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Cyril AC, Ali NM, Nelliyulla Parambath A, Vazhappilly CG, Jan RK, Karuvantevida N, Aburamadan H, Lozon Y, Radhakrishnan R. Nigella sativa and its chemical constituents: pre-clinical and clinical evidence for their potential anti-SARS-CoV-2 effects. Inflammopharmacology 2024; 32:273-285. [PMID: 37966624 DOI: 10.1007/s10787-023-01385-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2023] [Accepted: 10/24/2023] [Indexed: 11/16/2023]
Abstract
Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) has caused over 500 million reported cases of COVID-19 worldwide with relatively high morbidity and mortality. Although global vaccination drive has helped control the pandemic, the newer variant of the virus still holds the world in ransom. Several medicinal herbs with antiviral properties have been reported, and one such promising herb is Nigella sativa (NS). Recent molecular docking, pre-clinical, and clinical studies have shown that NS extracts may have the potential to prevent the entry of coronaviruses into the host cell as well as to treat and manage COVID-19 symptoms. Several active compounds from NS, such as nigelledine, α-hederin, dithymoquinone (DTQ), and thymoquinone (TQ), have been proposed as excellent ligands to target angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2 receptors) and other targets on host cells as well as the spike protein (S protein) on SARS-CoV-2. By binding to these target proteins, these ligands could potentially prevent the binding between ACE2 and S protein. Though several articles have been published on the promising therapeutic role of NS and its constituents against SARS-CoV-2 infection, in this review, we consolidate the published information on NS and SARS-CoV-2, focusing on pre-clinical in silico studies as well as clinical trials reported between 2012 and 2023.
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Affiliation(s)
- Asha Caroline Cyril
- College of Medicine, Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dubai, United Arab Emirates.
| | - Najma Mohamed Ali
- College of Medicine, Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
| | - Anagha Nelliyulla Parambath
- College of Medicine, Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
| | - Cijo George Vazhappilly
- Department of Biotechnology, American University of Ras Al Khaimah, Ras Al Khaimah, United Arab Emirates
| | - Reem Kais Jan
- College of Medicine, Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
| | - Noushad Karuvantevida
- College of Medicine, Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
| | - Haneen Aburamadan
- College of Medicine, Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
| | - Yosra Lozon
- Dubai Pharmacy College for Girls, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
| | - Rajan Radhakrishnan
- College of Medicine, Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
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Kulyar MFEA, Li R, Mehmood K, Waqas M, Li K, Li J. Potential influence of Nagella sativa (Black cumin) in reinforcing immune system: A hope to decelerate the COVID-19 pandemic. PHYTOMEDICINE : INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PHYTOTHERAPY AND PHYTOPHARMACOLOGY 2021; 85:153277. [PMID: 32773257 PMCID: PMC7347483 DOI: 10.1016/j.phymed.2020.153277] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2020] [Revised: 06/14/2020] [Accepted: 07/02/2020] [Indexed: 05/10/2023]
Abstract
The world is witnessing a difficult time. The race of developing a new coronavirus (COVID-19) vaccine is becoming more urgent. Many preliminary studies on the pathophysiology of COVID-19 patients have provided some clues to treat this pandemic. However, no suitable treatment has found yet. Various symptoms of patients infected with COVID-19 indicated the importance of immune regulation in the human body. Severe cases admitted to the intensive care unit showed high level of pro-inflammatory cytokines which enhanced the disease severity. Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS) in COVID-19 patients is another critical factor of disease severity and mortality. So, Immune modulation is the only way of regulating immune system. Nigella sativa has been used for medicinal purposes for centuries. The components of this plant are known for its intense immune-regulatory, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant benefits in obstructive respiratory disorders. A molecular docking study also gave evidences that N. sativa decelerates COVID-19 and might give the same or better results than the FDA approved drugs. The aim of this review was to investigate the possible immune-regulatory effects of N. sativa on COVID-19 pandemic. Our review found N. sativa's Thymoquinone, Nigellidine, and α-hederin can be a potential influencer in reinforcing the immune response on molecular grounds.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Rongrong Li
- Department of Neurology, Jinling Hospital, Medical School of Nanjing University, Nanjing 210002, Jiangsu, China
| | - Khalid Mehmood
- Faculty of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, The Islamia University of Bahawalpur-63100, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Waqas
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, 430070, China; Faculty of Veterinary & Animal Sciences, University of the Poonch, Rawalakot, District Poonch 12350, Azad Jammu & Kashmir, Pakistan
| | - Kun Li
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, 430070, China.
| | - Jiakui Li
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, 430070, China.
