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Monchaux de Oliveira C, Morael J, Guille A, Amadieu C, Vancassel S, Gaudout D, Capuron L, Pourtau L, Castanon N. Saffron extract interferes with lipopolysaccharide-induced brain activation of the kynurenine pathway and impairment of monoamine neurotransmission in mice. Front Nutr 2023; 10:1267839. [PMID: 37867499 PMCID: PMC10585275 DOI: 10.3389/fnut.2023.1267839] [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: 07/28/2023] [Accepted: 09/05/2023] [Indexed: 10/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Although activation of inflammatory processes is essential to fight infections, its prolonged impact on brain function is well known to contribute to the pathophysiology of many medical conditions, including neuropsychiatric disorders. Therefore, identifying novel strategies to selectively counter the harmful effects of neuroinflammation appears as a major health concern. In that context, this study aimed to test the relevance of a nutritional intervention with saffron, a spice known for centuries for its beneficial effect on health. Methods For this purpose, the impact of an acute oral administration of a standardized saffron extract, which was previously shown to display neuromodulatory properties and reduce depressive-like behavior, was measured in mice challenged with lipopolysaccharide (LPS, 830 μg/kg, ip). Results Pretreatment with saffron extract (6.5 mg/kg, per os) did not reduce LPS-induced sickness behavior, preserving therefore this adaptive behavioral response essential for host defense. However, it interfered with delayed changes of expression of cytokines, chemokines and markers of microglial activation measured 24 h post-LPS treatment in key brain areas for behavior and mood control (frontal cortex, hippocampus, striatum). Importantly, this pretreatment also counteracted by that time the impact of LPS on several neurobiological processes contributing to inflammation-induced emotional alterations, in particular the activation of the kynurenine pathway, assessed through the expression of its main enzymes, as well as concomitant impairment of serotonergic and dopaminergic neurotransmission. Conclusion Altogether, this study provides important clues on how saffron extract interferes with brain function in conditions of immune stimulation and supports the relevance of saffron-based nutritional interventions to improve the management of inflammation-related comorbidities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Camille Monchaux de Oliveira
- INRAE, NutriNeuro, UMR 1286, Bordeaux University, Bordeaux IPB, Bordeaux, France
- Activ’Inside, Beychac-et-Caillau, France
| | - Jennifer Morael
- INRAE, NutriNeuro, UMR 1286, Bordeaux University, Bordeaux IPB, Bordeaux, France
| | - Alexandrine Guille
- INRAE, NutriNeuro, UMR 1286, Bordeaux University, Bordeaux IPB, Bordeaux, France
| | - Camille Amadieu
- INRAE, NutriNeuro, UMR 1286, Bordeaux University, Bordeaux IPB, Bordeaux, France
| | - Sylvie Vancassel
- INRAE, NutriNeuro, UMR 1286, Bordeaux University, Bordeaux IPB, Bordeaux, France
| | | | - Lucile Capuron
- INRAE, NutriNeuro, UMR 1286, Bordeaux University, Bordeaux IPB, Bordeaux, France
| | | | - Nathalie Castanon
- INRAE, NutriNeuro, UMR 1286, Bordeaux University, Bordeaux IPB, Bordeaux, France
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Pouchieu C, Pourtau L, Brossaud J, Gaudout D, Corcuff JB, Capuron L, Castanon N, Philip P. Acute Effect of a Saffron Extract (Safr'Inside TM) and Its Main Volatile Compound on the Stress Response in Healthy Young Men: A Randomized, Double Blind, Placebo-Controlled, Crossover Study. Nutrients 2023; 15:2921. [PMID: 37447245 DOI: 10.3390/nu15132921] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2023] [Revised: 06/14/2023] [Accepted: 06/21/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023] Open
Abstract
According to animal studies, saffron and its main volatile compound safranal may reduce biological and behavioral signs of acute stress. However, little is known about its impact in humans. This study investigated the acute effect of a saffron extract and safranal on the biological and psychological stress responses in healthy men experiencing a laboratory stress procedure. In this double-blind, placebo-controlled, randomized, cross-over study, 19 volunteers aged 18-25 received a single dose of 30 mg saffron extract (Safr'InsideTM), 0.06 mg synthetic safranal, or a placebo on three visits separated by a 28-day washout. Thirteen minutes after administration, participants were exposed to the Maastricht acute stress test (MAST). Salivary cortisol and cortisone were collected from 15 min before the MAST (and pre-dose), 3 min before the MAST, and then 15, 30, 45, 60, and 75 min after the MAST, and stress and anxiety were measured using visual analogic scales. Compared to the placebo, stress and anxiety were significantly toned down after Safranal and Safr'InsideTM administration and coupled with a delay in the times to peak salivary cortisol and cortisone concentrations (p < 0.05). Safr'InsideTM and its volatile compound seem to improve psychological stress response in healthy men after exposure to a lab-based stressor and may modulate the biological stress response.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Line Pourtau
- Activ'Inside, F-33750 Beychac et Caillau, France
| | - Julie Brossaud
- Hormone Laboratory, Nuclear Medicine, CHU Bordeaux, UMR INRA 1286, University Bordeaux, F-33000 Bordeaux, France
| | | | - Jean-Benoit Corcuff
- Hormone Laboratory, Nuclear Medicine, CHU Bordeaux, UMR INRA 1286, University Bordeaux, F-33000 Bordeaux, France
| | - Lucile Capuron
- INRAE, Nutrition and Integrative Neurobiology (NutriNeuro), Bordeaux University, UMR 1286, F-33000 Bordeaux, France
| | - Nathalie Castanon
- INRAE, Nutrition and Integrative Neurobiology (NutriNeuro), Bordeaux University, UMR 1286, F-33000 Bordeaux, France
| | - Pierre Philip
- Pôle Neurosciences Cliniques, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Bordeaux, F-33076 Bordeaux, France
- Sommeil, Addiction et NeuroPSYchiatrie, Bordeaux University, CNRS, SANPSY, UMR 6033, F-33000 Bordeaux, France
- Centre d'Investigation Clinique Bordeaux, INSERM CIC 1401, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Bordeaux, F-33000 Bordeaux, France
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3
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Matraszek-Gawron R, Chwil M, Terlecki K, Skoczylas MM. Current Knowledge of the Antidepressant Activity of Chemical Compounds from Crocus sativus L. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2022; 16:58. [PMID: 36678554 PMCID: PMC9860663 DOI: 10.3390/ph16010058] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2022] [Revised: 12/09/2022] [Accepted: 12/12/2022] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Psychotropic effect of Crocus sativus L. (family Iridaceae) biologically active chemical compounds are quite well documented and they can therefore be used in addition to the conventional pharmacological treatment of depression. This systematic review on antidepressant compounds in saffron crocus and their mechanisms of action and side effects is based on publications released between 1995−2022 and data indexed in 15 databases under the following search terms: antidepressant effect, central nervous system, Crocus sativus, cognitive impairement, crocin, crocetin, depression, dopamine, dopaminergic and serotonergic systems, picrocrocin, phytotherapy, neurotransmitters, safranal, saffron, serotonin, and biologically active compounds. The comparative analysis of the publications was based on 414 original research papers. The investigated literature indicates the effectiveness and safety of aqueous and alcoholic extracts and biologically active chemical compounds (alkaloids, anthocyanins, carotenoids, flavonoid, phenolic, saponins, and terpenoids) isolated from various organs (corms, leaves, flower petal, and stigmas) in adjuvant treatment of depression and anxiety. Monoamine reuptake inhibition, N-methyl-d-aspartate (NMDA) receptor antagonism, and gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA)-α agonism are the main proposed mechanism of the antidepressant action. The antidepressant and neuroprotective effect of extract components is associated with their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activity. The mechanism of their action, interactions with conventional drugs and other herbal preparations and the safety of use are not fully understood; therefore, further detailed research in this field is necessary. The presented results regarding the application of C. sativus in phytotherapy are promising in terms of the use of herbal preparations to support the treatment of depression. This is particularly important given the steady increase in the incidence of this disease worldwide and social effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Renata Matraszek-Gawron
- Department of Botany and Plant Physiology, University of Life Sciences in Lublin, Akademicka 15 Street, 20-950 Lublin, Poland
| | - Mirosława Chwil
- Department of Botany and Plant Physiology, University of Life Sciences in Lublin, Akademicka 15 Street, 20-950 Lublin, Poland
| | - Karol Terlecki
- Department of Vascular Surgery and Angiology, Medical University of Lublin, Racławickie 1 Street, 20-059 Lublin, Poland
| | - Michał Marian Skoczylas
- Department of Diagnostic Imaging and Interventional Radiology, Pomeranian Medical University in Szczecin, Unii Lubelskiej 1 Street, 71-252 Szczecin, Poland
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4
