Isorhamnetin: A review of pharmacological effects

Decoding the Mechanism of Shixiao Powder in Treating Coronary Heart Disease Based on Network Pharmacology and Molecular Docking

Shixiao powder comes from the Formularies of the Bureau of People's Welfare Pharmacies in the Song Dynasty and consists of two herbs, Puhuang (PH) and Wulingzhi (WLZ). PH-WLZ is a commonly used drug pair for the treatment of coronary heart disease (CHD), and its clinical effect is remarkable. However, our understanding of the mechanism of treatment of CHD is still unclear. In this study, the method of network pharmacology was used to explore the mechanism of PH-WLZ in the treatment of CHD. A total of 56 active ingredients were identified from PH-WLZ, of which 93 targets of 41 active ingredients overlapped with those of CHD. By performing Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) enrichment analysis, we obtained the main pathways associated with CHD and those associated with the mechanism of PH-WLZ in the treatment of CHD. By constructing the protein-protein interaction (PPI) network of common targets, 10 hub genes were identified. Based on the number of hub genes contained in the enrichment analysis, we obtained the key pathways of PH-WLZ in the treatment of CHD. The key KEGG pathway in the treatment of CHD by PH-WLZ is mainly enriched in atherosclerosis, inflammation, immunity, oxidative stress, and infection-related pathways. Moreover, the results of molecular docking showed that the active ingredients of PH-WLZ had a good affinity with the hub genes. The results indicate that the mechanism of PH-WLZ in the treatment of CHD may be related to regulation of lipid metabolism, regulation of immune and inflammatory responses, regulation of downstream genes of fluid shear stress, antiaging and oxidative stress, and virus inhibition.

Antiplatelet and Anticoagulant Activity of Isorhamnetin and Its Derivatives Isolated from Sea Buckthorn Berries, Measured in Whole Blood

Blood platelets play a crucial role in hemostasis, the process responsible for keeping blood flowing in the circulatory system. However, unnecessary platelet activation can lead to aggregation at the site of atherosclerotic plaque rapture and the formation of a thrombus, which promotes atherothrombotic diseases. Various dietary components, such as phenolic compounds, are known to demonstrate antiplatelet and anticoagulant properties, and it is possible that these could form an important element in the prophylaxis and therapy of cardiovascular diseases. Our present study examined the biological activity of isorhamnetin (1) and two isorhamnetin derivatives, (2): 3-O-beta-glucoside-7-O-alpha-rhamnoside and (3): 3-O-beta-glucoside-7-O-alpha-(3″′-isovaleryl)-rhamnoside, isolated from the phenolic fraction of sea buckthorn fruit, against human washed blood platelets and human whole blood in vitro. The anti-platelet and anticoagulant potential was determined using (A) flow cytometry, (B) the thrombus-formation analysis system (T-TAS) and (C) colorimetry. The results of the T-TAS test indicate that the AUC10 (Area Under the Curve) of the tested phenolic compounds (compounds 1, 2 and 3; 50 µg/mL) was markedly reduced compared to the control values. Moreover, flavonol demonstrated anti-platelet potential, including anti-adhesive activity, with these effects being more intense in compound 2 than isorhamnetin. Different actions of flavonol on platelet activation may depend on their binding ability to various receptors on blood platelets. However, the mechanism of their anti-platelet potential requires further additional studies, including in vitro and in vivo experiments.

Exploring the Mechanism of Hawthorn Leaves Against Coronary Heart Disease Using Network Pharmacology and Molecular Docking

Hawthorn leaves, which is a traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), has been used for treating coronary heart disease (CHD) for a long time in China. But the limited understanding of the main active components and molecular mechanisms of this traditional medicine has restricted its application and further research. The active compounds of hawthorn leaves were obtained from TCMSP database and SymMap database. The targets of it were predicted based on TCMSP, PubChem, Swiss Target Prediction, and SymMap database. The putative targets of CHD were gathered from multi-sources databases including the Online Mendelian Inheritance in Man (OMIM) database, the DrugBank database, the GeneCards database and the DisGeNet database. Network topology analysis, GO and KEGG pathway enrichment analyses were performed to select the key targets and pathways. Molecular docking was performed to demonstrate the binding capacity of the key compounds to the predicted targets. Furthermore, RAW264.7 cells stimulated by lipopolysaccharides (LPS) were treated with three effective compounds of hawthorn leaves to assess reliability of prediction. Quercetin, isorhamnetin and kaempferol were main active compounds in hawthorn leaves. Forty four candidate therapeutic targets were identified to be involved in protection of hawthorn leaves against CHD. Additionally, the effective compounds of it had good binding affinities to PTGS2, EGFR, and MMP2. Enrichment analyses suggested that immune inflammation related biological processes and pathways were possibly the potential mechanism. Besides, we found that three predicted effective compounds of hawthorn leaves decreased protein expression of PTGS2, MMP2, MMP9, IL6, IL1B, TNFα and inhibited activation of macrophage. In summary, the present study demonstrates that quercetin, kaempferol and isorhamnetin are proved to be the main effective compounds of hawthorn leaves in treatment of CHD, possibly by suppressing expression of PTGS2, MMP2, MMP9, inflammatory cytokines and macrophages viability. This study provides a new understanding of the active components and mechanisms of hawthorn leaves treating CHD from the perspective of network pharmacology.

Unravelling the consecutive glycosylation and methylation of flavonols in peach in response to UV-B irradiation

Flavonol glycosides are bioactive compounds important for plant defence and human nutrition. Glycosylation and methylation play an important role in enriching the diversity of flavonols in response to the environment. Peach flowers and fruit are rich in flavonol diglycosides such as isorhamnetin 3-O-rutinoside (I3Rut), kaempferol 3-O-rutinoside and quercetin 3-O-rutinoside, and flavonol monoglycosides such as I 3-O-glucoside and Q 3-O-galactoside. UV-B irradiation of fruit significantly induced accumulation of all these flavonol glycosides. Candidate biosynthetic genes induced by UV-B were identified by genome homology searches and the in vitro catalytic activities of purified recombinant proteins determined. PpUGT78T3 and PpUGT78A2 were identified as flavonol 3-O-glucosyltransferase and 3-O-galactosyltransferase, respectively. PpUGT91AK6 was identified as flavonol 1,6-rhamnosyl trasferase catalysing the formation of flavonol rutinosides and PpFOMT1 was identified as a flavonol O-methyltransferase that methylated Q at the 3'-OH-OH to form isorhamnetin derivatives. Transient expression in Nicotiana benthamiana confirmed the specificity of PpUGT78T3 as a flavonol 3-O-glucosyltransferase, PpUGT78A2 as a 3-O-galactosyltransferase, PpUGT91AK6 as a 1,6-rhamnosyltrasferase and PpFOMT1 as an O-methyltransferase. This study provides new insights into the mechanisms of glycosylation and methylation of flavonols, especially the formation of flavonol diglycosides such as I3Rut, and will also be useful for future potential metabolic engineering of complex flavonols.

Isolation and characterization of auronlignan derivatives with hepatoprotective and hypolipidemic activities from the fruits of Hippophae rhamnoides L

The fruit of Hippophae rhamnoides L. is not only used as delicious food with nutritional values, but also served as traditional Chinese medicine with multiple bioactivities. In order to find structurally interesting and bioactive isolates from the fruits of H. rhamnoides L., a bioassay-guided investigation was applied to seek the hepatoprotective and hypolipidemic ingredients in this study. As a result, three new (10 → 10'')-biauronlignans (1-3), three new 10-(4''-hydroxy-benzyl)-auronlignans (4-6), three new 10-O-β-D-glucopyranosyl-auronlignans (7-9), and eleven known auronlignan derivatives (10-20) were isolated from the fruits of H. rhamnoides L. for the first time, and their structures were determined by extensive and comprehensive IR, UV, NMR, MS spectral analyses and compared with the reported references. Among them, compounds 1, 4, 7, 11, 15, and 19 showed moderate hepatoprotective activities against the damage in acetaminophen-induced HepG2 cells; compounds 2, 5, 8, and 12 exhibited moderate inhibition of pancreatic lipase activity, and decreased the moderately FFA-induced lipid accumulation in HepG2 liver cells. The plausible biogenetic pathway and preliminary structure-activity relationship of the selected compounds are scientifically summarized and discussed in this study.