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Saadat S, Aslani MR, Ghorani V, Keyhanmanesh R, Boskabady MH. The effects of Nigella sativa on respiratory, allergic and immunologic disorders, evidence from experimental and clinical studies, a comprehensive and updated review. Phytother Res 2021; 35:2968-2996. [PMID: 33455047 DOI: 10.1002/ptr.7003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2020] [Revised: 11/28/2020] [Accepted: 12/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Nigella sativa (N. sativa) seed had been used traditionally due to several pharmacological effects. The updated experimental and clinical effects of N. sativa and its constituents on respiratory, allergic and immunologic disorders are provided in this comprehensive review article. Various databases including PubMed, Science Direct and Scopus were used. The preventive effects of N. sativa on pulmonary diseases were mainly due to its constituents such as thymoquinone, thymol, carvacrol and alpha-hederin. Extracts and constituents of N. sativa showed the relaxant effect, with possible mechanisms indicating its bronchodilatory effect in obstructive pulmonary diseases. In experimental animal models of different respiratory diseases, the preventive effect of various extracts and constituents of N. sativa was demonstrated by mechanisms such as antioxidant, immunomodulatory and antiinflammatory effects. Bronchodilatory and preventive effects of the plant and its components on asthma, COPD and lung disorders due to exposure to noxious agents as well as on allergic and immunologic disorders were also shown in the clinical studies. Various extracts and constituents of N. sativa showed pharmacological and therapeutic effects on respiratory, allergic and immunologic disorders indicating possible remedy effect of that the plant and its effective substances in treating respiratory, allergic and immunologic diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saeideh Saadat
- Neurogenic Inflammation Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran.,Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, Zahedan University of Medical Sciences, Zahedan, Iran
| | - Mohammad Reza Aslani
- Neurogenic Inflammation Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran.,Lung Inflammatory Diseases Research Center, Faculty of Medicine, Ardabil University of Medical Sciences, Ardabil, Iran
| | - Vahideh Ghorani
- Neurogenic Inflammation Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran.,Clinical Research Unit, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Rana Keyhanmanesh
- Tuberculosis and Lung Diseases Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Mohammad Hossein Boskabady
- Neurogenic Inflammation Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran.,Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
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Al-Azzawi MA, AboZaid MMN, Ibrahem RAL, Sakr MA. Therapeutic effects of black seed oil supplementation on chronic obstructive pulmonary disease patients: A randomized controlled double blind clinical trial. Heliyon 2020; 6:e04711. [PMID: 32904114 PMCID: PMC7452452 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2020.e04711] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2020] [Revised: 07/17/2020] [Accepted: 08/10/2020] [Indexed: 10/26/2022] Open
Abstract
This study sought to examine whether supplementation of Black Seed Oil (BSO) can improve pulmonary function tests (PFTs), inflammation, and oxidant-antioxidant markers in COPD patients. The study involved 100 patients of mild to moderate COPD divided randomly into 2 groups who were appointed to receive standard medication only (control group) or with additional Black Seed Oil (BSO group). They were assessed initially and after 3 months, 44 patients responded in control group and 47 patients in BSO group. BSO group evidenced a significant decreasing in oxidant and inflammatory markers; thiobarbituric acid reactive-substances (TBARS), protein carbonyl (PC) content, interleukin-6 (IL-6), and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), a significant increase in antioxidants; superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), reduced glutathione (GSH), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), vitamin C, and E, and a significant improvement in PFTs versus control group and baseline levels. Supplementation of Black Seed Oil may be an effective adjunct therapy to improve pulmonary functions, inflammation, and oxidant-antioxidant imbalance in COPD patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mahmood A Al-Azzawi
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, College of Dentistry, Al-Ayen University, An-Nasiriyah, Iraq
| | - Mohamed M N AboZaid
- Department of Chest Diseases, Zagazig Faculty of Medicine, Zagazig University, Egypt
| | - Reda Abdel Latif Ibrahem
- Department of Public Health and Community Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Menoufia University, Egypt
| | - Moustafa A Sakr
- Molecular Diagnostics Department, Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology Research Institute (GEBRI), University of Sadat City, Sadat City, Egypt
