A Portulaca oleracea L. extract promotes insulin secretion via a K+ATP channel dependent pathway in INS-1 pancreatic β-cells

Ferulic Acid Derivatives Ameliorate Intestine Barrier Destruction by Alleviating Inflammatory Responses in Dextran Sulfate Sodium-Induced Inflammatory Bowel Disease

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), a chronic disorder affecting the colon and rectum, involves the overproduction of pro-inflammatory cytokines causing damage to tight junctions (TJ) in the intestinal epithelial cells and chronic inflammation. The current mainstay of treatment, sulfasalazine, often causes adverse effects, thereby necessitating the exploration of alternative herbal medicines with fewer side effects. Portulaca oleracea L. (P. oleracea), a traditional medicinal herb, contains feruloyl amide compounds. We synthesized new compounds by conjugating ferulic acid (FA) with (±)-octopamine. Our study focused on novel FA derivatives that demonstrate protective effects against the intestinal epithelial barrier and inflammatory responses. In lipopolysaccharide-induced cells, C1 and C1a inhibited the production of inflammatory mediators. In Caco-2 cells, these compounds maintained the TJ protein expression, thereby demonstrating their protective effects on the epithelial barrier. In a mouse model of dextran sulfate sodium-induced IBD, a treatment with these compounds ameliorated features including a body weight reduction, colon shortening, an increased disease activity index, and histopathological changes. Furthermore, C1a demonstrated greater efficacy than C1 at the same concentration. These findings suggest that the novel FA derivative (C1a) effectively alleviates clinical signs and inflammatory mediators in IBD, making these compounds potential candidates as natural medicines for the treatment of IBD.

Metabolomics analysis delineates the therapeutic effects of Yinlan Tiaozhi capsule on triton WR-1339 -induced hyperlipidemia in mice

Hyperlipidemia is a disorder of lipid metabolism resulting from abnormal blood lipid metabolism and is one of the most frequent metabolic diseases that endanger people's health. Yinlan Tiaozhi capsule (YL) is a formulated TCM widely used to treat hyperlipidemia. The purpose of this study was to discover biomarkers utilizing untargeted metabolomics techniques, as well as to analyze the mechanisms underlying the changes in metabolic pathways linked to lipid-lowering, anti-inflammation, and regulation of angiogenesis in hyperlipidemia mice. To assess the efficacy of YL, serum total cholesterol (TC), triglycerides (TG), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-c), and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-c) levels were measured. Biochemical examinations showed that YL significantly reduced the levels of TC, TG, LDL-c, Il6, Tnf-α, and Vegfa in hyperlipidemia mice (p < 0.01). YL also significantly increased the levels of HDL-c and Alb (p < 0.01). Twenty-seven potential serum biomarkers associated with hyperlipidemia were determined. These differential metabolites were related to the reduction of serum lipid levels in hyperlipidemia mice, probably through metabolic pathways such as linoleic acid metabolism, glycerophospholipid metabolism, phenylalanine metabolism, phenylalanine, tyrosine and tryptophan biosynthesis, and D-glutamine and D-glutamate metabolism. Further correlation analysis showed that the serum lipid reduction through YL was related to the metabolites (amino acid metabolites, phospholipids metabolites, and fatty acids metabolites). The present study reveals that YL has a profound effect on alleviating triton WR-1339-induced hyperlipidemia, inflammation, and angiogenesis and that the positive effects of YL were primarily associated with the correction of metabolic abnormalities and the maintenance of metabolite dynamic balance.

Modulatory Effect of Medicinal Plants and Their Active Constituents on ATP-Sensitive Potassium Channels (KATP) in Diabetes

Hyperglycemia, which is a chronic metabolic condition caused by either a defect in insulin secretion or insulin resistance, is a hallmark of diabetes mellitus (DM). Sustained hyperglycemia leads to the onset and development of many health complications. Despite the number of available antidiabetic medications on the market, there is still a need for novel treatment agents with increased efficacy and fewer adverse effects. Many medicinal plants offer a rich supply of bioactive compounds that have remarkable pharmacological effects with less toxicity and side effects. According to published evidence, natural antidiabetic substances influence pancreatic β-cell development and proliferation, inhibit pancreatic β-cell death, and directly increase insulin output. Pancreatic ATP-sensitive potassium channels play an essential role in coupling glucose metabolism to the secretion of insulin. Although much of the literature is available on the antidiabetic effects of medicinal plants, very limited studies discuss their direct action on pancreatic KATP. The aim of this review is to focus on the modulatory effects of antidiabetic medicinal plants and their active constituents on pancreatic KATP. The KATP channel should be regarded as a key therapeutic milestone in the treatment of diabetes. Therefore, continuous research into the interaction of medicinal plants with the KATP channel is crucial.

