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Yang X, Wang Y, Li J, Tai Y, Yang K, Lv J, Sun J, Zhang H. From waste to wonder: exploring the hypoglycemic and anti-oxidant properties of corn processing by-products. Front Chem 2024; 12:1433501. [PMID: 39104778 PMCID: PMC11299435 DOI: 10.3389/fchem.2024.1433501] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2024] [Accepted: 06/28/2024] [Indexed: 08/07/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction: The industrial processing of corn (Zeamays L.) generates by-products such as corn silk, straw peels, and straw core, which contribute to adverse environmental impacts. Our study aimed to investigate sustainable approaches for mitigating these effects by evaluating the hypoglycemic potential and mechanisms of ethyl acetate fractions derived from these corn derivatives. Methods: We employed glucose consumption assays, high glucose stress tests, UPLC-QE-Orbitrap-MS analysis, molecular docking, and simulations to assess their components and efficacy. Antioxidant capacities were evaluated using DPPH, FRAP, ABTS, and •OH scavenging assays. Results: Notably, the ethyl acetate fraction extracted from straw peels (SPE) exhibited a high concentration of flavonoids and phenolic compounds along with pronounced hypoglycemic activity and antioxidant capacity. SPE significantly enhanced glucose consumption in insulin-resistant HepG2 cells while protecting HUVECs against damage caused by high glucose levels. Molecular docking analyses confirmed the interaction between active compounds and α-glucosidase as well as α-amylase, while molecular dynamic simulations indicated stability at their binding sites. Discussion: In conclusion, the hypoglycemic and antioxidative properties observed in corn by-products such as straw peels, corn silk, and straw core can be attributed to the inhibition of α-glucosidase and α-amylase activities, coupled with their rich phenolic and flavonoid content. These findings highlight the potential of these by-products for applications in healthcare management and their sustainable utilization, demonstrating significant value in the use of agricultural residues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoqian Yang
- Jilin Ginseng Academy, Changchun University of Chinese Medicine, Changchun, China
| | - Yuelong Wang
- Jilin Ginseng Academy, Changchun University of Chinese Medicine, Changchun, China
| | - Jingfeng Li
- College of Pharmacy, Changchun University of Chinese Medicine, Changchun, China
| | - Yuxing Tai
- Department of Acupuncture and Tuina, Changchun University of Chinese Medicine, Changchun, China
| | - Kunping Yang
- Jilin Ginseng Academy, Changchun University of Chinese Medicine, Changchun, China
| | - Jingwei Lv
- Jilin Ginseng Academy, Changchun University of Chinese Medicine, Changchun, China
| | - Jiaming Sun
- Jilin Ginseng Academy, Changchun University of Chinese Medicine, Changchun, China
| | - Hui Zhang
- Jilin Ginseng Academy, Changchun University of Chinese Medicine, Changchun, China
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Liang H, Zhang R, Zhou L, Wu X, Chen J, Li X, Chen J, Shan L, Wang H. Corn stigma ameliorates hyperglycemia in zebrafish and GK rats of type 2 diabetes. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2024; 325:117746. [PMID: 38216098 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2024.117746] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2023] [Revised: 01/02/2024] [Accepted: 01/09/2024] [Indexed: 01/14/2024]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Cornstigma (CS), derived from the stigma and style of gramineous plant Zeamays. The medicinal use of CS can be traced back to DianNanMateriaMedica. LingnanMedicinalPlantsCompendium records its effectiveness in ameliorating diabetes. Diabetes is a metabolic disorder characterized by hyperglycemia and the consequent chronic complications of kidney, heart, brain and other organs, which pose a significant threat to human health. CS has shown great potential in relieving hyperglycemia associated with diabetes. However, the mechanism of CS in treating diabetes remains unclear. AIM OF THE STUDY To explore the pathogenesis of diabetes and the mechanism of CS improving hyperglycemia in diabetes. MATERIALS AND METHODS We measured apigenin and luteolin contents in CS by UPLC/MS/MS