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Gholamnezhad Z, Shakeri F, Saadat S, Ghorani V, Boskabady MH. Clinical and experimental effects of Nigella sativa and its constituents on respiratory and allergic disorders. AVICENNA JOURNAL OF PHYTOMEDICINE 2019; 9:195-212. [PMID: 31143688 PMCID: PMC6526035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Black cumin or Nigella sativa (N. sativa) seed has been widely used traditionally as a medicinal natural product because of its therapeutic effects. In this review, the medicinal properties of N. sativa as a healing remedy for the treatment of respiratory and allergic diseases, were evaluated. MATERIAL AND METHODS Keywords including Nigella sativa, black seed, thymoquinone, respiratory, pulmonary, lung and allergic diseases were searched in medical and nonmedical databases (i.e. PubMed, Science Direct, Scopus, and Google Scholar). Preclinical studies and clinical trials published between 1993 and 2018 were selected. RESULTS In experimental and clinical studies, antioxidant, immunomodulatory, anti-inflammatory, antihistaminic, antiallergic, antitussive and bronchodilatory properties of N. sativa different extracts, extracts fractions and constituents were demonstrated. Clinical studies also showed bronchodilatory and preventive properties of the plant in asthmatic patients. The extract of N. sativa showed a preventive effect on lung disorders caused by sulfur mustard exposure. The therapeutic effects of the plant and its constituents on various allergic disorders were also demonstrated. CONCLUSION Therefore, N. sativa and its constituents may be considered effective remedies for treatment of allergic and obstructive lung diseases as well as other respiratory diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zahra Gholamnezhad
- Neurogenic Inflammation Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran.,Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran.
| | - Farzaneh Shakeri
- Natural Products and Medicinal Plants Research Center, North Khorasan University of Medical Sciences, Bojnurd, Iran.
| | - Saeideh Saadat
- Neurogenic Inflammation Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran.,Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran.
| | - Vahideh Ghorani
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran.,Pharmaceutical Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran.
| | - Mohammad Hossein Boskabady
- Neurogenic Inflammation Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran.,Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran.,Corresponding Author: Tel: +985138828565, Fax: +985138828564, ,
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Majdalawieh AF, Fayyad MW, Nasrallah GK. Anti-cancer properties and mechanisms of action of thymoquinone, the major active ingredient of Nigella sativa. Crit Rev Food Sci Nutr 2018; 57:3911-3928. [PMID: 28140613 DOI: 10.1080/10408398.2016.1277971] [Citation(s) in RCA: 76] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Over the past two decades, studies have documented the wide-range anti-cancer effects of Nigella sativa, known as black seed or black cumin. Thymoquinone (TQ), its major active ingredient, has also been extensively studied and reported to possess potent anti-cancer properties. Herein, we provide a comprehensive review of the findings related to the anti-cancer activity of TQ. The review focuses on analyzing experimental studies performed using different in vitro and in vivo models to identify the anti-proliferative, pro-apoptotic, anti-oxidant, cytotoxic, anti-metastatic, and NK-dependent cytotoxic effects exerted by TQ. In addition, we pinpoint the molecular mechanisms underlying these effects and the signal transduction pathways implicated by TQ. Our analysis show that p53, NF-κB, PPARγ, STAT3, MAPK, and PI3K/AKT signaling pathways are among the most significant pathways through which TQ mediates its anti-cancer activity. Experimental findings and recent advances in the field highlight TQ as an effective therapeutic agent for the suppression of tumor development, growth and metastasis for a wide range of tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amin F Majdalawieh
- a Department of Biology, Chemistry and Environmental Sciences, College of Arts and Sciences , American University of Sharjah , Sharjah , United Arab Emirates
| | - Muneera W Fayyad
- a Department of Biology, Chemistry and Environmental Sciences, College of Arts and Sciences , American University of Sharjah , Sharjah , United Arab Emirates
| | - Gheyath K Nasrallah
- b Department of Biomedical Science, College of Health Sciences , Qatar University , Doha , Qatar.,c Biomedical Research Center , Qatar University , Doha , Qatar
