Neuroprotective Activity of Hypericum perforatum and Its Major Components

Tissue Regeneration and Remodeling in Rat Models after Application of Hypericum perforatum L. Extract-Loaded Bigels

The wound-healing effect of St. John's Wort (SJW) is mainly attributed to hyperforin (HP), but its low stability restricts its topical administration. This study investigates how "free" HP-rich SJW extract (incorporated into a bigel; B/SJW) and extract "protected" by nanostructured lipid carriers (also included in a biphasic semisolid; B/NLC-SJW) affect tissue regeneration in a rat skin excision wound model. Wound diameter, histological changes, and tissue gene expression levels of fibronectin (Fn), matrix metalloproteinase 8 (MMP8), and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) were employed to quantify the healing progress. A significant wound size reduction was achieved after applying both extract-containing semisolids, but after a 21-day application period, the smallest wound size was observed in the B/NLC-SJW-treated animals. However, the inflammatory response was affected more favorably by the bigel containing the "free" SJW extract, as evidenced by histological studies. Moreover, after the application of B/SJW, the expression of Fn, MMP8, and TNF-α was significantly higher than in the positive control. In conclusion, both bigel formulations exhibited beneficial effects on wound healing in rat skin, but B/SJW affected skin restoration processes in a comprehensive and more efficient way.

Ganoderma lucidum and Hypericum perforatum Exhibit Anti-Inflammatory, Antioxidant, and Anti-Androgen Effect in Rat Model of Experimental Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome

OBJECTIVE

Chronic inflammation is considered to be of key importance in the pathogenesis of polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS). Ganoderma lucidum polysaccharide (GLP) and Hypericum perforatum (HP) have been reported to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities. We studied the effects of these agents on ovarian tissue in a rat model of experimental PCOS.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Forty-two Sprague-Dawley female rats were divided into 6 groups with 7 animals in each group as listed below: Group 1: Control, Group 2: PCOS, Group 3: PCOS + HP, Group 4: HP only, Group 5: PCOS+ GLP, Group 6: GLP only. At the end of the experimental procedures, all the animals underwent bilateral oophorectomy and blood samples were collected. Ovarian tissue and blood samples were used for biochemical and histopathological analysis.

RESULTS

Follicle degeneration in the PCOS group showed a statistically significant increase compared to the other groups (p < 0.05). Cystic follicles were significantly reduced in the PCOS+GLP and PCOS+HP groups as compared to the PCOS group. Levels of tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) and interleukin-6 (IL-6) were elevated in PCOS rats (p < 0.01). Levels of sex hormone binding globulin (SHBG) levels were diminished (p < 0.01). Levels of malondialdehyde (MDA) and insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) were increased in PCOS rats as compared to the other groups (p < 0.02, p < 0.02, respectively). GLP supplementation diminished the levels of IGF-1 and MDA. GLP or HP supplementation increased reduced glutathione (GSH).

CONCLUSION

GLP and HP treatment normalizes SHBG levels while correcting PCOS-induced hyperandrogenemia. Both herbs regulate the redox balance by decreasing the levels of MDA and increasing the level of GSH.

The Effect of St. John's Wort Oil (Hypericum Perforatum L.) in Knee Osteoarthritis: A Randomized Controlled and Qualitative Study

BACKGROUND

Reducing pain and improving physical function are critical in the treatment of osteoarthritis. Although individuals use St. John's Wort oil to relieve pain due to osteoarthritis, no scientific research has been found investigating its effectiveness.

AIM

This study investigated the effect of St. John's Wort oil on pain intensity and physical functions in people with knee osteoarthritis.

METHODS

This study adopted a single-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled, and qualitative mixed design. The sample consisted of 60 patients randomized into intervention (n = 30) and placebo control (n=30) groups. The experimental group participants were treated with topically St. John's Wort oil three times a week for 3 weeks, and the placebo control group participants were treated with olive oil three times a week for 3 weeks. Quantitative data were collected using a patient identification form, the Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC), and the Visual Analogue Scale. Qualitative data were collected through semi-structured interviews.

RESULTS

The experimental group had a significantly lower mean Visual Analog Scale score in the first, third, and fourth follow-ups than the control group. The experimental group had significantly lower mean WOMAC-pain, WOMAC-stiffness, and WOMAC-physical function subscale scores in the last follow-up than in the first follow-up. The qualitative data agreed with the quantitative data.

CONCLUSIONS

The results show that St. John's Wort oil helps people with knee osteoarthritis feel less pain and become physically more active. Additional research is warranted to better understand the effect of St. John's Wort oil on pain intensity and physical functions in people with knee osteoarthritis.

Apolar Extracts of St. John's Wort Alleviate the Effects of β-Amyloid Toxicity in Early Alzheimer's Disease

Hypericum perforatum (St. John's wort) has been described to be beneficial for the treatment of Alzheimer's disease (AD). Different extractions have demonstrated efficiency in mice and humans, esp. extracts with a low hypericin and hyperforin content to reduce side effects such as phototoxicity. In order to systematically elucidate the therapeutic effects of H. perforatum extracts with different polarities, APP-transgenic mice were treated with a total ethanol extract (TE), a polar extract obtained from TE, and an apolar supercritical CO2 (scCO2) extract. The scCO2 extract was formulated with silicon dioxide (SiO2) for better oral application. APP-transgenic mice were treated with several extracts (total, polar, apolar) at different concentrations. We established an early treatment paradigm from the age of 40 days until the age of 80 days, starting before the onset of cerebral β-amyloid (Aβ) deposition at 45 days of age. Their effects on intracerebral soluble and insoluble Aβ were analyzed using biochemical analyses. Our study confirms that the scCO2H. perforatum formulation shows better biological activity against Aβ-related pathological effects than the TE or polar extracts. Clinically, the treatment resulted in a dose-dependent improvement in food intake with augmentation of the body weight, and, biochemically, it resulted in a significant reduction in both soluble and insoluble Aβ (-27% and -25%, respectively). We therefore recommend apolar H. perforatum extracts for the early oral treatment of patients with mild cognitive impairment or early AD.

Therapeutics to Treat Psychiatric and Neurological Disorders: A Promising Perspective from Algerian Traditional Medicine

Ancient people sought out drugs in nature to prevent, cure, and treat their diseases, including mental illnesses. Plants were their primary source for meeting their healthcare needs. In Algeria, folk medicine remains a fundamental part of the local intangible knowledge. This study aims to conduct a comprehensive ethnomedicinal investigation and documentation of medicinal plants and the different plant formulations traditionally used in Algeria for the treatment of pain, psychiatric, and neurological disorders. It also intends to improve the current knowledge of Algerian folk medicine. Several scientific databases were used to accomplish this work. Based on this investigation, we identified 82 plant species belonging to 69 genera and spanning 38 distinct botanical families used as remedies to treat various psychological and neurological conditions. Their traditional uses and methods of preparation, along with their phytochemical composition, main bioactive constituents, and toxicity were noted. Therefore, this review provides a new resource of information on Algerian medicinal plants used in the treatment and management of neurological and psychological diseases, which can be useful not only for the documentation and conservation of traditional knowledge, but also for conducting future phytochemical and pharmacological studies.

Effects of Hypericin on Cultured Primary Normal Human Dermal Fibroblasts Under Increased Oxidative Stress

INTRODUCTION

Wound healing is a dynamic process that begins with inflammation, proliferation, and cell migration of a variety of fibroblast cells. As a result, identifying possible compounds that may improve fibroblast cell wound healing capacity is crucial. Hypericin is a natural quinine that has been reported to possess a wide range of pharmacological profiles, including antioxidant and anti-inflammatory, activities. Herein we examined for the first time the effect of hypericin on normal human dermal fibroblasts (NHDFs) under oxidative stress.

