Natural-product-based, carrier-free, noncovalent nanoparticles for tumor chemo-photodynamic combination therapy

Cancer, with its diversity, heterogeneity, and complexity, is a significant contributor to global morbidity, disability, and mortality, highlighting the necessity for transformative treatment approaches. Photodynamic therapy (PDT) has aroused continuous interest as a viable alternative to conventional cancer treatments that encounter drug resistance. Nanotechnology has brought new advances in medicine and has shown great potential in drug delivery and cancer treatment. For precise and efficient therapeutic utilization of such a tumor therapeutic approach with high spatiotemporal selectivity and minimal invasiveness, the carrier-free noncovalent nanoparticles (NPs) based on chemo-photodynamic combination therapy is essential. Utilizing natural products as the foundation for nanodrug development offers unparalleled advantages, including exceptional pharmacological activity, easy functionalization/modification, and well biocompatibility. The natural-product-based, carrier-free, noncovalent NPs revealed excellent synergistic anticancer activity in comparison with free photosensitizers and free bioactive natural products, representing an alternative and favorable combination therapeutic avenue to improve therapeutic efficacy. Herein, a comprehensive summary of current strategies and representative application examples of carrier-free noncovalent NPs in the past decade based on natural products (such as paclitaxel, 10-hydroxycamptothecin, doxorubicin, etoposide, combretastatin A4, epigallocatechin gallate, and curcumin) for tumor chemo-photodynamic combination therapy. We highlight the insightful design and synthesis of the smart carrier-free NPs that aim to enhance PDT efficacy. Meanwhile, we discuss the future challenges and potential opportunities associated with these NPs to provide new enlightenment, spur innovative ideas, and facilitate PDT-mediated clinical transformation.

Targeting CD38/ ADP-ribosyl cyclase as a novel therapeutic strategy for identification of three potent agonists for leukopenia treatment

Leukopenia is the most common side effect of chemotherapy and radiotherapy. It potentially deteriorates into a life-threatening complication in cancer patients. Despite several agents being approved for clinical administration, there are still high incidences of pathogen-related disease due to a lack of functional immune cells. ADP-ribosyl cyclase of CD38 displays a regulatory effect on leukopoiesis and the immune system. To explore whether the ADP-ribosyl cyclase was a potential therapeutic target of leukopenia. We established a drug screening model based on an ADP-ribosyl cyclase-based pharmacophore generation algorithm and discovered three novel ADP-ribosyl cyclase agonists: ziyuglycoside II (ZGSII), brevifolincarboxylic acid (BA), and 3,4-dihydroxy-5-methoxybenzoic acid (DMA). Then, in vitro experiments demonstrated that these three natural compounds significantly promoted myeloid differentiation and antibacterial activity in NB4 cells. In vivo, experiments confirmed that the compounds also stimulated the recovery of leukocytes in irradiation-induced mice and zebrafish. The mechanism was investigated by network pharmacology, and the top 12 biological processes and the top 20 signaling pathways were obtained by intersecting target genes among ZGSII, BA, DMA, and leukopenia. The potential signaling molecules involved were further explored through experiments. Finally, the ADP-ribosyl cyclase agonists (ZGSII, BA, and DMA) has been found to regenerate microbicidal myeloid cells to effectively ameliorate leukopenia-associated infection by activating CD38/ADP-ribosyl cyclase-Ca2+-NFAT. In summary, this study constructs a drug screening model to discover active compounds against leukopenia, reveals the critical roles of ADP-ribosyl cyclase in promoting myeloid differentiation and the immune response, and provides a promising strategy for the treatment of radiation-induced leukopenia.

Transmembrane G protein-coupled receptor 5 signaling stimulates fibroblast growth factor 21 expression concomitant with up-regulation of the transcription factor nuclear receptor Nr4a1

Fibroblast growth factor 21 (FGF21) acts as an endocrine factor, playing important roles in the regulation of energy homeostasis, glucose and lipid metabolism. It is induced by diverse metabolic and cellular stresses, such as starvation and cold challenge, which in turn facilitate adaptation to the stress environment. The pharmacological action of FGF21 has received much attention, because the administration of FGF21 or its analogs has been shown to have an anti-obesity effect in rodent models. In the present study, we found that 3-O-acetyloleanolic acid, an active constituent isolated from the fruits of Forsythia suspensa, stimulated FGF21 production concomitant with the up-regulation of a transcription factor, nuclear receptor Nr4a1, in C2C12 myotubes. Additionally, significant increases in mFgf21 promoter activity were observed in C2C12 cells overexpressing TGR5 receptor in response to 3-O-acetyloleanolic acid treatment. Treatment with the p38 MAPK inhibitor SB203580 was effective at suppressing these stimulatory effects of 3-O-acetyloleanolic acid. Pretreatment with SB203580 also significantly repressed FGF21 mRNA abundance and FGF21 secretion in C2C12 myotubes after 3-O-acetyloleanolic acid stimulation, suggesting that p38 activation is required for the induction of FGF21 by ligand-activated TGR5 in C2C12 myotubes. These findings collectively indicated that TGR5 receptor signaling drives FGF21 expression via p38 activation, at least partly, by mediating Nr4a1 expression. Thus, the novel biological function of 3-O-acetyloleanolic acid as an agent having anti-obesity effects is likely to be mediated through the activation of TGR5 receptors.