Ameliorative effects of Portulaca oleracea L. (purslane) on the metabolic syndrome: A review

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

The metabolic syndrome, which comprises hyperglycemia, dyslipidemia, abdominal obesity, and hypertension, is a worldwide problem. This disorder is a significant risk factor for insulin resistance, diabetes mellitus, cardiovascular disease incidence, and mortality. The value of herbs and natural products in the treatment of human ailments has been documented in several inquiries. An annual herbaceous plant called Portulaca oleracea L. (purslane) is used both as a traditional medicine and an edible plant to treat various ailments including gastrointestinal diseases and liver inflammation. Purslane contains a variety of secondary metabolites such as organic acids, flavonoids, terpenoids, and alkaloids.

AIM OF THE STUDY

In the current work, our team aims to shed light on the potential efficacy of purslane and its main components in treating metabolic syndrome and its complications.

STUDY DESIGN

Scopus, Google Scholar, and PubMed databases have been used to gather the most relevant in vitro, in vivo studies, and clinical trials from the time of inception up to February 2022.

RESULTS

The effects of purslane on metabolism are among its most significant pharmacological properties. In patients with metabolic syndrome, purslane could significantly lower blood glucose and balance lipid profiles. This indicates that purslane might have a potential role in the management of metabolic syndrome through different underlying mechanisms including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-hyperlipidemic, anti-obesity, and antidiabetic.

CONCLUSION

According to previous investigations, purslane can control metabolic syndrome and its complications. However, further preclinical and clinical studies are required to approve the advantageous effects of purslane on metabolic syndrome.

Antidiabetic Actions of Ethanol Extract of Camellia sinensis Leaf Ameliorates Insulin Secretion, Inhibits the DPP-IV Enzyme, Improves Glucose Tolerance, and Increases Active GLP-1 (7-36) Levels in High-Fat-Diet-Fed Rats

Camellia sinensis (green tea) is used in traditional medicine to treat a wide range of ailments. In the present study, the insulin-releasing and glucose-lowering effects of the ethanol extract of Camellia sinensis (EECS), along with molecular mechanism/s of action, were investigated in vitro and in vivo. The insulin secretion was measured using clonal pancreatic BRIN BD11 β cells, and mouse islets. In vitro models examined the additional glucose-lowering properties of EECS, and 3T3L1 adipocytes were used to assess glucose uptake and insulin action. Non-toxic doses of EECS increased insulin secretion in a concentration-dependent manner, and this regulatory effect was similar to that of glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1). The insulin release was further enhanced when combined with isobutylmethylxanthine (IBMX), tolbutamide or 30 mM KCl, but was decreased in the presence of verapamil, diazoxide and Ca²⁺ chelation. EECS also depolarized the β-cell membrane and elevated intracellular Ca²⁺, suggesting the involvement of a K_ATP-dependent pathway. Furthermore, EECS increased glucose uptake and insulin action in 3T3-L1 cells and inhibited dipeptidyl peptidase IV (DPP-IV) enzyme activity, starch digestion and protein glycation in vitro. Oral administration of EECS improved glucose tolerance and plasma insulin as well as inhibited plasma DPP-IV and increased active GLP-1 (7-36) levels in high-fat-diet-fed rats. Flavonoids and other phytochemicals present in EECS could be responsible for these effects. Further research on the mechanism of action of EECS compounds could lead to the development of cost-effective treatments for type 2 diabetes.

Insulin Secretory Actions of Ethanol Extract of Eucalyptus citriodora Leaf, including Plasma DPP-IV and GLP-1 Levels in High-Fat-Fed Rats, as Well as Characterization of Biologically Effective Phytoconstituents

Due to the numerous adverse effects of synthetic drugs, researchers are currently studying traditional medicinal plants to find alternatives for diabetes treatment. Eucalyptus citriodora is known to be used as a remedy for various illnesses, including diabetes. This study aimed to explore the effects of ethanol extract of Eucalyptus citriodora (EEEC) on in vitro and in vivo systems, including the mechanism/s of action. The methodology used involved the measurement of insulin secretion from clonal pancreatic β-cells, BRIN BD11, and mouse islets. Other in vitro systems further examined EEEC’s glucose-lowering properties. Obese rats fed a high-fat-fed diet (HFF) were selected for in vivo evaluation, and phytoconstituents were detected via RP-HPLC followed by LC-MS. EEEC induced insulin secretion in a concentration-dependent manner with modulatory effects, similar to 1 µM glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1), which were partly declined in the presence of Ca^2+-channel blocker (Verapamil), K_ATP-channel opener (Diazoxide), and Ca²⁺ chelation. The insulin secretory effects of EEEC were augmented by isobutyl methylxanthine (IBMX), which persisted in the context of tolbutamide or a depolarizing concentration of KCl. EEEC enhanced insulin action in 3T3-L1 cells and reduced glucose absorption, and protein glycation in vitro. In HFF rats, it improved glucose tolerance and plasma insulin, attenuated plasma DPP-IV, and induced active GLP-1 (7-36) levels in circulation. Rhodomyrtosone B, Quercetin-3-O-β-D-glucopyranoside, rhodomyrtosone E, and quercitroside were identified as possible phytoconstituents that may be responsible for EEEC effects. Thus, these findings revealed that E. citriodora could be used as an adjunct nutritional supplement to manage type 2 diabetes.