METHODS

NHDF were exposed to different concentrations of hypericin (0-20 μg/mL) for 24 h. For the oxidative stress evaluation, H2O2 was used as a stressor factor. Cell viability and proliferation levels were evaluated. Immunohistochemistry and flow cytometry were performed to assess cell apoptosis levels and with confocal microscopy we identified the mitochondrial superoxide production under oxidative stress and after the treatment with hypericin. Scratch assay was performed under oxidative stress to evaluate the efficacy of hypericin in wound closure. To gain an insight into the molecular mechanisms of hypericin bioactivity, we analyzed the relative expression levels of genes involved in oxidative response and in wound healing process.

RESULTS

We found that the exposure of NHDF to hypericin under oxidative stress resulted in an increase in cell viability and ATP levels. We found a decrease in apoptosis and mitochondrial superoxide levels after treatment with hypericin. Moreover, treatment with hypericin reduced wound area and promoted wound closure. The levels of selected genes showed that hypericin upregulated the levels of antioxidants genes. Moreover, treatment with hypericin in wound under oxidative stress downregulated the levels of proinflammatory cytokines, and metalloproteinases; and upregulated transcription factors and extracellular matrix genes.

CONCLUSION

These findings indicated that hypericin possesses significant in vitro antioxidant activity on NHDF and provide new insights into its potential beneficial role in the management of diabetic ulcers.

Hypericum perforatum L. and the Underlying Molecular Mechanisms for Its Choleretic, Cholagogue, and Regenerative Properties

Any defects in bile formation, secretion, or flow may give rise to cholestasis, liver fibrosis, cirrhosis, and hepatocellular carcinoma. As the pathogenesis of hepatic disorders is multifactorial, targeting parallel pathways potentially increases the outcome of therapy. Hypericum perforatum has been famed for its anti-depressive effects. However, according to traditional Persian medicine, it helps with jaundice and acts as a choleretic medication. Here, we will discuss the underlying molecular mechanisms of Hypericum for its use in hepatobiliary disorders. Differentially expressed genes retrieved from microarray data analysis upon treatment with safe doses of Hypericum extract and intersection with the genes involved in cholestasis are identified. Target genes are located mainly at the endomembrane system with integrin-binding ability. Activation of α5β1 integrins, as osmo-sensors in the liver, activates a non-receptor tyrosine kinase, c-SRC, which leads to the insertion of bile acid transporters into the canalicular membrane to trigger choleresis. Hypericum upregulates CDK6 that controls cell proliferation, compensating for the bile acid damage to hepatocytes. It induces ICAM1 to stimulate liver regeneration and regulates nischarin, a hepatoprotective receptor. The extract targets the expression of conserved oligomeric Golgi (COG) and facilitates the movement of bile acids toward the canalicular membrane via Golgi-derived vesicles. In addition, Hypericum induces SCP2, an intracellular cholesterol transporter, to maintain cholesterol homeostasis. We have also provided a comprehensive view of the target genes affected by Hypericum's main metabolites, such as hypericin, hyperforin, quercitrin, isoquercitrin, quercetin, kaempferol, rutin, and p-coumaric acid to enlighten a new scope in the management of chronic liver disorders. Altogether, standard trials using Hypericum as a neo-adjuvant or second-line therapy in ursodeoxycholic-acid-non-responder patients define the future trajectories of cholestasis treatment with this product.

Chemical Characterization and Antioxidant Activity of Nine Hypericum Species from Greece

Hypericum L. comprises about 500 species distributed almost worldwide. Research has mainly focused on H. perforatum with confirmed biological activity on the alleviation of depression symptoms, among others. The compounds responsible for such activity are considered naphthodianthrones and acylphloroglucinols. Other Hypericum species are less studied or not studied, and further research is needed to complete the characterization of the genus. In this study we evaluated the qualitative and quantitative phytochemical profile of nine Hypericum species native to Greece, namely H. perforatum, H. tetrapterum, H. perfoliatum, H. rumeliacum subsp. apollinis, H. vesiculosum, H. cycladicum, H. fragile, H. olympicum and H. delphicum. Qualitative analysis was performed using the LC/Q-TOF/HRMS technique, while quantitative data were calculated with the single point external standard method. Additionally, we estimated the antioxidant activity of the extracts using DPPH and ABTS assays. Three species endemic to Greece (H. cycladicum, H. fragile, H. delphicum) were studied for the first time. Our results indicated that all studied species are rich in secondary metabolites, mainly of the flavonoids family, with strong antioxidant activity.

Hypericum perforatum L. Nanoemulsion Mitigates Cisplatin-Induced Chemobrain via Reducing Neurobehavioral Alterations, Oxidative Stress, Neuroinflammation, and Apoptosis in Adult Rats

Cisplatin (Cis) is a potent chemotherapeutic agent; however, it is linked with oxidative stress, inflammation, and apoptosis, which may harmfully affect the brain. Hypericum perforatum L. (HP L.) is a strong medicinal plant, but its hydrophobic polyphenolic compounds limit its activity. Therefore, our study aimed to investigate the neuroprotective action of HP L. and its nanoemulsion (NE) against Cis-induced neurotoxicity. The prepared HP.NE was subjected to characterization. The droplet size distribution, surface charge, and morphology were evaluated. In addition, an in vitro dissolution study was conducted. Compared to Cis-intoxicated rats, HP L. and HP.NE-treated rats displayed improved motor activity and spatial working memory. They also showed an increase in their antioxidant defense system and a reduction in the levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines in the brain. Moreover, they showed an increase in the expression levels of the PON-3 and GPX genes, which are associated with a reduction in the brain levels of COX-2 and TP-53. These findings were confirmed by reducing the immunohistochemical expression of nuclear factor kappa (NF-ƘB) and enhanced Ki-67 levels. In conclusion, HP L. is a promising herb and could be used as an adjuvant candidate to ameliorate chemotherapeutic-induced neurotoxicity. Moreover, HP.NE has superior activity in lessening Cis-induced oxidative stress, inflammation, and apoptosis in brain tissue.

The Role and Mechanism of Hyperoside against Depression-like Behavior in Mice via the NLRP1 Inflammasome

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

Hypericum perforatum (HP) is widely used for depressive therapy. Nevertheless, the antidepressant effect and potential mechanism of hyperoside (Hyp), the main active component of HP, have not been determined.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We performed ultra-performance liquid chromatography-quadrupole-time-of-flight-tandem mass spectrometry (UPLC-Q-TOF-MS/MS) technology to analyze the components in HP. Using data mining and network pharmacology methods, combined with Cytoscape v3.7.1 and other software, the active components, drug-disease targets, and key pathways of HP in the treatment of depression were evaluated. Finally, the antidepressant effects of Hyp and the mechanism involved were verified in chronic-stress-induced mice.

RESULTS

We identified 12 compounds from HP. Hyp, isoquercetin, and quercetin are the main active components of HP. The Traditional Chinese Medicine Systems Pharmacology Database (TCMSP), the Analysis Platform, DrugBank, and other databases were analyzed using data mining, and the results show that the active components of HP and depression are linked to targets such as TNF-, IL-2, TLR4, and so on. A potential signaling pathway that was most relevant to the antidepressant effects of Hyp is the C-type lectin receptor signaling pathway. Furthermore, the antidepressant effects of Hyp were examined, and it is verified for the first time that Hyp significantly alleviated depressive-like behaviors in chronic-stress-induced mice, which may be mediated by inhibiting the NLRP1 inflammasome through the CXCL1/CXCR2/BDNF signaling pathway.

