Polyphenol-enriched extracts of Sarcopoterium spinosum fruits for counteracting lipid accumulation and oxidative stress in an in vitro model of hepatic steatosis

Sarcopoterium spinosum (L.) Spach is a Rosaceae shrub employed in the folk medicine in the Eastern Mediterranean basin. The previous few studies have focused on the S. spinosum roots, while the fruits have been poorly investigated. The present study aims to assess the biological properties of S. spinosum fruits collected in Lebanon and subjected to ethanolic, water or boiling water extraction. The extracts were compared for the phenol and flavonoid contents, and for the in vitro radical scavenging ability. The ethanolic extract (SEE) was selected and characterized by high-performance liquid chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry (HPLC-MS/MS) showing a phenolome rich in tannins (ellagitannins), flavonoids (quercetin derivatives), and triterpenes. The biological activity of SEE was tested on a cellular model of moderate steatosis consisting of lipid-loaded hepatic cells treated with increasing concentrations of SEE (1-25 μg/mL), or with corilagin or quercetin as comparison. In steatotic hepatocytes the SEE was able (i) to ameliorate the hepatosteatosis; (ii) to counteract the excess ROS and lipid peroxidation; (iii) to restore the impaired catalase activity. The results indicate that the ethanolic extract from S. spinosum fruits is endowed with relevant antisteatotic and antioxidant activities and might find application as nutraceutical product.

Characterization and Biological Activities of In Vitro Digested Olive Pomace Polyphenols Evaluated on Ex Vivo Human Immune Blood Cells

Olive pomace (OP) represents one of the main by-products of olive oil production, which still contains high quantities of health-promoting bioactive compounds. In the present study, three batches of sun-dried OP were characterized for their profile in phenolic compounds (by HPLC-DAD) and in vitro antioxidant properties (ABTS, FRAP and DPPH assays) before (methanolic extracts) and after (aqueous extracts) their simulated in vitro digestion and dialysis. Phenolic profiles, and, accordingly, the antioxidant activities, showed significant differences among the three OP batches, and most compounds showed good bioaccessibility after simulated digestion. Based on these preliminary screenings, the best OP aqueous extract (OP-W) was further characterized for its peptide composition and subdivided into seven fractions (OP-F). The most promising OP-F (characterized for its metabolome) and OP-W samples were then assessed for their potential anti-inflammatory properties in ex vivo human peripheral mononuclear cells (PBMCs) triggered or not with lipopolysaccharide (LPS). The levels of 16 pro-and anti-inflammatory cytokines were measured in PBMC culture media by multiplex ELISA assay, whereas the gene expressions of interleukin-6 (IL-6), IL-10 and TNF-α were measured by real time RT-qPCR. Interestingly, OP-W and PO-F samples had a similar effect in reducing the expressions of IL-6 and TNF-α, but only OP-W was able to reduce the release of these inflammatory mediators, suggesting that the anti-inflammatory activity of OP-W is different from that of OP-F.

Physico-Chemical Characterization of Keratin from Wool and Chicken Feathers Extracted Using Refined Chemical Methods

In this work, the characteristic structure of keratin extracted from two different kinds of industrial waste, namely sheep wool and chicken feathers, using the sulfitolysis method to allow film deposition, has been investigated. The structural and microscopic properties have been studied by means of scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Raman spectroscopy, atomic force microscopy (AFM), and infrared (IR) spectroscopy. Following this, small-angle X-ray scattering (SAXS) analysis for intermediate filaments has been performed. The results indicate that the assembly character of the fiber can be obtained by using the most suitable extraction method, to respond to hydration, thermal, and redox agents. The amorphous part of the fiber and medium range structure is variously affected by the competition between polar bonds (reversible hydrogen bonds) and disulfide bonds (DB), the covalent irreversible ones, and has been investigated by using fine structural methods such as Raman and SAXS, which have depicted in detail the intermediate filaments of keratin from the two different animal origins. The preservation of the secondary structure of the protein obtained does offer a potential for further application of the waste-obtained keratin in polymer films and, possibly, biocomposites.

Chemical, Antioxidant, and Antimicrobial Properties of the Peel and Male Flower By-Products of Four Varieties of Punica granatum L. Cultivated in the Marche Region for Their Use in Cosmetic Products

We are now seeing an increase in the production of agri-food waste, which is an essential resource for the recovery of bioactive compounds that may be employed as innovative natural ingredients in cosmetics. To date, the approach to cosmetics preservation has seen a significant shift in the search for biological components that give healthier alternatives for customers and help businesses operate in an environmentally friendly manner. To achieve this goal, we studied pomegranate extracts using the peel and, for the first time, extracts from the male flowers of a wide pomegranate variety cultivated in the Marche region, specifically, the Wonderful, Mollar de Elche, Parfianka, and less-studied G1 varieties. We studied the phenol compounds profile, antioxidant capacity, antimicrobial activity, and cell viability of the obtained pomegranate extracts. The identification and quantification of phenol compounds belonging to different classes, such as hydrolysable tannins, hydroxybenzoic acid, hydroxycinnamic acid, dihydroflavonol, gallocatechin, and anthocyanins, were performed using UPLC-ESI-MS/MS. Punicalagin isomers and punicalin resulted in the most abundant polyphenols found in the peel and male flower extracts. Mollar de Elche 2020 peel extract revealed a high concentration of punicalagin A and B (7206.4 mg/kg and 5812.9), while the content of gallic acid revealed high results in the G1 and Parfianka varieties. All extracts were spectrophotometrically analysed to determine their total phenol content (TPC) using the Folin–Ciocalteu method and their antioxidant capacity (AC). In terms of the total phenol obtained by the Folin–Ciocalteu colorimetric method, Mollar de Elche 2020 extracts reported the highest TPC content of 12.341 µmol GAE/g. Results revealed that the Mollar de Elche and Wonderful 2020 peel extracts demonstrated the highest TPC and AC. Furthermore, AC results indicated that the peel extracts displayed higher AC than the male flower extract due to the high punicalagin content detected by UPLC analysis. The antimicrobial activity testing revealed that the Wonderful and G1 2020 peel extracts resulted active against Escherichia coli, while all extracts exhibited promising anticandidal activity. Additionally, the cytocompatibility was evaluated in keratinocytes HaCaT cells by testing concentrations of pomegranate extracts ranging from 0.15 to 5.00 mg/mL. Extracts were non-toxic for the cells in the tested concentration range. The acquired results may help exploit pomegranate agri-food waste products provided by the Marche region’s short supply chain for their use as an antimicrobial and antioxidant booster in the formulation of cosmetic products.

Beneficial Effects of Carvacrol on In Vitro Models of Metabolically-Associated Liver Steatosis and Endothelial Dysfunction: A Role for Fatty Acids in Interfering with Carvacrol Binding to Serum Albumin

Background:

Carvacrol, a plant phenolic monoterpene, is largely employed as food additive and phytochemical.

Objective:

We aimed to assess the lipid lowering and protective effects of carvacrol in vitro using cellular models of hepatic steatosis and endothelial dysfunction. We also investigated if and how the binding of carvacrol to albumin, the physiological transporter for small compounds in the blood, might be altered by the presence of high levels of fatty acids (FAs).

