Two related phenolic antioxidants with opposite effects on vitamin E content in low density lipoproteins oxidized by ferrylmyoglobin: consumption vs regeneration

Natural antioxidants from some fruits, seeds, foods, natural products, and associated health benefits: An update

Antioxidants are compounds that inhibit the oxidation of other molecules and protect the body from the effects of free radicals, produced either by normal cell metabolism or as an effect of pollution and exposure to other external factors and are responsible for premature aging and play a role in cardiovascular disease. degenerative diseases such as cataracts, Alzheimer's disease, and cancer. While many antioxidants are found in nature, others are obtained in synthetic form and reduce oxidative stress in organisms. This review highlights the pharmacological relevance of antioxidants in fruits, plants, and other natural sources and their beneficial effect on human health through the analysis and in-depth discussion of studies that included phytochemistry and their pharmacological effects. The information obtained for this review was collected from several scientific databases (ScienceDirect, TRIP database, PubMed/Medline, Scopus, Web of Science), professional websites, and traditional medicine books. Current pharmacological studies and evidence have shown that the various natural antioxidants present in some fruits, seeds, foods, and natural products have different health-promoting effects. Adopting functional foods with high antioxidant potential will improve the effective and affordable management of free radical diseases while avoiding the toxicities and unwanted side effects caused by conventional medication.

Polyphenols Targeting Oxidative Stress in Spinal Cord Injury: Current Status and Future Vision

A spinal cord injury (SCI) occurs when the spinal cord is deteriorated or traumatized, leading to motor and sensory functions lost even totally or partially. An imbalance within the generation of reactive oxygen species and antioxidant defense levels results in oxidative stress (OS) and neuroinflammation. After SCI, OS and occurring pathways of inflammations are significant strenuous drivers of cross-linked dysregulated pathways. It emphasizes the significance of multitarget therapy in combating SCI consequences. Polyphenols, which are secondary metabolites originating from plants, have the promise to be used as alternative therapeutic agents to treat SCI. Secondary metabolites have activity on neuroinflammatory, neuronal OS, and extrinsic axonal dysregulated pathways during the early stages of SCI. Experimental and clinical investigations have noted the possible importance of phenolic compounds as important phytochemicals in moderating upstream dysregulated OS/inflammatory signaling mediators and axonal regeneration's extrinsic pathways after the SCI probable significance of phenolic compounds as important phytochemicals in mediating upstream dysregulated OS/inflammatory signaling mediators. Furthermore, combining polyphenols could be a way to lessen the effects of SCI.

Effects of Polyphenols on Oxidative Stress, Inflammation, and Interconnected Pathways during Spinal Cord Injury

Despite the progression in targeting the complex pathophysiological mechanisms of neurodegenerative diseases (NDDs) and spinal cord injury (SCI), there is a lack of effective treatments. Moreover, conventional therapies suffer from associated side effects and low efficacy, raising the need for finding potential alternative therapies. In this regard, a comprehensive review was done regarding revealing the main neurological dysregulated pathways and providing alternative therapeutic agents following SCI. From the mechanistic point, oxidative stress and inflammatory pathways are major upstream orchestras of cross-linked dysregulated pathways (e.g., apoptosis, autophagy, and extrinsic mechanisms) following SCI. It urges the need for developing multitarget therapies against SCI complications. Polyphenols, as plant-derived secondary metabolites, have the potential of being introduced as alternative therapeutic agents to pave the way for treating SCI. Such secondary metabolites presented modulatory effects on neuronal oxidative stress, neuroinflammatory, and extrinsic axonal dysregulated pathways in the onset and progression of SCI. In the present review, the potential role of phenolic compounds as critical phytochemicals has also been revealed in regulating upstream dysregulated oxidative stress/inflammatory signaling mediators and extrinsic mechanisms of axonal regeneration after SCI in preclinical and clinical studies. Additionally, the coadministration of polyphenols and stem cells has shown a promising strategy for improving post-SCI complications.

Ethnobotany, phytochemistry, pharmacology, and toxicity of Centella asiatica (L.) Urban: A comprehensive review

The well-known medicinal plant Centella asiatica (L.) Urban is an Ayurvedic and traditional Chinese medicine used in the treatment of different health problems and as an edible vegetable in a regular diet. Ease of availability in the wide range of environmental conditions plus low-cost cultivation process has made the plant popular in ethno-medicinal healthcare systems. In the present review, phytochemical analysis of plant-extract and pharmacological activities of bioactive-compounds are discussed based upon the available reports to understand their therapeutic potentialities along with the mechanisms behind. The results exhibited that C. asiatica and its triterpenoids demonstrated an array of pharmacological effects and health benefits, some of which were confirmed in many preclinical and clinical studies. Those reports also provided considerable evidences in support of the principles of folk treatment in different countries. Increase and maintenance of the prospective plant secondary metabolites would provide an enriched resource of drug molecules. Development of suitable derivatives of the therapeutic compounds can give an assurance for getting more effective drug candidates with reduced side effects. The review also enumerates the application of advanced nanotechnology, toxicology, and clinical-trial reports on the plant with notes on the shortcomings in the present research and future perspectives of using this medicinal plant.

