A Comprehensive Review of the Phytochemical, Pharmacological, and Toxicological Properties of Tribulus terrestris L

"UHPLC-Q-TOF/MS-chemometrics-network pharmacology" integrated strategy to discover quality markers of raw and stir-fried Fructus Tribuli and process optimization of stir-fried Fructus Tribuli

INTRODUCTION

Fructus Tribuli, the dried ripe fruit of Tribulus terrestris L., has various beneficial effects, including liver-calming and depression-relieving effects. Raw Fructus Tribuli (RFT) and stir-fried Fructus Tribuli (SFT) are included in the Chinese Pharmacopoeia 2020 edition (Ch. P 2020). However, owing to the lack of specific regulations on SFT-processing parameters in Ch. P 2020, it is difficult to ensure the quality of commercially available SFT.

OBJECTIVE

The present study aimed to screen the quality markers (Q-markers) of RFT and SFT and optimize the processing technology of SFT based on the identified Q-markers.

METHODS

First, the ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography coupled with quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry (UHPLC-Q-TOF/MS) technology as well as multiple statistical analysis along with network pharmacology was used to comprehensively identify the Q-markers of RFT and SFT. Then, based on single-factor experiments, the Box-Behnken design (BBD) response surface methodology (RSM) was used to optimize the processing technology of SFT and perform process validation.

RESULTS

A total of 63 components were identified in RFT and SFT extracts. Terrestrosin D and Terrestrosin K were initially considered the Q-markers of RFT and SFT, respectively. The optimum processing technology conditions were 208°C, 14 min, and 60 r·min-1. Three batches of process validation were performed, and the mean composite score was 56.87, with a relative standard deviation (RSD) value of 1.13%.

CONCLUSION

The content of steroidal saponin components in RFT was significantly different before and after stir-frying. Terrestrosin D and Terrestrosin K were validated as the Q-markers of RFT and SFT, respectively. The identification of Q-markers for RFT and SFT offered a clear index for optimizing the SFT-processing technology and provided a basis for the quality control of RFT and SFT decoction pieces.

Tribulus terrestris and Sport Performance: A Quantitative and Qualitative Evaluation of Its Advertisement and Availability via Online Shopping in Six Different Countries

Dietary supplements are commonly used among athletes, and the Internet may be an easy source of these products. Tribulus terrestris is an herbal supplement with multiple properties. Of interest to athletes are reports that its consumption can lead to muscle mass gain and a faster recovery process. The objective of this cross-sectional study was to determine the availability of Tribulus terrestris via the Internet in six countries (Canada, Puerto Rico, Russia, Spain, Ukraine, and the United States of America) via a specifically designed computer program. The characteristics of the websites selling this substance, the country from which it can be purchased, the route of administration, and recommendations for its use were analyzed. The results of the study show that this supplement is marketed mainly in Russia, Ukraine, and Spain on many websites that are mostly dedicated to sports products. Just over half of the webpages (59.14%) identified only distribute this supplement within the same country. The main claims for its consumption refer to sports performance benefits, but there are also claims that it may improve male hormone levels and sexual function. Athletes should be encouraged to seek professional advice prior to ingesting this supplement to ensure that it is suitable for their specific training and sports objectives.

Computational screening of potential anti-inflammatory leads from Jeevaneeya Rasayana plants targeting COX-2 and 5- LOX by molecular docking and dynamic simulation approaches

Inflammation plays a pivotal role in various pathological processes, ranging from routine injuries and infections to cancer. Cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) and 5-lipoxygenase (5-LOX) are two major enzymes involved in the formation of lipid mediators of inflammation, such as prostaglandins and leukotrienes, through the arachidonic acid pathway. Despite the frequent use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs for managing inflammatory disorders by inhibiting these enzymes, there is a wide spectrum of adverse effects linked to their usage. Jeevaneeya Rasayana (JR), a polyherbal formulation traditionally used in India, is renowned for its anti-inflammatory properties. The present study aimed to identify the potential phytocompounds in JR plants against COX-2 and 5-LOX, utilizing molecular docking and dynamic simulations. Among the 429 identified phytocompounds retrieved from publicly available data sources, Terrestribisamide and 1-(9Z-octadecenoyl)-sn-glycero-3-phosphoethanolamine have shown potential binding affinity and favorable interactions with COX-2 and 5-LOX arachidonic acid binding sites. The physicochemical properties and ADMET profiles of these compounds determined their drug-likeness and pharmacokinetics features. Additional validation using molecular dynamics simulations, SASA, Rg, and MM-PBSA binding energy calculations affirmed the stability of the complex formed between those compounds with target proteins. Together, the study identified the effectual binding potential of those bioactive compounds against COX-2 and 5-LOX, providing a viable approach for the development of effective anti-inflammatory medications.

Promising phytopharmacology, nutritional potential, health benefits, and traditional usage of Tribulus terrestris L. herb

Traditional medicines are becoming more popular as people become more aware of the dangers of synthetic pharmaceuticals. Tribulus terrestris L., (Gokharu) an annual herbaceous plant, has been extensively utilized by herbalists for numerous medicinal purposes. T. terrestris has been studied for its multiple therapeutic effects, including immunomodulatory, aphrodisiac, anti-urolithic, absorption enhancer, cardioprotective, antidiabetic, anti-inflammatory, hypolipidemic, neuro-protective, anticancer, and analgesic properties. Saponins and flavonoids are two examples of beneficial substances that have recently been found in T. terrestris. These chemicals are very important for a variety of therapeutic effects. Numerous studies have shown that T. terrestris products and various parts may have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-cancer, anti-diabetic, testosterone-boosting, and liver protective effects. According to the published evidence, T. terrestris boosts testosterone secretion, regulates blood pressure, and protects the human body against injuries. The cardiovascular, reproductive, and urinary systems are all severely impacted. Due to its potent bioactive compounds, the literature evaluated from a wide range of sources including books, reports, PubMed, ScienceDirect, Wiley, Springer, and other databases demonstrated the extraordinary potential to treat numerous human and animal ailments. Our review is different from other published articles because we explored its importance for humans and especially in veterinary like poultry health. It could also be used as an aphrodisiac to treat different fertility-related disorders in human and animal science. More research into the pharmacodynamics of herbs like T. terrestris is needed so that it can be used in a wider variety of nutraceutical products for humans and poultry.