Methods:

Hepatic FaO cells treated with exogenous FAs mimic hepatosteatosis; endothelial HECV cells exposed to hydrogen peroxide are a model of endothelial dysfunction. In these models, we measured spectrophotometrically lipid accumulation and release, lipoperoxidation, free radical production, and nitric oxide release before and after treatment with carvacrol. The carvacrol binding to albumin in the presence or absence of high levels of FAs was assessed by absorption and emission spectroscopies.

Results:

Carvacrol counteracted lipid accumulation and oxidative stress in hepatocytes and protected endothelial cells from oxidative stress and dysfunction. Moreover, high levels of FAs reduced the binding of carvacrol to albumin.

Conclusion:

The results suggest the good potential of carvacrol in ameliorating dysfunction of hepatic and endothelial cells in vitro. High levels of circulating FAs might compete with carvacrol for binding to albumin thus influencing its transport and bio-distribution.

Dually Cross-Linked Core-Shell Structure Nanohydrogel with Redox-Responsive Degradability for Intracellular Delivery

A redox-responsive nanocarrier is a promising strategy for the intracellular drug release because it protects the payload, prevents its undesirable leakage during extracellular transport, and favors site-specific drug delivery. In this study, we developed a novel redox responsive core-shell structure nanohydrogel prepared by a water in oil nanoemulsion method using two biocompatible synthetic polymers: vinyl sulfonated poly(N-(2-hydroxypropyl) methacrylamide mono/dilactate)-polyethylene glycol-poly(N-(2-hydroxypropyl) methacrylamide mono/dilactate) triblock copolymer, and thiolated hyaluronic acid. The influence on the nanohydrogel particle size and distribution of formulation parameters was investigated by a three-level full factorial design to optimize the preparation conditions. The surface and core-shell morphology of the nanohydrogel were observed by scanning electron microscope, transmission electron microscopy, and further confirmed by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and Raman spectroscopy from the standpoint of chemical composition. The redox-responsive biodegradability of the nanohydrogel in reducing environments was determined using glutathione as reducing agent. A nanohydrogel with particle size around 250 nm and polydispersity index around 0.1 is characterized by a thermosensitive shell which jellifies at body temperature and crosslinks at the interface of a redox-responsive hyaluronic acid core via the Michael addition reaction. The nanohydrogel showed good encapsulation efficiency for model macromolecules of different molecular weight (93% for cytochrome C, 47% for horseradish peroxidase, and 90% for bovine serum albumin), capacity to retain the peroxidase-like enzymatic activity (around 90%) of cytochrome C and horseradish peroxidase, and specific redox-responsive release behavior. Additionally, the nanohydrogel exhibited excellent cytocompatibility and internalization efficiency into macrophages. Therefore, the developed core-shell structure nanohydrogel can be considered a promising tool for the potential intracellular delivery of different pharmaceutical applications, including for cancer therapy.

Antioxidant and Antisteatotic Activities of Fucoidan Fractions from Marine and Terrestrial Sources

Fucoidan is a fucose-rich sulfated polysaccharide typically found in the cell wall of marine algae but also recently isolated from terrestrial sources. Due to a variety of biological activities, including antioxidant properties, fucoidan exhibits an attractive therapeutic potential against a wide array of metabolic diseases associated with oxidative stress. We used FTIR, 1H NMR and 13C NMR spectroscopy to investigate the structural features of a fucoidan fraction extracted from the brown alga Cystoseira compressa (CYS). The antioxidant potential of CYS was measured by DPPH, ABTS and FRAP assays, which revealed a radical scavenging capacity that was confirmed in in vitro cellular models of hepatic and endothelial cells. The same antioxidant effects were observed for another fucoidan fraction previously identified in the terrestrial tree Eucalyptus globulus (EUC). Moreover, in hepatic cells, CYS and EUC exhibited a significant antisteatotic action, being able to reduce intracellular triglyceride content through the regulation of key genes of hepatic lipid metabolism. EUC exerted stronger antioxidant and antisteatotic effects as compared to CYS, suggesting that both marine and terrestrial sources should be considered for fucoidan extraction and therapeutic applications.

Tart Cherry Juice and Seeds Affect Pro-Inflammatory Markers in Visceral Adipose Tissue of High-Fat Diet Obese Rats

BACKGROUND

Tart cherries (Prunus cerasus L.) are a rich source of anthocyanins. They are phytochemical flavonoids found in red and blue fruits, and vegetables that can reduce hyperlipidemia. Visceral Adipose Tissue (VAT) has emerged as a major player in driving obesity-related inflammatory response.

METHODS

This study has investigated the potential positive effects of tart cherries on rats with Diet-Induced Obesity (DIO). In particular, the inflammatory status in retroperitoneal (RPW) and perigonadal (PGW) adipose tissue were studied. Rats were fed ad libitum for 17 weeks with a hypercaloric diet with the supplementation of tart cherries seeds powder (DS) and seeds powder plus tart cherries juice containing 1mg of anthocyanins (DJS). In RPW and PGW, expression of CRP, IL-1 β, TNF-α, CCL2 and CD36, were measured by qRT-PCR, Western blot and immunohistochemistry techniques.

RESULTS

No differences in the weight of RPW and PGW animals were found between DS and DJS groups compared to DIO rats. However, an increase of inflammatory markers was observed in DIO group in comparison with control lean rats. A modulation of these markers was evident upon tart cherry supplementation.

CONCLUSION

Study results suggest that tart cherry enriched-diet did not modify the accumulation of visceral fat, but it decreased inflammatory markers in both tissues. Therefore, this supplementation could be useful, in combination with healthy lifestyles, to modify adipose tissue cell metabolism limiting-obesity related organ damage.

Antioxidant and Antisteatotic Activities of a New Fucoidan Extracted from Ferula hermonis Roots Harvested on Lebanese Mountains

Fucoidan is a fucose-rich sulfated polysaccharide with attractive therapeutic potential due to a variety of biological activities, including antioxidant action. Fucoidan is typically found in the cell wall of marine brown algae, but extra-algal sources have also been discovered. In the present work, for the first time we extracted a water soluble fucoidan fraction from the roots of the terrestrial shrub Ferula hermonis. This fucoidan fraction was termed FUFe, and contained fucose, glucose, sulfate, smaller amounts of monosaccharides such as galactose and mannose, and a minor quantity of proteins. FUFe structural features were investigated by FTIR, 1H NMR and 13C NMR spectroscopy. The antioxidant property of FUFe was measured by DPPH, ABTS and FRAP assays, which revealed a high radical scavenging capacity that was confirmed in in vitro cellular models. In hepatic and endothelial cells, 50 μg/mL FUFe could reduce ROS production induced by intracellular lipid accumulation. Moreover, in hepatic cells FUFe exhibited a significant antisteatotic action, being able to reduce intracellular triglyceride content and to regulate the expression of key genes of hepatic lipid metabolism. Altogether, our results candidate FUFe as a possible bioactive compound against fatty liver disease and related vascular damage.

