Review of anticancer mechanisms of isoquercitin

LC-ESI-MS/MS-based molecular networking, antioxidant, anti-glioma activity and molecular docking studies of Clematis graveolens

Clematis graveolens Lindl., an indigenous climbing plant found in the Himalayan areas, is used by local communities for the treatment of neck tumors. The objective of this work is to examine the comprehensive metabolomic profile, antioxidant capability, in vitro and in silico anti-glioma effects on U-87 human glioma cell lines of the crude extract and fractions from C. graveolens. Liquid chromatography coupled with mass spectroscopy (LC-MS/MS) was used to establish detailed metabolite profiling of C. graveolens. The assessment of cell cytotoxicity was conducted using MTT cell viability assay on U-87 and BHK-21. Through molecular docking studies, the mode of inhibition and binding interaction between identified compounds and target proteins were also determined to evaluate the in vitro results. The use of LC-MS/MS-based global natural products social (GNPS) molecular networking analysis resulted in the identification of 27 compounds. The crude extract, ethyl acetate fraction, and chloroform fraction exhibited significant inhibitory activity against the U-87 cell lines, with IC50 values of 112.0, 138.1, and 142.7 µg/mL, respectively. The ethyl acetate fraction exhibited significant inhibitory concentration for 2,2'-azino-bis (3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) (ABTS) activity, 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) activity and the metal chelation activity with IC50 value of 39.50 µg/mL, 32.27 µg/mL, and 53.46 µg/mL, respectively. The crude extract showed maximum total phenolic, and total flavonoid concentration measuring 338.7 µg GAE/mg, and 177.04 µg QE/mg, respectively. The findings of this study indicate that C. graveolens consists of a diverse range of active phytoconstituents that possess antioxidant and anti-glioma properties.

Genotoxic and antiproliferative properties of Endopleura uchi bark aqueous extract

The bark extract from Endopleura uchi has been widely used in traditional medicine to treat gynecological-related disorders, diabetes, and dyslipidemias albeit without scientific proof. In addition, E. uchi bark extract safety, especially regarding mutagenic activities, is not known. The aim of this study was to determine the chemical composition, antitumor, and toxicological parameters attributed to an E. uchi bark aqueous extract. The phytochemical constitution was assessed by colorimetric and chromatographic analyzes. The antiproliferative effect was determined using sulforhodamine B (SRB) assay using 4 cancer cell lines. Cytotoxic and genotoxic activities were assessed utilizing MTT and comet assays, respectively, while mutagenicity was determined through micronucleus and Salmonella/microsome assays. The chromatographic analysis detected predominantly the presence of gallic acid and isoquercitrin. The antiproliferative effect was more pronounced in human colon adenocarcinoma (HT-29) and human breast cancer (MCF-7) cell lines. In the MTT assay, the extract presented an IC50 = 39.1 µg/ml and exhibited genotoxic (comet assay) and mutagenic (micronucleus test) activities at 20 and 40 µg/ml in mouse fibroblast cell line (L929) and mutagenicity in the TA102 and TA97a strains in the absence of S9 mix. Data demonstrated that E. uchi bark possesses bioactive compounds which exert cytotoxic and genotoxic effects that might be associated with its antitumor potential. Therefore, E. uchi bark aqueous extract consumption needs to be approached with caution in therapeutic applications.

Ethnobotanical Uses and Pharmacological Activities of Moroccan Ephedra Species

Ephedra species are among the most popular herbs used in traditional medicine for a long time. The ancient Chinese medical book "Treatise on Febrile Diseases" refers to the classic traditional Chinese medicine prescription Ge Gen decoction, which consists of seven herbs, including an Ephedra species. Ephedra species are utilized all over the world to treat symptoms of the common cold and coughs, and to combat major human diseases, such as asthma, cancers, diabetes, cardiovascular and digestive disorders, and microbial infections. This study aimed at identifying specific Ephedra species used traditionally in Morocco for therapeutic purposes. The plant parts, their preparation process, and the treated pathologies were identified and analyzed. The results revealed five ethnobotanically important species of Ephedra: Ephedra alata Decne, Ephedra altissima Desf., Ephedra distachya L., Ephedra fragilis Desf., and Ephedra nebrodensis Tineo. These species are used traditionally in Morocco for treating people with diabetes, cancer, rheumatism, cold and asthma, hypertension, influenza virus infection, and respiratory ailments. In addition, they are occasionally used as calefacient agents, to regulate weight, or for capillary care. Few studies have underlined the antibacterial and antioxidant activities of some of these Moroccan Ephedra species, but little information is available regarding the natural products at the origin of the bioactivities. Further phytochemical investigations and clinical data are encouraged to better support the use of these plants.

Phytochemical analysis and biological evaluation of Ferulago setifolia K. Koch

BACKGROUND

Ferulago setifolia K. Koch (Apiaceae) has been the subject of this study, aiming to comprehensively determine its phenolic fingerprint and evaluate its various biological activities. The liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry analysis of the 70% methanol extract of F. setifolia (FS) revealed the presence of 23 phytochemicals, among which chlorogenic acid, quinic acid, kaempferol-3-O-glucoside, and quercetin-3-O-glucoside were identified as the major phenolics in the extract.

RESULTS

The biological screening included examinations of antioxidant, antibacterial, antiproliferative, and cytotoxic activities. The FS extract displayed moderate 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl radical scavenging and ferric-reducing capacity, indicating moderate antioxidant activity. Furthermore, FS exhibited significant antiproliferative effects on cancer cells while showing low cytotoxicity on normal cells. The antibacterial activity findings revealed that FS demonstrated potent activity against Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Bacillus cereus, Staphylococcus aureus, and Escherichia coli.

CONCLUSION

The findings of this study suggest that the methanolic extract of FS holds promise as a potential source of biologically active compounds. It can be utilized for the development of pharmaceutical formulations, thanks to its significant antiproliferative and antibacterial activities. Additionally, FS can serve as a valuable source of chlorogenic acid for industrial applications. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry.

Enzymatic Hydrolysis of Rutin: Evaluation of Kinetic Parameters and Anti-Proliferative, Mutagenic and Anti-Mutagenic Effects

The bioavailability of glucoside flavonoids is influenced by the nature of the sugar, glucosides being absorbed faster than rhamnoglucosides, for example. One strategy to enhance the bioavailability is enzymatic hydrolysis. In this study, some kinetic parameters of hesperidinase-mediated hydrolysis of rutin were evaluated using an UHPLC/QTOF-MS^E analysis of the products of a bioconversion reaction. The resulting hydrolyzed rutins (after 4, 8 and 12 h of reaction) were submitted to anti-proliferative and Cytokinesis-Block Micronucleus (CBMN) assays in CHO-K1 cells. In the hesperidinase-mediated hydrolysis, the final concentration of quercetin-3-O-glucoside (Q3G) was directly proportional to the rutin concentration and inversely proportional to the reaction time. At an anti-proliferative concentration (2.5 μg/mL), hydrolyzed rutin derivatives did not show a mutagenic effect, except for the sample with a higher content of Q3G (after 4 h of the enzymatic hydrolysis of rutin). Moreover, the higher Q3G content in hydrolyzed rutin protected the CHO-K1 cells 92% of the time against methyl methanesulfonate-induced mutagenic damage. These results suggested that the anti-mutagenic effect of hydrolyzed rutin might be related to antioxidant and cell death induction. Presenting a good lipophilicity/hydrophilicity ratio, together with antioxidant and anti-mutagenic activities, the hesperidinase-mediated hydrolyzed rutin seemed to be a promisor raw material for the development of food supplements.

