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Mallamaci R, Conforti F, Statti G, Avato P, Barbarossa A, Meleleo D. Phenolic Compounds from Tropea Red Onion as Dietary Agents for Protection against Heavy Metals Toxicity. Life (Basel) 2024; 14:495. [PMID: 38672765 PMCID: PMC11051521 DOI: 10.3390/life14040495] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2024] [Revised: 04/06/2024] [Accepted: 04/10/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
The present study aims to highlight the cell protective effect of Tropea red onion (TRO) hydroalcoholic extract and some of its components against "non-essential" heavy metals. For this purpose, the cytoprotective roles of cyanidin, cyanidin-3-O-glucoside and quercetin against Cd, Hg and Pb and of TRO extract against Hg and Pb have been investigated, and data are reported here. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first detailed evaluation of the protective effect against cell damage induced by "non-essential" heavy metals through the simultaneous administration of cyanidin, cyanidin-3-O-glucoside and quercetin with CdCl2, HgCl2 or PbCl2 and the TRO extract against HgCl2 and PbCl2. Present data are also compared with our previous results from the TRO extract against Cd. The antioxidant capacity of the extract was also determined by the ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) and the bovine brain peroxidation assay. Both of the assays indicated a good antioxidant capacity of the extract. Cell viability and the impact on necrotic cell death were examined by the MTT (3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide) test and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) release assay. After 24 h of exposure, Caco-2 cell viability decreased by approximately 50% at 0.25 μM for Cd, Hg and Pb and, after 72 h, the ranking order of "non-essential" heavy metal toxicity on cell viability was PbCl2 > CdCl2 > HgCl2. Cell viability was assessed by treating the cells with the biomolecules at doses of 25, 50 and 100 µg/mL for 24 and 72 h. The same analysis was carried out on Caco-2 cells treated with combinations of TRO extract, cyanidin, cyanidin-3-O-glucoside, or quercetin and "non-essential" heavy metals. Treatments with the bioactive metabolites did not significantly improve cell viability. The identical treatment of Caco-2 cells produced instead LDH release, suggesting a decrease in cell viability. Consistently with the finding that TRO extract showed a good antioxidant activity, we suggest that its higher cytotoxicity, compared to that of the individual assayed phytochemicals, may be derived by the combined antioxidant and chelating properties of all the molecules present in the extract. Therefore, from all the acquired experimental evidence, it appears that the TRO extract may be a better promising protective agent against the toxic effect of Cd, Hg and Pb compared to its bioactive metabolites.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rosanna Mallamaci
- Department of Biosciences, Biotechnologies and Environment, University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, 70125 Bari, Italy
| | - Filomena Conforti
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria-DFSSN, 87036 Rende, Italy;
| | - Giancarlo Statti
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria-DFSSN, 87036 Rende, Italy;
| | - Pinarosa Avato
- Department of Pharmacy-Drug Sciences, University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, 70125 Bari, Italy; (P.A.); (A.B.)
| | - Alexia Barbarossa
- Department of Pharmacy-Drug Sciences, University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, 70125 Bari, Italy; (P.A.); (A.B.)
| | - Daniela Meleleo
- Department of Science of Agriculture, Food, Natural Resources and Engineering, University of Foggia, 71122 Foggia, Italy;
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Caminiti R, Serra M, Nucera S, Ruga S, Oppedisano F, Scarano F, Macrì R, Muscoli C, Palma E, Musolino V, Statti G, Mollace V, Maiuolo J. Antioxidant Activity and Seasonal Variations in the Composition of Insoluble Fiber from the Cladodes of Opuntia ficus-indica (L.) Miller: Development of New Extraction Procedures to Improve Fiber Yield. Plants (Basel) 2024; 13:544. [PMID: 38498558 PMCID: PMC10892137 DOI: 10.3390/plants13040544] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2024] [Revised: 02/05/2024] [Accepted: 02/13/2024] [Indexed: 03/20/2024]
Abstract
Opuntia ficus-indica (L.) Miller is a plant belonging to the Cactaceae family adapted to live in environments characterized by long periods of drought and arid or desert climates. This plant is characterized by an aerial part composed of structures transformed by branches, called "cladodes", which are essential to reduce excessive perspiration of water and appear covered with thorns. The composition of the cladodes includes water, polysaccharides, fiber, proteins, vitamins, fatty acids, sterols, polyphenols, and minerals. The main purposes of this scientific work are (a) to compare the insoluble fiber (IF) extracted from the cladodes of O. ficus-indica belonging to the same plant but collected in different seasonal periods (winter and summer) and develop new extraction protocols that are able to improve the yield obtained and (b) evaluate the antioxidant potential of the fiber and study possible variations as a result of the extraction protocol chosen. The first objective was achieved (1) by measuring the amount of IF extracted from cladodes harvested in winter and summer (CW and CS, respectively) and (2) by modifying three variables involved in the fiber extraction protocol. To achieve the second objective, the following experiments were carried out: (1) measurement of the antioxidant potential of IF in CW and CS; (2) measurement of cellular reactive oxygen species; (3) measurement of the activity of some antioxidant enzymes; and (4) comparison of the polyphenol content in CW and CS. In conclusion, the results obtained showed that the IF extraction process can be improved, achieving a uniform yield regardless of seasonality; the antioxidant effect may vary depending on the extraction protocol.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rosamaria Caminiti
- IRC-FSH Center, Department of Health Sciences, University “Magna Græcia” of Catanzaro, Germaneto, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy; (R.C.); (M.S.); (S.R.); (F.O.); (F.S.); (R.M.); (E.P.); (V.M.)
| | - Maria Serra
- IRC-FSH Center, Department of Health Sciences, University “Magna Græcia” of Catanzaro, Germaneto, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy; (R.C.); (M.S.); (S.R.); (F.O.); (F.S.); (R.M.); (E.P.); (V.M.)
| | - Saverio Nucera
- IRC-FSH Center, Department of Health Sciences, University “Magna Græcia” of Catanzaro, Germaneto, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy; (R.C.); (M.S.); (S.R.); (F.O.); (F.S.); (R.M.); (E.P.); (V.M.)
| | - Stefano Ruga
- IRC-FSH Center, Department of Health Sciences, University “Magna Græcia” of Catanzaro, Germaneto, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy; (R.C.); (M.S.); (S.R.); (F.O.); (F.S.); (R.M.); (E.P.); (V.M.)
| | - Francesca Oppedisano
- IRC-FSH Center, Department of Health Sciences, University “Magna Græcia” of Catanzaro, Germaneto, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy; (R.C.); (M.S.); (S.R.); (F.O.); (F.S.); (R.M.); (E.P.); (V.M.)
| | - Federica Scarano
- IRC-FSH Center, Department of Health Sciences, University “Magna Græcia” of Catanzaro, Germaneto, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy; (R.C.); (M.S.); (S.R.); (F.O.); (F.S.); (R.M.); (E.P.); (V.M.)
| | - Roberta Macrì
- IRC-FSH Center, Department of Health Sciences, University “Magna Græcia” of Catanzaro, Germaneto, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy; (R.C.); (M.S.); (S.R.); (F.O.); (F.S.); (R.M.); (E.P.); (V.M.)
| | - Carolina Muscoli
- IRC-FSH Center, Department of Health Sciences, University “Magna Græcia” of Catanzaro, Germaneto, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy; (R.C.); (M.S.); (S.R.); (F.O.); (F.S.); (R.M.); (E.P.); (V.M.)
| | - Ernesto Palma
- IRC-FSH Center, Department of Health Sciences, University “Magna Græcia” of Catanzaro, Germaneto, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy; (R.C.); (M.S.); (S.R.); (F.O.); (F.S.); (R.M.); (E.P.); (V.M.)
- Veterinary Pharmacology Laboratory, Institute of Research for Food Safety and Health (IRC-FSH), Department of Health Sciences, University “Magna Græcia” of Catanzaro, Germaneto, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Vincenzo Musolino
- Laboratoy of Pharmaceutical Biology, IRC-FSH Center, Department of Health Sciences, University “Magna Græcia” of Catanzaro, Germaneto, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy;
| | - Giancarlo Statti
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, 87100 Cosenza, Italy;
| | - Vincenzo Mollace
- IRC-FSH Center, Department of Health Sciences, University “Magna Græcia” of Catanzaro, Germaneto, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy; (R.C.); (M.S.); (S.R.); (F.O.); (F.S.); (R.M.); (E.P.); (V.M.)
- Fondazione R. Dulbecco, 88046 Lamezia Terme, Italy
| | - Jessica Maiuolo
- Laboratoy of Pharmaceutical Biology, IRC-FSH Center, Department of Health Sciences, University “Magna Græcia” of Catanzaro, Germaneto, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy;
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Bava R, Lupia C, Castagna F, Ruga S, Nucera S, Caminiti R, Bulotta RM, Naccari C, Carresi C, Musolino V, Statti G, Britti D, Mollace V, Palma E. Bergamot Polyphenolic Fraction for the Control of Flupyradifurone-Induced Poisoning in Honeybees. Animals (Basel) 2024; 14:608. [PMID: 38396576 PMCID: PMC10886160 DOI: 10.3390/ani14040608] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2024] [Revised: 02/10/2024] [Accepted: 02/11/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Flupyradifurone (FLU) is a butenolide insecticide that has come onto the market relatively recently. It is used in agriculture to control aphids, psyllids, and whiteflies. Toxicity studies have decreed its low toxicity to honeybees. However, recent research has challenged these claims; oral exposure to the pesticide can lead to behavioral abnormalities and in the worst cases, lethal phenomena. Compounds with antioxidant activity, such as flavonoids and polyphenols, have been shown to protect against the toxic effects of pesticides. The aim of this research was to evaluate the possible protective effect of the bergamot polyphenolic fraction (BPF) against behavioral abnormalities and lethality induced by toxic doses of FLU orally administered to honeybees under laboratory conditions. Honeybees were assigned to experimental groups in which two toxic doses of FLU, 50 mg/L and 100 mg/L were administered. In other replicates, three doses (1, 2 and 5 mg/kg) of the bergamot polyphenolic fraction (BPF) were added to the above toxic doses. In the experimental groups intoxicated with FLU at the highest dose tested, all caged subjects (20 individuals) died within the second day of administration. The survival probability of the groups to which the BPF was added was compared to that of the groups to which only the toxic doses of FLU were administered. The mortality rate in the BPF groups was statistically lower (p < 0.05) than in the intoxicated groups; in addition, a lower percentage of individuals exhibited behavioral abnormalities. According to this research, the ingestion of the BPF attenuates the harmful effects of FLU. Further studies are needed before proposing BPF incorporation into the honeybees' diet, but there already seem to be beneficial effects associated with its intake.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roberto Bava
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Catanzaro Magna Græcia, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy; (R.B.); (C.L.); (S.R.); (S.N.); (R.C.); (R.M.B.); (C.N.); (C.C.); (V.M.); (D.B.); (V.M.); (E.P.)
| | - Carmine Lupia
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Catanzaro Magna Græcia, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy; (R.B.); (C.L.); (S.R.); (S.N.); (R.C.); (R.M.B.); (C.N.); (C.C.); (V.M.); (D.B.); (V.M.); (E.P.)
- Mediterranean Ethnobotanical Conservatory, 88054 Sersale, Italy
| | - Fabio Castagna
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Catanzaro Magna Græcia, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy; (R.B.); (C.L.); (S.R.); (S.N.); (R.C.); (R.M.B.); (C.N.); (C.C.); (V.M.); (D.B.); (V.M.); (E.P.)