Multi-Targeted Anticancer Activity of Imidazolate Phosphane Gold(I) Compounds by Inhibition of DHFR and TrxR in Breast Cancer Cells

A class of phosphane gold(I) compounds, made of azoles and phosphane ligands, was evaluated for a screening on the regards of Breast Cancer cell panels (BC). The compounds possess N-Au-P or Cl-Au-P bonds around the central metal, and they differ for the presence of aprotic or protic polar groups in the azoles and/or the phosphane moieties to tune their hydrophilicity. Among the six candidates, only the compounds having the P-Au-N environment and not displaying neither the hydroxyl nor carboxyl groups in the ligands were found active. The compounds were screened by MTT tests in SKBR3, A17, and MDA-MB231 cancer cells, and two compounds (namely the 4,5-dicyano-imidazolate-1yl-gold(I)-(triphenylphosphane, 5, and 4,5-dichloro-imidazolate-1yl-gold(I)-triphenylphosphane, 6) were found very cytotoxic, with the most active with an IC₅₀ value of 3.46 μM in MDA-MB231 cells. By performing enzymatic assays in the treated cells lysates, the residual enzymatic activity of dihydrofolate reductase (DHFR) has been measured after cell treatment for 4 or 12 h in comparison with control cells. Upon 12 h of treatment, the activity of DHFR was significantly reduced in both SKBR3 and A17 cells by compounds 5 and 6, but not in human MDA-MB231 cells; interestingly, it was found remarkably high after 4 h of treatment, revealing a time dependence for the DHFR enzymatic assays. The DHFR inhibition data have been compared to those for the thioredoxin reductase (TrxR), the most recognized molecular target for gold compounds. For this latter, similar residual activities (i.e., 37 and 49% for the match of SKBR3 cells and compound 5 or 6, respectively) were found. Binding studies on the regards of ct-DNA (calf-thymus-DNA) and of plasma transporters proteins, such as BSA (bovine serum albumin) and ATF (apo transferrin), were performed. As expected for gold compounds, the data support strong binding to proteins (K_sv values range: 1.51 ÷ 2.46 × 10⁴ M⁻¹) and a weaker interaction with ct-DNA's minor groove (K_sv values range: 1.55 ÷ 6.12 × 10³ M⁻¹).

Tart cherry (Prunus cerasus L.) dietary supplement modulates visceral adipose tissue CB1 mRNA levels along with other adipogenesis-related genes in rat models of diet-induced obesity

PURPOSE

There is increasing evidence for the involvement of dietary bioactive compounds in the cross-talk modulation of endocannabinoid system and some of the key regulators of transcriptional control for adipogenesis.

METHODS

We aimed to characterize the expression of cannabinoid CB1/CB2 receptors and fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH) along with selected adipogenesis-related genes (PPARγ, SREBP-1c and PREF-1), adipocyte-secreted factors (leptin and adiponectin), mitochondrial bioenergetic modulators (PGC-1A and UCP-2), and transient receptor potential vanilloid subtype 1 (TRPV1) and 2 (TRPV2) channels in visceral adipose tissue of rats fed with a high-fat diet (HFD) containing either tart cherry seeds alone or tart cherry seeds and juice for 17 weeks. The visceral adipose tissue was weighed and checked the expression of different markers by qRT-PCR, Western blot and immunohistochemistry.

RESULTS

Tart cherry supplements were able to downregulate the HFD-induced mRNA expression of CB1 receptor, SREBP-1c, PPARγ, leptin, TRPV1 and TRPV2 resulting in potential anti-adipogenic effects.

CONCLUSION

The present study points out that the intake of bioactive constituents of tart cherry may attenuate the effect of adipogenesis by acting directly on the adipose tissue and modulating the interplay between CB1, PPARγ and TRPV channel gene transcription.

Evaluation of anticancer role of a novel ruthenium(II)-based compound compared with NAMI-A and cisplatin in impairing mitochondrial functionality and promoting oxidative stress in triple negative breast cancer models

Platinum-based compounds are the most widely used anticancer drugs but, their elevated toxicity and chemoresistance has stimulated the study of others, such as ruthenium-based compounds. NAMI-A and UNICAM-1 were tested in vitro, comparing the mechanisms of toxicity, in terms of mitochondrial functionality and cellular oxidative stress. UNICAM-1, showed a clear mitochondrial target and a cytotoxic dose-dependent response thanks to its ability to promote an imbalance of cellular redox status. It impaired directly mitochondrial respiratory chain, promoting mitochondrial superoxide anion production, leading to mitochondrial membrane depolarization. All these aspects, could make UNICAM-1 a valid alternative for chemotherapy treatment of breast cancer.

Protective effects of extracts from Ephedra foeminea Forssk fruits against oxidative injury in human endothelial cells

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Ephedra foeminea is a member of the Ephedraceae family which is widespread in the eastern Mediterranean area. In Lebanon, Ephedra is a popular remedy in traditional medicine to prevent and/or counteract many stress oxidative-related diseases like inflammation and bacterial infections.

AIM OF THE STUDY

Oxidative stress leads to endothelial cell dysfunction, and is a major factor contributing to etiology of atherosclerosis and related diseases. This study aims to investigate the antioxidant and cytoprotective potential of extracts from E. foeminea fruits on human endothelial cells exposed to hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂) to mimic in vitro vascular endothelium dysfunction.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Different extracts of E. foeminea fruits were prepared using pure ethanol (EE), methanol/water (EMW), pure hexane (Ehex) or ethyl acetate/water (Epoly) as extraction solvents. The phenolome profile of each extract was characterized using high-performance liquid chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry (HPLC-MS/MS). Total phenolic and flavonoid content, and radical scavenging properties of the extracts were assessed spectrophotometrically. Then, the effects on human endothelial cells HECV were evaluated.

RESULTS

Epoly extract showed the highest phenol and flavonoid content, and the highest radical scavenging capacity. On H₂O₂-insulted HECV cells Epoly was able: (i) to counteract the ROS/RNS production and lipid peroxidation; (ii) to rescue the ROS-dependent decrease in the mitochondrial membrane potential; (iii) to counteract the apoptosis induction; (iv) to restore endothelial cell viability and migration.

CONCLUSIONS

The findings indicated that the polyphenol-enriched extract Epoly from E. foeminea fruits is endowed with in vitro anti-oxidant and anti-apoptotic effects and might be used as nutraceutical for treating ROS-related endothelium dysfunction and inflammation.

Hairy Garlic (Allium subhirsutum) from Sicily (Italy): LC-DAD-MSn Analysis of Secondary Metabolites and In Vitro Biological Properties

Allium subhirsutum, known as hairy garlic, is a bulbous plant widespread in the Mediterranean area and locally used as a food and spice. In the present study, the chemical profile of the ethanolic extracts from bulbs (BE) and aerial parts (APE) were analyzed by HPLC-ESI-MSⁿ, and antioxidant properties were evaluated by DPPH, ABTS and TEAC assays. The traditional use in the diet, and the well documented biological activity of Allium species suggest a potential as a new nutraceutical. For this reason, the potential usefulness of this food can be considered in the treatment and prevention of degenerative Alzheimer disease. For this reason, acetylcholinesterase inhibitory property was investigated. Furthermore, due to the observed presence of sulfur-containing and phenolic constituents, the cytotoxicity on tumor cells line was investigated. Results revealed significant AChE inhibitory activity for BE and APE. Both extracts exhibited also moderate antioxidant properties in the in vitro assays. Finally, limited cytotoxic activity was observed towards Human colon carcinoma and adenocarcinoma cell line, with differences between the individual parts tested. HPLC-ESI-MSⁿ analysis showed that hairy garlic is a good source of sulphur compounds, flavonoids and phenylpropanoids derivatives, thus being a valid alternative to the common garlic (A. sativum). This work opens new opportunities for the application of A. subhirsutum as a health-promoting food.

