy in aged rats. Exp Ther Med 2021; 21:215. [PMID: 33574912 PMCID: PMC7818527 DOI: 10.3892/etm.2021.9647] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2019] [Accepted: 09/29/2020] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Postoperative cognitive dysfunction (POCD) is a serious complication following anesthesia and operations in aged patients undergoing surgical intervention. It is characterized by temporary or permanent cognitive decline, memory impairment and deterioration in language comprehension and social adaption ability. Therefore, the development of POCD prevention and treatment tools has become an area of interest. The current study assessed the therapeutic effects of insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) on POCD in aged rats and explored the underlying mechanisms. Model rats underwent splenectomy under 1.5-2% isoflurane and mechanical ventilation. IGF-1 (50 µg/kg) was diluted in normal saline and administered by abdominal hypodermic injection daily from the operation to day 7 post-operation. Following splenectomy, the animals showed marked cognitive impairment as determined by the Morris water maze test. Hippocampal protein levels of amyloid precursor protein (APP), β-site APP-cleaving enzyme-1 (BACE-1), amyloid-β (Aβ), capase3, Bax and Bcl-2 were assessed by immunoblotting. Neuronal apoptosis in the hippocampus was analyzed using a TUNEL assay. The results demonstrated that the levels of APP, BACE-1, Aβ, caspase3 and Bax were increased following splenectomy, while the levels of Bcl2 were reduced at days 1, 3 and 7 post-operation in aged rats. However, IGF-1 downregulated APP, BACE-1, Aβ, capase3 and Bax, and upregulated Bcl2 at these time points following splenectomy. TUNEL staining revealed that administration of IGF-1 significantly reduced neuronal apoptosis in the hippocampal CA1 region following splenectomy. These results indicated that IGF-1 decreased Aβ-protein production and inhibited neuronal apoptosis in the hippocampus following splenectomy, subsequently alleviating POCD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bin Wang
- Department of Anesthesiology, Qingdao Municipal Hospital Affiliated to Qingdao University, Qingdao, Shandong 266071, P.R. China
| | - Xu Lin
- Department of Anesthesiology, Qingdao Municipal Hospital Affiliated to Qingdao University, Qingdao, Shandong 266071, P.R. China
| | - Jiahui Zhou
- Department of Anesthesiology, Qingdao Municipal Hospital Affiliated to Qingdao University, Qingdao, Shandong 266071, P.R. China
| | - Chunhui Xie
- Department of Anesthesiology, Weifang Medical University, Weifang, Shandong 261042, P.R. China
| | - Chuan Li
- Department of Anesthesiology, Weifang Medical University, Weifang, Shandong 261042, P.R. China
| | - Rui Dong
- Department of Anesthesiology, Qingdao Municipal Hospital Affiliated to Qingdao University, Qingdao, Shandong 266071, P.R. China
| | - Gaofeng Zhang
- Department of Anesthesiology, Qingdao Municipal Hospital Affiliated to Qingdao University, Qingdao, Shandong 266071, P.R. China
| | - Xiaopeng Sun
- Department of Anesthesiology, Qingdao Municipal Hospital Affiliated to Qingdao University, Qingdao, Shandong 266071, P.R. China
| | - Mingshan Wang
- Department of Anesthesiology, Qingdao Municipal Hospital Affiliated to Qingdao University, Qingdao, Shandong 266071, P.R. China
| | - Yanlin Bi
- Department of Anesthesiology, Qingdao Municipal Hospital Affiliated to Qingdao University, Qingdao, Shandong 266071, P.R. China
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Azmand MJ, Rajaei Z. Effects of crocin on spatial or aversive learning and memory impairments induced by lipopolysaccharide in rats. AVICENNA JOURNAL OF PHYTOMEDICINE 2021; 11:79-90. [PMID: 33628722 PMCID: PMC7885005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Neuroinflammation and oxidative stress play essential roles in the pathogenesis and progression of neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer's disease. Crocin, main active constituent of Crocus sativus L. (saffron), possesses anti-inflammatory, anti-apoptotic and anti-oxidative capacity. The aim of the present study was to investigate the neuroprotective effect of crocin on lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced learning and memory deficits and neuroinflammation in rats. MATERIALS AND METHODS The animals were randomly classified into four groups, including control, LPS, crocin 50 and crocin 100. The rats were treated with either crocin (50 and 100 mg/kg) or saline for a week. Later, LPS (1 mg/kg, i.p.) or saline was administered, and treatments with crocin or saline were continued for 3 more weeks. The behavioral tasks for spatial and aversive memories were performed by the Morris water maze and passive avoidance tasks from post-injection days 18 to 24. Furthermore, the levels of interleukine-1β, lipid peroxidation and total thiol were assayed in the hippocampus and cerebral cortex. RESULTS Our results demonstrated that treatment of LPS-treated rats with crocin decreased the escape latency in the Morris water maze and increased the time spent in the target quadrant in the probe trial. Moreover, crocin increased step-through latency in the passive avoidance test. However, there was no significant difference in the oxidative and neuroinflammatory responses among the experimental groups. CONCLUSION Pretreatment with crocin attenuates spatial or aversive learning and memory deficits in LPS-treated rats.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ziba Rajaei
- Corresponding Author: Tel:+98-31-37929181, Fax:+98-31-36688597,
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Bian Y, Zhao C, Lee SMY. Neuroprotective Potency of Saffron Against Neuropsychiatric Diseases, Neurodegenerative Diseases, and Other Brain Disorders: From Bench to Bedside. Front Pharmacol 2020; 11:579052. [PMID: 33117172 PMCID: PMC7573929 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2020.579052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2020] [Accepted: 09/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The increasing morbidity rates of brain disorders and conditions such as anxiety, depression, Alzheimer’s disease, and Parkinson’s disease have become a severe problem in recent years. Although researchers have spent considerable time studying these diseases and reported many positive outcomes, there still are limited drugs available for their treatment. As a common traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), saffron was employed to treat depression and some other inflammatory diseases in ancient China due to its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antidepressant properties. In modern times, saffron and its constituents have been utilized, alone and in TCM formulas, to treat neuropsychiatric and neurodegenerative diseases. In this review, we mainly focus on recent clinical and preclinical trials of brain disorders in which saffron was applied, and summarize the neuroprotective properties of saffron and its constituents from chemical, pharmacokinetic, and pharmacological perspectives. We discuss the properties of saffron and its constituents, as well as their applications for treating brain disorders; we hope that this review will serve as a comprehensive reference for studies aimed at developing therapeutic drugs based on saffron.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yaqi Bian