- Mediterranean Ethnobotanical Conservatory, 88054 Sersale, Italy
| | - Stefano Ruga
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Catanzaro Magna Græcia, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy; (R.B.); (C.L.); (S.R.); (S.N.); (R.C.); (R.M.B.); (C.N.); (C.C.); (V.M.); (D.B.); (V.M.); (E.P.)
| | - Saverio Nucera
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Catanzaro Magna Græcia, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy; (R.B.); (C.L.); (S.R.); (S.N.); (R.C.); (R.M.B.); (C.N.); (C.C.); (V.M.); (D.B.); (V.M.); (E.P.)
| | - Rosamaria Caminiti
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Catanzaro Magna Græcia, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy; (R.B.); (C.L.); (S.R.); (S.N.); (R.C.); (R.M.B.); (C.N.); (C.C.); (V.M.); (D.B.); (V.M.); (E.P.)
| | - Rosa Maria Bulotta
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Catanzaro Magna Græcia, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy; (R.B.); (C.L.); (S.R.); (S.N.); (R.C.); (R.M.B.); (C.N.); (C.C.); (V.M.); (D.B.); (V.M.); (E.P.)
| | - Clara Naccari
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Catanzaro Magna Græcia, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy; (R.B.); (C.L.); (S.R.); (S.N.); (R.C.); (R.M.B.); (C.N.); (C.C.); (V.M.); (D.B.); (V.M.); (E.P.)
| | - Cristina Carresi
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Catanzaro Magna Græcia, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy; (R.B.); (C.L.); (S.R.); (S.N.); (R.C.); (R.M.B.); (C.N.); (C.C.); (V.M.); (D.B.); (V.M.); (E.P.)
| | - Vincenzo Musolino
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Catanzaro Magna Græcia, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy; (R.B.); (C.L.); (S.R.); (S.N.); (R.C.); (R.M.B.); (C.N.); (C.C.); (V.M.); (D.B.); (V.M.); (E.P.)
| | - Giancarlo Statti
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, 87036 Rende, Italy;
| | - Domenico Britti
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Catanzaro Magna Græcia, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy; (R.B.); (C.L.); (S.R.); (S.N.); (R.C.); (R.M.B.); (C.N.); (C.C.); (V.M.); (D.B.); (V.M.); (E.P.)
| | - Vincenzo Mollace
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Catanzaro Magna Græcia, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy; (R.B.); (C.L.); (S.R.); (S.N.); (R.C.); (R.M.B.); (C.N.); (C.C.); (V.M.); (D.B.); (V.M.); (E.P.)
- Center for Pharmacological Research, Food Safety, High Tech and Health (IRC-FSH), University of Catanzaro Magna Græcia, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Ernesto Palma
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Catanzaro Magna Græcia, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy; (R.B.); (C.L.); (S.R.); (S.N.); (R.C.); (R.M.B.); (C.N.); (C.C.); (V.M.); (D.B.); (V.M.); (E.P.)
- Center for Pharmacological Research, Food Safety, High Tech and Health (IRC-FSH), University of Catanzaro Magna Græcia, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy
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Lupia C, Castagna F, Bava R, Naturale MD, Zicarelli L, Marrelli M, Statti G, Tilocca B, Roncada P, Britti D, Palma E. Use of Essential Oils to Counteract the Phenomena of Antimicrobial Resistance in Livestock Species. Antibiotics (Basel) 2024; 13:163. [PMID: 38391549 PMCID: PMC10885947 DOI: 10.3390/antibiotics13020163] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2024] [Revised: 01/31/2024] [Accepted: 02/05/2024] [Indexed: 02/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Antimicrobial resistance is an increasingly widespread phenomenon that is of particular concern because of the possible consequences in the years to come. The dynamics leading to the resistance of microbial strains are diverse, but certainly include the incorrect use of veterinary drugs both in terms of dosage and timing of administration. Moreover, the drug is often administered in the absence of a diagnosis. Many active ingredients in pharmaceutical formulations are, therefore, losing their efficacy. In this situation, it is imperative to seek alternative treatment solutions. Essential oils are mixtures of compounds with different pharmacological properties. They have been shown to possess the antibacterial, anti-parasitic, antiviral, and regulatory properties of numerous metabolic processes. The abundance of molecules they contain makes it difficult for treated microbial species to develop pharmacological resistance. Given their natural origin, they are environmentally friendly and show little or no toxicity to higher animals. There are several published studies on the use of essential oils as antimicrobials, but the present literature has not been adequately summarized in a manuscript. This review aims to shed light on the results achieved by the scientific community regarding the use of essential oils to treat the main agents of bacterial infection of veterinary interest in livestock. The Google Scholar, PubMed, SciELO, and SCOPUS databases were used for the search and selection of studies. The manuscript aims to lay the foundations for a new strategy of veterinary drug use that is more environmentally friendly and less prone to the emergence of drug resistance phenomena.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carmine Lupia
- Mediterranean Ethnobotanical Conservatory, Sersale (CZ), 88054 Catanzaro, Italy
- National Ethnobotanical Conservatory, Castelluccio Superiore, 85040 Potenza, Italy
| | - Fabio Castagna
- Mediterranean Ethnobotanical Conservatory, Sersale (CZ), 88054 Catanzaro, Italy
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Catanzaro Magna Græcia, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Roberto Bava
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Catanzaro Magna Græcia, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Maria Diana Naturale
- Ministry of Health, Directorate General for Health Programming, 00144 Rome, Italy
| | - Ludovica Zicarelli
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, Rende, 87036 Cosenza, Italy
| | - Mariangela Marrelli
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, Rende, 87036 Cosenza, Italy
| | - Giancarlo Statti
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, Rende, 87036 Cosenza, Italy
| | - Bruno Tilocca
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Catanzaro Magna Græcia, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Paola Roncada
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Catanzaro Magna Græcia, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Domenico Britti
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Catanzaro Magna Græcia, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Ernesto Palma
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Catanzaro Magna Græcia, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy
- Center for Pharmacological Research, Food Safety, High Tech and Health (IRC-FSH), University of Catanzaro Magna Græcia, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy
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Grande F, Marrelli M, Amodeo V, Occhiuzzi MA, Pinzaru I, Fucile M, Dehelean CA, Alexa E, Conforti F, Statti G. Molecular Docking Studies and In Vitro Activity of Paliurus spina-christi Mill Extracts as Pancreatic Lipase Inhibitors. Antioxidants (Basel) 2024; 13:160. [PMID: 38397758 PMCID: PMC10885981 DOI: 10.3390/antiox13020160] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2023] [Revised: 01/18/2024] [Accepted: 01/24/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Obesity is a risk factor for the onset of chronic diseases. One of the most promising approaches to treating obesity consists of reducing dietary fat absorption using extracts from plants because they contain phenolic compounds, especially flavonoids. Paliurus spina-christi, belonging to the Rhamnaceae family, is one of the five species belonging to the Paliurus genus. Herein, the aerial parts of the plant were extracted with methanol through the pressurized cyclic solid-liquid extraction using the Naviglio extractor®. The extracts were analyzed with High Performance Thin Layer Chromatography and investigated for their in vitro biological potential. The phytochemical analysis revealed that rutin has been shown to be the most abundant flavonoid component. The best antiradical activity was observed for the fruit extract with an IC50 value of 53.41 ± 1.24 µg/mL. This extract also has a better inhibitory capacity on lipid peroxidation evaluated at a different time of incubation. Potent lipase inhibitor activity of the extract from fruits was also demonstrated with in vitro experiments. This property can be attributed to a direct interaction of main components of P. spina-christi extract with the human pancreatic enzyme as demonstrated by the results of molecular docking experiments conducted on the crystallographic structures of lipase.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fedora Grande
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, 87036 Rende, Cosenza, Italy; (F.G.); (M.M.); (V.A.); (M.A.O.); (M.F.); (G.S.)
| | - Mariangela Marrelli
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, 87036 Rende, Cosenza, Italy; (F.G.); (M.M.); (V.A.); (M.A.O.); (M.F.); (G.S.)
| | - Valentina Amodeo
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, 87036 Rende, Cosenza, Italy; (F.G.); (M.M.); (V.A.); (M.A.O.); (M.F.); (G.S.)
| | - Maria Antonietta Occhiuzzi
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, 87036 Rende, Cosenza, Italy; (F.G.); (M.M.); (V.A.); (M.A.O.); (M.F.); (G.S.)
| | - Iulia Pinzaru
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Victor Babes University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 2nd Eftimie Murgu Sq., 300041 Timisoara, Romania; (I.P.); (C.A.D.)
| | - Mary Fucile
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, 87036 Rende, Cosenza, Italy; (F.G.); (M.M.); (V.A.); (M.A.O.); (M.F.); (G.S.)
| | - Cristina Adriana Dehelean
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Victor Babes University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 2nd Eftimie Murgu Sq., 300041 Timisoara, Romania; (I.P.); (C.A.D.)
| | - Ersilia Alexa
- Faculty of Food Engineering, University of Life Sciences King Mihai I of Romania, Calea Aradului 119, 300641 Timisoara, Romania;
| | - Filomena Conforti
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, 87036 Rende, Cosenza, Italy; (F.G.); (M.M.); (V.A.); (M.A.O.); (M.F.); (G.S.)
| | - Giancarlo Statti
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, 87036 Rende, Cosenza, Italy; (F.G.); (M.M.); (V.A.); (M.A.O.); (M.F.); (G.S.)
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Bava R, Castagna F, Lupia C, Ruga S, Conforti F, Marrelli M, Argentieri MP, Musella V, Britti D, Statti G, Palma E. Phytochemical Composition and Pharmacological Efficacy Evaluation of Calamintha nepeta, Calamintha sylvatica, Lavandula austroapennina and Mentha piperita Essential Oils for the Control of Honeybee ( Apis mellifera) Varroosis. Animals (Basel) 2023; 14:69. [PMID: 38200800 PMCID: PMC10778109 DOI: 10.3390/ani14010069] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2023] [Revised: 12/20/2023] [Accepted: 12/21/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Varroa destructor is currently considered the parasite that causes the greatest damage and economic losses to honeybee farms. Its presence is often associated with that of viral and bacterial pathogens, which ultimately leads to colony collapse. Careful control of the parasitic load is therefore necessary to avoid the onset of these events. Although chemical treatments are often in easily and quickly administered formulations, in recent years, there have been increasingly frequent reports of the onset of drug resistance phenomena, which must lead to reconsidering their use. Furthermore, chemical compounds can easily accumulate in the food matrices of the hive, with possible risks for the final consumer. In such a condition, it is imperative to find alternative treatment solutions. Essential oils (EOs) prove to be promising candidates due to their good efficacy and good environmental biodegradability. In this study, the acaricidal efficacy of the EOs of Calamintha sylvatica Bromf., Calamintha nepeta Savi, Lavandula austroapennina N.G. Passal. Tundis & Upson and Mentha piperita L., extracted from botanical species belonging to the Lamiaceae family, was evaluated. The test chosen for the evaluation was residual toxicity by contact. The examined EOs were diluted in Acetone to a concentration of 2, 1 and 0.5 mg/mL. At the highest concentration, the EOs demonstrated an acaricidal activity equal to 52% for C. nepeta, 60% for C. sylvatica, 80% for L. austroapennina and 68% for M. piperita. Of the EOs tested, therefore, Lavender proves to be a good candidate for subsequent evaluations in semi-field and field studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roberto Bava
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Catanzaro Magna Græcia, 88100 Catanzaro, CZ, Italy; (R.B.); (C.L.); (S.R.); (V.M.); (D.B.); (E.P.)
| | - Fabio Castagna
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Catanzaro Magna Græcia, 88100 Catanzaro, CZ, Italy; (R.B.); (C.L.); (S.R.); (V.M.); (D.B.); (E.P.)
- Mediterranean Ethnobotanical Conservatory, 88054 Sersale, CZ, Italy
| | - Carmine Lupia
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Catanzaro Magna Græcia, 88100 Catanzaro, CZ, Italy; (R.B.); (C.L.); (S.R.); (V.M.); (D.B.); (E.P.)