Effects of propolis and its bioactive components on breast cancer cell pathways and the molecular mechanisms involved

BACKGROUND

Breast cancer is a female malignancy that is a significant cause of mortality worldwide. Currently, investigations on natural ingredients as new candidates for chemopreventive agents and breast cancer chemotherapies are increasing. Propolis is a natural resinous material produced by honeybees that exhibit anticancer potential. Several studies have mentioned the major bioactive compounds of propolis, but their mechanism of action is not clearly understood.

OBJECTIVES

The purpose of this review is to collect and summarize the evidence related to the effectiveness of propolis and its bioactive contents as candidates for breast cancer therapy and analyze the molecular mechanisms involved in their therapeutic pathways.

METHODS

We reviewed 94 articles from journals and databases, extracted the results, and produced summaries and conclusions.

RESULTS

Propolis and its bioactive ingredients show cytotoxic, anti-proliferative, pro-autophagic, anti-metastatic, and antioxidant activities, as well as synergistic effects with chemotherapy or radiotherapy in breast cancer. Its therapeutic activity involves various target molecules, including NF-κβ, Fas receptors, p53, TLR4, ANXA7, and voltage-gated Na+ channel (VGSC).

CONCLUSION

The bioactive components of propolis and the target molecules involved need to be explored further to develop new breast cancer therapies and overcome the problem of chemoradiation resistance.

Potential of Colocasia leaves in human nutrition: Review on nutritional and phytochemical properties

Colocasia esculenta leaves possess vital nutritive and nonnutritive components in significant amounts, but are underutilized, and lesser explored. The chemical composition varies significantly depending upon climatic conditions and other agronomical factors of the location of cultivation and variety. Micronutrients, viz. iron (3.4-11.7 mg 100 g^-1 ), copper (0.29-0.8 mg 100 g^-1 ), magnesium (170-752 mg 100 g^-1 ), potassium (0.4-2.4 g 100 g^-1 ), and zinc (0.6-4.2 mg 100 g^-1 ) are present in high amounts. The ratio of sodium to potassium (1:40) in the leaves add specifically to the antihypertensive properties. Preclinical and clinical studies provide evidence of its antidiabetic, antihemorrhagic, neuropharmacological properties, and as a remedy for stomach and liver ailments. Assessment of phytochemical compounds like chlorogenic acid, anthraquinones, cinnamic acid derivatives, and other phenolics validates these biological properties. The major limiting factor of this plant is oxalate that can be suppressed through food processing strategies. Colocasia leaves are promising green leafy vegetables with nutritional and clinical potential. PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS: Colocasia leaves have demonstrated the ability of antidiabetic, antihypertensive, immunoprotective, neuroprotective, and anticarcinogenic activities. The detailed assessment of phytochemical compounds present in various extracts of the leaves shows the presence of active chemical compounds like anthraquinones, apigenin, catechins, cinnamic acid derivatives, vitexin, and isovitexin which are possibly responsible for the exhibited biological properties. Colocasia leaves are rich sources of micronutrients; however, the presence of oxalates can prohibit proper utilization of these nutrients. Various food processing strategies like soaking, cooking, and so on can significantly reduce the antinutritional content and make these nutrients available for utilization. Documentation of traditional uses and food products from Colocasia leaves show that these leaves have immense potential in the functional food product as well as drug development.

Cardiovascular Benefits of Phenol-Enriched Virgin Olive Oils: New Insights from the Virgin Olive Oil and HDL Functionality (VOHF) Study

SCOPE

The main findings of the "Virgin Olive Oil and HDL Functionality" (VOHF) study and other related studies on the effect of phenol-enriched virgin olive oil (VOO) supplementation on cardiovascular disease are integrated in the present work.

METHODS AND RESULTS

VOHF assessed whether VOOs, enriched with their own phenolic compounds (FVOO) or with those from thyme (FVOOT), improve quantity and functionality of HDL. In this randomized, double-blind, crossover, and controlled trial, 33 hypercholesterolemic subjects received a control VOO (80 mg kg-1 ), FVOO (500 mg kg-1 ), and FVOOT (500 mg kg-1 ; 1:1) for 3 weeks. Both functional VOOs promoted cardioprotective changes, modulating HDL proteome, increasing fat-soluble antioxidants, improving HDL subclasses distribution, reducing the lipoprotein insulin resistance index, increasing endogenous antioxidant enzymes, protecting DNA from oxidation, ameliorating endothelial function, and increasing fecal microbial metabolic activity. Additional cardioprotective benefits were observed according to phenol source and content in the phenol-enriched VOOs. These insights support the beneficial effects of OO and PC from different sources.

CONCLUSION

Novel therapeutic strategies should increase HDL-cholesterol levels and enhance HDL functionality. The tailoring of phenol-enriched VOOs is an interesting and useful strategy for enhancing the functional quality of HDL, and thus, it can be used as a complementary tool for the management of hypercholesterolemic individuals.