The Effect of a Tribulus-Based Formulation in Alleviating Cholinergic System Impairment and Scopolamine-Induced Memory Loss in Zebrafish (Danio rerio): Insights from Molecular Docking and In Vitro/In Vivo Approaches

Tribulus terrestris L. (Tt) has been recently gaining attention for its pharmacological value, including its neuroprotective activities. In this study, we explore the neuroprotective effects of a Tribulus terrestris extract in a zebrafish (Danio rerio) model of scopolamine (SCOP)-induced memory impairment and brain oxidative stress. SCOP, an anticholinergic drug, was employed to replicate fundamental aspects of Alzheimer's disease (AD) in animal models. The fish were treated with ethanolic leaf extract (ELE) from Tt (1, 3, and 6 mg/L) for 15 days. SCOP (100 µM) was administered 30 min before behavioral tests were conducted. Molecular interactions of the major compounds identified via UPLC-PDA/MS in Tt fractions with the active site of acetylcholinesterase (AChE) were explored via molecular docking analyses. Terrestrosin C, protodioscin, rutin, and saponin C exhibited the most stable binding. The spatial memory performance was assessed using the Y-maze test, and memory recognition was examined using a novel object recognition (NOR) test. Tt extract treatment reversed the altered locomotion patterns that were caused by SCOP administration. Biochemical analyses also verified Tt's role in inhibiting AChE, improving antioxidant enzyme activities, and reducing oxidative stress markers. The present findings pave the way for future application of Tt as a natural alternative to treat cognitive disorders.

The traditional use of native Brazilian plants for male sexual dysfunction: Evidence from ethnomedicinal applications, animal models, and possible mechanisms of action

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Sexual dysfunction is a multifactorial health condition characterized by distressing disturbances in the sexual response and libido, leading to an inability to maintain penile erection and achieve pleasure. Considering the huge Brazilian biodiversity, many plants are traditionally used for aphrodisiac purposes. However, the use of native medicinal plants as sexual boosters in Brazil has been poorly studied.

AIM OF THE STUDY

This review focuses on the composition, pharmacology, and results of experimental trials of the main native plants used in Brazilian folk medicine with alleged aphrodisiac effects. We aimed to provide a state-of-the-art reference for research on herbs for the treatment of male sexual dysfunction by summarizing and discussing the main studies found.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The relevant information was collected by searching keywords (aphrodisiac, sexual tonic, sexual stimulant, sexual vigor stimulant, sexual impotency, erectile dysfunction, etc.) from books containing primary surveys conducted in the original communities and bibliographic surveys prepared by authors linked to the national academic and scientific environment edited in Brazil. Preclinical and clinical studies of the compiled plant species were performed using scientific databases (Scopus, PubMed, SciELO, and SciFinder).

RESULTS

Seventy-four plant species belonging to 44 families used in Brazil to treat sexual dysfunction were compiled from ethnopharmacological literature. Fourteen plants, including Pfaffia glomerata (Spreng.) Pedersen, Aspidosperma quebracho-blanco Schltdl., Anemopaegma arvense (Vell.) Stellfeld ex de Souza, Mimosa pudica L., Heteropterys tomentosa A. Juss., Trichilia catigua A. Juss., and Turnera diffusa Willd. ex Schult. were pharmacologically studied to confirm these therapeutic properties. Probable modes of action include antioxidant and androgenic activities, inhibition of the PDE5 enzyme, increase in NO levels, and activation of dopaminergic and noradrenergic pathways. In addition, several different species popularly known as "catuaba" were identified, leading to adulterations and controversial effects.

CONCLUSION

The overall results of the present review of Brazilian folk literature reveal that Brazil has a long tradition of using plants with potential aphrodisiac effects. However, further research is required to identify, characterize, and standardize the active ingredients and herbal preparations used in aphrodisiacs.

Copper oxide nanoparticles fabricated by green chemistry using Tribulus terrestris seed natural extract-photocatalyst and green electrodes for energy storage device

Nanobiotechnology is a unique class of multiphase and recently become a branch of contemporary science and a paradigm shift in material research. One of the two main problems facing the field of nanomaterial synthesis is the discovery of new natural resources for the biological production of metal nanoparticles and the absence of knowledge about the chemical composition of bio-source required for synthesis and the chemical process or mechanism behind the production of metal nanoparticles presents the second difficulty. We reported template-free green synthesized copper oxide nanoparticles using Tribulus terrestris seed natural extract without any isolation process. XRD, TEM, SEM, UV-Vis, DLS, zeta potential, and BET evaluated the synthesized metal nanoparticle. The TEM analysis confirmed that the CuO NPs are well dispersed and almost round in shape with an average size of 58 nm. EDAX confirms that copper is the prominent metal present in the nanomaterial. The greener fabricated copper oxide nanoparticle was employed to degrade methyl orange dye, almost 84% of methyl orange was degraded within 120 min. The outcomes demonstrated the nanomaterial's effective breakdown of contaminants, highlighting their potential for environmental rehabilitation. The electrochemical investigation of the CuO NPs was utilized for supercapacitor application. An appreciable value of specific capacitance is 369 F/g specific capacitances with 96.4% capacitance retention after 6000 cycles. Overall, the results of the current study show that the biologically produced copper oxide nanoparticles have intriguing uses as photocatalysts for treating water contaminants and are suitable for energy storage devices.

Biological activities of African medicinal plants in the treatment of erectile dysfunction: a mechanistic perspective

The global incidence of erectile dysfunction is increasingly becoming a significant health concern, as its frequency demonstrates a consistent upward trajectory each year. In recent years, FDA-approved drugs like sildenafil among others has been approved to treat this disorder however the drug is not without its own side effects. In a bid to develop alternative therapeutic option, scientists have now turned to traditional medicine in search of a treatment regimen. Africa is blessed with numerous medicinal plants used in the treatment and management of several diseases including erectile dysfunction. Due to limited access to modern medicine and high-quality medical facilities, a significant number of individuals in Africa continue to depend on traditional medicine as a means of addressing critical health issues. Perhaps one of the grossly explored medicinal properties of plants in Africa is for erectile function. Through years of extensive research in medicinal plants, several plants indigenous to Africa have been identified to show profound ability to mitigate erectile dysfunction. While previous reports have indeed corroborated the ability of this plant to abate erectile dysfunction, there is still a dearth of information regarding the mechanistic aspect of these plants. Hence, the current review aims to provide a comprehensive mechanistic perspective to the major African medicinal plant which have been reported to be effective in the treatment of erectile dysfunction.

Harder, better, faster, stronger? Retrospective chart review of adverse events of interactions between adaptogens and antidepressant drugs