Metabolic reprogramming by traditional Chinese medicine and its role in effective cancer therapy

Metabolic reprogramming, characterized by alterations of cellular metabolic patterns, is fundamentally important in supporting the malignant behaviors of cancer cells. It is considered as a promising therapeutic target against cancer. Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) and its bioactive components have been used in cancer therapy for an extended period, and they are well-known for their multi-target pharmacological functions and fewer side effects. However, the detailed and advanced mechanisms underlying the anticancer activities of TCM remain obscure. In this review, we summarized the critical processes of cancer cell metabolic reprogramming, including glycolysis, mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation, glutaminolysis, and fatty acid biosynthesis. Moreover, we systemically reviewed the regulatory effects of TCM and its bioactive ingredients on metabolic enzymes and/or signal pathways that may impede cancer progress. A total of 46 kinds of TCMs was reported to exert antitumor effects and/or act as chemosensitizers via regulating metabolic processes of cancer cells, and multiple targets and signaling pathways were revealed to contribute to the metabolic-modulating functions of TCM. In conclusion, TCM has its advantages in ameliorating cancer cell metabolic reprogramming by its poly-pharmacological actions. This review may shed some new light on the explicit recognition of the mechanisms of anticancer actions of TCM, leading to the development of natural antitumor drugs based on reshaping cancer cell metabolism.

Comprehensive evaluation of the combined extracts of Epimedii Folium and Ligustri Lucidi Fructus for PMOP in ovariectomized rats based on MLP-ANN methods

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Kidney deficiency is the main pathogenesis of osteoporosis based on the theory of "kidney governing bones" in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM). Osteoporosis is a systemic disease; kidney deficiency influences the growth, aging and reproduction of human body, reflecting in endocrine, nerve, immunity, metabolism and other functions. Multi-target drugs composed of natural non-toxic products from kidney-reinforcing herbs, are being investigated for the treatment of osteoporosis. Therefore, it is necessary and imperative to develop an objective and comprehensive method to evaluate and compare the effects of herbs with listed drugs.

AIM OF THE STUDY

This study was designed to evaluate and compare the therapeutic effects and the underlying molecular mechanism of the combined extracts of Epimedii Folium and Ligustri Lucidi Fructus (EL) with Raloxifene hydrochloride (RH) in ovariectomy (OVX)-induced postmenopausal osteoporosis (PMOP) rats based on the multi-layer perception (MLP)-artificial neural network (ANN) model.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Female SD rats were subjected to either sham surgery (n = 8) or bilateral OVX (n = 48). One week after recovering from surgery, the OVX-induced rats were randomly divided into three groups: OVX model group (n = 32, every 8 rats were killed at the end of the 5th, 9th, 11th or 13th week after OVX), EL group (treated with EL 0.35 g/kg, n = 8), and RH group (treated with RH 6.25 mg/kg, n = 8). The rats in the treatment groups were administrated once a day for 12 weeks, then sacrificed. We observed bone mass and quality, bone remodeling, the function of estrogen and TGF-β1/Smads pathway in all rats.

RESULTS

Both EL and RH could increase bone mineral density, enhance bone strength, relieve bone micro-structure degeneration, re-balance bone remodeling, regulate estrogen dysfunction, and up-regulate TGF-β1 expression. The evaluation of the MLP-ANN model showed that EL and RH had markedly anti-PMOP effects, and there was no significant difference in the comprehensive evaluation of anti-osteoporosis between the two drugs. However, RH had better effects on bone mass and quality and TGF-β1/Smads pathway than EL; EL had better effects on estrogen function than RH.

CONCLUSION

Combined extracts of Epimedii Folium and Ligustri Lucidi Fructus (EL) exhibited bone-protective effects on PMOP. The MLP-ANN method evaluated the efficacy of drugs more comprehensively, which provided a new direction for the evaluation and comparison of drugs.

Exploring natural products-based cancer therapeutics derived from egyptian flora

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Egyptian plants are a rich source of natural molecules, representing considerable biodiversity due to climate variations between the Northern, Southern, Eastern and Western regions of the country. Sinai is considered a precious nature reserves preserving flora, fauna, marine organisms, and historical habitats with ancient origins. Here, traditional medicinal approaches have been used for hundreds of years. Healthy lifestyles, low levels of stress and microbial infections, and a dependence on flora and herbal medicine might in combination explain why the burden of cancer is lower in some regions than in others.

AIM OF THE STUDY

The primary aim of this review is to document the plants and natural products that are used as foods and medicines in Egypt, in general, and in Sinai, in particular, with a focus on those with demonstrated anticancer activities. The documented traditional uses of these plants are described, together with their chemical and pharmacological activities and the reported outcomes of clinical trials against cancer.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A literature search was performed to identify texts describing the medicinal plants that are cultivated and grown in Egypt, including information found in textbooks, published articles, the plant list website (http://www.theplantlist.org/), the medicinal plant names services website (http://mpns.kew.org/mpns-portal/), and web databases (PubMed, Science Direct, and Google Scholar).