Chemopreventive effects and anti-tumorigenic mechanisms of Actinidia arguta, known as sarunashi in Japan toward 4-(methylnitrosamino)-1-(3-pyridyl)-1-butanone (NNK)- induced lung tumorigenesis in a/J mouse

BACKGROUND

Previously, we reported the inhibitory effect of Actinidia arguta juice, known as sarunashi juice (sar-j) in Japan, on mutagenesis, inflammation, and mouse skin tumorigenesis. The components of A. arguta responsible for the anti-mutagenic effects were identified to be water-soluble, heat-labile phenolic compounds. We proposed isoquercetin (isoQ) as a candidate anticarcinogenic component. In this study, we sought to investigate the chemopreventive effects of A. arguta juice and isoQ on 4-(methylnitrosamino)-1-(3-pyridyl)-1-butanone (NNK)-induced lung tumorigenesis in A/J mice, and identify the possible mechanisms underlying the anti-tumorigenic effects of A. arguta.

RESULTS

The number of tumor nodules per mouse lung in the group injected with NNK and administered A. arguta juice orally was significantly lower than that in the group injected with NNK only. Oral administration of isoQ also reduced the number of nodules in the mouse lungs. As expected, the mutagenicity of NNK and 1-methyl-3-nitro-1-nitrosoguanidine (MNNG) detected using S. typhimurium TA1535 decreased in the presence of sar-j. However, NNK and MNNG mutagenicity detected using S. typhimurium YG7108, a strain lacking the O⁶-methylguanine DNA methyltransferases (ogt_ST and ada_ST) did not decrease in the presence of sar-j suggesting that sar-j may mediate its antimutagenic effect by enhancing the DNA damage repair by ogt_ST and ada_ST. Phosphorylation of Akt, with or without epidermal growth factor stimulation, in A549 cells was significantly decreased following sar-j and isoQ treatment, indicating that components in sar-j including isoQ suppressed the PI3K/AKT signaling pathways.

CONCLUSIONS

Sar-j and isoQ reduced NNK-induced lung tumorigenesis. Sar-j targets both the initiation and growth/progression steps during carcinogenesis, specifically via anti-mutagenesis, stimulation of alkyl DNA adduct repair, and suppression of Akt-mediated growth signaling. IsoQ might contribute in part to the biological effects of sar-j via suppression of Akt phosphorylation, but it may not be the main active ingredient.

Phytochemical Profile and Selective Cytotoxic Activity of a Solanum bulbocastanum Dun. Methanolic Extract on Breast Cancer Cells

Solanum bulbocastanum is a wild potato species, intensively used in potato breeding programs due to its resistance to environmental factors. Thus, its biochemical profile and putative human health-related traits might be transferred into potato cultivars aimed for consumption. This study aims to assess the phytochemical profile and the selective cytotoxicity of an S. bulbocastanum extract against breast cancer cells. Dry leaves were subjected to ultrasonication-assisted extraction in methanol [70%]. The phenolic and glycoalkaloid profiles were determined by HPLC-PDA/-ESI+-MS. The volatile profile was investigated by nontargeted ITEX/GC-MS. The extract was tested against three breast cancer cell lines (MCF7, MDA-MB-231, HS578T) and a healthy cell line (HUVEC) by the MTT assay, to assess its selective cytotoxicity. The phenolic profile of the extract revealed high levels of phenolic acids (5959.615 µg/mL extract), and the presence of flavanols (818.919 µg/mL extract). The diversity of the volatile compounds was rather low (nine compounds), whereas no glycoalkaloids were identified, only two alkaloid precursors (813.524 µg/mL extract). The extract proved to be cytotoxic towards all breast cancer cell lines (IC₅₀ values between 139.1 and 356,1 µg/mL), with selectivity coefficients between 1.96 and 4.96 when compared with its toxicity on HUVECs. Based on these results we conclude that the exerted cytotoxic activity of the extract is due to its high polyphenolic content, whereas the lack of Solanaceae-specific glycoalkaloids might be responsible for its high selectivity against breast cancer cells in comparison with other extract obtained from wild Solanum species. However, further research is needed in order to assess the cytotoxicity of the individual compounds found in the extract, as well as the anti-tumor potential of the S. bulbocastanum tubers.

Beyond Traditional Use of Alchemilla vulgaris: Genoprotective and Antitumor Activity In Vitro

Alchemilla vulgaris L. (lady's mantle) was used for centuries in Europe and Balkan countries for treatments of numerous conditions and diseases of the reproductive system, yet some of the biological activities of lady's mantle have been poorly studied and neglected. The present study aimed to estimate the potential of A. vulgaris ethanolic extract from Southeast Serbia to prevent and suppress tumor development in vitro, validated by antioxidant, genoprotective, and cytotoxic properties. A total of 45 compounds were detected by UHPLC-HRMS analysis in A. vulgaris ethanolic extract. Measurement of antioxidant activity revealed the significant potential of the tested extract to scavenge free radicals. In addition, the analysis of micronuclei showed an in vitro protective effect on chromosome aberrations in peripheral human lymphocytes. A. vulgaris extract strongly suppressed the growth of human cell lines derived from different types of tumors (MCF-7, A375, A549, and HCT116). The observed antitumor effect is realized through the blockade of cell division, caspase-dependent apoptosis, and autophagic cell death. Our study has shown that Alchemilla vulgaris L. is a valuable source of bioactive compounds able to protect the subcellular structure from damage, thus preventing tumorigenesis as well as suppressing tumor cell growth.

Therapeutic effect of natural polyphenols against glioblastoma

Glioblastoma (GBM) is the most common and aggressive tumor of the central nervous system, which has a highly invasive growth pattern, which creates poor prospects for patient survival. Chemotherapy and tumor surgery are limited by anticancer drug resistance and tumor invasion. Evidence suggests that combinations of treatments may be more effective than single drugs alone. Natural polyphenolic compounds have potential as drugs for the treatment of glioblastoma and are considered as potential anticancer drugs. Although these beneficial effects are promising, the efficacy of natural polyphenolic compounds in GBM is limited by their bioavailability and blood-brain barrier permeability. Many of them have a significant effect on reducing the progression of glioblastoma through mechanisms such as reduced migration and cell invasion or chemosensitization. Various chemical formulations have been proposed to improve their pharmacological properties. This review summarizes natural polyphenolic compounds and their physiological effects in glioblastoma models by modulating signaling pathways involved in angiogenesis, apoptosis, chemoresistance, and cell invasion. Polyphenolic compounds are emerging as promising agents for combating the progression of glioblastoma. However, clinical trials are still needed to confirm the properties of these compounds in vitro and in vivo.

