Mulberry leaf and its effects against obesity: A systematic review of phytochemistry, molecular mechanisms and applications

BACKGROUND

Obesity and hyperlipidemia can induce a variety of diseases, and have become major health problems worldwide. How to effectively prevent and control obesity has become one of the hot-spots of contemporary research. Mulberry leaf is the dried leaf of Morus alba L., which is approved by the Ministry of Health as a "homology of medicine and food", rich in diverse active constituents and with a variety of health effects including anti-obesity and anti-hyperlipidemia activities.

PURPOSE

The review attempts to summarize and provide the molecular basis, mechanism, safety and products for further exploration and application of mulberry leaf on the treatment on the control of weight gain and obesity.

METHODS

This review is conducted by using ScienceDirect, PubMed, CNKI and Web of Science databases following Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA).

RESULTS

Based on the research progress of domestic and foreign scholars, the effective phytochemicals, molecular mechanisms and product applications of mulberry leaf in the prevention and treatment of obesity and related metabolic diseases were summarized.

CONCLUSION

Mulberry leaf has excellent medicinal and health care value in obesity treatment. However, its pharmacodynamic substance basis and molecular mechanisms need to be further studied.

Antidiabetic effects of polyherbal mixture made of Centaurium erythraea, Cichorium intybus and Potentilla erecta

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

The polyherbal mixture made of Centaurium erythraea aerial parts and Cichorium intybus roots and Potentilla erecta rhizomes has been used for centuries to treat both the primary and secondary complications of diabetes.

AIM OF THE STUDY

As a continuation of our search for the most effective herbal mixture used as an ethnopharmacological remedy for diabetes, this study aimed to compare the in vitro biological activities of this polyherbal mixture and its individual ingredients, and, most importantly, to validate the ethnopharmacological value of the herbal mixture through evaluation of its phytochemical composition, its potential in vivo toxicity and its effect on diabetes complications.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Phytochemical analysis was performed using HPLC-UV. Antioxidant activity was estimated via the DPPH test. Potential cytotoxicity/anticytotoxicity was assessed using an in vitro RBCs antihemolytic assay and an in vivo sub-chronic oral toxicity method. Antidiabetic activity was evaluated using an in vitro α-amylase inhibition assay and in vivo using a chemically induced diabetic rat model.

RESULTS

The HPLC-UV analysis revealed the presence of p-hydroxybenzoic acid, p-hydroxybenzoic acid derivative, catechin, five catechin derivatives, epicatechin, isoquercetin, hyperoside, rutin, four quercetin derivatives, caffeic acid, and four caffeic acid derivatives in the polyherbal mixture decoction. Treatment with the decoction has shown no toxic effects. The antioxidant and cytoprotective activities of the polyherbal mixture were higher than the reference's ones. Its antidiabetic activity was high in both in vitro and in vivo studies. Fourteen days of treatment with the decoction (15 g/kg) completely normalized blood glucose levels of diabetic animals, while treatments with insulin and glimepiride only slightly lowered glycemic values. In addition, lipid status of treated animals as well as levels of serum AST, ALT, ALP, creatinine, urea and MDA were completely normalized. In addition, the polyherbal mixture completely restored the histopathological changes of the liver, kidneys and all four Cornu ammonis regions of the hippocampus.

CONCLUSIONS

The polyherbal mixture was effective in the prevention of both primary and secondary diabetic complications such as hyperlipidemia, increased lipid peroxidation, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, nephropathy and neurodegeneration.

In vivo anti-obesity efficacy of fucoxanthin/HP-β-CD nanofibers in high-fat diet induced obese mice

Fucoxanthin (Fx) has poor water solubility and bioavailability, which limits its application in the food industry. To improve the physicochemical properties of Fx, hydroxypropyl-β-cyclodextrin (HP-β-CD) encapsulated Fx nanofibers (Fx/HP-β-CD nanofibers) were fabricated via electrospinning without using polymer. Molecular docking analysis showed the Fx/HP-β-CD nanofibers contained Fx and HP-β-CD at 1:2. Morphological analysis revealed the nanofibers were homogeneous without beads, having a diameter around 499 nm. The thermostability of Fx was significantly improved after encapsulationg by HP-β-CD. Animal studies showed that there was a 14% decrease of body weight, 11% white adipose tissue reduction and 9% lower of liver triglyceride for the mice treated with Fx/HP-β-CD nanofibers as compared with that of Fx treated mice. The total cholesterol was reduced by 23% in mice serum after treatment with Fx/HP-β-CD as compared with that of Fx. Interestingly, the Fx/HP-β-CD in this study could attenuate the testicular histopathology in obese mice.

Intestines-erythrocytes-mediated bio-disposition deciphers the hypolipidemic effect of berberine from Rhizoma Coptidis: A neglected insight

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Rhizoma Coptidis (RC), the dried rhizome of Coptis Chinensis Franch., can dispel dampness and heat within the body and has been traditionally used for the treatment of cardiovascular disease (CVD)-associated problems including hyperlipidemia in China. Berberine (BBR) is the main active component of RC, which has been shown to possess significant therapeutic potential. However, only 0.14% of BBR is metabolized in the liver, and the extremely low bioavailability (<1%) and blood concentration of BBR in experimental and clinical settings is insufficient to achieve the effects as observed under in vitro conditions, which imposes challenges to explain its excellent pharmacological actions. Intense efforts are currently being devoted to defining its specific pharmacological molecular targets, while the exploration from the perspective of its pharmacokinetic disposition has rarely been reported to date, which could hardly make a comprehensive understanding of its hypolipidemic enigma.

AIM OF THE STUDY

This study made a pioneering endeavor to unveil the hypolipidemic mechanism of BBR from RC focusing on its unique intestines-erythrocytes-mediated bio-disposition.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The fate of BBR in intestines and erythrocytes was probed by a rapid and sensitive LC/MS-IT-TOF method. To analyze the disposition of BBR, a reliable HPLC method was subsequently developed and validated for simultaneous determination of BBR and its key active metabolite oxyberberine (OBB) in whole blood, tissues, and excreta. Meanwhile, the enterohepatic circulation (BDC) of BBR and OBB was verified by bile duct catheterization rats. Finally, lipid overloading models of L02 and HepG2 cells were employed to probe the lipid-lowering activity of BBR and OBB at in vivo concentration.

RESULTS

The results showed that BBR underwent biotransformation in both intestines and erythrocytes, and converted into the major metabolite oxyberberine (OBB). The AUC_0-t ratio of total BBR to OBB was approximately 2:1 after oral administration. Besides, the AUC_0-t ratio of bound BBR to its unbound counterpart was 4.6:1, and this ratio of OBB was 2.5:1, indicative of abundant binding-type form in the blood. Liver dominated over other organs in tissue distribution. BBR was excreted in bile, while the excretion of OBB in feces was significantly higher than that in bile. Furthermore, the bimodal phenomenon of both BBR and OBB disappeared in BDC rats and the AUC_0-t was significantly lower than that in the sham-operated control rats. Interestingly, OBB significantly decreased triglycerides and cholesterol levels in lipid overloading models of L02 and HepG2 cells at in vivo-like concentration, which was superior to the prodrug BBR.

CONCLUSIONS

Cumulatively, BBR underwent unique extrahepatic metabolism and disposition into OBB by virtue of intestines and erythrocytes. BBR and OBB were mainly presented and transported in the protein-bound form within the circulating erythrocytes, potentially resulting in hepatocyte targeting accompanied by obvious enterohepatic circulation. The unique extrahepatic disposition of BBR via intestines and erythrocytes conceivably contributed enormously to its hypolipidemic effect. OBB was the important material basis for the hypolipidemic effect of BBR and RC.

Fermentation of grapefruit peel by an efficient cellulose-degrading strain, (Penicillium YZ-1): Modification, structure and functional properties of soluble dietary fiber

In the study, a highly efficient cellulose-degrading strain was screened, which was identified as a fungus in the genus Penicillium sp., named YZ-1. The content of soluble dietary fiber was greatly increased by the treatment of this strain. In addition, the effects of soluble dietary fiber from high-pressure cooking group (HG-SDF), strain fermentation group (FG-SDF) and control group (CK-SDF) on the physicochemical structure, and in vitro hypolipidemic activity were investigated. The results showed that the physicochemical structure of the raw materials was improved after fermentation, and FG-SDF exhibited the loosest structure, the highest viscosity and thermal stability. Furthermore, compared to CK-SDF and HG-SDF, FG-SDF showed the most significant improvement in functional properties, including cholesterol adsorption capacity (CAC), inhibition of pancreatic lipase activity (LI) and mixed bile acid adsorption capacity (BBC). Overall, these findings will provide new insights into dietary fiber modification and improve the comprehensive use value of grapefruit by-products.

The antihyperglycemic and hypolipidemic activities of a sulfur-oxidovanadium(IV) complex

This study describes the synthesis, characterization, and biological activity of a new class of antidiabetic oxidovanadium(IV)-complexes with S₂O₂ coordination mode. The target complex 3,6-dithio-1,8-octanediolatooxidovanadium(IV), abbreviated as ([V^IVO(octd)]), where octd = 3,6-dithio-1,8-octanediol, is formed from the reaction between the 3,6-dithio-1,8-octanediol and vanadyl sulfate (V^IVOSO₄). The effects of treatment with ([V^IVO(octd)] on blood glucose, lipidic profile, body weight, food intake, water intake, urinary volume, glycogen levels, and biomarkers for liver toxicity were investigated using a streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetic Wistar rats model. The results have shown that the [V^IVO(octd)] complex caused a significant decrease in blood glucose (247.6 ± 19.3 mg/dL vs 430.1 ± 37.6 mg/dL diabetic group, p < 0.05), triglycerides (TG, 50%) and very low-density cholesterol (VLDL-C, 50%) levels in STZ-diabetic rats after 3 weeks of treatment. The [V^IVO(octd)] has shown antihyperglycemic activity in diabetic rats as well as a reduction in elevated lipid levels. Time-dependent studies using EPR and ⁵¹V NMR spectroscopy of [V^IVO(octd)] were done in aqueous solutions to determine the complex stability and species present in the oral gavage solution used for complex administration. The spectroscopic studies have shown that the antidiabetic/hypolipidemic activity could be attributed to [V^IVO(octd)], vanadium species resulting from redox processes, the hydrolysis of [V^IVO(octd)] and its decomposition products, or some combination of these factors. In summary, the oxidovanadium(IV) complex containing the S₂O₂ donor ligand has desirable antidiabetic properties eliminating the symptoms of Diabetes mellitus and its comorbidities.