CONCLUSION

Hyp is one of the main active components of HP, and Hyp has antidepressant effects through the NLRP1 inflammasome, which may be connected with the CXCL1/CXCR2/BDNF signaling pathway.

Hypericum perforatum: Traditional uses, clinical trials, and drug interactions

Hypericum perforatum (Hypericaceae), known as Saint John’s wort (SJW), has been used in different systems of traditional medicine such as Chinese traditional medicine, Greek traditional medicine, and Islamic traditional medicine. The plant and its active constituents such as hyperforin and hypericin have a wide range of medicinal uses, particularly as anti-depressant, wound-healing, and antibacterial agents. In recent decades, many clinical trials have been performed to investigate the safety and efficacy of this medicinal plant. However, to the best on our knowledge, there is no comprehensive review article in this regard. In the current study, we aim to have a comprehensive review of the clinical trials of SJW to evaluate its efficacy and safety as well as its application in traditional medicine. Clinical studies investigating the safety, interactions, and efficacy of SJW were identified and summarized, including contributions from 2000 until December 2021. According to the results, these clinical studies were divided into three main categories based on the type of disease: psychiatric, endocrine, and skin problems. Important details of the studies, including the type and duration of the study, the type and percentage of the effective compounds or the extract used, the number of patients, and the obtained results were also discussed. In addition, co-administration and drug interaction of SJW with other drugs were summarized. SJW is a valuable medicinal plant, especially for psychiatric disorders. However, precautions should be taken while administrating the plant.

Antidepressant and Cardioprotective Effects of Self-Nanoemulsifying Self-Nanosuspension Loaded with Hypericum perforatum on Post-Myocardial Infarction Depression in Rats

Hypericum perforatum (HP) is characterized by potent medicinal activity. However, the poor water solubility of many HP constituents limits their therapeutic effectiveness. Self-nanoemulsifying self-nanosuspension loaded with HP (HP.SNESNS) was formulated to improve the bioefficacy of HP. It was prepared using 10% triacetin, 57% Tween 20, and 33% PEG 400 and then incorporated with HP extract (100 mg/mL). HP.SNESNS demonstrated a bimodal size distribution (258.65 ± 29.35 and 9.08 ± 0.01 nm) corresponding to nanosuspension and nanoemulsion, respectively, a zeta potential of -8.03 mV, and an enhanced dissolution profile. Compared to the unformulated HP (100 mg/kg), HP.SNESNS significantly improved cardiac functions by decreasing the serum myocardial enzymes, nitric oxide (NO), and tumor necrosis factor- α (TNF-α) as well as restoring the heart tissue's normal architecture. Furthermore, it ameliorates anxiety, depressive-like behavior, and cognitive dysfunction by decreasing brain TNF-α, elevating neurotransmitters (norepinephrine and serotonin), and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF). In addition, HP.SNESNS augmented the immunohistochemical expression of cortical and hippocampal glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) levels while downregulating the cortical Bcl-2-associated X protein (Bax) expression levels. Surprisingly, these protective activities were comparable to the HP (300 mg/kg). In conclusion, HP.SNESNS (100 mg/kg) exerted antidepressant and cardioprotective activities in the post-MI depression rat model.

Neuroprotective Natural Products’ Regulatory Effects on Depression via Gut–Brain Axis Targeting Tryptophan

L-tryptophan (Trp) contributes to regulating bilateral communication of the gut–brain axis. It undergoes three major metabolic pathways, which lead to formation of kynurenine, serotonin (5-HT), and indole derivatives (under the control of the microbiota). Metabolites from the principal Trp pathway, kynurenic acid and quinolinic acid, exhibit neuroprotective activity, while picolinic acid exhibits antioxidant activity, and 5-HT modulates appetite, sleep cycle, and pain. Abnormality in Trp plays crucial roles in diseases, including depression, colitis, ulcer, and gut microbiota-related dysfunctions. To address these diseases, the use of natural products could be a favorable alternative because they are a rich source of compounds that can modulate the activity of Trp and combat various diseases through modulating different signaling pathways, including the gut microbiota, kynurenine pathway, and serotonin pathway. Alterations in the signaling cascade pathways via different phytochemicals may help us explore the deep relationships of the gut–brain axis to study neuroprotection. This review highlights the roles of natural products and their metabolites targeting Trp in different diseases. Additionally, the role of Trp metabolites in the regulation of neuroprotective and gastroprotective activities is discussed. This study compiles the literature on novel, potent neuroprotective agents and their action mechanisms in the gut–brain axis and proposes prospective future studies to identify more pharmaceuticals based on signaling pathways targeting Trp.

Anti-Coronavirus Efficiency and Redox-Modulating Capacity of Polyphenol-Rich Extracts from Traditional Bulgarian Medicinal Plants

Background: The use of various herbal therapists as part of traditional medicine in different parts of the world, including Bulgaria, is due to the knowledge accumulated over the centuries by people about their valuable biological activities. In this study, we investigate extracts from widely used Bulgarian medicinal plants for their ability to prevent the coronavirus infection of cells by testing different mechanisms of antiviral protection, their polyphenol content, and redox-modulating capacity. Methods: The influence on the stage of viral adsorption, the inhibition of extracellular virions, and the protective effect on uninfected cells of the plant’s extracts were reported by the end-point dilution method, and virus titer (in Δ lgs) was determined as compared to the untreated controls. The total content of polyphenols and flavonoids was also determined. We tested the antioxidant power of the extracts by their ability to inhibit the generation of superoxide anionic radicals and to scavenge DPPH radicals. We determined their iron-reducing, copper-reducing, and metal-chelating antioxidant powers. Results: Most of the extracts tested suppress the extracellular virions of HCov. They also inhibit the stage of viral adsorption to the host cell to varying degrees and have a protective effect on healthy cells before being subjected to viral invasion. The examined extracts contained significant levels of polyphenols and quercetin-like flavonoids and showed remarkable antioxidant, radical, and redox-modulating effects. Conclusions: All of these 13 extracts from Bulgarian medicinal plants tested can act as antioxidants and antiviral and symptomatic drugs for the management of coronavirus infection.

Bulgarian Medicinal Extracts as Natural Inhibitors with Antiviral and Antibacterial Activity

Background: Bulgaria is a country with a wide range of medicinal plants, with uses in traditional medicine dating back for centuries. Methods: Disc diffusion assay was used to evaluate the antimicrobial activity of the plant extracts. A cytopathic effect inhibition test was used for the assessment of the antiviral activity of the extracts. The virucidal activity of the extracts, their influence on the stage of viral adsorption, and their protective effect on uninfected cells were reported using the end-point dilution method, and Δlgs was determined as compared to the untreated controls. Results: The results of the study reveal that the antibacterial potential of G. glabra and H. perforatum extracts in Gram-positive bacteria is more effective than in Gram-negative bacteria. When applied during the replication of HSV-1 and HCov-OC-43, only some of the extracts showed weak activity, with SI between 2 to 8.5. Almost all tested extracts inhibited the extracellular virions of the studied enveloped viruses (HSV-1 and HCov-OC-43) to a greater extent than of the non-enveloped viruses (PV-1 and HAdV-5). They inhibited the stage of viral adsorption (HSV-1) in the host cell (MDBK) to varying degrees and showed a protective effect on healthy cells (MDBK) before they were subjected to viral invasion (HSV-1). Conclusion: The antipathogenic potential of extracts of H. perforatum and G. glabra suggests their effectiveness as antimicrobial agents. All 13 extracts of the Bulgarian medicinal plants studied can be used to reduce viral yield in a wide range of viral infections.