Chromatographic Profile and Redox-Modulating Capacity of Methanol Extract from Seeds of Ginkgo biloba L. Originating from Plovdiv Region in Bulgaria

Oxidative stress underlies the pathogenesis of many diseases, which determines the interest in natural substances with antioxidant properties. Ginkgo biloba L. leaves are well known and widely used in the pharmaceutical industry, but the therapeutic properties of the seeds are less studied. This study aimed to identify the chromatographic profile and to evaluate the antioxidant properties of methanol extract from seeds of G. biloba (GBSE). In the GBSE, flavonoids and terpenes were found as terpenes predominated. The GBSE antioxidant capacity determined by 2,2 azino-bis (3-ethyl-benzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) (ABTS) and 1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) methods were equal to 1.34% and 0.58% of the activity of reference substance Trolox, respectively. The results of the ferric reducing antioxidant power method showed that the effect of concentration 1 mg/mL (w/v) GBSE was equal to 7.418 mM FeSO₄ used as a standard. The cupric reducing antioxidant capacity activity of the GBSE was found to be 215.39 µmol Trolox/g GBSE and is presented as Trolox equivalent. The metal chelation effect of 1 mg/mL (w/v) GBSE was equal to that obtained for 0.018 mM EDTA. In conclusion, GBSE showed a good ability to neutralize ABTS and DPPH radicals and could have a beneficial effect in pathological conditions with oxidative stress etiology.

Soluble Free, Esterified and Insoluble-Bound Phenolic Antioxidants from Chickpeas Prevent Cytotoxicity in Human Hepatoma HuH-7 Cells Induced by Peroxyl Radicals

Chickpeas are rich sources of bioactive compounds such as phenolic acids, flavonoids, and isoflavonoids. However, the contribution of insoluble-bound phenolics to their antioxidant properties remains unclear. Four varieties of chickpeas were evaluated for the presence of soluble (free and esterified) and insoluble-bound phenolics as well as their antiradical activity, reducing power and inhibition of peroxyl-induced cytotoxicity in human HuH-7 cells. In general, the insoluble-bound fraction showed a higher total phenolic content. Phenolic acids, flavonoids, and isoflavonoids were identified and quantified by UPLC-MS/MS. Taxifolin was identified for the first time in chickpeas. However, m-hydroxybenzoic acid, taxifolin, and biochanin A were the main phenolics found. Biochanin A was mostly found in the free fraction, while m-hydroxybenzoic acid was present mainly in the insoluble-bound form. The insoluble-bound fraction made a significant contribution to the reducing power and antiradical activity towards peroxyl radical. Furthermore, all extracts decreased the oxidative damage of human HuH-7 cells induced by peroxyl radicals, thus indicating their hepatoprotective potential. This study demonstrates that the antioxidant properties and bioactive potential of insoluble-bound phenolics of chickpeas should not be neglected.

Chemical Structure, Sources and Role of Bioactive Flavonoids in Cancer Prevention: A Review

There has been a major shift in the collective mindset around the world in recent decades, both in terms of food and in terms of the treatment of chronic diseases. Increasing numbers of people are choosing to prevent rather than treat, which is why many consumers are choosing plant-based diets, mainly due to their bioactive compounds. A significant case of bioactive compound is flavonoids-a wide subclass of an even wider class of phytochemicals: polyphenols. Flavonoids are a broad topic of study for researchers due to their potential in the prevention and treatment of a broad range of cancers. The aim of this review is to inform/update the reader on the diversity, accessibility and importance of flavonoids as biomolecules that are essential for optimal health, focusing on the potential of these compounds in the prevention of various types of cancer. Along with conventional sources, this review presents some of the possible methods for obtaining significant amounts of flavonoids based on a slightly different approach, genetic manipulation.

Studies on Anemone nemorosa L. extracts; polyphenols profile, antioxidant activity, and effects on Caco-2 cells by in vitro and in silico studies

In this study, two polar extracts (aqueous and ethanolic) from the aerial part of Anemone nemorosa L. (dried plant) were assessed to reveal their polyphenols profile, antioxidant activity, cytotoxic, and antiproliferative activity on Caco-2 (ATCC-HTB-37) cell line. In silico studies on two key compounds, protoanemonin and anemonin, on four molecular targets – cyclooxygenase-1 and cyclooxygenase-2, and human tankyrase 1 and human tankyrase 2 in relation to human colon cancer cell development have also been achieved. The results are as follows: caffeic acid esters and quercetin glycosides, including (iso)rhamnetin derivates, are the major polyphenol compounds in wood anemone polar extracts; the two polar extracts indicated very strong antioxidant activity in the interval from 0.1 to 5 µg [GAE] per 1 mL sample (IC50 < 0.290 µg GAE/mL), and in vitro studies on Caco-2 cells have revealed their simultaneous stimulatory and protective activity exactly in the concentration area with the strongest antioxidant activity. In silico studies have revealed moderate inhibitory activity of the two key compounds, anemonin and protoanemonin, on the four molecular targets studied; it was concluded having particular benefits of the wood anemone polar extracts in managing postoperative intestinal recovery, and generally in regenerative medicine.

Therapeutic Potential of Isorhamnetin following Acetaminophen-Induced Hepatotoxicity through Targeting NLRP3/NF-κB/Nrf2

Acetaminophen (APAP)-induced acute liver injury (ALI) is the principal cause of acute liver failure (ALF) in some countries including the United States and with few available treatments. Isorhamnetin is a bioflavonoid that is found in medicinal plants like Hippophae rhamnoides L. and Ginkgo biloba L. with promising potential to regulate inflammatory responses. In this study, we evaluated the possible effect of isorhamnetin in prevention of APAP-induced ALI and analyzed further the involvement of oxidative stress and inflammation-associated factors. Male C57BL/6 mice were given isorhamnetin (25 or 100 mg/kg b.w., p.o.) three times at 48, 24, and 1 h before APAP administration (300 mg/kg b.w., i.p.). Functional indicators of liver injury were measured as well as analysis of oxidative stress- and inflammation-associated indices and liver histopathology was also conducted. Isorhamnetin at the higher dose of 100 mg/kg significantly lowered serum levels of ALT, ALP, and AST in addition to reduction of ROS, TBARS, IL-6, TNFα, NF-kB, NLRP3, caspase 1, and MPO and significantly prevented reduction of GSH, SOD activity, sirtuin 1, and Nrf2. Additionally, isorhamnetin alleviated pathological changes of the liver tissue and suitably reversed NF-kB and Nrf2 immunoreactivity. These findings show protective effect of isorhamnetin against acetaminophen-induced liver injury through reducing oxidative stress, inflammation, and pyroptosis which is attributed to its regulation of NF-kB, Nrf2, NLRP3, and sirtuin 1.

Isoquercetin as an Anti-Covid-19 Medication: A Potential to Realize

Isoquercetin and quercetin are secondary metabolites found in a variety of plants, including edible ones. Isoquercetin is a monoglycosylated derivative of quercetin. When ingested, isoquercetin accumulates more than quercetin in the intestinal mucosa where it is converted to quercetin; the latter is absorbed into enterocytes, transported to the liver, released in circulation, and distributed to tissues, mostly as metabolic conjugates. Physiologically, isoquercetin and quercetin exhibit antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, immuno-modulatory, and anticoagulant activities. Generally isoquercetin is less active than quercetin in vitro and ex vivo, whereas it is equally or more active in vivo, suggesting that it is primarily a more absorbable precursor to quercetin, providing more favorable pharmacokinetics to the latter. Isoquercetin, like quercetin, has shown broad-spectrum antiviral activities, significantly reducing cell infection by influenza, Zika, Ebola, dengue viruses among others. This ability, together with their other physiological properties and their safety profile, has led to the proposition that administration of these flavonols could prevent infection by severe acute respiratory syndrome-coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2), or arrest the progression to severity and lethality of resulting coronavirus disease of 2019 (Covid-19). In silico screening of small molecules for binding affinity to proteins involved SARS-CoV-2 life cycle has repeatedly situated quercetin and isoquercetin near to top of the list of likely effectors. If experiments in cells and animals confirm these predictions, this will provide additional justifications for the conduct of clinical trials to evaluate the prophylactic and therapeutic efficacy of these flavonols in Covid-19.

Ginkgo biloba in the Aging Process: A Narrative Review

Neurodegenerative diseases, cardiovascular disease (CVD), hypertension, insulin resistance, cancer, and other degenerative processes commonly appear with aging. Ginkgo biloba (GB) is associated with several health benefits, including memory and cognitive improvement, in Alzheimer's disease (AD), Parkinson's disease (PD), and cancer. Its antiapoptotic, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory actions have effects on cognition and other conditions associated with aging-related processes, such as insulin resistance, hypertension, and cardiovascular conditions. The aim of this study was to perform a narrative review of the effects of GB in some age-related conditions, such as neurodegenerative diseases, CVD, and cancer. PubMed, Cochrane, and Embase databases were searched, and the PRISMA guidelines were applied. Fourteen clinical trials were selected; the studies showed that GB can improve memory, cognition, memory scores, psychopathology, and the quality of life of patients. Moreover, it can improve cerebral blood flow supply, executive function, attention/concentration, non-verbal memory, and mood, and decrease stress, fasting serum glucose, glycated hemoglobin, insulin levels, body mass index, waist circumference, biomarkers of oxidative stress, the stability and progression of atherosclerotic plaques, and inflammation. Therefore, it is possible to conclude that the use of GB can provide benefits in the prevention and treatment of aging-related conditions.