Effects of highland barley β-glucan on blood glucose and gut microbiota in streptozotocin-induced, diabetic, C57BL/6 mice on a high-fat diet

OBJECTIVES

This study aimed to investigate the hypoglycemic effect of highland barley β-glucan (HBG) on mice with type 2 diabetes (T2D), and determine whether the hypoglycemic effects are related to modulations of the gut microbiota.

METHODS

T2D was induced with a high-fat diet and streptozotocin in the mice. HBG was orally administered to mice with T2D for 4 wk, and biochemical indices were analyzed in the serum and liver. Fecal samples were collected and analyzed with high-throughput 16S ribosomal RNA sequencing.

RESULTS

Intake of HBG for 4 wk suppressed the body weight, as well as liver and heart indices, and regulated the levels of fasting blood glucose, serum insulin, blood lipid, oxidative damage, and inflammatory reaction in mice with T2D. Furthermore, HBG reversed the gut microbiota dysbiosis in mice with T2D by increasing the abundance of Lachnospiraceae_UCG-006, Streptococcaceae, and Eggerthellaceae, and by decreasing the abundance of Parasutterella.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings indicate that the antidiabetic abilities of HBG might be related to the improvement of gut microbiota imbalance.

Supplementing turmeric rhizome powder in growing Andaman local pigs: a conflated approach for therapy evaluation

This paper examined the pluripotent effect of supplementation of turmeric rhizome powder (TRP) (Curcuma longa) in growing Andaman local pigs. A total of 48 pigs were randomly allotted into four groups and fed diets containing TRP at 4 concentrations, that is, 0 (control group), 0.05 (treatment 1), 0.1 (treatment 2), and 0.2% (treatment 3) for 30 days. The mean body weight of pigs supplemented with 0.1% and 0.2% TRP was significantly higher than that of the control group (41.66 ± 0.44, 42.59 ± 0.33 vs 40.38 ± 0.30 kg; p ≤ 0.05) which indicated the effect of TRP as growth enhancer. A significant (p ≤ 0.05) decrease in serum concentration of aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) was recorded in supplemented groups as compared to the control group. Creatinine kinase (U/l) decreased in all the treatment groups as compared to the control group. Total cholesterol, triglyceride, and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol decreased significantly after supplementation with 0.1% and 0.2% TRP in comparison to the control group. However, there was marked increase in high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (mg/dl) in all TRP-supplemented groups than the control group (27.67 ± 0.60 in T1, 32.76 ± 0.32 in T2, and 34.58 ± 0.37 in T3 vs. 23.73 ± 0.69 in control; p ≤ 0.05). Further, there was increase in antioxidant profile after TRP supplementation. Anti-inflammatory potentiality of TRP could also be appreciated since TRP supplementation downregulated (p ≤ 0.05) expression of IL-6, IL-1β, and IFN-γ. Therefore, we perceive that this conflated approach is an example of its own kind to focus on modification of health status of pigs for more productivity and augmentation of immune response.

Inhibitory effect of Mexican oregano (Lippia graveolens Kunth) extracts on digestive enzymes in vitro, and beneficial impact on carbohydrates and lipids absorption in vivo

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Although Mexican oregano inhibits digestive enzymes in vitro its effect on the absorption of carbohydrates and lipids in vivo has not been addressed.

AIM OF THE STUDY

Assess the effect of Mexican oregano (Lippia graveolens Kunth) on carbohydrates and lipids absorption in vivo. The antioxidant activity also was investigated.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Enzymatic inhibitory action of lipase, α-amylase, and α-glucosidase was evaluated in vitro. Oral lipid (OLTT) and starch tolerance tests (OSTT) were conducted with L. graveolens acetone (O-A) and ethanol (O-E) extracts (at 102 mg/kg body weight equivalent to a 1 g human doses) in male Wistar rats. The antioxidant activity was evaluated through inhibition of lipid peroxidation and scavenging radical.

RESULTS

Both extracts exhibited higher inhibitory median concentration (IC₅₀) of lipase activity (1.9 μg/μL for O-E and 1.8 μg/μL for O-A) than the positive control (Orlistat) (0.07 μg/μL). The IC₅₀ of α-amylase was higher (41.8 μg/μL for O-E and 25.2 μg/μL for O-A) than the Acarbose (2.5 μg/μL); while α-glucosidase results showed not statistically differences between groups (∼1.7 μg/μL). The OLTT results showed that both extracts significantly reduced serum triglycerides (∼147 mg/dL for O-E and ∼155 mg/dL for O-A) as compared with negative control group (only lipid load). In the OSTT, glucose levels showed a significant decrease (∼31 mg/dL for O-E and ∼17 mg/dL for O-A) than the negative control group (only starch load). About in vitro antioxidant evaluation, not statistically differences between extracts and positive control (Trolox) were observed for scavenged free radicals (∼2.0 μg/μL); whereas O-A inhibited lipid peroxidation similar to the Trolox (∼0.8 μg/μL IC₅₀). The main chemical composition of both extracts was coumaric acid, luteolin, rutinoside, naringenin, and carvacrol.

CONCLUSIONS

Both extracts reduce lipid absorption; whereas O-E decreases carbohydrate absorption in vivo. Both extracts inhibit lipid peroxidation and scavenging free radicals in vitro.

Development, characterization and in vitro bile salts binding capacity of selenium nanoparticles stabilized by soybean polypeptides

The paper presents the positive effect of soybean polypeptides (SP) on the stability and the potential hypolipidemic effect of selenium nanoparticles (SeNPs). After preparing SeNPs, SP with different molecular weight were introduced to stabilize SeNPs. We found that the SP with molecular weight >10 kDa (SP5) had the best stabilizing effect on SeNPs. We inferred that the steric resistance resulting from the long chains of SP5 protected SeNPs from collision-mediated aggregation, and the electrostatic repulsions between SP5 and SeNPs also played a positive role in stabilizing SeNPs. The as-prepared SP5-SeNPs were spherical, amorphous and zero valent. It was proved that SeNPs were bound with SP5 through O- and N- groups in SP5, and the main forces were hydrogen bonds and van der Waals forces. The bile salts binding assay showed that the SP5-SeNPs exhibited a high binding capacity to bile salts, which indicated their potential in hypolipidemic application.

Hypolipidemic Effects of Soy Protein and Isoflavones in the Prevention of Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease- A Review

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is the most common chronic liver disease and affects about 25% of the population globally. Obesity and diabetes are the main causes of the disease characterized by excessive accumulation of lipids in the liver. There is currently no direct pharmacological treatments for NAFLD. Dietary intervention and lifestyle modification are the key strategies in the prevention and treatment of the disease. Soy consumption is associated with many health benefits such as decreased incidence of coronary heart disease, type-2 diabetes, atherosclerosis and obesity. The hypolipidemic functions of soy components have been shown in both animal studies and human clinical trials. Dietary soy proteins and associated isoflavones suppressed the formation and accumulation of lipid droplets in the liver and improved NAFLD-associated metabolic syndrome. The molecular mechanism(s) underlying the effects of soy components are mainly through modulation of transcription factors, sterol regulatory element-binding protein-1 and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-γ2, and expressions of their target genes involved in lipogenesis and lipolysis as well as lipid droplet-promoting protein, fat-specific protein-27. Inclusion of appropriate amounts of soy protein and isoflavones in the diets might be a useful approach to decrease the prevalence of NAFLD and mitigate disease burden.

In vivo antihyperglycaemic and antihyperlipidemic activities and chemical constituents of Solanum anomalum

Solanum anomalum is a plant used ethnomedically for the treatment of diabetes. The study was aimed to validate ethnomedical claims in rat model and identify the likely antidiabetic compounds. Leaf extract (70-210 mg/kg/day) and fractions (140 mg/kg/day) of S. anomalum were evaluated in hyperglycaemic rats induced using alloxan for effects on blood glucose, lipids and pancreas histology. Phytochemical characterisation of isolated compounds and their identification were performed using mass spectrometry and NMR spectroscopy. Bioinformatics tool was used to predict the possible protein targets of the identified bioactive compounds. The leaf extract/fractions on administration to diabetic rats caused significant lowering of fasting blood glucose of the diabetic rats during single dose study and on repeated administration of the extract. The hydroethanolic leaf extracts also enhanced glucose utilization capacity of the diabetic rats and caused significant lowering of glycosylated hemoglobin levels and elevation of insulin levels in the serum. Furthermore, triglycerides, LDL-cholesterol, and VLDL-cholesterol levels were lowered significantly, while HDL-cholesterol levels were also elevated in the treated diabetic rats. There was absence or few pathological signs in the treated hyperglycaemic rat pancreas compared to that present in the pancreas of control group. Diosgenin, 25(R)-diosgenin-3-O-α-L-rhamnopyranosyl-(1→4)-β-D-glucopyranoside, uracil, thymine, 1-octacosanol, and octacosane were isolated and identified. Protein phosphatases along with secreted proteins are predicted to be the major targets of diosgenin and the diosgenin glycoside. These results suggest that the leaf extract/fractions of S. anomalum possess antidiabetic and antihyperlipidemic properties, offer protection to the pancreas and stimulate insulin secretion, which can be attributable to the activities of its phytochemical constituents.

Hypolipidemic effect of chromium-modified enzymatic product of sulfated rhamnose polysaccharide from Enteromorpha prolifera in type 2 diabetic mice

Sulfated rhamnose polysaccharide (SRP) derived from Enteromorpha prolifera is a metal-ion chelating agent that could potentially be used to treat diabetes. The aim of our study was to determine the effect of a variant of SRP on DIABETES. First, we synthesized and characterized SRPE-3 chromium(III) [SRPE-3-Cr(III)] complex using an enzymatic method. The maximum chelation rate was 18.2% under optimal chelating conditions of pH 6.0, time 4 h, and temperature 60 °C. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy results showed important sites for Cr(III)-binding were O-H and C=O groups. We then studied the hypolipidemic effects of SRPE-3-Cr(III) on type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) induced by a high-fat, high-sucrose diet (HFSD). Decreased blood glucose content, body fat ratio, serum TG, TC, LDL-C, and increased serum HDL-C were observed after treatment with SRPE-3-Cr(III). In addition, SRPE-3-Cr(III) significantly reduced leptin, resistin, and TNF-α levels, and increased adiponectin contents relative to T2DM. Histopathology results also showed that SRPE-3-Cr(III) could alleviate the HFSD-lesioned tissues. SRPE-3-Cr(III) also improved lipid metabolism via a reduction in aspartate aminotransferase, alanine aminotransferase, fatty acid synthase, and acetyl-CoA carboxylase activities in the liver. SRPE-3-Cr(III) at low doses exhibited better lipid-lowering activities, hence, could be considered to be a novel compound to treat hyperlipidemia and also act as an anti-diabetic agent.