- State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine and Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, University of Macau, Macau, China
| | - Chen Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine and Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, University of Macau, Macau, China
| | - Simon Ming-Yuen Lee
- State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine and Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, University of Macau, Macau, China
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23
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Therapeutic potentials of crocin in medication of neurological disorders. Food Chem Toxicol 2020; 145:111739. [PMID: 32916219 DOI: 10.1016/j.fct.2020.111739] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2020] [Revised: 08/29/2020] [Accepted: 09/03/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Neurological sicknesses are serious, multifactorial, debilitating disorders that may cause neurodegeneration. Neuroprotection is the protection of the structure and capacity of neurons from affronts emerging from cell injuries instigated by an assortment of specialists or neurodegenerative diseases. Various neurodegenerative diseases, including Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, and epilepsy, afflict many people worldwide, with increasing age representing the leading risk factor. Crocin is a natural carotenoid compound which was found to have therapeutic potentials in the management of the neurological disease. In this review, we focused on the restorative capabilities of Crocin as a neuroprotective agent. The general neuroprotective impact and the various conceivable basic components identified with Crocin have been examined. In light of the substantial proof indicating the neuro-pharmacological viability of Crocin to different exploratory standards, it is concluded that Crocin exerts direct antioxidant, antiapoptotic and anti-inflammatory activities by multiple signaling pathways. Besides, Crocin was found to elevate dopamine level in the brain during the experimental model of Parkinson's disease. Thus, this compound has been demonstrated to be a promising option for the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases, with few adverse effects. It ought to be further considered as a potential contender for neuro-therapeutics, concentrating on the mechanistic and clinical evidence for its effects.
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Stefanescu R, Stanciu GD, Luca A, Paduraru L, Tamba BI. Secondary Metabolites from Plants Possessing Inhibitory Properties against Beta-Amyloid Aggregation as Revealed by Thioflavin-T Assay and Correlations with Investigations on Transgenic Mouse Models of Alzheimer's Disease. Biomolecules 2020; 10:E870. [PMID: 32517180 PMCID: PMC7355648 DOI: 10.3390/biom10060870] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2020] [Revised: 05/28/2020] [Accepted: 06/05/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease is a neurodegenerative disorder for which there is a continuous search of drugs able to reduce or stop the cognitive decline. Beta-amyloid peptides are composed of 40 and 42 amino acids and are considered a major cause of neuronal toxicity. They are prone to aggregation, yielding oligomers and fibrils through the inter-molecular binding between the amino acid sequences (17-42) of multiple amyloid-beta molecules. Additionally, amyloid deposition causes cerebral amyloid angiopathy. The present study aims to identify, in the existing literature, natural plant derived products possessing inhibitory properties against aggregation. The studies searched proved the anti-aggregating effects by the thioflavin T assay and through behavioral, biochemical, and histological analysis carried out upon administration of natural chemical compounds to transgenic mouse models of Alzheimer's disease. According to our present study results, fifteen secondary metabolites from plants were identified which presented both evidence coming from the thioflavin T assay and transgenic mouse models developing Alzheimer's disease and six additional metabolites were mentioned due to their inhibitory effects against fibrillogenesis. Among them, epigallocatechin-3-gallate, luteolin, myricetin, and silibinin were proven to lower the aggregation to less than 40%.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raluca Stefanescu
- Center for Advanced Research and Development in Experimental Medicine (CEMEX), “Grigore T. Popa” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 700115 Iasi, Romania; (R.S.); (A.L.); (B.-I.T.)
| | - Gabriela Dumitriṭa Stanciu
- Center for Advanced Research and Development in Experimental Medicine (CEMEX), “Grigore T. Popa” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 700115 Iasi, Romania; (R.S.); (A.L.); (B.-I.T.)
| | - Andrei Luca
- Center for Advanced Research and Development in Experimental Medicine (CEMEX), “Grigore T. Popa” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 700115 Iasi, Romania; (R.S.); (A.L.); (B.-I.T.)
- Department of Pneumology, “Grigore T. Popa” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 700115 Iasi, Romania
| | - Luminita Paduraru
- Division Neonatology, Department Mother & Child Care, “Grigore T. Popa” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 700115 Iasi, Romania;
| | - Bogdan-Ionel Tamba
- Center for Advanced Research and Development in Experimental Medicine (CEMEX), “Grigore T. Popa” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 700115 Iasi, Romania; (R.S.); (A.L.); (B.-I.T.)
