Flavonoids Fraction of Mespilus Germanica Alleviates Insulin Resistance in Metabolic Syndrome Model of Ovariectomized Rats via Reduction in Tumor Necrosis Factor-α

In silico molecular docking and predictive ADME properties, in vitro antioxidant scavenging capacities, and in vivo pharmacological activities to study the potential of Pterocarpus mildbraedii's Harms (Fabaceae) in preventing vaginal dysbiosis and risk factors for cardiovascular disease in an estropause rat model

Vaginal dysbiosis (VaD) is a common issue among menopausal women, who are particularly susceptible to cardiovascular disease (CVD). Pterocarpus sp. are known to induce estrogen-like activities, which are the key pathways for menopause-related disorders. This study aims to evaluate the potential of Pterocarpus mildbraedii water extract on VaD and CVD risk factors using an estropause (EP) rat model. Furthermore, predictive ADME properties and molecular docking with target proteins were assessed to develop alternative medicinal treatments for menopause. The secondary metabolites in P. mildbraedii water extract (Pm) were analyzed using UHPLC-MS and quantitative phytochemistry methods. The extract's ability to scavenge free radicals was evaluated using DPPH, ABTS, and FRAP tests. Molecular docking assessed the extract's binding ability to various receptors. SwissADME and Molinspiration were utilized to predict its pharmacokinetic and bioactivity properties. Subsequently, the therapeutic potential of Pm was assessed in rats, focusing on its estrogen-like, eubiotic, and cardioprotective activities. UHPLC-MS enables us to identify several compounds. Predictive ADME analyses have indicated that most compounds comply with Lipinski's Rule of Five for oral drugs. Additionally, they inhibit CYP1A2 and bind to several receptors and enzymes through conventional hydrogen bonding. In rats, ovariectomy-induced EP reduced glycogen levels and vaginal lactic acid and decreased in the population of Lactobacillus spp., which is characteristic of VaD. This condition also increases CVD risk factors. Overall, this study underscores the potential of Pterocarpus mildbraedii in preventing VaD and CVD risk factors related to hypoestrogenism. This extract positions itself as a promising alternative treatment for menopause-related disorders.

Utilizing a Combination of Supplements Comprising Boric Acid, Magnesium, Vitamin D3, and Extra Virgin Olive Oil to Improve Metabolism in Menopausal Ovariectomized Rats

Metabolic syndrome during menopause can lead to diabetes, cardiovascular problems, and increased mortality rates. Hormone replacement therapy is recommended to manage climacteric complications, but it has serious adverse effects. This study, therefore, investigated the potential of supplementing some minerals, vitamins, and natural products like boric acid, magnesium, vitamin D3, and extra virgin olive oil on metabolic status of menopausal ovariectomized rats. Fourty-two female adult rats were randomly assigned to seven groups: a) Sham Control, b) Ovariectomized Control, c) Ovariectomized + Boric acid, d) Ovariectomized + Magnesium, e) Ovariectomized + Vitamin D3, f) Ovariectomized + Extra virgin olive oil, and g) Ovariectomized + Combined treatment groups. Serum inflammatory and oxidative stress markers, serum lipogram pattern, hepatic triglycerides, body weight, fasting blood glucose, serum insulin, leptin, and adiponectin, as well as hepatic insulin signaling cascade, IRS1/pAKT/GLUT4 were measured in each group to assess metabolic function. Results revealed a significant improvement in inflammation, oxidative stress, and metabolic parameters by individual and concomitant treating ovariectomized rats with boric acid, magnesium, vitamin D3, and extra virgin olive oil. Interestingly, the concurrent use of these supplements displayed a better impact than individual use, suggesting their valuable therapeutic potential for managing metabolic syndrome in menopausal women. However, the necessity of all four supplements for optimal therapeutic effects remains unsubstantiated.

Phytochemistry, nutritional composition, health benefits and future prospects of Mespilus germanica L. (Medlar): A review

Mespilus germanica L., commonly known as medlar, is one of two species of the Rosaceae family. The medlar plant has a long history of use in gastronomy and healthcare. Medlar waste is used to extract hazardous heavy metals from contaminated water. The nutritional value of M. germanica fruits comes from their composition of carbohydrates, carotenoids, amino acids, organic acids, proteins, vitamins, fatty acids, and vital components. M. germanica fruit contains a high concentration of important phenolic components, which contribute to its anti-diabetic and antioxidant properties. Additionally, several studies have identified diverse biological properties of the M. germanica plant, including the cytotoxic, neurodegenerative, and antibacterial properties of its fruits and leaves. Scientists are investigating underutilized plant species to address sustainability issues in food production. This review study will provide a comprehensive examination of its chemical composition, medical applications, plant waste utilization, and potential biological activities.