Fermented Rosa Roxburghii Tratt Juice Alleviates High-Fat Diet-Induced Hyperlipidemia in Rats by Modulating Gut Microbiota and Metabolites

Hyperlipidemia endangers human health and has become a significant public health problem. This study aimed to investigate the mechanism of the hypolipidemic effects of Fermented Rosa roxburghii Tratt juice (FRRT) on hyperlipidemic rats and a new hypolipidemic intervention strategy was disclosed. The study revealed 12 weeks FRRT treatment significantly decreased the body weight, total cholesterol (TC), triacylglycerol (TG), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-c), while high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-c) increased. We integrated the 16S rDNA sequencing and metabolomic profiling to evaluate the changes in the gut microbiota and metabolites. Significant changes in microbial composition accompanied marked changes in 56 feces metabolites. The results showed that FRRT could decrease the ratio of Firmicutes to Bacteroidetes, while increase the abundance of some bacterial genera (Prevotella, Paraprevotellaceae_Prevotella, Ruminococcus, Oscillospira). Metabolomics analysis displayed that the metabolisms of bile acid, amino acid and lipid were significantly affected by FRRT. Correlation analysis suggest that the reductions in serum lipids by FRRT are associated with the gut microbial community and their associated metabolites (amino acid metabolites, bile acid metabolites, and lipid metabolites). This study confirmed FRRT could be used as a new dietary and therapeutic strategy to dyslipidemia by improving the gut microbiota dysbiosis, metabolomic disorders and regulating the dyslipidemia. Our study also extended the understanding of the relationship between gut microbiota, metabolites, and lipid-lowering functions.

A review on bioactive phytochemicals and ethnopharmacological potential of purslane (Portulaca oleracea L.)

The Portulaca oleracea L. commonly known as purslane is distributed all over the world and easily grows in diverse soil and climatic conditions. It has been traditionally used as a nutritious and ethnomedicinal food across the globe. Various studies have shown that the plant is a rich source of various important phytochemicals such as flavonoids, alkaloids, terpenoids, proteins, carbohydrates, and vitamins such as A, C, E, and B, carotenoids and minerals such as phosphorus, calcium, magnesium and zinc. It is particularly very important because of the presence of a very high concentration of omega-3- fatty acids especially α-linolenic acid, gamma-linolenic acid and linoleic acid, which are not generally synthesized in terrestrial plants. Various parts of purslane are known for ethnomedicinal and pharmacological uses because of its anti-inflammatory, antidiabetic, skeletal muscle relaxant, antitumor, hepatoprotective, anticancer, antioxidant, anti-insomnia, analgesic, gastroprotective, neuroprotective, wound healing and antiseptic activities. Due to multiple benefits of purslane, it has become an important wonder crop and various scientists across the globe have shown much interest in it as a healthy food for the future. In this review, we provide an update on the phytochemical and nutritional composition of purslane, its usage as nutritional and an ethnomedicinal plant across the world. We further provide a detailed account on ethnopharmacological studies that have proved the ethnomedicinal properties of purslane.

Effects of Polygonatum sibiricum saponin on hyperglycemia, gut microbiota composition and metabolic profiles in type 2 diabetes mice

Diabetes is a global disease that endangers human health. As reported, saponins are effective bioactive compounds for treating type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and have nontoxic side effects. This study aimed to examine the hypoglycemic effects of Polygonatum sibiricum saponin (PSS) on T2DM mice. We found that PSS could significantly decrease the levels of insulin secretion and fasting blood glucose (FBG) in T2DM mice. And the level of triacylglycerol (TG), total cholesterol (TC) and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) in the blood was decreased. In contrast, the content of high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) was increased. 16S rDNA sequencing was used to evaluate the changes in the gut microbiota of T2DM mice, and metabolites were analyzed by metabolomic profiling. The results showed that PSS could decrease the abundance of Firmicutes in T2DM mice, increase the abundance of Bacteroidetes. It also increased the abundance of some bacterial genera (Lactobacillus, Lachnospiraceae_NK4A136_group and Intestinimonas). The phenotypes of the gut microbiome also changed accordingly. Metabolomics analysis showed that carbohydrate metabolism and amino acid metabolisms, such as L-alanine and L-glutamic acid, were greatly affected by PSS. In addition, the levels of inositol and chlorogenic acid in metabolites also increased significantly under PSS intervention. In general, PSS could exert its hypoglycemic effect, regulate the gut microbiota and affect the metabolism of T2DM mice.