Hypolipidemic effect of soluble dietary fibers prepared from Asparagus officinalis and their effects on the modulation of intestinal microbiota

The soluble dietary fiber from Asparagus officinalis (ASDF) was successively prepared using enzymolysis combined with spray-drying technology. High-performance liquid chromatography analysis showed that ASDF contained two polysaccharide fractions with the average molecular weight of 2.77 × 10⁵ and 6.44 × 10³ Da, and was composed of mannose, rhamnose, galacturonic acid, glucose, galactose, and arabinose with a molecular ratio of 19.93:1.02:1.94:32.17:1.00:1.91, respectively. ASDF showed potential in vitro antioxidant activities. The oral administration of ASDF significantly reduced the levels of total cholesterol, triglyceride, and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol in HD-induced mice serum. Furthermore, 16S rRNA gene sequencing analysis showed that ASDF significantly affected the composition of intestinal microbiota, especially reducing the Firmicutes/Bacteroidotetes ratio and the relative abundances of Desulfobacterota, Proteobacteria, Actinobacteriota and increasing that of Muribaculaceae, Bacteroides, and Alloprevotella. These results demonstrated that the intake of ASDF could regulate intestinal microbiota and serum lipid levels in hyperlipidemic conditions.

Structurally diverse Monascus pigments with hypolipidemic and hepatoprotective activities from highland barley Monascus

Highland barley Monascus has historically been used in solid state fermentation and traditional fermented foods in Tibet. It is possessed of the characteristics of medicine and food. Three new 8,13-unsaturated benzocyclodiketone-conjugated Monascus pigments (1-3), three new benzofuran Monascus pigments (4-6), three new butylated malonyl Monascus pigments (7-9), and eleven known Monascus pigment derivatives (10-20) were isolated from highland barley Monascus for the first time. Their structures were determined by analyzing NMR, MS, UV, and IR spectral data and compared with relevant references. Among them, compounds 2, 4, 6 showed important inhibition of pancreatic lipase activity, and decreased significantly FFA-induced lipid accumulation in HepG2 liver cells. Additionally, compounds 1, 10, 14, 16, 18 exhibited certain hepatoprotective activities against the damage in acetaminophen-induced HepG2 cells. The plausible biogenetic pathway and preliminary structure activity relationship of the selected compounds were scientifically summarized and discussed in this work.

sarcodactylis Swingle and their hypolipidemic and immunosuppressive activities

The fruit of Citrus medica L. var. sarcodactylis Swingle is not only used as a traditional medicinal plant, but also served as a delicious food. Six new (3'→7″)-biflavonoids (1-6), and twelve known biflavonoid derivatives (7-18) were isolated and characterized from the fruits of C. medica L. var. sarcodactylis Swingle for the first time. Their structures were determined by extensive and comprehensive analyzing NMR, HR-ESI-MS, UV, and IR spectral data coupled with the data described in the literature. Compounds (1-18) were evaluated for their hypolipidemic activities with Orlistat as the positive control, and assayed for their immunosuppressive activities with Dexamethasone as the positive control, respectively. Among them, compounds (1-3) exhibited moderate inhibition of pancreatic lipase activity by inhibiting 68.56 ± 1.40%, 56.18 ± 1.57%, 53.51 ± 1.59% of pancreatic lipase activities at the concentration of 100 μM, respectively. Compounds (4-6) and 8 showed potent immunosuppressive activities with the IC₅₀ values from 16.83 ± 1.32 to 50.90 ± 1.79 μM. The plausible biogenetic pathway and preliminary structure activity relationship of the selected compounds were scientifically summarized and discussed in this study.

Hypoglycemic and hypolipidemic effects of blueberry anthocyanins by AMPK activation: In vitro and in vivo studies

Blueberries are rich in bioactive anthocyanins, with a high level of malvidin, which is associated with antioxidant benefits that contribute to reducing the risk of diabetes. The objective of this study was to investigate the hypoglycemic and hypolipidemic effects of blueberry anthocyanin extract (BAE), malvidin (Mv), malvidin-3-glucoside (Mv-3-glc), and malvidin-3-galactoside (Mv-3-gal) in both human hepatocarcinoma cell line HepG2 and in a high-fat diet combining streptozotocin-induced diabetic mice. High glucose treatment significantly increased hepatic oxidative stress up to 6-fold and decreased HepG2 cell viability. Pretreatment with BAE, Mv, Mv-3-glc and Mlv-3-gal significantly mitigated these damages by lowering the reactive oxygen species (ROS) by 87, 80, 76, and 91%, and increasing cell viability by 88, 79, 73, and 98%, respectively. These pretreatments also effectively inhibited hyperglycemia and hyperlipidemia, respectively by reducing the expression levels of enzymes participating in gluconeogenesis and lipogenesis and enhancing those involved in glycogenolysis and lipolysis, via adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase (AMPK) signaling pathway in HepG2 cells. To determinate the role of AMPK in BAE-induced reaction of glucose and lipid metabolism in vivo, doses of 100 mg/kg (blueberry anthocyanin extracts – low concentration, BAE-L) and 400 mg/kg (blueberry anthocyanin extracts – high concentration, BAE-H) were administrated per day to diabetic mice for 5 weeks. BAE treatments had a significant (P < 0.05) effect on body weight and increased the AMPK activity, achieving the decrease of blood- and urine-glucose, as well as triglyceride and total cholesterol. This research suggested that anthocyanins contributed to the blueberry extract-induced hypoglycemia and hypolipidemia effects in diabetes and BAE could be a promising functional food or medicine for diabetes treatment.

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BAE showed hypoglycemic effect on HepG2 and STZ-induced diabetic mice.

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BAE exhibited hypolipidemic effect on HepG2 and STZ-induced diabetic mice.

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BAE inhibited PEPCK and G6Pase expression.

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BAE activated AMPK and decreased the expressions of PGC-1α and FOXO1.

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BAE could be a potential functional food or nutraceutical for diabetes treatment.

Hypoglycemic and hypolipidemic effects of total glycosides of Cistanche tubulosa in diet/streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Cistanche tubulosa (Schrenk) R. Wight (Orobanchaceae) is a frequently prescribed component in many traditional herbal prescriptions which are used to treat diabetes in China. In recent studies, the antidiabetic activity of Cistanche tubulosa extracts have been confirmed. However, no systematic investigation has been reported on the total glycosides of Cistatnche tubulosa (TGCT).

AIM OF THE STUDY

The present study aimed to investigate the hypoglycemic and hypolipidemic effects of TGCT and the potential mechanisms in diet/streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetic rats, and to chemically characterize the main constituents of TGCT.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The major constituents of TGCT were characterized by HPLC/Q-TOF-MS and the analytical quantification was performed with HPLC-DAD. Type 2 diabetic rats were induced by high-fat high-sucrose diet (HFSD) and a single injection of STZ (30 mg/kg). TGCT (50 mg/kg, 100 mg/kg and 200 mg/kg) or metformin (200 mg/kg) were orally administered for 6 weeks. Body weight and calorie intake were monitored throughout the experiment. Fasting plasma glucose (FPG), oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT), area under curve of glucose (AUC-G), glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c), fasting insulin, serum C-peptide, glycogen content and insulin sensitivity index were tested. The levels of phosphorylated protein kinase B and phosphorylated glycogen synthase kinase 3β, the activities of hexokinase and pyruvate kinase were assayed. Meanwhile, the changes in serum lipid profiles, superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase, malondialdehyde and inflammatory factors were measured. Histological of pancreas were also evaluated by haematoxylin-eosin stain.

RESULTS

Our investigation revealed the presence of phenylethanoid glycosides (PhGs): echinacoside (500.19 ± 11.52 mg/g), acteoside (19.13 ± 1.44 mg/g) and isoacteoside (141.82 ± 5.78 mg/g) in TGCT. Pharmacological tests indicated that TGCT significantly reversed STZ-induced weight loss (11.1%, 200 mg/kg); decreased FPG (56.4%, 200 mg/kg) and HbA1c (37.4%, 200 mg/kg); ameliorated the OGTT, AUC-G and insulin sensitivity; increased glycogen content (40.8% in liver and 52.6% in muscle, 200 mg/kg) and the activities of carbohydrate metabolizing enzymes; regulated lipid profile changes and the activities of antioxidant enzymes; diminished serum markers of oxidative stress and inflammation in a dose-dependent manner (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

This study confirmed that TGCT was an effective nutritional agent for ameliorating hyperglycemia and hyperlipidemia in diet/STZ-induced diabetic rats, which might be largely attributed to the activities of TGCT on inhibitions of oxidative stress and inflammation.

Screening of hypolipidemic active components in Jiang-Zhi-Ning and its preliminary mechanism research based on "active contribution value" study

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Jiang-Zhi-Ning (JZN) is a traditional Chinese medicine formula, which has the effect of lowering blood lipid level and softening blood vessels. It is clinically used in the treatment of hyperlipidemia with significant curative effect.

AIM OF THE STUDY

This study aims to screen the active components of JZN that are responsible for its blood lipids lowering effect and lay the foundation for elucidating pharmacodynamic material basis of the hypolipidemic effect of the formula.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The hyperlipidemia model was used to evaluate the efficacy of the JZN effective extraction with the TC and TG of rat plasma as evaluation index. Then the established ultra-high performance liquid chromatography coupled with electrospray ionization-quadrupole-time of flight-mass spectrometry (UPLC-ESI-Q-TOF-MSn) method was utilized to analyze the components of JZN effective extraction and the absorbed components in rat plasma, the potential active components were screened by using the combined analysis results of in vivo and in vitro component identification. Then an established ultra-high performance liquid chromatography-triple quadrupole mass spectrometry (UPLC-QqQ-MSn) method was used to determine the content of potential active components and its natural ratio in JZN effective extraction, and a potential active components combination (PACC) was formed accordingly. Then a HepG2 cell hyperlipidemia model induced by sodium oleate was used to study the hypolipidemic activity of PACC by detecting the content of TG level in the model. Meanwhile, the real-time quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) was used to conduct preliminary research on its hypolipidemic mechanism. Then combined with the concept of "combination index" in the "median-effect principle", to calculate the half inhibitory concentration (IC50) values of PACC and each monomer component on inhibiting the TG level in the cell model. Subsequently, the "activity contribution study" was carried out, and the components with the sum of the "activity contribution value" of 85% were finally selected as the hypolipidemic active components of JZN.