Brain alterations in high fat diet induced obesity: effects of tart cherry seeds and juice

Evidence suggests that obesity adversely affects brain function. High body mass index, hypertension, dyslipidemia, insulin resistance, and diabetes are risk factors for increasing cognitive decline. Tart cherries (Prunus Cerasus L.) are rich in anthocyanins and components that modify lipid metabolism. This study evaluated the effects of tart cherries on the brain in diet-induced obese (DIO) rats. DIO rats were fed with a high-fat diet alone or in association with a tart cherry seeds powder (DS) and juice (DJS). DIO rats were compared to rats fed with a standard diet (CHOW). Food intake, body weight, fasting glycemia, insulin, cholesterol, and triglycerides were measured. Immunochemical and immunohistochemical techniques were performed. Results showed that body weight did not differ among the groups. Blood pressure and glycemia were decreased in both DS and DJS groups when compared to DIO rats. Immunochemical and immunohistochemical techniques demonstrated that in supplemented DIO rats, the glial fibrillary acid protein expression and microglial activation were reduced in both the hippocampus and in the frontal cortex, while the neurofilament was increased. Tart cherry intake modified aquaporin 4 and endothelial inflammatory markers. These findings indicate the potential role of this nutritional supplement in preventing obesity-related risk factors, especially neuroinflammation.

Antioxidant and Enzyme Inhibitory Properties of the Polyphenolic-Rich Extract from an Ancient Apple Variety of Central Italy (Mela Rosa dei Monti Sibillini)

This study was undertaken to evaluate the nutraceutical potential of the Mela Rosa dei Monti Sibillini (MR), an ancient apple variety of the Sibillini Mountains, central Italy. The chemical profile of the apple’s polyphenolic-rich extract (MRE) obtained from first- and second-choice samples using the Amberlite^® XAD7HP resin was analyzed by High Performance Liquid Chromatography with Diode-Array and Mass spectrometry (HPLC-DAD-MS) and 21 phytochemicals were quali–quantitatively determined. For comparative purposes, the polyphenol-rich extract of Annurca (ANE), a southern Italian variety, was analyzed. The antioxidant capacity of MREs was evaluated by Folin–Ciocalteu, 1, 1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), and 2, 2′-azino-bis (3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulphonic acid) (ABTS) assays. The inhibitory capacity of MREs for the enzymes α-glucosidase, lipase, monoamine oxidase A, tyrosinase, and acetylcholinesterase was also determined. The MREs showed higher polyphenolic and triterpene profiles than the ANE. Their radical scavenging activity was higher than that of ANE and comparable to the reference trolox. The MRE from the second-choice apples displayed higher contents of the 21 phytochemicals investigated. Either MRE from second-choice or first-choice samples showed enzymatic inhibition with IC₅₀ values higher than those of reference inhibitors but worthy of nutraceutical consideration. Taken together, these results show the potential of MRE as a source of bioactive compounds to be used for pharmaceutical, nutraceutical, and cosmeceutical applications has been confirmed.

Exploring new applications of tulip tree (Liriodendron tulipifera L.): leaf essential oil as apoptotic agent for human glioblastoma

Liriodendron tulipifera L. (Magnoliaceae), also known as "tulip tree," is a hardwood plant native to North America, cultivated all over the world and used on an industrial level, especially for its fine wood and to make honey. It has also been traditionally exploited for its antimalarial properties. However, our knowledge about the bioactivity of its essential oil remains patchy. In this research, we focused on the biological evaluation of the volatile fractions obtained from different parts of the plant which are normally discharged by industry, including leaves, flowers, and fruits. For the purpose, the essential oils were obtained by hydrodistillation and analyzed by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). Then, they were evaluated as radical scavenging, antioxidant, antimicrobial, and antiproliferative agents by using DPPH, ABTS, FRAP, disk diffusion, and MTT methods, respectively. The significant toxicity exhibited on human tumor cells, namely A375 malignant melanoma, HCT116 colon carcinoma, MDA-MB 231 breast adenocarcinoma, and T98G glioblastoma multiforme cell lines, prompted us to study the mechanism of action by acridine orange/ethidium bromide double staining and caspase 3 assays. Our findings shed light on the potential applications of tulip tree derivatives as anticancer drugs.

The Nonvolatile and Volatile Metabolites of Prangos ferulacea and Their Biological Properties

Prangos ferulacea (L.) Lindl. (Fam. Apiaceae), an orophilous species of eastern Mediterranean and western Asia, possesses a number of biological properties that are worthy of exploitation in different fields. Phytochemical investigations revealed the presence of coumarins, prenyl-coumarins, and furano-coumarins as the main constituents of this species, as well as several flavonoids. Among prenyl-coumarins, osthol is a promising apoptotic agent quite selective toward cancer cells. In addition, the essential oils have been extensively investigated, and several chemotypes have been identified. This work reviews the literature on this species published between 1965 and 2018, describes its volatile and nonvolatile metabolites, and outlines its pharmacological effects.

Composition and biological activities of the essential oil from a Sicilian accession of Prangos ferulacea (L.) Lindl

Prangos ferulacea (L.) Lindl. (Fam. Apiaceae), is an orophilous species of eastern Mediterranean and western Asia which possesses several biological properties, which are worthy of exploitation in different fields. With the aim to provide new insights into the phytochemistry and pharmacology of this species, a local accession growing in Sicily (South Italy) was investigated as well. Notably, the P. ferulacea essential oil chemical composition and the antioxidant, anti-acetylcholinesterase (AChE) and cytotoxic activities have been studied. This analysis allowed to identify a new chemotype and to report good biological results for this oil.

Exploring the Insecticidal Potential of Boldo (Peumus boldus) Essential Oil: Toxicity to Pests and Vectors and Non-target Impact on the Microcrustacean Daphnia magna

Every year Chile exports about 2000 tons of boldo folium (Peumus boldus), which is used around the world as a traditional herbal medicinal product (THMP), mostly to relieve gastrointestinal disorders. This biomass may be a resource for the agrochemical industry to manufacture botanical insecticides. In this regard, the insecticidal potential of boldo has been poorly investigated. In the present work, hydrodistillation of a commercial boldo folium gave 1.5% (w/w) of a yellowish essential oil (boldo essential oil, BEO) containing 1,8-cineole (20.7%), p-cymene (18.5%), limonene (9.1%), ascaridole (9.1%) and β-phellandrene (6.4%) as the main constituents, as determined by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). NMR analysis allowed us to determine that ascaridole was mainly represented by the cis-isomer. BEO was toxic to larvae of the filariasis vector Culex quinquefasciatus and adults of the housefly Musca domestica, showing LC50/LD50 values of 67.9 mg·L-1 and 98.5 µg·adult-1, respectively. On the other hand, lower insecticidal activity was observed against larvae of the moth pest Spodoptera littoralis (LD50 of 268.9 µg·larva-1). It is worth noting that, when tested at LC90 concentration, BEO was significantly less toxic to aquatic microcrustacean Daphnia magna than the conventional insecticide α-cypermethrin. Finally, in the attempt to explore the BEO mode of action, we tested it for acetylcholinesterase (AChE) inhibitory properties using the Ellman method, obtaining negligible effects (IC50 = 0.45 mg·mL-1). Taken together, these results gave new insights into the potential of BEO as a future ingredient of botanical insecticides.