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Noori T, Sureda A, Sobarzo-Sánchez E, Shirooie S. The Role of Natural Products in Treatment of Depressive Disorder. Curr Neuropharmacol 2022; 20:929-949. [PMID: 34979889 PMCID: PMC9881107 DOI: 10.2174/1570159x20666220103140834] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2021] [Revised: 11/09/2021] [Accepted: 11/26/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Depressive disorder is one of the most common psychiatric syndromes that, if left untreated, can cause many disturbances in a person's life. Numerous factors are involved in depression, including inflammation, brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), GABAergic system, hypothalamic- pituitary-adrenal (HPA) Axis, monoamine neurotransmitters (serotonin (5-HT), noradrenaline, and dopamine). Common treatments for depression are selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, tricyclic antidepressants, and monoamine oxidase inhibitors, but these drugs have several side effects such as anxiety, diarrhea, constipation, weight loss, and sexual dysfunctions. These agents only reduce the symptoms and temporarily reduce the rate of cognitive impairment associated with depression. As a result, extensive research has recently been conducted on the potential use of antidepressant and sedative herbs. According to the available data, herbs used in traditional medicine can be significantly effective in reducing depression, depressive symptoms and improving patients' performance. The present study provides a summary of biomarkers and therapeutic goals of depression and shows that natural products such as saffron or genipin have antidepressant effects. Some of the useful natural products and their mechanisms were evaluated. Data on various herbs and natural isolated compounds reported to prevent and reduce depressive symptoms is also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tayebeh Noori
- Pharmaceutical Sciences Research Center, Health Institute, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran
| | - Antoni Sureda
- Research Group on Community Nutrition and Oxidative Stress (NUCOX) and Health Research Institute of Balearic Islands (IdISBa), University of Balearic Islands-IUNICS, Palma de Mallorca E-07122, Balearic Islands, Spain;,CIBER Fisiopatología de la Obesidad y Nutrición (CIBEROBN), Instituto de Salud Carlos III (ISCIII), 28029, Madrid, Spain
| | - Eduardo Sobarzo-Sánchez
- Instituto de Investigación y Postgrado, Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad Central de Chile; Chile;,Department of Organic Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Santiago de Compostela, Santiago, Spain
| | - Samira Shirooie
- Pharmaceutical Sciences Research Center, Health Institute, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran;,Address correspondence to this author at the Pharmaceutical Sciences Research Center, Health Institute, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran; E-mail:
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5
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Prevention of Stress-Induced Depressive-like Behavior by Saffron Extract Is Associated with Modulation of Kynurenine Pathway and Monoamine Neurotransmission. Pharmaceutics 2021; 13:pharmaceutics13122155. [PMID: 34959434 PMCID: PMC8709346 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics13122155] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2021] [Revised: 12/06/2021] [Accepted: 12/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Depressive disorders are a major public health concern. Despite currently available treatment options, their prevalence steadily increases, and a high rate of therapeutic failure is often reported, together with important antidepressant-related side effects. This highlights the need to improve existing therapeutic strategies, including by using nutritional interventions. In that context, saffron recently received particular attention for its beneficial effects on mood, although the underlying mechanisms are poorly understood. This study investigated in mice the impact of a saffron extract (Safr’Inside™; 6.25 mg/kg, per os) on acute restraint stress (ARS)-induced depressive-like behavior and related neurobiological alterations, by focusing on hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal axis, inflammation-related metabolic pathways, and monoaminergic systems, all known to be altered by stress and involved in depressive disorder pathophysiology. When given before stress onset, Safr’Inside administration attenuated ARS-induced depressive-like behavior in the forced swim test. Importantly, it concomitantly reversed several stress-induced monoamine dysregulations and modulated the expression of key enzymes of the kynurenine pathway, likely reducing kynurenine-related neurotoxicity. These results show that saffron pretreatment prevents the development of stress-induced depressive symptoms and improves our understanding about the underlying mechanisms, which is a central issue to validate the therapeutic relevance of nutritional interventions with saffron in depressed patients.
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6
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Musazadeh V, Zarezadeh M, Faghfouri AH, Keramati M, Ghoreishi Z, Farnam A. Saffron, as an adjunct therapy, contributes to relieve depression symptoms: An umbrella meta-analysis. Pharmacol Res 2021; 175:105963. [PMID: 34757208 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2021.105963] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2021] [Revised: 10/22/2021] [Accepted: 10/25/2021] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Saffron is a traditional herbal medicine that has been used to treat various ailments such as depressive mood. However, the findings of several meta-analyses regarding anti-depressive properties of saffron (Crocus sativus L.) are controversial. The current umbrella meta-analysis was carried out to determine the magnitude and direction of saffron administration on depression. METHODS Relevant studies were searched in international databases including PubMed, Scopus, EMBASE, Web of Science, and Cochrane Central Library up to June 2021. Meta-analysis studies investigating the effects of saffron on depression were considered to include in the study. Random-effects model was used to perform the meta-analysis. Additional analyses including subgroup and sensitivity analyses were carried out. RESULTS Overall, 7 meta-analyses were included in the study. The results demonstrated that the consumption of saffron resulted in a significant reduction in BDI scores (ES: -3.87; 95% CI: -5.27, -2.46). However, saffron did not change the HAMD scores (ES: -2.10; 95% CI: -5.05, 0.86, p = 0.164) and mixed scores (HAM-D/BDI/DASS) (ES: 0.02; 95% CI: -0.39, 0.43,p = 0.941). CONCLUSION Present umbrella meta-analysis demonstrated that saffron intake might contribute to alleviation of depression disorder, however, it cannot be considered as a single therapeutic approach to treat depression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vali Musazadeh
- Student Research Committee, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran; Department of Community Nutrition, School of Nutrition and Food Sciences, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.
| | - Meysam Zarezadeh
- Student Research Committee, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran; Nutrition Research Center, Department of Clinical Nutrition, School of Nutrition and Food Sciences, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.
| | - Amir Hossein Faghfouri
- Student Research Committee, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran; Department of Community Nutrition, School of Nutrition and Food Sciences, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Majid Keramati
- Student Research Committee, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran; Department of Community Nutrition, School of Nutrition and Food Sciences, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Zohreh Ghoreishi
- Nutrition Research Center, Department of Clinical Nutrition, School of Nutrition and Food Sciences, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Alireza Farnam
- Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran; Research Center of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.
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7
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Turck D, Castenmiller J, De Henauw S, Hirsch‐Ernst KI, Kearney J, Knutsen HK, Maciuk A, Mangelsdorf I, McArdle HJ, Naska A, Pelaez C, Pentieva K, Thies F, Tsabouri S, Vinceti M, Bresson J, Siani A. Affron ® and increase in positive mood: evaluation of a health claim pursuant to Article 13(5) of Regulation (EC) No 1924/2006. EFSA J 2021; 19:e06660. [PMID: 34249157 PMCID: PMC8251646 DOI: 10.2903/j.efsa.2021.6669] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Following an application from Pharmactive Biotech Products, S.L. submitted for authorisation of a health claim pursuant to Article 13(5) of Regulation (EC) No 1924/2006 via the Competent Authority of Spain, the EFSA Panel on Nutrition, Novel Foods and Food Allergens (NDA) was asked to deliver an opinion on the scientific substantiation of a health claim related to affron® and contributes to maintain a healthy mood. The scope of the application was proposed to fall under a health claim based on newly developed scientific evidence. The food proposed by the applicant as the subject of the health claim is affron®, an aqueous saffron extract with a content of the sum of crocins and safranal typically between 3.5% and 3.9%. The Panel notes that affron® is sufficiently characterised. The claimed effect proposed by the applicant is 'contributes to maintain a healthy mood'. The Panel notes that increase in positive mood is a beneficial physiological effect for individuals with low mood or anxiety. One human intervention study showed that consumption of affron® at a dose of 28 mg/day for 4 weeks improves mood in a population of adults with low mood. However, the results have not been replicated in other studies. The information supplied by the applicant did not provide evidence for a plausible mechanism by which affron® could exert the claimed effect. The Panel concludes that the evidence is insufficient to establish a cause and effect relationship between the consumption of affron® and increase in positive mood.