Gurgem-7 toxicity assessment: Regulation of cell survival or death by traditional Mongolian prescription

Surgical treatments and chemotherapy are the most commonly used methods of colorectal cancer treatment (CRC), unfortunately, these therapies have many side effects. Moreover, despite advances in primary and adjuvant treatments, the survival time in CRC patients is still unsatisfactory. Treatment options for patients with CRC continue to advance and recent research has shown that colorectal cancer is sensitive to plant-derived substances. The use of natural compounds contained in herbal extracts for the treatment of colon cancer or as adjunctive therapy for CRC gives patients a wide range of treatment options. In this study, we evaluate the potential toxicity of the Mongolian preparation - Gurgem-7 composed of Crocus sativus, Veronica officinalis, Capsella bursa-pastoris, Arctostaphylos uva-ursi, Calendula officinalis, Gentiana lutea, and Terminalia chebula. Therefore, the aim of this study was to determine its biological activities, biochemical and molecular features in vitro and composition analysis by HPLC-ESI-QTOF-MS/MS platform. We identified 18 metabolites and 8 of them were quantified. Majority of the secondary metabolites belonged to the group of phenolic constituents with taxifolin, chlorogenic acids' family, hydroxysafflor yellow A and hydroxybenzoic acid as leading compounds. In turn, our in vitro results suggest that the preparation inhibits cell metabolic activity through oxidative stress, numerous DNA damage and cell cycle arrest. Simultaneously enzymatic and non-enzymatic cell protection mechanisms mediated by TP53/Keap1 and Nrf2/HO-1 pathways may be activated in a cell-specific manner in vitro. In conclusion, we provide preliminary molecular evidence of the toxic properties of Gurgem-7 preparation to Caco-2 and CT26. WT cells related to insufficient action of their repair and adaptive mechanisms to stress conditions.

Anticancer potential of Phoenix dactylifera L. seed extract in human cancer cells and pro-apoptotic effects mediated through caspase-3 dependent pathway in human breast cancer MDA-MB-231 cells: an in vitro and in silico investigation

Background

Phoenix dactylifera L. has a diverse set of pharmacological properties due to its distinct phytochemical profile. The purpose of this study was to investigate the anticancer potential of Phoenix dactylifera seed extract (PDSE) in human breast cancer MDA-MB-231 and MCF-7 cells, as well as liver cancer HepG2 cells, and to investigate the anticancer efficacy in triple-negative MDA-MB-231 cells, followed by in silico validation of the molecular interaction between active components of PDSE and caspase-3, an apoptosis executioner protein .

Methods

In this study, human cancer cell lines were cultured and subsequently treated with 10 to 100 μg/mL of PDSE. MTT test was performed to determine the cell viability, MMP was measured using fluorescent probe JC-1, nuclear condensation was determined by Hoechst 33258 dye, Annexin V-FITC & PI staining and cell cycle analysis were evaluated through flow cytometer, and apoptotic markers were detected using western blotting. The bioactive agents in PDSE were identified using high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) analysis. The binding affinity was validated using molecular docking tools AutoDock Vina and iGEMDOCK v2.1.

Results

Cell viability data indicated that PDSE inhibited cell proliferation in both breast cancer cells and liver cancer cells. MDA-MB-231 cells showed maximum growth inhibition with an IC₅₀ value of 85.86 μg/mL for PDSE. However, PDSE did not show any significant toxicity against the normal Vero cell line. PDSE induced MMP loss and formation of apoptotic bodies, enhanced late apoptosis at high doses and arrested cells in the S phase of cell cycle. PDSE activated the enzymatic activity of cleaved caspase-3 and caused the cleavage of poly-ADB ribose polymerase (PARP) protein. PDSE upregulated pro-apoptotic Bax protein markedly but  no significant effect on tumor suppressor protein p53, while it downregulated the anti-apoptotic Bcl-2 protein expression. HPLC analysis showed the presence of rutin and quercetin bioactive flavonols in ethanolic extract of PDS. Interestingly, both active components revealed a strong binding interaction with amino acid residues of caspase-3 (PDB ID: 2XYP; Hetero 4-mer - A2B2) protein.

Conclusion

PDS could serve as a potential medicinal source for apoptotic cell death in human breast cancer cells and, thus, could be used as a promising and crucial candidate in anticancer drug development. This study warrants further in vivo research, followed by clinical investigation.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12906-022-03533-0.

Application of Quality by Design Approach to the Pharmaceutical Development of Anticancer Crude Extracts of Crocus sativus Perianth

The application of the Quality by Design (QbD) concept to extracts obtained from Crocus sativus perianth with potential anticancer activity will ensure the safety, efficiency, and quality control of the entire technological process, as well as determine the critical factors affecting the quality of extracts. Potentially critical points of the production of the plant extracts, including the cultivation and processing of the plant materials, the extraction process, and the choice of solvents, were identified using the Ishikawa diagram and FMEA risk assessment methods as well as the corrective actions proposed. The Herbal Chemical Marker Ranking System (HerbMars) approach was used to justify the Q-markers choice of Crocus, which takes into account bioavailability, pharmacological activity, and the presence of the selected standard. An experimental design (DoE) was used to assess the influence of potentially critical factors on the efficiency of the compound extraction from raw materials with water or ethanol. The presence of 16 compounds in Crocus perianth was determined by HPLC and their quantitative assessment was established. Selected compounds (ferulic acid, mangiferin, crocin, rutin, isoquercitrin) can be used for the quality control of Crocus perianth. In addition, the stigmas from the Volyn region met the requirements of ISO 3632 for saffron as a spice (category I). The cytotoxic activity against melanoma (IGR39) and triple-negative breast cancer (MDA-MB-231) cell lines of the hydroethanolic extract of C. sativus perianth was significantly more pronounced than the water extract, probably due to the chemical composition of the constituent components. The results show that the QbD approach is a powerful tool for process development for the production of quality herbal drugs.

Evaluation of Phytochemical Contents and In Vitro Antioxidant, Anti-Inflammatory, and Anticancer Activities of Black Rice Leaf (Oryza sativa L.) Extract and Its Fractions

Black rice leaves (Oryza sativa L.) are a major part of rice straw left in open fields after rice harvest as agricultural waste. In this study, crude ethanolic extract (CEE) and various solvent fractions (hexane (Hex), ethyl acetate (EtOAc), n-butanol (n-BuOH), and aqueous fractions) of black rice leaves were investigated for their bioactive compound contents as well as antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anticancer activities. The results demonstrated that among all the fractions, the n-BuOH fraction presented the greatest contents of total phenolics and flavonoids, while anthocyanins were found to be abundant in the n-BuOH and aqueous fractions, which also exhibited powerful antioxidant abilities according to DPPH and ABTS radical-scavenging assays and a reducing power assay. Regarding anti-inflammatory activity, CEE and EtOAc reduced the production of NO and cytokine secretion (PGE2, IL-6, and IL-1β) but displayed less effect on tumor necrosis factor α (TNF-α) release in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced RAW 264.7 cells. They also significantly decreased iNOS and COX-2 protein expression. Additionally, the phenolics-rich ethyl acetate fraction showed the greatest activity against HepG2 liver carcinoma cells, inhibited cell growth, increased the Sub-G1 population, and induced apoptosis via mitochondrion-dependent mechanisms. In conclusion, black rice leaves, a byproduct of rice, exhibited strong antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anticancer capacities and might be useful for application in functional foods and the pharmaceutical industry.

Bioavailability comparison between a compound comprising hesperetin-7-glucoside with β-cyclodextrin and a mixture of hesperidin and dextrin in healthy adult human males

The pharmacokinetics of compounds comprising hesperetin-7-glucoside with β-cyclodextrin and physically mixed hesperidin/dextrin was compared in 8 healthy adult male subjects in a nonrandomized, double-blind, cross-over, controlled study. For 0-24 h, the area under the curve of the total plasma hesperetin concentration after hesperetin-7-glucoside with β-cyclodextrin consumption was >100-fold higher than that after hesperidin/dextrin consumption.