method. Selecting Wistar rats as normal group, and GK rats as model group. For rats, we detected glucose and lipid metabolism indicators, including GHb, AST, ALT, U-Glu, UA, U-TP, U-ALB, and ACR after treatment. For zebrafish, we utilized alloxan and sucrose to establish the diabetes model. Measuring zebrafish blood glucose is employed to evaluate the hypoglycemic capability of CS. In order to explore the mechanism of CS in treating diabetes, we sequenced the transcriptome of zebrafish, compared differentially expressed genes of normal, diabetic, and CS-treated group, and validated multiple enrichment pathways by PCR. RESULTS CS can improve blood glucose levels in both GK rats and diabetic zebrafish. For rats, CS partially restored glucose and lipid metabolism indicators. Transcriptome data from zebrafish showed a close correlation with steroid biosynthesis. The RNA-Sequencing was consistent with PCR results, indicating that CS downregulated gene (fdft1,lss,cyp51) expression concerned with steroid biosynthesis pathway in the diabetes model. CONCLUSION CS effectively improved blood glucose levels, regulated glucose and lipid metabolism by suppressing gene expression in steroid biosynthesis pathway, and ameliorated hyperglycemia. Our research provides valuable insights for CS in the treatment of diabetes, and proposes a new strategy for selecting clinical medications for diabetes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haowei Liang
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China.
| | - Ruiqin Zhang
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China.
| | - Li Zhou
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University (Zhejiang Provincial Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine), Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China.
| | - Xiaolong Wu
- School of Life Sciences, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China.
| | - Jingan Chen
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China.
| | - Xinyue Li
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China.
| | - Jieqiong Chen
- Office of Educational Administration, Zhejiang University of Science and Technology, Hangzhou, China.
| | - Letian Shan
- Fuyang Academy, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China.
| | - Hui Wang
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China; Scientific Research Department, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China; Jinhua Academy, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Jinhua, China.
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Zhou T, Qiu S, Zhang L, Li Y, Zhang J, Shen D, Zhao P, Yuan L, Zhao L, Duan Y, Xing C. Supplementation of Clostridium butyricum Alleviates Vascular Inflammation in Diabetic Mice. Diabetes Metab J 2024; 48:390-404. [PMID: 38310882 PMCID: PMC11140397 DOI: 10.4093/dmj.2023.0109] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2023] [Accepted: 07/10/2023] [Indexed: 02/06/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGRUOUND Gut microbiota is closely related to the occurrence and development of diabetes and affects the prognosis of diabetic complications, and the underlying mechanisms are only partially understood. We aimed to explore the possible link between the gut microbiota and vascular inflammation of diabetic mice. METHODS The db/db diabetic and wild-type (WT) mice were used in this study. We profiled gut microbiota and examined the and vascular function in both db/db group and WT group. Gut microbiota was analyzed by 16s rRNA sequencing. Vascular function was examined by ultrasonographic hemodynamics and histological staining. Clostridium butyricum (CB) was orally administered to diabetic mice by intragastric gavage every 2 days for 2 consecutive months. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) and expression of nuclear factor erythroid-derived 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) and heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) were detected by fluorescence microscopy. The mRNA expression of inflammatory cytokines was tested by quantitative polymerase chain reaction. RESULTS Compared with WT mice, CB abundance was significantly decreased in the gut of db/db mice, together with compromised vascular function and activated inflammation in the arterial tissue. Meanwhile, ROS in the vascular tissue of db/db mice was also significantly increased. Oral administration of CB restored the protective microbiota, and protected the vascular function in the db/db mice via activating the Nrf2/HO-1 pathway. CONCLUSION This study identified the potential link between decreased CB abundance in gut microbiota and vascular inflammation in diabetes. Therapeutic delivery of CB by gut transplantation alleviates the vascular lesions of diabetes mellitus by activating the Nrf2/HO-1 pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tian Zhou