RESULTS

The pharmacodynamics results showed that JZN effective extraction has displayed a good hypolipidemic effect. 45 components were identified in vitro, 108 components were identified from rat plasma, and 17 potential active components were screened out. The content determination result showed that the ratio of each potential active components in PACC as following: cassiaside C: rubrofusarin-6-O-gentiobioside: aurantio-obtusin-6-O-glucoside: hyperoside: isoquercitrin: quercetin-3-O-glucuronide: (E)-2,3,5,4'-tetrahydroxystilbene-2-O-glucoside: rutin: emodin-8-O-glucoside: astragalin: armepavine: N-nornuciferine: coclaurine: O-nornuciferine: nuciferine: N-norarmepavine: higenamine = 3.30: 16.06: 9.15: 23.94: 98.40: 417.45: 189.68: 8.62: 1.28: 5: 3.51: 14.57: 1.06: 1.35: 1: 5.64: 6.06, and the activity study results showed that it has displayed a good hypolipidemic activity. Finally, the hypolipidemic active components screened out by the "activity contribution study" were: quercetin-3-O-glucuronide, (E)-2,3,5,4'-tetrahydroxystilbene-2-O-glucoside, isoquercitrin, O-nornuciferine, hyperoside and rubrofusarin-6-O-gentiobioside.

CONCLUSIONS

A scientific and rational approach of screening the hypolipidemic active ingredients of JZN has been developed in the current study. In addition, the research revealed the blood lipid lowering mechanism of those ingredients, which provide a solid basis for further elucidating the hypolipidemic pharmacodynamic material basis and action mechanism of JZN.

The combination of sesamol and clofibric acid moieties leads to a novel potent hypolipidemic agent with antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and hepatoprotective activity

Oxidative stress and inflammation have been considered the main factors in the liver injury of clofibrate (CF). To obtain a novel antihyperlipidemic agent with antioxidant, anti-inflammation and hepatoprotection, the combination of sesamol and clofibric acid moieties was performed and achieved sesamol-clofibrate (CF-Sesamol). CF-Sesamol showed significant hypolipidemia effects in hyperlipidemia mice induced by Triton WR 1339, reducing TG by 38.8% (P < 0.01) and TC by 35.1% (P < 0.01). CF-Sesamol also displayed an alleviating effect on hepatotoxicity. The hepatic weight and hepatic coefficient were decreased. The amelioration of liver function was observed, such as aspartate and lactate transaminases (AST and ALT), alkaline phosphatase (ALP) and total proteins (TP) levels. Liver histopathological examination showed that hepatocyte necrosis, cytoplasmic loosening, nuclear degeneration and inflammatory cell infiltration reduced obviously by treatment with CF-Sesamol. Related molecular mechanisms on hepatoprotection showed that CF-Sesamol up-regulated Nrf2 and HO-1 expression and down-regulated p-NF-κB p65 expression in hepatic tissues. CF-Sesamol has significant antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. Plasma antioxidant enzymes such as SOD and CAT increased, anti-lipid peroxidation product MDA decreased. The expression of TNF-α and IL-6 inflammatory cytokines in liver was significantly lower than that in the CF group. The results indicated that CF-Sesamol exerted more potent antihyperlipidemic effects and definite hepatoprotective activity partly through the Nrf2/NF-κB-mediated signaling pathway.

leaves in alloxan-induced diabetic rats

The present study was undertaken to evaluate the antidiabetic and hypolipidemic action of leaf extract of Barleria cristata Linn in rats. Diabetes was induced in the rats by a single intraperitoneal (IP) injection of alloxan (150 mg/kg) and randomly divided into 7 groups. Animals were treated with low (250 mg/kg) and high (500 mg/kg) doses of ethyl acetate leaf extract (EALE) and hydro-alcoholic leaf extract (HALE) up to 21 days. The body weight and blood glucose level (BGL) were measured on weekly basis. The rats were killed under mild ether anesthesia on 21st day, blood and the vital organ were collected to estimate biochemical parameters and to study histopathological changes. A single-dose administration of alloxan induced hyperglycemia in all the groups. A regular increase in BGL was observed in toxic control groups when compared with the normal control. Daily oral administration of rats with extracts (HALE and EALE) and standard drug (Glimepiride, 5 mg/kg), reduced elevated BGL significantly (p < 0.001), and body weight was regained in diabetic rats. The extract treatment also improved the normal functioning of the liver and kidneys as evidenced by the restoration of the biochemical profile. The study revealed that B. cristata possesses promising antidiabetic and hypolipidemic activity.

Polyherbal mixture ameliorates hyperglycemia, hyperlipidemia and histopathological changes of pancreas, kidney and liver in a rat model of type 1 diabetes

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

One of the commonly prescribed 'anti-diabetic' polyherbal mixtures by European herbalists is made of Rubus fruticosus and Vaccinium myrtillus leaves, Potentilla erecta roots, Geum urbanum aerial parts and Phaseolus vulgaris pods.

AIM OF THE STUDY

This study aimed to evaluate the phytochemical composition, antioxidant capacity, potential toxicity, hypoglycemic, hypolipidemic, nephroprotective and hepatoprotective activities of this polyherbal mixture decoction.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The phytochemical composition was evaluated using HPLC-UV. The antioxidant activity was assessed using the DPPH test. Potential toxicity was evaluated using the acute and sub-chronic oral toxicity method. Diabetes was induced in Wistar female rats with a single intraperitoneal injection of alloxan monohydrate (150 mg/kg). The animals whose blood glucose was >20 mmol/L for 14 consecutive days were considered diabetic. For the next 14 days, D-10 and D-20 groups were treated with the polyherbal mixture (10 and 20 g of dry plant material/kg, respectively). I and M were control groups treated with insulin glargine (13 IU/kg) and metformin (150 mg/kg), respectively. Healthy control (HC) and diabetic control (DC) groups were treated with water. The blood glucose level was measured on days 14, 21 and 28. Lipid profile analysis was done on day 28. Pancreas, kidney and liver histopathology was evaluated using the H&E and Masson's trichrome staining. The liver tissue was additionally tested for PAS-positive cells.

RESULTS

The HPLC-UV analysis revealed the presence of quinic, gallic and caftaric acid, arbutin, rutin, trifolin, astragalin, hyperoside, isoquercetin and quercitrin. The antioxidant activity of the extract was higher than the reference's one (p < 0.01). Treatment with the polyherbal mixture (10 and 20 g/kg) has shown no toxic effects. No major decline in blood sugar was recorded in I and M groups compared to the DC one (22.86 ± 2.58, 28.5 ± 0.42 and 27.82 ± 0.9 mmol/L, respectively). The polyherbal mixture lowered the blood glucose level to the normal value (8.64 ± 4.09, 5.26 ± 1.3 and 6.76 ± 1.54 mmol/L in D-10, D-20 and HC groups, respectively). Furthermore, it decreased the levels of total cholesterol, triglycerides, VLDL, LDL, atherogenic and cardiovascular risk indices (p < 0.001) compared to the DC group. In addition, the extract restored histopathological changes of the pancreas, kidneys and liver to the healthy animal level.

CONCLUSION

Treatment with the polyherbal mixture extract was more effective than the standard drugs (insulin and metformin) in the amelioration of hyperglycemia, hyperlipidemia, and histopathological changes of the pancreas, kidney and liver tissue.

Hypoglycemic and Hypolipidemic Swords: Synthesis and In-vivo Biological Assessment of 5-benzylidene-2,4-thiazolidinediones

Thiazolidinedione (TZD), being a privileged scaffold, has been known as a significant structural moiety of antidiabetic drugs. TZD has been known to improve glycaemic control in type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) by increasing insulin sensitivity in the body. A novel series of 5-benzylidene 2,4-thiazolidinedione derivatives were designed, synthesized (V1-V28), and structurally confirmed by different spectroscopic techniques such as FTIR, ¹H NMR, ¹³C NMR, and Mass spectrometry. Upon the safety assessment of the synthesized molecules in non-transformed hepatocytes by MTT reduction assay, these were found non-toxic. These derivatives were then further evaluated for their antihyperglycemic and antihyperlipidemic properties in a high-fat diet and low dose of streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats. Altogether, seven biochemical parameters were analyzed, namely blood glucose, triglycerides, cholesterol, creatinine, blood urea nitrogen, HDL-cholesterol, and glycosylated hemoglobin in serum by standard methods. Four synthetic molecules (V2, V4, V5, and V20) possessed significant hypoglycaemic and hypolipidemic activity as compared to the positive control pioglitazone. Moreover, the histopathological studies of the heart and liver revealed no significant toxicity. Two representative compounds V2 and V4, were evaluated for their PPARγ activation potential, demonstrating that they were partial PPARγ agonists, thus confirming our designing hypothesis. Based on the results obtained, we assume that these compounds have the potential to be developed as future antidiabetic agents.

In vitro and in vivo hypolipidemic properties of the aqueous extract of Spirulina platensis, cultivated in colored flasks under artificial illumination

Background

Spirulina is blue-green algae that grows mainly in tropical and subtropical lakes and is commonly used due to its nutritional features including high concentrations of protein, vitamins, mineral salts, carotenoids and antioxidants. This study aimed to investigate the anti-hypercholesterolemic potential of aqueous extract of Spirulina platensis cultivated in different colored flasks under artificial illumination; in vitro and in the diet induced hypercholesterolemic Swiss albino mice.

Methods

Spirulina platensis was cultivated in red, blue, green and colorless Erlenmeyer flasks containing Zarrouk’s medium under aerobic conditions, with incessant illumination by artificial cool white fluorescent with light intensity of 2500 lux (35 µmol photon m⁻² s⁻¹). Chlorophyll a and total carotenoid contents were estimated using colorimetric methods, fatty acids composition was determined by GC-Mass, in vitro and in vivo anti-cholesterol assays were used in assessing the anti-hypercholesterolemia potential of obtained Spirulina cells.