13-Weeks subchronic toxicity of isoquercitrin-γ-cyclodextrin (IQC-γCD) molecular inclusion complex in Sprague-Dawley rats

Flavonoids such as quercetin and its glycoside Isoquercitrin and are abundantly present in the diet and have various pharmacological effects. However, limited data about its potential toxicity is available. In this study, we aim to evaluate the subchronic toxicity of the isoquercitrin-γ-cyclodextrin (IQC-γCD) molecular inclusion complex (SunActive® QCD/EN) in Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats. The IQC-γCD was administrated orally to 40 male and 40 female SD rats at dietary doses up to 5.0 % for 13 consecutive weeks. During the experiment periods, the general clinical signs, mortality, hematological, urinalysis values, biochemical, and histopathological parameters were examined. All animals survived until the scheduled necropsy, and no statistically significant or clinical sign of toxicologically relevant differences including pathology parameters, and histopathological endpoints were observed in any of the IQC-γCD treatment groups, compared with the control group. However, certain observations were noted in the male rats treated with the highest concentration (5.0 %), but these were not seen in female rats. A slight inhibition of weight gain was observed, probably linked to a fall in red blood cells, and hematocrit index in female rats. Statistically significant changes were noted in some clinical measures, such as plasma bilirubin level, alkaline phosphatase total bile acid without evidence of systemic clinical toxicity. The results support no observed adverse effect level (NOAEL) of IQC-γCD of 5.0 % in the diet for males (3338.55 mg/kg/day), and 3.0 % in the diet for females (2177.33 mg/kg/day) SD rats. Therefore, in this 13 weeks repeated-dose SD rat study there were no treatment-related adverse clinical or pathological findings for IQC-γCD of 5.0 % in the diet for males, and 3.0 % in the diet for females SD rats. The results of the present study support the safe use of IQC-γCD as a functional food, food additive, and natural ingredient.

Chemical profiling and multicomponents quantitative analysis of Panzerina lanata by ultra-fast liquid chromatography with tandem mass spectrometry

Panzerina lanata is a Chinese medicine with the bioactivity of detumescence and detoxification. In this study, novel qualitative and quantitative methods were established by ultra-high performance liquid chromatography-quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry and ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography-triple quadrupole linear ion trap mass spectrometry, respectively. As a result, 20 compounds were identified or tentatively characterized including flavonoids, organic acids, alkaloids, and lignans, five of which were identified for the first time based on the reference standards. The quantitative approach exhibited good linearity (R²  > 0.995), precision (RSDs < 4.97%), stability (RSDs < 4.77%), and recovery (96.04-104.14%). Afterward, this method was implemented to determine 11 flavonoids in four batches of P. lanata. Among them, seven compounds were quantified for the first time. Narcissin was abundant in each batch of P. lanata (average of 10.890-14.230 mg/g) with the highest quantities. The results provide valuable information for quality evaluation.

Hyptis mociniana: phytochemical fingerprint and photochemoprotective effect against UV-B radiation-induced erythema and skin carcinogenesis

Skin cancer is a public health problem due to its high incidence. Ultraviolet radiation (UVR) is the main etiological agent of this disease. Photochemoprotection involves the use of substances to avoid damage caused by UV exposure. The aim of this work was to determine the phytochemical fingerprint and photochemoprotective effect against UVB radiation-induced skin damage such as erythema and carcinogenesis of H. mociniana methanolic extract (MEHm). The chemical composition of the MEHm was analysed by LC/ESI-MS/MS. Three quercetin derivatives, two pectinolides, and two caffeic acid derivatives were identified in the methanolic extract. MEHm has antioxidant effect and it is not cytotoxic in HaCaT cells. Phytochemicals from H. mociniana have a photochemopreventive effect because they absorb UV light and protect HaCaT cells from UVR-induced cell death. Also, in SKH-1 mice -acute exposure-, it decreased erythema formation, modulating the inflammatory response, reduced the skin damage according to histological analysis and diminished p53 expression. Finally, MEHm protects from photocarcinogenesis by reducing the incidence and multiplicity of skin carcinomas in SKH-1 mice exposed chronically to UVB radiation.

Artemisia scoparia and Metabolic Health: Untapped Potential of an Ancient Remedy for Modern Use

Botanicals have a long history of medicinal use for a multitude of ailments, and many modern pharmaceuticals were originally isolated from plants or derived from phytochemicals. Among these, artemisinin, first isolated from Artemisia annua, is the foundation for standard anti-malarial therapies. Plants of the genus Artemisia are among the most common herbal remedies across Asia and Central Europe. The species Artemisia scoparia (SCOPA) is widely used in traditional folk medicine for various liver diseases and inflammatory conditions, as well as for infections, fever, pain, cancer, and diabetes. Modern in vivo and in vitro studies have now investigated SCOPA's effects on these pathologies and its ability to mitigate hepatotoxicity, oxidative stress, obesity, diabetes, and other disease states. This review focuses on the effects of SCOPA that are particularly relevant to metabolic health. Indeed, in recent years, an ethanolic extract of SCOPA has been shown to enhance differentiation of cultured adipocytes and to share some properties of thiazolidinediones (TZDs), a class of insulin-sensitizing agonists of the adipogenic transcription factor PPARγ. In a mouse model of diet-induced obesity, SCOPA diet supplementation lowered fasting insulin and glucose levels, while inducing metabolically favorable changes in adipose tissue and liver. These observations are consistent with many lines of evidence from various tissues and cell types known to contribute to metabolic homeostasis, including immune cells, hepatocytes, and pancreatic beta-cells. Compounds belonging to several classes of phytochemicals have been implicated in these effects, and we provide an overview of these bioactives. The ongoing global epidemics of obesity and metabolic disease clearly require novel therapeutic approaches. While the mechanisms involved in SCOPA's effects on metabolic, anti-inflammatory, and oxidative stress pathways are not fully characterized, current data support further investigation of this plant and its bioactives as potential therapeutic agents in obesity-related metabolic dysfunction and many other conditions.

Investigation of Phenolic Composition and Anticancer Properties of Ethanolic Extracts of Japanese Quince Leaves

Glioblastoma multiforme is an aggressive and invasive disease with no efficient therapy available, and there is a great need for finding alternative treatment strategies. This study aimed to investigate anticancer activity of the extracts of the Japanese quince (JQ) cultivars ‘Darius’, ‘Rondo’, and ‘Rasa’ leaf extracts on glioblastoma C6 and HROG36 cells. As identified by ultra high performance liquid chromatography electrospray ionization tandem mass spectrometry, the extracts contained three prevailing groups of phenols: hydroxycinnamic acid derivatives; flavan-3-ols; and flavonols. Sixteen phenols were detected; the predominant compound was chlorogenic acid. The sum of detected phenols varied significantly between the cultivars ranging from 9322 µg/g (‘Rondo’) to 17,048 µg/g DW (‘Darius’). Incubation with the extracts decreased the viability of glioblastoma HROG36 cells with an efficiency similar to temozolomide, a drug used for glioblastoma treatment. In the case of C6 glioblastoma cells, the extracts were even more efficient than temozolomide. Interestingly, primary cerebellar neuronal-glial cells were significantly less sensitive to the extracts compared to the cancer cell lines. The results showed that JQ leaf ethanol extracts are rich in phenolic compounds, can efficiently reduce glioblastoma cell viability while preserving non-cancerous cells, and are worth further investigations as potential anticancer drugs.

