Anti-aging Potential of Extracts Prepared from Fruits and Medicinal Herbs Cultivated in the Gyeongnam Area of Korea

Antioxidative Impact of Phenolics-Loaded Nanocarriers on Cytoskeletal Network Remodeling of Invasive Cancer Cells

Natural phenolic compounds have antioxidant properties owing to their free radical-scavenging capability. The combined effect of a mixture of phenolic compounds has been studied; however, the detailed investigation for finding a correlation between single phenolic molecules and antioxidant activity has not been explored. Herein, we revealed that the number of phenolic hydroxyl groups in phenolics played a central role in their antioxidant capacity. Based on the finding, tannic acid showed the most effective antioxidant potential, e.g., 76% in tannic acid versus 22% in vitamin C as a standard antioxidant component. Because cancer progression is closely related to oxidative processes at the cellular level, we further applied the surface treatment of tannic acid drug-delivery nanocarriers. Tannic acid-loaded nanocarriers reduced reactive oxygen species of cancer cells as much as 41% of vehicle treatment and remodeled cytoskeletal network. By a gelatin degradation study, TA-loaded nanocarrier-treated cells induced 44.6% reduction of degraded area than vehicle-treated cells, implying a potential of blocking invasiveness of cancer cells.

Natural Deep Eutectic Extracts of Propolis, Sideritis scardica, and Plantago major Reveal Potential Antiageing Activity during Yeast Chronological Lifespan

Nowadays, the environmentally friendly approach to everyday life routines including body supplementation with pharma-, nutraceuticals and dietary supplements gains popularity. This trend is implemented in pharmaceutical as well as cosmetic and antiageing industries by adopting a newly developed green chemistry approach. Following this trend, a new type of solvents has been created, called Natural Deep Eutectic Solvents (NADES), which are produced by plant primary metabolites. These solvents are becoming a much better alternative to the already established organic solvents like ethanol and ionic liquids by being nontoxic, biodegradable, and easy to make. An interesting fact about NADES is that they enhance the biological activities of the extracted biological compounds. Here, we present our results that investigate the potential antiageing effect of CiAPD14 as a NADES solvent and three plant extracts with it. The tested NADES extracts are from propolis and two well-known medicinal plants—Sideritis scardica and Plantago major. Together with the solvent, their antiageing properties have been tested during the chronological lifespan of four Saccharomyces cerevisiae yeast strains—a wild type and three chromatin mutants. The chromatin mutants have been previously proven to exhibit characteristics of premature ageing. Our results demonstrate the potential antiageing activity of these NADES extracts, which was exhibited through their ability to confer the premature ageing phenotypes in the mutant cells by ameliorating their cellular growth and cell cycle, as well as by influencing the activity of some stress-responsive genes. Moreover, we have classified their antiageing activity concerning the strength of the observed bioactivities.

In vitro antiaging activity of polyphenol rich Polyalthia longifolia (Annonaceae) leaf extract in Saccharomyces cerevisiae BY611 yeast cells

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Polyalthia longifolia var. angustifolia Thw. (Annonaceae) is commonly used in traditional medicine as a tonic for rejuvenation and exhibiting good antioxidant activities.

AIM OF THE STUDY

To evaluate P. longifolia methanolic leaf extract (PLME) antiaging activity at 1 mg/mL in Saccharomyces cerevisiae BY611 yeast.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The antiaging effect of PLME was studied via replicative lifespan assay, antioxidative stress assays, reactive oxygen species (ROS) determination, reduced glutathione (GSH) determination, superoxide dismutase (SOD) and Sirtuin 1 (SIRT1) genes regulation studies and SOD and SIRT1 proteins activities.

RESULTS

The PLME treatment increased the growth and prolonged the lifespan of the yeast significantly (p < 0.05) compared to the untreated yeast group. Besides, the PLME also protected the yeast from oxidative stress induced by 4-mM-H₂O₂ via decreasing (p < 0.05) the ROS from 143.207 to 127.223. The antioxidative action of PLME was proved by spot assay. Phloxine B staining was further confirmed the PLME antioxidative action of PLME, where more whitish-pink live yeast cells were observed. In addition, the PLME also enhanced GSH content significantly (p < 0.05) in yeast treated with PLME from 16.81 to 25.31 μmol. Furthermore, PLME increased the SOD and SIRT1 genes expression significantly (p < 0.05) with ΔCt values of 1.11 and 1.15, respectively. The significantly (p < 0.05) elevated SOD and SIRT1 protein activities were recorded as 51.54 U/mg Prot and 1716 ng/mL, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

PLME exhibited good antiaging activities in S. cerevisiae, by modulating oxidative stress, enhancing GSH content, and increasing SOD and SIRT1 genes expression.