Results

The results showed that the highest cell dry weight, chlorophyl a, and carotenoid of S. platensis were observed in colorless flasks and that the lowest values were recorded with the green colored flasks. Also, the hot water extract of S. platensis obtained from colorless flasks at a concentration of 15 mg/mL after 60 min of incubation exhibited the greatest reduction of cholesterol level. Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry analysis of S. platensis methanolic extract showed 15 bioactive compounds were identified and grouped according to their chemical structures. An experimental model of hypercholesterolemic mice had been examined for impact of S. platensis individually and combined with atorvastatin drug. All S. platensis groups resulted in a remarkable decrease in plasma total cholesterol, triglycerides and low density lipoprotein; and increase in high density lipoprotein.

Conclusion

The present study concluded that the hot aqueous extract of S. platensis developed in colorless flasks is recommended as a natural source for bioactive compounds, with anti-cholesterol and antioxidant potentialities.

The potential role of sesquiterpene lactones isolated from medicinal plants in the treatment of the metabolic syndrome - A review

Metabolic syndrome comprises a cluster of metabolic disorders related to the development of cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes mellitus. In latter years, plant secondary metabolites have become of special interest because of their potential role in preventing and managing metabolic syndrome. Sesquiterpene lactones constitute a large and diverse group of biologically active compounds widely distributed in several medicinal plants used for the treatment of metabolic disorders. The structural diversity and the broad spectrum of biological activities of these compounds drew significant interests in the pharmacological applications. This review describes selected sesquiterpene lactones that have been experimentally validated for their biological activities related to risk factors of metabolic syndrome, together with their mechanisms of action. The potential beneficial effects of sesquiterpene lactones discussed in this review demonstrate that these substances represent remarkable compounds with a diversity of molecular structure and high biological activity, providing new insights into the possible role in metabolic syndrome management.

Optimization of extraction flavonoids from Exocarpium Citri Grandis and evaluation its hypoglycemic and hypolipidemic activities

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Exocarpium Citri Grandis (ECG; Huajuhong in Chinese) is a precious traditional Chinese medicine with a history of hundreds of years in China. It has been demonstrated to possess numerous pharmacological properties, including antitussive, expectorant, anti-inflammatory, hypoglycemic, and hypolipidemic. However, no in-depth report exists on the hypoglycemic and hypolipidemic properties of ECG.

AIM OF THE STUDY

This study aimed to evaluate the hypoglycemic and hypolipidemic properties of ECG flavonoids extract in vitro and in vivo so as to lay the foundation for further researches in this field.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Total flavonoids (TF) and naringin were separately extracted from ECG, and the components of TF were identified by HPLC-MS. The antioxidant capacities of TF and naringin were determined by 2,2,1-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH)-free radical scavenging tests, and digestive enzymes activity inhibition assays in vitro in order to evaluate their hypoglycemic properties. Furthermore, diabetic mice experiments were performed to assess the hypoglycemic and hypolipidemic properties of TF and naringin in vivo.

RESULTS

Five compounds were identified from TF, including naringin, rhoifolin, poncirin, bergaptol, and naringenin. The half maximal inhibitory concentration (IC₅₀) of TF and naringin to DPPH-free radicals were 0.269 and 1.946 mg/mL, respectively. TF and naringin demonstrated a certain inhibitory effect on α-glucosidase and a weaker inhibitory effect on α-amylase. The results of animal experiments showed that TF and naringin had no significant effect on the blood glucose levels, but they could lead to significant (p < 0.05 or p < 0.01) increase in the serum insulin level and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) levels with concomitant reduction in the total cholesterol (TC), total triglycerides (TG), and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) levels in diabetic mice. In addition, TF and naringin could reduce the liver index of diabetic mice (p < 0.01) and reduce the kidney index at low doses (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Our study revealed that the hypoglycemic and hypolipidemic activities of TF is mainly derived from naringin, and other active ingredients in TF also have the effects of alleviating oxidative stress, inhibiting digestive enzyme activity and reducing blood lipids. Our results thus provide a scientific basis for the application of ECG in antidiabetic treatment.

Anti-hyperglycemic and hypolipidemic effects of black ginseng extract containing increased Rh4, Rg5, and Rk1 content in muscle and liver of type 2 diabetic db/db mice

Black ginseng (BG), which is produced by repeated steaming and drying of fresh ginseng, has various pharmacological and therapeutic properties. This study investigated the anti-hyperglycemic and hypolipidemic effects of BG ethanolic extract in type 2 diabetic db/db mice. The levels of fasting blood glucose, HbA1c, insulin levels and thiobarbituric acid reactive substances values were decreased in the groups fed BG extract (BG) (100 and 900 mg/kg BW/day), compared to the control group (CON). In the BG compared with the CON, hepatic steatosis in the liver and the size of adipocytes in muscle tissue were improved. The administration of BG regulated the glucose transporter type (GLUT) 4 and 2, and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor (PPAR) α and γ in muscle and liver. Moreover, ginsenosides (Rh4, Rg5, and Rk1), which profiled by HPLC, regulated the markers for lipid metabolism and glucose metabolism; PPARs and GLUTs in muscle and C2C12 rather than liver cells and tissue. These findings suggested that ginsenosides (Rh4, Rg5, and Rk1) from BG extract can ameliorate type 2 diabetes through their anti-hyperglycemic and hypolipidemic effects.

Influence of fermentation on antioxidant and hypolipidemic properties of maifanite mineral water-cultured common buckwheat sprouts

Buckwheat sprouts (BS) becomes popular due to its' health-promoting properties as food product. The effects of fermentation with Saccharomyces cerevisiae and Lactobacillus plantarum on antioxidant and hypolipidemic activities as well as functional composition in common BS cultivated in maifanite mineral water were investigated here. DPPH and ·OH results showed higher antioxidant potential in fermented BS compared to unfermented BS, due to the higher rutin, orientin, isoorientin, vitexin, isovitexin, and total phenolic and flavonoid contents. The S. cerevisiae-fermented BS also exhibited 113% and 110% higher DPPH and ·OH scavenging activities than the L. plantarum-fermented BS, respectively. In hyperlipidemic mice, blood lipid parameters were improved as dose-dependent manner when supplemented the food with S. cerevisiae-fermented BS. Fermented BS also restored liver antioxidant levels significantly. The fermented BS had greater effect on different parameters than those of unfermented BS. Therefore, fermentation is a valuable method to enhance the bioactive potential of BS.

Hypolipidemic effects of fucoidan fractions from Saccharina sculpera (Laminariales, Phaeophyceae)

Fucoidan is a kind of brown algae-derived macromolecule suggested to have hypolipidemic activity. Saccharina sculpera has attracted interest because it is rich in fucoidan. The monosaccharide composition and structural characteristics of isolated fractions (F1, F2 and F3) were determined using high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy (NMR). The hypolipidemic effects of fucoidan fractions from Saccharina sculpera cultured in northern China were clarified by measuring cholesterol levels, antioxidative indicators and hepatic gene mRNA expression using an established hyperlipidemic Wistar rat model. The results showed that F1 is an acetylated galactofucan and that F2 consists of fucose, galactose, mannose and glucuronic acid. F3 is an acetylated galactofucan with high fucose. Fucoidan fractions from Saccharina sculpera could effectively reduce the level of lipids in serum by reducing the TG, TC, and LDL-C levels and increasing HDL-C levels and could effectively prevent lipid accumulation in the liver. The findings obtained from hepatic gene expression showed that fucoidan could inhibit cholesterol synthesis via downregulation of HMG-CoA-R and upregulation of LCAT, slow the synthesis of fatty acids via downregulation of SREBP-1c, and promote β-oxidation of fatty acids via upregulation of PPARα, PPARγ and LPL. These results demonstrated that the hypolipidemic activity of fucoidan was related to the inhibition of cholesterol synthesis and reverse transport, the regulation of fatty acid synthesis, and acceleration of mitochondrial β-oxidation.

The anti-diabetic and antioxidant effects of a combination of Commiphora mukul, Commiphora myrrha and Terminalia chebula in diabetic rats

OBJECTIVE

Effects of Commiphora mukul and Commiphora myrrha ethanolic extracts and Terminalia chebula hydro-ethanolic extract combination were evaluated in streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetic rats.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Male Wistar rats (n=48) were randomly assigned into: control; diabetic; diabetic+metformin (300 mg/kg); diabetic+dose 1 of herbal combination (438 mg/kg of C. mukul+214 mg/kg of C. myrrha+857 mg/kg of T. chebula); diabetic+dose 2 (642 mg/kg of C. mukul+214 mg/kg of C. myrrha+642 mg/kg of T. chebula); and diabetic+dose 3 (857 mg/kg of C. mukul+438 mg/kg of C. myrrha+1714 mg/kg t of T. chebula). All treatments were given orally by gavage. Diabetes was induced by STZ (60 mg/kg, i.p.). At the end of study (day 28), blood glucose, insulin and lipid profile; as well as hepatic malondialdehyde (MDA) and thiol content, and superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT) activities were determined.

RESULTS

In diabetic rats, plasma glucose, triglycerides (TG), total cholesterol (TC), and LDL-C, as well as hepatic MDA levels were elevated but plasma HDL-C and insulin, and hepatic thiol content and SOD and CAT activities were reduced compared to control (p<0.01-p<0.001). In diabetic+dose 3, plasma TC, TG, and LDL-C and hepatic MDA level decreased (p<0.001), while plasma HDL-C and insulin, and hepatic thiol content, and SOD and CAT activities increased compared to diabetic (p<0.01-p<0.001). Treatment with dose 1 and 2 improved such abnormalities in diabetic rats except for insulin level (p<0.05-p<0.001). The herbal combination effects were comparable to those of metformin. Metformin did not significantly change serum insulin and HDL-C levels, and hepatic SOD activity; however, serum levels of TC, TG, and LDL-C, as well as hepatic MDA levels, thiol content and CAT activity were improved compared to diabetic (p<0.05-p<0.001).

CONCLUSION

These results indicate that this herbal combination acts as an anti-diabetic, antioxidant and hypolipidemic agent and it may be suggested as a beneficial remedy for diabetic patients.