Medicinal Herbs in the Relief of Neurological, Cardiovascular, and Respiratory Symptoms after COVID-19 Infection A Literature Review

COVID-19 infection causes complications, even in people who have had a mild course of the disease. The most dangerous seem to be neurological ailments: anxiety, depression, mixed anxiety–depressive (MAD) syndromes, and irreversible dementia. These conditions can negatively affect the respiratory system, circulatory system, and heart functioning. We believe that phytotherapy can be helpful in all of these conditions. Clinical trials confirm this possibility. The work presents plant materials (Valeriana officinalis, Melissa officinalis, Passiflora incarnata, Piper methysticum, Humulus lupulus, Ballota nigra, Hypericum perforatum, Rhodiola rosea, Lavandula officinalis, Paullinia cupana, Ginkgo biloba, Murraya koenigii, Crataegus monogyna and oxyacantha, Hedera helix, Polygala senega, Pelargonium sidoides, Lichen islandicus, Plantago lanceolata) and their dominant compounds (valeranon, valtrate, apigenin, citronellal, isovitexin, isoorientin, methysticin, humulone, farnesene, acteoside, hypericin, hyperforin, biapigenin, rosavidin, salidroside, linalool acetate, linalool, caffeine, ginkgolide, bilobalide, mihanimbine, epicatechin, hederacoside C,α-hederine, presegenin, umckalin, 6,7,8-trixydroxybenzopyranone disulfate, fumaroprotocetric acid, protolichesteric acid, aucubin, acteoside) responsible for their activity. It also shows the possibility of reducing post-COVID-19 neurological, respiratory, and cardiovascular complications, which can affect the functioning of the nervous system.

Folecitin Isolated from Hypericum oblongifolium Exerts Neuroprotection against Lipopolysaccharide-Induced Neuronal Synapse and Memory Dysfunction via p-AKT/Nrf-2/HO-1 Signalling Pathway

Neurodegenerative diseases, especially Alzheimer's disease (AD), are characterised with neuronal synapse and memory dysfunction, and thus, there is an urgent need to find novel therapeutic medicines that can target different pathways to restore the deficits. In this investigation, we assessed the medicinal potency of folecitin (a flavonoid isolated from Hypericum oblongifolium Wall.) against lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced amyloidogenic amyloid beta (Aβ) production pathway-mediated memory impairment in mice. The LPS was administered intraperitonially (i.p.) 250 μg/kg/day for 3 consecutive weeks, followed by the coadministration of folecitin (30 mg/kg/day) with LPS for the last two weeks (2^nd and 3^rd week). The expression of various proteins involved in synapse, neuronal death, and Aβ generation was evaluated using the Western blot approach. Results indicated that folecitin significantly decreased LPS-induced apoptotic proteins; expressed BAX, PARP-1, and caspase-3 proteins; and inhibited BACE1 that cleaves transmembrane amyloid precursor protein and the amyloidogenic Aβ production pathway. Folecitin restored both preneural and postneuronal synapse, accompanied by the improvement in memory impairment. Moreover, folecitin significantly activated endogenous antioxidant proteins Nrf-2 and HO-1 by stimulating the phosphorylation of Akt proteins. These findings indicate that folecitin might be a promising target for developing novel medication to treat neurodegenerative disorders caused by neurotoxins.

Phytotherapeutic Approaches to the Prevention of Age-Related Changes and the Extension of Active Longevity

Maintaining quality of life with an increase in life expectancy is considered one of the global problems of our time. This review explores the possibility of using natural plant compounds with antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-glycation, and anti-neurodegenerative properties to slow down the onset of age-related changes. Age-related changes such as a decrease in mental abilities, the development of inflammatory processes, and increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes have a significant impact on maintaining quality of life. Herbal preparations can play an essential role in preventing and treating neurodegenerative diseases that accompany age-related changes, including Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s diseases. Medicinal plants have known sedative, muscle relaxant, neuroprotective, nootropic, and antiparkinsonian properties. The secondary metabolites, mainly polyphenolic compounds, are valuable substances for the development of new anti-inflammatory and hypoglycemic agents. Understanding how mixtures of plants and their biologically active substances work together to achieve a specific biological effect can help develop targeted drugs to prevent diseases associated with aging and age-related changes. Understanding the mechanisms of the biological activity of plant complexes and mixtures determines the prospects for using metabolomic and biochemical methods to prolong active longevity.

Application of Sol–Gels Modified with Natural Plants Extracts as Stationary Phases in Open-Tubular Capillary Electrochromatography

Ethanol extracts of three widely growing plants were added to silica sol–gel solutions, which were subsequently applied as wall surface modifiers in inner quartz capillaries. Modified capillaries were used for open-tubular capillary electrochromatographic separation of nucleotides and amino groups containing biological compounds (neurotransmitters, amino acids and oligopeptides). The experiments were performed at physiological pH 7.40, and eventual changes of effective mobilities were calculated. Specific compounds characteristic for each plant were tested as sol–gel additives as well, and thus-modified capillaries were used for the separations of the same analytes under identical conditions. The aim of this study was to find out possible interactions between physiological compounds and extracts of freely available plants anchorded in the sol-gel stationary phase in the flowing system. Even though the amount of the modifier in each capillary is very small, basic statistical evaluation showed some not negligible changes in effective mobility of tested analytes. These changes were bigger than ±5% for separations of nucleotides in capillaries with curcuma, Moringa or the mixture of synthetic additives as the sol-gel aditive, and for separations of amino compounds where these changes varying by additive, analyte by analyte.

A review of dementia, focusing on the distinct roles of viral protein corona and MMP9 in dementia: Potential pharmacotherapeutic priorities

Dementia, in particular, is a defining feature of Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases. Because of the combination of motor and cognitive impairments, Parkinson's disease dementia (PDD) has a greater impact on affected people than Alzheimer's disease dementia (ADD) and others. If one family member develops dementia, the other members will suffer greatly in terms of social and occupational functioning. Currently, no relevant treatment is available based on an examination of the absolute pathophysiology of dementia. As a result, our objective of current review encouraged to look for dementia pharmacotherapy based on their pathogenesis. We systematically searched electronic databases such as PubMed, Scopus, and ESCI for information on the pathophysiology of demetia, as well as their treatment with allopathic and herbal medications. By modulating intermediate proteins, oxidative stress, viral protein corona, and MMP9 are etiological factors that cause dementia. The pathophysiology of ADD was described by two hypotheses: the amyloid cascade hypothesis and the tau and tangle hypothesis. ADD is caused by an increase in amyloid-beta (Aβ) and neurofibrillary tangles in the cerebrum. The viral protein corona (VPC) is more contagious and helps to form amyloid-beta (Aβ) plaques and neurofibrillary tangles in the cerebrum. Thioredoxin interacting protein (TXNIP) inside the BBB encourages Aβ to become more engaged. PDD is caused by decreased or absent dopamine secretion from nerve cells in the substantia nigra, as well as PRKN gene deletion/duplication mutations, and shift in the PRKN-PACRG organisation, all of which are linked to ageing. This article discussed the pathophysiology of dementia, as well as a list of herbal medications that can easily cross the BBB and have a therapeutic effect on dementia.