- Department of Pharmacology, Clinical Pharmacology and Algesiology, “Grigore T. Popa” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 700115 Iasi, Romania
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Ma L, Yang C, Zheng J, Chen Y, Xiao Y, Huang K. Non-polyphenolic natural inhibitors of amyloid aggregation. Eur J Med Chem 2020; 192:112197. [PMID: 32172082 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2020.112197] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2019] [Revised: 02/09/2020] [Accepted: 02/28/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Protein misfolding diseases (PMDs) are chronic and progressive, with no effective therapy so far. Aggregation and misfolding of amyloidogenic proteins are closely associated with the onset and progression of PMDs, such as amyloid-β (Aβ) in Alzheimer's disease, α-Synuclein (α-Syn) in Parkinson's disease and human islet amyloid polypeptide (hIAPP) in type 2 diabetes. Inhibiting toxic aggregation of amyloidogenic proteins is regarded as a promising therapeutic approach in PMDs. The past decade has witnessed the rapid progresses of this field, dozens of inhibitors have been screened and verified in vitro and in vivo, demonstrating inhibitory effects against the aggregation and misfolding of amyloidogenic proteins, together with beneficial effects. Natural products are major sources of small molecule amyloid inhibitors, a number of natural derived compounds have been identified with great bioactivities and translational prospects. Here, we review the non-polyphenolic natural inhibitors that potentially applicable for PMDs treatment, along with their working mechanisms. Future directions are proposed for the development and clinical applications of these inhibitors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liang Ma
- Affiliated Wuhan Mental Health Center, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, 430030, China
| | - Chen Yang
- Tongji School of Pharmacy, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, 430030, China
| | - Jiaojiao Zheng
- Tongji School of Pharmacy, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, 430030, China
| | - Yuchen Chen
- Tongji School of Pharmacy, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, 430030, China
| | - Yushuo Xiao
- College of Pharmacy, Hubei University of Chinese Medicine, Wuhan, 430035, China
| | - Kun Huang
- Tongji School of Pharmacy, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, 430030, China.
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Carotenoids as Novel Therapeutic Molecules Against Neurodegenerative Disorders: Chemistry and Molecular Docking Analysis. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:ijms20225553. [PMID: 31703296 PMCID: PMC6888440 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20225553] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2019] [Revised: 11/02/2019] [Accepted: 11/04/2019] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is the most devastating neurodegenerative disorder that affects the aging population worldwide. Endogenous and exogenous factors are involved in triggering this complex and multifactorial disease, whose hallmark is Amyloid-β (Aβ), formed by cleavage of amyloid precursor protein by β- and γ-secretase. While there is no definitive cure for AD to date, many neuroprotective natural products, such as polyphenol and carotenoid compounds, have shown promising preventive activity, as well as helping in slowing down disease progression. In this article, we focus on the chemistry as well as structure of carotenoid compounds and their neuroprotective activity against Aβ aggregation using molecular docking analysis. In addition to examining the most prevalent anti-amyloidogenic carotenoid lutein, we studied cryptocapsin, astaxanthin, fucoxanthin, and the apocarotenoid bixin. Our computational structure-based drug design analysis and molecular docking simulation revealed important interactions between carotenoids and Aβ via hydrogen bonding and van der Waals interactions, and shows that carotenoids are powerful anti-amyloidogenic molecules with a potential role in preventing AD, especially since most of them can cross the blood-brain barrier and are considered nutraceutical compounds. Our studies thus illuminate mechanistic insights on how carotenoids inhibit Aβ aggregation. The potential role of carotenoids as novel therapeutic molecules in treating AD and other neurodegenerative disorders are discussed.
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27
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Save SS, Rachineni K, Hosur RV, Choudhary S. Natural compound safranal driven inhibition and dis-aggregation of α-synuclein fibrils. Int J Biol Macromol 2019; 141:585-595. [PMID: 31505208 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2019.09.053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2019] [Revised: 08/25/2019] [Accepted: 09/06/2019] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
Self-assembly of α-synuclein (α-Syn) is linked with a variety of neurodegenerative diseases collectively called as α-synucleiopathies. Therefore, discovering suitable inhibitors for this self-association process of α-Syn is a subject of intense research. In this background, we have demonstrated here that the natural compound, Safranal, delays/inhibits α-Syn fibrillation/aggregation, and we have also characterized its mode of action. The α-Syn fibrillation/aggregation kinetics studies in combination with TEM studies demonstrated that Safranal effectively inhibits α-Syn fibrillation/aggregation. NMR studies revealed that Safranal binds with α-Syn and stabilizes the monomeric protein. ANS fluorescence and CD measurements indicated that Safranal binds to the hydrophobic residues of the protein and causes delay in the formation of β-sheet rich structures which are crucial for the fibrillation to occur. The results obtained from fluorescence quenching, NMR and ANS binding assays, when analysed taking into consideration the molecular structure of Safranal provide valuable insights into the mechanism of inhibition of α-Syn fibrillation/aggregation. We infer that inhibition of α-Syn fibrillation/aggregation is primarily driven by hydrophobic interactions between Safranal and the protein. Further, Safranal is also seen to dis-aggregates pre-formed α-Syn fibrils. These findings implicate that Safranal could become a potent therapeutic intervention in Parkinson's disease and other protein aggregation related disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shreyada S Save
- UM-DAE Centre for Excellence in Basic Sciences, University of Mumbai, Vidhyanagri Campus, Kalina, Mumbai 400098, India
| | - Kavitha Rachineni
- UM-DAE Centre for Excellence in Basic Sciences, University of Mumbai, Vidhyanagri Campus, Kalina, Mumbai 400098, India
| | - Ramakrishna V Hosur
- UM-DAE Centre for Excellence in Basic Sciences, University of Mumbai, Vidhyanagri Campus, Kalina, Mumbai 400098, India
| | - Sinjan Choudhary
- UM-DAE Centre for Excellence in Basic Sciences, University of Mumbai, Vidhyanagri Campus, Kalina, Mumbai 400098, India.