Chemical composition and biological activities of the essential oil from Pulicaria undulata (L.) C. A. Mey. growing wild in Egypt

Pulicaria undulata is used as a traditional herbal remedy in Egypt. We used gas chromatography-mass spectrometry for analysis of essential oil of this plant growing wild in Egypt and 64 compounds were identified. The oil was rich in oxygenated monoterpenes (64.0%) and aromatic derivatives (18.8%). The major components were carvacrol (46.5%), xanthoxylin (18.1%) and carvotanacetone (8.7%). The oil of the Egyptian plant showed significant differences from the oil results reported on this species derived from different accessions. Antioxidant activity was performed by FRAP, DPPH and ABTS assays, and the oil demonstrated a powerful antioxidant properties. Furthermore, cytotoxicity was assessed using MTT assay against three cell lines (A375, T98G, HCT116) and the oil showed moderate results with IC₅₀ of 18.53, 40.64 and 22.23 μg/ml; respectively. The oil showed a good anti-acetylcholinesterase activity (IC₅₀ = 139.2 μg/ml) using Ellman method. In conclusion, the studied oil exhibited a peculiar fingerprint and promising biological activities.

Bioactive Constituents of Juniperus turbinata Guss. from La Maddalena Archipelago

A comprehensive phytochemical study of Juniperus turbinata (Cupressaceae) collected from La Maddalena Archipelago (Sardinia, Italy) is reported. Both the essential oil and the ethanolic extract obtained from the aerial parts were analyzed. The essential oil appears to belong to a new chemotype compared to other Mediterranean juniper accessions, as it was favored by geographic isolation of the isles. It showed a low content of monoterpene hydrocarbons and α-terpineol, ent-manoyl oxide, 1,10-di-epi-cubenol as the major constituents. The ethanolic fraction contained mainly diterpenoids. Among these, 15-formyloxyimbricatolic acid (7) is a new natural product since it has hitherto been obtained only by synthetic route. The phenolic fraction contained biflavonoids: cupressuflavone (9), followed by minor amounts of amentoflavone (10) and hinokiflavone (11). The essential oil and six purified compounds (1 - 4, 8 and 9) were assessed for biological activities, namely antioxidant (assessed by DPPH^· , ABTS^·+ and FRAP methods) and cytotoxic effects towards selected human tumor cell lines (MDA-MB 231, A375 and HCT116 cells). Compound 3 exhibited higher radical scavenging activity against ABTS^·+ radical than the reference Trolox. Noteworthy, compound 8 showed powerful effects towards tumor cell lines, with IC₅₀ values in the range of 0.060 - 0.201 μm, which make it a promising anticancer drug candidate.

Nano-medicine Improving the Bioavailability of Small Molecules for the Prevention of Neurodegenerative Diseases

Neurodegenerative diseases, including Parkinson's and Alzheimer's, are a heterogeneous group of brain disorders characterized by the progressive degeneration of the structure and function of the central or peripheral nervous system. It is thought that the number of people affected by these pathologies will increase in future decades, particularly in the more economically developed countries, where the populations are experiencing a demographic shift towards older ages. For many of these pathologies, and in particular for Alzheimer's disease, no effective treatments are available, and the consequent economic and social costs are very high. Scientific progress in recent decades has provided a better understanding of the genetic and biological mechanisms responsible for these neurodegenerative diseases, and offers the hope for new therapeutic approaches in the near future. Meanwhile, the lack of effective therapies for these diseases has caused researchers to focus attention on the powerful opportunity of prevention, seen on the one hand as a series of healthcare measures and patient behaviors, and on the other hand as treatments exploiting several molecules or compounds with the potential to slow down the appearance of the first signs of pathology or even to prevent these diseases. Among these, curcumin, flavonoids, such as quercetin, Gingko biloba, and folic acid have attracted the attention of scientists, and ways are being explored to increase their effectiveness and bioavailability in the site of action. Most molecules suffer from problems of solubility, or bioavailability, or the ability to cross the blood brain barrier, and one solution to this limitation being explored is nanomedicine. Polymeric nanoparticles, as well as liposomes, and functionalized nanosystems may overcome several bioavailability limits of active molecules and increase their effectiveness in the brain. This review offers an overview of small molecules that may prove effective in preventing neurodegenerative diseases, and describes the strategies in nanomedicine that are being studied to improve their bioavailability.

Clausena anisata and Dysphania ambrosioides essential oils: from ethno-medicine to modern uses as effective insecticides

Dysphania ambrosioides (L.) Mosyakin & Clemants (Amaranthaceae) and Clausena anisata (Willd.) Hook. f. ex Benth. (Rutaceae) are two aromatic species traditionally used in Cameroon to repel and kill insects. The present work was carried out to substantiate this traditional use and to evaluate the possible incorporation in commercial botanical insecticides of their essential oils (EOs). The EOs were distilled from leaves of C. anisata and aerial parts of D. ambrosioides and analyzed by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). The insecticidal activity of both EOs was investigated against the filariasis vector, Culex quinquefasciatus, and the housefly, Musca domestica. As possible mode of action, the inhibition of acetylcholinesterase (AChE) by the two EOs was investigated as well. The D. ambrosioides EO was characterized by the monoterpene peroxide ascaridole (61.4%) and the aromatic p-cymene (29.0%), whereas the C. anisata EO was dominated by the phenylpropanoids (E)-anethole (64.6%) and (E)-methyl isoeugenol (16.1%). The C. anisata EO proved to be very toxic to third instar larvae of C. quinquefasciatus showing LC₅₀ of 29.3 μl/l, whereas D. ambrosioides EO was more toxic to adults of M. domestica showing a LD₅₀ of 51.7 μg/adult. The mixture of both EOs showed a significant synergistic effect against mosquito larvae with LC₅₀ estimated as 19.3 μl/l, whereas this phenomenon was not observed upon application to M. domestica adults (LD₅₀ = 75.9 μg/adult). Of the two EOs, the D. ambrosioides one provided a good inhibition of AChE (IC₅₀ = 77 μg/ml), whereas C. anisata oil was not effective. These findings provide new evidences supporting the ethno-botanical use of these two Cameroonian plants, and their possible application even in synergistic binary blends, to develop new eco-friendly, safe and effective herbal insecticides.