Geraniol and Carvacrol in Essential Oil Bearing Thymus pulegioides: Distribution in Natural Habitats and Phytotoxic Effect

Phenolic and non-phenolic chemotypes of Thymus pulegioides L. are common in Europe. Essential oils of these chemotypes, as various compositions of allelochemicals, can have different phytotoxic effects on neighboring plants in natural habitats. The aim of this study was to establish the distribution of carvacrol and geraniol in T. pulegioides, growing wild in Lithuania, and compare phytotoxity of essential oils of carvacrol and geraniol chemotypes on selected plant species. In investigating 131 T. pulegioides habitats, essential oils were isolated by hydrodistillation and analyzed by GC-FID and GC-MS. Phytotoxity of essential oils extracted from carvacrol and geraniol chemotypes transmitted through water and air to selected plants was determined under laboratory conditions. Pharmacologically valuable Hypericum perforatum L. and the important forage grass Phleum pratense L. were respectively selected for experimentation from among 35 medicinal plants and 10 feed Poaceae species, growing in T. pulegioides habitats. Field results showed that carvacrol is common throughout Lithuania’s territory, whereas the geraniol is predominantly located under the continental climatic conditions of the eastern region of the country. In the laboratory experiment, it was established that there was stronger inhibition of P. pratense seed germination by the essential oil of the geraniol chemotype than the carvacrol chemotype. None of the H. perforatum seeds germinated after exposure to the essential oil of the geraniol chemotype. In general, this study builds on previous studies by providing further evidence that different T. pulegioides chemotypes have contrasting phytotoxic effects on neighboring plants within their natural habitats.

Bioactive Constituents and Toxicological Evaluation of Selected Antidiabetic Medicinal Plants of Saudi Arabia

The purpose of this review is to summarize the available antidiabetic medicinal plants in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia with its phytoconstituents and toxicological findings supporting by the latest literature. Required data about medicinal plants having antidiabetic activities and growing in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia were searched/collected from the online databases including Wiley, Google, PubMed, Google Scholar, ScienceDirect, and Scopus. Keywords used in search are in vivo antidiabetic activities, flora of Saudi Arabia, active ingredients, toxicological evaluations, and medicinal plants. A total of 50 plant species belonging to 27 families were found in the flora of Saudi Arabia. Dominant family was found Lamiaceae with 5 species (highest) followed by Moraceae with 4 species. β-Amyrin, β-sitosterol, stigmasterol, oleanolic acid, ursolic acid, rutin, chlorogenic acid, quercetin, and kaempferol are the very common bioactive constituents of these selected plant species. This paper has presented a list of antidiabetic plants used in the treatment of diabetes mellitus. Bioactive antidiabetic phytoconstituents which showed that these plants have hypoglycemic effects and highly recommended for further pharmacological purposes and to isolate/identify antidiabetes mellitus (anti-DM) active agents also need to investigate the side effects of active ingredients.

Enhancing the efficacy of Hypericum perforatum in the treatment of an experimental model of multiple sclerosis using gold nanoparticles: an in vivo study

Objective

Hypericum perforatum is a herbal medicine used in traditional medicine for the treatment of depression due to its antidepressant and anti-inflammatory activities. Therefore, we evaluated the therapeutic efficacy of H. perforatum extract (HPE) in combination with gold nanoparticles (HPE-GNP) against experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE), an animal model of multiple sclerosis.

Materials and Methods

EAE was induced in C57BL/6 mice with subcutaneous injection of MOG35-55 emulsified in complete Freund's adjuvant, and intraperitoneal pertussis toxin. Mice were treated with drugs in free (HPE) and nano-form (HPE-GNP) preparations. Splenocytes were isolated from all mice and the level of inflammatory and anti-inflammatory cytokines were evaluated by ELISA. The expression of T cells' transcription factors was also assessed using Real-Time PCR.

Results

Clinical score was reduced after HPE-GNP treatment. This change was associated with a decrease in the incidence and infiltration of inflammatory cells into the central nervous system. Additionally, treatment with HPE-GNP decreased the level of pro-inflammatory cytokines (IFN-γ, IL-17A and IL-6) and increased anti-inflammatory cytokines (TGF-β, IL-10 and IL-4). The real-time analysis revealed a decrease in the level of T-bet and ROR-γt but an increase in FoxP3 and GATA3 expression.

Conclusion

The current study demonstrated that HPE-GNP could potentially reduce clinical and pathological complications of EAE, but laboratory data showed that HPE-GNP was significantly more effective than HPE in the treatment of EAE.

Decrypting the potential role of α-lipoic acid in Alzheimer's disease

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is one of the most prevalent neurodegenerative diseases with motor disturbances, cognitive decline, and behavioral impairment. It is characterized by the extracellular aggregation of amyloid-β plaques and the intracellular accumulation of tau protein. AD patients show a cognitive decline, which has been associated with oxidative stress, as well as mitochondrial dysfunction. Alpha-lipoic acid (α-LA), a natural antioxidant present in food and used as a dietary supplement, has been considered a promising agent for the prevention or treatment of neurodegenerative disorders. Despite multiple preclinical studies indicating beneficial effects of α-LA in memory functioning, and pointing to its neuroprotective effects, to date only a few studies have examined its effects in humans. Studies performed in animal models of memory loss associated with aging and AD have shown that α-LA improves memory in a variety of behavioral paradigms. Furthermore, molecular mechanisms underlying α-LA effects have also been investigated. Accordingly, α-LA shows antioxidant, antiapoptotic, anti-inflammatory, glioprotective, metal chelating properties in both in vivo and in vitro studies. In addition, it has been shown that α-LA reverses age-associated loss of neurotransmitters and their receptors. The review article aimed at summarizing and discussing the main studies investigating the neuroprotective effects of α-LA on cognition as well as its molecular effects, to improve the understanding of the therapeutic potential of α-LA in patients suffering from neurodegenerative disorders, supporting the development of clinical trials with α-LA.

Comparative assessment of proliferation and immunomodulatory potential of Hypericum perforatum plant and callus extracts on mesenchymal stem cells derived adipose tissue from multiple sclerosis patients

BACKGROUND

Mesenchymal stem cells-derived adipose tissue (AT-MSCs) are recognized for the treatment of inflammatory diseases including multiple sclerosis (MS). Hypericum perforatum (HP) is an anti-inflammatory pharmaceutical plant with bioactive compounds. Plant tissue culture is a technique to improve desired pharmacological potential. The aim of this study was to compare the anti-inflammatory and proliferative effects of callus with field-growing plant extracts of HP on AT-MSCs derived from MS patients.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

AT-MSCs were isolated and characterized. HP callus was prepared and exposure to light spectrum (blue, red, blue-red, and control). Total phenols, flavonoids, and hypericin of HP callus and plant extracts were measured. The effects of HP extracts concentrations on proliferation were evaluated by MTT assay. Co-culture of AT-MSCs: PBMCs were challenged by HP plant and callus extracts, and Tregs percentage was assessed by flow cytometry.

RESULTS

Identification of MSCs was performed. Data showed that blue light could stimulate total phenols, flavonoids, and hypericin. MTT test demonstrated that plant extract in concentrations (0.03, 1.2, 2.5 and 10 μg/ml) and HP callus extract in 10 μg/ml significantly increased. Both HP extracts lead to an increase in Tregs percentage in all concentrations. In particular, a comparison between HP plant and callus extracts revealed that Tregs enhanced 3-fold more than control groups in the concentration of 10 μg/ml callus.

CONCLUSIONS

High concentrations of HP extracts showed effectiveness on AT-MSCs proliferation and immunomodulatory properties with a certain consequence in callus extract. HP extracts may be considered as supplementary treatments for the patients who receiving MSCs transplantation.

Herbal drugs and natural bioactive products as potential therapeutics: A review on pro-cognitives and brain boosters perspectives

Memory, one of the most vital aspects of the human brain, is necessary for the effective survival of an individual. 'Memory' can be defined in various ways but in an overall view, memory is the retention of the information that the brain grasps. Different factors are responsible for the disbalance in the brain's hippocampus region and the acetylcholine level, which masters the memory and cognitive functions. Plants are a source of pharmacologically potent drug molecules of high efficacy. Recently herbal medicine has evolved rapidly, gaining great acceptance worldwide due to their natural origin and fewer side effects. In this review, the authors have discussed the mechanisms and pharmacological action of herbal bioactive compounds to boost memory. Moreover, this review presents an update of different herbs and natural products that could act as memory enhancers and how they can be potentially utilized in the near future for the treatment of severe brain disorders. In addition, the authors also discuss the differences in biological activity of the same herb and emphasize the requirement for a higher standardization in cultivation methods and plant processing. The demand for further studies evaluating the interactions of herbal drugs is mentioned.