Apigenin Increases SHIP-1 Expression, Promotes Tumoricidal Macrophages and Anti-Tumor Immune Responses in Murine Pancreatic Cancer

Pancreatic cancer (PC) has an extremely poor prognosis due to the expansion of immunosuppressive myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSC) and tumor-associated macrophages (TAM) in the inflammatory tumor microenvironment (TME), which halts the recruitment of effector immune cells and renders immunotherapy ineffective. Thus, the identification of new molecular targets that can modulate the immunosuppressive TME is warranted for PC intervention. Src Homology-2 (SH2) domain-containing Inositol 5'-Phosphatase-1 (SHIP-1) is a lipid signaling protein and a regulator of myeloid cell development and function. Herein, we used the bioflavonoid apigenin (API) to reduce inflammation in different PC models. Wild type mice harboring heterotopic or orthotopic PC were treated with API, which induced SHIP-1 expression, reduced inflammatory tumor-derived factors (TDF), increased the proportion of tumoricidal macrophages and enhanced anti-tumor immune responses, resulting in a reduction in tumor burden compared to vehicle-treated PC mice. In contrast, SHIP-1-deficient mice exhibited an increased tumor burden and displayed augmented proportions of pro-tumor macrophages. These results provide further support for the importance of SHIP-1 expression in promoting pro-tumor macrophage development in the pancreatic TME. Our findings suggest that agents augmenting SHIP-1 expression may provide novel therapeutic options for the treatment of PC.

The Flavonol Isoquercitrin Promotes Mitochondrial-Dependent Apoptosis in SK-Mel-2 Melanoma Cell via the PI3K/AKT/mTOR Pathway

Isoquercitrin (IQ), a major flavonol present in Prunus mume fruit, has gained much attention in recent studies because of its superior bioavailability and physiological effects. In this study, the anti-cancer mechanism of IQ against human melanoma, particularly its effect on the mitochondria-mediated apoptosis, was investigated. Treatment with IQ at 25 μM concentration effectively inhibited the proliferation of SK-MEL-2 skin cancer cells while the same concentration did not exhibit cytotoxicity against human keratinocytes HaCaT. Morphological analysis and clonogenic assay also showed that IQ can alter the growth and long-term survival of SK-MEL-2 cells. IQ also induced apoptosis in the melanoma cells as manifested in the nuclear morphology changes, DNA fragmentation, increase in the apoptosis rate (17.69% at 25 μM) and accumulation of sub-G1 cell cycle phase population (19.55% at 25 μM). Western blot analysis revealed the involvement of the mitochondrial apoptosis signaling pathway in the anti-cancer property of IQ. Treatment with IQ resulted in the decrease in the levels of procaspase-8 and -9, and Bcl-2 protein, and an increase in the expression of cleaved PARP and Bax. Moreover, AIF and Endo G protein expression increased, indicating a caspase-independent mitochondrial-mediated apoptosis. The anti-proliferative activity of IQ against SK-MEL-2 can also be attributed to the downregulation of the PI3K/AktmTOR signaling pathway. These findings showed that IQ can be developed into a chemopreventive therapeutic agent against the melanoma cells.

Bioactivity Screening of Mulberry Leaf Extracts and two Related Flavonoids in Combination with Cisplatin on Human Gastric Adenocarcinoma Cells

The successful therapy strategy of gastric cancer is defined as devastating the cancerous cells without exposing systematic toxicity and undesirable side effects. One strategy to overcome cancer treatment related difficulties could be combination therapy with natural products with anticancer drugs to introduce effective antitumor effects in addition to reduce undesirable side effects. In this regard, different extracts of mulberry leaf, isoquercetin and rutin as the extracted flavonoids from Morus alba, mulberry, in single dose as well as in combination with cisplatin against gastric cancer cell line were applied. This innovative treatment led to cytotoxic effect on gastric cancer cells in a synergistic manner. The findings anticipated that these herbal products have exceptional potential for future gastric cancer investigations and therapy.

The Effects of Doxorubicin, Ethanol Extract and Flavonoid-rich Fraction of Euphorbia Splendida Mobayen on the PARP Level, and APC Gene Expression in HT-29 Human Colon Cancer Cell Line

Background: Natural products derived from various sources are being used to develop chemotherapeutic drugs. Euphorbiaceae is widely used to treat different types of cancers. Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the second and third cause of cancer in women and men, respectively. CRC is strongly associated with the deregulation of the Adenomatous polyposis coli (APC) gene and Poly [ADP-ribose] polymerase (PPAR) protein. Objectives: The current study aimed to examine the effect of doxorubicin, ethanol extract, and the flavonoid-rich fraction of Euphorbia Splendida Mobayen on colon cancer HT-29 cell line death, APC gene expression, and PPAR concentration. Methods: Following treatment of cells by Euphorbia ethanol extract, Euphorbia flavonoid-rich fraction, and doxorubicin, cell viability assay was used to investigate the viability status of the HT-29 cell line. Total RNA was isolated from the cell line and converted into cDNA. The expression level of the APC gene was determined by quantitative real-time PCR. Poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase (PPAR) protein was detected by the ELIZA method. Results: We found that Euphorbia ethanol extract, Euphorbia flavonoid-rich fraction, and doxorubicin can stimulate dose-dependent cell death in the HT-29 cell line, increase ACP gene expression (P = 0.001, P = 0.041, P = 0.019), and decrease PARP level (P = 0.001, P = 0.001, P = 0.001, respectively). Conclusions: The findings indicated that doxorubicin, ethanol extract, and the flavonoid-rich fraction of Euphorbia Splendida Mobayen had cytotoxic effects on human colon cancer HT-29 cell line by possibly stimulating apoptosis.

Differential Cytotoxicity of Rooibos and Green Tea Extracts against Primary Rat Hepatocytes and Human Liver and Colon Cancer Cells - Causal Role of Major Flavonoids

Differential anti-proliferative and pro-apoptotic effects of aqueous extracts of green rooibos (Rg; Aspalathus linearis) and green tea (GT; Camellia sinensis) and an aspalathin-enriched extract of green rooibos (GRE), were investigated in primary rat hepatocytes (PH) and human liver (HepG2) and colon (HT-29) cancer cells. Rooibos flavonoids, aspalathin and luteolin, and the green tea flavanol, epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), were included to assess their contribution relative to their extract concentrations. GRE was the most effective in reducing cell growth parameters which was associated with a high total polyphenol content and high ferric reducing potential. Differential cell responses were noticed with HepG2 cells more sensitive than PH toward the induction of apoptosis by GRE. Luteolin induced apoptosis in PH and HepG2 cells while aspalathin lacked any effect. EGCG induced apoptosis in HepG2 cells while PH were resistant. HT-29 cells were resistant to apoptosis induction by the tea and pure flavonoids. Differences existed in the individual effects of the major rooibos and GT flavonoids against cell growth parameters compared to their equivalent concentrations in the extract mixtures. Diversity of the flavonoid constituents, physicochemical properties and cellular redox status governing cell survival are likely to explain the differential cell responses.