- Mediterranean Ethnobotanical Conservatory, 88054 Sersale, CZ, Italy
| | - Stefano Ruga
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Catanzaro Magna Græcia, 88100 Catanzaro, CZ, Italy; (R.B.); (C.L.); (S.R.); (V.M.); (D.B.); (E.P.)
| | - Filomena Conforti
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, 87036 Rende, CS, Italy; (F.C.); (M.M.); (G.S.)
| | - Mariangela Marrelli
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, 87036 Rende, CS, Italy; (F.C.); (M.M.); (G.S.)
| | - Maria Pia Argentieri
- Department of Pharmacy-Drug Sciences, University of Bari Aldo Moro, 70125 Bari, BA, Italy;
| | - Vincenzo Musella
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Catanzaro Magna Græcia, 88100 Catanzaro, CZ, Italy; (R.B.); (C.L.); (S.R.); (V.M.); (D.B.); (E.P.)
| | - Domenico Britti
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Catanzaro Magna Græcia, 88100 Catanzaro, CZ, Italy; (R.B.); (C.L.); (S.R.); (V.M.); (D.B.); (E.P.)
| | - Giancarlo Statti
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, 87036 Rende, CS, Italy; (F.C.); (M.M.); (G.S.)
| | - Ernesto Palma
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Catanzaro Magna Græcia, 88100 Catanzaro, CZ, Italy; (R.B.); (C.L.); (S.R.); (V.M.); (D.B.); (E.P.)
- Department of Health Sciences, Institute of Research for Food Safety & Health (IRC-FISH), University of Catanzaro Magna Græcia, 88100 Catanzaro, CZ, Italy
- Nutramed S.c.a.r.l., Complesso Ninì Barbieri, Roccelletta di Borgia, 88021 Catanzaro, CZ, Italy
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Marrelli M, Giordano F, Statti G, Panno ML. Rapid solid-liquid dynamic extraction of Cachrys pungens Jan ex Guss. aerial parts: influence on the photobiological and antioxidant properties. Nat Prod Res 2023:1-6. [PMID: 38143303 DOI: 10.1080/14786419.2023.2295921] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2023] [Accepted: 12/07/2023] [Indexed: 12/26/2023]
Abstract
Cachrys pungens Jan ex Guss. (Apiaceae) is a perennial plant native to Italy and Northwestern Africa. This species is known for its content in furanocoumarins, and the methanolic extract obtained with maceration previously demonstrated significant phototoxicity on 375 melanoma cells. Here, in order to better explain the biological effects, the apoptotic responses on melanoma cancer cell line were verified. The aerial parts were extracted with methanol through an innovative solid-liquid extraction technology, the Naviglio extractor®, and the raw extract was tested for its photobiological properties on human melanoma C32 cells irradiated with UVA light. The in vitro antioxidant potential was assessed as well. The sample exerted a concentration-dependent photocytotoxic activity (IC50 value = 3.00 ± 0.16 µg/mL). In line with these evidences, in C32-treated cells subjected to UV irradiation, further data have reported an up-regulation of p53 and PARP, both proteins involved in apoptotic response and DNA repair.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mariangela Marrelli
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, Rende, Italy
| | - Francesca Giordano
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, Rende, Italy
| | - Giancarlo Statti
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, Rende, Italy
| | - Maria Luisa Panno
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, Rende, Italy
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8
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Bava R, Castagna F, Lupia C, Ruga S, Musella V, Conforti F, Marrelli M, Argentieri MP, Britti D, Statti G, Palma E. Chemical Profile of Essential Oils of Selected Lamiaceae Plants and In Vitro Activity for Varroosis Control in Honeybees (Apis mellifera). Vet Sci 2023; 10:701. [PMID: 38133253 PMCID: PMC10747025 DOI: 10.3390/vetsci10120701] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2023] [Revised: 12/05/2023] [Accepted: 12/08/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023] Open
Abstract
The most significant ectoparasitic mite of honeybees, Varroa destructor, has a detrimental effect on bee health and honey output. The principal strategy used by the control programs is the application of synthetic acaricides. All of this has resulted in drug resistance, which is now a major worry for beekeeping. As a result, research on alternate products and techniques for mite management is now required. The aim of this study was to determine whether essential oils (EOs) extracted from botanical species of Lamiacae, typical of the Calabria region of Southern Italy, could reduce the population of the mite V. destructor. Among the best-known genera of the Lamiaceae family are oregano, rosemary and thyme, whose EOs were employed in this study. By steam distillation, the EOs were extracted from Origanum vulgare subsp. viridulum (Martrin-Donos) Nyman, Thymus capitatus Hoffmanns. and Link, Thymus longicaulis C.Presl and Salvia rosmarinus Schleid. plant species harvested directly on the Calabrian territory in their balsamic time. Each EO went to the test in vitro (contact toxicity) against V. destructor. Fifty adult female mites, five for each EO and the positive and negative control, were used in each experimental replicate. The positive controls comprised five individuals treated to Amitraz dilute in acetone, and the negative controls included five individuals exposed to acetone alone. To create the working solution to be tested (50 μL/tube), the EOs were diluted (0.5 mg/mL, 1 mg/mL, 2 mg/mL and 4 mg/mL) in HPLC-grade acetone. After 1 h of exposure, mite mortality was manually assessed. Origanum vulgare subsp. viridulum, Thymus capitatus and Thymus longicaulis were the EOs with the highest levels of efficiency at 2 mg/mL, neutralizing (dead + inactivated), 94%, 92% and 94% of parasites, respectively. Salvia rosmarinus EO gave a lower efficacy, resulting in a percentage of 38%. Interestingly, no adverse effects were highlighted in toxicity tests on honeybees. These results show that these OEs of the Lamiaceae family have antiparasitic action on V. destructor. Therefore, they could be used, individually or combined, to exploit the synergistic effect for a more sustainable control of this parasite mite in honeybee farms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roberto Bava
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Catanzaro Magna Græcia, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy; (R.B.); (C.L.); (S.R.); (V.M.); (D.B.); (E.P.)
| | - Fabio Castagna
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Catanzaro Magna Græcia, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy; (R.B.); (C.L.); (S.R.); (V.M.); (D.B.); (E.P.)
- Mediterranean Ethnobotanical Conservatory, 88054 Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Carmine Lupia
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Catanzaro Magna Græcia, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy; (R.B.); (C.L.); (S.R.); (V.M.); (D.B.); (E.P.)
- Mediterranean Ethnobotanical Conservatory, 88054 Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Stefano Ruga
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Catanzaro Magna Græcia, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy; (R.B.); (C.L.); (S.R.); (V.M.); (D.B.); (E.P.)
| | - Vincenzo Musella
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Catanzaro Magna Græcia, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy; (R.B.); (C.L.); (S.R.); (V.M.); (D.B.); (E.P.)
| | - Filomena Conforti
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, 87036 Cosenza, Italy; (F.C.); (M.M.); (G.S.)
| | - Mariangela Marrelli
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, 87036 Cosenza, Italy; (F.C.); (M.M.); (G.S.)
| | - Maria Pia Argentieri
- Department of Pharmacy-Drug Sciences, University of Bari Aldo Moro, 70125 Bari, Italy;
| | - Domenico Britti
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Catanzaro Magna Græcia, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy; (R.B.); (C.L.); (S.R.); (V.M.); (D.B.); (E.P.)
| | - Giancarlo Statti
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, 87036 Cosenza, Italy; (F.C.); (M.M.); (G.S.)
| | - Ernesto Palma
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Catanzaro Magna Græcia, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy; (R.B.); (C.L.); (S.R.); (V.M.); (D.B.); (E.P.)
- Department of Health Sciences, Institute of Research for Food Safety & Health (IRC-FISH), University of Catanzaro Magna Græcia, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy
- Nutramed S.c.a.r.l., Complesso Ninì Barbieri, 88021 Catanzaro, Italy
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9
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Bava R, Castagna F, Ruga S, Nucera S, Caminiti R, Serra M, Bulotta RM, Lupia C, Marrelli M, Conforti F, Statti G, Domenico B, Palma E. Plants and Their Derivatives as Promising Therapeutics for Sustainable Control of Honeybee ( Apis mellifera) Pathogens. Pathogens 2023; 12:1260. [PMID: 37887776 PMCID: PMC10610010 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens12101260] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2023] [Revised: 10/08/2023] [Accepted: 10/18/2023] [Indexed: 10/28/2023] Open
Abstract
The most important pollinator for agricultural crops is the Western honeybee (Apis mellifera). During the winter and summer seasons, diseases and stresses of various kinds endanger honeybee numbers and production, resulting in expenses for beekeepers and detrimental effects on agriculture and ecosystems. Researchers are continually in search of therapies for honeybees using the resources of microbiology, molecular biology, and chemistry to combat diseases and improve the overall health of these important pollinating insects. Among the most investigated and most promising solutions are medicinal plants and their derivatives. The health of animals and their ability to fight disease can be supported by natural products (NPs) derived from living organisms such as plants and microbes. NPs contain substances that can reduce the effects of diseases by promoting immunity or directly suppressing pathogens, and parasites. This literature review summarises the advances that the scientific community has achieved over the years regarding veterinary treatments in beekeeping through the use of NPs. Their impact on the prevention and control of honeybee diseases is investigated both in trials that have been conducted in the laboratory and field studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roberto Bava
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Catanzaro Magna Græcia, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy; (R.B.); (S.R.); (S.N.); (R.C.); (M.S.); (R.M.B.); (B.D.); (E.P.)
| | - Fabio Castagna
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Catanzaro Magna Græcia, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy; (R.B.); (S.R.); (S.N.); (R.C.); (M.S.); (R.M.B.); (B.D.); (E.P.)
| | - Stefano Ruga
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Catanzaro Magna Græcia, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy; (R.B.); (S.R.); (S.N.); (R.C.); (M.S.); (R.M.B.); (B.D.); (E.P.)
| | - Saverio Nucera
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Catanzaro Magna Græcia, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy; (R.B.); (S.R.); (S.N.); (R.C.); (M.S.); (R.M.B.); (B.D.); (E.P.)
| | - Rosamaria Caminiti
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Catanzaro Magna Græcia, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy; (R.B.); (S.R.); (S.N.); (R.C.); (M.S.); (R.M.B.); (B.D.); (E.P.)
| | - Maria Serra
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Catanzaro Magna Græcia, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy; (R.B.); (S.R.); (S.N.); (R.C.); (M.S.); (R.M.B.); (B.D.); (E.P.)
| | - Rosa Maria Bulotta
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Catanzaro Magna Græcia, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy; (R.B.); (S.R.); (S.N.); (R.C.); (M.S.); (R.M.B.); (B.D.); (E.P.)
| | - Carmine Lupia
- Mediterranean Ethnobotanical Conservatory, Sersale (CZ), 88054 Catanzaro, Italy;
- National Ethnobotanical Conservatory, Castelluccio Superiore, 85040 Potenza, Italy
| | - Mariangela Marrelli
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, Rende, 87036 Cosenza, Italy; (M.M.); (F.C.); (G.S.)
| | - Filomena Conforti
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, Rende, 87036 Cosenza, Italy; (M.M.); (F.C.); (G.S.)
| | - Giancarlo Statti
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, Rende, 87036 Cosenza, Italy; (M.M.); (F.C.); (G.S.)
| | - Britti Domenico
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Catanzaro Magna Græcia, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy; (R.B.); (S.R.); (S.N.); (R.C.); (M.S.); (R.M.B.); (B.D.); (E.P.)
| | - Ernesto Palma
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Catanzaro Magna Græcia, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy; (R.B.); (S.R.); (S.N.); (R.C.); (M.S.); (R.M.B.); (B.D.); (E.P.)