Evaluation of Motor Coordination and Antidepressant Activities of Cinnamomum osmophloeum ct. Linalool Leaf Oil in Rodent Model

Cinnamomum plants (Lauraceae) are a woody species native to South and Southeast Asia forests, and are widely used as food flavors and traditional medicines. This study aims to evaluate the chemical constituents of Cinnamomum osmophloeum ct. linalool leaf oil, and its antidepressant and motor coordination activities and the other behavioral evaluations in a rodent animal model. The major component of leaf oil is linalool, confirmed by GC-MS analysis. Leaf oil would not induce the extra body weight gain compared to the control mice at the examined doses after 6 weeks of oral administration. The present results provide the first evidence for motor coordination and antidepressant effects present in leaf oil. According to hypnotic, locomotor behavioral, and motor coordination evaluations, leaf oil would not cause side effects, including weight gain, drowsiness and a diminishment in the motor functions, at the examined doses. In summary, these results revealed C. osmophloeum ct. linalool leaf essential oil is of high potential as a therapeutic supplement for minor/medium depressive syndromes.

Mechanistic new insights of flavonols on neurodegenerative diseases

With a large and increasing elderly population, neurodegenerative diseases such as Parkinson's disease (PD), Huntington disease (HD), Alzheimer's disease (AD), Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and Multiple sclerosis (MS) have become a major and growing health problem. During the past few decades, the elderly population has grown 2.5 % every year. Unfortunately, there are no specific therapeutic remedies available to slow the onset or development of these diseases. An aging brain causes many pathophysiological changes and is the major risk factor for most of the neurodegenerative disorders. Polyphenolic compounds such as flavonols have shown therapeutic potential and can contribute to the treatment of these diseases. In this review, evidence for the beneficial neuroprotective effect of multiple flavonols is discussed and their multifactorial cellular pathways for the progressions of age-associated brain changes are identified. Moreover, the animal models of these diseases support the neuroprotective effect and target the potential of flavonols in the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases.

Prediction of hypericin content in Hypericum perforatum L. in different ecological habitat using artificial neural networks

BACKGROUND

Hypericum is an important genus in the family Hypericaceae, which includes 484 species. This genus has been grown in temperate regions and used for treating wounds, eczema and burns. The aim of this study was to predict the content of hypericin in Hypericum perforatum in varied ecological and phenological conditions of habitat using artificial neural network techniques [MLP (Multi-Layer Perceptron), RBF (Radial Basis Function) and SVM (Support Vector Machine)].

RESULTS

According to the results, the MLP model (R² = 0.87) had an advantage over RBF (R² = 0.8) and SVM (R² = 0.54) models and it was relatively accurate in predicting hypericin content in H. perforatum based on the ecological conditions of site including soil types, its characteristics and plant phenological stages of habitat. The results of sensitivity analysis revealed that phenological stages, hill aspects, total nitrogen, altitude and organic carbon are the most influential factors that have an integral effect on the content of hypericin.

CONCLUSIONS

The designed graphical user interface will help pharmacognosist, manufacturers and producers of medicinal plants and so on to run the MLP model on new data to easily discover the content of hypericin in H. perforatum by entering ecological conditions of site, soil characteristics and plant phenological stages.

Potential Herb-Drug Interactions in the Management of Age-Related Cognitive Dysfunction

Late-life mild cognitive impairment and dementia represent a significant burden on healthcare systems and a unique challenge to medicine due to the currently limited treatment options. Plant phytochemicals have been considered in alternative, or complementary, prevention and treatment strategies. Herbals are consumed as such, or as food supplements, whose consumption has recently increased. However, these products are not exempt from adverse effects and pharmacological interactions, presenting a special risk in aged, polymedicated individuals. Understanding pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic interactions is warranted to avoid undesirable adverse drug reactions, which may result in unwanted side-effects or therapeutic failure. The present study reviews the potential interactions between selected bioactive compounds (170) used by seniors for cognitive enhancement and representative drugs of 10 pharmacotherapeutic classes commonly prescribed to the middle-aged adults, often multimorbid and polymedicated, to anticipate and prevent risks arising from their co-administration. A literature review was conducted to identify mutual targets affected (inhibition/induction/substrate), the frequency of which was taken as a measure of potential interaction. Although a limited number of drugs were studied, from this work, interaction with other drugs affecting the same targets may be anticipated and prevented, constituting a valuable tool for healthcare professionals in clinical practice.

Neurotherapeutic effect of Hyptis spp. leaf extracts in Caenorhabditis elegans models of tauopathy and polyglutamine disease: Role of the glutathione redox cycle

Hyptis suaveolens (HS), Hyptis pectinata (HP) and Hyptis marrubioides (HM) are plants used in folk medicine for treatment of several diseases. Here, we tested the in vivo antioxidant and neuroprotective potential of methanolic extracts from these plants, containing several rosmarinic acid derivatives and isoquercetin. In C. elegans, HS, HP and HM leaf extracts enhanced the antioxidant responses through the induction of specific antioxidant enzymes and demonstrated neurotherapeutic potential in transgenic models of genetically determined human neurodegenerative diseases - Frontotemporal dementia with parkinsonism linked to chromosome 17 and Machado-Joseph disease. Chronic treatment of disease models with HS, HP and HM leaf extracts improved the animals' motor function and increased their tolerance to an oxidative insult. The restorative effect of HM extract in motor performance of both disease models required the presence of glutathione reductase (gsr-1), an enzyme that assures the glutathione redox cycle, highlighting the role of this pathway and unveiling a common candidate therapeutic target for these diseases. Our findings strengthen the relevance of plant-derived bioactive compound discovery for neurodegenerative disorders that remain without effective treatment.

PSYCHE-A Valuable Experiment in Plant NMR-Metabolomics

¹H-NMR is a very reproducible spectroscopic method and, therefore, a powerful tool for the metabolomic analysis of biological samples. However, due to the high complexity of natural samples, such as plant extracts, the evaluation of spectra is difficult because of signal overlap. The new NMR “Pure Shift” methods improve spectral resolution by suppressing homonuclear coupling and turning multiplets into singlets. The PSYCHE (Pure Shift yielded by Chirp excitation) and the Zangger–Sterk pulse sequence were tested. The parameters of the more suitable PSYCHE experiment were optimized, and the extracts of 21 Hypericum species were measured. Different evaluation criteria were used to compare the suitability of the PSYCHE experiment with conventional ¹H-NMR. The relationship between the integral of a signal and the related bin value established by linear regression demonstrates an equal representation of the integrals in binned PSYCHE spectra compared to conventional ¹H-NMR. Using multivariate data analysis based on both techniques reveals comparable results. The obtained data demonstrate that Pure Shift spectra can support the evaluation of conventional ¹H-NMR experiments.