An overview of fungal glycan-based therapeutics

Edible medicinal mushrooms have been traditionally used for health promotion and longevity in China and other East Asian countries for centuries. Structural and pharmacological studies revealed that fungal glycans show multiple physiological and healthy promoting effects including immunomodulation, anti-tumor, anti-aging, anti-oxidation, hypoglycemic, hypolipidemic, anti-radiation, and other effects. Fungal glycans isolated from different kinds of medicinal mushrooms are partially purified and clinically tested. Without serious safety concerns of mostly glycans from edible mushrooms and/or the cultured mycelium, eight of them are approved by Chinese Food and Drug Administration (SFDA) and used clinically in China since 1980s. In this chapter, 185 independent studies involving in biochemical, pharmacological and clinical studies of fungal glycans during the past four decades (1977-2019) from PubMed, CNKI (China National Knowledge Infrastructure) and Wanfang databases are summarized. In future, understanding the fungal glycan-based drugs at molecular biological level would be needed to comprehend the clinical efficacy of glycan-based drugs.

Data on in vivo antioxidant, hypolipidemic and hepatoprotective potential of Thaumatococcus daniellii (Benn.) Benth leaves

This data article reports on the in vivo biochemical activity of ethanolic extract of Thaumatococcus daniellii (Benn.) Benth leaves (ETD) in male Wistar rats at an oral dose of 500–1500 mg/kg daily for 14 days. Control groups were administered distilled water and Vitamin C (10 mg/kg; b.wt). Indices of oxidative stress, dyslipidemia, liver injury and liver pathology were estimated in the plasma and organs after the investigation period. Oral treatment with ETD increased organ superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity, renal reduced glutathione (GSH) and plasma high density lipoprotein (HDL) concentrations while reducing plasma alanine transaminase (ALT) activity, plasma cholesterol (CHOL), bilirubin (DBIL) and organ malondialdehyde (MDA) concentrations (P<0.05). Data was supported by histological report showing no pathologic abnormality. This data indicate ethanolic extract of T. daniellii leaves shows antioxidant, hypolipidemic and hepatoprotective potential.

Antimycobacterial and hypolipemiant activities of Bidens odorata (Cavanilles)

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Bidens odorata Cavanilles is a medicinal and edible plant known as "mozote blanco, aceitilla, acahual, mozoquelite" which is traditionally used in Mexico as a diuretic, hypoglycaemic, anti-inflammatory, antipyretic, antitussive, to treat gastrointestinal disorders, kidney pain, and lung or respiratory diseases.

AIM OF THE STUDY

This research study was aimed at phytochemical analysis of aerial extracts of B. odorata for antimycobacterial and lipid-lowering activities.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Compounds 1 (((2R, 3R, 4S, 5S, 6R)-3,4,5-Tryhidroxy-6-(((E)-3-(4-hydroxyphenyl) acryloyl) oxy) tetrahydro-2H-pyran-2-yl) methyl-4-hydroxybenzoate) and 2 (3,5-Dihydroxybenzoic acid) were isolated from B. odorata aerial shoots and their structural elucidation was carried out using 1 and 2D NMR, infrared spectroscopy (IR) and mass spectrometry (ESI-MS). The antimycobacterial activity of various extracts and compounds 1 and 2 was determined using the Microplate Alamar Blue Assay (MABA). The evaluation of the hypolipidemic effect of the ethanolic extract and the glycosylated compound 1 was tested in a murine model of hypercholesterolemia induced by diet and by Triton WR-1339. On the other hand, the LD₅₀ of the ethanolic extract was evaluated in ICR mice by the OECD protocol TG 423.

RESULTS

Antimycobacterial assay of hexane, CH₂Cl₂, EtOAc, ethanolic and aqueous extracts, as well as the new glycosidic compound 1 and benzoic acid derivative 2 isolated from B. odorata showed minimal inhibitory concentrations (MIC) of 100, 12.5, 12.5, 12.5, ≥200, 3.125 and 50 μg/mL, respectively, against Mycobacterium tuberculosis H37Rv. Only hexane and CH₂Cl₂ extracts were observed to be active against Mycobacterium smegmatis mc²155 at a concentration of 50 and 100 μg/mL, respectively. The ethanolic extract showed lipid-lowering activity at doses of 100 and 1000 mg/kg, while glycosidic compound 1 was active at doses of 50 and 100 mg/kg. In addition, the LD₅₀ of the ethanolic extract was >2000 mg/kg, meaning that this extract does not cause lethality or adverse effects, and no signs of organs alterations or tissue damage were observed.

CONCLUSION

The hexane, CH₂Cl₂, EtOAc, and ethanolic extracts of B. odorata, as well as their components 1 and 2, displayed antimycobacterial activity against M. tuberculosis. Moreover, the ethanolic extract and glycosidic compound 1 showed an important lipid-lowering effect, without lethality or secondary effect. The results of this study support the documented traditional use for B. odorata.

A new multifunctional hydroxytyrosol-clofibrate with hypolipidemic, antioxidant, and hepatoprotective effects

Oxidative stress has been regarded as the leading mechanism of the hepatotoxicity of clofibrate (CF). To achieve multifunctional novel hypolipidemic agents with hypolipidemia, antioxidant, and ameliorating liver injury, clofibric acid derivative hydroxytyrosol-clofibrate (CF-HT) was synthesized by molecular hybridization. CF-HT exhibited significant hypolipidemia, reducing serum triglyceride (TG), total cholesterol (TC), and malonaldehyde (MDA) by 30%, 33%, and 29% in hyperlipidemic mice induced by Triton WR 1339. CF-HT also shown hepatoprotective effect, a significant decrease in hepatic indices toxicity was observed, i.e. aspartate and lactate transaminases (AST and ALT) activities, alkalines phosphatases (ALP), and total bilirubin (TBIL) levels. The liver weight and liver coefficient were also ameliorated. Serum superoxide dismutase (SOD) was significantly elevated, and serum catalase (CAT) and malondialdehyde (MDA) content were remarkably restored. The hepatic glutathione (GSH) content was obviously increased and hepatic oxidized glutathione (GSSG) content was reduced dramatically by CF-HT, as compared to the CF treated mice (p < 0.05). Moreover, the histopathological damage that hepatocyte hyperplasia and hypertrophy was also significantly ameliorated by treatment with CF-HT. Therefore, the results indicated that CF-HT exerted more potent hypolipidemic activity and definite hepatoprotective effect which may mainly be associated with its antioxidative property in mice.

Structural Basis of Bioactivity of Food Peptides in Promoting Metabolic Health

Bioactive peptides have many structural features that enable them to become functional in controlling several biological processes in the body, especially those related to metabolic health. This chapter provides an overview of the multiple targets of food-derived peptides against metabolic health problems (e.g., hypertension, dyslipidemia, hyperglycemia, oxidative stress) and discusses the importance of structural chemistry in determining the bioactivities of peptides and protein hydrolysates.

Nimbolide attenuate the lipid accumulation, oxidative stress and antioxidant in primary hepatocytes

Nimbolide is a bioactive compound found in Azadirachta indica. This work was devised to investigate the potential effects of nimbolide on intracellular lipid deposition and its associated redox modulation in primary hepatocytes (Heps). Lipid accumulation was induced in Heps by supplementing 1 mM oleic acid for 24 h which was marked by significant accumulation of lipids. The results demonstrated that nimbolide can decrease intracellular cholesterol, free fatty acids and triglycerides. Nimbolide may also improve hepatocytes function through its antioxidant effects by inhibiting oxidative DNA damage and lipid peroxidation by curtailing the reactive oxygen species levels. Further it also restore the mitochondrial potential, improving the endogenous antioxidant levels such as GSH and antioxidant enzyme activities. Nimbolide increased (P < 0.05) liver X receptor-α (LXRα), peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-γ (PPARγ) and sterol regulatory element-binding protein-1c (SREBP1c) gene expression in Heps. The biological significance of nimbolide may involve hypolipidemic effect, lipid peroxidation inhibition, DNA damage inhibition, ROS inhibition, restoring mitochondrial function, increases in GSH and SOD & CAT activities, and direct regulation of LXRα, PPARγ and SREBP1c gene expression. Nimbolide may be used as effective lipid lowering compound and lipid deposition-induced Heps changes.

Medicinal properties of mangosteen (Garcinia mangostana L.): A comprehensive update

Garcinia mangostana L. (Clusiaceae) is a tropical tree native to Southeast Asia known as mangosteen which fruits possess a distinctive and pleasant taste that has granted them the epithet of "queen of the fruits". The seeds and pericarps of the fruit have a long history of use in the traditional medicinal practices of the region, and beverages containing mangosteen pulp and pericarps are sold worldwide as nutritional supplements. The main phytochemicals present in the species are isoprenylated xanthones, a class of secondary metabolites with multiple reports of biological effects, such as antioxidant, pro-apoptotic, anti-proliferative, antinociceptive, anti-inflammatory, neuroprotective, hypoglycemic and anti-obesity. The diversity of actions displayed by mangosteen xanthones shows that these compounds target multiple signaling pathways involved in different pathologies, and place them as valuable sources for developing new drugs to treat chronic and degenerative diseases. This review article presents a comprehensive update of the toxicological findings on animal models, and the preclinical anticancer, analgesic, neuroprotective, antidiabetic and hypolipidemic effects of G. mangostana L. extracts and its main isolates. Pharmacokinetics, drug delivery systems and reports on dose-finding human trials are also examined.

assamica and their hypoglycemic and hypolipidemic activities

α-Glucosidase and lipase inhibitors play important roles in the treatment of hyperglycaemia and dyslipidemia. To identify novel naturally occurring inhibitors, a bioactivity-guided phytochemical research was performed on the pu-erh tea. One new flavanol, named (–)-epicatechin-3-O-(Z)-coumarate (1), and 16 known analogs (2—17) were isolated from the aqueous extract of the pu-erh tea. Their structures were determined by spectroscopic and chemical methods. Furthermore, the water extract of pu-erh tea and its fractions exhibited inhibitory activities against α-glucosidases and lipases in vitro; compound 15 showed moderate inhibitory effect against sucrase with an IC₅₀ value of 32.5 μmol/L and significant inhibitory effect against maltase with an IC₅₀ value of 1.3 μmol/L. Compounds 8, 10, 11 and 15 displayed moderate activity against a lipase with IC₅₀ values of 16.0, 13.6, 19.8, and 13.3 μmol/L, respectively.

occidentalis Linn (Caesalpiniaceae) in diet-induced hypercholesterolemic rats

Background

Hyperlipidemia and oxidative stress are major risk factors for atherosclerosis, and all three are among the most important risk factors for cardiovascular diseases. Cassia occidentalis aqueous extract has been used in African traditional medicine for the treatment of hypertension and associated cardiovascular diseases. This study was undertaken to evaluate the hypolipidemic and anti-atherosclerotic properties of the aqueous extract of the leaves of C. occidentalis in rats with hypercholesterolemia (HC).