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28
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Pashirzad M, Shafiee M, Avan A, Ryzhikov M, Fiuji H, Bahreyni A, Khazaei M, Soleimanpour S, Hassanian SM. Therapeutic potency of crocin in the treatment of inflammatory diseases: Current status and perspective. J Cell Physiol 2019; 234:14601-14611. [PMID: 30673132 DOI: 10.1002/jcp.28177] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2018] [Accepted: 01/10/2019] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
Crocin is the major component of saffron, which is used in phytomedicine for the treatment of several diseases including diabetes, fatty liver, depression, menstruation disorders, and, of special interest in this review, inflammatory diseases. Promising selective anti-inflammatory properties of this pharmacological active component have been observed in several studies. Saffron has been shown to exert anti-inflammatory properties against several inflammatory diseases and can be used as a novel therapeutic agent for the treatment of inflammatory diseases either alone or in combination with other standard anti-inflammatory agents. This review summarizes the protective role of saffron and its pharmacologically active constituents in the pathogenesis of inflammatory diseases including digestive diseases, dermatitis, asthma, atherosclerosis, and neurodegenerative diseases for a better understanding and hence a better management of these diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mehran Pashirzad
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Mojtaba Shafiee
- Department of Nutrition, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Amir Avan
- Metabolic Syndrome Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran.,Department of Modern Sciences and Technologies, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Mikhail Ryzhikov
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Washington University, School of Medicine, Saint Louis, Missouri
| | - Hamid Fiuji
- Department of Biochemistry, Payame-Noor University, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Amirhossein Bahreyni
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry and Immunogenetic Research Center, Faculty of Medicine, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Mazandaran, Iran
| | - Majid Khazaei
- Department of Medical Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Saman Soleimanpour
- Department of Microbiology and Virology, School of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Seyed Mahdi Hassanian
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran.,Metabolic Syndrome Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
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Hatziagapiou K, Kakouri E, Lambrou GI, Bethanis K, Tarantilis PA. Antioxidant Properties of Crocus Sativus L. and Its Constituents and Relevance to Neurodegenerative Diseases; Focus on Alzheimer's and Parkinson's Disease. Curr Neuropharmacol 2019; 17:377-402. [PMID: 29564976 PMCID: PMC6482475 DOI: 10.2174/1570159x16666180321095705] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2017] [Revised: 01/03/2018] [Accepted: 03/19/2018] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Reactive oxygen species and reactive nitrogen species, which are collectively called reactive oxygen-nitrogen species, are the inevitable by-products of cellular metabolic redox reactions, such as oxidative phosphorylation in the mitochondrial respiratory chain, phagocytosis, reactions of biotransformation of exogenous and endogenous substrata in endoplasmic reticulum, eicosanoid synthesis, and redox reactions in the presence of metal with variable valence. Among medicinal plants, there is growing interest in Crocus Sativus L. It is a perennial, stemless herb, belonging to Iridaceae family, cultivated in various countries such as Greece, Italy, Spain, Israel, Morocco, Turkey, Iran, India, China, Egypt and Mexico. OBJECTIVE The present study aims to address the protective role of Crocus Sativus L. in neurodegeneration with an emphasis in Parkinson's and Alzheimer's disease. MATERIALS AND METHODS An electronic literature search was conducted by two of the authors from 1993 to August 2017. Original articles and systematic reviews (with or without meta-analysis), as well as case reports were selected. Titles and abstracts of papers were screened by a third reviewer to determine whether they met the eligibility criteria, and full texts of the selected articles were retrieved. RESULTS Hence, the authors focused on the literature concerning the role of Crocus Sativus L. on its anti-oxidant and neuroprotective properties. CONCLUSION Literature findings represented in current review herald promising results for using Crocus Sativus L. and/or its active constituents as antioxidants, anti-inflammatory, and neuroprotective agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kyriaki Hatziagapiou
- First Department of Pediatrics, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Choremeio Research Laboratory, Hematology/Oncology Unit, Athens, Greece
| | - Eleni Kakouri
- Laboratory of Chemistry, Department of Food Science & Human Nutrition, School of Food Biotechnology and Development, Agricultural University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - George I Lambrou
- First Department of Pediatrics, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Choremeio Research Laboratory, Hematology/Oncology Unit, Athens, Greece
| | - Kostas Bethanis
- Physics Laboratory, Department of Biotechnology, School of Food Biotechnology and Development, Agricultural University of Athens, Greece
| | - Petros A Tarantilis
- Laboratory of Chemistry, Department of Food Science & Human Nutrition, School of Food Biotechnology and Development, Agricultural University of Athens, Athens, Greece
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The effect of crocin on apoptotic, inflammatory, BDNF, Pt, and Aβ40 indicators and neuronal density of CA1, CA2, and CA3 regions of hippocampus in the model of Alzheimer suffering rats induced with trimethyltin chloride. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2019. [DOI: 10.1007/s00580-019-02981-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
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31
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In-vitro and in-silico investigation of protective mechanisms of crocin against E46K α-synuclein amyloid formation. Mol Biol Rep 2019; 46:4279-4292. [DOI: 10.1007/s11033-019-04882-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2018] [Accepted: 05/15/2019] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
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32
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Andrade S, Ramalho MJ, Loureiro JA, Pereira MDC. Natural Compounds for Alzheimer's Disease Therapy: A Systematic Review of Preclinical and Clinical Studies. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:E2313. [PMID: 31083327 PMCID: PMC6539304 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20092313] [Citation(s) in RCA: 123] [Impact Index Per Article: 24.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2019] [Revised: 05/04/2019] [Accepted: 05/07/2019] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer's Disease (AD) is a neurodegenerative disorder related with the increase of age and it is the main cause of dementia in the world. AD affects cognitive functions, such as memory, with an intensity that leads to several functional losses. The continuous increase of AD incidence demands for an urgent development of effective therapeutic strategies. Despite the extensive research on this disease, only a few drugs able to delay the progression of the disease are currently available. In the last years, several compounds with pharmacological activities isolated from plants, animals and microorganisms, revealed to have beneficial effects for the treatment of AD, targeting different pathological mechanisms. Thus, a wide range of natural compounds may play a relevant role in the prevention of AD and have proven to be efficient in different preclinical and clinical studies. This work aims to review the natural compounds that until this date were described as having significant benefits for this neurological disease, focusing on studies that present clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephanie Andrade
- LEPABE, Department of Chemical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering of the University of Porto, 4200-465 Porto, Portugal.