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Poursalehi HR, Samareh Fekri M, Sharifi Far F, Mandegari A, Izadi A, Mahmoodi R, Nematollahi H, Porgholamhosein F, Ghorani V, Samareh Fekri M. Early and late preventive effect of Nigella sativa on the bleomycin-induced pulmonary fibrosis in rats: An experimental study. AVICENNA JOURNAL OF PHYTOMEDICINE 2018; 8:263-275. [PMID: 29881712 PMCID: PMC5987441] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Pulmonary fibhrosis is a disease of the connective tissues in the respiratory system. Nigella sativa has been used for the treatment of pulmonary diseases like asthma. This study investigated the early and late preventive effect of methanolic extract of N. sativa on a bleomycin- induced pulmonary fibrosis model. MATERIALS AND METHODS This study was carried out using 52 rats. Pulmonary fibrosis was induced by a single endotracheal injection of bleomycin (5 mg/kg). Extract of N. sativa (500 mg/kg per day) or methylprednisolone succinate (4 mg/kg per day) was injected intraperitoneally in two periods (i.e. days 1-14 as early preventive group and days 15-28 days as late preventive group). The lung tissues were histologically examined at the end of each period and inspected for the amount of hydroxyproline and biomarkers of oxidative stress. RESULTS The pulmonary inflammation and fibrosis were significantly decreased in groups treated with methylprednisolone and N. sativa extract compared to bleomycin group in both early and late prevention groups (p<0.001). The hydroxyproline concentration in pulmonary tissue was significantly decreased in N. sativa and methylprednisolone groups compared to the bleomycin group in both prevention groups (p<0.001). Significant reductions in lipid peroxidation (p<0.001) and increases in catalase activity were also observed in N. sativa and methylprednisolone groups compared to bleomycin group. CONCLUSION This study suggested that N. Sativa extract is effective for early and late prevention of pulmonary fibrosis and inflammation. However, more studies are needed to identify its anti-inflammatory and anti-fibrotic mechanisms in the respiratory system.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Mitra Samareh Fekri
- Cardiovascular Research Center, Institute of Basic and Clinical Physiology Sciences, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran,Corresponding Author: Tel: +98 3433238818, Fax:+98 3433238818, ,
| | - Fariba Sharifi Far
- Department of Pharmacognosy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Ali Mandegari
- Department of Toxicology and Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Kerman University of Medical Science, Kerman, Iran
| | - Atefe Izadi
- Department of Pharmacy, Kerman University of Medical Science, Kerman, Iran
| | - Rahil Mahmoodi
- Department of Pharmacy, Kerman University of Medical Science, Kerman, Iran
| | - Hadi Nematollahi
- Herbal & Traditional Medicines Research Center, Faculty of Pharmacy Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | | | - Vahideh Ghorani
- Neurogenic Inflammation Research Center and Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
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Ghorani V, Boskabady MH, Khazdair MR, Kianmeher M. Experimental animal models for COPD: a methodological review. Tob Induc Dis 2017; 15:25. [PMID: 28469539 PMCID: PMC5414171 DOI: 10.1186/s12971-017-0130-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 125] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2016] [Accepted: 04/19/2017] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a progressive disorder that makes the breathing difficult and is characterized by pathological conditions ranging from chronic inflammation to tissue proteolysis. With regard to ethical issues related to the studies on patients with COPD, the use of animal models of COPD is inevitable. Animal models improve our knowledge about the basic mechanisms underlying COPD physiology, pathophysiology and treatment. Although these models are only able to mimic some of the features of the disease, they are valuable for further investigation of mechanisms involved in human COPD. METHODS We searched the literature available in Google Scholar, PubMed and ScienceDirect databases for English articles published until November 2015. For this purpose, we used 5 keywords for COPD, 3 for animal models, 4 for exposure methods, 3 for pathophysiological changes and 3 for biomarkers. One hundred and fifty-one studies were considered eligible for inclusion in this review. RESULTS According to the reviewed articles, animal models of COPD are mainly induced in mice, guinea pigs and rats. In most of the studies, this model was induced by exposure to cigarette smoke (CS), intra-tracheal lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and intranasal elastase. There were variations in time course and dose of inducers used in different studies. The main measured parameters were lung pathological data and lung inflammation (both inflammatory cells and inflammatory mediators) in most of the studies and tracheal responsiveness (TR) in only few studies. CONCLUSION The present review provides various methods used for induction of animal models of COPD, different animals used (mainly mice, guinea pigs and rats) and measured parameters. The information provided in this review is valuable for choosing appropriate animal, method of induction and selecting parameters to be measured in studies concerning COPD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vahideh Ghorani
- Pharmaceutical Research Centre and Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Mohammad Hossein Boskabady