Natural Bioactives: Back to the Future in the Fight against Human Papillomavirus? A Narrative Review

Human papillomavirus (HPV) still represents an important threat to health worldwide. Better therapy in terms of further improvement of outcomes and attenuation of related side-effects is desirable. The pharmaceutical industry has always targeted natural substances-phytochemicals in particular-to identify lead compounds to be clinically validated and industrially produced as antiviral and anticancer drugs. In the field of HPV, numerous naturally occurring bioactives and dietary phytochemicals have been investigated as potentially valuable in vitro and in vivo. Interference with several pathways and improvement of the efficacy of chemotherapeutic agents have been demonstrated. Notably, some clinical trials have been conducted. Despite being endowed with general safety, these natural substances are in urgent need of further assessment to foresee their clinical exploitation. This review summarizes the basic research efforts conducted so far in the study of anti-HPV properties of bio-actives with insights into their mechanisms of action and highlights the variety of their natural origin in order to provide comprehensive mapping throughout the different sources. The clinical studies available are reported, as well, to highlight the need of uniformity and consistency of studies in the future to select those natural compounds that may be suited to clinical application.

In Silico and In Vitro Identification of Pan-Coronaviral Main Protease Inhibitors from a Large Natural Product Library

The main protease (Mpro or 3CLpro) in coronaviruses represents a promising specific drug target as it is essential for the cleavage of the virus polypeptide and has a unique cleavage site that does not exist in human host proteases. In this study, we explored potential natural pan-coronavirus drugs using in vitro and in silico approaches and three coronavirus main proteases as treatment targets. The PyRx program was used to screen 39,442 natural-product-like compounds from the ZINC database and 121 preselected phytochemicals from medicinal plants with known antiviral activity. After assessment with Lipinski's rule of five, molecular docking was performed for the top 33 compounds of both libraries. Enzymatic assays were applied for the top candidates from both in silico approaches to test their ability to inhibit SARS-CoV-2 Mpro. The four compounds (hypericin, rosmarinic acid, isorhamnetin, and luteolin) that most efficiently inhibited SARS-CoV-2 Mpro in vitro were further tested for their efficacy in inhibiting Mpro of SARS-CoV-1 and MERS-CoV. Microscale thermophoresis was performed to determine dissociation constant (Kd) values to validate the binding of these active compounds to recombinant Mpro proteins of SARS-CoV-2, SARS-CoV-1, and MERS-CoV. The cytotoxicity of hypericin, rosmarinic acid, isorhamnetin, and luteolin was assessed in human diploid MRC-5 lung fibroblasts using the resazurin cell viability assay to determine their therapeutic indices. Sequence alignment of Mpro of SARS-CoV-2 demonstrated 96.08%, 50.83%, 49.17%, 48.51%, 44.04%, and 41.06% similarity to Mpro of other human-pathogenic coronaviruses (SARS-CoV-1, MERS-CoV, HCoV-NL63, HCoV-OC43, HCoV-HKU1, and HCoV-229E, respectively). Molecular docking showed that 12 out of 121 compounds were bound to SARS-CoV-2 Mpro at the same binding site as the control inhibitor, GC376. Enzyme inhibition assays revealed that hypericin, rosmarinic acid, isorhamnetin, and luteolin inhibited Mpro of SARS-CoV-2, while hypericin and isorhamnetin inhibited Mpro of SARS-CoV-1; hypericin showed inhibitory effects toward Mpro of MERS-CoV. Microscale thermophoresis confirmed the binding of these compounds to Mpro with high affinity. Resazurin assays showed that rosmarinic acid and luteolin were not cytotoxic toward MRC-5 cells, whereas hypericin and isorhamnetin were slightly cytotoxic. We demonstrated that hypericin represents a potential novel pan-anti-coronaviral agent by binding to and inhibiting Mpro of several human-pathogenic coronaviruses. Moreover, isorhamnetin showed inhibitory effects toward SARS-CoV-2 and SARS-CoV-1 Mpro, indicating that this compound may have some pan-coronaviral potential. Luteolin had inhibitory effects against SARS-CoV-2 Mpro.

ZnO Nanocomposites of Juniperus procera and Dodonaea viscosa Extracts as Antiproliferative and Antimicrobial Agents

Cancer and microbial infections constitute a major burden and leading cause of death globally. The development of therapeutic compounds from natural products is considered a cornerstone in drug discovery. Therefore, in the present study, the ethanolic extract and the fractions of Dodonaea viscosa and Juniperus procera were evaluated for anticancer and antimicrobial activities. It was found that two fractions, JM and DC, exhibited promising anticancer and antimicrobial activities. The JM and DC fractions were further modified into ZnO nanocomposites, which were characterized by SEM, XRD, TGA, and EDX. It was noted that the synthesized nanocomposites displayed remarkable enhancement in cytotoxicity as well as antibacterial activity. Nanocomposite DC–ZnO NRs exhibited cytotoxicity with IC₅₀ values of 16.4 ± 4 (HepG2) and 29.07 ± 2.7 μg/mL (HCT-116) and JM–ZnO NRs with IC₅₀ values of 12.2 ± 10.27 (HepG2) and 24.1 ± 3.0 μg/mL (HCT-116). In addition, nanocomposites of DC (i.e., DC–ZnO NRs) and JM (i.e., JM–ZnO NRs) displayed excellent antimicrobial activity against Staphylococcus aureus with MICs of 2.5 and 1.25 μg/mL, respectively. Moreover, these fractions and nanocomposites were tested for cytotoxicity against normal fibroblasts and were found to be non-toxic. GC-MS analysis of the active fractions were also carried out to discover the possible phytochemicals that are responsible for these activities.

Prickly Pear Cacti (Opuntia spp.) Cladodes as a Functional Ingredient for Hyperglycemia Management: A Brief Narrative Review

The worldwide prevalence of obesity is increasing along with its comorbidities, including type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). From a pathophysiological perspective, T2DM arises as a consequence of insulin resistance and pancreatic β-cell dysfunction, which together induce chronic hyperglycemia. The pharmacological treatment of T2DM specifically focuses on its management, rather than remission, with a lack of pharmacological agents to prevent the onset of the disease. Considering the role of unhealthy dietary patterns on the development of T2DM, identifying novel food ingredients and bioactive substances may provide new avenues by which to address the T2DM epidemic. In this brief review, we have summarized the latest findings on the consumption of the prickly pear (PP; Opuntia spp.) cladode as a potential nutritional tool for the management of hyperglycemia. The consumption of prickly pear cladodes was reported to exert hypoglycemic effects, making it a potential cost-effective nutritional intervention for the management of T2DM. Several studies have demonstrated that the consumption of prickly pear cladodes and the related products reduced post-prandial glucose levels. The cladodes’ high fiber content may be implicated in improving glycemic control, by affecting glucose absorption and effectively slowing its release into the blood circulation. Given these potential hypoglycemic effects, prickly pear cladodes may represent a potential functional food ingredient to improve glycemic control and counter the negative metabolic effects of the modern Western diet. Nonetheless, in consideration of the lack of evidence on the chronic effects of the prickly pear cladode, future research aimed at evaluating its long-term effects on glycemic control is warranted.

Anti-Liver Fibrosis Activity and the Potential Mode of Action of Ruangan Granules: Integrated Network Pharmacology and Metabolomics

Ruangan granules (RGGs) have been used to treat liver fibrosis with good clinical efficacy for many years. However, the potential mechanism of action of RGGs against liver fibrosis is still unclear. In this study, we evaluated the quality and safety of this preparation and aimed to explore the anti-liver fibrosis activity and potential mode of action of RGGs using network pharmacology and metabolomics. The results showed that RGGs contained abundant ferulic acid, salvianolic acid B and paeoniflorin, and at the given contents and doses, RGGs were safe and presented anti-liver fibrosis activity. They presented anti-liver fibrosis activity by improving liver function (ALT and AST, p < 0.01) and pathology and decreasing fibrosis markers in the serum of rats caused by CCl₄, including HA, LN, PC III, HYP, CoII-V, and α-SMA, and the oxidant stress and inflammatory response were also alleviated in a dose-dependent manner, especially for high-dose RGGs (p < 0.01). Further studies showed that RGGs inhibited the activation of the PI3K-Akt signaling pathway in rats induced by CCl₄, regulated pyrimidine metabolism, improved oxidative stress and the inflammatory response by regulating mitochondrial morphology, and alleviated liver fibrosis. Luteolin, quercetin, morin and kaempferol were active compounds and presented the cytotoxicity toward to LX-02 cells. This study provides an overall view of the mechanism underlying the action of RGGs protecting against liver fibrosis.