Anticancer activities of phytoconstituents and their liposomal targeting strategies against tumor cells and the microenvironment

Various bioactive ingredients have been extracted from Chinese herbal medicines (CHMs) that affect tumor progression and metastasis. To further understand the mechanisms of CHMs in cancer therapy, this article summarizes the effects of five categories of CHMs and their active ingredients on tumor cells and the tumor microenvironment. Despite their treatment potential, the undesirable physicochemical properties (poor permeability, instability, high hydrophilicity or hydrophobicity, toxicity) and unwanted pharmacokinetic profiles (short half-life in blood and low bioavailability) restrict clinical studies of CHMs. Therefore, development of liposomes through relevant surface modifying techniques to achieve targeted CHM delivery for cancer cells, i.e., extracellular and intracellular targets and targets in tumor microenvironment or vasculature, have been reviewed. Current challenges of liposomal targeting of these phytoconstituents and future perspective of CHM applications are discussed to provide an informative reference for interested readers.

Aberrant canonical Wnt signaling: Phytochemical based modulation

BACKGROUND

Wnt signaling pathway plays a major role during development like gastrulation, axis formation, organ development and organization of body plan development. Wnt signaling aberration has been linked with various disease conditions like osteoporosis, colon cancer, hair follicle tumor, Leukemia, and Alzheimer's disease. Phytochemicals like flavonoid, glycosides, polyphenols, have been reported to directly target the markers of Wnt signaling in different disease models.

PURPOSE

The study deals in detail about the different phytochemical targeting key players of Wnt signaling pathway in diseases like Cancer, Osteoporosis, and Alzheimer's disease. We have focused on the Pharmacological basis of disease alleviation by phytochemical specifically targeting the Wnt signaling markers in this study.

METHODS

The study focused on the published articles from the preclinical rodent and invitro cell line studies related to Wnt signaling and Phytochemicals related to Cancer, Alzheimer's and Osteoporosis. The electronic databases Scopus, Web of Science and Pubmed database were used for the systematic search of literatures from 2005 up to 2019 using keywords Canonical Wnt signaling pathway, Cancer, Alzheimer's disease, Osteoporosis, Phytochemicals. The focus was to identify the target specific modulation of Wnt signaling mediated by phytochemicals.

RESULTS

Approximately 30 phytochemicals of different class have been identified to modulate Wnt signaling pathway acting through Axin, β-catenin translocation, GSK-3β, AKT, Wif-1 in various experimental studies. The down regulation of Wnt signaling is observed in Cancer mostly colorectal cancer, breast cancer mediated through mutations in APC and Axin genes. Different class of Phytochemicals such as flavonoid, glycosides, polyphenol, alkaloids etc. have been found to target Wnt signaling markers and alleviate Cancer. Similarly, Up regulation of Wnt signaling has been reported in Osteoporosis and neurodegenerative disease like Alzheimer's disease.

CONCLUSION

This review highlights the possibility of the Phytochemicals to target Wnt markers and its potential to either activate or deactivate the Wnt signaling pathway. It also describes the challenges in proper targeting of Wnt signaling and the potential risk and consequences of either up regulation or down regulation of the signaling pathway. This article highlights the possibility of Wnt signaling pathway as a therapeutic option in different diseases.

Phytochemical Profile and Biological Activities of Tendrils and Leaves Extracts from a Variety of Vitis vinifera L

Winery industry by-products have a great reuse potential in the pharmaceutical and cosmetic fields due to their bioactive compounds. This study investigates the phytochemical profile and the bioactivity of Vitis vinifera variety Fetească neagră tendrils extract (TE) and leaves extract (LE), intended to be used in oral hygiene products recommended in periodontal disease. The evaluation of the phenolic content was performed by colorimetric analysis. Liquid chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry was used to determine the chemical profile of the two extracts obtained from V. vinifera. Moreover, the antioxidant activity of the extracts was determined by spectrophotometric methods, as well as on human gingival fibroblasts (HGF) cell line. The cytocompatibility and cytoprotective effect against nicotine-induced cytotoxicity were tested, as well as the anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial effects. The TE showed higher total polyphenolic content, rich in rutin, compared to the leaves extract that displayed important amounts of isoquercitrin. The antioxidant effect was confirmed by both non-cellular and cellular tests. The cytocompatibility of the extracts was confirmed at a wide range of concentrations. The cytoprotective effect was demonstrated in HGF exposed to cytotoxic doses of nicotine; 300 µg/mL of both tested extracts decreased nicotine toxicity by approximately 20%. When challenged with E. coli polysaccharides, in HGF cells co-exposed to TE and LE, a reduction in the release of proinflammatory cytokines (IL-8, IL-6 and IL-1β) was observed. The extracts were both able to reduce the levels of reactive oxygen species and inflammatory cytokines, and had notable antimicrobial effects on pathogenic bacteria associated with periodontitis.

El-Ansary D. Mammillaria Species-Polyphenols Studies and Anti-Cancer, Anti-Oxidant, and Anti-Bacterial Activities

Discovering new natural resources of polyphenols is the aim of many recent studies in the field of natural product research. This study tentatively investigated the polyphenols profile of the stems of seven Mammillaria species (M. rhodantha, M. spinosissima, M. hahniana, M. crucigera, M. candida, M. albilanata, and M. muehlenpfordtii) using high performance liquid chromatography with DAD detector (HPLC-DAD) method. Furthermore, the anti-cancer, anti-oxidant, and anti-bacterial potentials of these extracts as well as major identified phenols were explored. The HPLC-DAD study confirmed the availability of six phenolic acids, including gentisic acid, chlorogenic acid, caffeic acid, protocatechuic acid, sinapic acid, and p-hydroxybenzoic acid. The dominant compounds were: gentisic acid in M. rhodantha and M. spinosissima; chlorogenic acid in M. muehlenpfordtii, M. crucigera, and M. rhodantha; and caffeic acid in M. rhodantha, M. crucigera, and M. spinosissima. Stems of Mammillaria sp. showed antiproliferative effects against HeLa, MCF-7, and Jurkat cells. In HeLa and MCF-7 cells, the best antiproliferative activities were found in the treatments with M. rhodantha, M. spinosissima, and M. muehlenpfordtii. The apoptotic assay of M. rhodantha, M. spinosissima, and M. muehlenpfordtii showed accumulation of necrotic cells in the early and late apoptotic phase. M. rhodantha, M. spinosissima, and M. muehlenpfordtii showed the highest anti-oxidant activities using 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), β-carotene bleaching, and ferric reducing anti-oxidant power (FRAP) assays. M. rhodantha was the best source of antioxidants. Mammillaria sp. showed moderate anti-bacterial effects against bacteria and the highest effects were found using the extracts of M. rhodantha, M. spinosissima, M. crucigera and M. muehlenpfordtii against most bacteria. The anti-bacterial activities were attributed to other phenolic compounds (e.g., chlorogenic acid) than gentisic acid, which was not active against most bacteria. Mammillaria sp. could be considered to be an important natural source of phenolic acids with anti-cancer, anti-bacterial, and anti-oxidant activities.