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8
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Fotoohi A, Moloudi MR, Hosseini S, Hassanzadeh K, Feligioni M, Izadpanah E. A Novel Pharmacological Protective Role for Safranal in an Animal Model of Huntington's Disease. Neurochem Res 2021; 46:1372-1379. [PMID: 33611726 DOI: 10.1007/s11064-021-03271-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2020] [Revised: 02/05/2021] [Accepted: 02/10/2021] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Huntington's disease (HD) is a progressive, neurodegenerative and inherited disease and recent years have witnessed the understanding of the cellular and molecular mechanisms related to HD. Safranal, an organic compound isolated from saffron, has been reported to have anti-apoptotic, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activity and has studied in chronic and neurodegenerative disease. Therefore, this study was aimed to investigate the effect of safranal on 3-NP induced locomotor activity and biochemical alterations in rats. To this aim, 40 male Wistar rats weighting 250-300 g were divided into 5 groups (n = 8) including sham, 3-NP group (10 mg/kg) as control and treatment groups (3-NP + safranal 0.75, 1.5 and 3 mg/kg) in two weeks duration of treatment. Behavioral/movement assessments in addition to oxidant/antioxidant markers in rat cortex and striatum were evaluated in control and treatment groups. Here, we found that safranal significantly alleviated 3-NP-induced changes of body weight, rotarod activity, number of vacuous chewing movements (VCMs), and locomotor activity. In addition, brain tissue assessments in cortex and striatum revealed that safranal could prevent the elevation of nitrite and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels as well as decrease of superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase activity and glutathione (GSH) induced by 3-NP. In conclusion our results showed that safranal prevented the motor dysfunction induced by 3-NP in animal model of Huntington's disease. This effect might be due to its modulating effect on oxidants-antioxidant balance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahmad Fotoohi
- Student Research Committee, Kurdistan University of Medical Sciences, Sanandaj, Iran
| | - Mohammad Raman Moloudi
- Neurosciences Research Center, Research Institute for Health Development, Kurdistan University of Medical Sciences, Sanandaj, Iran
| | - Saed Hosseini
- Student Research Committee, Kurdistan University of Medical Sciences, Sanandaj, Iran
| | - Kambiz Hassanzadeh
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Research Institute for Health Development, Kurdistan University of Medical Sciences, Kudistan Province, Pasdaran Avenue, Sanandaj, Iran
- Laboratory of Neuronal Cell Signaling, EBRI Rita Levi-Montalcini Foundation, 00161, Rome, Italy
| | - Marco Feligioni
- Laboratory of Neuronal Cell Signaling, EBRI Rita Levi-Montalcini Foundation, 00161, Rome, Italy.
- Department of Neurorehabilitation Sciences, Casa di Cura del Policlinico, 20144, Milan, Italy.
| | - Esmael Izadpanah
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Research Institute for Health Development, Kurdistan University of Medical Sciences, Kudistan Province, Pasdaran Avenue, Sanandaj, Iran.
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9
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Monchaux De Oliveira C, Pourtau L, Vancassel S, Pouchieu C, Capuron L, Gaudout D, Castanon N. Saffron Extract-Induced Improvement of Depressive-Like Behavior in Mice Is Associated with Modulation of Monoaminergic Neurotransmission. Nutrients 2021; 13:nu13030904. [PMID: 33799507 PMCID: PMC8001199 DOI: 10.3390/nu13030904] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2021] [Revised: 03/01/2021] [Accepted: 03/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Depressive disorders represent a major public health concern and display a continuously rising prevalence. Importantly, a large proportion of patients develops aversive side effects and/or does not respond properly to conventional antidepressants. These issues highlight the need to identify further therapeutic strategies, including nutritional approaches using natural plant extracts with known beneficial impacts on health. In that context, growing evidence suggests that saffron could be a particularly promising candidate. This preclinical study aimed therefore to test its antidepressant-like properties in mice and to decipher the underlying mechanisms by focusing on monoaminergic neurotransmission, due to its strong implication in mood disorders. For this purpose, the behavioral and neurobiochemical impact of a saffron extract, Safr’Inside™ (6.5 mg/kg per os) was measured in naïve mice. Saffron extract reduced depressive-like behavior in the forced swim test. This behavioral improvement was associated with neurobiological modifications, particularly changes in serotonergic and dopaminergic neurotransmission, suggesting that Safr’Inside™ may share common targets with conventional pharmacological antidepressants. This study provides useful information on the therapeutic relevance of nutritional interventions with saffron extracts to improve management of mood disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Camille Monchaux De Oliveira
- INRAE, Nutrition and Integrative Neurobiology (NutriNeuro), UMR 1286, 33076 Bordeaux, France; (C.M.D.O.); (S.V.); (L.C.)
- Department of Life Science and Health, Nutrition and Integrative Neurobiology (NutriNeuro), Bordeaux University, UMR 1286, 33076 Bordeaux, France
- Activ’Inside, 33750 Beychac-et-Caillau, France; (L.P.); (C.P.); (D.G.)
| | - Line Pourtau
- Activ’Inside, 33750 Beychac-et-Caillau, France; (L.P.); (C.P.); (D.G.)
| | - Sylvie Vancassel
- INRAE, Nutrition and Integrative Neurobiology (NutriNeuro), UMR 1286, 33076 Bordeaux, France; (C.M.D.O.); (S.V.); (L.C.)
- Department of Life Science and Health, Nutrition and Integrative Neurobiology (NutriNeuro), Bordeaux University, UMR 1286, 33076 Bordeaux, France
| | - Camille Pouchieu
- Activ’Inside, 33750 Beychac-et-Caillau, France; (L.P.); (C.P.); (D.G.)
| | - Lucile Capuron
- INRAE, Nutrition and Integrative Neurobiology (NutriNeuro), UMR 1286, 33076 Bordeaux, France; (C.M.D.O.); (S.V.); (L.C.)
- Department of Life Science and Health, Nutrition and Integrative Neurobiology (NutriNeuro), Bordeaux University, UMR 1286, 33076 Bordeaux, France
| | - David Gaudout
- Activ’Inside, 33750 Beychac-et-Caillau, France; (L.P.); (C.P.); (D.G.)
| | - Nathalie Castanon
- INRAE, Nutrition and Integrative Neurobiology (NutriNeuro), UMR 1286, 33076 Bordeaux, France; (C.M.D.O.); (S.V.); (L.C.)
- Department of Life Science and Health, Nutrition and Integrative Neurobiology (NutriNeuro), Bordeaux University, UMR 1286, 33076 Bordeaux, France
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +33-5-57-57-45-05
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10
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Jackson PA, Forster J, Khan J, Pouchieu C, Dubreuil S, Gaudout D, Moras B, Pourtau L, Joffre F, Vaysse C, Bertrand K, Abrous H, Vauzour D, Brossaud J, Corcuff JB, Capuron L, Kennedy DO. Effects of Saffron Extract Supplementation on Mood, Well-Being, and Response to a Psychosocial Stressor in Healthy Adults: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Parallel Group, Clinical Trial. Front Nutr 2021; 7:606124. [PMID: 33598475 PMCID: PMC7882499 DOI: 10.3389/fnut.2020.606124] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2020] [Accepted: 12/21/2020] [Indexed: 01/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Anxiety, stress, and low mood are closely related and may contribute to depressive symptoms. Among non-pharmacological solutions to improve subclinical mood symptoms and resilience to stress, natural products such as saffron—identified as promising following preliminary beneficial effects in major depressive disorder—represent a relevant strategy. This study aimed to assess the efficacy of 8 weeks' supplementation with 30 mg standardized saffron extract on emotional well-being in healthy adults with subclinical feelings of low mood and anxiety and/or stress and evaluate the acute effect of saffron in response to a lab-based psychosocial stressor. The study adopted a double-blind, randomized, parallel groups design in which 56 healthy male and female individuals (18–54 years) received either a saffron extract or a placebo for 8 weeks. Chronic effects of saffron on subjective anxiety, stress, and depressive feelings were assessed using a questionnaire battery [including Profile of Mood State-2, (POMS)] and acute effects in response to a lab-based psychosocial stressor were measured through psychological and physiological parameters. Urinary crocetin levels were quantified. Participants who received the saffron extract reported reduced depression scores and improved social relationships at the end of the study. Urinary crocetin levels increased significantly with saffron supplementation and were correlated with change in depression scores. The typical stress-induced decrease in heart rate variability (HRV) during exposure to the stressor was attenuated following acute saffron intake. Saffron extract appears to improve subclinical depressive symptoms in healthy individuals and may contribute to increased resilience against the development of stress-related psychiatric disorders. Clinical trials number: NCT03639831.