- Department of Health Sciences, Institute of Research for Food Safety & Health (IRC-FISH), University of Catanzaro Magna Græcia, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy
- Nutramed S.c.a.r.l., Complesso Ninì Barbieri, Roccelletta di Borgia, 88021 Catanzaro, Italy
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10
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Perri MR, Pellegrino M, Marrelli M, Aquaro S, Cavaliere F, Grande F, Occhiuzzi MA, Lupia C, Toma CC, Conforti F, Statti G. Identification of Pinosylvin in Pinus nigra subsp. laricio: A Naturally Occurring Stilbenoid Suppressing LPS-Induced Expression of Pro-Inflammatory Cytokines and Mediators and Inhibiting the JAK/STAT Signaling Pathway. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2023; 16:ph16050718. [PMID: 37242501 DOI: 10.3390/ph16050718] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2023] [Revised: 05/02/2023] [Accepted: 05/05/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Stilbenoids, a group of phytoalexin polyphenols produced by plants as a defence mechanism in response to stress conditions, are known for their anti-inflammatory potential. Pinosylvin, a naturally occurring molecule traditionally found in pinus trees, was here identified in Pinus nigra subsp. laricio var. calabrica from Southern Italy through HPLC analysis. Both this molecule and its well-known analogue resveratrol, the most famous wine polyphenol, were compared for their in vitro potential anti-inflammatory activity. Pinosylvin significantly inhibited the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α and IL-6) and NO mediator in LPS-stimulated RAW 264.7 cells. Moreover, its ability to inhibit the JAK/STAT signaling pathway was assessed: Western blot analyses showed a downregulation of both phosphorylated JAK2 and STAT3 proteins. Finally, in order to verify whether this biological activity could be attributed to a direct interaction of pinosylvin with JAK2, a molecular docking study was performed, confirming the capability of pinosylvin to bind the active site of the protein.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Rosaria Perri
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, 87036 Rende, Italy
| | - Michele Pellegrino
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, 87036 Rende, Italy
| | - Mariangela Marrelli
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, 87036 Rende, Italy
| | - Stefano Aquaro
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, 87036 Rende, Italy
| | - Fabiola Cavaliere
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, 87036 Rende, Italy
| | - Fedora Grande
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, 87036 Rende, Italy
| | | | - Carmine Lupia
- Mediterranean Ethnobotanical Conservatory, 88054 Sersale, Italy
- National Ethnobotanical Conservatory, 85040 Castelluccio Superiore, Italy
| | - Claudia-Crina Toma
- Pharmacognosy Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Vasile Goldis Western University of Arad, 87 L. Rebreanu Str., 310045 Arad, Romania
| | - Filomena Conforti
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, 87036 Rende, Italy
| | - Giancarlo Statti
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, 87036 Rende, Italy
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11
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Marrelli M, Amodeo V, Puntillo D, Statti G, Conforti F. In vitro antioxidant and anti-denaturation effects of Buglossoides purpurocaerulea (L.) I. M. Johnst. fruit extract. Nat Prod Res 2023; 37:1012-1015. [PMID: 35801970 DOI: 10.1080/14786419.2022.2096607] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
Abstract
Fruits from Buglossoides purpurocaerulea (L.) I. M. Johnst. were extracted with methanol through maceration. The phytochemical composition of obtained raw extract was investigated with gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) and high-performance thin layer chromatography (HPTLC) analyses. The total phenolic and flavonoid contents were also quantified and in vitro antioxidant activity was assessed using the DPPH assay and the β-carotene bleaching test. In order to verify the anti-arthritic potential, the raw extract was evaluated for its anti-denaturation effect on heat-treated bovine serum albumin (BSA), chosen as a protein model. Linoleic and α-linolenic acids were the most abundant identified apolar constituents. HPTLC analyses allowed the identification of rosmarinic acid. The sample showed a concentration-dependent antioxidant activity and it was also proven to be effective in preventing the heat-induced denaturation of BSA, with an IC50 value equal to 15.7 ± 0.5 µg/mL.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mariangela Marrelli
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, Rende, CS, Italy
| | - Valentina Amodeo
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, Rende, CS, Italy
| | - Domenico Puntillo
- Natural History Museum of Calabria and Botanical Garden, University of Calabria, Arcavacata di Rende, Cosenza, Italy
| | - Giancarlo Statti
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, Rende, CS, Italy
| | - Filomena Conforti
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, Rende, CS, Italy
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12
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Marrelli M, Argentieri MP, Alexa E, Meleleo D, Statti G, Avato P, Conforti F, Mallamaci R. Antioxidant activity and protective effect of the outer scales hydroalcoholic extract of Allium cepa L. var. Tropea on toxicity damage induced by Cadmium in Caco-2 cells. Food Chem Toxicol 2022; 170:113495. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fct.2022.113495] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2022] [Revised: 09/14/2022] [Accepted: 10/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
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13
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Perri MR, Pellegrino M, Aquaro S, Cavaliere F, Lupia C, Uzunov D, Marrelli M, Conforti F, Statti G. Cachrys spp. from Southern Italy: Phytochemical Characterization and JAK/STAT Signaling Pathway Inhibition. Plants (Basel) 2022; 11:plants11212913. [PMID: 36365365 PMCID: PMC9655331 DOI: 10.3390/plants11212913] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2022] [Revised: 10/21/2022] [Accepted: 10/25/2022] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
Different phytochemical compounds have been demonstrated to modulate the JAK/STAT signaling pathway. Here, three Cachrys species from Southern Italy were investigated for both the phytochemical profile and the potential anti-inflammatory properties. The aerial parts were extracted with methanol through Naviglio Extractor®, an innovative solid-liquid extraction technique that allows to obtain high quality extracts by working with gradient pressure. Extracts were analyzed with GC-MS and standardized in furanocoumarin content, resulting rich in xanthotoxin, bergapten and isopimpinellin. Given the known ability of bergapten to inhibit the JAK/STAT signaling pathway by decreasing the levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-6) and inflammatory mediators (NO) in RAW 264.7 cells activated by LPS, Cachrys extracts were investigated for their biological properties. The results obtained in this study showed that Cachrys pungens extract, presenting the highest content in furanocoumarins (7.48 ± 0.48 and 2.94 ± 0.16 mg/50 mg of extract for xanthotoxin and bergapten, respectively), significantly decreased STAT3 protein levels, pro-inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-6) and increased IL-10 anti-inflammatory cytokine. Cachrys ferulacea significantly decreased JAK2 phosphorylation, being even more effective than bergapten. In conclusion, investigated extracts could be potential candidates for the search of novel anti-inflammatory agents acting via inhibiting the JAK/STAT signaling pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Rosaria Perri
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, 87036 Rende, Italy
| | - Michele Pellegrino
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, 87036 Rende, Italy
| | - Stefano Aquaro
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, 87036 Rende, Italy
| | - Fabiola Cavaliere
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, 87036 Rende, Italy
| | - Carmine Lupia
- Mediterranean Etnobotanical Conservatory, 88054 Sersale, Italy
- National Etnobotanical Conservatory, 85040 Castelluccio Superiore, Italy
| | - Dimitar Uzunov
- National Museum of Natural History, Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, 1000 Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Mariangela Marrelli
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, 87036 Rende, Italy
| | - Filomena Conforti
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, 87036 Rende, Italy
| | - Giancarlo Statti
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, 87036 Rende, Italy
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14
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Perri MR, Romano C, Marrelli M, Zicarelli L, Toma CC, Basta D, Conforti F, Statti G. Beneficial Role of Fruits, Their Juices, and Freeze-Dried Powders on Inflammatory Bowel Disease and Related Dysbiosis. Plants (Basel) 2021; 11:plants11010004. [PMID: 35009009 PMCID: PMC8747592 DOI: 10.3390/plants11010004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2021] [Revised: 12/15/2021] [Accepted: 12/17/2021] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a group of complex chronic inflammatory conditions affecting the gastrointestinal tract. It is linked to a number of genetic and environmental factors able to perturb the immune-microbiome axis. Diet is the most investigated variable both for its role in the etiology of IBD and for its beneficial potential in the treatment of the symptoms. Dietary products may influence intestinal inflammation through different mechanisms of action, such as the modulation of inflammatory mediators, the alteration of gene expression, changes in gut permeability, and modifications in enteric flora composition. A consisting number of studies deal with the link between nutrition and microbial community, and particular attention is paid to plant-based foods. The effects of the dietary intake of different fruits have been investigated so far. This review aims to present the most recent studies concerning the beneficial potential of fruit consumption on human gut microbiota. Investigated plant species are described, and obtained results are presented and discussed in order to provide an overview of both in vitro and in vivo effects of fruits, their juices, and freeze-dried powders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Rosaria Perri
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, 87036 Rende, CS, Italy; (M.R.P.); (F.C.)
| | - Carmen Romano
- SIACSA Società Italiana degli Analisti del Comportamento in campo Sperimentale ed Applicativo, 87100 Cosenza, RC, Italy;
| | - Mariangela Marrelli
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, 87036 Rende, CS, Italy; (M.R.P.); (F.C.)
| | | | - Claudia-Crina Toma
- Pharmacognosy Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Vasile Goldis Western University of Arad, 87 L. Rebreanu Str., 310045 Arad, Romania;
| | - Daniele Basta
- University Sport Center, University of Calabria, 87036 Rende, CS, Italy;
| | - Filomena Conforti
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, 87036 Rende, CS, Italy; (M.R.P.); (F.C.)
| | - Giancarlo Statti
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, 87036 Rende, CS, Italy; (M.R.P.); (F.C.)
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15
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Grande F, Occhiuzzi MA, Perri MR, Ioele G, Rizzuti B, Statti G, Garofalo A. Polyphenols from Citrus Tacle ® Extract Endowed with HMGCR Inhibitory Activity: An Antihypercholesterolemia Natural Remedy. Molecules 2021; 26:molecules26185718. [PMID: 34577189 PMCID: PMC8470345 DOI: 10.3390/molecules26185718] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2021] [Revised: 09/10/2021] [Accepted: 09/18/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Tacle® is a citrus fruit obtained from the crossbreeding of Clementine and Tarocco cultivars. This fruit retains a promising nutraceutical potential most likely due to a high content in polyphenols, among which the main constituents are the two glycosides naringin and hesperidin. Herein, we evaluated, through an in vitro assay, the capability of Tacle extracts to inhibit the hydroxymethylglutaryl-CoA reductase enzyme, which plays a key role in cholesterol biosynthesis. The results obtained spurred us to investigate whether the anti-enzymatic activity observed may be due to a direct interaction of aglycones naringenin and hesperetin with the enzyme catalytic site. Molecular docking simulations indicated that these two compounds are able to anchor to the protein with binding modes and affinities similar to those found for statins, which represent mainstream medications against hypercholesterolemia. The overall results showed an interesting nutraceutical potential of Tacle, suggesting that its extract could be used for dietary supplementation in the treatment of moderate hypercholesterolemia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fedora Grande
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, Ampl. Polifunzionale, Via P. Bucci, 87036 Rende, Italy; (M.A.O.); (M.R.P.); (G.I.); (G.S.); (A.G.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-0984-493019
| | - Maria Antonietta Occhiuzzi
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, Ampl. Polifunzionale, Via P. Bucci, 87036 Rende, Italy; (M.A.O.); (M.R.P.); (G.I.); (G.S.); (A.G.)
| | - Maria Rosaria Perri
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, Ampl. Polifunzionale, Via P. Bucci, 87036 Rende, Italy; (M.A.O.); (M.R.P.); (G.I.); (G.S.); (A.G.)
| | - Giuseppina Ioele
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, Ampl. Polifunzionale, Via P. Bucci, 87036 Rende, Italy; (M.A.O.); (M.R.P.); (G.I.); (G.S.); (A.G.)
| | - Bruno Rizzuti
- CNR-NANOTEC, SS Rende (CS), Department of Physics, University of Calabria, Via P. Bucci, 87036 Rende, Italy;
- Institute of Biocomputation and Physics of Complex Systems (BIFI), Joint Units IQFR-CSIC-BIFI, and GBsC-CSIC-BIFI, University of Zaragoza, 50018 Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Giancarlo Statti
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, Ampl. Polifunzionale, Via P. Bucci, 87036 Rende, Italy; (M.A.O.); (M.R.P.); (G.I.); (G.S.); (A.G.)
| | - Antonio Garofalo
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, Ampl. Polifunzionale, Via P. Bucci, 87036 Rende, Italy; (M.A.O.); (M.R.P.); (G.I.); (G.S.); (A.G.)