RESULTS AND DISCUSSION

We collected data for most of the plants cultivated or grown in Egypt that have been previously investigated for anticancer effects and reported their identified bioactive elements. Several plant species, belonging to different families and associated with 67 bioactive compounds, were investigated as potential anticancer agents (in vitro studies). The most potent cytotoxic activities were identified for the families Asteraceae, Lamiaceae, Chenopodiaceae, Apocynaceae, Asclepiadaceae, Euphorbiaceae, Gramineae, and Liliaceae. The anticancer activities of some species, such as Punica granatum L., Nerium oleander L., Olea europea L., Matricaria chamomilla L., Cassia acutifolia L., Nigella sativa L., Capsicum frutescens L., Withania somnifera L., and Zingiber officinale Roscoe, have been examined in clinical trials. Among the various Egyptian plant habitats, we found that most of these plants are grown in the North Sinai, New-Delta, and Giza Governorates.

CONCLUSION

In this review, we highlight the role played by Egyptian flora in current medicinal therapies and the possibility that these plants may be examined in further studies for the development of anticancer drugs. These bioactive plant extracts form the basis for the isolation of phytochemicals with demonstrated anticancer activities. Some active components derived from these plants have been applied to preclinical and clinical settings, including resveratrol, quercetin, isoquercetin, and rutin.

The hydrolysis of saponin-rich extracts from fenugreek and quinoa improves their pancreatic lipase inhibitory activity and hypocholesterolemic effect

Saponins are promising compounds for ameliorating hyperlipidemia but scarce information exists about sapogenins, the hydrolyzed forms of saponins. Saponin-rich extracts and their hydrolysates from fenugreek (FE, HFE) and quinoa (QE, HQE), and saponin and sapogenin standards, were assessed on the inhibition of pancreatic lipase and interference on the bioaccessibility of cholesterol by in vitro digestion models. All extracts inhibited pancreatic lipase (IC₅₀ between 1.15 and 0.59 mg/mL), although the hydrolysis enhanced the bioactivity of HQE (p = 0.014). The IC₅₀ value significantly correlated to the saponin content (r = -0.82; p = 0.001). Only the hydrolyzed extracts showed a reduction of bioaccessible cholesterol (p < 0.001) higher than that of phytosterols (35% reduction). Sapogenin standards exhibited no bioactivities, protodioscin and hederacoside C slightly inhibited the lipase (around 10%) and protodioscin reduced the bioaccessible cholesterol (23% reduction, p = 0.035). The hydrolysis process of saponin-rich extracts enhances the bioactivity and allows developing multibioactive products against pancreatic lipase and cholesterol absorption simultaneously.

miR-421 up-regulation by the oleanolic acid derivative K73-03 regulates epigenetically SPINK1 transcription in pancreatic cancer cells leading to metabolic changes and enhanced apoptosis

SPINK1 overexpression promotes cancer cell aggressiveness and confers chemo-resistance to multiple drugs in pancreatic cancer. Oleanolic acid (OA) derivatives possess active effects against different cancers. Here we report the effect of K73-03, a new novel OA derivative, against pancreatic cancer through mitochondrial dysfunction via miR-421/SPINK1 regulation. We examined the binding ability of miR-421 with SPINK1-3'UTR Luciferase reporter assays. Moreover, miR-421/SPINK1 expressions in pancreatic cancer, with or without K73-03 treatment, were evaluated. Cells viability, migration, autophagy, mitochondrial function and apoptosis were examined with or without K73-03 treatment. We established that the K73-03 effect on the miR-421 that plays a crucial role in the regulation of SPINK1 in pancreatic cancer. Our findings indicated that K73-03 inhibited the mitochondrial function that led to inducing autophagy and apoptosis through epigenetic SPINK1 down-regulation via miR-421 up-regulation in pancreatic cancer. Furthermore, the inhibition of miR-421 expression in pancreatic cancer cells abolished the efficacy of K73-03 against SPINK1 oncogenic properties. We found an interesting finding that the interaction between miR-421 and SPINK1 is related to mitochondrial function through the effect of K73-03. Further, SPINK1 appear to be the molecular targets of K73-03 especially more than gemcitabine.

An interaction study of Ocimum sanctum L. and levetiracetam in pentylenetetrazole kindling model of epilepsy

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Ocimum sanctum L. commonly known as tulsi (synonym of Ocimum tenuiflorum L.) is widely used in Ayurveda medicine and is having multitude neuromodulatory effect including the anticonvulsant effect in acute seizure models as per previous studies. In India, it is used for the treatment of epilepsy as traditional medicine. However, its role in chronic seizure model and interaction with newer antiepileptic drugs has not been investigated, which will enhance its translational value.

AIM OF THE STUDY

Current study investigated the effect of Ocimum on chronic seizure model and its interaction with levetiracetam (LEV), a newer antiepileptic drug.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The adjuvant role of Ocimum sanctum hydroalcoholic extracts (OSHE) 1000 mg/kg along with LEV 300 mg/kg was studied in adult male Wistar rats with mean weight of 227.84 ± 21.68 g using pentylenetetrazole (30 mg/kg, i.p.) kindling (K) (with maximum 24 injections on alternate days and challenge on 7th-day). Along with seizure score, neurobehavioral, brain tissue oxidative stress and histopathology status were assessed. Pharmacokinetic interaction was assessed between LEV and OSHE after 14 days of drug treatment.