Aim: We aimed to systematically evaluate the prevalence and clinical characteristics of adverse events associated with the adaptogens and antidepressant drug interactions in a retrospective chart review. Methodology: A total of 1,816 reports of adverse events were evaluated. Cases were included in the analysis if the pharmacoepidemiological analysis showed the presence of a high probability of a causal relationship between an adaptogen and antidepressant interaction and the occurrence of adverse events. The following data were extracted from the reports: age, sex, antidepressant, plant products containing adaptogens, other concomitant medications, and clinical consequences of the interactions and their possible mechanisms. Results: Adaptogens were involved in 9% of adverse events associated with the concomitant use of antidepressants and other preparations. We identified 30 reports in which side effects presented a causal relationship with the use of antidepressants and adaptogens. Here, we present the list of adaptogens with the corresponding antidepressants and the side effects caused by their interactions: Withania somnifera: reboxetine (testicle pain and ejaculatory dysfunctions), sertraline (severe diarrhea), escitalopram (myalgia, epigastric pain, nausea, vomiting, restless legs syndrome, and severe cough), and paroxetine (generalized myalgia, ophthalmalgia, and ocular hypertension); Eleutherococcus senticosus: duloxetine (upper gastrointestinal bleeding), paroxetine (epistaxis), sertraline (vaginal hemorrhage), and agomelatine (irritability, agitation, headache, and dizziness); Schisandra chinensis: bupropion (arthralgia and thrombocytopenia), amitriptyline (delirium), and fluoxetine (dysuria); Tribulus terrestris: citalopram (generalized pruritus), escitalopram (galactorrhea), and trazodone (psoriasis relapse); Coptis chinensis: mianserin (arrhythmias), mirtazapine (edema of lower limbs and myalgia), and fluoxetine (gynecomastia); Cimicifuga racemosa: mianserin (restless legs syndrome), paroxetine (gynecomastia and mastalgia), and venlafaxine (hyponatremia); Bacopa monnieri: agomelatine (back pain and hyperhidrosis) and moclobemide (myocardial infarction); Gynostemma pentaphyllum: duloxetine (back pain); Cordyceps sinensis: sertraline (upper gastrointestinal bleeding); Lepidium meyenii: mianserin (restless legs syndrome); and Scutellaria baicalensis: bupropion (seizures). Conclusion: Clinicians should monitor the adverse events associated with the concomitant use of adaptogens and antidepressant drugs in patients with mental disorders. Aggregation of side effects and pharmacokinetic interactions (inhibition of CYP and p-glycoprotein) between those medicines may result in clinically significant adverse events.

Phytochemical characterization, antioxidant and antibacterial activities of crude extracts of Anisomeles malabarica and Coldenia procumbens

The aim of this study was to determine the phytochemical profile, antibacterial and antioxidant activities of crude aqueous leaf extracts of Anisomeles malabarica and Coldenia procumbens. The predominant components present in these crude extracts of test plants identified using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) analysis in both plant extracts were phytochemicals including flavonoids, tannins, terpenoids, and phenols. The antibacterial activity of crude extracts of these plants against bacterial pathogens including Escherichia coli, Bacillus subtilis, Shigella sp., Salmonella paratyphi A and B, Proteus mirabilis, Proteus vulgaris, Pseudomonas sp. Klebsiella pneumoniae, and Staphylococcus aureus were examined. Data demonstrated that the extracts of A. malabarica and C. procumbens exhibited significant antibacterial activity against B.subtilis and P.vulgaris at the concentration of 50 mg/ml. A. malabarica aqueous extract displayed significant antioxidant activity on 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazl (DPPH), fluorescence recovery after photobleaching (FRAP) and hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) free radicals at the concentration of 90 mg/ml. The antioxidant activity was significantly higher with A. malabarica than extract of C. procumbens. Evidence indicates that both plant extracts may possess significant pharmaceutical potential as antibacterial and antioxidant agents.

Ethnomedicinal Uses, Phytochemistry, and Anticancer Potentials of African Medicinal Fruits: A Comprehensive Review

Africa is home to diverse medicinal plants that have been used for generations for the treatment of several different cancers and, presently, they are gaining interest from researchers as promising approaches to cancer treatment. This review aims to provide a comprehensive review of dietary and medicinal African fruits including their traditional uses, botanical description, ethnobotanical uses, bioactive phytochemical compositions, and anticancer properties investigated to date in vitro, in vivo, and in clinical studies. Data on recent updates concerning the traditional uses and anticancer properties of these fruits were collected from a myriad of available publications in electronic databases, such as Web of Science, PubMed, ScienceDirect, Scopus, SpringerLink, and Google Scholar. The results suggest that approximately 12 native or commercially grown African fruits belonging to different plant species, including Tribulus terrestris, Xanthium strumarium, Withania somnifera, Xylopia aethiopica, Abelmoschus esculentus, Carissa macrocarpa, Carpobrotus edulis, Syzygium cumini, Kigelia Africana, Annona muricata, Persea americana, and Punica granatum, have been reported for their potential as treatment options for the management of cancer. We further found that approximately eight different fruits from native plant species from Africa, namely, Sclerocarya birrea, Dovyalis caffra, Parinari curatellifolia, Mimusops caffra, Carpobrotus edulis, Vangueria infausta, Harpephyllum caffrum, and Carissa macrocarpa, have been widely used for the traditional treatment of different ailments but somehow failed to gain the interest of researchers for their use in anticancer research. In this review, we show the potential use of various fruits as anticancer agents, such as Tribulus terrestris, Xanthium strumarium, Withania somnifera, Xylopia aethiopica, Abelmoschus esculentus, Carissa macrocarpa, Carpobrotus edulis, Syzygium cumini, Kigelia Africana, Annona muricata, Persea americana, and Punica granatum; unfortunately, not enough reported research data have been published to gain thorough mechanistic insights and clinical applications. Additionally, we discuss the possibility of the utilization of potential phytochemicals from fruits like Persea americana and Punica granatum in anticancer research, as well as future directions.

Xanthosine, a purine glycoside mediates hepatic glucose homeostasis through inhibition of gluconeogenesis and activation of glycogenesis via regulating the AMPK/ FoxO1/AKT/GSK3β signaling cascade

Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM) is characterized by hepatic insulin resistance, which results in increased glucose production and reduced glycogen storage in the liver. There is no previous study in the literature that has explored the role of Xanthosine in hepatic insulin resistance. Moreover, mechanistic explanation for the beneficial effects of Xanthosine in lowering glucose production in diabetes is yet to be determined. This study for the first time investigated the beneficial effects of Tribulus terrestris (TT) and its active constituent, Xanthosine on gluconeogenesis and glycogenesis in Free Fatty Acid (FFA)-induced CC1 hepatocytes and streptozotocin (STZ)-induced Wistar rats. Xanthosine enhanced glucose uptake and decreased glucose production through phosphorylation of AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) and forkhead box transcription factor O1 (FoxO1), and downregulation of two rate limiting enzymes of gluconeogenesis, phosphoenolpyruvate carboxykinase (PEPCK) and glucose-6-phosphatase (G6Pase) expression in FFA-induced CC1 cells. Xanthosine also prevented FFA-induced decreases in the phosphorylation of AKT/Protein kinase B, glycogen synthase kinase-3β (GSK3β), and increased glycogen synthase (GS) phosphorylation to increase the glycogen content in the hepatocytes. Moreover, in STZ-induced diabetic rats, oral administration of TT n-butanol fraction (TTBF) enriched with compound Xanthosine (10, 50 & 100 mg/kg body weight) improved insulin sensitivity, reduced fasting blood glucose levels, improved glucose homeostasis by reducing gluconeogenesis via AMPK/FoxO1-mediated PEPCK and G6Pase down-regulation and increasing glycogenesis via AKT/GSK3β-mediated GS activation. Overall, Xanthosine may be developed further for treating insulin resistance and hyperglycemia in T2DM.