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16
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Bava R, Castagna F, Piras C, Palma E, Cringoli G, Musolino V, Lupia C, Perri MR, Statti G, Britti D, Musella V. In Vitro Evaluation of Acute Toxicity of Five Citrus spp. Essential Oils towards the Parasitic Mite Varroa destructor. Pathogens 2021; 10:pathogens10091182. [PMID: 34578214 PMCID: PMC8466118 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens10091182] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2021] [Revised: 09/08/2021] [Accepted: 09/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Varroa destructor is the most important ectoparasitic mite of honey bees that has a negative impact on bee health and honey production. The control programs are mainly based on the use of synthetic acaricides that are often administered indiscriminately. All this has led to drug resistance that now represent a great concern for honey bee farming. The research for alternative products/methods for mites’ control is now mandatory. The aim of this study was to test whether Citrus spp. essential oils could diminish the growth of the V. destructor mite. In Calabria (southern Italy), plants of the Citrus genus are very common and grow both spontaneously and cultured. The essential oils used in this study were extracted from bergamot (Citrus bergamia), grapefruit (Citrus paradisi), lemon (Citrus limon), orange (Citrus sinensis), and mandarin (Citrus reticulata) by hydrodistillation. Every EO was in vitro tested against V. destructor. Each experimental replicate was performed using 35 viable adult female mites (5 for each EO) collected the same day from the same apiary and included negative controls (5 individuals exposed to acetone only) and positive controls (5 individuals exposed to Amitraz diluted in acetone). The essential oils (Eos) were diluted (0.5 mg/mL, 1 mg/mL, and 2 mg/mL) in HPLC grade acetone to obtain the working solution to be tested (50 µL/tube). Mite mortality was manually assessed after 1 h exposure under controlled conditions. The essential oils that showed the best effectiveness at 0.5 mg/mL were bergamot, which neutralized (dead + inactivated) 80% (p ≤ 0.001) of the parasites; grapefruit, which neutralized 70% (p ≤ 0.001); and lemon, which neutralized 69% of them. Interestingly, the positive control (Amitraz) at the same concentration neutralized 60% of the parasites. These results demonstrate that Calabrian bergamot, grapefruit, and lemon Eos consistently reduced V. destructor viability and open the possibility for their utilization to control this parasite in honey bee farming.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roberto Bava
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Catanzaro Magna Græcia, CIS VetSUA, Viale Europa, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy; (R.B.); (F.C.); (E.P.); (D.B.); (V.M.)
| | - Fabio Castagna
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Catanzaro Magna Græcia, CIS VetSUA, Viale Europa, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy; (R.B.); (F.C.); (E.P.); (D.B.); (V.M.)
| | - Cristian Piras
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Catanzaro Magna Græcia, CIS VetSUA, Viale Europa, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy; (R.B.); (F.C.); (E.P.); (D.B.); (V.M.)
- Correspondence: (C.P.); (V.M.)
| | - Ernesto Palma
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Catanzaro Magna Græcia, CIS VetSUA, Viale Europa, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy; (R.B.); (F.C.); (E.P.); (D.B.); (V.M.)
- Nutramed S.c.a.r.l. Complesso Ninì Barbieri, Roccelletta di Borgia, 88021 Catanzaro, Italy
- Institute of Research for Food Safety & Health (IRC-FISH), Department of Health Sciences, University of Catanzaro Magna Græcia University, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Cringoli
- Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Production, University of Naples Federico II, CREMOPAR Campania Region, 80137 Naples, Italy;
| | - Vincenzo Musolino
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Catanzaro Magna Græcia, CIS VetSUA, Viale Europa, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy; (R.B.); (F.C.); (E.P.); (D.B.); (V.M.)
- Institute of Research for Food Safety & Health (IRC-FISH), Department of Health Sciences, University of Catanzaro Magna Græcia University, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy
- Correspondence: (C.P.); (V.M.)
| | - Carmine Lupia
- Mediterranean Etnobotanical Conservatory, Sersale, 88054 Catanzaro, Italy;
| | - Maria Rosaria Perri
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, 87100 Cosenza, Italy; (M.R.P.); (G.S.)
| | - Giancarlo Statti
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, 87100 Cosenza, Italy; (M.R.P.); (G.S.)
| | - Domenico Britti
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Catanzaro Magna Græcia, CIS VetSUA, Viale Europa, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy; (R.B.); (F.C.); (E.P.); (D.B.); (V.M.)
| | - Vincenzo Musella
- Department of Health Sciences, University of Catanzaro Magna Græcia, CIS VetSUA, Viale Europa, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy; (R.B.); (F.C.); (E.P.); (D.B.); (V.M.)
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17
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Marrelli M, De Marco CT, Statti G, Neag TA, Toma CC, Conforti F. Ranunculus species suppress nitric oxide production in LPS-stimulated RAW 264.7 macrophages. Nat Prod Res 2021; 36:2859-2863. [PMID: 33955286 DOI: 10.1080/14786419.2021.1920018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
Aerial parts and roots from three Ranunculus species were extracted with 70% ethanol. The phytochemical composition was investigated using GC-MS and multivariate data analysis. The total phenolic and flavonoid contents were also assessed. The in vitro inhibitory properties were evaluated as nitrite concentration in LPS-stimulated RAW 264.7 macrophage cell line. All the samples induced concentration-dependent inhibitory effects, with R. sceleratus aerial parts extract being the most interesting sample (IC50 = 22.08 ± 1.32 µg/mL), even more active than the reference compound indomethacin. A very good activity was also observed for R. sardous and R. ficaria aerial parts extracts (IC50 = 51.61 ± 3.12 µg/mL and 84.55 ± 3.40 µg/mL). A lesser but noteworthy potential was also demonstrated for the root extracts. The results suggest that Ranunculus hydroalcoholic extracts are able to inhibit nitrite accumulation and may be useful in preventing inflammatory diseases mediated by excessive production of NO.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mariangela Marrelli
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, Rende, Italy
| | - Caterina Tecla De Marco
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, Rende, Italy
| | - Giancarlo Statti
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, Rende, Italy
| | | | | | - Filomena Conforti
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, Rende, Italy
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18
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Marrelli M, Amodeo V, Viscardi F, De Luca M, Statti G, Conforti F. Essential Oils of Foeniculum vulgare subsp. piperitum and Their in Vitro Anti-Arthritic Potential. Chem Biodivers 2020; 17:e2000388. [PMID: 33063941 DOI: 10.1002/cbdv.202000388] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2020] [Accepted: 09/22/2020] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
Wild Foeniculum vulgare subsp. piperitum (C.Presl) Bég. flowers, fruits and leaves were extracted with steam distillation and obtained essential oils (EOs) were characterized using GC/MS. The study was designed to verify the potential effectiveness of fennel EOs in the treatment of inflammation and arthritis. Since tissue proteins denaturation is a major cause of arthritic diseases, fennel EOs and their main constituents were evaluated for their ability to inhibit the heat-induced proteins degradation using bovine serum albumin as a protein model. Moreover, the in vitro inhibitory effects of the three EOs on the pro-inflammatory mediator nitric oxide (NO) production were verified in LPS-stimulated RAW 264.7 cells. Estragole (28.81-33.40 %), anethole (24.16-27.40 %), fenchone (9.76-18.48 %), α-phellandrene (1.63-8.37 %) and limonene (5.54-6.05 %) were the major constituents. All the EOs showed a concentration-dependent biological activity, being the flower EO the most effective in inhibiting NO production (IC50 =232.2±11.3 μg/mL). The leaf EO showed a very good bovine serum albumin (BSA) anti-denaturation activity (IC50 =95.9±2.4 μg/mL). Moreover, four components were proved to be effective in protecting protein from heat-induced degradation, being α-phellandrene the most active compound (IC50 =73.2±1.9 μg/mL).
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Affiliation(s)
- Mariangela Marrelli
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, 87036, Rende, CS, Italy
| | - Valentina Amodeo
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, 87036, Rende, CS, Italy
| | - Florinda Viscardi
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, 87036, Rende, CS, Italy
| | - Michele De Luca
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, 87036, Rende, CS, Italy
| | - Giancarlo Statti
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, 87036, Rende, CS, Italy
| | - Filomena Conforti
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, 87036, Rende, CS, Italy
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19
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Marrelli M, Amodeo V, Perri MR, Conforti F, Statti G. Essential Oils and Bioactive Components against Arthritis: A Novel Perspective on Their Therapeutic Potential. Plants (Basel) 2020; 9:plants9101252. [PMID: 32977657 PMCID: PMC7598204 DOI: 10.3390/plants9101252] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2020] [Revised: 09/19/2020] [Accepted: 09/21/2020] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
Essential oils (EOs) are known to possess a number of beneficial properties. Their antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antidiabetic, and cancer-preventing activities have been extensively reported. Due to their wide use as food preservers and additives, as well as their use in agriculture, perfumes, and make-up products, these complex mixtures of volatile compounds have gained importance from a commercial point of view, not only in the pharmaceutical industry, but also in agronomic, food, cosmetic, and perfume industries. An analysis of the recent scientific literature allowed us to highlight the presence of an increasing number of studies on the potential antiarthritic properties of EOs and their main constituents, which seems to suggest a new interesting potential therapeutic application. The aim of this review is to examine the current knowledge on the beneficial effects of essential oils in the treatment of arthritic diseases, providing an overview of the reports on the in vivo and in vitro effects of EOs. Furthermore, this review critically examines the recent findings on the potential roles of the main components of EOs in the exerted beneficial effects. Obtained negative results are also reported.
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Marrelli M, Statti G, Conforti F. Hypericum spp.: An Update on the Biological Activities and Metabolic Profiles. Mini Rev Med Chem 2020; 20:66-87. [PMID: 31556858 DOI: 10.2174/1389557519666190926120211] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2019] [Revised: 07/18/2019] [Accepted: 09/06/2019] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Plants from the genus Hypericum, one genus of the Hypericaceae family, have attracted a lot of attention for their potential pharmaceutical applications. Most of the studies in the literature focus on H. perforatum L. (common St. John's wort), whose complex spectrum of bioactive compounds makes this species one of the top herbal remedies and supplements in the world. It is also important to compare the studies on other Hypericum species, both from the phytochemical and biological point of view. The aim of this review was to provide an update of most recent studies about biological investigations of plants belonging to Hypericum genus. The metabolic profiles of Hypericum spp. were also discussed in order to present a spectrum of secondary metabolites not previously identified in this genus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mariangela Marrelli
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, I-87036 Rende, (CS), Italy
| | - Giancarlo Statti
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, I-87036 Rende, (CS), Italy
| | - Filomena Conforti
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, I-87036 Rende, (CS), Italy
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21
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Marrelli M, Statti G, Conforti F. A Review of Biologically Active Natural Products from Mediterranean Wild Edible Plants: Benefits in the Treatment of Obesity and Its Related Disorders. Molecules 2020; 25:molecules25030649. [PMID: 32028716 PMCID: PMC7036856 DOI: 10.3390/molecules25030649] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2020] [Revised: 02/01/2020] [Accepted: 02/01/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Wild foods constitute an essential component of people’s diets around the world. According to the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), over 100 million people in the EU consume wild foods, while 65 million collect some form of wild food themselves. The Mediterranean basin is a biodiversity hotspot of wild edible species. Nowadays, due to the renewed interest in alimurgic plants and the recent findings on the beneficial role of their phytochemical constituents, these species have been defined as “new functional foods”. Research on natural products has recently regained importance with the growing understanding of their biological significance. Botanical food supplements marketed for weight and fat loss in obese subjects will be one of the most important items in marketed nutraceuticals. The aim of this report was to review the phytochemical compounds of Mediterranean wild edible species and their therapeutic potential against obesity and its related disorders. Results on the in vitro and in vivo activity of the most interesting plant extracts and their bioactive components are presented and discussed. The most interesting discoveries on their mechanisms of action are reported as well. Overall, this contribution highlights the importance and beneficial health roles of wild edible species.