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Affiliation(s)
- Philippa A Jackson
- Brain Performance and Nutrition Research Centre, Northumbria University, Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom
| | - Joanne Forster
- Brain Performance and Nutrition Research Centre, Northumbria University, Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom
| | - Julie Khan
- Brain Performance and Nutrition Research Centre, Northumbria University, Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Florent Joffre
- ITERG, Nutrition-Health & Lipid Biochemistry Department, Canéjan, France
| | - Carole Vaysse
- ITERG, Nutrition-Health & Lipid Biochemistry Department, Canéjan, France
| | - Karène Bertrand
- ITERG, Nutrition-Health & Lipid Biochemistry Department, Canéjan, France
| | - Hélène Abrous
- ITERG, Nutrition-Health & Lipid Biochemistry Department, Canéjan, France
| | - David Vauzour
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Biomedical Research Centre, Norwich Medical School, University of East Anglia, Norwich, United Kingdom
| | - Julie Brossaud
- Hormone Laboratory, Nuclear Medicine, CHU Bordeaux, UMR INRA 1286, University Bordeaux, Bordeaux, France
| | - Jean Benoit Corcuff
- Hormone Laboratory, Nuclear Medicine, CHU Bordeaux, UMR INRA 1286, University Bordeaux, Bordeaux, France
| | - Lucile Capuron
- Univ. Bordeaux, INRAE, Bordeaux INP, NutriNeuro, UMR 1286, Bordeaux, France
| | - David O Kennedy
- Brain Performance and Nutrition Research Centre, Northumbria University, Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom
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11
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Abu-Izneid T, Rauf A, Khalil AA, Olatunde A, Khalid A, Alhumaydhi FA, Aljohani ASM, Sahab Uddin M, Heydari M, Khayrullin M, Shariati MA, Aremu AO, Alafnan A, Rengasamy KRR. Nutritional and health beneficial properties of saffron ( Crocus sativus L): a comprehensive review. Crit Rev Food Sci Nutr 2020; 62:2683-2706. [PMID: 33327732 DOI: 10.1080/10408398.2020.1857682] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Saffron (Crocus sativus L., family Iridaceae) is used traditionally for medicinal purpose in Chinese, Ayurvedic, Persian and Unani medicines. The bioactive constituents such as apocarotenoids, monoterpenoids, flavonoids, phenolic acids and phytosterols are widely investigated in experimental and clinical studies for a wide range of therapeutic effects, especially on the nervous system. Some of the active constituents of saffron have high bioavailability and bioaccessibility and ability to pass the blood-brain barrier. Multiple preclinical and clinical studies have supported neuroprotective, anxiolytic, antidepressant, learning and memory-enhancing effect of saffron and its bioactive constituents (safranal, crocin, and picrocrocin). Thus, this plant and its active compounds could be a beneficial medicinal food ingredient in the formation of drugs targeting nervous system disorders. This review focuses on phytochemistry, bioaccessibility, bioavailability, and bioactivity of phytochemicals in saffron. Furthermore, the therapeutic effect of saffron against different nervous system disorders has also been discussed in detail.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tareq Abu-Izneid
- Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Al Ain University, Al Ain Campus, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
| | - Abdur Rauf
- Department of Chemistry, University of Swabi, Anbar, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan
| | - Anees Ahmed Khalil
- Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, Institute of Diet and Nutritional Sciences, The University of Lahore, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Ahmed Olatunde
- Department of Biochemistry, Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University, Bauchi, Nigeria
| | - Ahood Khalid
- Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, Institute of Diet and Nutritional Sciences, The University of Lahore, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Fahad A Alhumaydhi
- Department of Medical Laboratories, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Qassim University, Buraydah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Abdullah S M Aljohani
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, College of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Qassim University, Buraydah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Md Sahab Uddin
- Department of Pharmacy, Southeast University, Dhaka, Bangladesh.,Pharmakon Neuroscience Research Network, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Mojtaba Heydari
- Pharmaceutical Sciences Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Mars Khayrullin
- K.G. Razumovsky Moscow State University of Technologies and Management (the First Cossack University), Moscow, Russian Federation.,Plekhanov Russian University of Economics, Moscow, Russian Federation.,A. M. Prokhorov General Physics Institute, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, Russian Federation
| | - Mohammad Ali Shariati
- K.G. Razumovsky Moscow State University of Technologies and Management (the First Cossack University), Moscow, Russian Federation
| | - Adeyemi Oladapo Aremu
- Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences, Indigenous Knowledge Systems Centre, North-West University, Mahikeng, North West Province, South Africa
| | - Ahmed Alafnan
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, University of Hail, Hail, Saudi Arabia
| | - Kannan R R Rengasamy
- Institute of Research and Development, Duy Tan University, Da Nang, Vietnam.,Faculty of Environment and Chemical Engineering, Duy Tan University, Da Nang, Vietnam
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12
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Saeedi M, Rashidy-Pour A. Association between chronic stress and Alzheimer's disease: Therapeutic effects of Saffron. Biomed Pharmacother 2020; 133:110995. [PMID: 33232931 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2020.110995] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2020] [Revised: 10/28/2020] [Accepted: 11/01/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Chronic stress and high levels of glucocorticoids produce functional and structural changes in brain and especially in the hippocampus, an important limbic system structure that plays a key role in cognitive functions including learning and memory. Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a chronic neurodegenerative disease that usually starts slowly and worsens over time. Indeed, cognitive dysfunction, neuronal atrophy, and synaptic loss are associated with both AD and chronic stress. Recent preclinical and clinical studies have highlighted a possible link between chronic stress, cognitive decline and the development of AD. It is suggested that Tau protein is an essential mediator of the neurodegenerative effects of stress and glucocorticoids towards the development of AD pathology. Recent findings from animal and humans studies demonstrated that saffron and its main constitutive crocin are effective against chronic stress-induced cognitive dysfunction and oxidative stress and slowed cognitive decline in AD. The inhibitory actions on acetylcholinesterase activity, aggregation of beta-amyloid protein into amyloid plaques and tau protein into neurofibrillary tangles, and also the antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and the promotion of synaptic plasticity effects are among the possible mechanisms to explain the neuroprotective effects of saffron. New evidences demonstrate that saffron and its main component crocin might be a promising target for cognition improvement in AD and stress-related disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad Saeedi
- Student Research Committee, Semnan University of Medical Sciences, Semnan, Iran
| | - Ali Rashidy-Pour
- Research Center of Physiology, Semnan University of Medical Sciences, Semnan, Iran.
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13
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Orio L, Alen F, Ballesta A, Martin R, Gomez de Heras R. Antianhedonic and Antidepressant Effects of Affron ®, a Standardized Saffron ( Crocus Sativus L.) Extract. Molecules 2020; 25:molecules25143207. [PMID: 32679643 PMCID: PMC7397008 DOI: 10.3390/molecules25143207] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2020] [Revised: 07/06/2020] [Accepted: 07/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Anxiety and depression have high prevalence in the general population, affecting millions of people worldwide, but there is still a need for effective and safe treatments. Nutritional supplements have recently received a lot of attention, particularly saffron. Thus, several pre-clinical studies support a beneficial role for bioactive compounds, such as saffron, in anxiety and depression. Here we used an animal model of depression based on social isolation to assess the effects of affron®, a standardized saffron extract containing ≥3.5% of total bioactive compounds safranal and crocin isomers. Affron® was administered both through the oral and the intraperitoneal routes, and several tasks related to anxiety and depression, such as the elevated plus maze, the forced swimming test or the sucrose preference test, were assessed. These tasks model key features of depressive states and anxious states relating to fear, behavioral despair or anhedonia, the lack of motivation and/or pleasure from everyday activities, respectively. Animals receiving oral affron® displayed behaviors congruent with improvements in their anxious/depressive state, showing the enhanced consumption of a sweet solution, as well as an increase in certain escape responses in the forced swimming test. Our data support a beneficial role for oral saffron in anxious/depressive states.