- Neurogenic Inflammation Research Centre and Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, 9177948564 Iran
| | - Mohammad Reza Khazdair
- Pharmaceutical Research Centre and Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Majid Kianmeher
- Neurogenic Inflammation Research Centre and Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, 9177948564 Iran
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Majdalawieh AF, Fayyad MW. Recent advances on the anti-cancer properties of Nigella sativa, a widely used food additive. J Ayurveda Integr Med 2016; 7:173-180. [PMID: 27649635 PMCID: PMC5052360 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaim.2016.07.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2016] [Revised: 07/18/2016] [Accepted: 07/27/2016] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The use of naturally-occurring agents to regulate tumorigenesis is on the rise. Several herbal extracts, pure plant-derived active constituents, and food additives have been reported to possess potent anti-cancer properties and cancer-ameliorating effects. The wide-range anti-cancer effects of Nigella sativa, also known as black seed or black cumin, have been extensively studied using different in vitro and in vivo models. Here, we provide a comprehensive, analytical review of the reported anti-cancer properties of N. sativa seed extracts. This review focuses on analyzing experimental findings related to the ability of N. sativa to exert anti-proliferative, pro-apoptotic, anti-oxidant, cytotoxic, anti-mutagenic, anti-metastatic, and NK cytotoxic activity enhancing effects against various primary cancer cells and cancer cell lines. Moreover, we underline the molecular mechanisms of action and the signal transduction pathways implicated in the suppression of tumorigenesis by N. sativa. The major signaling pathway utilized by N. sativa to manifest its anti-cancer activity is the iNOS signaling pathway. This review underscores the recent developments that highlight an effective therapeutic potential of N. sativa to suppress tumor development, reduce tumor incidence, and ameliorate carcinogenesis. In sum, experimental findings reported in the last two decades strongly suggest that N. sativa fractions could serve, alone or in combination with known chemotherapeutic drugs, as effective agents to control tumor initiation, growth, and metastasis, and hence, treatment of a wide range of cancers. N. sativa exerts cytotoxic, pro-apoptotic, anti-proliferative, anti-oxidant, anti-mutagenic, and anti-metastatic effects. Augmentation of NK cytotoxic activity is a one molecular mechanism by which N. sativa manifests its anti-cancer activity. The anti-cancer effects of N. sativa are primarily mediated via iNOS, p53, and caspase signaling pathways. N. sativa extracts can potentially be employed in the development of effective anti-cancer therapeutic agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amin F Majdalawieh
- Department of Biology, Chemistry and Environmental Sciences, College of Arts and Sciences, American University of Sharjah, Sharjah, P.O. Box 26666, United Arab Emirates.
| | - Muneera W Fayyad
- Department of Biology, Chemistry and Environmental Sciences, College of Arts and Sciences, American University of Sharjah, Sharjah, P.O. Box 26666, United Arab Emirates
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Beheshti F, Khazaei M, Hosseini M. Neuropharmacological effects of Nigella sativa. AVICENNA JOURNAL OF PHYTOMEDICINE 2016; 6:104-16. [PMID: 27247928 PMCID: PMC4884225] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Nigella sativa (NS) (Ranunculaceae family) is generally utilized as a therapeutic plant all over the world. The seeds of the plant have a long history of use in different frameworks of medicines and food. In Islamic literature, it is considered as one of the greatest forms of therapeutics. It has been widely used to treat nervous system diseases such as memory impairment, epilepsy, neurotoxicity, pain, etc. Additionally, this is uncovered that the majority of therapeutic properties of this plant are due to the presence of thymoquinone (TQ) which is a major bioactive component of the essential oil. Pharmacological studies have been done to evaluate the effects of NS on the central nervous system (CNS). The present review is an effort to provide a detailed scientific literature survey about pharmacological activities of the plant on nervous system. Our literature review showed that NS and its components can be considered as promising agents in the treatment of nervous system disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Farimah Beheshti
- Departments of Physiology, School of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Majid Khazaei
- Neurogenic Inflammation Research Center, School of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Mahmoud Hosseini
- Neurocognitive Research Center, School of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran,Corresponding Author: Tel: +98-51- 38828565, Fax: +98- 51- 38828565,