Diospyros kaki extract protects myoblasts from oxidative stress-induced cytotoxicity via secretions derived from intestinal epithelium

Under oxidative stress, reactive oxygen species (ROS) alter signal transduction and induce macromolecular damage in cells. Such oxidative damage can lead to sarcopenia, an age-related syndrome characterized by a progressive loss of mass and strength of skeletal muscles. Because food components do not directly come in contact with muscle cells, we focused on the effects of secretions produced by stimulated intestinal epithelial cells on oxidative stress in myoblast cells. An extract of Diospyros kaki was fractionated using different concentrations of ethanol. Each fraction showed different levels of antioxidant and phenolic compounds. The biological activity was evaluated using a Caco-2 cell coculture system. Secretions from Caco-2 cells exposed to 0.5 mg/mL D. kaki extract attenuated the oxidative stress-induced reduction of C2C12 cell viability, suggesting that the D. kaki extract could stimulate intestinal epithelial cells to produce secretions that reduce oxidative stress in myoblasts in vitro.

Antioxidant Activities and Protective Effects of Dendropachol, a New Bisbibenzyl Compound from Dendrobium pachyglossum, on Hydrogen Peroxide-Induced Oxidative Stress in HaCaT Keratinocytes

Five compounds including a new bisbibenzyl named dendropachol (1) and four known compounds (2–5) comprising 4,5-dihydroxy-2,3-dimethoxy-9,10-dihydrophenanthrene (2), gigantol (3), moscatilin (4) and 4,5,4′-trihydroxy-3,3′-dimethoxybibenzyl (5) were isolated from a methanolic extract of Dendrobium pachyglossum (Orchidaceae). The chemical structures of the isolated compounds were characterized by spectroscopic methods. Dendropachol (1) was investigated for its protective effects on hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂)-induced oxidative stress in HaCaT keratinocytes. Compound 1 showed strong free radical scavenging compared to the positive control. For the cytoprotective effect, compound 1 increased the activities of GPx and CAT and the level of GSH but reduced intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation and accumulation. In addition, compound 1 significantly diminished the expression of p53, Bax, and cytochrome C proteins, decreased the activities of caspase-3 and caspase-9, and increased Bcl-2 protein. The results suggested that compound 1 exhibited antioxidant activities and protective effects in keratinocytes against oxidative stress induced by H₂O₂.

Effects of Cudrania tricuspidata on anti-senescence in high glucose-treated endothelial cells via the Akt/p53/p21 pathway

The roles of Cudrania tricuspidata (CT) in the prevention of senescence and the underlying mechanisms have not been elucidated. In a high glucose (HG)-induced senescent endothelial cell (EC) culture, CT (20 µg/ml) reduced the number of senescence-associated β-galactosidase-positive cells by 8.3% compared with the control group and increased the expression of p-Sirt1 by more than twofold compared with the control group. Moreover, 20 μg/ml CT treatment doubled the activity of p-Akt, which was inhibited by HG, compared with the control group. In addition, CT treatment decreased the expression of p53, p21, and Rb, which was increased by HG. Overall, CT delays HG-induced senescence via the Akt/p53/p21 pathway, suggesting its potential as a functional agent for the protection of ECs.