| | - Maria João Ramalho
- LEPABE, Department of Chemical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering of the University of Porto, 4200-465 Porto, Portugal.
| | - Joana Angélica Loureiro
- LEPABE, Department of Chemical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering of the University of Porto, 4200-465 Porto, Portugal.
| | - Maria do Carmo Pereira
- LEPABE, Department of Chemical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering of the University of Porto, 4200-465 Porto, Portugal.
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Trans-crocin 4 is not hydrolyzed to crocetin following i.p. administration in mice, while it shows penetration through the blood brain barrier. Fitoterapia 2018; 129:62-72. [PMID: 29920295 DOI: 10.1016/j.fitote.2018.06.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2018] [Revised: 06/14/2018] [Accepted: 06/15/2018] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
A novel, fit-for-purpose, highly sensitive, analytical UPLC-PDA methodology was developed and fully validated, according to ICH, FDA and EMA guidelines, for the rapid and accurate quantification of trans-crocin 4 (TC4) and crocetin (CRC) in mice plasma and brain after i.p. administration. A PDA based methodology shows a wider applicability as it is cost effective and can be easily and seamlessly adopted by the pharma industry. The separation of the analytes was performed on a C18 Hypersil Gold column with 2.5 min run time, employing the internal standard (ISTD) methodology. The two methods were successfully applied for the determination of CRC and TC4 in mouse plasma and brain after i.p. administration of TC4 (50 mg/kg) in a time range of 0-240 min. Due to the selection of i.p. administration route, the first-pass metabolism and/or gastric hydrolysis were bypassed, a fact that enhanced the bioavailability of TC4. Furthermore, TC4 was found to be capable of crossing the Blood Brain Barrier (BBB) and build up levels in the mouse brain, regardless of its highly hydrophilic character. CRC was not detected in any plasma or brain sample, although it has been reported that TC4 quickly hydrolyzes to CRC after p.o. administration. Therefore i.p. administration could be used in the case of TC4 for the accurate determination of its biological role. Overall, the developed methodology offers important information about the bioavailability of TC4 in mouse plasma and for the first time, demonstrates the ability of TC4 to penetrate the BBB and localize inside the brain.
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Recent Advances in Studies on the Therapeutic Potential of Dietary Carotenoids in Neurodegenerative Diseases. OXIDATIVE MEDICINE AND CELLULAR LONGEVITY 2018; 2018:4120458. [PMID: 29849893 PMCID: PMC5926482 DOI: 10.1155/2018/4120458] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2017] [Revised: 02/22/2018] [Accepted: 03/13/2018] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Carotenoids, symmetrical tetraterpenes with a linear C40 hydrocarbon backbone, are natural pigment molecules produced by plants, algae, and fungi. Carotenoids have important functions in the organisms (including animals) that obtain them from food. Due to their characteristic structure, carotenoids have bioactive properties, such as antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and autophagy-modulatory activities. Given the protective function of carotenoids, their levels in the human body have been significantly associated with the treatment and prevention of various diseases, including neurodegenerative diseases. In this paper, we review the latest studies on the effects of carotenoids on neurodegenerative diseases in humans. Furthermore, animal and cellular model studies on the beneficial effects of carotenoids on neurodegeneration are also reviewed. Finally, we discuss the possible mechanisms and limitations of carotenoids in the treatment and prevention of neurological diseases.