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Casacchia T, Occhiuzzi MA, Grande F, Rizzuti B, Granieri MC, Rocca C, Gattuso A, Garofalo A, Angelone T, Statti G. A pilot study on the nutraceutical properties of the Citrus hybrid Tacle® as a dietary source of polyphenols for supplementation in metabolic disorders. J Funct Foods 2019. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jff.2018.11.030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
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Marrelli M, Amodeo V, Statti G, Conforti F. Biological Properties and Bioactive Components of Allium cepa L.: Focus on Potential Benefits in the Treatment of Obesity and Related Comorbidities. Molecules 2018; 24:molecules24010119. [PMID: 30598012 PMCID: PMC6337254 DOI: 10.3390/molecules24010119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2018] [Revised: 12/20/2018] [Accepted: 12/24/2018] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Common onion (Allium cepa L.) is one of the oldest cultivated plants, utilized worldwide as both vegetable and flavouring. This species is known to contain sulphur amino acids together with many vitamins and minerals. A variety of secondary metabolites, including flavonoids, phytosterols and saponins, have also been identified. Despite the predominant use of this plant as food, a wide range of beneficial effects have also been proved. Different biological properties, such as antioxidant, antimicrobial and antidiabetic, have been reported. The aim of this review is to provide an overview of the studies concerning the beneficial effects of this species against obesity and its related comorbidities, such as hyperlipidaemia, hypertension and diabetes. Both in vitro and in vivo results about onion dietary supplementation have been taken into account. Furthermore, this review examines the possible role of onion bioactive components in modulating or preventing weight-gain or related diseases, as well as the possible mechanisms behind their activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mariangela Marrelli
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, I-87036 Rende (CS), Italy.
| | - Valentina Amodeo
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, I-87036 Rende (CS), Italy.
| | - Giancarlo Statti
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, I-87036 Rende (CS), Italy.
| | - Filomena Conforti
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, I-87036 Rende (CS), Italy.
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24
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Marrelli M, Araniti F, Abenavoli MR, Statti G, Conforti F. Potential Health Benefits of Origanum heracleoticum Essential Oil: Phytochemical and Biological Variability among Different Calabrian Populations. Nat Prod Commun 2018. [DOI: 10.1177/1934578x1801300921] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The potential health benefits of the essential oils of six different populations of Origanum heracleoticum L. from Calabria (Italy) were assessed, together with the evaluation of the influence of the site of collection on their metabolic profile and biological activity. Different terpenoids were identified, being thymol, carvacrol and o-cymene among the most abundant ones. Hierarchical cluster analysis allowed the identification of two main groups, which were discriminated by the altitude of collection. The antioxidant activity was tested by means of two in vitro assays: DPPH and β-carotene bleaching test. Samples EO-4 and EO-3 were the most active in protecting linoleic acid from peroxidation, with IC50 values of 4.00 and 4.68 μg/mL after 30 minutes of incubation. The anti-inflammatory potential was assessed through the evaluation of the capacity to inhibit NO production in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced murine macrophage RAW 264.7 cell line. All essential oils induced a dose-depending inhibitory effect. An excellent activity was demonstrated for sample EO-4, followed by sample EO-3 (IC50 values equal to 32.77 and 49.48 μg/mL, respectively). Observed biological properties were correlated to the phytochemical content of analyzed samples.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mariangela Marrelli
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, I-87036 Rende, (CS), Italy
| | - Fabrizio Araniti
- Department of Agraria, University “Mediterranea” of Reggio Calabria, I-89100 Reggio Calabria, Italy
| | - Maria Rosa Abenavoli
- Department of Agraria, University “Mediterranea” of Reggio Calabria, I-89100 Reggio Calabria, Italy
| | - Giancarlo Statti
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, I-87036 Rende, (CS), Italy
| | - Filomena Conforti
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, I-87036 Rende, (CS), Italy
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25
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Grande F, Rizzuti B, Occhiuzzi MA, Ioele G, Casacchia T, Gelmini F, Guzzi R, Garofalo A, Statti G. Identification by Molecular Docking ofHomoisoflavones from Leopoldia comosa as Ligands of Estrogen Receptors. Molecules 2018; 23:molecules23040894. [PMID: 29649162 PMCID: PMC6017050 DOI: 10.3390/molecules23040894] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2018] [Revised: 04/09/2018] [Accepted: 04/10/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The physiological responses to estrogen hormones are mediated within specific tissues by at least two distinct receptors, ERα and ERβ. Several natural and synthetic molecules show activity by interacting with these proteins. In particular, a number of vegetal compounds known as phytoestrogens shows estrogenic or anti-estrogenic activity. The majority of these compounds belongs to the isoflavones family and the most representative one, genistein, shows anti-proliferative effects on various hormone-sensitive cancer cells, including breast, ovarian and prostate cancer. In this work we describe the identification of structurally related homoisoflavones isolated from Leopoldia comosa (L.) Parl. (L. comosa), a perennial bulbous plant, potentially useful as hormonal substitutes or complements in cancer treatments. Two of these compounds have been selected as potential ligands of estrogen receptors (ERs) and the interaction with both isoforms of estrogen receptors have been investigated through molecular docking on their crystallographic structures. The results provide evidence of the binding of these compounds to the target receptors and their interactions with key residues of the active sites of the two proteins, and thus they could represent suitable leads for the development of novel tools for the dissection of ER signaling and the development of new pharmacological treatments in hormone-sensitive cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fedora Grande
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, Ampl. Polifunzionale, Via P. Bucci, 87036 Rende (CS), Italy.
| | - Bruno Rizzuti
- CNR-NANOTEC, Licryl-UOS Cosenza and CEMIF.Cal, Department of Physics, University of Calabria, Via P. Bucci, 87036 Rende (CS), Italy.
| | - Maria A Occhiuzzi
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, Ampl. Polifunzionale, Via P. Bucci, 87036 Rende (CS), Italy.
| | - Giuseppina Ioele
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, Ampl. Polifunzionale, Via P. Bucci, 87036 Rende (CS), Italy.
| | - Teresa Casacchia
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, Ampl. Polifunzionale, Via P. Bucci, 87036 Rende (CS), Italy.
| | - Fabrizio Gelmini
- Department of Environmental Science and Policy-ESP, University of Milan, Via Celoria 2, 20133 Milan, Italy.
| | - Rita Guzzi
- CNR-NANOTEC, Licryl-UOS Cosenza and CEMIF.Cal, Department of Physics, University of Calabria, Via P. Bucci, 87036 Rende (CS), Italy.
- Department of Physics, University of Calabria, Via P. Bucci, 87036 Rende (CS), Italy.
| | - Antonio Garofalo
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, Ampl. Polifunzionale, Via P. Bucci, 87036 Rende (CS), Italy.
| | - Giancarlo Statti
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, Ampl. Polifunzionale, Via P. Bucci, 87036 Rende (CS), Italy.
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Casacchia T, Scavello F, Rocca C, Granieri MC, Beretta G, Amelio D, Gelmini F, Spena A, Mazza R, Toma CC, Angelone T, Statti G, Pasqua T. Leopoldia comosa prevents metabolic disorders in rats with high-fat diet-induced obesity. Eur J Nutr 2018; 58:965-979. [DOI: 10.1007/s00394-018-1609-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2017] [Accepted: 01/06/2018] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
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Abstract
Although clovers (Trifolium ssp, Fabaceae) are considered one of the leading crops for cattle grazing, they could also be used as a potential source of bioactive compounds. in fact, they have a long history of use in popular medicine. The Trifolium pratense (Red Clover) is certainly the most common in this family, but endemic or sub endemic italian species are interesting for the investigation of their bioactive compounds content and their potential application. The aim of the study was to investigate the tirfolium pratensis versus Trifolium patulum Tausch, an endemic species of southern appennine. The analysis focused on GC / MS determinations of volatile content, and HPLC determinations of polar compounds. In addition, antioxidant activity tests were performed.
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Abstract
The use of meristematic tissues for the production of health-related extracts (meristemotherapy) is coded by the european pharmacopoeia. However, traditional macerated glycerol requires long production times, based on classical extraction by diffusion. The use of a Dynamic Extraction Accelerator (Naviglio� Extractor) allowed for extraction in significantly faster (6 h) times compared to the conventional ones for the preparation of a macerated glycerol (21 days). The quantitative results of extracting Syringa vulgaris meristematic tissues were measured in terms of the amount of total extracted polyphenols and total extracted flavonoids. The biological activity related to the inhibition of the pancreatic lipase enzyme was compared and, as expected, looking phytochemical composition, the extract IC50 in Naviglio� Extractor was significantly lower than that of macerated glycerol.
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Toma CC, Casacchia T, D`ippolito C, Statti G. Ficus carica SSP Dottato Buds by Intercropping Different Species: Metabolites, Antioxidant Activity and Endogenous Plant Hormones (IAA, ABA). Rev Chim 2017. [DOI: 10.37358/rc.17.7.5731] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Ficus carica is one of the most common tree crops in the Mediterranean basin. Its ethnobotanic use has been extensively studied to evaluate its biological activity in relation to the presence of specific secondary metabolites. In this paper, the extract of the gemstones of the ficus carica ssp dottato di Cosenza was studied with respect to different vegetation habitats (intercrops) and two different extraction techniques. Buds, in fact, are used in gemotherapy as macerated glycerides obtained by long extraction processes (21 Days).The use of a Dynamic extractor (Naviglio� Extractor) has allowed not only to reduce the extraction time (10 h) but to obtain a qualitatively and quantitatively enriched extract withactive ingredients to which the specific biological activity is reported. In fact, the total polyphenolic and total flavonoid components were determined, of which Quercetin-3O-Glucoside and 3-O-Rhamnoside were dosed, and the resulting anti-oxidant activity. IAA and ABA have also been quantified.
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Marrelli M, Statti G, Conforti F, Menichini F. New Potential Pharmaceutical Applications of Hypericum Species. Mini Rev Med Chem 2016; 16:710-20. [PMID: 26156546 DOI: 10.2174/1389557515666150709105844] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2014] [Revised: 05/07/2015] [Accepted: 07/06/2015] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
The genus Hypericum includes more than 450 species distributed in Europe, North America, North Africa and West Asia. These plants are widely used in folk medicine for the treatment of inflammation, bacterial and viral infections, burns and gastric disorders. The use for alleviating inflammation and promoting wound healing is well known for H. Perforatum L. (St. John's wort) and other species. Because of its pharmacological activity, H. perforatum L. is one of the most important species of this genus. This plant has been largely utilized for its efficacy in the treatment of mild to moderate depression. However, some other species have been utilized in traditional medicine and have been studied for their phytochemical composition and for their biological activities to date. Hypericum species contain biologically active secondary metabolites belonging to at least ten different classes, with prevalence of naphthodianthrones (hypericin and pseudohypericin), phloroglucinols (hyperforin), flavonoids (rutin, hyperoside, isoquercitrin, quercitrin, quercetin, amentoflavone) and phenylpropanoids (chlorogenic acid). However, great variations in contents have been reported for wild populations worldwide. The purpose of this review is to provide an overview of most recent studies about potential pharmaceutical applications of plants belonging to Hypericum genus. The most interesting isolated active principles and both in vitro and in vivo effects of Hypericum extracts are presented and discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Filomena Conforti
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Calabria, I-87036 Rende (CS), Italy.