Biotechnological Applications and Health-Promoting Properties of Flavonols: An Updated View

Flavonols are a subclass of natural flavonoids characterized by a remarkable number of biotechnological applications and health-promoting properties. They attract researchers' attention due to many epidemiological studies supporting their usage. They are phytochemicals commonly present in our diet, being ubiquitous in the plant kingdom and, in particular, relatively very abundant in fruits and vegetables. All these aspects make flavonols candidates of choice for the valorization of products, based on the presence of a remarkable number of different chemical structures, each one characterized by specific chemical features capable of influencing biological targets inside the living organisms in very different manners. In this review, we analyzed the biochemical and physiological characteristics of flavonols focalizing our attention on the most promising compounds to shed some light on their increasing utilization in biotechnological applications in processing industries, as well as their suitable employment to improve the overall wellness of the humankind.

Effects of Isorhamnetin on Diabetes and Its Associated Complications: A Review of In Vitro and In Vivo Studies and a Post Hoc Transcriptome Analysis of Involved Molecular Pathways

Diabetes mellitus, especially type 2 (T2DM), is a major public health problem globally. DM is characterized by high levels of glycemia and insulinemia due to impaired insulin secretion and insulin sensitivity of the cells, known as insulin resistance. T2DM causes multiple and severe complications such as nephropathy, neuropathy, and retinopathy causing cell oxidative damages in different internal tissues, particularly the pancreas, heart, adipose tissue, liver, and kidneys. Plant extracts and their bioactive phytochemicals are gaining interest as new therapeutic and preventive alternatives for T2DM and its associated complications. In this regard, isorhamnetin, a plant flavonoid, has long been studied for its potential anti-diabetic effects. This review describes its impact on reducing diabetes-related disorders by decreasing glucose levels, ameliorating the oxidative status, alleviating inflammation, and modulating lipid metabolism and adipocyte differentiation by regulating involved signaling pathways reported in the in vitro and in vivo studies. Additionally, we include a post hoc whole-genome transcriptome analysis of biological activities of isorhamnetin using a stem cell-based tool.

Metabolomics Analysis Reveals the Differences Between Bupleurum chinense DC. and Bupleurum scorzonerifolium Willd

Bupleurum chinense DC. and Bupleurum scorzonerifolium Willd. are two varieties of Bupleuri Radix in Chinese Pharmacopoeia 2020. The clinical efficacy of the two bupleurum species is different. The difference in clinical efficacy is closely related to the composition of plant metabolites. In order to analyze the difference in metabolites, we used liquid chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry (LC-MS) for untargeted metabolome and gas chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry (GC-MS) for widely targeted metabolome to detect the roots (R), stems (S), leaves (L), and flowers (F) of two varieties, and detected 1,818 metabolites in 25 classes. We performed a statistical analysis of metabolites. Differential metabolites were screened by fold-change and variable importance in the projection values of the OPLS-DA model, and significant differences were found among different groups. The content of active components (triterpenoid saponins) was found to be high in the BcR group than in the BsR group. Other pharmacological metabolites were significantly different. By Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes annotation and enrichment analysis, we found that differential metabolites of the aboveground parts mainly concentrated in monoterpenoid biosynthesis, while the differential metabolites of the root mainly concentrated in sesquiterpenoid and triterpenoid biosynthesis. Differences in metabolic networks may indirectly affect the metabolic profile of Bc and Bs, leading to differences in clinical efficacy. Our study provides a scientific basis for subsequent biosynthesis pathway and related bioactivity research, and provides a reference for developing non-medicinal parts and guiding the clinical application of Bupleuri Radix.

Small berries as health-promoting ingredients: a review on anti-aging effects and mechanisms in Caenorhabditis elegans

Aging is an inevitable, irreversible, and complex process of damage accumulation and functional decline, increasing the risk of various chronic diseases. However, for now no drug can delay aging process nor cure aging-related diseases. Nutritional intervention is considered as a key and effective strategy to promote healthy aging and improve life quality. Small berries, as one of the most common and popular fruits, have been demonstrated to improve cognitive function and possess neuroprotective activities. However, the anti-aging effects of small berries have not been systematically elucidated yet. This review mainly focuses on small berries' anti-aging activity studies involving small berry types, active components, the utilized model organism Caenorhabditis elegans (C. elegans), related signaling pathways, and molecular mechanisms. The purpose of this review is to propose effective strategies to evaluate the anti-aging effects of small berries and provide guidance for the development of anti-aging supplements from small berries.

Impact of Drying Methods on Phenolic Components and Antioxidant Activity of Sea Buckthorn (Hippophae rhamnoides L.) Berries from Different Varieties in China

Sea buckthorn berries are rich in bioactive compounds and can be used for medicine and food. The variety and drying method used have an important influence on quality. In this study, different sea buckthorn varieties from China were selected and dried with four common drying methods. The total phenolic content (TPC), total flavonoids content (TFC), contents of 12 phenolic compounds and antioxidant capacity in vitro were analyzed. The results showed that the TPC, TFC and antioxidant activity of two wild sea buckthorn berries were higher than those of three cultivated berries, and for the same varieties, measured chemical contents and antioxidant activity of the freeze-dried fruit were significantly higher than those obtained with three conventional drying methods. In addition, forty-one compounds in sea buckthorn berry were identified by UPLC-PDA-Q/TOF-MS, most of which were isorhamnetin derivatives. Multivariate statistical analysis revealed narcissin and isorhamnetin-3-O-glucoside varied significantly in sea buckthorn berries of different varieties and with different drying methods; they were potential quality markers. Strong correlations were found between TPC, gallic acid and antioxidant capacity (p < 0.05). The results revealed how components and antioxidant activity varied in different sea buckthorn, which provides a valuable reference for quality control and further development and utilization of sea buckthorn.

Neuroprotective effect of Bryophyllum pinnatum flavonoids against aluminum chloride-induced neurotoxicity in rats

Toxic metals such as aluminum accumulation in the brain have been associated with the pathophysiology of several neurodegenerative disorders. Bryophyllum pinnatum leaves contain a vast array of polyphenols, particularly flavonoids, that may play a role in the prevention of toxic and degenerative effects in the brain. This study assessed the neuro-restorative potential of leaves of B. pinnatum enriched flavonoid fraction (BPFRF) in aluminum-induced neurotoxicity in rats. Neurotoxicity was induced in male Wistar rats by oral administration of 150 mg/kg body weight of aluminum chloride (AlCl₃) for 21 days. Rats were grouped into five (n = 6); Control (untreated), Rivastigmine group, AlCl₃ group and BPFRF group (50 and 100 mg/kg b.wt.) for 21 days. Neuronal changes in the hippocampus and cortex were biochemically and histologically evaluated. Expression patterns of acetylcholinesterase (AChE) mRNA were assessed using semi-quantitative reverse-transcription-polymerase chain reaction protocols. Molecular interactions of BPFRF compounds were investigated in silico. The results revealed that oral administration of BPFRF ameliorated oxidative imbalance by augmenting antioxidant systems and decreasing lipid peroxidation caused by AlCl₃. BPFRF administration also contributed to the down-regulation of AChE mRNA transcripts and improved histological features in the hippocampus and cortex. Molecular docking studies revealed strong molecular interactions between BPFRF compounds, catalase, superoxide dismutase and glutathione peroxidase Overall, these findings suggest the neuroprotective effect of Bryophyllum pinnatum against aluminum-induced neurotoxicity.

New Insights into the Antioxidant Compounds of Achenes and Sprouted Buckwheat Cultivated in the Republic of Moldova

It is well known that both Fagopyrum esculentum species, buckwheat achenes and buckwheat germs, contain flavonoids, and that they can be considered functional foods. In the present study we have analyzed the total content of polyphenols (TPC) and flavonoids (TFC), as well as the antioxidant activity of buckwheat ahcenes originating from the Balti region, Republic of Moldova, and also of the buckwheat sprouts over seven days of germination. The content of phytochemicals in achenes and germinated buckwheat after three and seven days was determined by HPLC–MS analysis. Using the Folin–Ciocalteu method, we recorded an increase in TPC of 360%, and of 436% in TFC after seven days of buckwheat ahcene germination. We aimed to investigate the free radical scavenging properties of methanolic extracts from ahcenes and sprouted buckwheat. We identified and quantified flavonoids and lignans such as rutin, orientin, isoorientin, vitexin, quercetin, quercitrin, isorhamnetin, lutein, apigenin, catechins, coumestrol—which have countless beneficial effects on human health—using HPLC–MS. FTIR analysis also revealed the accumulation of phenolic compounds during germination. This is the first study on the identification and quantification of phytochemicals from buckwheat achenes and sprouts from the Balti region of the Republic of Moldova.

Exploring the mechanism of Danggui Buxue Decoction in regulating atherosclerotic disease network based on integrated pharmacological methods

OBJECTIVE

To explore the mechanism of Danggui Buxue Decoction (DGBXD) in regulating Atherosclerosis (AS) network based on integrated pharmacological methods.