Metabotropic Effect of Probiotic Supplementation and High-Intensity Interval Training in Menopause-Induced Metabolic Syndrome in Rats

OBJECTIVES

This study aimed to investigate the interactive effect of supplementation with a native potential probiotic lactobacillus and 8-week high-intensity interval training (HIIT) on insulin resistance and dyslipidemia in a menopause-induced metabolic syndrome.

METHODS

A total of 40 ovariectomized (OVX) Wistar rats were divided into five groups: control (OVX + Vehicle), exercise (EXE) (OVX + Exe), probiotic (Prob) (OVX + Prob), exercise and probiotic (OVX + Exe + Prob), and sham surgery. After the end of the treatment interventions, body weight, body mass index (BMI), waist circumference (WC), visceral fat, and serum concentrations of glucose, insulin, lipid profile, and adiponectin were measured using colorimetric analysis and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, respectively.

RESULTS

Data revealed a significant decrease in weight, waist circumference , visceral fat, BMI, and levels of glucose, insulin, homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance, triacylglyceride, total cholesterol, and low-density lipoprotein (LDL), but an increase in high-density lipoprotein and adiponectin levels (P = 0.001), in OVX + Exe + Prob compared with the OVX + Vehicle group.

CONCLUSIONS

The present study indicates that native probiotic lactobacillus combined with HIIT effectively reduces body weight, visceral fat, and levels of LDL, glucose, and insulin and increases adiponectin level, although exercise contributes more to fat reduction and probiotics to insulin resistance.

Exercise training modulates adipokine dysregulations in metabolic syndrome

Metabolic syndrome (MetS) is a cluster of risk factors for various metabolic diseases, and it is characterized by central obesity, dyslipidemia, hypertension, and insulin resistance. The core component for MetS is adipose tissue, which releases adipokines and influences physical health. Adipokines consist of pro and anti-inflammatory cytokines and contribute to various physiological functions. Generally, a sedentary lifestyle promotes fat accumulation and secretion of pro-inflammatory adipokines. However, regular exercise has been known to exert various beneficial effects on metabolic and cognitive disorders. Although the mechanisms underlying exercise beneficial effects in MetS are not fully understood, changes in energy expenditure, fat accumulation, circulatory level of myokines, and adipokines might be involved. This review article focuses on some of the selected adipokines in MetS, and their responses to exercise training considering possible mechanisms.

Exercise Training Improves Memory Performance in Older Adults: A Narrative Review of Evidence and Possible Mechanisms

As human life expectancy increases, cognitive decline and memory impairment threaten independence and quality of life. Therefore, finding prevention and treatment strategies for memory impairment is an important health concern. Moreover, a better understanding of the mechanisms involved underlying memory preservation will enable the development of appropriate pharmaceuticals drugs for those who are activity limited. Exercise training as a non-pharmacological tool, has been known to increase the mean lifespan by maintaining general body health and improving the cardiovascular and nervous systems function. Among different exercise training protocols, aerobic exercise has been reported to prevent the progression of memory decline, provided adequate exertion level, duration, and frequency. Mechanisms underlying exercise training effects on memory performance have not been understood yet. Convergent evidence suggest several direct and indirect mechanisms at molecular and supramolecular levels. The supramolecular level includes improvement in blood circulation, synaptic plasticity and neurogenesis which are under controls of complex molecular signaling of neurotransmitters, neurotrophic factors, exerkines, and epigenetics factors. Among these various factors, irisin/BDNF signaling seems to be one of the important mediators of crosstalk between contracted skeletal muscles and the brain during exercise training. This review provides an affordable and effective method to improve cognitive function in old ages, particularly those who are most vulnerable to neurodegenerative disorders.