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Liguori V, Casacchia T, Forte T, Vilardo E, Palazzo S, Statti G, Conforti F. Clinical nutrition can improve outcame in cancer treatment? Ann Oncol 2015. [DOI: 10.1093/annonc/mdv346.13] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
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Statti G, Marrelli M, Conforti F, Spagnoletti A, Tacchini M, Fimognari C, Brognara E, Gambari R, Sacchetti G, Guerrini A. Inhibition of Cancer Cell Proliferation and Antiradical Effects of Decoction, Hydroalcoholic Extract, and Principal Constituents of Hemidesmus indicus R. Br. Phytother Res 2015; 29:857-63. [PMID: 25753739 DOI: 10.1002/ptr.5322] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2014] [Revised: 02/03/2015] [Accepted: 02/07/2015] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
Indian Sarsaparilla (Hemidesmus indicus R. Br.) is widely used in Indian traditional medicine. In the present work, we explored the effects of decoction, traditional Ayurvedic preparation, and hydroalcoholic extract, a phytocomplex more traditionally studied and commercialized as food supplement in western medicine, from the roots as possible source of chemicals with new functional potential linked to their nutritional uses. The antiproliferative and antioxidant properties were assayed. To test antiproliferative affects, different cancer cell lines, growing both as monolayers (CaCo2, MCF-7, A549, K562, MDA-MB-231, Jurkat, HepG2, and LoVo) and in suspension (K562 and Jurkat) were used. The decoction showed strong activity on HepG2 cells, while the hydroalcoholic extracts were active on HepG2, LoVo, MCF-7, K562, and Jurkat cell lines. Weak inhibition of cancer cell proliferation was observed for the principal constituents of the preparations: 2-hydroxy-4-methoxybenzaldehyde, 2-hydroxy-4-methoxybenzoic acid, and 3-hydroxy-4-methoxybenzaldehyde that were tested alone. The antiradical activity was tested with 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl and 2,2'-azinobis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid)diammonium salt tests and inhibition of nitric oxide production in lipopolysaccharide-stimulated RAW 264.7 macrophages. Interesting result has also been obtained for hydroalcoholic extract regarding genoprotective potential (58.79% of inhibition at 37.5 µg/mL).
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Affiliation(s)
- Giancarlo Statti
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, Italy
| | - Mariangela Marrelli
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, Italy
| | - Filomena Conforti
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, Italy
| | | | - Massimo Tacchini
- Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnologies, University of Ferrara, Italy
| | - Carmela Fimognari
- Department for Life Quality Studies, Alma Mater Studiorum-University of Bologna, Rimini, Italy
| | - Eleonora Brognara
- Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnologies, University of Ferrara, Italy
| | - Roberto Gambari
- Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnologies, University of Ferrara, Italy
| | - Gianni Sacchetti
- Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnologies, University of Ferrara, Italy
| | - Alessandra Guerrini
- Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnologies, University of Ferrara, Italy
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Martino IF, Statti G, Fancoli F, Tinelli C, Bressan MA. Chest ultrasounds and X-rays compared in patients with acute dyspnea in an Emergency Department. Crit Ultrasound J 2014. [PMID: 25749456 PMCID: PMC4147843 DOI: 10.1186/2036-7902-6-s2-a1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
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34
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Marrelli M, Conforti F, Toniolo C, Nicoletti M, Statti G, Menichini F. Hypericum perforatum: Influences of the habitat on chemical composition, photo-induced cytotoxicity, and antiradical activity. Pharm Biol 2014; 52:909-18. [PMID: 24920234 DOI: 10.3109/13880209.2013.872675] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
CONTEXT Hypericin, isolated from Hypericum perforatum L. and about another 300 Hypericum species (Guttiferae), is one of the most powerful photosensitizers found in nature. OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to assess the variability of chemical composition and biological activities of four H. perforatum samples, collected at different altitudes in the South Apennine of Italy. MATERIALS AND METHODS MTT assay was used to evaluate the antiproliferative activity of different samples concentrations (0.6-100 µg/mL) after irradiation at 365 nm. The inhibition of nitric oxide production was evaluated after 24 h of incubation using the macrophage cell line RAW 264.7 and sample solutions ranging from 12.5 to 1000 µg/mL. Antioxidant activities were evaluated using 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) assay and β-carotene bleaching test (ranges were 12.5-1000 and 1-400 µg/mL, respectively). Chemical composition was evaluated through HPTLC, and different contents of hypericin and rutin have been observed. RESULTS The most phototoxic sample was collected from Zumpano (no. 1 at 370 m), with IC50 values of 24.61 ± 0.02 μg/mL. Sample no. 1 showed also the best radical scavenging activity (IC50 value of 9.18 ± 0.03 μg/mL) and the best antioxidant activity (IC50 value of 10.04 ± 0.03 μg/mL after 30 min of incubation). Best activity of extract no. 1 was well in accordance with chemical data, including the phenolic total content and particular metabolome profile. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION This paper confirms the usefulness in maintaining the exploration of H. perforatum activities, in order to confirm its potentiality as a multipurpose plant.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mariangela Marrelli
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutrition Sciences, University of Calabria , Rende , Italy and
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Tundis R, Menichini F, Bonesi M, Conforti F, Statti G, Menichini F, Loizzo MR. Antioxidant and hypoglycaemic activities and their relationship to phytochemicals in Capsicum annuum cultivars during fruit development. Lebensm Wiss Technol 2013. [DOI: 10.1016/j.lwt.2013.02.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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Gu G, Barone I, Gelsomino L, Giordano C, Bonofiglio D, Statti G, Menichini F, Catalano S, Andò S. Oldenlandia diffusa extracts exert antiproliferative and apoptotic effects on human breast cancer cells through ERα/Sp1-mediated p53 activation. J Cell Physiol 2012; 227:3363-72. [PMID: 22213398 DOI: 10.1002/jcp.24035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
Breast cancer is the most frequent tumor and a major cause of death among women. Estrogens play a crucial role in breast tumor growth, which is the rationale for the use of hormonal antiestrogen therapies. Unfortunately, not all therapeutic modalities are efficacious and it is imperative to develop new effective antitumoral drugs. Oldenlandia diffusa (OD) is a well-known medicinal plant used to prevent and treat many disorders, especially cancers. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of OD extracts on breast cancer cell proliferation. We observed that OD extracts strongly inhibited anchorage-dependent and -independent cell growth and induced apoptosis in estrogen receptor alpha (ERα)-positive breast cancer cells, whereas proliferation and apoptotic responses of MCF-10A normal breast epithelial cells were unaffected. Mechanistically, OD extracts enhance the tumor suppressor p53 expression as a result of an increased binding of ERα/Sp1 complex to the p53 promoter region. Finally, we isolated ursolic and oleanolic acids as the bioactive compounds able to upregulate p53 expression and inhibit breast cancer cell growth. These acids were greatly effective in reducing tamoxifen-resistant growth of a derivative MCF-7 breast cancer cell line resistant to the antiestrogen treatment. Our results evidence how OD, and its bioactive compounds, exert antiproliferative and apoptotic effects selectively in ERα-positive breast cancer cells, highlighting the potential use of these herbal extracts as breast cancer preventive and/or therapeutic agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guowei Gu
- Lester and Sue Smith Breast Center and Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, One Baylor Plaza, Houston, TX, USA
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Tundis R, Bonesi M, Menichini F, Loizzo MR, Conforti F, Statti G, Pirisi FM, Menichini F. Antioxidant and anti-cholinesterase activity of Globularia meridionalis extracts and isolated constituents. Nat Prod Commun 2012; 7:1015-1020. [PMID: 22978219] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/01/2023] Open
Abstract
The antioxidant and anti-cholinesterase properties of Globularia meridionalis (Podp.) O. Schwarz (Globulariaceae) were investigated. G. meridionalis aerial parts and roots were extracted with methanol, and the total extract successively partitioned with n-hexane. The methanol fraction of the roots showed the highest antioxidant activity with IC50 values of 8.0 and 2.1 microg/mL in the DPPH and beta-carotene bleaching tests, respectively. From this fraction, three flavonoids, namely pectolinarigenin 7-O-beta-glucoside, apigenin 7-O-beta-glucoside and luteolin, and two phenylethanoids, namely acteoside and isoacteoside, were isolated. Potential anti-cholinesterase effects were assessed through the acetylcholinesterase (AChE) and butyrylcholinesterase (BChE) enzymes inhibition assay. The n-hexane fraction of the roots exhibited the highest activity against both AChE and BChE with IC50 values of 65.5 and 70.4 microg/mL, respectively.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rosa Tundis
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy and Nutrition and Health Sciences, University of Calabria, I-87030 Rende (CS), Italy.
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Tundis R, Loizzo MR, Menichini F, Bonesi M, Conforti F, Statti G, De Luca D, de Cindio B, Menichini F. Comparative study on the chemical composition, antioxidant properties and hypoglycaemic activities of two Capsicum annuum L. cultivars (Acuminatum small and Cerasiferum). Plant Foods Hum Nutr 2011; 66:261-269. [PMID: 21792679 DOI: 10.1007/s11130-011-0248-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
The present study aimed to evaluate for the first time the phenols, flavonoids, carotenoids, capsaicin and dihydrocapsaicin content and the antioxidant and hypoglycemic properties of Capsicum annuum var. acuminatum small and C. annuum var. cerasiferum air-dried fruits. The ethanol extract of C. annuum var. acuminatum small, characterized by the major content of total poliphenols, flavonoids, carotenoids and capsaicinoids, showed the highest radical scavenging activity (IC(50) of 152.9 μg/ml). On the contrary, C. annuum var. cerasiferum showed a significant antioxidant activity evaluated by the β-carotene bleaching test (IC(50) of 3.1 μg/ml). The lipophilic fraction of both C. annuum var. acuminatum and C. annuum var. cerasiferum exhibited an interesting and selective inhibitory activity against α-amylase (IC(50) of 6.9 and 20.1 μg/ml, respectively).
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Affiliation(s)
- Rosa Tundis
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy and Nutrition and Health Sciences, University of Calabria, Rende, CS, Italy.
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Conforti F, Marrelli M, Statti G, Menichini F, Uzunov D, Solimene U, Menichini F. Comparative chemical composition and antioxidant activity of Calamintha nepeta (L.) Savi subsp. glandulosa (Req.) Nyman and Calamintha grandiflora (L.) Moench (Labiatae). Nat Prod Res 2011; 26:91-7. [PMID: 21861645 DOI: 10.1080/14786419.2010.545356] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
Abstract
The two studied Calamintha species showed different polyphenolic content and sterol composition. Calamintha grandiflora possessed twice the polyphenolic content of Calamintha nepeta subsp. glandulosa, while the latter contained a higher number of sterols. Among them, stigmast-5-en-3β-ol was found to be the major constituent. The methanolic extract of C. grandiflora was more potent than the C. nepeta subsp. glandulosa methanolic extract in a DPPH assay, while the activity of the C. grandiflora EtOAc fraction was weaker than its C. nepeta subsp. glandulosa counterpart. Fractions of C. nepeta subsp. glandulosa showed higher activity using a β-carotene bleaching test. The petrol ether fraction of C. grandiflora showed significant inhibition of NO production.