Improvement of a Traditional Orphan Food Crop, Portulaca oleracea L. (Purslane) Using Genomics for Sustainable Food Security and Climate-Resilient Agriculture

Purslane (Portulaca oleracea L.) is a popular orphan crop used for its nutritional properties in various parts of the world. It is considered one of the richest terrestrial sources of omega-3 and omega-6-fatty acids (ω-3 and 6-FAs) suggesting its importance for human health. This ethnomedicinal plant is also an important part of traditional healing systems among the indigenous people. Many studies have indicated its tolerance against multiple stresses and found that it easily grows in a range of environmental gradients. It has also been considered one of the important biosaline crops for the future. Despite its huge nutritional, economic, and medicinal importance, it remains neglected to date. Most of the studies on purslane were focused on its ethnomedicinal, phytochemical, pharmacological, and stress-tolerance properties. Only a few studies have attempted genetic dissection of the traits governing these traits. Purslane being an important traditional food crop across the globe can be valorized for a sustainable food security in the future. Therefore, this review is an attempt to highlight the distribution, domestication, and cultivation of purslane and its importance as an important stress-tolerant food and a biosaline crop. Furthermore, identification of genes and their functions governing important traits and its potential for improvement using genomics tools for smart and biosaline agriculture has been discussed.

Effect of Portulaca Oleracea (purslane) extract on liver enzymes, lipid profile, and glycemic status in nonalcoholic fatty liver disease: A randomized, double-blind clinical trial

Purslane (Portulaca oleracea L.) is the richest green leafy vegetable source of omega-3, especially alpha linolenic acid (ALA). Experimental studies have shown beneficial effects of purslane extract on liver enzymes. The aim of the present study was to examine the effect of purslane hydroalcohoic extract in patients with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). In a randomized double-blinded clinical trial, 74 patients were randomly assigned to receive either 300 mg purslane extract or placebo capsules for 12 weeks. Compared with baseline, alanine aminotransferase (ALT) (-9 [-17, 0.50] mg/dl; p = .007), aspartate aminotransferase (AST) (-4 [-10, -0.50] mg/dl; p = .001), gamma glutamyltransferase (GGT) (-6.21 ± 9.85 mg/dL; p < .001), fasting blood glucose (FBG) (-8 [-11, -1.50] mg/dl; p < .001) insulin resistance (-0.95 ± 2.23; p = .020), triglyceride (-20 [-67.50, 3.50] mg/dl; p = .010), and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) (-5 [-12, -1] mg/dl; p < .001) decreased significantly in the purslane group. At the end of study, no significant changes were observed in liver steatosis grade, insulin, liver enzymes, total bilirubin, lipid profile, and blood pressure between the two groups. The findings of our study show that purslane extract at the dose of 300 mg/day for 12 weeks has no significant effects on liver enzymes, lipid profile, and glycemic indices in patients with NAFLD.

Comparison Among Garlic, Berberine, Resveratrol,Hibiscus sabdariffa, GenusZizyphus, Hesperidin, Red Beetroot,Catha edulis,Portulaca oleracea, and Mulberry Leaves in the Treatment of Hypertension and Type 2 DM: A Comprehensive Review

Diabetes mellitus (DM) and hypertension are 2 of the most prevalent diseases with poor impact on health status worldwide. In most cases, they coexist with other metabolic disorders as well as cardiac, micro- and macrovascular complications. Many plants are known for their hypotensive, cardioprotective, and/or antidiabetic activities. Their active ingredients either identified and isolated or still utilized as herbal preparations of certain plant parts. The use of medicinal plants comprises the main basis for most of the traditional medicine (TM) systems and procedures. As conventional medicines seem insufficient to control such progressive diseases, herbal agents from TM could be used as adjuvant with good impact on disease control and progression as well as other concomitant health conditions. The aim of this study is to compare the efficacy of 10 different herbal medicines of botanical origin or herbal preparations in the management of hypertension and its cardiovascular complications and type 2 DM along with various coexisting health disorders. These herbal medicines are garlic, berberine, resveratrol, Hibiscus sabdariffa, Zizyphus ( oxyphylla, mucronate, jujube, rugosa), hesperidin, red beetroot, Catha edulis, mulberry leaves, and Portulaca oleracea.