Protective Role of St. John's Wort and Its Components Hyperforin and Hypericin against Diabetes through Inhibition of Inflammatory Signaling: Evidence from In Vitro and In Vivo Studies

Diabetes mellitus is a very common chronic disease with progressively increasing prevalence. Besides the well-known autoimmune and inflammatory pathogenesis of type 1 diabetes, in many people, metabolic changes and inappropriate lifestyle favor a subtle chronic inflammatory state that contributes to development of insulin resistance and progressive loss of β-cell function and mass, eventually resulting in metabolic syndrome or overt type 2 diabetes. In this paper, we review the anti-inflammatory effects of the extract of Hypericum perforatum L. (St. John's wort, SJW) and its main active ingredients firstly in representative pathological situations on inflammatory basis and then in pancreatic β cells and in obese or diabetic animal models. The simultaneous and long-lasting inhibition of signal transducer and activator of transcription (STAT)-1, nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells (NF-κB) and mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs)/c-jun N-terminal kinase (JNK) signaling pathways involved in pro-inflammatory cytokine-induced β-cell dysfunction/death and insulin resistance make SJW particularly suitable for both preventive and therapeutic use in metabolic diseases. Hindrance of inflammatory cytokine signaling is likely dependent on the hyperforin content of SJW extract, but recent data reveal that hypericin can also exert relevant protective effects, mediated by activation of the cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP)/protein kinase cAMP-dependent (PKA)/adenosine monophosphate activated protein kinase (AMPK) pathway, against high-fat-diet-induced metabolic abnormalities. Actually, the mechanisms of action of the two main components of SJW appear complementary, strengthening the efficacy of the plant extract. Careful quantitative analysis of SJW components and suitable dosage, with monitoring of possible drug-drug interaction in a context of remarkable tolerability, are easily achievable pre-requisites for forthcoming clinical applications.

Antioxidant Supplementation in the Treatment of Neurotoxicity Induced by Platinum-Based Chemotherapeutics-A Review

Cancer represents one of the most pernicious public health problems with a high mortality rate among patients worldwide. Chemotherapy is one of the major therapeutic approaches for the treatment of various malignancies. Platinum-based drugs (cisplatin, oxaliplatin, carboplatin, etc.) are highly effective chemotherapeutic drugs used for the treatment of several types of malignancies, but their application and dosage are limited by their toxic effects on various systems, including neurotoxicity. Simultaneously, researchers have tried to improve the survival rate and quality of life of cancer patients and decrease the toxicity of platinum-containing drugs by combining them with non-chemotherapy-based drugs, dietary supplements and/or antioxidants. Additionally, recent studies have shown that the root cause for the many side effects of platinum chemotherapeutics involves the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in naive cells. Therefore, suppression of ROS generation and their inactivation with antioxidants represents an appropriate approach for platinum drug-induced toxicities. The aim of this paper is to present an updated review of the protective effects of different antioxidant agents (vitamins, dietary antioxidants and supplements, medicaments, medicinal plants and their bioactive compounds) against the neurotoxicity induced by platinum-based chemotherapeutics. This review highlights the high potential of plant antioxidants as adjuvant strategies in chemotherapy with platinum drugs.

The Biochemical and Genetic Basis for the Biosynthesis of Bioactive Compounds in Hypericum Perforatum L., One of the Largest Medicinal Crops in Europe

Hypericum perforatum L. commonly known as Saint John's Wort (SJW), is an important medicinal plant that has been used for more than 2000 years. Although H. perforatum produces several bioactive compounds, its importance is mainly linked to two molecules highly relevant for the pharmaceutical industry: the prenylated phloroglucinol hyperforin and the naphtodianthrone hypericin. The first functions as a natural antidepressant while the second is regarded as a powerful anticancer drug and as a useful compound for the treatment of Alzheimer's disease. While the antidepressant activity of SJW extracts motivate a multi-billion dollar industry around the world, the scientific interest centers around the biosynthetic pathways of hyperforin and hypericin and their medical applications. Here, we focus on what is known about these processes and evaluate the possibilities of combining state of the art omics, genome editing, and synthetic biology to unlock applications that would be of great value for the pharmaceutical and medical industries.

St. John's Wort Herbal Teas - Biological Potential and Chemometric Approach to Quality Control

St. John's wort has been used for centuries in traditional medicine of many cultures, and nowadays it is well-known as a clinically important antidepressant drug. Considering the rising market demand for Hyperici herba, quality control of crude drug is of paramount importance. In this paper we performed HPLC-DAD chemical profiling of St. John's wort tea samples obtained at local markets, pharmacies and health food stores in the Balkan Peninsula countries, Austria and Turkey. Furthermore, water alcoholic extracts of the collected samples were evaluated in terms of their antioxidant potential, as well as the ability to inhibit biologically important enzymes such as acetylcholinesterase, monoamine oxidases A and B (MAO-A and MAO-B), α-amylase and α-glucosidase. Significant variability within the samples in the quantities of hypericin, hyperforin, rutin, quercetin, gallic, chlorogenic, caffeic and p-hydroxybenzoic acid was noticed. Chemotaxonomic modelling enabled the identification of three clusters of samples based on the quantities of rutin, hypericin and hyperforin. Generally, the extracts exhibited a significant potential to inhibit MAO-A (median IC₅₀ = 10.01 μg/mL) and α-glucosidase (median IC₅₀ = 12.40 μg/mL). The results of antioxidant potential evaluation suggest strong neutralization of hydroxyl and nitroso radicals, but moderate inhibition of lipid peroxidation process. Overall, the conducted study emphasizes the possibility of St. John's wort teas quality control, taking into account unavoidable variability of chemical profile as well. The stated is of great importance when grinding degree of herbal material excludes taxonomic identification of biological origin as an option within quality control.

Targeting apoptosis and autophagy following spinal cord injury: Therapeutic approaches to polyphenols and candidate phytochemicals

Spinal cord injury (SCI) is a neurological disorder associated with the loss of sensory and motor function. Understanding the precise dysregulated signaling pathways, especially apoptosis and autophagy following SCI, is of vital importance in developing innovative therapeutic targets and treatments. The present study lies in the fact that it reveals the precise dysregulated signaling mediators of apoptotic and autophagic pathways following SCI and also examines the effects of polyphenols and other candidate phytochemicals. It provides new insights to develop new treatments for post-SCI complications. Accordingly, a comprehensive review was conducted using electronic databases including, Scopus, Web of Science, PubMed, and Medline, along with the authors' expertise in apoptosis and autophagy as well as their knowledge about the effects of polyphenols and other phytochemicals on SCI pathogenesis. The primary mechanical injury to spinal cord is followed by a secondary cascade of apoptosis and autophagy that play critical roles during SCI. In terms of pharmacological mechanisms, caspases, Bax/Bcl-2, TNF-α, and JAK/STAT in apoptosis along with LC3 and Beclin-1 in autophagy have shown a close interconnection with the inflammatory pathways mainly glutamatergic, PI3K/Akt/mTOR, ERK/MAPK, and other cross-linked mediators. Besides, apoptotic pathways have been shown to regulate autophagy mediators and vice versa. Prevailing evidence has highlighted the importance of modulating these signaling mediators/pathways by polyphenols and other candidate phytochemicals post-SCI. The present review provides dysregulated signaling mediators and therapeutic targets of apoptotic and autophagic pathways following SCI, focusing on the modulatory effects of polyphenols and other potential phytochemical candidates.

Ethnopharmacology of Hypericum species in China: A comprehensive review on ethnobotany, phytochemistry and pharmacology

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Hypericum species have been used traditionally as astringent, antipyretic, diuretic, antiphlogistic, analgesic, and antidepressant in Europe, America, Africa, and Asia. One of the most extensively investigated medicinal herbs, H. perforatum L. (St. John's wort), is widely used in many countries to treat mild to moderate mental depression. Hypericum species are abundant throughout China, including 30 used as ethnomedicines. There are limited publications describing the ethnobotanical uses and biological activities associated with Hypericum species in China. Some reported activities include the treatment of wounds and bruises, irregular menstruation, dysentery, hepatitis, mastitis, jaundice, hemoptysis, and epistaxis.