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Keyhanmanesh R, Saadat S, Mohammadi M, Shahbazfar AA, Fallahi M. The Protective Effect of α-Hederin, the Active Constituent of Nigella sativa, on Lung Inflammation and Blood Cytokines in Ovalbumin Sensitized Guinea Pigs. Phytother Res 2015; 29:1761-7. [PMID: 26292851 DOI: 10.1002/ptr.5429] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2015] [Revised: 07/16/2015] [Accepted: 07/17/2015] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
In the present study, the preventive effect of two different concentrations of α-hederin, the active constituent of Nigella sativa, on lung inflammation and blood cytokines in ovalbumin sensitized guinea pigs was examined. Forty eight male adult guinea pigs were divided into control (C), sensitized (S) and sensitized pretreated groups; with thymoquinone (S+TQ), low dose (S+LAH) and high dose of α-hederin (S+HAH) and inhaled fluticasone propionate (S+FP). The lung histopathology and blood levels of IL-4, IFN-γ and IL-17 were assessed. Compared to sensitized animals, all pathological changes improved significantly in pretreated groups (p < 0.001 to p < 0.05). These improvements in α-hederin pretreated groups were similar to S+TQ and S+FP groups except cellular infiltration in S+LAH and S+HAH groups which was lower than S+TQ group (p < 0.05). The blood IL-4 and IL-17 levels in S+HAH groups showed a significant decrease compared to S group (p < 0.05) which were similar to S+TQ and S+FP groups. The level of IFN-γ in S+LAH and S+HAH groups increased significantly compared to S group (p < 0.05) which was higher than S+FP group (p < 0.05). Blood IL-4 in S+HAH group was significantly lower than S+LAH group (p < 0.05). In conclusion, α-hederin could attenuate the lung inflammation and improve the changes of cytokines like thymoquinone and fluticasone in used dosages.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rana Keyhanmanesh
- Drug Applied Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Saeideh Saadat
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.,Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Zahedan University of Medical Sciences, Zahedan, Iran
| | - Mostafa Mohammadi
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Amir-Ali Shahbazfar
- Department of pathology, Faculty of veterinary medicine, University of Tabriz, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Maryam Fallahi
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
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Gholamnezhad Z, Keyhanmanesh R, Boskabady MH. Anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and immunomodulatory aspects of Nigella sativa for its preventive and bronchodilatory effects on obstructive respiratory diseases: A review of basic and clinical evidence. J Funct Foods 2015. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jff.2015.06.032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
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Majdalawieh AF, Fayyad MW. Immunomodulatory and anti-inflammatory action of Nigella sativa and thymoquinone: A comprehensive review. Int Immunopharmacol 2015; 28:295-304. [PMID: 26117430 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2015.06.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 110] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2015] [Revised: 06/17/2015] [Accepted: 06/22/2015] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Many herbal products are now used as remedies to treat various infectious and non-infectious conditions. Even though the use of herbs and natural products is much more evident in the Eastern world, their use in Western cultures is continuously increasing. Although the immunomodulatory effects of some herbs have been extensively studied, research related to possible immunomodulatory effects of many herbs and various spices is relatively scarce. Here, we provide a comprehensive review of the immunomodulatory and anti-inflammatory properties of Nigella sativa, also known as black seed or black cumin, and its major active ingredient, thymoquinone (TQ). This review article focuses on analyzing in vitro and in vivo experimental findings that were reported with regard to the ability of N. sativa and TQ to modulate inflammation, cellular and humoral adaptive immune responses, and Th1/Th2 paradigm. The reported capability of N. sativa to augment the cytotoxic activity of natural killer (NK) cells against cancer cells is also emphasized. The molecular and cellular mechanisms underlying such immunomodulatory and anti-inflammatory effects of N. sativa and TQ are highlighted. Moreover, the signal transduction pathways implicated in the immunoregulatory functions of N. sativa and TQ are underscored. Experimental evidence suggests that N. sativa extracts and TQ can potentially be employed in the development of effective therapeutic agents towards the regulation of immune reactions implicated in various infectious and non-infectious conditions including different types of allergy, autoimmunity, and cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amin F Majdalawieh
- Department of Biology, Chemistry and Environmental Sciences, College of Arts and Sciences, American University of Sharjah, Sharjah, P.O. Box 26666, United Arab Emirates.