In vitro response of human ovarian cancer cells to dietary bioflavonoid isoquercitrin

Isoquercitrin is a dietary bioflavonoid used as a food supplement. We studied the mechanism underlying its effect in human ovarian cancer cells using OVCAR-3 cell line. Viability, survival, apoptosis, release of human transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1) and TGF-β1 receptor, and intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation by OVCAR-3 cells were examined after isoquercitrin treatment at concentrations 5, 10, 25, 50, and 100 μg mL^-1. AlamarBlue assay revealed that isoquercitrin did not cause any significant change (P > 0.05) in cell viability as compared to control. Apoptotic assay using flow cytometry did not find any significant change (P > 0.05) in the proportion of live, dead and apoptotic cells as compared to control. ELISA also showed that the release of human TGF-β1 and TGF-β1 receptor were not significantly (P > 0.05) affected by isoquercitrin as compared to control. Chemiluminescence assay demonstrated that lower concentrations (5, 10, and 25 μg mL^-1) were able to exhibit beneficial effects by inhibiting the generation of intracellular ROS. In contrast, elevated concentrations of 50 and 100 μg mL^-1 led to oxidative stress (P < 0.05). We concluded that the beneficial effect of isoquercitrin on ovarian cancer cells may be mediated by an antioxidative pathway that involves inhibition of intracellular ROS generation, thereby limiting oxidative stress.

Biologically Active Ajuga Species Extracts Modulate Supportive Processes for Cancer Cell Development

Backround:Ajuga species have been used in traditional medicine for their diuretic, anti-inflammatory, wound-healing, and hepatoprotective properties.

Purpose: The phytochemical profile and anticancer potential of three Ajuga sp. (A. genevensis, A. chamaepitys, and A. laxmannii) from Romania was investigated.

Materials and Methods: The phytochemicals were extracted from the aerial parts of Ajuga sp. by using different solvents and methods. The hydroalcoholic extracts were examined for total phenolic, flavonoid and iridoid contents, and HPLC/MS was used to analyze the polyphenolic compounds and iridoids. The phytochemical profile was also evaluated by principal component analysis in connection with antitumor efficacy of extracts. The antiproliferative potential was evaluated using the ELISA BrdU-colorimetric immunoassay. Western Blot with regard to inflammatory protein NF-κB (nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells) p65 subunit expression in cell lysates was performed. Quantification of oxidative stress marker malondialdehyde (MDA) was determined by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). Enzymatic and non-enzymatic antioxidant capability was assessed by measuring catalase activity and by evaluating the total antioxidant capacity (TAC) of treated cells.

Results:Ajuga laxmannii ethanol extract showed the highest total phenolic and flavonoid content, while A. genevensis ethanol extract was more abundant in iridoids. The overall cytostatic effect of the investigated plant extracts was exerted through strong inhibitory actions on NF-κB, the key molecule involved in the inflammatory response and via oxidative stress modulatory effects in both murine colon carcinoma and melanoma cell lines.

Conclusion:Ajuga laxmannii showed the most significant antitumor activity and represents an important source of bioactive compounds, possibly an additional form of treatment alongside conventional anticancer drugs.

Halophytic Grasses, a New Source of Nutraceuticals? A Review on Their Secondary Metabolites and Biological Activities

The Poaceae family, known as grasses, is distributed worldwide and is considered the most important group of monocotyledonous crops. Salt stress is multifactorial, therefore to survive, halophytes evolved a variety of adaptations, which include the biosynthesis of different primary and secondary metabolites. This trait enhances the accumulation of important families of compounds crucial to the prevention of a variety of chronic diseases. Besides, if proven edible, these species could cope with the increased soil salinity responsible for the decline of arable land due to their high nutritional/nutraceutical value. Herein, the phytochemical investigations performed in halophytes from the Poaceae family as well as their biological properties were explored. Among the 65 genera and 148 species of known halophytic grasses, only 14% of the taxa were studied phytochemically and 10% were subjected to biological evaluation. Notably, in the studied species, a variety of compound families, as well as bioactivities, were demonstrated, highlighting the potential of halophytic grasses.

Molecular cloning and biochemical characterization of a new flavonoid glycosyltransferase from the aquatic plant lotus

Lotus (Nelumbo nucifera Gaertn.), one of the earliest plants in angiosperms, is a perennial aquatic herb widely distributed throughout Eastern Asia. Quercetin and its glycosides are the most abundant phenolic compounds in lotus with multiple pharmacological activities. Although many flavonoid O-glycosyltransferases involved in the biosynthesis of quercetin glycosides have been identified from terrestrial plants, no glycosyltransferase has been identified in aquatic plants. In this study, a new glycosyltransferase (NpUGT6) was identified from the embryo of Nelumbo nucifera (Nelumbinis Plumula). Function characterization demonstrated that NpUGT6 exhibited a robust capability to regio- and stereo-specific O-glycosylation at the 3-hydroxy group of quercetin scaffolds with UDP-glucose. Moreover, the O-glycosylation catalyzed by NpUGT6 was reversible. NpUGT6 is the first identified flavonoid O-glycosyltransferase from aquatic plants. Its sequence will provide useful guidance for the discovery of additional flavonoid glycosyltransferses in Nymphaeaceae and other aquatic plants.

In vitro and in vivo cytotoxic effect of AntiGan against tumor cells

Novel effective chemopreventive agents against cancer are required to improve current therapeutic rates. The aim of the present study was to investigate the anti-carcinogenesis effect of AntiGan, an extract obtained from the European conger eel, Conger conger, in vitro (human tumor cell lines) and in vivo (murine model of colitis) models. The potential apoptogenic activity after 24 h of incubation with 10, 25 and 50 µl/ml AntiGan was reported using growth inhibition and apoptosis activity assays. In vivo studies were performed in mice by inducing colitis with oral administration of 2% dextran sulphate sodium (DSS) for 5 weeks. Apoptosis was observed in HL-60, Hs 313.T, SW-480, Caco-2 and HT-29 cell lines. The highest level of growth inhibition was observed in Caco-2 (66, 75.8 and 88.1%), HT-29 (56, 73 and 87.6%) and SW-480 (38.5, 61.6, 78.6%) for AntiGan doses of 10, 25 and 50 µl/ml, respectively, compared to untreated cells, while the results of the expression of genes associated with apoptosis indicated a downregulation of B-cell lymphoma 2 (Bcl-2) in all cell lines studied. In vivo, morphopathological alterations in the colon were analyzed by immunohistochemical and staining methods. Tumoral markers, including β-catenin, cyclooxygenase 2 and Bcl-2 were expressed in cryptal cells of the dysplastic colonic mucosa, whereas the levels of interferon-γ expression were also increased when no treatment was applied. In the experimental murine model, the optimal concentration of AntiGan for an effective dose-response was 10% in diet. These results suggested that AntiGan displays a powerful anti-inflammatory effect in DSS-induced colitis, acting as a chemopreventive agent against colon carcinogenesis, most likely due to its apoptogenic peptides that contribute to the induction of apoptosis.