RESULTS

K-LEV + OSHE had least seizure score during kindling and on the pentylenetetrazole-challenge test (p=0.031) than other kindling groups. Seizure protection was more in K-LEV + OSHE (85.72%) than others (K-LEV-42.86%, K-OSHE-42.86%, and K-Control-28.58%). Ocimum treated groups had better memory retention potential as evident from Morris water maze (MWM), passive avoidance test but not in an elevated plus maze test. Oxidative-stress was lower in Ocimum treated groups than K-Control group. As per histopathology, K-LEV + OSHE group had the least neuronal degeneration among kindling groups. There was no significant pharmacokinetic interaction between LEV and OSHE, except increased T_max in LEV + OSHE group than LEV alone (p=0.009).

CONCLUSIONS

Ocimum per se and combination with levetiracetam treatment exerted better seizure control, memory retention, oxidative stress reduction, and neuronal structure preservation than kindling control group. There was a very minimal drug interaction between Ocimum and LEV. So, Ocimum as an adjuvant to LEV may be shelpful in enhancing the antiepileptic effect and also in minimizing the adverse effects.

Ethnopharmacology, phytochemistry, and pharmacology of Cornus officinalis Sieb. et Zucc

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Cornus officinalis (Cornaceae), known in Chinese as "Shanzhuyu," is a frequently used traditional Chinese medicine. It tastes sour and is astringent and slightly warm in nature. Its fruits have long been used to treat kidney deficiency, high blood pressure, waist and knee pain, dizziness, tinnitus, impotence, spermatorrhea, menorrhagia, and other diseases in China. The main distribution areas are Shanxi and Gansu.

AIM OF THE STUDY

This review focused on the ethnopharmacological uses of the herb. We also focus on the phytochemical, pharmacological, and toxicological studies on C. officinalis. The recent analytical methods developed for the quality control of the herb's constituents are also reviewed. Additionally, future trends and prospects in the study of this herb are proposed.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Information on C. officinalis was gathered by searching the internet (PubMed, ScienceDirect, Wiley, ACS, CNKI, Scifinder, Web of Science, Google Scholar, and Baidu Scholar) and libraries.

RESULTS

This review compiled the ethnopharmacological uses, including the classic prescriptions and historical applications. Approximately 300 chemical compounds have been isolated and identified from C. officinalis. The major active components of the plant are organic acids and iridoids, among which morroniside and loganin have been extensively investigated. The fruit of the plant has been used in treating many diseases in traditional medicine. Scientific studies indicated the herb's wide range of pharmacological activities, such as hepatic and renal protection, antidiabetes activity, cardioprotection, antioxidation, neuroprotection, antitumor activity, anti-inflammation, analgesic effects, antiaging activity, antiamnesia, antiosteoporosis, and immunoregulation. The analytical methods developed for the quantitative and qualitative determination of various compounds in the herb were further reviewed.

CONCLUSIONS

In this paper, we reviewed various studies conducted on C. officinalis, especially in areas of its ethnopharmacological use, as well as on its phytochemistry, pharmacology, and modern analytical methods used. Some of the herb's ethnomedical indications have been confirmed by the herb's pharmacological effects, such as its hepatic and renal protection and the antidiabetic effects. In particular, the crude extract and its chemical composition have exerted good therapeutic effect in diabetic treatment. C. officinalis entails additional attention on its pharmacological effects and drug development to expand its effective use clinically. Many advanced technologies are used for quality testing, but the detection component is exceedingly scarce for synthetically evaluating the quality of C. officinalis herbs. Thus, further research is necessary to investigate the quality control and toxicology of the plant, to further elucidate its clinical use, and to control herbal quality.

Hemostasis and uterine contraction promoting effect of the extract from drugs in the Zi-Yin-Tiao-Jing granule, a traditional Chinese compound preparation

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Zi-Yin-Tiao-Jing granule (ZG) is a traditional Chinese medicine compound preparation for perimenopausal dysfunctional uterine bleeding. It is made from 9 Chinese crude drugs based on a modified traditional Chinese prescription recorded in Fu Qingzhu Nvke as Guben Zhibeng Tang.

AIM OF THE STUDY

This study aimed to investigate the hemostasis and uterine contraction promoting effect of quality controlled ZG extract on animals as a preclinical study.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

ZG extract was quality controlled by determining the contents of asperosaponin Ⅵ and tetrahydroxystilbene glucoside (TSG) with high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) and the contents of total tannins, total saponins and total flavonoids with ultraviolet spectrophotometry (UV). Bleeding time, clotting time, prothrombin time (PT), activated partial thromboplastin time (APTT) and fibrinogen (FIB) content were assayed to test the hemostasis effect of ZG extract on sixty healthy female Kunming mice. In addition, ten healthy female Sprague-Dawley rats were used to test the effect of ZG extract on uterine contractions in vitro with the BL-420 Biological Function Experiment System.