- Department of Ultrasound Diagnostics, Tangdu Hospital, Air Force Medical University, Xi’an, China
| | - Shuo Qiu
- Department of Ultrasound Diagnostics, Tangdu Hospital, Air Force Medical University, Xi’an, China
| | - Liang Zhang
- Department of Ultrasound Diagnostics, Tangdu Hospital, Air Force Medical University, Xi’an, China
| | - Yangni Li
- Department of Aerospace Medicine, Air Force Medical University, Xi’an, China
| | - Jing Zhang
- Department of Ultrasound Diagnostics, Tangdu Hospital, Air Force Medical University, Xi’an, China
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Air Force Medical University, Xi’an, China
| | - Donghua Shen
- Department of Ultrasound Diagnostics, The PLA Rocket Force Characteristic Medical Center, Beijing, China
| | - Ping Zhao
- Department of Ultrasound Diagnostics, Tangdu Hospital, Air Force Medical University, Xi’an, China
| | - Lijun Yuan
- Department of Ultrasound Diagnostics, Tangdu Hospital, Air Force Medical University, Xi’an, China
| | - Lianbi Zhao
- Department of Ultrasound Diagnostics, Tangdu Hospital, Air Force Medical University, Xi’an, China
| | - Yunyou Duan
- Department of Ultrasound Diagnostics, Tangdu Hospital, Air Force Medical University, Xi’an, China
| | - Changyang Xing
- Department of Ultrasound Diagnostics, Tangdu Hospital, Air Force Medical University, Xi’an, China
- Department of Aerospace Medicine, Air Force Medical University, Xi’an, China
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Zhang X, Zheng Y, Wang Z, Gan J, Yu B, Lu B, Jiang X. Melatonin as a therapeutic agent for alleviating endothelial dysfunction in cardiovascular diseases: Emphasis on oxidative stress. Biomed Pharmacother 2023; 167:115475. [PMID: 37722190 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2023.115475] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2023] [Revised: 09/03/2023] [Accepted: 09/07/2023] [Indexed: 09/20/2023] Open
Abstract
The vascular endothelium is vital in maintaining cardiovascular health by regulating vascular permeability and tone, preventing thrombosis, and controlling vascular inflammation. However, when oxidative stress triggers endothelial dysfunction, it can lead to chronic cardiovascular diseases (CVDs). This happens due to oxidative stress-induced mitochondrial dysfunction, inflammatory responses, and reduced levels of nitric oxide. These factors cause damage to endothelial cells, leading to the acceleration of CVD progression. Melatonin, a natural antioxidant, has been shown to inhibit oxidative stress and stabilize endothelial function, providing cardiovascular protection. The clinical application of melatonin in the prevention and treatment of CVDs has received widespread attention. In this review, based on bibliometric studies, we first discussed the relationship between oxidative stress-induced endothelial dysfunction and CVDs, then summarized the role of melatonin in the treatment of atherosclerosis, hypertension, myocardial ischemia-reperfusion injury, and other CVDs. Finally, the potential clinical use of melatonin in the treatment of these diseases is discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaolu Zhang
- Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin 301617, PR China
| | - Yujia Zheng
- Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin 301617, PR China
| | - Ziyu Wang
- Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin 301617, PR China
| | - Jiali Gan
- Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin 301617, PR China
| | - Bin Yu
- Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin 301617, PR China
| | - Bin Lu
- Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin 301617, PR China.
| | - Xijuan Jiang
- Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin 301617, PR China.