Estrogenic and Antioxidant Activities of Pterocarpus soyauxii (Fabaceae) Heartwood Aqueous Extract in Bilateral Oophorectomized Wistar Rat

Phytoestrogens are used to ease postmenopausal symptoms, a property probably due to estrogenic and antioxidant effects. Pterocarpus soyauxii (P. soyauxii) is empirically used in Cameroon to treat among others primary and secondary amenorrhea. The aim of this study is to evaluate estrogenic and antioxidant activities of P. soyauxii heartwood aqueous extract in bilateral oophorectomized Wistar rats. Firstly, a characterization of the extract was carried out. For that, flavonoids, phenols, and tannins levels in P. soyauxii extract were evaluated by colorimetric assays and UHPLC-MS analysis was realized. In vitro antioxidant analysis of P. soyauxii was conducted using DPPH, ABTS, and FRAP assays. Secondly, 2 sets of pharmacologic tests were carried out. The results revealed that P. soyauxii aqueous extract contains, respectively, 229.42 ± 3.62 mg EAG/g, 63.42 ± 2.16 mg EQ/g, and 27.88 ± 0.23 mg ETA/g of polyphenols, flavonoids, and tannins. UHPLC-MS enabled identifying seven components including mono(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate, cembrene, 3′,5′-dimethoxy-4-stilbenol, and linoleic acid. DPPH, ABTS, and FRAP assays revealed that P. soyauxii extract possessed a high antioxidant activity with IC₅₀ value of 730.20 µg/mL, 892.90 µg/mL, and 765.75 mEAG/g of extract, respectively. In the uterotrophic assay, P. soyauxii extract induced significant increase of fresh uterine weight, uterine and vaginal epithelial size, and mammary glands differentiation compared to Ovx control. In the postmenopausal model, compared to the sham control, vagina and uterine dystrophies were observed in Ovx rats treated with distilled water. P. soyauxii aqueous extract expressed estrogenic-like effects on vagina and did not affect uterine epithelial height compared with vehicle groups. On the back of these vaginotrophic effects, the extract displayed antiatherogenic properties by reducing (p < 0.001) AI and LDL cholesterol level as compared to Ovx control group. The extract at 200 mg/kg significantly prevented the increase of MDA (p < 0.01) level and decreased nitrites (p < 0.001) and GSH (p < 0.01) levels compared to Ovx rats. These beneficial effects are related at least in part to the presence of compound such as mono(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate, 3′,5′-dimethoxy-4-stilbenol, and linoleic acid. Overall, P. soyauxii aqueous extract exhibits estrogenic and antioxidant effects which can inhibit postmenopausal symptoms by providing vaginal stratification, improving lipid profile and insulin sensitivity, and reducing oxidative stress without side effects on the endometrium and mammary gland in 84-day Ovx rats.

Effect of Aglycon and Glycoside Flavonoid-Enriched Extracts Obtained from Buxus sempervirens L. on Glucose and Lipid Metabolism in Diabetic Rats

BACKGROUND

Buxus sempervirens L. is a medicinal plant with several beneficial effects on health and is widely used in Moroccan folklore as an antidiabetic plant.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to evaluate the antidiabetic effect of both aglycone and glycoside flavonoid enriched extracts of this plant in the experimental diabetic state.

METHODS

In the current work, the effect of aglycone and glycoside flavonoid-enriched extracts from the leaves of Buxus sempervirens L. (AFBS and GFBS) (10 mg/kg) on blood glucose levels has been evaluated in normal and streptozotocin (STZ) diabetic rats. Moreover, the histopathological changes in the liver and pancreas have been assessed in STZ diabetic rats. The ability of AFBS and GFBS to improve glucose tolerance in normal rats was also evaluated.

RESULTS

In normal rats, both a single and repeated administration of AFBS and GFBS (10 mg/kg) showed no significant effects on blood glucose levels. However, both single and repeated oral administration of the two fractions showed a significant blood glucose lowering effect (p<0.0001) in STZ rats. In addition, histopathological analysis has demonstrated the beneficial impact of AFBS and GFBS on the pancreas and liver. Whereas, the oral glucose tolerance test demonstrated no significant ability of these extracts to improve the increase in blood glucose levels in normal and diabetic treated rats. In the current study, no significant changes in body weight in normal and STZ rats have been shown. In addition, the antioxidant activity of both AFBS and GFBS revealed the antioxidant effect of both extracts. Furthermore, both flavonoid-enriched fractions had no significant effect on blood lipid levels.

CONCLUSION

In conclusion, AFBS and GFBS exhibited an interesting antidiabetic effect on streptozotocin rats and GFBS which seems to be more effective than AFBS.