6-Week Supplementation with Tribulus terrestris L. to Trained Male CrossFit® Athletes on Muscle, Inflammation, and Antioxidant Biomarkers: A Randomized, Single-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Trial

Tribulus terrestris L. (TT) ingredients have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities, but their effects on exercise-induced muscle damage (EIMD) in trained athletes are uncertain. The purpose of this single-blind placebo-controlled trial, in accordance with CONSORT guidelines, was to examine the effect of 6 weeks of TT supplementation on muscle metabolism, inflammation biomarkers, and oxidant status. Thirty trained male CrossFit® athletes were randomly assigned to be supplemented with 770 mg/day of TT (intervention group (IG)) or receive a placebo daily (control group (CG)) for 6 weeks. Muscle damage enzymes, inflammation biomarkers, and Total Antioxidant Status (TAS) were assessed at baseline (T1), 21 days after baseline (T2), and after 42 days (T3). Grace, a Workout of the Day, was measured in T1 and T3. Statistical significance (p < 0.05) was found between IG and CG in Lactate Dehydrogenase (LDH), C-reactive protein (CRP), and TAS levels at the end of the follow-up. Furthermore, TAS levels were significantly (p < 0.05) lower at T2 and T3 relative to baseline in the IG, also LDH and CRP increased significantly (p < 0.05) at T2 and T3 relative to baseline in the CG. No significant (p > 0.05) decreases in muscle damage or inflammation biomarkers were observed, although a slight downward trend was observed after 6 weeks for supplemented athletes. TT supplementation could attenuate the CrossFit® training program-induced oxidative stress, muscle damage, and inflammation which could be due to the natural antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of TT.

Tribulus terrestris Cytotoxicity against Breast Cancer MCF-7 and Lung Cancer A549 Cell Lines Is Mediated via Activation of Apoptosis, Caspase-3, DNA Degradation, and Suppressing Bcl-2 Activity

The primary objective of this research was to use flow cytometry to gain mechanistic insights into the cytotoxic effects of Tribulus terrestris extracts on breast cancer (MCF7) and lung cancer (A549) cell lines. T. terrestris was extracted using a Soxhlet apparatus in a progressive process. GC–MS was used to establish the phytochemical constituents. The amounts of phenolic compounds and flavonoids in the plant extracts were calculated using spectrophotometric analysis. The cytotoxicity of plant extracts was initially evaluated in non-malignant L929 cells, then in carcinogenic MCF-7 and A549 cell lines. Then, we performed an Annexin V assay, an anti-Bcl-2 assay, a Caspase-3 assay, and a DNA fragmentation (TUNEL) assay, using flow cytometry to investigate the underlying molecular processes. Based on the data, the methanolic extract of T. terrestris contained the highest amounts of phenolic compounds and flavonoids, with values of 169.87 µg GAE/g dwt and 160.12 µg QE/g dwt, respectively. Analysis by GC–MS revealed the presence of bioactive phytochemicals with proven cytotoxicity. Based on the MTT experiment, we determined that the IC50 values for the methanol extract’s effect on the viability of the MCF-7 and A549 cell lines were 218.19 and 179.62 µg/mL, respectively. The aqueous and methanol extracts were less cytotoxic when tested against the cancer-free L929 cell line (IC50 = 224.35 µg/mL). In both breast and lung cancer cells, the methanolic extract was found to activate caspase-3 and inhibit the Bcl-2 protein, resulting in early and late apoptosis and cell death via DNA damage. These findings point to cytotoxic effects of T. terrestris methanol extract against breast and lung cancer cell lines. Due to its potential as a source of anti-cancer chemotherapeutic medicines, T. terrestris warrants further investigation.

Fructose milieu undermines the therapeutic effect of Tribulus terrestris extract on neuroblastoma cell line via maintaining mitochondrial function

Fructose overconsumption promotes tumor progression. Neuroblastoma is a common extracranial tumor with about 50% 5-year survival rate in high-risk children. The anti-tumor effect of Tribulus terrestris might bring new hope to neuroblastoma therapy. However, whether fructose disturbs the therapeutic effect of T. terrestris is currently unknown. In this study, the mouse neuroblastoma cell line, Neuro 2a (N2a) cells, was used to investigate the therapeutic effects of T. terrestris extract at various dosages (0.01, 1, 100 ng/ml) in regular EMEM medium or extra added fructose (20 mM) for 24 h. 100 ng/ml T. terrestris treatment significantly reduced the cell viability, whereas the cell viabilities were enhanced at the dosages of 0.01 or 1 ng/ml T. terrestris in the fructose milieu instead. The inhibition effect of T. terrestris on N2a migration was blunted in the fructose milieu. Moreover, T. terrestris effectively suppressed mitochondrial functions, including oxygen consumption rates, the activities of electron transport enzymes, the expressions of mitochondrial respiratory enzymes, and mitochondrial membrane potential. These suppressions were reversed in the fructose group. In addition, the T. terrestris-suppressed mitofusin and the T. terrestris-enhance mitochondrial fission 1 protein were maintained at basal levels in the fructose milieu. Together, these results demonstrated that T. terrestris extract effectively suppressed the survival and migration of neuroblastoma via inhibiting mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation and disturbing mitochondrial dynamics. Whereas, the fructose milieu blunted the therapeutic effect of T. terrestris, particularly, when the dosage is reduced.

Tribulus terrestris L. extract ameliorates atherosclerosis by inhibition of vascular smooth muscle cell proliferation in ApoE-/- mice and A7r5 cells via suppression of Akt/MEK/ERK signaling

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Atherosclerosis (AS) is one of major threatens of death worldwide, and vascular smooth muscle cell (VSMC) proliferation is an important characteristic in the progression of AS. Tribulus terrestris L. is a well-known Chinese Materia Medica for treating skin pruritus, vertigo and cardiovascular diseases in traditional Chinese medicine. However, its anti-AS activity and inhibition effect on VSMC proliferation are not fully elucidated.

AIMS

We hypothesize that the furostanol saponins enriched extract (FSEE) of T. terrestris L. presents anti-AS effect by inhibition of VSMC proliferation. The molecular action mechanism underlying the anti-VSMC proliferation effect of FSEE is also investigated.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Apolipoprotein-E deficient (ApoE^-/-) mice and rat thoracic smooth muscle cell A7r5 were employed as the in vivo and in vitro models respectively to evaluate the anti- AS and VSMC proliferation effects of FSEE. In ApoE^-/- mice, the amounts of total cholesterol, triglyceride, low density lipoprotein and high density lipoprotein in serum were measured by commercially available kits. The size of atherosclerotic plaque was observed by hematoxylin & eosin staining. The protein expressions of α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) and osteopontin (OPN) in the plaque were examined by immunohistochemistry. In A7r5 cells, the cell viability and proliferation were tested by MTT and Real Time Cell Analysis assays. The cell migration was evaluated by wound healing assay. Propidium iodide staining followed by flow cytometry was used to analyze the cell cycle progression. The expression of intracellular total and phosphorylated proteins including protein kinase B (Akt) and mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs), such as mitogen-activated extracellular signal-regulated kinase (MEK), extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) and c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK), were detected by western blotting analysis.