RESULTS

The ZG extract contained 0.81mgg^-1 asperosaponin Ⅵ, 0.15mgg^-1 TSG, 1.98mgg^-1 total tannins, 1.83mgg^-1 total saponins, and 4.09mgg^-1 total flavonoids. Compared with placebo, the ZG extract shortened the bleeding time at a dosage of 1.2gkg^-1 and 2.4gkg^-1, and shortened the clotting time at 0.6gkg^-1, 1.2gkg^-1 and 2.4gkg^-1 in mice (P < 0.01). It also decurtated the APTT at a dosage of 0.6gkg^-1 (P < 0.05) and raised the content of FIB in the plasma at a dosage of 2.4gkg^-1 (P < 0.05). However, the PT showed no changes after the administration of ZG extract (P > 0.05). In addition, ZG extract at the doses of 1.8mgmL^-1, 3.6mgmL^-1, and 5.4mgmL^-1 increased the amplitude and motoricity of uterine contractions of rats (P < 0.05 or P < 0.01) but maintained the frequency as unchanged.

CONCLUSIONS

The ZG extract was quality controllable by assaying for asperosaponin Ⅵ, TSG, total tannins, total saponins and total flavonoids. It could promote the hemostasis of mice in vivo, as well as the uterine contractions of rats in vitro. Therefore, it may be a promising preparation for clinical treatment of perimenopausal dysfunctional uterine bleeding.

Oleanolic acid modulates the renin-angiotensin system and cardiac natriuretic hormone concomitantly with volume and pressure balance in rats

Oleanolic acid is known to possess beneficial effects on the regulation of the cardiovascular homeostasis. However, the exact nature of the role of oleanolic acid on the regulation of body fluid balance and blood pressure homeostasis and its mechanisms involved are not well defined. Experiments were performed to identify the effects of oleanolic acid on the renin-angiotensin system and cardiac natriuretic hormone (ANP) system, and also renal function and blood pressure in normotensive and renovascular hypertensive rats. The change in the plasma levels of hormones and the expressions of renin, angiotensin II receptors, ANP, natriuretic peptide receptor-C, M₂ muscarinic receptor and GIRK4 were determined in the kidney, heart and aorta. Oleanolic acid was administered orally for 1 or 3 weeks. Here, we found that oleanolic acid suppressed plasma levels of renin activity and aldosterone and intrarenal levels of renin and angiotensin II type 1 receptor expression and increased angiotensin II type 2 receptor in normotensive and hypertensive rats. Also, oleanolic acid increased plasma levels of ANP. Further, oleanolic acid suppressed angiotensin II type 1 receptor and natriuretic peptide receptor-C expression and increased angiotensin II type 2 receptor and ANP expression in the heart and aorta. Along with these changes, oleanolic acid accentuated urinary volume, electrolyte excretion and glomerular filtration rate in normotensive rats and suppressed arterial blood pressure in hypertensive rats. These findings suggest that beneficial effects of oleanolic acid on the cardiorenal system are closely associated with its roles on the renin-angiotensin system and cardiac natriuretic hormone system.

Oldenlandia diffusa suppresses metastatic potential through inhibiting matrix metalloproteinase-9 and intercellular adhesion molecule-1 expression via p38 and ERK1/2 MAPK pathways and induces apoptosis in human breast cancer MCF-7 cells

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY RELEVANCE

Oldenlandia diffusa (OD) has long been known as an apoptotic inducer in breast tumors in ethnomedicine.

AIM OF THE STUDY

To scientifically confirm the anti-breast cancer effects of water, methanol (MeOH) and butanol (BuOH) extracts of O. diffusa on cell apoptosis, matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), intercellular adhesion molecule (ICAM)-1 and intracellular signaling in MCF-7 breast cancer cells.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

MeOH extracts (MOD) and BuOH extracts (BOD) were prepared and examined for their ability to inhibit phorbol myristate acetate (PMA)-induced matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-9 and intercellular adhesion molecule (ICAM)-1 expressions in MCF-7 human breast cancer cells. Additionally, transwell migration, invasion and transcriptional activity were assessed. Results of immunofluorescence confocal microscopy for translocation of NF-κB and p-ERK and p-p38 were also checked. Finally, apoptotic signals including processed caspase-8, caspase-7, poly ADP-ribose polymerase, Bax and Bcl-2 were examined.

RESULTS

MOD and BOD specifically inhibited PMA-induced MMP-9 expression as well as invasive and migration potential via ICAM-1. The inhibitory activity was also based on the suppressed transcriptional activity in MCF-7 breast cancer cells. Results of immunofluorescence confocal microscopy showed that translocation of NF-κB decreased upon BOD and MOD treatments, with a decreased level of p-ERK and p-p38 phosphorylation. In addition, treatment of MCF-7 cells with MOD and BOD activated apoptosis-linked proteins including enzymatically active forms of processed caspase-8, caspase-7 and poly ADP-ribose polymerase, together with increased expression of mitochondrial apoptotic protein, Bax and decreased expression of Bcl-2.

CONCLUSION

The results indicate that OD as an anti-metastatic agent suppresses the metastatic response by targeting p-ERK, p-38 and NF-κB, thus reducing the invasion capacity of MCF-7 breast cancer cells through inhibition of MMP-9 and ICAM-1 expression and plays an important role in the regulation of breast cancer cell apoptosis.