METHODS

The active ingredients and targets of DGBXD are obtained from TCMSP database and ETCM. AS-related targets were collected from the Genecards and OMIM databases. The drug-disease protein interaction (PPI) networks were constructed by Cytoscape. Meanwhile, it was used to screen out densely interacting regions, namely clusters. Finally, Gene Ontology (GO) annotations are performed on the targets and genes in the cluster to obtain biological processes, and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) annotations are performed on the targets of the PPI network to obtain signaling pathways.

RESULTS

A total of 212 known targets, 265 potential targets and 229 AS genes were obtained. The 'DGBXD known-AS PPI network' and 'DGBXD-AS PPI Network' were constructed and analyzed. DGBXD can regulate inflammation, platelet activation, endothelial cell apoptosis, oxidative stress, lipid metabolism, vascular smooth muscle proliferation, angiogenesis, TNF, HIF-1, FoxO signaling pathway, etc. The experimental data showed that compared with the model group, the expressions of ICAM-1, VCAM-1, and interleukin (IL)-1β protein and mRNA in the DGBXD group decreased (P<0.05). However, plasma IL-1β, TNF-α, and MCP-1 in the DGBXD group were not significantly different from the model group (P>0.05).

CONCLUSION

The mechanism of DGBXD in the treatment of AS may be related to the improvement of extracellular matrix (ECM) deposition in the blood vessel wall and the anti-vascular local inflammatory response, which may provide a reference for the study of the mechanism of DGBXD.

Effects of aqueous extract of Medicago denticulata against paracetamol-induced hepatotoxicity in rabbits

Medicago denticulata is commonly used as a leafy vegetable, salad, and food ingredient. In this study, different doses of leaves aqueous extract of M. denticulata (MD) were fed to intoxicated rabbits with paracetamol (100, 200, and 300 mg/kg) for regular 21 days. The aqueous extract was evaluated for phenolic composition using HPLC-DAD. Serum biochemical and hematological parameters were studied to check its activity. The liver was examined histologically and for antioxidant status. Results revealed that paracetamol led to a significant alteration in all the hematological (RBC, WBC, Hb, PLT, and HCT), and serum lipid parameters (TC, HDL, LDL, and TG) while MD at the dose rate of 300 mg/kg had a curative effect on the stabilization of the affected parameters. The high dose of MD ameliorated different antioxidant parameters such as reduced glutathione (GSH), DPPH radical scavenging activity (RSA), and thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) of the liver on day 21st of the treatment. Histological studies revealed significant paracetamol-induced toxicity of the liver, whereas the MD had positive effects on induced toxicity. Improvement in all these alterations confirms the curative potential of Medicago denticulata extract. PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS: Paracetamol is a well-known antipyretic and analgesic medicine. However, it has been found to cause toxicity including hepatotoxicity. Synthetic drugs such as statins, antibiotics, and anti-viral are used for curing hepatic diseases also cause severe side effects. Thus, nutraceuticals from plant foods are used to reduce the side effects of different hepatotoxic medicine are continuously researched. This study reported for the first time that aqueous extract of the plant leaves was protective against the hepatotoxicity induced by paracetamol.

Shenjinhuoxue Mixture Attenuates Inflammation, Pain, and Cartilage Degeneration by Inhibiting TLR-4 and NF-κB Activation in Rats with Osteoarthritis: A Synergistic Combination of Multitarget Active Phytochemicals

Osteoarthritis (OA), a highly prevalent chronic joint disease, involves a complex network of inflammatory mediators that not only triggers pain and cartilage degeneration but also accelerates disease progression. Traditional Chinese medicinal shenjinhuoxue mixture (SHM) shows anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects against OA with remarkable clinical efficacy. This study explored the mechanism underlying anti-OA properties of SHM and evaluated its efficacy and safety via in vivo experiments. Through network pharmacology and published literature, we identified the key active phytochemicals in SHM, including β-sitosterol, oleanolic acid, licochalcone A, quercetin, isorhamnetin, kaempferol, morusin, lupeol, and pinocembrin; the pivotal targets of which are TLR-4 and NF-κB, eliciting anti-OA activity. These phytochemicals can enter the active pockets of TLR-4 and NF-κB with docking score ≤ -3.86 kcal/mol, as shown in molecular docking models. By using surface plasmon resonance assay, licochalcone A and oleanolic acid were found to have good TLR-4-binding affinity. In OA rats, oral SHM at mid and high doses (8.72 g/kg and 26.2 g/kg) over 6 weeks significantly alleviated mechanical and thermal hyperalgesia (P < 0.0001). Accordingly, the expression of inflammatory mediators (TLR-4, interleukin (IL-) 1 receptor-associated kinase 1 (IRAK1), NF-κB-p65, tumor necrosis factor (TNF-) α, IL-6, and IL-1β), receptor activator of the NF-κB ligand (RANKL), and transient receptor potential vanilloid 1 (TRPV1) in the synovial and cartilage tissue of OA rats was significantly decreased (P < 0.05). Moreover, pathological observation illustrated amelioration of cartilage degeneration and joint injury. In chronic toxicity experiment of rats, SHM at 60 mg/kg demonstrated the safety. SHM had an anti-inflammatory effect through a synergistic combination of active phytochemicals to attenuate pain and cartilage degeneration by inhibiting TLR-4 and NF-κB activation. This study provided the experimental foundation for the development of SHM into a more effective dosage form or new drugs for OA treatment.

The Fading Wild Plant Food-Medicines in Upper Chitral, NW Pakistan

The subject of food-medicines (foods ingested in order to obtain a therapeutic activity or to prevent diseases) is garnering increasing attention from both ethnobiologists and ethnopharmacologists as diet-related chronic diseases are one of the major problems resulting in a large proportion of deaths globally, which calls for interest from the scientific community to make sensible decisions in the field of food and medicine. In this regard, the current study is an important attempt at providing baseline data for developing healthy and curative food ingredients. This study aimed at recording the culinary and medicinal uses of wild food plants (WFPs) in the remote Mastuj Valley, located at the extreme north of Chitral District, Pakistan. An ethnobotanical survey was completed via 30 in-depth semi-structured interviews with local knowledge holders to record the food and medicinal uses of WFPs in the study area. A total of 43 WFPs were recorded, most of which were used as cooked vegetables and raw snacks. Leaves were the most frequently used plant part. A remarkable proportion (81%) of use reports for the recorded wild plant taxa were quoted as food-medicines or medicinal foods, while very few were reported as either food or medicines, without any relationship between uses in these two domains. Previous ethnomedicinal studies from nearby regions have shown that most of the recorded wild plants have been used as medicines, thus supporting the findings of the current study. A literature survey revealed that many of the reported medicinal uses (33%) for the quoted WFPs were not verifiable on PubMed as they have not been studied for their respective medicinal actions. We observed that most of the plants quoted here have disappeared from the traditional food and medicinal system, which may be attributed to the invasion of the food market and the prevalence of allopathic medicine. However, knowledge of these wild plants is still alive in memory, and women are the main holders of cultural knowledge as they use it to manage the cooking and processing of WFPs. Therefore, in this context, we strongly recommend the preservation of local biocultural heritage, promoted through future development and educational programs, which could represent a timely response to the loss of cultural and traditional knowledge.

Anti-Oxidative, Anti-Inflammatory and Anti-Apoptotic Effects of Flavonols: Targeting Nrf2, NF-κB and p53 Pathways in Neurodegeneration

Neurodegenerative diseases are one of the leading causes of disability and death worldwide. Intracellular transduction pathways that end in the activation of specific transcription factors are highly implicated in the onset and progression of pathological changes related to neurodegeneration, of which those related to oxidative stress (OS) and neuroinflammation are particularly important. Here, we provide a brief overview of the key concepts related to OS- and neuroinflammation-mediated neuropathological changes in neurodegeneration, together with the role of transcription factors nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) and nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB). This review is focused on the transcription factor p53 that coordinates the cellular response to diverse genotoxic stimuli, determining neuronal death or survival. As current pharmacological options in the treatment of neurodegenerative disease are only symptomatic, many research efforts are aimed at uncovering efficient disease-modifying agents. Natural polyphenolic compounds demonstrate powerful anti-oxidative, anti-inflammatory and anti-apoptotic effects, partially acting as modulators of signaling pathways. Herein, we review the current understanding of the therapeutic potential and limitations of flavonols in neuroprotection, with emphasis on their anti-oxidative, anti-inflammatory and anti-apoptotic effects along the Nrf2, NF-κB and p53 pathways. A better understanding of cellular and molecular mechanisms of their action may pave the way toward new treatments.