RESULTS

FSEE significantly reduced the area of atherosclerotic plaque in high-fat diet-fed ApoE^-/- mice. And FSEE increased the protein expression level of α-SMA and decreased the level of OPN in atherosclerotic plaque, which revealed the inhibition of VSMC phenotype switching and proliferation. In A7r5 cells, FSEE suppressed fetal bovine serum (FBS) or oxidized low density lipoprotein (oxLDL)-triggered VSMC proliferation and migration in a concentration dependent manner. FSEE protected against the elevation of cell numbers in S phase induced by FBS or oxLDL and the reduction of cell numbers in G₀/G₁ phase induced by oxLDL. Moreover, the phosphorylation of Akt and MAPKs including MEK, ERK and JNK could be facilitated by FBS or oxLDL, while co-treatment of FSEE attenuated the phosphorylation of Akt induced by oxLDL as well as the phosphorylation of MEK and ERK induced by FBS. In addition, (25R)-terrestrinin B (JL-6), which was the main ingredient of FSEE, and its potential active pharmaceutical ingredients tigogenin (Tigo) and hecogenin (Heco) also significantly attenuated FBS or oxLDL-induced VSMC proliferation in A7r5 cells.

CONCLUSION

FSEE presents potent anti- AS and VSMC proliferation activities and the underlying mechanism is likely to the suppression of Akt/MEK/ERK signaling. The active components of FSEE are JL-6 and its potential active pharmaceutical ingredients Tigo and Heco. So, FSEE and its active compounds may be potential therapeutic drug candidates for AS.

Effect of Tribulus terrestris L. supplementation on Exercise-Induced Oxidative Stress and Delayed Onset Muscle Soreness Markers: A Pilot Study

Tribulus terrestris L. contains compounds with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, but its effects on exercise-induced oxidative stress and inflammatory responses are unclear. The aim of this study was to examine whether Tribulus terrestris L. supplementation can attenuate oxidative stress and inflammatory responses to acute aerobic exercise and improve DOMS. In a randomized, double-blind, crossover design study, thirteen healthy men received either a daily supplement of Tribulus terrestris L. or a placebo for 4 weeks (2-week wash-out period between trials). Before and after the supplementation periods, participants performed an exercise test to exhaustion (75% VO2max). DOMS, thigh girth, and knee joint range of motion (KJRM) were assessed before and after the exercise (2, 24, and 48 h). Blood samples were analyzed for reduced (GSH) and oxidized (GSSG) glutathione, GSH/GSSG ratio, protein carbonyls, total antioxidant capacity, creatine kinase activity, white blood cell count, and TBARS. Acute exercise to exhaustion induced inflammatory responses and changed the blood redox status in both Tribulus and Placebo groups (p < 0.050). Tribulus terrestris L. improved GSH fall (p = 0.005), GSSG rise (p = 0.001) and maintained a higher level of GSH/GSSG ratio at the 2 h point (p = 0.034). TBARS were lowered, protein carbonyls, creatine kinase activity, and white blood cell count elevation diminished significantly (p < 0.050). Tribulus terrestris L. administration did not affect DOMS, thigh girth, or KJRM (p > 0.050). 4-weeks of Tribulus terrestris L. supplementation effectively attenuates oxidative stress responses but cannot improve DOMS.

Medicinal plants' proposed nanocomposites for the management of endocrine disorders

Extensive attention has been focused on herbal medicine for the treatment of different endocrine disorders. In fact, compelling scientific evidence indicates that natural compounds might act as endocrine modulators by mimicking, stimulating, or inhibiting the actions of different hormones, such as thyroid, sex, steroidal, and glucose regulating hormones. These potentials might be effectively employed for therapeutic purposes related to the endocrine system as novel complementary choices. Nevertheless, despite the remarkable therapeutic effects, inadequate targeting efficiency and low aqueous solubility of the bioactive components are still essential challenges in their clinical accreditation. On the other hand, nanotechnology has pushed the wheels of combining inorganic nanoparticles with biological structures of medicinal bioactive compounds as one of the utmost exciting fields of research. Nanoparticle conjugations create an inclusive array of applications that provide greater compliance, higher bioavailability, and lower dosage. This can safeguard the global availability of these wealthy natural sources, regardless of their biological occurrence. This review inspects future challenges of medicinal plants in various endocrine disorders for safe and alternative treatments with examples of their nanoparticle formulations.

The effect of Tribulus terrestris supplementation on inflammation, oxidative stress, and performance of recreational runners: study protocol for a randomized placebo-controlled trial

Background

High intensity and endurance exercises lead to exercise-induced oxidative stress (EIOS), exercise-induced muscle damage (EIMD), and inflammation, which are the influencing factors on muscle soreness, localized swelling, and sports performance decrease. Therefore, the purpose of this study is to determine the effectiveness of Tribulus terrestris (TT) as an herbal supplement with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties on the nutritional, oxidative, inflammatory, and anti-inflammatory status, as well as the sports performance of recreational runners.

Methods/design

This study is a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial, which will be conducted among recreational runners of Tabriz stadiums, Iran. Thirty-four recreational runners will be selected, and participants will be assigned randomly to two groups: to receive 500 mg TT supplement or placebo capsules twice daily for 2 weeks. Both groups will do high-intensity interval training (HIIT) workouts during the study. Baseline and post-intervention body composition, muscle pain, and aerobic and anaerobic performance will be assessed. In addition, assessment of malondialdehyde (MDA), total antioxidant capacity (TAC), total oxidant status (TOS), superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), uric acid (UA), 8-iso-prostaglandin F2α (8-iso-PGF2α), protein carbonyl (PC), catalase (CAT), glutathione (GSH), nitric oxide (NO), high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP), interleukin-6 (IL-6), interleukin-10 (IL-10), tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), creatine kinase (CK), myoglobin (MYO), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) irisin, cortisol, and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) will be done during three blood samplings. Changes in oxidative stress, anti/inflammatory biomarkers, and sports performance will be assessed as primary outcomes.

Discussion

This study will be the first to assess the potential effects of TT on recreational runners. Our results will contribute to the growing body of knowledge regarding TT supplementation on the nutritional, oxidative, inflammatory, and anti-inflammatory status and sports performance in recreational runners.

Trial registration

Iranian Registry of Clinical Trials (www.irct.ir) (ID: IRCT20150205020965N8). Registration date: 13 February 2021.