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Effects of saffron and its constituents, crocin-1, crocin-2, and crocetin on α-synuclein fibrils. J Nat Med 2017; 72:274-279. [DOI: 10.1007/s11418-017-1150-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2017] [Accepted: 10/31/2017] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
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Hojati S, Ghahghaei A, Lagzian M. The potential inhibitory effect of β-casein on the aggregation and deposition of Aβ1-42 fibrils in Alzheimer’s disease: insight from in-vitro and in-silico studies. J Biomol Struct Dyn 2017. [DOI: 10.1080/07391102.2017.1345326] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Sedighehsadat Hojati
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, University of Sistan and Baluchestan, Zahedan, Iran
| | - Arezou Ghahghaei
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, University of Sistan and Baluchestan, Zahedan, Iran
| | - Milad Lagzian
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, University of Sistan and Baluchestan, Zahedan, Iran
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Xiang S, Liu F, Lin J, Chen H, Huang C, Chen L, Zhou Y, Ye L, Zhang K, Jin J, Zhen J, Wang C, He S, Wang Q, Cui W, Zhang J. Fucoxanthin Inhibits β-Amyloid Assembly and Attenuates β-Amyloid Oligomer-Induced Cognitive Impairments. JOURNAL OF AGRICULTURAL AND FOOD CHEMISTRY 2017; 65:4092-4102. [PMID: 28478680 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jafc.7b00805] [Citation(s) in RCA: 83] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
β-Amyloid (Aβ) can form aggregates through self-assembly and produce neurotoxicity in the early stage of Alzheimer's disease (AD). Therefore, the inhibition of Aβ assembly is considered as the primary target for AD therapy. In this study, we reported that fucoxanthin, a marine carotenoid, potently reduced the formation of Aβ fibrils and oligomers. Moreover, the fucoxanthin-triggered modification significantly reduced the neurotoxicity of Aβ oligomers in vitro. Molecular dynamics simulation analysis further revealed a hydrophobic interaction between fucoxanthin and Aβ peptide, which might prevent the conformational transition and self-assembly of Aβ. Most importantly, fucoxanthin could attenuate cognitive impairments in Aβ oligomer-injected mice. In addition, fucoxanthin significantly inhibited oxidative stress, enhanced the expression of brain-derived neurotrophic factor, and increased ChAT-positive regions in the hippocampus of mice. On the basis of these novel findings, we anticipated that fucoxanthin might ameliorate AD via inhibiting Aβ assembly and attenuating Aβ neurotoxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Fufeng Liu
- Key Laboratory of Industrial Fermentation Microbiology of Education, College of Biotechnology, Tianjin University of Science & Technology , Tianjin 300457, China
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Finley JW, Gao S. A Perspective on Crocus sativus L. (Saffron) Constituent Crocin: A Potent Water-Soluble Antioxidant and Potential Therapy for Alzheimer's Disease. JOURNAL OF AGRICULTURAL AND FOOD CHEMISTRY 2017; 65:1005-1020. [PMID: 28098452 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jafc.6b04398] [Citation(s) in RCA: 83] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/20/2023]
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is the most common form of dementia, in which the death of brain cells causes memory loss and cognitive decline. Several factors are thought to play roles in the development and course of AD. Existing medical therapies only modestly alleviate and delay cognitive symptoms. Current research has been focused on developing antibodies to remove the aggregates of amyloid-β (Aβ) and tau protein. This approach has achieved removal of Aβ; however, no cognitive improvement in AD patients has been reported. The biological properties of saffron, the dry stigma of the plant Crocus sativus L., and particularly its main constituent crocin, have been studied extensively for many conditions including dementia and traumatic brain injury. Crocin is a unique antioxidant because it is a water-soluble carotenoid. Crocin has shown potential to improve learning and memory as well as protect brain cells. A search of the studies on saffron and crocin that have been published in recent years for their impact on AD as well as crocin's effects on Aβ and tau protein has been conducted. This review demonstrates that crocin exhibits multifunctional protective activities in the brain and could be a promising agent applied as a supplement or drug for prevention or treatment of AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- John W Finley
- Adjunct Professor, Department of Nutrition and Food Science, 111 Food Science Building, Louisiana State University , Baton Rouge, Louisiana 70803, United States
- 14719 Secret Harbor Place, Bradenton, Florida 34202, United States
| | - Song Gao
- Quality Phytochemicals LLC , 13 Dexter Road, East Brunswick, New Jersey 08816, United States
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Mohammadzadeh Honarvar N, Saedisomeolia A, Abdolahi M, Shayeganrad A, Taheri Sangsari G, Hassanzadeh Rad B, Muench G. Molecular Anti-inflammatory Mechanisms of Retinoids and Carotenoids in Alzheimer's Disease: a Review of Current Evidence. J Mol Neurosci 2016; 61:289-304. [PMID: 27864661 DOI: 10.1007/s12031-016-0857-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 66] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2016] [Accepted: 10/21/2016] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is considered as one of the most prevalent neurodegenerative disorders characterized by progressive loss of mental function and ability to learn. AD is a multifactorial disorder. Various hypotheses are suggested for the pathophysiology of AD including "Aβ hypothesis," "tau hypothesis," and "cholinergic hypothesis." Recently, it has been demonstrated that neuroinflammation is involved in the pathogenesis of AD. Neuroinflammation causes synaptic dysfunction and neuronal death within the brain. Excessive production of pro-inflammatory mediators induces Aβ peptide production/accumulation and hyperphosphorylated tau generating inflammatory molecules and cytokines. These inflammatory molecules disrupt blood-brain barrier integrity and increase the production of Aβ42 oligomers. Retinoids and carotenoids are potent antioxidants and anti-inflammatory agents having neuroprotective properties. They are able to prevent disease progression through several mechanisms such as suppression of Aβ peptide production/accumulation, oxidative stress, and pro-inflammatory mediator's secretion as well as improvement of cognitive performance. These observations, therefore, confirm the neuroprotective role of retinoids and carotenoids through multiple pathways. Therefore, the administration of these nutrients is considered as a promising approach to the prevention and/or treatment of AD in the future. The aim of this review is to present existing evidences regarding the beneficial effects of retinoids and carotenoids on AD's risk and outcomes, seeking the mechanism of their action.