An overview on therapeutic and medicinal potential of poly-hydroxy flavone viz. Heptamethoxyflavone, Kaempferitrin, Vitexin and Amentoflavone for management of Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases: a critical analysis on mechanistic insight

Neurodegenerative disorders occur when nerve cells in the brain or peripheral nervous system partial or complete fail in their functions and sometimes even die due to some injuries or aging. Neurodegenerative disorders such as Alzheimer's Disease (AD) and Parkinson's Disease (PD), have been majorly resulted due to degeneration of neurons and neuroinflammation progressively. There are many similarities that correlates both AD and PD on a cellular and sub-cellular level. Therefore, a hope for therapeutic advancement for simultaneous upgradation in both the diseases are directly depending on the discovery of common mechanism at molecular and cellular level. Recent and past evidences from scientific literature supporting the efficacy of plants flavonoids in treatment and protection of both AD and PD. Further, dietary flavones, specially Heptamethoxyflavone, Kaempferitrin, Vitexin and Amentoflavone gains recently much more attention for producing many health beneficiary effects including neuroprotection. Despite of these evidence a detailed updated overview of neuroprotective effects against both AD and PD by Heptamethoxyflavone, Kaempferitrin, Vitexin and Amentoflavone are still missing. In this context several published studies were assessed by using various online electronic search engines/databases to meet the objective from 1981 to 2021 (Approx. 224). Therefore, present review was designed to deliver the detailed description on these flavones including therapeutic benefits in AD, PD and other CNS complications with critical analysis on underlying mechanisms.

Key points for the development of antioxidant cocktails to prevent cellular stress and damage caused by reactive oxygen species (ROS) during manned space missions

Exposure to microgravity and ionizing radiation during spaceflight missions causes excessive reactive oxygen species (ROS) production that contributes to cellular stress and damage in astronauts. Average spaceflight mission time is expected to lengthen as humanity aims to visit other planets. However, longer missions or spaceflights will undoubtedly lead to an increment in microgravity, ionizing radiation and ROS production. Strategies to minimize ROS damage are necessary to maintain the health of astronauts, future space colonists, and tourists during and after spaceflight missions. An antioxidant cocktail formulated to prevent or mitigate ROS damage during space exploration could help maintain the health of space explorers. We propose key points to consider when developing an antioxidant cocktail. We discuss how ROS damages our body and organs, the genetic predisposition of astronauts to its damage, characteristics and evidence of the effectiveness of antioxidants to combat excess ROS, differences in drug metabolism when on Earth and in space that could modify antioxidant effects, and the characteristics and efficacy of common antioxidants. Based on this information we propose a workflow for assessing astronaut resistance to ROS damage, infight monitoring of ROS production, and an antioxidant cocktail. Developing an antioxidant cocktail represents a big challenge to translate current medical practices from an Earth setting to space. The key points presented in this review could promote the development of different antioxidant formulations to maintain space explorers' health in the future.

Propolis and Its Gastroprotective Effects on NSAID-Induced Gastric Ulcer Disease: A Systematic Review

Gastric ulcer disease induced by the consumption of NSAIDs is a major public health problem. The therapy used for its treatment causes adverse effects in the patient. Propolis is a natural product that has been used for the treatments of different diseases around the world. Nevertheless, there is little information about the activity of propolis in gastric ulcers caused by treatment with NSAIDs. Therefore, this review evaluates and compares the gastroprotective potential of propolis and its function against NSAID-induced gastric ulcers, for which a systematic search was carried out in the PubMed and ScienceDirect databases. The main criteria were articles that report the gastroprotective activity of propolis against the damage produced by NSAIDs in the gastric mucosa. Gastroprotection was related to the antioxidant, antisecretory, and cytoprotective effects, as well as the phenolic compounds present in the chemical composition of propolis. However, most of the studies used different doses of NSAIDs and propolis and evaluated different parameters. Propolis has proven to be a good alternative for the treatment of gastric ulcer disease. However, future studies should be carried out to identify the compounds responsible for these effects and to determine their potential use in people.

Mechanism Prediction of Astragalus membranaceus against Cisplatin-Induced Kidney Damage by Network Pharmacology and Molecular Docking

Background

Cisplatin is a frequently used and effective chemotherapy drug in clinical practice, but severe side effects limit its use, among which nephrotoxicity is considered the most serious and prolonged damage to the body. Astragalus membranaceus (AM) is a well-known herbal medicine, and modern pharmacological studies have confirmed its antioxidant, immunomodulatory, and antiapoptotic effects. Clinical studies have shown that AM and its active components can attenuate cisplatin-induced kidney damage, but the molecular mechanism has not been fully expounded.

Materials and Methods

First, the components and targets information of AM were collected from the TCMSP, and the relevant targets of cisplatin-induced kidney damage were accessed from the GeneCards and OMIM databases. Then, the core targets were selected by the Venn diagram and network topology analysis, which was followed by GO and KEGG pathway enrichment analysis. Finally, we construct a component-target-pathway network. Furthermore, molecular docking was carried out to identify the binding activity between active components and key targets.

Results

A total of 20 active components and 200 targets of AM and 646 targets related to cisplatin-induced kidney damage were obtained. 91 intersection targets were found between AM and cisplatin-induced kidney damage. Then, 16 core targets were identified, such as MAPK1, TNF-α, and p53. Furthermore, GO and KEGG pathway enrichment analysis suggested that MAPK, Toll-like receptor, and PI3K-Akt signaling pathways may be of significance in the treatment of cisplatin-induced kidney damage by AM. Molecular docking indicated that quercetin and kaempferol had high binding affinities with many core targets.

Conclusion

In summary, the active components, key targets, and signaling pathways of AM in the treatment of cisplatin-induced kidney damage were predicted in this study, which contributed to the development and application of AM.

The Involvement of Natural Polyphenols in the Chemoprevention of Cervical Cancer

From all types of cancer, cervical cancer manages to be in top four most frequent types, with a 6.5% rate of occurrence. The infectious vector that induces the disease, the high-risk Human papillomavirus (HPV), which is a sexually transmitted virus, is capable of transforming the host cell by modulating some of the principal signaling pathways responsible for cell cycle arrest, proliferation, and survival. Fortunately, like other cancer types, cervical cancer can be treated by chirurgical interventions or chemoradiotherapy, but these methods are not exactly the lucky clover of modern medicine because of the adverse effects they have. That is the reason why in the last years the emphasis has been on alternative medicine, more specifically on phytochemicals, as a substantial number of studies showed that diet contributes to cancer prevention and treatment. All these studies are trying to find new chemopreventive agents with less toxicity but high effectiveness both in vitro and in vivo. The aim of this review is to evaluate the literature in order to underline the advantages and disadvantages of polyphenols, a class of dietary compounds, as chemopreventive and chemotherapeutic agents. This review also aims to present polyphenols from different perspectives, starting with mechanisms of action and ending with their toxicity. The bigger picture illustrates that polyphenols have great potential in cervical cancer prevention, with strong effects on gene modulation.

Isorhamnetin inhibits amplification of influenza A H1N1 virus inflammation mediated by interferon via the RIG-I/JNK pathway

BACKGROUND

Interferon (IFN) amplifies the influenza virus-mediated inflammatory response by forming a paracrine signal feedback loop, which is considered an important cause of excessive inflammatory damage. Isorhamnetin has a wide spectrum of beneficial pharmacological properties, including anti-inflammatory and antiviral effects. The regulatory effect and mechanism of isorhamnetin on influenza virus-mediated inflammation have not yet been reported.

METHODS

We pre-treated A549 cells with IFN-β (50 ng/mL) for 4 h followed by IAV (H1N1) infection to simulate the inflammation amplification effect caused by the paracrine effect of IFN-β. The anti-inflammation activity of isorhamnetin against amplification inflammation of interferon mediated by IAV (H1N1) was assessed by performing quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR), western blotting, and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) in A549 cells.

RESULTS

Compared with the virus infection group, the IFN-β pretreatment virus infection group had an upregulated level of pro-inflammatory cytokine expression, which was inhibited by isorhamnetin significantly via the retinoic acid-induced gene I (RIG-I)/c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK) signaling pathway. Molecular docking studies further verified that isorhamnetin can interact with JNK.

CONCLUSIONS

Our work was the first to demonstrate the anti-inflammatory activity and mechanism of isorhamnetin during influenza virus infection. Isorhamnetin significantly improves the excessive inflammatory response mediated by IAV (H1N1) infection mainly via the RIG-I/JNK pathway. Additionally, isorhamnetin exhibited an apparent antiviral effect of H1N1 in vitro.