Effects of Tribulus terrestris L. on Sport and Health Biomarkers in Physically Active Adult Males: A Systematic Review

Tribulus terrestris L. (TT) is a plant used in traditional Chinese medicine, Ayurvedic medicine, and sports nutrition to improve health and performance. However, no conclusive evidence exists about the potential beneficial effects of TT on sport and health biomarkers in physically active adults. Based on the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines, and the modified McMaster Critical Review Form for methodological quality assessment, we systematically reviewed studies indexed in Web of Science, Scopus, and PubMed, to assess the effects of TT on immunological, hematological, biochemical, renal, lipidic, hormonal behavior, and anti-inflammatory response in physically active adult males. Among 340 records identified in the search, a total of 7 studies met the inclusion and exclusion criteria. Overall, participants supplemented with TT displayed significant improvements in lipid profile. Inflammatory and hematological biomarkers showed moderate beneficial effects with no significant changes on renal biomarkers. No positive effects were observed on the immune system response. Additionally, no TT-induced toxicity was reported. In conclusion, there was no clear evidence of the beneficial effects of TT supplementation on muscle damage markers and hormonal behavior. More studies are needed to confirm the benefits of TT due to the limited number of studies available in the current literature.

Growth Performance, Histological Changes and Functional Tests of Broiler Chickens Fed Diets Supplemented with Tribulus Terrestris Powder

The current experiment aimed to investigate the effects of TT powder on performance parameters and functional tests, as well as on morphological and histological changes in the liver, kidney and ileum in broiler chickens. Commercial broilers (total = 168 females) were used, equally divided into three dietary treatments (C = 0.0, T1 = 0.75, and T2 = 1.5 g/kg diet). The growth performance (1−35 days of age), absolute and relative weight, liver and kidney functional tests, intestinal morphology (14 and 35 days of age), and histomorphology of the ileum (35 days of age) were evaluated. At 35 days of age, histopathological changes in the ileum, liver, and kidney were also examined. The results showed that the growth performance and absolute and relative weights of the liver and kidney had no negative effects when dietary supplementation with TT powder was given at 0.75 g/kg diet (T1), whereas a decrease was observed at T2 (p < 0.05). Liver and kidney functional tests showed no significant effects in all feed treatments (14 days), while T1 showed lower (p < 0.05) ALT and AST levels (35 days). T1 exhibited higher weights, lengths, and weight-to-length ratios of the small intestine, and relative lengths of the duodenum (p < 0.05). Histomorphometric measurements of the ileum were higher (p < 0.05) in chickens fed the 0.75 g TT/kg diet, and except for in the goblet cell count and epithelial thickness, there were no differences between treatments (p > 0.05). In T1, hepatocytes were more normal but hepatic sinusoids were dilated, whereas in T2, lymphocytes had infiltrated around the central vein and lining endothelial cells had been lost. The kidney was improved in T1 and T2 compared with the control group. Ileal villi were shorter in T2, and some villi fused with enterocyte necrosis and inflammatory cells accumulated in the lumen. We concluded that TT powder (0.75 g/kg feed) has a safe effect and is healthy for broilers.

Effect of an Ayurveda antidote Dooshivishari Agada in carboplatin induced myelosuppression in Male Wistar rats

Background

Carboplatin is one of the common chemotherapeutic agents in the management of various malignant conditions. Myelosuppression remains one of the major adverse effects of it that leads to compromised quality of life and can procrastinate or cease the chemotherapy regimen. Increasing shreds of evidence suggest the role of Complementary and alternate medicine in palliative cancer care. Ayurveda has prescribed Dooshivishari Agada (DVA) as an anti-dote for similar conditions mentioned above which arise out of sub-lethal toxic substances called Dooshivisha (DV).

Objective

The present study was carried out to evaluate the role of DVA in myelosuppression among rats.

Method

Male Wistar rats weighing 250–275 g were divided into three groups, Group I was administered normal saline and acted as Normal control. Group II and III received a single dose of carboplatin (60 mg/kg through the tail vein) on day one and acted as disease control. Group III received experimental drug DVA 256 mg/kg orally for the next 18 days. Animals were bled on days 0, 3, 6, 9, 12, 15, 18 for hematological analysis.

Results

DVA prolonged the nadir time for Hb, RBC, and WBC counts from day 9 to day 12 when compared to the carboplatin group. In terms of Platelet count, there was no significant difference over carboplatin. Group III showed a significant increase in Total reticulocyte count in comparison to group II.

Conclusion

Present study showed that DVA may help in delaying the myelosuppression which needs further evaluation.

Potent Inhibition of Human Cytochrome P450 3A4 by Biflavone Components from Ginkgo Biloba and Selaginella Tamariscina

CYP3A4-mediated Phase I biotransformation is the rate-limiting step of elimination for many commonly used clinically agents. The modulatory effects of herbal medicines on CYP3A4 activity are one of the risk factors affecting the safe use of drug and herbal medicine. In the present study, the inhibitory effects of nearly hundred kinds of herbal medicines against CYP3A4 were evaluated based on a visual high-throughput screening method. Furthermore, biflavone components including bilobetin (7-demethylginkgetin, DGK), ginkgetin (GK), isoginkgetin (IGK), and amentoflavone (AMF) were identified as the main inhibitory components of Ginkgo biloba L. (GB) and Selaginella tamariscina (P. Beauv.) Spring (ST), which displayed very strong inhibitory effects toward CYP3A4. The inhibitory effects of these biflavones on clinical drugs that mainly undergo CYP3A4-dependent metabolism were evaluated. The IC₅₀ of GK toward tamoxifen, gefitinib and ticagrelor were found to be of 0.478 ± 0.003, 0.869 ± 0.001, and 1.61 ± 0.039 μM, respectively. These results suggest the potential pharmacokinetic interactions between the identified biflavones and clinical drugs undergoing CYP3A4-mediated biotransformation. The obtained information is important for guiding the rational use of herbal medicine in combination with synthetic pharmaceuticals.

Traditional Medicinal Plants—A Possible Source of Antibacterial Activity on Respiratory Diseases Induced by Chlamydia pneumoniae, Haemophilus influenzae, Klebsiella pneumoniae and Moraxella catarrhalis

Background. Nowadays, phytotherapy offers viable solutions in managing respiratory infections, disorders known for considerable incidence in both children and adults. In a context in which more and more people are turning to phytotherapy, finding new remedies is a topical goal of researchers in health and related fields. This paper aims to identify those traditional medicinal plants that show potentially antibacterial effects against four Gram-negative germs (Chlamydia pneumoniae, Haemophilus influenzae, Klebsiella pneumoniae, and Moraxella catarrhalis), which are considered to have high involvement in respiratory infections. Furthermore, a comparison with Romanian folk medicines was performed. Methods. An extensive review of books and databases was undertaken to identify vegetal species of interest in the context of the topic. Results. Some traditional Romanian species (such as Mentha × piperita, Thymus vulgaris, Pinus sylvestris, Allium sativum, Allium cepa, Ocimum basilicum, and Lavandulaangustifolia) were identified and compared with the plants and preparations confirmed as having antibacterial effects against specific germs. Conclusions. The antibacterial effects of some traditionally used Romanian medicinal plants are poorly investigated, and deserve further attention.