The crop-residue of fiber hemp cv. Futura 75: from a waste product to a source of botanical insecticides

In the attempt to exploit the potential of the monoecious fiber hemp cv. Futura 75 in new fields besides textile, cosmetics and food industry, its crop-residue given by leaves and inflorescences was subjected to hydrodistillation to obtain the essential oils. These are niche products representing an ideal candidate for the development of natural insecticides for the control and management of mosquito vectors, houseflies and moth pests. After GC-MS analysis highlighting a safe and legal chemical profile (THC in the range 0.004-0.012% dw), the leaf and inflorescence essential oils were investigated for the insecticidal potential against three insect targets: the larvae of Culex quinquefasciatus and Spodoptera littoralis and the adults of Musca domestica. The essential oil from inflorescences, showing (E)-caryophyllene (21.4%), myrcene (11.3%), cannabidiol (CBD, 11.1%), α-pinene (7.8%), terpinolene (7.6%), and α-humulene (7.1%) as the main components, was more effective than leaf oil against these insects, with LD₅₀ values of 65.8 μg/larva on S. littoralis, 122.1 μg/adult on M. domestica, and LC₅₀ of 124.5 μl/l on C. quinquefasciatus larvae. The hemp essential oil moderately inhibited the acetylcholinesterase (AChE), which is a target enzyme in pesticide science. Overall, these results shed light on the future application of fiber hemp crop-residue for the development of effective, eco-friendly and sustainable insecticides.

Antidiabetic "gliptins" affect biofilm formation by Streptococcus mutans

Streptococcus mutans, a dental caries causing odontopathogen, produces X-prolyl dipeptidyl peptidase (Sm-XPDAP, encoded by pepX), a serine protease known to have a nutritional role. Considering the potential of proteases as therapeutic targets in pathogens, this study was primarily aimed at investigating the role of Sm-XPDAP in contributing to virulence-related traits. Dipeptidyl peptidase (DPP IV), an XPDAP analogous enzyme found in mammalian tissues,is a well known therapeutic target in Type II diabetes. Based on the hypothesis that gliptins, commonly used as anti-human-DPP IV drugs, may affect bacterial growth upon inhibition of Sm-XPDAP, we have determined their ex vivo antimicrobial and anti-biofilm activity towards S. mutans. All three DPP IV drugs tested reduced biofilm formation as determined by crystal violet staining. To link the observed biofilm inhibition to the human-DPP IV analogue present in S. mutans UA159, a pepX isogenic mutant was generated. In addition to reduced biofilm formation, CLSM studies of the biofilm formed by the pepX isogenic mutant showed these were comparable to those formed in the presence of saxagliptin, suggesting a probable role of this enzyme in biofilm formation by S. mutans UA159. The effects of both pepX deletion and DPP IV drugs on the proteome were studied using LC-MS/MS. Overall, this study highlights the potential of Sm-XPDAP as a novel anti-biofilm target and suggests a template molecule to synthesize lead compounds effective against this enzyme.

Ru(ii)-(PTA) and -mPTA complexes with N2-donor ligands bipyridyl and phenanthroline and their antiproliferative activities on human multiple myeloma cell lines

A series of novel ruthenium(ii) 2,2'-bipyridyl (bpy) and 1,10-phenanthroline (phen) derivatives containing PTA (1,3,5-triaza-7-phosphaadamantane) or mPTA (N-methyl-1,3,5-triaza-7-phosphaadamantane cation) have been synthesized and fully characterized. Three types of complexes have been obtained, neutral [Ru(N-N)(PTA)₂Cl₂] (1, N-N = bpy and 4, N-N = phen), monocationic [Ru(N-N)(PTA)₃Cl][Cl] (2, N-N = bpy and 5, N-N = phen) and dicationic [Ru(N-N)(mPTA)Cl₂][BF₄]₂ (3, N-N = bpy and 6, N-N = phen). The solid-state structures of four complexes have been determined by single-crystal X-ray diffraction. The cytotoxicity of the complexes has been evaluated in vitro against U266 and RPMI human multiple myeloma cells.

Cytotoxic Essential Oils from Eryngium campestre and Eryngium amethystinum (Apiaceae) Growing in Central Italy

Eryngium campestre and E. amethystinum are thorny herbs belonging to the Apiaceae family and spontaneously growing in stony pastures and dry meadows, preferentially on calcareous substrates. In the Mediterranean countries, these plants have been used as a food or traditional remedies to treat various ailments. In the present work, we have analyzed the chemical composition of the essential oils distilled from the aerial parts by GC-FID and GC/MS, and evaluated their cytotoxic effects on a panel of human cancer cells, namely A375 (human malignant melanoma), MDA-MB 231 cells (human breast adenocarcinoma), and HCT116 cells (human colon carcinoma), by the MTT assay. Furthermore, the Eryngium essential oils were evaluated for antioxidant and acetylcholinesterase (AChE) activities. The two essential oils were rich in sesquiterpene hydrocarbons, with germacrene D as the major compound, accompanied by allo-aromadendrene, β-elemene, spathulenol, and ledol. They turned out to be highly cytotoxic on the tumor cells, with IC₅₀ values (1.65 - 5.32 and 1.57 - 2.99 μg/ml for E. amethystinum and E. campestre, respectively) comparable or close to those of the anticancer drug cisplatin. The E. amethystinum essential oil exhibited a moderate antioxidant activity, whereas that of E. campestre a weak AChE inhibition.

Chemical composition, antioxidant activity and cytotoxicity on tumour cells of the essential oil from flowers of Magnolia grandiflora cultivated in Iran

Magnolia grandiflora (Magnoliaceae) is an evergreen tree with fragrant and showy flowers native to southeastern USA but widely cultivated all over the world and used in cosmetics industry in treatment of skin diseases. Here, we report on the chemical analysis of the essential oil obtained from flowers of plants cultivated in Iran, together with the evaluation of its antioxidant and cytotoxic activities. The essential oil composition was dominated by bioactive sesquiterpenes, namely β-elemene, bicyclogermacrene, germacrene D and (E)-caryophyllene. The oil exhibited moderate radical scavenging activity towards the [Formula: see text] radical, and mild non-selective inhibitory effects against A375, MDA-MB 231 and T98 G tumour cell lines. The latter were influenced by the presence of the anticancer β-elemene. These results provided new insights for potential application of M. grandiflora volatile oil in the pharmaceutical and cosmetics industry where only the non-volatile magnolol and honokiol have hitherto been fully exploited.

Rosmarinus eriocalyx: An alternative to Rosmarinus officinalis as a source of antioxidant compounds

Rosmarinus eriocalyx is an aromatic evergreen bush endemic to Algeria where it is used as a condiment to flavour soups and meat and as a traditional remedy. In the present work we have analyzed for the first time the phenolic composition of polar extracts obtained from stems, leaves and flowers of R. eriocalyx by HPLC, and determined the antioxidant and antimicrobial effects by DPPH, ABTS, FRAP, ORAC and agar disc diffusion methods, respectively. Results showed that ethanolic extracts of leaves and flowers are a rich source of phenolic compounds, mainly rosmarinic acid, carnosic acid and carnosol that are the main responsible for the noteworthy antioxidant activity observed in the assays. This study showed that R. eriocalyx might be a spice to be included in the European food additive list and used as a preservative agent besides R. officinalis.