Sixty Normocholesterolemic (NC) male rats were divided into six groups (n = 10) and fed a high-cholesterol (HC) diet for 30 days (5 groups), or normal rat chow (normal control group). The plant extract was administered to animals at the increasing dose of 240, 320 and 400 mg/kg. After 4 weeks of treatment 5 rats out of 10 were sacrificed, blood samples, aorta, liver, and fresh faecal were collected and processed for biochemical tests. The experiments were conducted under the same conditions with a group of rat treated with Atorvastatin (1 mg/kg), used positive control. The effects of C. occidentalis on weight gain, water and food consumptions, levels of serum lipids and lipoprotein lipid oxidation and stress markers in blood and liver were also examined.

Results

A significant body weight gain was observed in general in all the group of animals without any treatment after 4 weeks. During the treatment period, the C. occidentalis extract induced a significant increase (P < 0.01) in water consumption and food intakes. After 4 weeks of treatment with hypercholesterolemia, the body temperature and organ weights including the liver, kidney, heart and the testis did not present any significant change. The administration of C. occidentalis extract significantly (p < 0.05) prevented the elevation in TC, LDL-C, VLDL-C, hepatic and aortic TG and TC. The atherogenic, triglycerides, and lipid peroxidation (TBARS) index were also decreased in the rats treated with the plant extract. C. occidentalis favoured the performance of faecal cholesterol. It also significantly inhibited the changes and the formation of aortic atherosclerotic plaques.

Conclusion

This study provides evidence of hypolipidemic and antiatherosclerotic effects of C. occidentalis extract. C. occidenntalis aqueous extract reduced bad cholesterols, triglycerides and increasing good cholesterols in rats subjected to a feeding regime enriched with cholesterol. The results support the traditional use of the extract of this plant in the treatment of hypertension and diabetes.

The Hypoglycemic, Hypolipidemic, and Anti-Diabetic Nephritic Activities of Zeaxanthin in Diet-Streptozotocin-Induced Diabetic Sprague Dawley Rats

Zeaxanthin (ZA), an important compound found in Lycium barbarum, shows various pharmacodynamic effects. In our present study, a high-fat, high-sucrose diet and streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetic rat model was used to investigate the antidiabetic activities of ZA. After a 4-week administration of 200 and 400 mg/kg of ZA and 100 mg/kg of metformin hydrochloride, various blood biochemical indexes were detected. ZA strongly normalized the reduced bodyweight and enhanced fasting blood glucose in diabetic rats. The positive data obtained from the oral glucose tolerance test further confirmed its antidiabetic effects. ZA displayed significant hypolipidemic activities indicated by its modulation of serum levels of high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, triglycerides, and total cholesterol. The antidiabetic nephropathy of ZA was confirmed by its regulation of pathological kidney structures, urine levels of n-acetyl-β-d-glucosaminidase and albuminuria, and serum levels of urea nitrogen. ZA inhibited the serum levels of inflammatory factors including interleukin-2 (IL-2), IL-6, tumor necrosis factor-α, and nuclear factor kappa B, further confirming its renal protection. Moreover, the serum imbalances in superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase, methane dicarboxylic aldehyde, and catalase were normalized by ZA, suggesting its antioxidant properties. Altogether, ZA produced hypoglycemic, hypolipidemic, and antidiabetic nephritic effects in a diet-STZ-induced diabetic rat model.

In-vitro and In-vivo Hypolipidemic Activity of Spinach Roots and Flowers

This study was designed in order to correlate the flavonoid and lipoidal matters content of Spinach roots and flowers to their hypolipidemic potential. The total flavonoid content was measured via complexation with aluminum chloride while determination of fatty acids methyl esters and unsaponifiable matters in both organs was performed using GC/MS. In an in-vitro study, the crude ethanol extracts of both organs and their different fractions were separately examined for inhibition of β-hydroxy-β-methyl glutaryl coenzyme A reductase (HMG-CoA reductase); the rate limiting enzyme of cholesterol biosynthesis. The percentage inhibition of alcohol extracts of roots and flowers were 78.19% and 72.68% respectively when compared to the control. The crude alcohol extracts of both organs were further examined in-vivo. Results showed that both extracts improved the investigated parameters by variable degrees compared to fenofibrate reference drug. The root extract showed significant improvement of TC, HDL-C, LDL-C, TG and total lipids (52.75, 209.85, 21.84, 49.26 and 29.62% respectively) when compared to hypercholesterolemic rats. The histopathological picture of liver showed a noticeable amelioration after treatment with root extract. The flavonoid content was higher in flower than root (983.4 and 300.2 mg/kg respectively) while the percentage of sterols and triterpenes in roots was greater than flowers (22.47% and 17.02 % respectively). In conclusion, the root ethanolic extract recorded more potent activity than flower as hypolipidemic agent either in-vitro or in-vivo examination which was more correlated to the sterol content than to the flavonoid content.

Hypolipidemic and hypoglycemic activities of a oleanolic acid derivative from Malva parviflora on streptozotocin-induced diabetic mice

One new oleanolic acid derivative, 2α,3β,23α,29α tetrahydroxyolean-12(13)-en-28-oic acid (1) was isolated from the aerial parts of Malva parviflora. Their structure was characterized by spectroscopic methods. The hypolipidemic and hypoglycemic activities of 1 was analyzed in in streptozotocin (STZ)-nicotinamide-induced type 2 diabetes in mice (MD) and type 1 diabetes in streptozotocin-induced diabetic mice (SD). Triterpene was administered orally at doses of 20 mg/kg for 4 weeks. Organ weight, body weight, glucose, fasting insulin, cholesterol-related lipid profile parameters, glutamate oxaloacetate transaminase (SGOT), glutamate pyruvate transaminase (SGPT), serum alkaline phosphatase (SALP), glucokinase, hexokinase, glucose-6-phosphatase activities and glycogen in liver were measured after 4 weeks of treatment. The results indicated that 1 regulate glucose metabolism, lipid profile, lipid peroxidation, increased body weight, glucokinase and hexokinase activities inhibited triglycerides, total cholesterol, low density lipoproteins level, SGOT, SGPT, SALP, glycogen in liver and glucose-6-phosphatase. In addition, improvement of insulin resistance and protective effect for pancreatic β-cells, also 1 may changes the expression of pro-inflammatory cytokine (IL-6 and TNF-α levels) and enzymes (PAL2, COX-2, and LOX). The results suggest that 1 has hypolipidemic and hypoglycemic, anti-inflammatory, activities, improve insulin resistance and hepatic enzymes in streptozotocin-induced diabetic mice.

Hypolipidemic, antiobesity and cardioprotective effects of sardinelle meat flour and its hydrolysates in high-fat and fructose diet fed Wistar rats

AIMS

The present study aims to evaluate the antiobesity, hypolipidemic and cardioprotective effects of fermented sardinelle (Sardinella aurita) protein hydrolysates (FSPHs) produced with two proteolytic bacteria, Bacillus subtilis A26 (FSPH-A26) and Bacillus amyloliquefaciens An6 (FSPH-An6).

MAIN METHODS

Wistar rats were fed during 10weeks a standard laboratory diet, a high caloric diet (HCD) and a HCD coupled with the oral administration of sardinelle meat flour (SMF) or FSPHs.

KEY FINDINGS

HCD caused hyperlipidemia and increased body weight (BW). The daily oral administration of FSPHs or SMF reduced the total cholesterol (TC), triglycerides (TG) and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-c) serum levels, and increased the level of high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-c). Nevertheless, FSPHs were found to be more efficient than SMF. FSPHs also lowered hepatic TC and TG content and decreased the pancreatic lipase activity. Further, the administration of FSPHs or SMF decreased the BW gain, the food intake and the relative epididymal adipose tissue weight. FSPHs exhibited a potent cardioprotective effect against heart attack, which was demonstrated by returning atherogenic indexes to their normal levels and the conservation of standard histological structure of the heart and aorta.

SIGNIFICANCE

The overall results indicate that FSPHs contained bioactive peptides which significantly attenuated hyperlipidemia, and might reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD) in rats fed HCD.

Isolated flavonoids from Ficus racemosa stem bark possess antidiabetic, hypolipidemic and protective effects in albino Wistar rats

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Ficus racemosa (FR) has been used for thousands of years in Ayurvedic system of medicine in India and is closely associated with prevention, treatment and cure of various human ailments like obesity and diabetes. It is popularly known as gular. A vast and wide range of chemical compounds like polyphenols, friedelane-type triterpenes, norfriedelane type triterpene, eudesmane-type sesquiterpene including various glycosides had been isolated from this plant. However, no detail studies related to isolation of flavonoids has been reported previously with their antidiabetic, hypolipidemic and toxicological consequences.

AIM OF THE STUDY

The present study was undertaken to evaluate antidiabetic, hypolipidemic and toxicological assessments of flavonoids isolated from Ficus racemosa (FR) stem bark.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We isolated four flavonoids from stem bark of FR and structures were confirmed by Infrared spectroscopy (IR), Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) (both 1D and 2D), mass spectroscopy (MS). Later, these flavonoids were administered to streptozotocin (STZ) rats once in a day for a period of seven days at 100mg/kg dose. We measured blood glucose level and body weight changes at different days (1st, 3rd, 5th and 7th days). Serum lipid profiles were also estimated to investigate the hypolipidemic potential of flavonoids in the similar experiment. Various oxidative stress parameters in pancreas and liver and hepatic biomarker enzymes in plasma were also determined to investigate the toxicity potential of isolated flavonoids. Finally, we performed docking studies to find out the mechanism of action.

RESULTS

Our results collectively suggested that four flavonoids reduced blood glucose level and restored body weight, signifying antidiabetic action. There were reduction of other lipid profile parameters and increase of high density lipoprotein (HDL) during administration of flavonoids, also signifying hypolipidemic action. Various oxidative stress biomarkers and hepatic enzymes levels were also normalized with respect to diabetic control at the same time. Docking studies revealed that isolated flavonoids showed their antidiabetic potential via binding to PPARγ and GLUT1 receptors.

CONCLUSION

The isolated four flavonoids demonstrated good antidiabetic, hypolipidemic and antioxidant properties in STZ diabetic rats which supported the use of FR stem bark as useful supplementary drug for future antidiabetic therapy.