| | - Muneera W Fayyad
- Department of Biology, Chemistry and Environmental Sciences, College of Arts and Sciences, American University of Sharjah, Sharjah, P.O. Box 26666, United Arab Emirates
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Saadat S, Mohammadi M, Fallahi M, keyhanmanesh R, Aslani MR. The protective effect of α-hederin, the active constituent of Nigella sativa, on tracheal responsiveness and lung inflammation in ovalbumin-sensitized guinea pigs. J Physiol Sci 2015; 65:285-92. [PMID: 25752254 PMCID: PMC10717629 DOI: 10.1007/s12576-015-0367-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2014] [Accepted: 02/13/2015] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
Many investigations have demonstrated the prophylactic effect of Nigella sativa on asthma disease. One of its active constituents is α-hederin. In the present study, the preventive effect of two different concentrations of α-hederin on tracheal responsiveness and lung inflammation in ovalbumin-sensitized guinea pigs was examined. Forty male adult Dunkin-Hartley guinea pigs were randomly divided into the control (C), sensitized (S) and sensitized pretreated groups with thymoquinone (3 mg/kg i.p., S + TQ), low-dose α-hederin (0.3 mg/kg i.p., S + LAH) and high-dose α-hederin (3 mg/kg i.p., S + HAH). The responsiveness of tracheal smooth muscle (TR) to methacholine, histamine and ovalbumin was assessed. Moreover, total and differential white blood cell counts in lung lavage fluid were examined. Compared with the S group, the mean EC50 value in the S + LAH group increased significantly (p < 0.05). The mean EC50 value of histamine contraction in the S + LAH and S + HAH groups was significantly higher than in the S group (p < 0.05). In all pretreated groups, the TR to ovalbumin decreased in comparison to the S group (p < 0.001). Both the S + HAH and S + LAH groups showed significantly decreased TR compared to the S + TQ group (p < 0.01-p < 0.01). Total WBC and eosinophil counts in all pretreated groups decreased significantly in comparison with the S group (0.001-0.01). There was a significant increase in neutrophil, lymphocyte and monocyte counts in the pretreated groups compared to the S group (p < 0.001-p < 0.05). The basophil count in the S + TQ and S + HAH groups was significantly lower than in the S group (p < 0.01-p < 0.05). This study suggested that α-hederin has anti-inflammatory and bronchodilatory effects like thymoquinone.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saeideh Saadat
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Zahedan University of Medical Sciences, Zahedan, Iran
| | - Mostafa Mohammadi
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Maryam Fallahi
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Rana keyhanmanesh
- Drug Applied Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Mohammad Reza Aslani
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
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Keyhanmanesh R, Gholamnezhad Z, Boskabady MH. The relaxant effect of Nigella sativa on smooth muscles, its possible mechanisms and clinical applications. IRANIAN JOURNAL OF BASIC MEDICAL SCIENCES 2014; 17:939-49. [PMID: 25859297 PMCID: PMC4387229] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2014] [Accepted: 11/20/2014] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
Nigella sativa (N. sativa) is a spice plant which has been traditionally used for culinary and medicinal purposes. Different therapeutic properties including the beneficial effects on asthma and dyspnea, digestive and gynecology disorders have been described for the seeds of N. sativa. There is evidence of the relaxant effects of this plant and some of its constituents on different types of smooth muscle including rabbit aorta, rabbit jejunum and trachea. The relaxant effect of N. sativa could be of therapeutic importance such as bronchodilation in asthma, vasodilation in hypertension and therapeutic effect on digestive or urogenital disorders. Therefore in the present article, the relaxant effects of N. sativa and its constituents on smooth muscles and its possible mechanisms as well as clinical application of this effect were reviewed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rana Keyhanmanesh
- Tuberculosis and Lung Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Zahra Gholamnezhad
- Neurogenic Inflammation Research Centre and Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Mohammad Hossien Boskabady
- Neurogenic Inflammation Research Centre and Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran,*Corresponding author: Mohammad Hossien Boskabady, Neurogenic Inflammation Research Centre and Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, Mashhad, Post Code 9177948564, Iran. Tel : 098 511 8828565; Fax 0098 511 8828564; ,
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