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Zhang Y, Liu J, Guan L, Fan D, Xia F, Wang A, Bao Y, Xu Y. By-Products of Zea mays L.: A Promising Source of Medicinal Properties with Phytochemistry and Pharmacological Activities: A Comprehensive Review. Chem Biodivers 2023; 20:e202200940. [PMID: 36721262 DOI: 10.1002/cbdv.202200940] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2022] [Revised: 01/31/2023] [Accepted: 01/31/2023] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
Zea mays (Z. mays) is one of the main cereal crops in the world, and it's by-products have exhibited medicinal properties to explore. This article intends to review the chemical compositions and pharmacological activities of by-products of Z. mays (corn silks, roots, bract, stems, bran, and leaves) which support the therapeutic potential in the treatment of different diseases, with emphasis on the natural occurring compounds and detailed pharmacological developments. Based on this review, 231 natural compounds are presented. Among them, flavonoids, terpenes, phenylpropanoids, and alkaloids are the most frequently reported. The by-products of Z. mays possess diuretic effects, hepatoprotective, anti-diabetic, antioxidant, neuroprotective, anti-inflammatory, anti-cancer, plant protection activity, and other activities. This article reviewed the phytochemistry and pharmacological activities of Z. mays for comprehensive quality control and the safety and effectiveness to enhance future application.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yunqiang Zhang
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang, 110016, China
- Key Laboratory of Structure-Based Drug Design & Discovery, Ministry of Education, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang, 110016, China
| | - Jianyu Liu
- Key Laboratory of Structure-Based Drug Design & Discovery, Ministry of Education, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang, 110016, China
- School of Pharmaceutical Engineering, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang, 110016, P. R. China
| | - Lu Guan
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang, 110016, China
- Key Laboratory of Structure-Based Drug Design & Discovery, Ministry of Education, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang, 110016, China
| | - Dongxue Fan
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang, 110016, China
- Key Laboratory of Structure-Based Drug Design & Discovery, Ministry of Education, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang, 110016, China
| | - Feiruo Xia
- Key Laboratory of Structure-Based Drug Design & Discovery, Ministry of Education, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang, 110016, China
- School of Pharmacy, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang, 110016, China
| | - Andong Wang
- School of Pharmacy, Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu 226001, P. R. China
| | - Ying Bao
- Key Laboratory of Structure-Based Drug Design & Discovery, Ministry of Education, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang, 110016, China
- School of Pharmaceutical Engineering, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang, 110016, P. R. China
| | - Yongnan Xu
- Key Laboratory of Structure-Based Drug Design & Discovery, Ministry of Education, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang, 110016, China
- School of Pharmaceutical Engineering, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang, 110016, P. R. China
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Extraction Optimization, Preliminary Identification, and Bioactivities in Corn Silk. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE 2023; 2023:5685174. [PMID: 36777625 PMCID: PMC9911244 DOI: 10.1155/2023/5685174] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2021] [Revised: 10/08/2022] [Accepted: 10/11/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
For thousands of years, corn silk has been widely used as an antidiabetic, antioxidant, and antihyperlipidemic and for other effects, but there is a lack of studies that correlate the extracts of flavonoid composition with their biological activities. Thus, the objectives of this study were to optimize the conditions for extracting flavonoids, identify flavonoids, and correlate the flavonoid composition with the biological activities in corn silk. The response surface experiments showed that the highest flavonoid content was predicted at 45.321 min, 57.349°C, 26.089 mL/g, and 71.269%, respectively. The verification experiment results under these optimized conditions showed an ultrasonic time of 45 min, an ultrasonic temperature of 57°C, a liquid-to-material ratio of 26, and an ethanol volume fraction of 70%. No significant differences (the relative error is 4.378%) were observed between the theoretical and experimental TFC values, indicating that the developed models were accurate. Under these optimum extraction conditions, 20 major compounds were identified and quantified by UPLC-LTQ/Orbitrap MS. Furthermore, these optimum ethanol extracts of corn silk are effective against Bacillus subtilis and hypoglycemic activity compared with the traditional heating reflux extraction method. Six corn silk components seem to be the main contributors to the inhibitory effect against Bacillus subtilis and hyperglycemia activities. These results are useful for the application of corn silk in the food or pharmaceutical industry.
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