Phytochemical, Antioxidant, Toxicological, and Pharmaceutical Evaluation of Polyherbal Formulation: Irochel

Background and Purpose: Irochel is a polyherbal formulation, comprises ethanolic extracts of Emblica officinalis, Cucurbita pepo L, Triticum aestivum, Fagonia cretica, Momordica charantia, and Tribulus terristris. It is prepared for the management of iron overload in transfusion-dependent thalassemia patients in which non-transfusion binds iron-produced reactive oxygen species ROS that causes severe damages to the organs leads to death. Research Study: In this study, phytochemical, antioxidant-DPPH assay, cytotoxicity, acute, and subacute toxicity in Wistar rats according to OECD guidelines 423 and 407, respectively, was carried out. The pharmaceutical analysis was conducted following standard protocols. Results: The results exhibited that each herb has a rich amount of phytochemical constituents. The DPPH assay showed IC50 values for Irochel and Gallic Acid 106.6 ± 4.28 [uM] and 21.8 ± 1.03 [uM], respectively. The LC50 124.327 μg/ml was obtained in cytotoxicity. In acute toxicity (14 days) and subacute toxicity (28 days) studies, the results revealed no treatment-related toxic manifestations, or mortality. Therefore, LD50 was found > 5000 mg/kg. However, there was some hematological and biochemical variations observed at 3 different doses of 2000, 300, and 50 mg/kg bw. Conclusion: Thus, Irochel has significant antioxidant activity and it is a safe drug for human use.

Terrestrosin D, a spirostanol saponin from Tribulus terrestris L. with potential hepatorenal toxicity

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Fructus Tribuli (FT) has been commonly used as a traditional medicine for thousands of years. With the diverse uses of FT, more attention has been paid to its hepatorenal toxicity. However, the compounds causing the hepatorenal toxicity of FT remain undetermined. Terrestrosin D (TED), a major spirostanol saponin isolated from FT, may exert hepatorenal toxicity.

AIM OF THE STUDY

This study aimed to evaluate the potential hepatorenal toxicity of TED, and preliminarily explore the possible mechanism of TED-induced hepatorenal toxicity.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Cytotoxicity assays, a repeated-dose 28-day in-vivo study, a toxicokinetic study, and a tissue distribution study were used to evaluate the potential hepatorenal toxicity of TED. Furthermore, network pharmacology was applied to preliminarily explore the possible mechanism of TED-induced hepatorenal toxicity.

RESULTS

Both the in vitro and in vivo studies showed that the spirostanol saponin TED had potential hepatorenal toxicity. Nonetheless, hepatorenal toxicity induced by oral treatment with TED at a dosage range of 5 - 15 mg/kg daily for 28 consecutive days to Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats was reversible after 14 days of TED withdrawal. The toxicokinetic study demonstrated that the systematic exposure of SD rats to TED had an accumulation phenomenon and a dose-dependent trend after a 28-day repeated-dose oral administration. The tissue distribution study revealed that TED had a targeted distribution in the liver and kidneys accompanied by a phenomenon of accumulation in SD rats. Network pharmacology combined with molecular docking methods was used to screen for the key targets (HSP90AA1, CNR1, and DRD2) and the key pathways of TED-induced hepatorenal toxicity.

CONCLUSIONS

The spirostanol saponin TED, a major spirostanol saponin isolated from FT, had potential hepatorenal toxicity.

Phytochemical, Cytotoxic, and Antimicrobial Evaluation of Tribulus terrestris L., Typha domingensis Pers., and Ricinus communis L.: Scientific Evidences for Folkloric Uses

Many medicinal plants have been utilized for centuries despite the lack of scientific evidence of their therapeutic effects. This study evaluated the phytochemical and dual biological profiling, namely, antibacterial and cytotoxic properties, of three plant species, namely, Tribulus terrestris L., Typha domingensis Pers., and Ricinus communis L., in order to explore potential relationships (if any) with their ethnopharmacological uses. GC-MS was used to achieve phytochemical screening of two plant extracts (T. terrestris and T. domingensis). The primary chemicals detected in varying amounts in both extracts were siloxane derivatives, fatty acid esters, diisooctyl phthalate, phytosterol, and aromatic acid esters. According to the findings, the major component detected in both extracts was 1,2-benzenedicarboxylic acid and diisooctyl ester (antibacterial and antifungal). T. domingensis contained a low level of benzoic acid, methyl ester (antibacterial). Both extracts included stigmasterol and sitosterol, as well as six different forms of fatty acid esters. Antimicrobial, antioxidant, anticancer, thyroid inhibitor, and anti-inflammatory properties have all been described. Human breast adenocarcinoma (MCF7), human ovary adenocarcinoma (A2780), and human colon adenocarcinoma (HT29), as well as normal human fetal lung fibroblasts (MRC5), all showed cytotoxic activity. The most potent activity against A2780 cells was seen in T. terrestris and T. domingensis extracts (IC50: 3.69 and 5.87 g/mL, respectively). R. communis was more active against MCF7 cells (1.52 μg/mL) followed by A2780 and HT29 cells, respectively. R. communis showed a dose-dependent clonogenic effect against MCF7 cells. The antibacterial activity of all three plant extracts was tested against three standard Gram-positive, four standard Gram-negative, and two clinical bacterial strains. Among the three extracts examined, T. terrestris was the most effective, followed by R. communis, and finally, T. domingensis plant extract was effective against various isolated bacteria. This study, interestingly, sheds light on the bioactive components found in plant extracts that can be utilized for cytotoxic and antibacterial purposes.

Tribulus terrestris L. protects glomerular endothelial cells via the miR155-H2AC6 interaction network in hypertensive renal injury

Background

Hypertensive renal injury is one of the most lethal complications of hypertension. At present, renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS) blockers are considered the best drugs for the treatment of renal injury in hypertension because of their nephroprotective effect of reducing proteinuria, but there are no specific drugs for this purpose, however, clinical trials proved that Chinese medicine has a protective effect on target organs in the treatment of hypertension. Tribulus terrestris L. (TrT), a traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), has potential applications due to its reno-protective and immunomodulatory effects.

Methods

We investigated the underlying reno-protective mechanism of TrT on Angiotensin II (AngII)-induced hypertensive renal injury in glomerular endothelial cells by integrating the differential expression profiles of micro RNA (miRNA) and messenger RNA (mRNA) to construct a miRNA-mRNA interaction network associated with hypertensive kidney injury, followed by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) for validation.

Results

Seventy-six differentially expressed mRNAs (DEmRNAs) and 1 differentially expressed miRNAs (DEmiRNAs) were identified in the control group and the AngII-induced hypertensive renal injury group, respectively. 110 DEmRNAs and 27 DEmiRNAs were identified in the TrT treatment group and the AngII-induced group, respectively. The core component of the miRNA-mRNA network was miR-155-5p. Our study showed that miR-155-5p expression levels were more decreased in the AngII-induced hypertensive renal injury group than the control group. TrT treatment also significantly upregulated miR-155-5p. Additionally, we found that miR-155-5p expression levels were negatively correlated with H2A clustered histone 6 (H2AC6).