Multi-drug intoxication fatality involving atorvastatin: A case report

Mixed antihypertensive drug intoxication poses a significant risk for patient mortality. In tandem to antihypertensives, hypolipidemic medicines (especially statins) are often prescribed. Among their well-known adverse effects belongs rhabdomyolysis. We report a case of fatal multi-drug overdose in a 65-year-old female alcoholic. The patient was unconscious at admission. Empty blister packs indicated the abuse of 250 tablets of urapidil, 42 tablets of verapamil/trandolapril, 50 tablets of moxonidin, 80 tablets of atorvastatin and 80 tablets of diacerein. Standard measures (gastric lavage, activated charcoal, mechanical ventilation, massive doses of vasopressors, volume expansion, diuretics and alkalinization) failed to provide sufficient drug elimination and hemodynamic support and the sufferer deceased on the fourth day. Dramatic elevations of serum myoglobin (34,020 μg/L) and creatine kinase (219 μkat/L) were accompanied by rise in cardiac troponin I and creatinine. Gas chromatography revealed ethanol 1.17 g/kg (blood) and 2.81 g/kg (urine). Thin layer chromatography and gas chromatography of gastric content and urine verified verapamil, moxonidin and urapidil fragment (diacerein method was unavailable). Atorvastatin and trandolapril concentrations (LC-MS(n)) equaled 277.7 μg/L and 57.5 μg/L, resp. (serum) and 8.15 μg/L and 602.3 μg/L, resp. (urine). Histology confirmed precipitates of myoglobin with acute necrosis of proximal renal tubules in association with striated muscle rhabdomyolysis and myocardial dystrophy. Cardiogenic-distributive shock in conjunction with acute renal failure due to the combined self-poisoning with vasoactive agents and atorvastatin were determined to be this decedent's immediate cause of death. The manner of death was assigned to be suicidal.

Synthesis and biological evaluation of isoflavone amide derivatives with antihyperlipidemic and preadipocyte antiproliferative activities

A series of isoflavone amides were designed with isoflavone in place of the scaffold of 2-arylbenzoxazole as cholesterol ester transfer protein (CETP) inhibitors. Twelve new compounds were synthesized, and their inhibitory activities of CETP and preadipocyte proliferation were assayed. The hypolipidemic potency of the most effective compound HY-2c was further tested in vivo by hamster. The results indicate that HY-2c exhibited favorable antihyperlipidemic and preadipocyte antiproliferative activities.

Hypolipidemic, antioxidant and anti-atherosclerogenic effects of aqueous extract of Zanthoxylum heitzii stem bark in diet-induced hypercholesterolemic rats

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate anti-dyslipidemic, antioxidant and anti-atherosclerogenic properties of this extract in diet-induced hypercholesterolemic rat, a model of metabolic syndrome-induced atherosclerosis and associated cardiovascular diseases.

METHODS

Normocholesterolemic (NC) male rats were divided into six groups (n=10) and fed a high-cholesterol (HC) diet for 30 days (5 groups), or normal rat chow (normal control group). Rats given a HC diet also received distilled water (disease control), the potent hypocholesterolemic agent with anti-atherosclerotic activity atorvastatin (2 mg/kg, positive control), or one of the three doses of Zanthoxylum heitzii stem bark aqueous extract tested (225, 300 and 375 mg/kg) concomitantly for four months. Signs of general toxicity, body temperature and weight, and water and food intake were monitored in live animals. After sacrifice, lipid profiles and oxidative stress markers were assessed in the blood and liver, aorta, and feces, and histopathological analysis of aorta was performed.

RESULTS

Plant extract prevented the elevation of aortic total cholesterol and triglycerides, and hepatic low density lipoprotein, very low density lipoprotein, and total cholesterol. Lipid peroxidation (TBARS) was decreased and aortic atherosclerotic plaque formation prevented.

CONCLUSIONS

These observations strongly suggest that stem bark aqueous extract of Zanthoxylum heitzii has anti-atherosclerogenic properties, at least partly mediated by antioxidant and hypolipidemic effects.

Antihyperglycemic, antihyperlipidemic and antioxidant activity of phenolic rich extract of Brassica oleraceae var gongylodes on streptozotocin induced Wistar rats

Cruciferous vegetables, in particular those included into the Brassica genus, are good sources of a variety of nutrients and health-promoting phytochemicals. Phenolic compounds are the major antioxidants of Brassica; hence the contribution of Brassica vegetables to health improvement has largely been associated to their antioxidant capacity. This study aimed to assess anti-diabetic, antilipidemic, and antioxidant activity of phenolic rich extract of Brassica oleraceae var gongylodes (BOvG) in Wistar rats. The findings revealed that the administration of BOvG extract to diabetic rats significantly reduced fasting blood glucose by 64% within 7 days of treatment. Additionally, BOvG extract was also observed to normalize the diabetic rats’ lipid profile and HbA1c (Glycated hemoglobin). BOvG extract also showed protection of liver- kidney functions, which was evidenced by the significant decrease in Blood Urea Nitrogen (BUN), Serum glutamic oxaloacetic transaminase (SGOT) and Serum glutamic pyruvic transaminase (SGPT). The treatment also improved the antioxidant status of the diabetic rats where the enzymatic activities of Catalase (CAT) and Super Oxide Dismutase (SOD) were significantly increased. Furthermore, RP-HPLC analysis detected chlorogenic acid, rutin, and sinapic acid against known standards in BOvG extract. Hence, the present investigation suggests that BOvG phenolic rich extract (as a multi-component therapy) exhibited anti-diabetic, antilipidemic and antioxidant properties in STZ-induced diabetic rats.

Investigation of hypoglycemic, hypolipidemic and antioxidant activities of aqueous extract of Terminalia paniculata bark in diabetic rats

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the hypoglycemic, hypolipidemic and antioxidant activities of aqueous extract of Terminalia paniculata bark (AETPB) in streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetic rats.

METHODS

Acute toxicity was studied in rats after the oral administration of AETPB to determine the dose to assess hypoglycemic activity. In rats, diabetes was induced by injection of STZ (60 mg/kg, i.p.) and diabetes was confirmed 72 h after induction, and then allowed for 14 days to stabilize blood glucose level. In diabetic rats, AETPB was orally given for 28 days and its effect on blood glucose and body weight was determined on a weekly basis. At the end of the experimental day, fasting blood sample was collected to estimate the haemoglobin (Hb), glycosylated haemoglobin (HbA1c), serum creatinine, urea, serum glutamate-pyruvate transaminase (SGPT), serum glutamate-oxaloacetate transaminase (SGOT) and insulin levels. The liver and kidney were collected to determine antioxidants levels in diabetic rats.

RESULTS

Oral administration of AETPB did not exhibit toxicity and death at a dose of 2 000 mg/kg. AETPB treated diabetic rats significantly (P<0.001, P<0.01 and P<0.05) reduced elevated blood glucose, HbA1c, creatinine, urea, SGPT and SGOT levels when compared with diabetic control rats. The body weight, Hb, insulin and total protein levels were significantly (P<0.001, P<0.01 and P<0.05) increased in diabetic rats treated with AETPB compared to diabetic control rats. In diabetic rats, AETPB treatment significantly reversed abnormal status of antioxidants and lipid profile levels towards near normal levels compared to diabetic control rats.

CONCLUSIONS

Present study results confirm that AETPB possesses significant hypoglycemic, hypolipidemic and antioxidant activities in diabetic condition.

Hydroethanolic extract of the inner stem bark of Cedrela odorata has low toxicity and reduces hyperglycemia induced by an overload of sucrose and glucose

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Cedrela odorata L. (Meliaceae) is a native plant of the Amazon region and its inner stem bark is used in the treatment of diabetes in the form of maceration in Brazilian popular medicine. Until now, there is no scientific study on this activity. The present study was aimed at evaluating the anti-hyperglycemic activity, anti-diabetic, toxicity, antioxidant and potential mechanism of action of hydroethanolic extract of the inner stem bark of Cedrela odorata.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

The inner stem bark extract of Cedrela odorata was prepared by maceration in 70% ethanol for 7 days to obtain hydroethanolic extract of Cedrela odorata (HeECo). The preliminary phytochemical analysis was performed according to procedures described in the literature. Selected secondary metabolites detected were quantified by high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). Acute toxicity of HeECo was investigated in male and female mice with oral administration of graded doses of HeECo from 10 to 5000 mg/kg. Subchronic oral toxicity study was done by oral administration of HeECo (500 mg/kg) and vehicle for 30 days to both sexes of Wistar rats. Clinical observations and toxicological related parameters were determined. Blood was collected for biochemical and hematological analyses, while histological examinations were performed on selected organs. Anti-hiperglycemic and antidiabetic effects were evaluated in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats. In acute evaluation, the animals received pretreatment with 250 and 500 mg/kg of HeECo, before carbohydrate overload. For subchronic effect, the antidiabetic activity of HeECo was evaluated using the same doses for 21 days. At the end of the treatments, the levels of triacylglycerols, malondialdehyde, total antioxidant status, superoxide dismutase and glutathione peroxidase activities were evaluated in the plasma.

RESULTS

The extract showed low acute toxicity. HeECo exhibited inhibitory activity against α-glucosidase and caused a lowering in the peak levels of blood glucose in animals that received glucose overload by 36.7% and 24.1% in the area under the glucose curve (AUC). When the overload was sucrose, HeECo reduced the blood glucose level by 44.4% without affecting AUC. Treatment with HeECo of the blood glucose of the diabetic animals for 21 days did not lead to improvement in weight gain and regularization of the blood glucose level, but reduced the triacylglycerol and malondialdehyde levels by 36.6% and 48.1%, respectively. The activity of the antioxidant enzymes, superoxide dismutase and glutathione peroxidase were significantly increased when compared to diabetic control rats. HPLC analysis showed the presence of polyphenols, such as gallic acid, (-)- gallocatechin and (+)- catechin, the latter is present in higher quantity.

CONCLUSIONS

Collectively, these data showed that HeECo could blunt the postprandial glycemic surge in rats; possibly through inhibition of alpha-glucosidase and positive modulation of antioxidant enzymes. Our findings confirmed the anti-hiperglycemic activity of HeECo in STZ- diabetic rats. Cedrela odorata is effective in diminishing glucose levels in vitro and in vivo and in ameliorating oxidative damage that occurs in diabetes and/or due to hyperglycemia in rats. According to our results, the efficacy of Cedrela odorata preparation could be due to the presence of active principles with different mode of actions at the molecular level, including α-glycosidases and glucose transporter inhibitors and antioxidant property.