Sirt1-Mediated Anti-Aging Effects of Houttuynia cordata Extract in a High Glucose-Induced Endothelial Cell-Aging Model

Houttuynia cordata (HC) is a herb widely used in traditional Asian medicine as an ingredient in complex prescriptions. HC is known for its anti-leukemic, anti-oxidative, and anti-inflammatory properties. However, its anti-vascular endothelial aging efficacy and the underlying mechanisms are not fully understood. In this study, we investigated the anti-aging effects of HC in a high glucose (HG)-induced endothelial cell (EC)-aging model. Treatment with HC (40 μg/mL) increased migration of ECs, and increased phosphorylation of extracellular signal-regulated kinases and p38 in a dose-dependent manner. Following HG treatment (30 mM), HC significantly decreased the number of senescence-associated β-galactosidase positive cells, which are the biomarkers for aging, in a dose-dependent manner. Based on levels of phosphorylation, HC (40 μg/mL) was shown to increase expression of sirtuin1 (Sirt1) and endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) by 74.4% and 328.2%, respectively. Furthermore, treatment of HG-induced senescent ECs with HC (40 μg/mL) significantly increased nitric oxide production (P<0.05). These results demonstrate that HC both increases EC migration and regulates the Sirt1/eNOS pathway, suggesting HC has potential for protecting ECs against HG-induced aging.

Unravelling Cellular Mechanisms of Stem Cell Senescence: An Aid from Natural Bioactive Molecules

Cellular senescence plays a role in the onset of age-related pathologies and in the loss of tissue homeostasis. Natural compounds of food or plants exert an important antioxidant activity, counteracting the formation of harmful free radicals. In the presence of an intense stressing event, cells activate specific responses to counteract senescence or cell death. In the present paper, we aimed at evaluating the levels of expression of specific markers of senescence, in order to demonstrate that extracts from Myrtus Communis L. can prevent premature senescence in ADSCs exposed to oxidative stress. Cells were cultured in the presence of Myrtus extracts for 12-24 and 48 h and then incubated with H₂O₂ to induce senescence. We then evaluated the expression of senescence-related markers p16, p19, p21, p53, TERT, c-Myc, and the senescence-associated β-Galactoidase activity. Our results showed that pre-treatment with Myrtus extracts protects cells from premature senescence, by regulating the cell cycle, and inducing the expression of TERT and c-Myc. These findings suggest a potential application of these natural compounds in the prevention and treatment of various diseases, counteracting premature senescence and preserving tissue functions.

SIRT1-Mediated Protective Effect of Aralia elata (Miq.) Seem against High-Glucose-Induced Senescence in Human Umbilical Vein Endothelial Cells

Aralia elata (Miq.) Seem (AS) is widely been for treating many diseases, enhancing energy, and boosting immunity; however, its protective effects against high-glucose (HG)-triggered endothelial dysfunction and the potential underlying mechanisms have not been investigated. In this study, we determined the effect of AS on senescence in human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) and elucidated the mechanisms underlying its anti-aging effects. The senescence model of endothelial cells (ECs) was established by culturing HUVECs in media containing HG (30 mM). We found that the proportion of senescent (senescence-associated β-galactosidase+) cells in the HG group was significantly higher than that in the control group; however, this increase was suppressed by AS treatment. Moreover, cell cycle analysis revealed that AS (20 μg/mL) significantly recovered HG-induced cell cycle arrest in ECs, and Western blot revealed that AS prevented HG-induced decreases in silent information regulator 1 (SIRT1) level and endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) phosphorylation. These results show that AS delayed HG-induced senescence in ECs by modulation of the SIRT1/5′ AMP-activated protein kinase and AKT/eNOS pathways.

NMR-Based Metabolomics Profiling for Radical Scavenging and Anti-Aging Properties of Selected Herbs

Herbs that are usually recognized as medicinal plants are well known for their therapeutic effects and are traditionally used to treat numerous diseases, including aging. This study aimed to evaluate the metabolite variations among six selected herbs namely Curcurma longa, Oenanthe javanica, Vitex negundo, Pluchea indica, Cosmos caudatus and Persicaria minus using proton nuclear magnetic resonance (¹H-NMR) coupled with multivariate data analysis (MVDA). The free radical scavenging activity of the extract was measured by 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), 2,2-azinobis(3-ethyl-benzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) (ABTS) and oxygen radical absorbance capacity (ORAC) assay. The anti-aging property was characterized by anti-elastase and anti-collagenase inhibitory activities. The results revealed that P. minus showed the highest radical scavenging activities and anti-aging properties. The partial least squares (PLS) biplot indicated the presence of potent metabolites in P. minus such as quercetin, quercetin-3-O-rhamnoside (quercitrin), myricetin derivatives, catechin, isorhamnetin, astragalin and apigenin. It can be concluded that P. minus can be considered as a potential source for an anti-aging ingredient and also a good free radical eradicator. Therefore, P. minus could be used in future development in anti-aging researches and medicinal ingredient preparations.