Conclusions

The results of this study indicate that TrT has a reno-protective effect on AngII-induced hypertensive renal injury by miR-155-5p, which negatively regulates the expression of H2AC6. Our findings offer a new therapeutic strategy and have identified an effective candidate target for the treatment of hypertensive renal injury in clinical settings.

Diosgenin inhibits the proliferation of gastric cancer cells via inducing mesoderm posterior 1 down-regulation-mediated alternative reading frame expression

INTRODUCTION

Whether and how mesoderm posterior 1 (MESP1) plays a role in the proliferation of gastric cancer cells remain unclear.

METHODS

The expression of MESP1 was compared in 48 human gastric cancer tissues and adjacent normal tissues. Knockdown of MESP1 was performed to investigate the role of MESP1 in the proliferation and apoptosis of BGC-823 and MGC-803 gastric cancer cells. Knockdown of alternative reading frame (ARF) was performed to study the role of ARF in the inhibitory effect of MESP1 knockdown on cell proliferation in gastric cancer cells. Mouse subcutaneous xenograft tumor model bearing BGC-823 cells was used to investigate the role of MESP1 in the growth of gastric tumor in vivo. The effect of seven active ingredients from T. terrestris on MESP1 expression was tested. The anti-cancer effect of diosgenin was confirmed in gastric cancer cells. MESP1 dependence of the anti-cancer effect of diosgenin was confirmed by MESP1 knockdown.

RESULTS

MESP1 was highly expressed in human gastric cancer tissues (p < 0.05). MESP1 knockdown induced apoptosis and up-regulated the expression of ARF in gastric cancer cells (p < 0.05). Knockdown of ARF attenuated the anti-cancer effect of MESP1 knockdown (p < 0.05). In addition, MESP1 knockdown also suppressed tumor growth in vivo (p < 0.05). Diosgenin inhibits both mRNA and protein expression of MESP1 (p < 0.05). MESP1 knockdown attenuated the anti-cancer effect of diosgenin (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

MESP1 promotes the proliferation of gastric cancer cells via inhibiting ARF expression. Diosgenin exerts anti-cancer effect through inhibiting MESP1 expression in gastric cancer cells.

Effect of Tribulus Terrestris in the Treatment of Female Sexual Dysfunction and Clitoral Vascularization. Results of a Randomized Study Comparing Two Different Dosage Regimes

We evaluated the efficacy of Tribulus terrestris in two different dosage regimes for the treatment of sexual dysfunction in pre and postmenopausal women and its effect on the vascular resistance of the clitoral artery using Power Doppler. A total of 104 women were randomly assigned to receive 94mg, three times/day (TT3) or 280mg once/day for 90 days (TT1). Evaluation was performed using FSFI and QS-F questionnaires, serum levels of prolactin, TSH, total testosterone and SHBG, and clitoral artery assessment with Power Doppler ultrasound. FSFI results demonstrated an improvement in all domains in both groups (P < 0.05) except for the "Satisfaction" in the TT3 premenopausal group. QS-F results showed a significant improvement in the mean total score in women of both reproductive phases, for both groups. Postmenopausal patients improved in all sexual domains, except for "orgasm" in the TT1 group. PI of the clitoral artery showed no difference in both reproductive phases, in both groups. We conclude that TTerrestris can be a safe alternative for the treatment of sexual dysfunction in pre and postmenopausal women as it is effective in reducing the symptoms with no side effects. Moreover, its use, increased total, free and bioavailable testosterone.

Tribulus terrestris fruit extract inhibits autophagic flux to diminish cell proliferation and metastatic characteristics of oral cancer cells

Elevated autophagy is highly associated with cancer development and progression. Fruit extracts of several plants inhibit activity of autophagy-related protease ATG4B and autophagy activity in colorectal cancer cells. However, the effects of these plant extracts in oral cancer cells remain unclear. In this study, we found that the extracted Tribulus terrestris fruit (TT-(fr)) and Xanthium strumarium fruit had inhibitory effects on autophagy inhibition in both SAS and TW2.6 oral cancer cells. Moreover, the fruit extracts had differential effects on cell proliferation of oral cancer cells. In addition, the fruit extracts hampered cell migration and invasion of oral cancer cells, particularly in TT-(fr) extracts. Our results indicated that TT-(fr) extracts consistently inhibited autophagic flux, cell growth and metastatic characteristics of oral cancer cells, suggesting TT-(fr) might contain function ingredient to suppress oral cancer cells.

Tribulus terrestris Efficacy and Safety Concerns in Diabetes and Erectile Dysfunction, Assessed in an Experimental Model

The present project aims to evaluate Tribulus terrestris (TT) extracts by addressing various possible mechanisms of action in order to see whether the use of TT supplements in diabetes and diabetes complications is justified. Diabetic rats were divided into three groups: diabetic control group, TT extract with low protodioscin content group (TT-LPC) and TT extract with high protodioscin content group (TT-HPC). After twelve weeks of treatment, fasting blood glucose, insulin, LH, FSH and testosterone levels were measured. Both TT preparations reduced elevated blood glucose level. Insulin and luteinizing hormone levels were not significantly different compared with the control group; however, the FSH and testosterone levels were significantly higher in the TT-HPC group compared with the diabetic control group. The testosterone level is correlated in part with the protodioscin concentration in extracts and is probably mediated through an FSH-linked pathway.

Plants-Derived Biomolecules as Potent Antiviral Phytomedicines: New Insights on Ethnobotanical Evidences against Coronaviruses

SARS-CoV-2 infection (COVID-19) is in focus over all known human diseases, because it is destroying the world economy and social life, with increased mortality rate each day. To date, there is no specific medicine or vaccine available against this pandemic disease. However, the presence of medicinal plants and their bioactive molecules with antiviral properties might also be a successful strategy in order to develop therapeutic agents against SARS-CoV-2 infection. Thus, this review will summarize the available literature and other information/data sources related to antiviral medicinal plants, with possible ethnobotanical evidence in correlation with coronaviruses. The identification of novel antiviral compounds is of critical significance, and medicinal plant based natural compounds are a good source for such discoveries. In depth search and analysis revealed several medicinal plants with excellent efficacy against SARS-CoV-1 and MERS-CoV, which are well-known to act on ACE-2 receptor, 3CLpro and other viral protein targets. In this review, we have consolidated the data of several medicinal plants and their natural bioactive metabolites, which have promising antiviral activities against coronaviruses with detailed modes of action/mechanism. It is concluded that this review will be useful for researchers worldwide and highly recommended for the development of naturally safe and effective therapeutic drugs/agents against SARS-CoV-2 infection, which might be used in therapeutic protocols alone or in combination with chemically synthetized drugs.

Principles of Rajayakshma management for COVID-19

The pandemic spread of corona virus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has become a global threat. No cure is available for this condition till date. Ayurveda, may come to rescue in these times of COVID-19 spread. In this review we have analyzed that the COVID-19 has analogy with the Rajayakshma (∼a wasting disease indicating suboptimum immune response) and the established treatment of Rajayakshma disease can be proposed for preventive as well as curative purpose.