Essential Oil of Thymus munbyanus subsp. coloratus from Algeria: Chemotypification and in vitro Biological Activities

Thymus munbyanus subsp. coloratus (Lamiaceae) is a small shrub endemic to Algeria and Morocco where is found in lawns, rockeries and mountainous regions. From a phytochemical point of view this taxon has never been characterized. In this work we have analysed the chemical compositions of the essential oils obtained from inflorescences and vegetative parts by GC/MS. A new chemotype, i.e. borneol-chemotype, was characterized for the first time in the species. Furthermore, we assessed the biological activities of essential oils, namely the antioxidant, antimicrobial and cytotoxicity on tumor cells that were evaluated by the DPPH, ABTS, and FRAP, disc diffusion, and MTT methods, respectively. Biological assays highlighted a moderate inhibitory effect on Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli and Candida albicans (inhibition zone diameter in the range 9 - 10 mm), and noteworthy cytotoxicity on A375 human melanoma cells (IC₅₀ of 46.95 μg/ml).

Secondary Metabolites, Glandular Trichomes and Biological Activity of Sideritis montana L. subsp. montana from Central Italy

Sideritis montana subsp. montana is a small annual herb occurring in countries bordering the Mediterranean and Balkan regions. The secondary metabolism of this plant has not been fully explored so far. The aim of the present study was to understand the complex mixture of secondary metabolites and the type of secretory structures. The polar constituents were isolated by column chromatography from the ethanolic extract, and their structure was elucidated by NMR and MS. The essential oil was isolated by hydrodistillation and analysed by GC/MS. The plant indumentum was studied by light and scanning electron microscopy. To complete the work, the essential oil antioxidant activity and cytotoxicity on tumor cells were evaluated by DPPH, ABTS, FRAP, and MTT methods. Four different classes of secondary metabolites were isolated, namely flavonoids, caffeoylquinic derivatives, glycosidic hydroquinones and iridoids. The essential oil was mainly characterized by sesquiterpenene hydrocarbons. Peltate and long-capitate hairs were the main sites where terpenes and polar constituents are produced. The secondary metabolites found in S. montana subsp. montana are of chemotaxonomic interest, some of them being typical of the genus Sideritis. The trichomes types observed partially differ from those described in other members of the genus Sideritis. The essential oil showed noteworthy inhibition on tumor cells.

Polar extracts from the berry-like fruits of Hypericum androsaemum L. as a promising ingredient in skin care formulations

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

The top flowering aerial parts of the Hypericum species are traditionally used to prepare ointments to heal cuts and burns. Sometimes even the fruits are used for these purposes. Hypericum androsaemum L., commonly known as tutsan or shrubby St. John's Wort, is a Mediterranean medicinal plant which has been traditionally used to prepare an ointment for treating cuts and wounds.

AIM OF THE STUDY

To evaluate the extracts obtained from H. androsaemum red berries as functional ingredients for skin care formulations.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The methanolic extract was obtained by Soxhlet extraction while the aqueous extract was prepared by decoction; their composition was determined by HPLC analysis. Their biological activities were measured in terms of proliferation and migration of human fibroblasts, inhibition of collagenase activity, and immunomodulatory effects on human peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs). In addition, we evaluated their photostability by UV spectroscopy and their protective effects against APPH-induced hemolysis in red blood cells (RBC).

RESULTS

The polar extracts contained significant amounts of shikimic (108,143.7-115,901.3mg/kg) and chlorogenic acids (45,781.1-57,002.7mg/kg). The main components of these extracts made an important contribution to a significant increase in human fibroblast migration. Both extracts were also active as collagenase inhibitors, with the aqueous one showing a greater inhibitory capacity (IC₅₀ value of 88.1µg/mL), similar to that of chlorogenic acid. The kinetic parameters determined for the enzymatic reaction revealed for both aqueous extract and chlorogenic acid an uncompetitive mechanism of inhibition. The methanolic extract showed important effects on PBMCs by modulating IL-6. Both extracts proved to be photostable in the UVA/B range and protected RBC against peroxidation at low concentrations.

CONCLUSIONS

H. androsaemum red berries were proven to contain phytochemicals that improve skin regeneration, hence potentially employable in skin care formulations.

In vitro and ex vivo activity of an Azadirachta indica A.Juss. seed kernel extract on early sporogonic development of Plasmodium in comparison with azadirachtin A, its most abundant constituent

BACKGROUND

NeemAzal^® (NA) is a quantified extract from seed kernels of neem, Azadirachta indica A.Juss. (Meliaceae), with a wide spectrum of biological properties, classically ascribed to its limonoid content. NA contains several azadirachtins (A to L), azadirachtin A (AzaA) being its main constituent. AzaA has been shown to inhibit microgamete formation of the rodent malaria parasite Plasmodium berghei, and NA was found to completely inhibit the transmission of Plasmodium berghei to Anopheles stephensi mosquitoes when administered to gametocytemic mice at a corresponding AzaA dose of 50mg/kg before exposure to mosquitoes.

PURPOSE

The present study was aimed at i) assessing the pharmacodynamics and duration of action of NA and AzaA against P. berghei exflagellation in systemic circulation in mice and ii) elucidating the transmission blocking activity (TBA) of the main NA constituents.

STUDY DESIGN

The NA and AzaA pharmacodynamics on exflagellation were assessed through ex vivo exflagellation assays, while TBA of NA constituents was evaluated through in vitro ookinete development assay.

METHODS

Pharmacodynamics experiments: Peripheral blood from P. berghei infected BALB/c mice with circulating mature gametocytes, were treated i.p. with 50mg/kg and 100mg/kg pure AzaA and with NeemAzal^® (Trifolio-M GmbH) at the corresponding AzaA concentrations. The effect magnitude and duration of action of compounds was estimated by counting exflagellation centers, formed by microgametocytes in process of releasing flagellated gametes, at various time points after treatment in ex vivo exflagellation tests. Ookinete Development Assay: The direct effects of NeemAzal^® and AzaA on ookinete development were measured by fluorescence microscopy after incubation of gametocytemic blood with various concentrations of test substances in microplates for 24h.

RESULTS

The exflagellation tests revealed an half-life of NA anti-plasmodial compounds of up to 7h at a NA dose corresponding to 100mg/kg equivalent dose of AzaA. The ookinete development assay showed an increased activity of NA against early sporogonic stages compared to that of AzaA. The IC₅₀ value determined for NA was 6.8µg/ml (CI₉₅: 5.95-7.86), about half of the AzaA IC₅₀ (12.4µg/ml; CI₉₅: 11.0-14.04).

CONCLUSION

The stronger activity of NA, when compared to AzaA, could not be explained by an additive or synergistic effect by other azadirachtins (B, D and I) present in NA. In fact, the addition of these compounds at 50µM concentration to AzaA did not evidence any decrease of the IC₅₀ against early sporogonic stages to that obtained with AzaA alone. It is likely that other non-limonoid compounds present in NA may contribute to AzaA activity and enhanced pharmacodynamics against exflagellation both in vitro and in vivo.