Phytomelatonin Regulates Keratinocytes Homeostasis Counteracting Aging Process

Phytomelatonin (PM) gained the greatest interest for its application in agriculture and its use to improve human health conditions. PM based supplement has been shown to possess antioxidant capabilities because it functions as a free radical scavenger. Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS), induced by both intrinsic (peroxide production) and extrinsic (UV-radiation) factors are biochemical mediators crucial in skin aging. Skin aging is also regulated by specific microRNAs (miRs). Herein we have shown the effect of PM free radical scavengers on the human keratinocyte cell line HaCat and on ROS formation induced by both extrinsic and intrinsic factors as well as their capability to positively modulate a member of the hsa-miR-29 family linked to aging. Our result highlights the regulatory role of PM for the keratinocytes homeostasis.

Poly herbal formulation with anti-elastase and anti-oxidant properties for skin anti-aging

Background

Skin forms an important part of human innate immune system. Wrinkles, thinning and roughening of skin are some of the symptoms that affect the skin as it ages. Reactive oxygen species induced oxidative stress plays a major role in skin aging by modulating the elastase enzyme level in the skin. Extrinsic factors that affect skin aging such as UV radiation can also cause malignant melanoma. Here we selected four medicinal plant materials, namely, leaves of Nyctanthes arbor-tristis, unripe and ripe Aegle marmelos fruit pulp and the terminal meristem of Musa paradisiaca flower and investigated their anti-aging properties and cytotoxicity in vitro individually as well as in a poly herbal formulation containing the four plant extracts in different ratios.

Methods

The phytochemical contents of the plant extracts were investigated for radical scavenging activity and total reducing power. Based upon its anti-oxidant properties, a poly herbal formulation containing leaves of Nyctanthes arbor-tristis, unripe and ripe fruit pulp of Aegle marmelos, and the terminal meristem of Musa paradisiaca flower in the ratio 6:2:1:1 (Poly Herbal Formulation 1) and 1:1:1:1 (Poly Herbal Formulation 2), respectively were formulated.

Result

It has been observed that the Poly Herbal Formulation 1 was more potent than Poly Herbal Formulation 2 due to better anti-oxidant and anti-elastase activities in NIH3T3 fibroblast cells. In addition Poly Herbal formulation 1 also had better anti-cancer activity in human malignant melanoma cells.

Conclusion

Based on these results these beneficial plant extracts were identified for its potential application as an anti-aging agent in skin creams as well as an anti-proliferation compound against cancer cells.

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (10.1186/s12906-018-2097-9) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

Anti-Adipogenic Effects of Ethanol Extracts Prepared from Selected Medicinal Herbs in 3T3-L1 Cells

Obesity is a major risk factor for various metabolic diseases such as cardiovascular disease, hypertension, and type 2 diabetes mellitus. In this study, we prepared ethanol extracts from Agastache rugosa (ARE), Chrysanthemum zawadskii (CZE), Mentha arvensis (MAE), Perilla frutescens (PFE), Leonurus sibiricus (LSE), Gardenia jasminoides (GJE), and Lycopus coreanus (LCE). The anti-oxidant and anti-adipogenic effects were evaluated. The IC₅₀ values for ascorbic acid and LCE against 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl radicals were 246.2 μg/mL and 166.2 μg/mL, respectively, followed by ARE (186.6 μg/mL), CZE (198.6 μg/mL), MAE (337.1 μg/mL), PFE (415.3 μg/mL), LSE (548.2 μg/mL), and GJE (626.3 μg/mL). In non-toxic concentration ranges, CZE had a strong inhibitory effect against 3T3-L1 adipogenes (84.5%) than those of the other extracts. Furthermore, the anti-adipogenic effect of CZE is largely limited in the early stage of adipogenesis, and we revealed that the inhibitory role of CZE in adipogenesis is required for the activation of Wnt signaling. Our results provide scientific evidence that the anti-adipogenic effect of CZE can be applied as an ingredient for the development of functional foods and nutri-cosmetics for obesity prevention.