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Affiliation(s)
- Filomena Conforti
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Nutritional and Health Sciences, University of Calabria, Italy
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40
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Tundis R, Loizzo MR, Bonesi M, Menichini F, Dodaro D, Passalacqua NG, Statti G, Menichini F. In vitrocytotoxic effects ofSenecio stabianusLacaita (Asteraceae) on human cancer cell lines. Nat Prod Res 2009; 23:1707-18. [DOI: 10.1080/14786410802194151] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
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Tundis R, Menichini F, Conforti F, Loizzo MR, Bonesi M, Statti G, Menichini F. A potential role of alkaloid extracts from Salsola species (Chenopodiaceae) in the treatment of Alzheimer's disease. J Enzyme Inhib Med Chem 2009; 24:818-24. [DOI: 10.1080/14756360802399662] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Rosa Tundis
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, Nutritional and Health Sciences, University of Calabria, I-87030, Rende (CS), Italy
| | - Federica Menichini
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, Nutritional and Health Sciences, University of Calabria, I-87030, Rende (CS), Italy
| | - Filomena Conforti
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, Nutritional and Health Sciences, University of Calabria, I-87030, Rende (CS), Italy
| | - Monica R. Loizzo
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, Nutritional and Health Sciences, University of Calabria, I-87030, Rende (CS), Italy
| | - Marco Bonesi
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, Nutritional and Health Sciences, University of Calabria, I-87030, Rende (CS), Italy
| | - Giancarlo Statti
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, Nutritional and Health Sciences, University of Calabria, I-87030, Rende (CS), Italy
| | - Francesco Menichini
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, Nutritional and Health Sciences, University of Calabria, I-87030, Rende (CS), Italy
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Conforti F, Marrelli M, Menichini F, Bonesi M, Statti G, Provenzano E, Menichini F. Natural and Synthetic Furanocoumarins as Treatment for Vitiligo and Psoriasis. CDTH 2009. [DOI: 10.2174/157488509787081886] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
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Tundis R, Loizzo MR, Bonesi M, Menichini F, FilomenaConforti, Statti G, Menichini F. Natural Products as Gastroprotective and Antiulcer Agents: Recent Developments. Nat Prod Commun 2008. [DOI: 10.1177/1934578x0800301234] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Peptic ulcer, one of the most common gastrointestinal diseases, is a chronic inflammatory disease characterized by ulceration in the regions of the upper gastrointestinal tract where parietal cells are found and where they secrete hydrochloric acid and pepsin. The anatomical sites where ulcer occurs commonly are stomach and duodenum, causing gastric and duodenal ulcer, respectively. Physiopathology of ulcer is due to an imbalance between aggressive factors, such as acid, pepsin, Helicobacter pylori and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory agents, and local mucosal defensive factors, such as mucus bicarbonate, blood flow and prostaglandins. Several drugs are widely used to prevent or treat gastro-duodenal ulcers. These include H2-receptor antagonists, proton pump inhibitors and cytoprotectives. Due to problems associated with recurrence after treatment, there is therefore the need to seek alternative drug sources against ulcers. In recent years, a widespread search has been launched to identify new gastroprotective drugs from natural sources. The aim of the present review is to highlight the recent advances in current knowledge on natural products as gastroprotective and antiulcer agents and consider the future perspectives for the use of these compounds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rosa Tundis
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, Nutritional and Health Sciences, University of Calabria, I-87030 Arcavacata di Rende (CS) Italy
| | - Monica R Loizzo
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, Nutritional and Health Sciences, University of Calabria, I-87030 Arcavacata di Rende (CS) Italy
| | - Marco Bonesi
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, Nutritional and Health Sciences, University of Calabria, I-87030 Arcavacata di Rende (CS) Italy
| | - Federica Menichini
- Pharmaceutical Sciences Research Division, King's College London, 150 Stamford Street, London SE1 9NH, UK
| | - FilomenaConforti
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, Nutritional and Health Sciences, University of Calabria, I-87030 Arcavacata di Rende (CS) Italy
| | - Giancarlo Statti
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, Nutritional and Health Sciences, University of Calabria, I-87030 Arcavacata di Rende (CS) Italy
| | - Francesco Menichini
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, Nutritional and Health Sciences, University of Calabria, I-87030 Arcavacata di Rende (CS) Italy
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Tundis R, Loizzo M, Menichini F, Statti G, Menichini F. Biological and Pharmacological Activities of Iridoids: Recent Developments. Mini Rev Med Chem 2008; 8:399-420. [DOI: 10.2174/138955708783955926] [Citation(s) in RCA: 203] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
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Conforti F, Statti G, Uzunov D, Menichini F. Comparative chemical composition and antioxidant activities of wild and cultivated Laurus nobilis L. leaves and Foeniculum vulgare subsp. piperitum (Ucria) coutinho seeds. Biol Pharm Bull 2006; 29:2056-64. [PMID: 17015951 DOI: 10.1248/bpb.29.2056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 107] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
The chemical composition and antioxidant activities of wild and cultivated Laurus nobilis leaves and Foeniculum vulgare subsp. piperitum seeds were determined. Differences were found in the total phenolic content of fennel. GC-MS analysis of the non polar fractions showed a different composition between wild and cultivated plants. Cultivated laurel had a high content of terpenes such as linool, alpha-terpinol, alpha-terpinyl acetate, thymol, caryophyllene, aromandrene, selinene, farnesene, and cadinene, while wild laurel had a high content of eugenol and methyl eugenol, vitamin E, and sterols. The antioxidant potential of the extracts was determined using three complementary methods. Wild plants showed greater radical scavenging activity than the cultivated plants. The extracts also exhibited a significant antioxidant capacity also in the beta-carotene-linoleic acid test system. A high level of antioxidant activity was observed in wild laurel (IC50 = 1 microg/ml). Significant antioxidant activity measured in bovine brain was observed in wild laurel.
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Affiliation(s)
- Filomena Conforti
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Calabria, Rende, Italy.
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Conforti F, Marrelli M, Statti G, Menichini F. Antioxidant and cytotoxic activities of methanolic extract and fractions from Senecio gibbosus subsp. gibbosus (GUSS) DC. Nat Prod Res 2006; 20:805-12. [PMID: 16753917 DOI: 10.1080/14786410500277761] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to evaluate the in vitro antioxidant and cytotoxic activities of the methanolic extract and fractions of Senecio gibbosus subsp. gibbosus aerial parts. The antioxidant activity was assessed by means of two different tests: (1) bleaching of the stable 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazil (DPPH) radical; and (2) lipid peroxidation of liposomes which were prepared from bovine brain extract. In both tests used methanolic extract and AcOEt fraction showed a significant antioxidant effect. The cytotoxic activity of the methanolic extract and fractions was carried out using the SRB assay. The methanolic extract demonstrated a good cytotoxic activity against human breast cancer cell line (MCF-7) and human prostate cancer cell line (LNCaP). Dichloromethane and AcOEt fractions showed the greatest cytotoxic activity, particularly on LNCaP cell line.
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Affiliation(s)
- F Conforti
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Calabria, I-87036 Rende (CS), Italy.
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De Bartolo L, Morelli S, Gallo MC, Campana C, Statti G, Rende M, Salerno S, Drioli E. Effect of isoliquiritigenin on viability and differentiated functions of human hepatocytes maintained on PEEK-WC–polyurethane membranes. Biomaterials 2005; 26:6625-34. [PMID: 15927248 DOI: 10.1016/j.biomaterials.2005.04.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2005] [Accepted: 04/07/2005] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
In this study, we tested the ability of microporous membranes synthesised from a polymeric blend of modified polyetheretherketone (PEEK-WC) and polyurethane (PU) to support long-term maintenance and differentiation of human liver cells. The effect of isoliquiritigenin (ISL), which is a component of liquorice extract, exhibiting growth stimulatory and antiproliferative dose-dependent effect was investigated by comparing cultures treated with ISL with those untreated. To this purpose, flat-sheet membranes were prepared by a blend of PEEK-WC and PU polymers by phase inverse technique. The morphological and physico-chemical properties were characterised, respectively, by scanning electron microscopy and water contact angle measurements. Human hepatocytes cultured on PEEK-WC-PU membranes were constant up to 1 month albumin production and urea synthesis as well as the synthesis of total proteins. The liver-specific functions were expressed at high levels when cells were cultured on membranes with respect to collagen. Also the biotransformation functions were maintained for all culture periods: the ISL elimination rate increased during the culture time and high values were measured up to 22 days. Thereafter, a decrease was observed. ISL stimulated the proliferation of hepatocytes cultured on both substrata but did not affect their liver-specific functions. Hepatocytes cultured on PEEK-WC-PU membranes responded very well to ISL and expressed high levels of P450 cytochrome. These results demonstrated that long-term maintenance of human liver differentiation can be achieved on PEEK-WC-PU membranes. The incubation with ISL at the investigated concentration could stimulate the proliferation of human hepatocytes in biohybrid systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Loredana De Bartolo
- Institute on Membrane Technology, National Research Council of Italy, ITM-CNR, c/o University of Calabria, via P. Bucci cubo 17/C, 87030 Rende (CS), Italy.
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48
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Conforti F, Statti G, Loizzo MR, Sacchetti G, Poli F, Menichini F. In Vitro Antioxidant Effect and Inhibition of .ALPHA.-Amylase of Two Varieties of Amaranthus caudatus Seeds. Biol Pharm Bull 2005; 28:1098-102. [PMID: 15930754 DOI: 10.1248/bpb.28.1098] [Citation(s) in RCA: 88] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
This study reports on the biological properties, antioxidant and antidiabetic, of two varieties of Amaranthus caudatus seeds, Oscar blanco and Victor red. Oil, squalene and phenolic contents were also determined. Seeds of both investigated varieties were found to possess very different levels of squalene (2.2% in Oscar blanco variety and 7.5% in Victor red variety). Although the antioxidant activity of A. caudatus var. Oscar blanco and A. caudatus var. Victor red statistically did not differ significantly from each other (IC50 values of ethyl acetate extracts were 0.50 mg/ml and 0.62 mg/ml, respectively), significant differences were noticed in relation to antidiabetic activity (inhibition of alpha-amylase, EC 3.2.1.1) of methanolic extracts that showed 50.5% for A. caudatus var. Oscar blanco and 28% for A. caudatus var. Victor red at concentration of 25 microg/ml.
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Affiliation(s)
- Filomena Conforti
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Calabria, Rende, Italy.
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Conforti F, Statti G, Tundis R, Loizzo MR, Bonesi M, Menichini F, Houghton PJ. Antioxidant and cytotoxic activities ofRetama raetam subsp.Gussonei. Phytother Res 2004; 18:585-7. [PMID: 15305322 DOI: 10.1002/ptr.1496] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to evaluate the in vitro antioxidant and cytotoxic activities of the methanol extracts of Retama raetam subsp. gussonei leaves and seeds. The antioxidant activity of the extracts was assessed by means of two different tests: (1) bleaching of the stable 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazil (DPPH) radical; and (2) lipid peroxidation of liposomes which were prepared from bovine brain extract. In both tests used leaves extract showed a significant antioxidant effect. The extract of leaves also demonstrated a good cytotoxic activity against COR-L23 (large cell carcinoma) cell line.
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Affiliation(s)
- F Conforti
- Department of Pharmaceutical Science, University of Calabria, Rende, Italy.
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Maggiolini M, Statti G, Vivacqua A, Gabriele S, Rago V, Loizzo M, Menichini F, Amdò S. Estrogenic and antiproliferative activities of isoliquiritigenin in MCF7 breast cancer cells. J Steroid Biochem Mol Biol 2002; 82:315-22. [PMID: 12589938 DOI: 10.1016/s0960-0760(02)00230-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 120] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Licorice root contains chemically diverse compounds that exhibit estrogenic effects in vitro and in vivo. The chalcone isoliquiritigenin (ISL) is a component of licorice extract exhibiting either antitumorigenic activity or estrogen receptor (ER) alpha-dependent growth promoting effects on breast cancer cells. In order to contribute to a better understanding of this apparent paradox, we synthesized and ascertained the estrogenic properties of ISL using, as model systems, the hormone-sensitive MCF7 breast cancer cells and the steroid-independent HeLa cells. Transfection experiments reveal that ISL is able to transactivate the endogenous ER alpha in MCF7 cells and this is supported by the capability to induce down-regulation of ER alpha protein levels and up-regulation of pS2 mRNA. Moreover, by using chimeric proteins consisting of the hormone binding domains of ER alpha and ER beta fused to the Gal4 DNA binding domain, we have determined that ISL is an estrogenic agonist of both ER isoforms. As a biological counterpart, low and intermediate ISL concentrations that induce substantial transcriptional activity stimulate the proliferation of MCF7 cells. However, high levels of ISL become cytotoxic even in steroid-receptor negative HeLa cells. Thus, the activity of ISL and the balance between risk or chemopreventive factor for estrogen-dependent breast cancer may depend on dietary intake.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marcello Maggiolini
- Department of Pharmaco-Biology, University of Calabria, 87036 Rende (CS), Italy
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