Ethnobotanical investigations on plants used in folk medicine in the regions of Constantine and Mila (North-East of Algeria)

ETHNO-PHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Constantine and Mila regions have been investigated in an ethnobotanical study for the first time. A total of 102 medicinal plants have been cited to treat human ailments. Twenty-eight new species of 31 common plants with 151 new therapeutic applications and 12 new cited species including one endemic specie Zygophyllum cornutum Coss were found as compared to other Algerian regions. In addition, to the best of our knowledge, 369 new medicinal uses of 75 known plants, were reported for the first time in the Mediterranean basin.

AIM OF THE STUDY

This study is aimed at contributing to safeguard world cultural heritage and document ethnomedicinal uses of plants in Algeria and the Mediterranean basin; data on the national and global uses in the world were obtained to extract new potential species for further phytochemical and clinical investigations.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The survey was carried out in two cities in the northeast of Algeria: Constantine and Mila. It was based on semi-structured interviews of 79 local informants. Data were analyzed using quantitative indices, namely, informant consensus factor, fidelity level (FL), use value (UV), and relative frequency citation (RFC), to evaluate the reliability and richness of herbal knowledge in the region.

RESULTS

The interviewed persons used 102 plant species belonging to 90 genera and distributed among 53 families, represented mainly by Lamiaceae, Apiaceae, and Asteraceae (30%, 13%, and 10%, respectively), which were used to treat 14 ailment categories. The category of most frequent ailments (16%) was digestive disorders (diarrhea, constipation, and stomach bloating). The highest RFC was found for Origanum glandulosum Desf. With regard to the fidelity level, a higher FL was found for Tilia cordata Mill. (100%), followed by Artemisia herba alba Asso. with an FL of 95.74% and Punica granatum L. with an FL of 93.09%) to treat gastrointestinal system diseases, and Aloe sp. L. with an FL of 96.67% for skin diseases. The highest UV was found for Origanum glandulosum Desf. (2.280). Moreover, new medicinal uses were recorded for the first time in Algeria and Mediterranean regions.

CONCLUSION

The present study has highlighted the rich herbal knowledge about newfound medicinal plants and their new uses in the Mediterranean region, which could be useful not only in facilitating other studies such as phytochemical and pharmacological investigations and upgrading the sources of biomolecules beneficial to people but also in reopening discussion on pharmacovigilance in herbal medicine as an imperative requirement for local authorities.

Major triterpenoids in Chinese hawthorn "Crataegus pinnatifida" and their effects on cell proliferation and apoptosis induction in MDA-MB-231 cancer cells

The cytotoxicity and antiproliferative effect of phytochemicals presenting in the fruits of Chinese hawthorn (Crataegus pinnatifida) were evaluated. Shanlihong (Crataegus pinnatifida Bge. var. major N.E.Br.) variety possessed significant levels of flavonoids and triterpenoids, and showed potent antiproliferative effect against HepG₂, MCF-7 and MDA-MB- 231 human cancer cells lines. Triterpenoids-enriched fraction (S9) prepared by Semi-preparative HPLC, and its predominant ingredient ursolic acid (UA) demonstrated remarkably antiproliferative activities for all the tested cancer cell lines. DNA flow cytometric analysis showed that S9 fraction and UA significantly induced G1 arrest in MDA-MB-231 cells in a dose-dependent manner. Western blotting analysis revealed that S9 fraction and UA significantly induced PCNA, CDK4, and Cyclin D1 downregulation in MDA-MB-231 cells, followed by p21^Waf1/Cip1 up-regulation. Additionally, flow cytometer and DNA ladder assays indicated that S9 fraction and UA significantly induced MDA-MB-231 cells apoptosis. Mitochondrial death pathway was involved in this apoptosis as significantly induced caspase-9 and caspase-3 activation. These results suggested that triterpenoids-enriched fraction and UA exhibited antiproliferative activity through the cell cycle arrest and apoptosis induction, and was majorly responsible for the potent anticancer activity of Chinese hawthorn.

The effects of Qi Teng Xiao Zhuo granules, traditional Chinese medicine, on the expression of genes in chronic glomerulonephritis rats

BACKGROUND AND AIM

Chronic glomerulonephritis (CGN) is a primary glomerular disease that is related to immune-mediated inflammatory diseases. Qi Teng Xiao Zhuo granules have been proposed as a prescription of traditional Chinese medicine for treatment of CGN, but the comprehensive molecular mechanism underlying this therapeutic effect is not clear to date. The aim of this study was to evaluate and analyze the possible roles and molecular mechanisms of Qi Teng Xiao Zhuo granule-mediated treatment of CGN induced by adriamycin in rats.

METHODS

For gene expression analysis, four samples of glomerular tissue from rats in the Qi Teng Xiao Zhuo granule group and four samples each from the adriamycin treated and control groups were hybridized with Agilent Rat 4×44K whole genome microarrays. KEGG and Gene Ontology (GO) analyses and LIMMA, String and Cytoscape software were used to analyze the functional microarray data and screen differentially expressed genes. Hub genes were identified using Pathway Studio software. Real-time PCR was performed to verify the selected genes.