Network Pharmacology/Metabolomics-Based Validation of AMPK and PI3K/AKT Signaling Pathway as a Central Role of Shengqi Fuzheng Injection Regulation of Mitochondrial Dysfunction in Cancer-Related Fatigue

Chinese herbal medicines have multiple targets and properties, and their use in multidisciplinary cancer therapies has consequently received increasing attention. Here, we have investigated the possible active ingredients associated with cancer-related fatigue (CRF) in the Shengqi Fuzheng Injection (SFI). In vitro cell models were used to measure the regulation effects of SFI on CRF. Metabolomic analysis was used to identify the potential genes and pathways in C2C12 mouse myoblasts treated with SFI, and the interaction of compounds and CRF targets was predicted using network pharmacology and molecular docking analyses. The putative pathways were further verified using immuno-blotting assays. The results showed that SFI significantly inhibited muscle cell apoptosis and increased the mitochondrial membrane potential of muscle cells. The network pharmacology analysis results identified 36 candidate compounds, and 244 potential targets were yielded by SFI, and they shared 10 key targets associated with cancer-related fatigue. According to the enrichment analysis and experimental validation, SFI might ameliorate muscle cell mitochondrial function by activating AMPK and inhibiting the PI3K/Akt signaling pathways, and the expression changes of mitochondrial metabolic enzymes MnSOD and apoptosis-associated proteins Bax and Bcl-2 were also triggered. The functions and mechanisms of SFI in anticancer-related fatigue were found here to be at least partly due to the targeting of the AMPK and PI3K/Akt signaling pathways, and this has highlighted new potential applications for network pharmacology when researching Chinese Medicines.

Variations in Flavonoid Metabolites Along Altitudinal Gradient in a Desert Medicinal Plant Agriophyllum squarrosum

Agriophyllum squarrosum (L.) Moq., a pioneer plant endemic to the temperate deserts of Asia, could be domesticated into an ideal crop with outstanding ecological and medicinal characteristics. A previous study showed differential flavonoid accumulation between two in situ altitudinal ecotypes. To verify whether this accumulation was determined by environmental or genetic factors, we conducted flavonoid-targeted metabolic profiling among 14 populations of A. squarrosum collected from regions with different altitudes based on a common garden experiment. Results showed that the most abundant flavonoid in A. squarrosum was isorhamnetin (48.40%, 557.45 μg/g), followed by quercetin (13.04%, 150.15 μg/g), tricin (11.17%, 128.70 μg/g), isoquercitrin (7.59%, 87.42 μg/g), isovitexin (7.20%, 82.94 μg/g), and rutin (7.00%, 80.62 μg/g). However, based on a common garden at middle-altitude environment, almost none of the flavonoids was enriched in the high-altitude populations, and even some flavonoids, such as quercetin, tricin, and rutin, were significantly enriched in low-altitude populations. This phenomenon indicated that the accumulation of flavonoids was not a result of local adaptation to high altitude. Furthermore, association analysis with in situ environmental variables showed that the contents of quercetin, tricin, and rutin were strongly positively correlated with latitude, longitude, and precipitation gradients and negatively correlated with temperature gradients. Thus, we could conclude that the accumulations of flavonoids in A. squarrosum were more likely as a result of local adaption to environmental heterogeneity combined with precipitation and temperature other than high altitude. This study not only provides an example to understand the molecular ecological basis of pharmacognosy, but also supplies methodologies for developing a new industrial crop with ecological and agricultural importance.

Isorhamnetin Promotes Estrogen Biosynthesis and Proliferation in Porcine Granulosa Cells via the PI3K/Akt Signaling Pathway

Isorhamnetin is a natural flavonoid widely distributed in fruits and vegetables. However, the roles of isorhamnetin involved in steroidogenesis, proliferation, and apoptosis in ovarian granulosa cells (GCs) are poorly understood. We found that isorhamnetin promoted the secretion of estrogen and inhibited the secretion of progesterone and testosterone by modulating steroidogenesis-associated proteins and mRNA such as CYP19A1, StAR, and 3β-HSD in ovarian GCs. Mechanistically, isorhamnetin stimulated the expression of the proliferating cell nuclear antigen and C-myc and promoted the proliferation of GCs via the PI3K/Akt signaling pathway. Furthermore, isorhamnetin increased the protein expression of CyclinB, CyclinD, CyclinE, and CyclinA, thereby raising the ratio of S-phase cells in response to GC proliferation. Changes in the expression of apoptosis-associated proteins (Bcl2, Bax, and cytochrome c) and intracellular reactive oxygen species levels showed that isorhamnetin inhibited GC apoptosis. Collectively, these findings indicate that isorhamnetin regulates steroidogenesis through the activation of PI3K/Akt, which promotes proliferation, inhibits apoptosis, and alleviates oxidative stress.

Metabolic profiling and gene expression analysis provides insights into flavonoid and anthocyanin metabolism in poplar

Poplar, a woody perennial model, is a common and widespread tree genus. We cultivated two red leaf poplar varieties from bud mutation of Populus sp. Linn. '2025' (also known as Zhonglin 2025, L2025 for shot): Populus deltoides varieties with bright red leaves (LHY) and completely red leaves (QHY). After measuring total contents of flavonoid, anthocyanin, chlorophyll and carotenoid metabolites, a liquid chromatography-electrospray ionization-tandem mass spectrometry system was used for the relative quantification of widely targeted metabolites in leaves of three poplar varieties. A total of 210 flavonoid metabolites (89 flavones, 40 flavonols, 25 flavanones, 18 anthocyanins, 16 isoflavones, 7 dihydroflavonols, 7 chalcones, 5 proanthocyanidins and 3 other flavonoid metabolites) were identified. Compared with L2025, 48 and 8 flavonoids were more and less abundant, respectively, in LHY, whereas 51 and 9 flavonoids were more and less abundant in QHY, respectively. On the basis of a comprehensive analysis of the metabolic network, gene expression levels were analyzed by deep sequencing to screen for potential reference genes for the red leaves. Most phenylpropanoid biosynthesis pathway-involved genes were differentially expressed among the examined varieties. Gene expression analysis also revealed several potential anthocyanin biosynthesis regulators including three MYB genes. The study results provide new insights into poplar flavonoid metabolites and represent the theoretical basis for future studies on leaf coloration in this model tree species.

Based on Network Pharmacology and Molecular Docking to Explore the Underlying Mechanism of Huangqi Gegen Decoction for Treating Diabetic Nephropathy

Background

Huangqi Gegen decoction (HGD), a Chinese herb formula, has been widely used to treat diabetic nephropathy in China, while the pharmacological mechanisms are still unclear. Therefore, the present study aims to explore the underlying mechanism of HGD for treating diabetic nephropathy (DN).

Materials and Methods

Traditional Chinese Medicine Systems Pharmacology Database (TCMSP), UniProt, and SwissTargetPrediction databases were used to search the active ingredients and potential targets of HGD. In addition, multiple disease-related databases were used to collect DN-related targets. Common targets of the protein-protein interaction (PPI) network were established using the STRING database. Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway enrichment analyses were performed using the DAVID database. At last, AutoDockVina was used to conduct molecular docking verification for the core components and targets.

Results

A total of 27 active ingredients and 354 putative identified target genes were screened from HGD, of which 99 overlapped with the targets of DN and were considered potential therapeutic targets. Further analysis showed that the HGD activity of quercetin, formononetin, kaempferol, isorhamnetin, and beta-sitosterol ingredients is possible through VEGFA, IL6, TNF, AKT1, and TP53 targets involved in TNF, toll-like receptors, and MAPK-related pathways, which have anti-inflammatory, antiapoptosis, antioxidation, and autophagy effects, relieve renal fibrosis and renal cortex injury, and improve renal function, thus delaying the development of DN. The molecular docking results showed that quercetin, formononetin, kaempferol, isorhamnetin, beta-sitosterol had a good binding activity with VEGFA, IL6, TNF, AKT1, and TP53.

Conclusion

This study demonstrated that HGD might take part in the treatment of DN through multicomponent, multitarget, and multichannel combined action.

Isorhamnetin Alleviates High Glucose-Aggravated Inflammatory Response and Apoptosis in Oxygen-Glucose Deprivation and Reoxygenation-Induced HT22 Hippocampal Neurons Through Akt/SIRT1/Nrf2/HO-1 Signaling Pathway

This study is aimed at exploring the potential of isorhamnetin in protection against diabetes-exacerbated ischemia/reperfusion-induced brain injury and elucidating its action mechanism. After establishment of the model of high glucose (HG)-aggravated oxygen-glucose deprivation and reoxygenation (OGD/R), HT22 cell viability was detected by CCK-8. Lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) activity, casapase-3 activity, and oxidative stress-related markers in HT22 cells were detected by corresponding commercial kits. The apoptosis of HG-treated HT22 cells following OGD/R was observed with TUNEL staining. The level of pro-inflammatory cytokines was examined by ELISA. The expression of Akt/SIRT1/Nrf2/HO-1 signaling-related proteins was assayed by Western blot. The results showed that HG noticeably worsened the OGD/R-induced apoptosis of HT22 cells. Isorhamnetin relieved the HG-aggravated OGD/R-induced apoptosis, inflammatory response, and oxidative stress of HT22 cells. Isorhamnetin alleviated the HG-aggravated OGD/R injury in HT22 cells through Akt/SIRT1/Nrf2/HO-1 signaling pathway. Meanwhile, treatment with Akt inhibitor LY294002 reversed the protective effects of isorhamnetin against HG-aggravated OGD/R injury in HT22 cells. In a conclusion, Isorhamnetin alleviates HG-aggravated OGD/R in HT22 hippocampal neurons through Akt/SIRT1/Nrf2/HO-1 signaling pathway.