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14
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Lopresti AL, Smith SJ, Hood SD, Drummond PD. Efficacy of a standardised saffron extract (affron®) as an add-on to antidepressant medication for the treatment of persistent depressive symptoms in adults: A randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled study. J Psychopharmacol 2019; 33:1415-1427. [PMID: 31475623 DOI: 10.1177/0269881119867703] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND As a stand-alone intervention, saffron has efficacy for the treatment of mild-to-moderate depression. However, research as an adjunct agent is limited. AIMS The effects of saffron as an adjunct to pharmaceutical antidepressants in adults with persistent depression was investigated. METHODS In this eight-week, randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled study, adults with persistent depression, currently taking a pharmaceutical antidepressant were given a placebo or a saffron extract (affron®, 14 mg b.i.d.). Primary outcome measures included the clinician-rated Montgomery-Åsberg Depression Rating Scale (MADRS) and self-rated MADRS (MADRS-S). Secondary outcome measures included the Antidepressant Side-Effect Checklist (ASEC) and Short Form-36 Health Survey (SF-36). RESULTS Of the 160 participants enrolled, 139 provided usable data. Based on the MADRS, depressive symptoms decreased more in participants taking saffron compared with a placebo, with reductions of 41 and 21%, respectively (p = 0.001). However, scores on the MADRS-S decreased 27 and 26% in the saffron and placebo conditions, respectively (p = 0.831). Saffron was associated with a greater reduction in adverse effects of antidepressants (p = 0.019), although this was non-significant after covarying for baseline values (p = 0.449). Quality of life improved in both groups with no significant between-group differences (p = 0.638). CONCLUSION Adjunctive administration of a standardised saffron extract (affron®) for eight weeks was associated with a greater improvement in depressive symptoms as measured by the clinician-rated MADRS but not the self-report MADRS-S. Given the conflicting results, further research is needed to clarify the clinical benefits of saffron as an adjunctive treatment for adults with persistent depressive symptoms despite antidepressant drug treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adrian L Lopresti
- College of Science, Health, Engineering and Education, Murdoch University, Perth, WA, Australia.,Clinical Research Australia, Perth, WA, Australia
| | - Stephen J Smith
- College of Science, Health, Engineering and Education, Murdoch University, Perth, WA, Australia.,Clinical Research Australia, Perth, WA, Australia
| | - Sean D Hood
- Division of Psychiatry, UWA Medical School, University of Western Australia, Perth, WA, Australia
| | - Peter D Drummond
- College of Science, Health, Engineering and Education, Murdoch University, Perth, WA, Australia
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15
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Marx W, Lane M, Rocks T, Ruusunen A, Loughman A, Lopresti A, Marshall S, Berk M, Jacka F, Dean OM. Effect of saffron supplementation on symptoms of depression and anxiety: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Nutr Rev 2019; 77:557-571. [PMID: 31135916 DOI: 10.1093/nutrit/nuz023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2023] Open
Abstract
CONTEXT Saffron (Crocus sativus L.) has gained interest as a potential treatment in psychiatry. OBJECTIVE This systematic review and meta-analysis sought to investigate the effect of saffron supplementation, as both an adjunctive therapy and monotherapy, on symptoms of depression and anxiety in clinical and general populations compared with pharmacotherapy or placebo. DATA SOURCES Using the PRISMA guidelines, a systematic literature review of randomized controlled trials was conducted. DATA EXTRACTION A meta-analysis was conducted to determine treatment effect. Risk of bias was assessed using the Jadad scale. RESULTS Twenty-three studies were included. Saffron had a large positive effect size when compared with placebo for depressive symptoms (g = 0.99, P < 0.001) and anxiety symptoms (g = 0.95, P < 0.006). Saffron also had a large positive effect size when used as an adjunct to antidepressants for depressive symptoms (g = 1.23, P = 0.028). Egger's regression test found evidence of publication bias. CONCLUSIONS Saffron could be an effective intervention for symptoms of depression and anxiety; however, due to evidence of publication bias and lack of regional diversity, further trials are required. PROSPERO registration CRD42017070060.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wolfgang Marx
- Food & Mood Centre, IMPACT SRC, School of Medicine, Deakin University, Geelong, Australia
| | - Melissa Lane
- Food & Mood Centre, IMPACT SRC, School of Medicine, Deakin University, Geelong, Australia
| | - Tetyana Rocks
- Food & Mood Centre, IMPACT SRC, School of Medicine, Deakin University, Geelong, Australia
| | - Anu Ruusunen
- Food & Mood Centre, IMPACT SRC, School of Medicine, Deakin University, Geelong, Australia
- Department of Psychiatry, Kuopio University Hospital, Kuopio, Finland, and the Institute of Public Health and Clinical Nutrition, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio, Finland
| | - Amy Loughman
- Food & Mood Centre, IMPACT SRC, School of Medicine, Deakin University, Geelong, Australia
| | - Adrian Lopresti
- School of Psychology and Exercise Science, Murdoch University, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Skye Marshall
- Faculty of Health Sciences & Medicine, Bond University, Robina, Queensland, Australia
| | - Michael Berk
- IMPACT SRC, School of Medicine, Barwon Health, Deakin University, Geelong, Australia
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia, and Orygen, the National Centre of Excellence in Youth Mental Health, Centre for Youth Mental Health and the Florey Institute for Neuroscience and Mental Health, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Felice Jacka
- Food & Mood Centre, IMPACT SRC, School of Medicine, Deakin University, Geelong, Australia
- Centre for Adolescent Health, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Victoria, Australia, and the Black Dog Institute, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Olivia M Dean
- IMPACT SRC, School of Medicine, Barwon Health, Deakin University, Geelong, Australia
- Florey Institute for Neuroscience and Mental Health, and the Department of Psychiatry, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Australia
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16
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Moderating effects of crocin on some stress oxidative markers in rat brain following demyelination with ethidium bromide. Heliyon 2019; 5:e01213. [PMID: 30815598 PMCID: PMC6378371 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2019.e01213] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2018] [Revised: 12/22/2018] [Accepted: 02/01/2019] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of Crocin on oxidative markers (GPx, SOD, MDA) in animal model of demyelination with Ethidium bromide (EB). Methods Female Wistar rats were assigned in to 4 groups; Sham, with no receiving any agent (Sham), Sham Operated group with injection of EB into the brain received no agent (SO), Sham Treatment group with injection of EB and receiving PBS as vehicle and Treatment group with injection of EB and receiving Crocin (100 mg/kg). Demyelination was induced by single dose injection of 10 μl of EB 0.1% into the Cisterna magna of the brain. Crocin was diluted and applied to each animal for 21 days, once per day gavage. The levels of oxidative markers (GPx, SOD and MDA) were measured by related standard kits. Data were analyzed by paired t-test and ANOVA with post hoc test. Results The results showed that crocin decreases the levels of GPx and SOD significantly as well as MDA level after 21 days (α ≤ 0.05). In addition, results showed that there were significant differences in the GPx, SOD and MDA levels between all groups at post treatment phase (α ≤ 0.05). Conclusion It can be concluded that crocin can moderate the level of oxidative markers after demyelination of the brain cells in MS cases. Due to this effect, crocin can be considered as an effective anti-oxidant in management of degenerative nervous system diseases.