RESULTS

Microarray gene expression analysis showed that Pnoc, Cacfd1, Fos, Igll1, Lcn2, and Syk were among the most downregulated genes in the Qi Teng Xiao Zhuo granule group compared with the adriamycin treated group, whereas Cyp2c7, Hsd3b6, Acsm5, and Ugt2b15 were significantly upregulated. Functional analysis demonstrated that metabolism of xenobiotics by cytochrome P450, the B cell receptor signaling pathway, and cytokine-cytokine receptor interaction pathways were significantly downregulated in the Qi Teng Xiao Zhuo granule group and that GO terms related to positive regulation of immune response, immune response-activating signal transduction, cell differentiation, cell cycle, proliferation, and adhesion were significantly affected. Fos and Syk were considered to be potential hub genes.

CONCLUSIONS

In the adriamycin-induced CGN rat model, comprehensive molecular mechanisms were involved with complex gene expression alterations containing many altered pathways and GO terms. However, how Qi Teng Xiao Zhuo granules regulate these events warrants further investigation.

Betulinic acid and oleanolic acid, natural pentacyclic triterpenoids, interfere with N-linked glycan modifications to intercellular adhesion molecule-1, but not its intracellular transport to the cell surface

Betulinic acid (3β-hydroxy-20(29)-lupen-28-oic acid), oleanolic acid (3β-hydroxy-olean-12-en-28-oic acid), and ursolic acid (3β-hydroxy-urs-12-en-28-oic acid) are close structural isomers of natural pentacyclic triterpenoid carboxylic acids. We recently identified a unique biological effect of ursolic acid, its inhibition of the intracellular trafficking of glycoproteins. In the present study, we demonstrated that betulinic acid and oleanolic acid did not inhibit the interleukin-1α-induced expression of cell-surface intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1) in human lung carcinoma A549 cells. Nevertheless, betulinic acid and, to a lesser extent, oleanolic acid interfered with N-linked glycan modifications to ICAM-1 in a similar manner to castanospermine (an inhibitor of endoplasmic reticulum α-glucosidases I and II), but not swainsonine (an inhibitor of Golgi α-mannosidase II). Consistent with these results, betulinic acid and oleanolic acid inhibited yeast α-glucosidase activity, but not Jack bean α-mannosidase activity. Thus, to the best of our knowledge, this is the first study to show that betulinic acid and oleanolic acid interfere with N-linked glycan modifications to ICAM-1, but not its intracellular transport to the cell surface.

Ethnobotanical survey of medicinal plants used in the Maseru district of Lesotho

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Ethnobotanical knowledge in Lesotho is passed on orally from one generation to another. As a result it has not been well documented. Existing publications have relied on previous literature and are limited either in terms of scope or coverage. Furthermore, some of them are out of print. Therefore, there are gaps in the documentation of medicinal plants used in Lesotho.

AIM OF THE STUDY

The purpose of the current study is to investigate common ailments in Lesotho's traditional medicine and document plants that are used in treating such ailments.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Interviews were conducted in five urban and four rural areas of the capital town of Maseru, by means of questionnaires to elicit information on medicinal plant use to cure common ailments. The informants were 20 males and seven females comprising 15 traditional healers, 11 herbalists and one pharmacist.

RESULTS

Reproductive ailments were found to be the most commonly treated, followed by respiratory, degenerative and digestive problems. A list of the 80 plants used for treating the common ailments is given. A total of 44 families is represented, with Asteraceae, Fabaceae, Asphodelaceae and Poaceae families having the highest number of species used for medicinal purposes. The most frequently mentioned medicinal plants in interviews include; Elephantorrhiza elephantina, Pentanisia prunelloides, Hypoxis hermerocallidea, Eriocephalus sp., Salvia runcinata, Scabiosa columbaria, Dicoma anomala, Morella serrata, Xysmalobium undulatum, and Leobordea lanceolata. Due to the high demand of medicinal plants, some species such as L. lanceolata, Tephrosia capensis, E. elephantina, D. anomala and P. prunelloides were reported as over-harvested. In some cases animal products are added to the medicinal plants to enhance their curative abilities.

CONCLUSIONS

A total of 80 plants were recorded in the study as treating 38 common ailments in the Maseru district of Lesotho. Records of eight medicinal plants and 146 new medicinal uses of 34 plants that were not recorded elsewhere in literature are reported in the current study for the first time. The new records of medicinal plants used in traditional healing practices in Lesotho clearly show the need to document these practices, and the wealth of new knowledge gained with the current study reinforces the importance of extending the study to other parts of Lesotho.

Banxia xiexin decoction protects against dextran sulfate sodium-induced chronic ulcerative colitis in mice

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Banxia Xiexin decoction (BXD), one of a traditional Chinese medicine chronicled in Shang Han Lun, is commonly used to treat gastroenteritis, ulcerative colitis and diarrhea. In our study, we used current biomedical approaches to investigate the therapeutic efficacy of BXD and possible protective mechanism involved in inhibiting dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-induced chronic ulcerative colitis model.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Chronic DSS colitis was induced in C57BL/6 male mice by three cycles of 5 days of 2% DSS in drinking water, alternating with 5 days of normal water, totaling 30 days. In BXD group, the mice were administered at a dose of 8.7g/kg BXD for 5 days before and during DSS treatment via oral gavage per day. Mice in vehicle group and DSS group were given orally the same volume of drinking water, instead. Body weight, stool characters and hematochezia were observed everyday. The colorectal tissues were used to detect levels of TNF-α, IL-4, IL-10, IL-1β, IL-17, IL-23 and MPO by ELISA or qRT-PCR. The expression of COX-2, 8-Oxoguanine and Nrf2 were examined by IHC, and p-p65 was examined by western blotting. ThOD and the content of MDA were measured according to kits respectively.