Tibetan Medicine Duoxuekang Capsule Ameliorates High-Altitude Polycythemia Accompanied by Brain Injury

Objective: Duoxuekang (DXK) capsule is an empirical prescription for Tibetan medicine in the treatment of hypobaric hypoxia (HH)-induced brain injury in the plateau. This study aimed to investigate the protective effects and underlying molecular mechanisms of DXK on HH-induced brain injury.

Methods: UPLC–Q-TOF/MS was performed for chemical composition analysis of DXK. The anti-hypoxia and anti-fatigue effects of DXK were evaluated by the normobaric hypoxia test, sodium nitrite toxicosis test, and weight-loaded swimming test in mice. Simultaneously, SD rats were used for the chronic hypobaric hypoxia (CHH) test. RBC, HGB, HCT, and the whole blood viscosity were evaluated. The activities of SOD and MDA in the brain, and EPO and LDH levels in the kidney were detected using ELISA. H&E staining was employed to observe the pathological morphology in the hippocampus and cortex of rats. Furthermore, immunofluorescence and Western blot were carried out to detect the protein expressions of Mapk10, RASGRF1, RASA3, Ras, and IGF-IR in the brain of rats. Besides, BALB/c mice were used for acute hypobaric hypoxia (AHH) test, and Western blot was employed to detect the protein expression of p-ERK/ERK, p-JNK/JNK, and p-p38/p38 in the cerebral cortex of mice.

Results: 23 different chemical compositions of DXK were identified by UPLC–Q-TOF/MS. The anti-hypoxia test verified that DXK can prolong the survival time of mice. The anti-fatigue test confirmed that DXK can prolong the swimming time of mice, decrease the level of LDH, and increase the hepatic glycogen level. Synchronously, DXK can decrease the levels of RBC, HGB, HCT, and the whole blood viscosity under the CHH condition. Besides, DXK can ameliorate CHH-induced brain injury, decrease the levels of EPO and LDH in the kidney, reduce MDA, and increase SOD in the hippocampus. Furthermore, DXK can converse HH-induced marked increase of Mapk10, RASGRF1, and RASA3, and decrease of Ras and IGF-IR. In addition, DXK can suppress the ratio of p-ERK/ERK, p-JNK/JNK, and p-p38/p38 under the HH condition.

Conclusion: Together, the cerebral protection elicited by DXK was due to the decrease of hematological index, suppressing EPO, by affecting the MAPK signaling pathway in oxidative damage, and regulating the RAS signaling pathway.

Prediction of the therapeutic mechanism responsible for the effects of Sophora japonica flower buds on contact dermatitis by network-based pharmacological analysis

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

The flower buds of Sophora japonica L. are a major traditional medicine in China, Japan, and Korea and are used to stop bleeding and 'cool the blood'. Accordingly, they are used to treat bleeding haemorrhoids, hypertension, and pyoderma. In addition, it was recently found that the flower buds of S. japonica (SJ) have cosmetic whitening properties.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Compounds in SJ and their targets and related diseases were investigated using the Traditional Chinese Medicine Systems Pharmacology (TCMSP) database and analysis platform. Target gene information was obtained from the UniProt database. Network construction was carried out using Cytoscape 3.72. Contact dermatitis (CD)-related gene searching was performed using the Cytoscape string App. Docking analysis was conducted using AutoDock Vina. Six-week-old Balb/c male mice with DNFB (1-fluoro-2,4-dinitrofluorobenzene)-induced CD were treated with a methanol extract of the flower buds of S. japonica (MESJ), and its effects on skin colour, lesions, and immune cell infiltration, and on histopathological abnormalities such as epidermal hyperplasia were investigated.

RESULTS

Eleven compounds targeted 13 CD-related genes, that is, serum albumin (ALB), prostaglandin G/H synthase (COX) 2, C-X-C motif chemokine (CXCL) 2, CXCL10, ICAM1, IFN-γ, IL-10, IL-1α, IL-1β, IL-2, IL-6, E-selectin, and TNF. In the murine DNFB model, MESJ significantly suppressed scaling, erythema, and skin thickening as compared with DNFB controls and epithelial hyperplasia and immune cell infiltrations induced by repeated DNFB application.

CONCLUSIONS

Our animal study showed that the mode of action of MESJ was closely related to the prevention of epithelial hyperplasia and immune cell infiltration. The results obtained demonstrated that the flower buds of S. japonica offer a potential means of treating CD, and suggest that the therapeutic mechanism of CD is explained by relations between 11 major components of SJ, including kaempferol and quercetin, and 13 CD-related genes.

Antiplatelet Activity of Isorhamnetin via Mitochondrial Regulation

With the diet, we ingest nutrients capable of modulating platelet function, which plays a crucial role in developing cardiovascular events, one of the leading causes of mortality worldwide. Studies that demonstrate the antiplatelet and antithrombotic potential of bioactive compounds are vital to maintaining good cardiovascular health. In this work, we evaluate the flavonol isorhamnetin’s antiplatelet effect on human platelets, using collagen, thrombin receptor activator peptide 6 (TRAP-6), and phorbol myristate acetate (PMA) as agonists. Isorhamnetin induced a significant inhibition on collagen- and TRAP-6-induced platelet aggregation, with half-maximum inhibitory concentration (IC₅₀) values of 8.1 ± 2.6 and 16.1 ± 11.1 µM, respectively; while it did not show cytotoxic effect. Isorhamnetin reduced adenosine triphosphate levels (ATP) in platelets stimulated by collagen and TRAP-6. We also evidenced that isorhamnetin’s antiplatelet activity was related to the inhibition of mitochondrial function without effect on reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels. Additionally, we investigated isorhamnetin’s effect on thrombus formation in vitro under flow conditions on the damaged vessel wall. In this context, we demonstrate that isorhamnetin at 20 µM induced a significant inhibition on platelet deposition, confirming its antithrombotic effect. Our findings corroborate the antiplatelet and antithrombotic potential of isorhamnetin present in many foods of daily consumption.

Isorhamnetin Ameliorates Dry Eye Disease via CFTR Activation in Mice

Dry eye disease is one of the most common diseases, with increasing prevalence in many countries, but treatment options are limited. Cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) is a major ion channel that facilitates fluid secretion in ocular surface epithelium and is a potential target of therapeutic agent for the treatment of dry eye disease. In this study, we performed a cell-based, high-throughput screening for the identification of novel natural products that activate CFTR and restore the aqueous deficiency in dry eye. Screening of 1000 natural products revealed isorhamnetin, a flavonol aglycone, as a novel CFTR activator. Electrophysiological studies showed that isorhamnetin significantly increased CFTR chloride current, both wild type and ∆F508-CFTR. Isorhamnetin did not alter intracellular cAMP levels and the activity of other ion channels, including ANO1, ENaC, and hERG. Notably, application of isorhamnetin on mouse ocular surface induced CFTR activation and increased tear volume. In addition, isorhamnetin significantly reduced ocular surface damage and expression of interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-8, and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α in an experimental mouse model of dry eye. These data suggest that isorhamnetin may be used to treat dry eye disease.

Morin hydrate: A comprehensive review on novel natural dietary bioactive compound with versatile biological and pharmacological potential

Flavonoids are natural plant-derived dietary bioactive compounds having a substantial impact on human health. Morin hydrate is a bioflavonoid mainly obtained from fruits, stem, and leaves of Moraceae family members' plants. Plenty of evidences supported that morin hydrate exerts its beneficial effects against various chronic and life-threatening degenerative diseases. Our current article discloses the recent advances that have been studied to explore the biological/pharmacological properties and molecular mechanisms to better understand the beneficial and multiple health benefits of morin hydrate. Indeed, Morin hydrate exerts free radical scavenging, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-cancerous, anti-microbial, antidiabetic, anti-arthritis, cardioprotective, neuroprotective, nephroprotective, and hepatoprotective effects. Moreover, morin hydrate exhibits its pharmacological activities by modulating various cellular signaling pathways such as Nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells (NF-қB), Mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK), Janus kinases/ Signal transducer and activator of transcription proteins (JAKs/STATs), Kelch-like ECH-associated protein1/Nuclear erythroid-2-related factor (Keap1/Nrf2), Endoplasmic reticulum (ER), Mitochondrial-mediated apoptosis, Wnt/β-catenin, and Mechanistic target of rapamycin (mTOR). Most importantly, morin hydrate has the potential to modulate a variety of biological networks. Therefore, it can be predicted that this therapeutically potent compound could serve as a dietary agent for the expansion of human health and might be helpful for the development of the novel drug in the future. However, due to the lack of clinical trials, special human clinical trials are needed to address the effects of morin hydrate on various life-threatening disparities to recommend morin and/or morin-rich foods with other foods or bioactive dietary components, as well as dose-response interaction and safety profile.