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17
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Sahraei H, Askaripour M, Esmaeilpour K, Shahsavari F, Rajabi S, Moradi-Kor N. GABA B receptor activation ameliorates spatial memory impairments in stress-exposed rats. Neuropsychiatr Dis Treat 2019; 15:1497-1506. [PMID: 31213819 PMCID: PMC6549409 DOI: 10.2147/ndt.s205951] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2019] [Accepted: 05/14/2019] [Indexed: 01/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective: Due to the prevalence of stress in modern life and its impact on spatial memory, the role of inhibitory systems in brain areas such as the nucleus accumbens (NAc) in reducing stress is important. The current study aimed to examine the response of NAc shell GABAB receptors to stress and the role of intraperitoneally (i.p.) and intra-NAc injection of the GABAB receptor agonist baclofen on spatial memory impairments in stress-exposed rats. Methods: Eighty adult male Wistar rats were randomly divided into ten groups (n=8): two were control groups for intra-NAc and i.p baclofen; two groups were subjected to stress and injected with saline (baclofen vehicle); three groups were given baclofen (1, 5, and 10 µg/rat) intra-NAc 5 mins before stress was induced; and three groups received baclofen (1, 5, and 10 mg/kg/i.p.) 30 mins before being subjected to stress. Foot-shock stress was applied for 7 consecutive days. Behavioral assays using the Barnes maze were performed 24 hrs after the last baclofen injection. Results: Both the intra-NAc and the i.p administration of baclofen dose-dependently reduced escape latency and total distance and increased velocity in the treatment groups in the training trials. In the probe test, the rats that had received 5 mg/kg of baclofen had the highest target frequency, but there no significant differences were observed in velocity, duration, or distance to the target between the groups. Conclusion: According to the findings, baclofen can dose-dependently improve spatial memory, and GABAB receptor in the NAc plays an important role in spatial memory.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hedayat Sahraei
- Neuroscience Research Center, Baqiyatallah University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Majid Askaripour
- Neuroscience Research Center, Baqiyatallah University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Khadijeh Esmaeilpour
- Neuroscience Research Center, Institute of Neuropharmacology, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Fatemeh Shahsavari
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Shahid Bahonar University, Kerman, Iran
| | - Soodeh Rajabi
- Physiology Research Center and Department of Physiology, Institute of Basic and Clinical Physiology Sciences, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
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18
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Ahmad B, Shrivastava VK, Saleh R, Henkel R, Agarwal A. Protective effects of saffron against zearalenone-induced alterations in reproductive hormones in female mice ( Mus musculus). Clin Exp Reprod Med 2018; 45:163-169. [PMID: 30538946 PMCID: PMC6277668 DOI: 10.5653/cerm.2018.45.4.163] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2018] [Revised: 10/02/2018] [Accepted: 10/16/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective Zearalenone (ZEA) is a mycotoxin with potent estrogenic effects. Saffron is an herbal product that has antioxidant activities. The objective of this study was to investigate the protective role of saffron against reproductive toxicity induced by ZEA in female mice. Methods Ninety 8-week-old female mice were randomly allocated into three treatment groups. The first group received an intraperitoneal injection of ZEA (2.5 mg/kg) on alternate days. The second group received ZEA (2.5 mg/kg) on alternate days plus oral saffron daily (50 mg/kg). The third group was treated with a vehicle of 1% dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) on alternate days, as a control. Ten mice were euthanized from each group at 30, 60, and 90 days of treatment. Serum levels of luteinizing hormone (LH), follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), estradiol (E2), and progesterone (P) were assessed. The uterus and ovaries were examined for changes in size or morphology. Results Serum levels of LH, FSH, E2, and P in the female mice treated with ZEA plus saffron were significantly higher than in those treated with ZEA alone, and were not significantly different from those treated with 1% DMSO. The female mice treated with ZEA alone showed a reduction in size of the uterus and abnormal architecture of the ovaries. Conclusion The administration of saffron to female mice resulted in a significant reduction in ZEA-induced alterations in reproductive hormone levels, the size of the uterus, and the morphology of the ovaries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bashir Ahmad
- Laboratory of Endocrinology, Department of Bioscience, Barkatullah University, Bhopal, India
| | - Vinoy K Shrivastava
- Laboratory of Endocrinology, Department of Bioscience, Barkatullah University, Bhopal, India
| | - Ramadan Saleh
- Department of Dermatology, Venereology and Andrology, Faculty of Medicine, Sohag University, Sohag, Egypt
| | - Ralf Henkel
- Department of Medical Bioscience, University of the Western Cape, Bellville, South Africa
| | - Ashok Agarwal
- American Center for Reproductive Medicine, Urological Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
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19
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Lopresti AL, Drummond PD, Inarejos-García AM, Prodanov M. affron ®, a standardised extract from saffron (Crocus sativus L.) for the treatment of youth anxiety and depressive symptoms: A randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled study. J Affect Disord 2018; 232:349-357. [PMID: 29510352 DOI: 10.1016/j.jad.2018.02.070] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2017] [Revised: 02/17/2018] [Accepted: 02/25/2018] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Saffron has antidepressant and anxiolytic effects in adults with mild-to-moderate depression. However, this is the first study examining its mood-related effects in teenagers. METHODS In this 8-week, randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled study, youth aged 12-16 years, with mild-to-moderate anxiety or depressive symptoms were given tablets containing placebo or a saffron extract (affron®, 14 mg b.i.d). The youth and parent versions of the Revised Child Anxiety and Depression Scale (RCADS) were used as outcome measures. RESULTS 80 participants were enrolled and 68 completed the study. Based on youth self-reports, affron® was associated with greater improvements in overall internalising symptoms (p = 0.049), separation anxiety (p = 0.003), social phobia (p = 0.023), and depression (p = 0.016). Total internalising scores decreased by an average of 33% compared to 17% in the placebo group (p = 0.029). However, parental reports of improvements were inconsistent as mean improvements in RCADS scores were greater in the saffron group (40% vs 26%) (p = 0.026), although no other significant differences were identified. affron® was well-tolerated and there was a trend of reduced headaches in participants on the active treatment. LIMITATIONS The use of a self-report instrument, limited study duration, single treatment dose, and non-clinical sample used in this study limit the generalisability of study findings. CONCLUSION The administration of a standardised saffron extract (affron®) for 8 weeks improved anxiety and depressive symptoms in youth with mild-to-moderate symptoms, at least from the perspective of the adolescent. However, these beneficial effects were inconsistently corroborated by parents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adrian L Lopresti
- School of Psychology and Exercise Science, Murdoch University, Perth, Western Australia 6150, Australia.
| | - Peter D Drummond
- School of Psychology and Exercise Science, Murdoch University, Perth, Western Australia 6150, Australia
| | | | - Marin Prodanov
- Instituto de Investigación en Ciencias de la Alimentación CIAL (CEI CSIC-UAM), C/ Nicolás Cabrera, 9, 28049 Madrid, Spain
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20
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Shafiee M, Arekhi S, Omranzadeh A, Sahebkar A. Saffron in the treatment of depression, anxiety and other mental disorders: Current evidence and potential mechanisms of action. J Affect Disord 2018; 227:330-337. [PMID: 29136602 DOI: 10.1016/j.jad.2017.11.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 86] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2017] [Revised: 09/28/2017] [Accepted: 11/06/2017] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Depression and anxiety are two common mental health problems with high economic and social costs. Currently, a number of treatments are available for patients with depression and anxiety disorders such as psychotherapy, electroconvulsive therapy and antidepressant drugs. Due to safety concerns, adverse effects, limited efficacy and low tolerability associated with many antidepressant and anti-anxiety medications, identification of novel agents with less toxicity and more favorable outcome is warranted. METHODS The current article provides a non-systematic review of the available in vitro, in vivo and clinical evidence on the efficacy, safety and mechanisms of action of saffron and its active ingredients in the treatment of anxiety, depression and other mental disorders. RESULTS Several interesting data have been reported about the antidepressant and anti-anxiety properties of saffron, the dried stigmas of Crocus sativus L., in several preclinical and clinical studies. In particular, a number of clinical trials demonstrated that saffron and its active constituents possess antidepressant properties similar to those of current antidepressant medications such as fluoxetine, imipramine and citalopram, but with fewer reported side effects. CONCLUSION Saffron may exert antidepressant effects and represents an efficacious and safe treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mojtaba Shafiee
- Department of Nutrition, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran; Student Research Committee, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Soheil Arekhi
- Student Research Committee, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran; Evidence Based Medicine Research Group, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Alireza Omranzadeh
- Student Research Committee, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran; Evidence Based Medicine Research Group, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Amirhossein Sahebkar
- Biotechnology Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran; School of Pharmacy, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran.
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Tabeshpour J, Sobhani F, Sadjadi SA, Hosseinzadeh H, Mohajeri SA, Rajabi O, Taherzadeh Z, Eslami S. A double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial of saffron stigma (Crocus sativus L.) in mothers suffering from mild-to-moderate postpartum depression. PHYTOMEDICINE : INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PHYTOTHERAPY AND PHYTOPHARMACOLOGY 2017; 36:145-152. [PMID: 29157808 DOI: 10.1016/j.phymed.2017.10.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2017] [Revised: 07/27/2017] [Accepted: 10/05/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Numerous adverse effects of antidepressants as well as the attitudes of breastfeeding mothers, who prefer to consume herbal medicine rather than chemical drugs, encouraged us to assess the effects of saffron (Crocus sativus L.) on mothers suffering from mild-to-moderate postpartum depressive disorder. METHODS A double-blind, randomized, and placebo-controlled trial was conducted on 60 new mothers who had a maximum score of 29 on the Beck Depression Inventory-Second Edition (BDI-II). They were randomly assigned to the saffron (15 mg/Bid) or placebo group. The primary outcome was a change in the BDI-II scores 8 weeks after treatment compared to the baseline. The response and remission rates were considered to be secondary outcome measures. RESULTS Saffron had a more significant impact on the BDI-II scores than the placebo. The mean BDI-II scores decreased from 20.3 ± 5.7 to 8.4 ± 3.7 for the saffron group (p < .0001) and from 19.8 ± 3.2 to 15.1 ± 5.4 for the placebo group (p < .01). In the final assessment, 96% of the saffron group were in remission compared to 43% of the placebo group (p < .01). The complete response rates were 6% for the placebo group and 66% for the saffron group. CONCLUSION When administered to treat minor PPD in breastfeeding mothers, saffron had a more significant impact on the BDI-II than the placebo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jamshid Tabeshpour
- Department of pharmacodynamy and Toxicology, School of Pharmacy, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran; Student Research Committee, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Farzaneh Sobhani
- Targeted Drug Delivery Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Seyed Alireza Sadjadi
- Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Hossein Hosseinzadeh
- Pharmaceutical Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Seyed Ahmad Mohajeri
- Pharmaceutical research center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Omid Rajabi
- Department of Pharmaceutical Control, School of Pharmacy, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Zhila Taherzadeh
- Neurogenic Inflammation Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran.