WNT Inhibitory Activity of Malus Pumila miller cv Annurca and Malus domestica cv Limoncella Apple Extracts on Human Colon-Rectal Cells Carrying Familial Adenomatous Polyposis Mutations

Inhibitors of the Wingless-related Integration site (WNT)/β-catenin pathway have recently been under consideration as potential chemopreventive agents against Familial Adenomatous Polyposis (FAP). This autosomal-dominant syndrome is caused by germline mutations in the gene coding for the protein APC and leads to hyperactivation of the WNT/β-catenin signaling pathway, uncontrolled intestinal cell proliferation and formation of adenocarcinomas. The aim of the present work was to: (i) test, on in vitro cultures of cells carrying FAP mutations and on ex vivo biopsies of FAP patients, the WNT inhibitory activity of extracts from two common southern Italian apples, Malus pumila Miller cv. 'Annurca' and Malus domestica cv 'Limoncella'; (ii) identify the mechanisms underpinning their activities and; (iii) evaluate their potency upon gastrointestinal digestion. We here show that both Annurca and Limoncella apple extracts act as WNT inhibitors, mostly thanks to their polyphenolic contents. They inhibit the pathway in colon cells carrying FAP mutations with active dilutions falling in ranges close to consumer-relevant concentrations. Food-grade manufacturing of apple extracts increases their WNT inhibitory activity as result of the conversion of quercetin glycosides into the aglycone quercetin, a potent WNT inhibitor absent in the fresh fruit extract. However, in vitro simulated gastrointestinal digestion severely affected WNT inhibitory activity of apple extracts, as result of a loss of polyphenols. In conclusion, our results show that apple extracts inhibit the WNT pathway in colon cells carrying FAP mutations and represent a potential nutraceutical alternative for the treatment of this pathology. Enteric coating is advisable to preserve the activity of the extracts in the colon-rectal section of the digestive tract.

In Vitro Screening for Cytotoxic Activity of Herbal Extracts

Experimental studies have shown that a variety of chemopreventive plant components affect tumor initiation, promotion, and progression and the main difference, between botanical medicines and synthetic drugs, resides in the presence of complex metabolite mixtures shown by botanical medicine which in turn exert their action on different levels and via different mechanisms. In the present study, we performed an in vitro screening of ethanol extracts from commercial plants in order to investigate potential antitumor activity against human tumor cell lines. Experimental results obtained through a variety of methods and techniques indicated that extracts of I. verum, G. glabra, R. Frangula, and L. usitatissimum present significant reduction in in vitro tumor cell proliferation, suggesting these extracts as possible chemotherapeutical adjuvants for different cancer treatments.

Transformed Root Extract of Leonurus sibiricus Induces Apoptosis through Intrinsic and Extrinsic Pathways in Various Grades of Human Glioma Cells

This study determines the influence of transformed root (TR) extract of Leonurus sibiricus L. on various grades (I-III) of human glioma cells derived from patients. This plant occurs in southern Asia and Siberia and is widely used as a medicinal plant with various biological activities. Chromatographic profile of TR extract have revealed the presence of various polyphenolic compounds (4-hydroxybenzoic acid, gentisic acid, vanilic acid, 1,3-dicaffeoylquinic acid, α-resorcylic acid). We found TR root extract to have antiproliferative activity on glioma cells after 24 h of treatment. TR root extract induces apoptosis on various grades (I-III) of human glioma cells by the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) along with concurrent loss of mitochondrial membrane potential, enhanced S and G2/M phases of the cell cycle, and altered mRNA levels of Bax, Bcl-2, p53, Cas-3, Cas-8 and Cas-9 factors involved in apoptosis. This work for the first time demonstrate that TR extract from L. sibiricus root has the potential to activate apoptosis in grade I-III human glioma cells through the intrinsic and extrinsic pathways.

The effects of baicalein on gastric mucosal ulcerations in mice: Protective pathways and anti-secretory mechanisms

Many flavonoids have been shown to present good results for the treatment of gastric ulcers. Baicalein, a bioactive flavonoid derived from the Scutellaria baicalensis Georgi root, possesses several biological effects, such as anti-inflammatory and antioxidant. This study was conducted to assess the gastroprotective properties of baicalein. Anti-ulcerogenic assay was performed using the protocol of ulcer induced by ethanol/HCl in mice; then, the role of presynaptic α₂-receptors, sulfhydryl (SH) compounds, nitric oxide (NO), prostaglandin (PG) and ATP-sensitive K⁺ (K_ATP) channels in gastroprotection of baicalein was investigated. The levels of reduced glutathione (GSH) and the myeloperoxidase (MPO) activity were measured in the gastric mucosa. Parameters of gastric secretion (volume, [H⁺] and pH) were determined with or without the presence of the secretagogue agent histamine, as well as mucus in gastric contents, by the pylorus ligation model. In vitro H⁺,K⁺-ATPase activity was also determined. Baicalein (10, 30 and 100 mg/kg) exhibited a dose related gastroprotective effect (P < 0.001) against acidified ethanol-induced lesions. The intraperitoneal treatment of mice with a α₂-adrenoreceptor antagonist (yohimbine; 2 mg/kg), a SH compounds blocker (N-ethylmaleimide, NEM; 10 mg/kg), a non-selective inhibitor of NO synthase (N_w-nitro-L-arginine methyl ester hydrochloride, L-NAME; 10 mg/kg), a non-selective inhibitor of cyclo-oxygenase (indomethacin; 10 mg/kg) or a K_ATP channel blocker (glibenclamide; 10 mg/kg) was able to reverse (P < 0.001) the gastroprotective response caused by baicalein (30 mg/kg). Baicalein (30 mg/kg; P < 0.05) was able to increase GSH levels and decreasing MPO activity. The intraduodenal treatment with baicalein (30 and 100 mg/kg) significantly increased (P < 0.05) the gastric mucus secretion. Additionally, the treatment with baicalein reduced (30 and 100 mg/kg; P < 0.05) the secretion volume and total acid secretion, and also increased (10, 30 and 100 mg/kg; P < 0.001) the pH value, after pylorus ligature. Baicalein (30 mg/kg) was also effective in inhibiting the effects of histamine on gastric secretion (volume, [H⁺] and pH; P < 0.001). Baicalein at 10 and 30 μg/mL showed anti-H⁺,K⁺-ATPase activity. In conclusion, the present results provide convincing evidence that baicalein could be used as a cytoprotective (preventive effect) and anti-ulcerogenic (anti-secretory effect) agent in the gastric ulcers.

Ultrastructural changes during lung carcinogenesis-modulation by curcumin and quercetin

The aim of the present study was to examine the effectiveness of curcumin and quercetin in modulating ultrastructural changes during lung carcinogenesis. A total of 24 male laka mice were divided into the normal control, benzo[a]pyrene (BP)-treated, BP+curcumin-treated, BP+quercetin- treated, and BP+curcumin+quercetin-treated groups (n=6 per group). Lung carcinogenesis was induced by a single intraperitoneal injection of BP [100 mg/kg of body weight (b.wt.)]. Curcumin was supplemented to mice at a dose level of 60 mg/kg of b.wt. in drinking water and quercetin was given at a dose level of 40 mg/kg of b.wt. in drinking water. The ultrastructure of BP-treated mice revealed disruptions in cellular integrity together with nuclear deformation and premature mitochondrial aging. Notably, supplementation with phytochemicals individually resulted in improvement of the ultra-histoarchitecture of BP-treated mice although the improvement was much greater with combined supplementation of phytochemicals. Furthermore, BP treatment revealed alterations in lung histoarchitecture, which, however, were improved appreciably following combined supplementation with curcumin and quercetin. The results of the present study show that, combined supplementation with curcumin and quercetin effectively preserved the histoarchitecture as well as ultra-histoarchitecture during BP-induced lung carcinogenesis in mice.