Biological Activities of the Essential Oil from Erigeron floribundus

Erigeron floribundus (Asteraceae) is an herbaceous plant widely used in Cameroonian traditional medicine to treat various diseases of microbial and non-microbial origin. In the present study, we evaluated the in vitro biological activities displayed by the essential oil obtained from the aerial parts of E. floribundus, namely the antioxidant, antimicrobial and antiproliferative activities. Moreover, we investigated the inhibitory effects of E. floribundus essential oil on nicotinate mononucleotide adenylyltransferase (NadD), a promising new target for developing novel antibiotics, and Trypanosoma brucei, the protozoan parasite responsible for Human African trypanosomiasis. The essential oil composition was dominated by spathulenol (12.2%), caryophyllene oxide (12.4%) and limonene (8.8%). The E. floribundus oil showed a good activity against Staphylococcus aureus (inhibition zone diameter, IZD of 14 mm, minimum inhibitory concentration, MIC of 512 µg/mL). Interestingly, it inhibited the NadD enzyme from S. aureus (IC₅₀ of 98 µg/mL), with no effects on mammalian orthologue enzymes. In addition, T. brucei proliferation was inhibited with IC₅₀ values of 33.5 µg/mL with the essential oil and 5.6 µg/mL with the active component limonene. The essential oil exhibited strong cytotoxicity on HCT 116 colon carcinoma cells with an IC₅₀ value of 14.89 µg/mL, and remarkable ferric reducing antioxidant power (tocopherol-equivalent antioxidant capacity, TEAC = 411.9 μmol·TE/g).

Bioactive Secondary Metabolites from Schizogyne sericea (Asteraceae) Endemic to Canary Islands

Schizogyne sericea (Asteraceae) is a halophytic shrub endemic to the Canary Islands and traditionally employed as analgesic, astringent, anti-inflammatory, and vulnerary. A comprehensive phytochemical investigation was conducted on the flowering aerial parts by analyzing both essential oil constituents and polar compounds. The essential oil was dominated by p-cymene, with the noteworthy occurrence of β-pinene and thymol esters. From the EtOH extract, eight compounds were isolated and structurally elucidated. Essential oil, polar fractions, and isolates (2), (4), and (5) were separately in vitro assayed for antiproliferative activity on human tumor cell lines (A375, MDA-MB 231, and HCT116) by MTT assay, for antioxidant potential by DPPH, ABTS, and FRAP assays, and for antimicrobial activity by the agar disk diffusion method. Results revealed that essential oil and compounds 1 and 2 exert a strong inhibition on tumor cells, and in some cases, higher than that of cisplatin. Fractions containing thymol derivatives (1 and 2) and caffeoylquinic acid derivatives 4 and 5 displayed antioxidant activity comparable to that of Trolox, making S. sericea extract an interesting natural product with potential applications as preservative or in the treatment of diseases in which oxidative stress plays an important role.

Phytochemical Analysis, Biological Activity, and Secretory Structures of Stachys annua (L.) L. subsp. annua (Lamiaceae) from Central Italy

Stachys annua subsp. annua, well-known in central Italy as 'stregona annuale', is an annual, small, slightly-scented herb, commonly found in fields and uncultivated areas in almost all regions of Italy. In folk medicine, its aerial parts were used as anti-catarrhal, febrifuge, tonic, and vulnerary. In the present work, the chemical composition of the flowering aerial parts was studied. The hydrodistilled volatile oil, analysed by GC/MS, showed sesquiterpenoids as the major fraction (42.5%); phytol (9.8%), germacrene D (9.2%), and spathulenol (8.5%) were the most abundant constituents. The volatile oil was assayed for antioxidant and cytotoxic activity by DPPH, ABTS, FRAP, and MTT methods. The cytotoxicity results against HCT116, A375, and MDA-MB 231 human tumor cell lines were significant, with IC50 values of 23.5, 37.2, and 41.5 μg/ml, respectively, whereas the antioxidant power was negligible. The EtOH extract was composed mainly of three glycosidic flavonoids, namely 7-{[2-O-(6-O-acetyl-β-D-allopyranosyl)-β-D-glucopyranosyl]oxy}-5,8-dihydroxy-2-(4-methoxyphenyl)-4H-1-benzopyran-4-one (1), 7-{[6-O-acetyl-2-O-(6-O-acetyl-β-D-allopyranosyl)-β-D-glucopyranosyl]oxy}-2-(3,4-dihydroxyphenyl)-5,8-dihydroxy-4H-1-benzopyran-4-one (2), and 7-{[6-O-acetyl-2-O-(β-D-allopyranosyl)-β-D-glucopyranosyl]oxy}-2-(3-hydroxy-4-methoxyphenyl)-5,8-dihydroxy-4H-1-benzopyran-4-one (3). On the contrary, iridoids, considered chemotaxonomic markers of the genus Stachys, were absent in this species. Finally, the morphological and histochemical survey showed that glandular trichomes were composed of two main types, i.e. peltate type A and capitate types B and C giving positive response for both lipids and polyphenols.

The water soluble ruthenium(II) organometallic compound [Ru(p-cymene)(bis(3,5 dimethylpyrazol-1-yl)methane)Cl]Cl suppresses triple negative breast cancer growth by inhibiting tumor infiltration of regulatory T cells

Ruthenium compounds have become promising alternatives to platinum drugs by displaying specific activities against different cancers and favorable toxicity and clearance properties. Here, we show that the ruthenium(II) complex [Ru(p-cymene)(bis(3,5-dimethylpyrazol-1-yl)methane)Cl]Cl (UNICAM-1) exhibits potent in vivo antitumor effects. When administered as four-dose course, by repeating a single dose (52.4mgkg-1) every three days, UNICAM-1 significantly reduces the growth of A17 triple negative breast cancer cells transplanted into FVB syngeneic mice. Pharmacokinetic studies indicate that UNICAM-1 is rapidly eliminated from kidney, liver and bloodstream thanks to its high hydrosolubility, exerting excellent therapeutic activity with minimal side effects. Immunohistological analysis revealed that the efficacy of UNICAM-1, mainly relies on its capacity to reverse tumor-associated immune suppression by significantly reducing the number of tumor-infiltrating regulatory T cells. Therefore, UNICAM-1 appears very promising for the treatment of TNBC.

Molecular cloning and biochemical characterization of Xaa-Pro dipeptidyl-peptidase from Streptococcus mutans and its inhibition by anti-human DPP IV drugs

Streptococcus mutans harbours an intracellular, human DPP IV-analogous enzyme Xaa-Pro dipeptidyl-peptidase (EC 3.4.14.11). According to previous reports, an extracellular isozyme in S. gordonii and S. suis has been associated with virulence. Speculating that even an intracellular form may aid in virulence of S. mutans, we have tried to purify, characterize and evaluate enzyme inhibition by specific inhibitors. The native enzyme was partially purified by ion-exchange and gel filtration chromatography. Owing to low yield, the enzyme was overexpressed in Lactococcus lactis and purified by affinity chromatography. The recombinant enzyme (rSm-XPDAP) had a specific activity of 1070 U mg(-1), while the Vmax and Km were 7 μM min(-1) and 89 ± 7 μM (n = 3), respectively. The serine protease inhibitor phenylmethylsulphonyl fluoride and a DPP IV-specific inhibitor diprotin A proved to be active against rSm-XPDAP. As a novel approach, the evaluation of the effect of anti-human DPP IV (AHD) drugs on rSm-XPDAP activity found saxagliptin to be effective to some extent (Ki = 129 ± 16 μM), which may lead to the synthesis and development of a new class of antimicrobial agents.