RESULTS

BXD significantly protected against DSS-induced chronic ulcerative colitis by amelioration of body weight loss, DAI and histology score. The level of TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-17, IL-23, COX-2 and p-p65 were decreased significantly, while the level of IL-10 improved with the treatment of BXD. MDA, MPO and 8-Oxoguanine were decreased, meanwhile SOD activity and Nrf2 expression were elevated significantly by BXD.

CONCLUSIONS

BXD possesses the potential of anti-inflammation and anti-oxidation to treat colitis. The protective mechanism of BXD may involve in inhibition of NF-κBp65 activation and increasement of Nrf2 expression in colorectums of mice.

Persimmon (Diospyros kaki L.) leaves: a review on traditional uses, phytochemistry and pharmacological properties

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Persimmon (Diospyros kaki L.) leaves, known as Shi Ye (in Chinese), have a long history as a Chinese traditional medicine for the treatment of ischemia stroke, angina, internal hemorrhage, hypertension, atherosclerosis and some infectious diseases, etc. Additionally, persimmon leaves could be used as healthy products, cosmetics and so on, which have become increasingly popular in Asia, such as Japan, Korea and China etc.

AIM OF THE REVIEW

The present paper reviewed the ethnopharmacology, phytochemistry, analytical methods, biological activities and toxicology of persimmon leaves in order to assess the ethnopharmacological use and to explore therapeutic potentials and future opportunities for research.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Information on persimmon leaves were gathered via the Internet (using Google Scholar, Baidu Scholar, Elsevier, ACS, Pudmed, Web of Science, CNKI and EMBASE) and libraries. Additionally, information was also obtained from some local books.

RESULTS

Persimmon leaves have played an important role in Chinese system of medicines. The main compositions of persimmon leaves were flavonoids, terpenoids, etc. Scientific studies on extracts and formulations revealed a wide range of pharmacological activities, such as, antioxidative, hypolipidemic, antidiabetic, antibacterial, hemostasis activities and effects on cardiovascular system. Based on the pharmacological activities, persimmon leaves were widely used in clinic including treatment of cardiovascular disease, hemostasis, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory and beauty treatment.

CONCLUSIONS

Persimmon leaves probably have therapeutic potential in the prevention and treatment for cerebral arteriosclerosis, diabetes, hypertension. It showed significant neuroprotection against ischemia/reperfusion injury in vivo and in vitro. Moreover, it can regulate immune function and inhibite inflammation. Further investigations are needed to explore individual bioactive compounds responsible for these pharmacological effects in vitro and in vivo and the mode of actions. Further safety assessments and clinical trials should be performed before it can be integrated into medicinal practices.

Clerodendrum serratum (L.) Moon. - a review on traditional uses, phytochemistry and pharmacological activities

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Clerodendrum serratum (L.) Moon. (Verbenaceae) is an important medicinal plant growing in the tropical and warm temperate regions like Africa, Southern Asia; Malaysia and distributed throughout in forests of India and Sri Lanka. It is traditionally valued and reported for treating pain, inflammation, rheumatism, respiratory disorders, fever and malarial fever in India with a long history. To provide a comprehensive overview of the traditional and ethno medicinal uses, phytochemistry and biological activities of C. serratum with clinical and toxicity data and possibly make recommendations for further research.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

All relevant worldwide accepted databases were searched for the terms "Clerodendrum", "Clerodendrum serratum", "Bharangi" and "Cheruthekku" along with the other literature from Indian classical texts and pharmacopoeias. There was no specific timeline set for the search. The accessible literatures available on C. serratum were collected via electronic search using Pubmed, Scopus, Science Direct and traditional books reports on ethnopharmacology and traditional medicines.

RESULTS

C. serratum has played an important role in Indian system of medicine. In addition to the common local use in respiratory diseases, other ethnomedicinal uses include treatment of pain, inflammation, rheumatism and fever especially malarial fever. Scientific studies on extracts and formulations revealed anti-asthmatic, mast cell stabilization and anti-allergic effects of roots of C. serratum. Reported data on pharmacological activities also includes hepatoprotective, anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory and anticancer potential of the drug. Saponins (terpenoids and steroids), flavonoids and phenolics isolated from roots have been the focus of phytochemical investigations as the biological activity has been ascribed to the saponins, which are known to possess anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer activity. Isolated bioactives from roots like icosahydropicenic acid and ursolic acid have been claimed to offer anti-allergic and hepatoprotective activity.

CONCLUSIONS

Therapeutic potential of roots and leaves of C. serratum has been demonstrated in the conditions like asthma, allergy, fever, inflammation and liver disorders attributed to the presence of various flavonoids, phenolics and saponins present in the drug. Many ethnobotanical claims have been confirmed through modern in-vitro and in-vivo pharmacological studies of different extracts and isolates from plant; however, additional studies on the biomarkers are needed to establish mechanism of action and to validate the traditional use of this drug in clinical practices after proper safety assessment.