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Affiliation(s)
- Niyaz Mohammadzadeh Honarvar
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Nutrition, School of Nutritional Sciences and Dietetics, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ahmad Saedisomeolia
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Nutrition, School of Nutritional Sciences and Dietetics, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran. .,Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Western Sydney University, NSW, Australia. .,School of Molecular Bioscience, Charles Perkins Centre, University of Sydney, NSW, Australia.
| | - Mina Abdolahi
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Nutrition, School of Nutritional Sciences and Dietetics, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Amir Shayeganrad
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Nutrition, School of Nutritional Sciences and Dietetics, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | | | | | - Gerald Muench
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Western Sydney University, NSW, Australia
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Vitamin k3 inhibits protein aggregation: Implication in the treatment of amyloid diseases. Sci Rep 2016; 6:26759. [PMID: 27230476 PMCID: PMC4882616 DOI: 10.1038/srep26759] [Citation(s) in RCA: 135] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2016] [Accepted: 04/29/2016] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Protein misfolding and aggregation have been associated with several human diseases such as Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s and familial amyloid polyneuropathy etc. In this study, anti-fibrillation activity of vitamin k3 and its effect on the kinetics of amyloid formation of hen egg white lysozyme (HEWL) and Aβ-42 peptide were investigated. Here, in combination with Thioflavin T (ThT) fluorescence assay, circular dichroism (CD), transmission electron microscopy and cell cytotoxicity assay, we demonstrated that vitamin k3 significantly inhibits fibril formation as well as the inhibitory effect is dose dependent manner. Our experimental studies inferred that vitamin k3 exert its neuro protective effect against amyloid induced cytotoxicity through concerted pathway, modifying the aggregation formation towards formation of nontoxic aggregates. Molecular docking demonstrated that vitamin k3 mediated inhibition of HEWL and Aβ-42 fibrillogenesis may be initiated by interacting with proteolytic resistant and aggregation prone regions respectively. This work would provide an insight into the mechanism of protein aggregation inhibition by vitamin k3; pave the way for discovery of other small molecules that may exert similar effect against amyloid formation and its associated neurodegenerative diseases.
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Inhibitory Effect of Crocin(s) on Lens α-Crystallin Glycation and Aggregation, Results in the Decrease of the Risk of Diabetic Cataract. Molecules 2016; 21:143. [PMID: 26821002 PMCID: PMC6273448 DOI: 10.3390/molecules21020143] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2015] [Revised: 01/14/2016] [Accepted: 01/20/2016] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The current study investigates the inhibitory effect of crocin(s), also known as saffron apocarotenoids, on protein glycation and aggregation in diabetic rats, and α-crystallin glycation. Thus, crocin(s) were administered by intraperitoneal injection to normal and streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats. The cataract progression was recorded regularly every two weeks and was classified into four stages. After eight weeks, the animals were sacrificed and the parameters involved in the cataract formation were measured in the animal lenses. Some parameters were also determined in the serum and blood of the rats. In addition, the effect of crocin(s) on the structure and chaperone activity of α-crystallin in the presence of glucose was studied by different methods. Crocin(s) lowered serum glucose levels of diabetic rats and effectively maintained plasma total antioxidants, glutathione levels and catalase activity in the lens of the animals. In the in vitro study, crocin(s) inhibited α-crystallin glycation and aggregation. Advanced glycation end products fluorescence, hydrophobicity and protein cross-links were also decreased in the presence of crocin(s). In addition, the decreased chaperone activity of α-crystallin in the presence of glucose changed and became close to the native value by the addition of crocin(s) in the medium. Crocin(s) thus showed a powerful inhibitory effect on α-crystallin glycation and preserved the structure-function of this protein. Crocin(s) also showed the beneficial effects on prevention of diabetic cataract.
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Karakani AM, Riazi G, Mahmood Ghaffari S, Ahmadian S, Mokhtari F, Jalili Firuzi M, Zahra Bathaie S. Inhibitory effect of corcin on aggregation of 1N/4R human tau protein in vitro. IRANIAN JOURNAL OF BASIC MEDICAL SCIENCES 2015; 18:485-92. [PMID: 26124935 PMCID: PMC4475657] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2014] [Accepted: 12/02/2014] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Alzheimer's disease (AD) is the most common age-related neurodegenerative disorder. One of the hallmarks of AD is an abnormal accumulation of fibril forms of tau protein which is known as a microtubule associated protein. In this regard, inhibition of tau aggregation has been documented to be a potent therapeutic approach in AD and tauopathies. Unfortunately, the available synthetic drugs have modest beneficial efficacy with several side effects. Therefore, pipeline drugs from natural sources with anti-aggregation properties can be useful in the prevention and treatment of AD. Among medicinal plants, saffron (Crocus sativus, L.), as a traditional herbal medicine has different pharmacological properties and can be used as treatment for several nervous system impairment including depression and dementia. Crocin as a major constituent of saffron is the glycosylated form of crocetin. MATERIALS AND METHODS In this study, we investigated the inhibitory effect of crocin on aggregation of recombinant human tau protein 1N/4R isoform using biochemical methods and cell culture. RESULTS Results revealed that tau protein under the fibrillation condition and in the presence of crocin had enough stability with low tendency for aggregation. Crocin inhibited tau aggregation with IC50 of 100 µg/ml. Furthermore, transmission electron microscopy images confirmed that crocin could suppress the formation of tau protein filaments. CONCLUSION Inhibitory effect of crocin could be related to its interference with nucleation phase that led to increases in monomer species of tau protein. Based on our results, crocin is recommended as a proper candidate to be used in AD treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Gholamhossein Riazi