| | - Saeid Eslami
- Pharmaceutical Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
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22
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Asalgoo S, Tat M, Sahraei H, Pirzad Jahromi G. The Psychoactive Agent Crocin Can Regulate Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Adrenal Axis Activity. Front Neurosci 2017; 11:668. [PMID: 29249934 PMCID: PMC5717018 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2017.00668] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2017] [Accepted: 11/16/2017] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) occurs following life-threatening events. The activity of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, which serves as the first line of defense against stress, is dysfunctional in this disorder. The current study aimed to investigate the role of Crocin in normalizing HPA function in an animal model of PTSD induced by electric foot shock. Rats were treated with Crocin 5 min prior to stress induction. The stimulus was re-introduced after 21 days, and we measured individual behaviors such as sniffing, rearing, grooming, and freezing. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays were performed to measure plasma levels of Corticosterone. On day 28, after rats were weighed and sacrificed, the adrenal and thymus glands were removed and subjected to real-time polymerase chain reaction to quantify the gene expression of corticotrophin-releasing hormone (CRH), glucocorticoid receptor (GluR), and arginine vasopressin (AVP). Our results demonstrate that rats re-exposed to a stressor developed characteristic symptoms of PTSD, but these were attenuated by Crocin. Treated rats showed significant changes in CRH expression in the hypothalamus, GluR expression in the pituitary, plasma Corticosterone levels, and freezing behavior. Together, these findings suggest that Crocin can regulate HPA axis activity in PTSD. It may serve an appropriate treatment for subjects who experience a traumatic event.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Asalgoo
- Behavioral Sciences Research Center, Baqiyatallah University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mahdi Tat
- Applied Virology Research Center, Baqiyatallah University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Hedayat Sahraei
- Neuroscience Research Centre, Baqiyatallah University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Gila Pirzad Jahromi
- Neuroscience Research Centre, Baqiyatallah University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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23
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Ranjbaran M, Aghaei H, Hajihoseinlou V, Sahraei H, Ranjbaran K. Transient Inactivation of Shell Part of Nucleus Accumbens Inhibits and Exacerbates Stress-Induced Metabolic Alterations in Wistar Rats. Basic Clin Neurosci 2017; 8:121-128. [PMID: 28539996 PMCID: PMC5440921 DOI: 10.18869/nirp.bcn.8.2.121] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction: The role of different parts of the extended amygdala in metabolic signs of stress is not well understood. In the present study, we decided to evaluate the impact of the shell part of nucleus accumbens (NAc) on metabolic disturbance induced by electro foot shock stress using transient inactivation method in the rat. Methods: Male Wistar rats (W: 230–250 g) were canuulated unilaterally in the shell part of nucleus accumbens and left one week for recovery. Five minutes before each stress session, the animals either received sterile saline (0.25 μl/side) (control) or lidocaine 2% (0.25 μl/side) (experiment). Blood samples were taken from rats’ retro-orbital sinus for plasma corticosterone measurements. In addition, animals’ weight gain, food and water intake, locomotor activity, and rearing were recorded. Results: Stress reduced weight gain and food intake, increased water intake and plasma corticosterone level, and reduces locomotor activity and rearing. Transient inactivation of the right side of the NAc inhibits the stress effect on weight gain, water intake and plasma corticosterone level, but not food intake. However, when the left side of the NAc was inactivated, only weight gain was affected and other parameters were not differing from stress group. Even thought, the plasma corticosterone level was elevated. Conclusion: In conclusion, our data indicated that right side of shell part of NAc transient inactivation leads to reduction in metabolic signs of stress but left side of shell part of the NAc inactivation even exacerbates stress signs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mina Ranjbaran
- Neuroscience Research Center, Baqiyatallah University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Hassan Aghaei
- Neuroscience Research Center, Baqiyatallah University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Vahdat Hajihoseinlou
- Neuroscience Research Center, Baqiyatallah University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Hedayat Sahraei
- Neuroscience Research Center, Baqiyatallah University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Katayoon Ranjbaran
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Campus of Shahid Bahonar, Farhangiaan University, Hamadan, Iran
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24
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Javadifar TS, Sahraei H, Ketabi MA, Nasehi M, Zarrindast MR. Transient inactivation of the nucleus accumbens (NAc) shell prominently ameliorates responses to acute stress in female rats. Brain Res 2016; 1649:1-8. [PMID: 27421178 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainres.2016.07.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2015] [Revised: 06/23/2016] [Accepted: 07/11/2016] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
It is clear that the stress response differs between females and males. Moreover, the nucleus accumbens shell is considered a critical area in the brain's response to stress. In the present study we investigate the effect of the transient inactivation of the NAc shell on the metabolic and hormonal disturbance induced by acute stress in female rats. Female Wistar rats were canulated uni- or bilaterally in the NAc shell before stress induction. Electric foot shock was applied to the animals and lidocaine hydrochloride was administered intra-acumbally 5min before each stress session. Food and water intake, delay to eating time, plasma corticosterone, estradiol and progesterone were measured after stress administration. Our results indicate that food intake increased whereas water intake decreased in stress group, furthermore, delay in the onset of eating also was observed. In addition, plasma corticosterone and progesterone concentrations were increased whereas estradiol was decreased. Transient inactivation of right side of NAc shell inhibited the stress effect on food intake; however, the effect of stress was exacerbated when the left part of the NAc shell was inhibited. Transient inactivation of both NAc shell sides augmented the stress effect on water intake. The same results also obtained for the effect of stress on delay to eating time. Lidocaine administration inhibited the effects of stress on all of the hormones we tested. It can be concluded that the NAc shell plays an important role in the mediation of stress responses in female rats and this influence shows asymmetrical manner.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Hedayat Sahraei
- Neuroscience Research Center, Baqiyatallah (a.s) University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohammad-Ali Ketabi
- Department of Endodontics, School of dentistry, Aja University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohammad Nasehi
- Cognitive and Neuroscience Research Center, CNRC, Tehran Medical Science Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohammad-Reza Zarrindast
- Institute for Cognitive Science Studies (ICSS), Tehran, Iran; Cognitive and Neuroscience Research Center, CNRC, Tehran Medical Science Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran; Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran; School of Cognitive Sciences, Institute for Research in Fundamental Sciences (IPM), Tehran, Iran; Iranian National Center for Addiction Studies, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran; Substance Abuse and Dependence Research Center, University of School Welfare and Rehabilitation Sciences, Tehran Iran.