AIM OF THE REVIEW

This review aims to critically examine how Hypericum species are used ethnomedicinally in China, to see if the ethnobotanical data may be useful to help prioritize Hypericum species and certain phytochemical constituents that may be new drug leads, and consider the focus and lack of the phytopharmacological study on Hypericum species in China.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Classic medicinal books and ethnomedicinal publications were reviewed for the genus Hypericum (called jin si tao in Chinese). In addition, relevant information about ethnobotany, phytochemistry, and pharmacology were from online databases including SciFinder, Science Direct, PubMed, Google Scholar, and China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI). "Hypericum", "", "ethnobotany", "traditional use", "ethnomedicine", "phytochemistry", "pharmacology" and "bioactivity" were used as keywords when searching the databases. Thus, available articles from 1959 to 2019 were collected and analyzed.

RESULTS

Among 64 Hypericum species recorded in China, 30 have been used as ethnomedicines by 15 linguistic groups such as Dai, Dong, Han, Miao, and Mongolian people. Hypericum species in China possess traditional uses which are also mirrored in Europe, America, Africa, and other countries in Asia. However, there are some unique ethnomedicinal uses in China. For example, several Hypericum species are used as a local remedy in southwest China, and H. attenuatum Fisch. ex Choisy is used to treat cardiac disorders in northeast China. Antitumor, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, neuroprotective, antidepressant, hepatoprotective, cardioprotective, and antiviral activities have been reported in numerous biological studies. The main phytochemical constituents in Hypericum consist of phloroglucinols, naphthodianthrones, xanthones, flavonoids, and terpenoids.

CONCLUSIONS

There is a rich traditional knowledge regarding the ethnomedicinal uses of Hypericum species in China. Through phytochemical and pharmacological studies, several medicinal Hypericum from China have yielded many bioactive phytochemicals, possessing antitumor, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and neuroprotective properties. Hypericum species from China are potential sources of drugs to fight cancer and other chronic diseases. Remarkably, nearly half of Hypericum species in China have rarely been studied, and their ethnomedicinal potential have not been scientifically evaluated. Thus, in vitro mechanistic studies, in vivo pharmacology, and clinical efficacy are all needed, prioritizing those studies that relate most closely with their traditional uses. In addition, a comprehensive plant-resource evaluation, quality control, and toxicology studies are needed.

Hypericum spp.: An Update on the Biological Activities and Metabolic Profiles

Plants from the genus Hypericum, one genus of the Hypericaceae family, have attracted a lot of attention for their potential pharmaceutical applications. Most of the studies in the literature focus on H. perforatum L. (common St. John's wort), whose complex spectrum of bioactive compounds makes this species one of the top herbal remedies and supplements in the world. It is also important to compare the studies on other Hypericum species, both from the phytochemical and biological point of view. The aim of this review was to provide an update of most recent studies about biological investigations of plants belonging to Hypericum genus. The metabolic profiles of Hypericum spp. were also discussed in order to present a spectrum of secondary metabolites not previously identified in this genus.

Neuroprotective Effects of Quercetin in Alzheimer's Disease

Quercetin is a flavonoid with notable pharmacological effects and promising therapeutic potential. It is widely distributed among plants and found commonly in daily diets predominantly in fruits and vegetables. Neuroprotection by quercetin has been reported in several in vitro studies. It has been shown to protect neurons from oxidative damage while reducing lipid peroxidation. In addition to its antioxidant properties, it inhibits the fibril formation of amyloid-β proteins, counteracting cell lyses and inflammatory cascade pathways. In this review, we provide a synopsis of the recent literature exploring the relationship between quercetin and cognitive performance in Alzheimer's disease and its potential as a lead compound in clinical applications.

Gastroprotective herbs for headache management in Persian medicine: A comprehensive review

The gut-brain axis is a bidirectional communication system that exists between the brain and gut. Several studies claimed that some types of headaches are associated with various gastrointestinal (GI) disorders. In Persian medicine (PM), physicians believed that gastric disturbances could stimulate headache and introduced some herbs for boosting gastric function as a therapeutic remedy for headache. Here we review the current evidence for the gastroprotective and antiheadache effects of herbs used in PM. Herbs used for their gastrotonic effects in PM were identified from selected Persian medical and pharmaceutical textbooks. PubMed, Scopus and Google Scholar were used to search for contemporary scientific evidence relating to the gastric and neurologic effects of these plants. A total of 24 plants were recorded from the selected sources included in this review, most of which belonged to the Rosaceae family. Phyllanthus emblica, Zingiber officinale, Boswellias errata, Punica granatum and Hypericum perforatum had the most recent studies related to GI disorder and headache, while current research about quince, rose, apple, hawthorn and pear was limited. Reducing Helicobacter pylori growth, gastritis, erosion of the stomach lining, hemorrhage and perforation, improving gastric mucosal resistance, antisecretary, antiulcer, antipyretic, analgesic, sedative, anxiolytic, anti-inflammatory, anticonvulsant, neuroprotective and antioxidant effects as well as improvement in memory scores were some of the gastrotonic and neuroprotective mechanisms described in the current research. These results confirmed that medicinal plants prescribed in PM may improve headache in patients through the management of GI abnormalities. However, further studies are recommended to investigate the efficacy and safety of the mentioned medicinal plants.

Hypericum species: An analysis on the patent technologies

Hypericum (Hypericaceae) is a genus that comprises approximately 500 species around the world. The industrial relevance of these plants is based on the occurence of specialized metabolites that exhibit a range of pharmaceutical potential. Besides that, several species are relevant due to their ornamental value. Taking to account the vast market worth of products and processes involving Hypericum, the present study aims to provide a comprehensive overview of patents concerning this subject between 2007and 2017. For this purpose, a survey was performed in free databases (Espacenet®, PatentScope® and Google Patents®) using the keyword Hypericum in the patents title or title plus abstract. The documents were then organized by groups (medicinal and non-medicinal approaches), subgroups, type of applicants and countries. Espacenet® was chosen to data analysis, and a total of 174 patents were found. The majority of the applicants are from China and companies appear as the principal owners of patents. Several technologies are not intended for medicinal purposes, being mainly related to the development of new cultivars for ornamental uses. Concerning the medicinal approaches, the chief subject is related to extraction and incorporation into formulations. The main species cited in the documents is H. perforatum and the therapeutic use is for central nervous system diseases. In general, this study covers the patents published in recent years hoping to boost the scientists and companies that invest in Hypericum researches to visualize the state of art, opportunities and challenges for innovation in this area.

Herbal medicine for psychiatric disorders: Psychopharmacology and neuroscience-based nomenclature

Objectives: Herbs are frequently and concurrently used with prescribed drugs by patients worldwide. While clinical trials have found some herbs to be as useful as standard psychiatric drugs, most clinicians are unaware of their pharmacological mechanisms.Methods: We searched English language and other language literature with English abstracts listed in PubMed website, supplemented by additional through Google Scholar's free academic paper abstract website for publications on herbs, focussing on their clinical use in mental disorders, their neurobiology and their pharmacology.Results: A major reason for herbs remaining outside of mainstream psychiatry is that the terminology and concepts in herbal medicine are not familiar to psychiatrists in general. Many publications regarding the use of herbal medicine for psychiatric disorders are deficient in details regarding diagnosis, criteria for response and the neurobiology details compared with publications on standard psychotropic drugs. Nomenclature for herbal medicine is usually confusing and is not conducive to an easy understanding of their mode of action in psychiatric disorders.Conclusions: The recent neuroscience-based nomenclature (NbN) for psychotropics methodology would be a logical application to herbal medicine in facilitating a better understanding of the use of herbal medicine in psychiatry.