- Institute of Biochemistry and Biophysics, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran,*Corresponding author: Gholam Hossein Riazi. Department of Biochemistry, Institute of Biochemistry and Biophysics, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran. Tel: +98-21-61112473; Fax: +98-21-66404680;
| | | | - Shahin Ahmadian
- Institute of Biochemistry and Biophysics, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Farzad Mokhtari
- Institute of Biochemistry and Biophysics, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Intake of dietary phytochemicals has frequently been associated with health benefits. Noninfectious diseases including cardiovascular disease (CVD), cancer and diabetes are major causes of death, whereas dementia cases are also increasing to 'epidemic' proportion. This review will focus on recent progress on mechanisms underlying the potential role of dietary phytochemicals in CVD, diabetes, cancer and dementia, with consideration of the latest clinical data. RECENT FINDINGS The association of tea (Camellia sinensis), particularly catechins, with reported mechanistic effects for CVD, diabetes, cancer and cognition contributes to our understanding of the suggested benefits of tea consumption on health from limited and inconclusive clinical trial and epidemiological data. Resveratrol, which occurs in grapes (Vitis vinifera) and wine, and curcumin, a component of turmeric (Curcuma longa), are also emerging as potentially relevant to health, particularly for CVD and dementia, with some promising data also concluded for curcumin in cancer. Other phytochemicals mechanistically relevant for health include anthocyanins, isoflavones and glucosinolates, which are also discussed. SUMMARY Evidence for the role of phytochemicals in health and disease is growing, but associations between phytochemicals and disease need to be more firmly understood and established from more robust clinical data using preparations that have been phytochemically characterized.
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Bathaie SZ, Farajzade A, Hoshyar R. A review of the chemistry and uses of crocins and crocetin, the carotenoid natural dyes in saffron, with particular emphasis on applications as colorants including their use as biological stains. Biotech Histochem 2014; 89:401-11. [PMID: 24665936 DOI: 10.3109/10520295.2014.890741] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The perennial flowering plant, saffron crocus (Crocus sativus L.), is the source of the most expensive spice in the world. The dried stigmas of saffron flowers are the source of a natural dye, saffron, which has been used from ancient times for dyeing silk and fabric rugs, and for painting; it also has been used for cooking and in medicine. The yellow compounds present in the dye include crocins, which are 20-carbon water soluble glycosyl derivatives of the carotenoid, crocetin, and the dicarboxylic acid itself. We review the chemistry of these compounds and discuss various applications of saffron as a natural dye. We review in particular the use of saffron or its constituents in histopathologic techniques.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Z Bathaie
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University , Tehran
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Cacabelos R, Cacabelos P, Torrellas C, Tellado I, Carril JC. Pharmacogenomics of Alzheimer's disease: novel therapeutic strategies for drug development. Methods Mol Biol 2014; 1175:323-556. [PMID: 25150875 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-4939-0956-8_13] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a major problem of health and disability, with a relevant economic impact on our society. Despite important advances in pathogenesis, diagnosis, and treatment, its primary causes still remain elusive, accurate biomarkers are not well characterized, and the available pharmacological treatments are not cost-effective. As a complex disorder, AD is a polygenic and multifactorial clinical entity in which hundreds of defective genes distributed across the human genome may contribute to its pathogenesis. Diverse environmental factors, cerebrovascular dysfunction, and epigenetic phenomena, together with structural and functional genomic dysfunctions, lead to amyloid deposition, neurofibrillary tangle formation, and premature neuronal death, the major neuropathological hallmarks of AD. Future perspectives for the global management of AD predict that genomics and proteomics may help in the search for reliable biomarkers. In practical terms, the therapeutic response to conventional drugs (cholinesterase inhibitors, multifactorial strategies) is genotype-specific. Genomic factors potentially involved in AD pharmacogenomics include at least five categories of gene clusters: (1) genes associated with disease pathogenesis; (2) genes associated with the mechanism of action of drugs; (3) genes associated with drug metabolism (phase I and II reactions); (4) genes associated with drug transporters; and (5) pleiotropic genes involved in multifaceted cascades and metabolic reactions. The implementation of pharmacogenomic strategies will contribute to optimize drug development and therapeutics in AD and related disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ramón Cacabelos
- Chair of Genomic Medicine, Camilo José Cela University, 28692, Villanueva de la Cañada, Madrid, Spain,
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Abstract
Saffron carotenoids, crocin and crocetin, have shown anticancer activity in various animal models of cancer and against different cancerous cell lines. The radical scavenging property and activation of antioxidant defense system are two well-known characteristics of these compounds. However, the results of the studies indicated other mechanisms could also be involved in this function. Insights into various molecular mechanisms of action for crocin and crocetin have been obtained in recent years. The results indicated that despite the structural similarity of crocin and crocetin, their anticancer effects may exert through different mechanisms. Particular interest concerns the ROS-dependent signaling pathways of crocetin. Saffron compounds are safe and may provide inexpensive therapy for treating cancer. They also have protective potential in targeting other disorders including diabetes, Alzheimer's and cardiovascular disease, cognitive deficits, ischemia-induced retinal damage, and many other diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Zahra Bathaie
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran; Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Molecular Genetics, Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center, Molecular Biology Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, California, USA.
| | - Azam Bolhassani
- Department of Hepatitis and AIDS, Pasteur Institute of Iran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Fuyuhiko Tamanoi
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Molecular Genetics, Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center, Molecular Biology Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, California, USA
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