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25
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Dalooei JR, Sahraei H, Meftahi GH, Khosravi M, Bahari Z, Hatef B, Mohammadi A, Nicaeili F, Eftekhari F, Ghamari F, Hadipour M, Kaka G. Temporary amygdala inhibition reduces stress effects in female mice. J Adv Res 2016; 7:643-9. [PMID: 27489731 PMCID: PMC4950119 DOI: 10.1016/j.jare.2016.06.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2016] [Revised: 06/21/2016] [Accepted: 06/26/2016] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
The current study investigated the effect of temporary inhibition of amygdala in response to metabolic changes caused by stress in female mice. Unilateral and bilateral amygdala cannulation was carried out, and after a week of recovery, 2% lidocaine hydrochloride was injected into the mice amygdalae five minutes before the induction of stress. A communication box was employed to induce stress for four consecutive days and plasma corticosterone, food and water intake, weight changes, and anorexia were measured as stress-induced metabolic changes. Results demonstrated that stress, increases stress, increased plasma corticosterone concentrations, weight, food, and water intake. Temporary inhibition of the amygdala slightly decreased plasma corticosterone concentrations, but did not fully reduce the effect of stress. The bilateral injection of lidocaine hydrochloride to the amygdala reduced the effect of stress and reduced water intake and weight. Unilateral injection of lidocaine hydrochloride into the left and right amygdala reduced food intake. In conclusion, the present study demonstrated that the left side and right side of amygdala nuclei play a different role in metabolic responses in stress.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Hedayat Sahraei
- Neuroscience Research Center, Baqiyatallah University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | | | - Maryam Khosravi
- Department of Biology, Islamic Azad University, North Tehran Branch, Tehran, Iran
| | - Zahra Bahari
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Faculty of Medicine, Baqiyatallah University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Boshra Hatef
- Neuroscience Research Center, Baqiyatallah University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Alireza Mohammadi
- Neuroscience Research Center, Baqiyatallah University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Fateme Nicaeili
- Department of Biology, Islamic Azad University, North Tehran Branch, Tehran, Iran
| | - Fateme Eftekhari
- Department of Biology, Islamic Azad University, North Tehran Branch, Tehran, Iran
| | - Fateme Ghamari
- Department of Biology, Islamic Azad University, North Tehran Branch, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohamadmehdi Hadipour
- Neuroscience Research Center, Baqiyatallah University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Gholamreza Kaka
- Neuroscience Research Center, Baqiyatallah University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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26
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Ahrazem O, Rubio-Moraga A, Nebauer SG, Molina RV, Gómez-Gómez L. Saffron: Its Phytochemistry, Developmental Processes, and Biotechnological Prospects. JOURNAL OF AGRICULTURAL AND FOOD CHEMISTRY 2015; 63:8751-64. [PMID: 26414550 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jafc.5b03194] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/07/2023]
Abstract
The present state of knowledge concerning developmental processes and the secondary metabolism of saffron, Crocus sativus L. (Iridaceae), along with the genes involved in these processes so far known, is reviewed. Flowers and corms constitute the most valuable parts of saffron. Corm and flower development are two key aspects to be studied in saffron to increase the yield and quality of the spice, to raise its reproductive rate, and to implement new production systems. Important knowledge about the physiology of flowering and vegetative growth has been acquired in recent years, but there is still only limited information on molecular mechanisms controlling these processes. Although some genes involved in flower formation and meristem transition in other species have been isolated in saffron, the role of these genes in this species awaits further progress. Also, genes related with the synthesis pathway of abscisic acid and strigolactones, growth regulators related with bud endodormancy and apical dominance (paradormancy), have been isolated. However, the in-depth understanding of these processes as well as of corm development is far from being achieved. By contrast, saffron phytochemicals have been widely studied. The different flower tissues and the corm have been proved to be an important source of phytochemicals with pharmacological properties. The biotechnological prospects for saffron are here reviewed on the basis of the discovery of the enzymes involved in key aspects of saffron secondary metabolism, and we also analyze the possibility of transferring current knowledge about flowering and vegetative propagation in model species to the Crocus genus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oussama Ahrazem
- Instituto Botánico, Departamento de Ciencia y Tecnologı́a Agroforestal y Genética, Facultad de Farmacia, Universidad de Castilla-La Mancha , Campus Universitario s/n, 02071 Albacete, Spain
- Fundación Parque Cientı́fico y Tecnológico de Castilla-La Mancha , Campus Universitario s/n, 02071 Albacete, Spain
| | - Angela Rubio-Moraga
- Instituto Botánico, Departamento de Ciencia y Tecnologı́a Agroforestal y Genética, Facultad de Farmacia, Universidad de Castilla-La Mancha , Campus Universitario s/n, 02071 Albacete, Spain
| | - Sergio G Nebauer
- Departamento de Biologı́a Vegetal, Universidad Politécnica de Valencia , 46071 Valencia, Spain
| | - Rosa Victoria Molina
- Departamento de Biologı́a Vegetal, Universidad Politécnica de Valencia , 46071 Valencia, Spain
| | - Lourdes Gómez-Gómez
- Instituto Botánico, Departamento de Ciencia y Tecnologı́a Agroforestal y Genética, Facultad de Farmacia, Universidad de Castilla-La Mancha , Campus Universitario s/n, 02071 Albacete, Spain
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27
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Lopresti AL, Drummond PD. Saffron (Crocus sativus) for depression: a systematic review of clinical studies and examination of underlying antidepressant mechanisms of action. Hum Psychopharmacol 2014; 29:517-27. [PMID: 25384672 DOI: 10.1002/hup.2434] [Citation(s) in RCA: 102] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2014] [Revised: 07/08/2014] [Accepted: 07/18/2014] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Saffron, a spice derived from the flower of Crocus sativus, has now undergone several trials examining its antidepressant effects and, in a recent meta-analysis, was confirmed to be effective for the treatment of major depression. OBJECTIVE To provide an expanded systematic analysis of the completed clinical studies on saffron and depression, detailing dosages, extract sources, standardisations, safety profile and treatment duration; and, through a narrative review, to examine its potential antidepressant mechanisms of action. DESIGN In the systematic review of clinical trials, electronic databases were searched for high-quality, randomised, double-blind studies, with placebo or antidepressant controls. A narrative review of in vivo and in vitro studies was conducted to examine its potential antidepressant mechanisms of action. RESULTS In the systematic review, six studies were identified. In the placebo-comparison trials, saffron had large treatment effects and, when compared with antidepressant medications, had similar antidepressant efficacy. Saffron's antidepressant effects potentially are due to its serotonergic, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, neuro-endocrine and neuroprotective effects. CONCLUSIONS Research conducted so far provides initial support for the use of saffron for the treatment of mild-to-moderate depression. Further research is required to expand our understanding of the role and actions of saffron in major depression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adrian L Lopresti
- School of Psychology and Exercise Science, Murdoch University, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
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28
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Inhibitory effect of NMDA receptors in the ventral tegmental area on hormonal and eating behavior responses to stress in rats. Behav Neurol 2014; 2014:294149. [PMID: 25177106 PMCID: PMC4143587 DOI: 10.1155/2014/294149] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2014] [Revised: 06/29/2014] [Accepted: 07/22/2014] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Stress and its consequences are among the causes of accidents. OBJECTIVE The effects of intraventral tegmental area (I-VTA) memantine on the plasma corticosterone and eating parameters disturbance induced by acute stress were investigated. METHODS Male Wistar rats (W: 250-300 g) were divided into control and experiential groups, each of which received memantine either intra-VTA or peripherally. One week after bilateral cannulation, the rats received memantine (1 and 5 μg/Rat) five min before electroshock stress. The other experimental groups received memantine (1 and 5 mg/kg) intraperitoneally 30 min before stress. The control groups received saline or memantine but did not experience stress. Food and water intake and plasma corticosterone level were recorded. RESULTS Results showed that stress decreases food intake but does not change water intake and increase in plasma corticosterone level. Intraperitoneal memantine administration slightly inhibits the stress effects on food intake. However, water intake and plasma corticosterone level were increased. Intra-VTA memantine reduces the effects of stress on corticosterone and water intake. CONCLUSION It could be concluded that inhibition of glutamate NMDA receptors in the VTA by memantine leads to the inhibition of the eating behavior parameters and plasma corticosterone level disturbance induced by stress in rats.
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29
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Samarghandian S, Shoshtari ME, Sargolzaei J, Hossinimoghadam H, Farahzad JA. Anti-tumor activity of safranal against neuroblastoma cells. Pharmacogn Mag 2014; 10:S419-24. [PMID: 24991121 PMCID: PMC4078354 DOI: 10.4103/0973-1296.133296] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2012] [Revised: 05/16/2012] [Accepted: 05/28/2014] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective: Safranal (2,6,6-trimethyl-1,3-cyclohexadiene-1-carboxaldehyde, C10H14O) is an active ingredient in the saffron, which is used in traditional medicine, and also, the biological activity of saffron in anti-cancer is in development. It has been reported to have anti-oxidant effects, but its anti-tumor effects remain uncertain. The aim of this study was to evaluate effects of safranal on anti-tumor on neuroblastoma cells. Materials and Methods: Neuroblastoma cells were cultured and exposed to safranal (0, 10, 15, 20, 50 μg/ml). Cell proliferation was examined using the 3-(4, 5-dimethyl thiazol-2-yl)-2, 5-diphenyl tetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay. Apoptotic cells, cell cycle distribution, and sub-G1 fraction were analyzed using flow cytometric analysis after propidium iodide staining. Results: Safranal inhibited the growth of malignant cells in a dose-and time-dependent manner. The IC (50) values against the neuroblastoma cell line were determined as 11.1 and 23.3 μg/ml after 24 and 48 h, respectively. Safranal induced a sub-G1 peak in the flow cytometry histogram of treated cells compared to control cells indicating that apoptotic cell death is involved in safranal toxicity. Conclusions: Our pre-clinical study demonstrated a neuroblastoma cell line to be highly sensitive to safranal-mediated growth inhibition and apoptotic cell death. Although the molecular mechanisms of safranal action are not yet clearly understood, it appears to have potential as a therapeutic agent.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saeed Samarghandian
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Neyshabur University of Medical Sciences, Neyshabur, Iran
| | - Mohammad Ebrahim Shoshtari
- Preventive Cardiovascular Care Research Center, Imam Reza Hospital, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Javad Sargolzaei
- Immunology Research Center, BuAli Research Institute, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Hosna Hossinimoghadam
- Immunology Research Center, BuAli Research Institute, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Jabbari Azad Farahzad
- Allergy Research Center, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
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