Impact of dietary supplementation with olive and thyme phenols on alpha-tocopherol concentration in the muscle and liver of adult Wistar rats

A preliminary study to evaluate the effect of dietary supplementation with olive phenols (oleuropein, hydroxytyrosol and secoiridoids), thyme phenols and a combination of these (5 mg per kg rat weight per day) on the α-tocopherol concentrations in the muscle and liver of healthy adult Wistar rats over 21 days was conducted. In addition, the excretion of α-tocopherol through the faeces was examined. The results demonstrated that the diet supplemented with some phenolic compounds of olive and thyme increased α-tocopherol (P < 0.05) in the liver of female rats, although the α-tocopherol content in the diet of all groups was identical. In addition, a synergic effect between the olive phenols and thyme was observed. Therefore, our study indicates a protective effect of olive and thyme phenols supplemented in the diet on α-tocopherol, resulting in a higher concentration of endogenous α-tocopherol in the rat liver.

Barleria cristata: perspective towards phytopharmacological aspects

OBJECTIVES

Barleria cristata (Family: Acanthaceae), commonly known as Philippine violet, is used in different ethnomedical systems for the treatment of a wide range of ailments. This review aimed to provide a scientific overview of B. cristata with reference to its ethnobotanical aspects, geographical distribution, medicinal uses, phytochemistry and pharmacological activity, and critical analyses research gaps and future research opportunities for investigations on this plant.

KEY FINDINGS

Ethnomedical uses of the plant have been observed in lungs disorders, inflammatory conditions, toothache, anaemia, snake bite, diabetes and tuberculosis. The exhaustive bibliographic research carried out on this plant revealed that the plant parts are rich in various phytochemical constituents including triterpenes, phenolic compounds, glycosides and flavonoids type phenolic compounds. Furthermore, the plant was also investigated in terms of its anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, antidiabetic, antifungal, hepatoprotective and antioxidant activity.

CONCLUSIONS

This review confirms that B. cristata is a potential herb for the treatment of a wide range of diseases especially lung disorders and inflammatory conditions. Modern pharmacological studies have also validated many ethnobotanical uses of B. cristata, though data regarding many aspects of this plant such as mechanism of action, adverse effects of extracts and active compounds are still limited which call for additional studies.

Differential targeting of membrane lipid domains by caffeic acid and its ester derivatives

Phenolic acids have been associated to a wide range of important health benefits underlain by a common molecular mechanism of action. Considering that significant membrane permeation is prevented by their hydrophilic character, we hypothesize that their main effects result from the interplay with cell membrane surface. This hypothesis was tested using the paradigmatic caffeic acid (CA) and two of its ester derivatives, rosmarinic (RA) and chlorogenic (CGA) acids, for which we predict, based on molecular dynamics simulations, a shallow location in phospholipid bilayers dependent on the protonation-state. Using complementary experimental approaches, an interaction with the membrane was definitely revealed for the three compounds, with RA exhibiting the highest lipid bilayer partition, and the redox signals of membrane-bound RA and CA being clearly detected. Cholesterol decreased the compounds bilayer partition, but not their ability to lower membrane dipole potential. In more complex membrane models containing also sphingomyelin, with liquid disordered (ld)/ liquid ordered (lo) phases coexistence, mimicking domains in the external leaflet of human plasma membrane, all compounds were able to affect nanodomains lateral organization. RA, and to a lesser extent CGA, decreased the size of lo domains. The most significant effect of CA was the possible formation of a rigid gel-like phase, enriched in sphingomyelin. In addition, all phenolic acids decreased the order of lo domains. In sum, phenolic acid effects on the membrane are enhanced in cholesterol-rich lo phases, which predominate in the outer leaflet of human cell membranes and are involved in many key cellular processes.

Health-related effects and improving extractability of cereal arabinoxylans

Arabinoxylans (AXs) are major dietary fibers. They are composed of backbone chains of β-(1-4)-linked xylose residues to which α-l-arabinose are linked in the second and/or third carbon positions. Recently, AXs have attracted a great deal of attention because of their biological activities such as their immunomodulatory potential. Extraction of AXs has some difficulties; therefore, various methods have been used to increase the extractability of AXs with varying degrees of success, such as alkaline, enzymatic, mechanical extraction. However, some of these treatments have been reported to be either expensive, such as enzymatic treatments, or produce hazardous wastes and are non-environmentally friendly, such as alkaline treatments. On the other hand, mechanical assisted extraction, especially extrusion cooking, is an innovative pre-treatment that has been used to increase the solubility of AXs. The aim of the current review article is to point out the health-related effects and to discuss the current research on the extraction methods of AXs.

Environmental plasticity of Pinot noir grapevine leaves: A trans-European study of morphological and biochemical changes along a 1,500-km latitudinal climatic gradient

A 2-year study explored metabolic and phenotypic plasticity of sun-acclimated Vitis vinifera cv. Pinot noir leaves collected from 12 locations across a 36.69-49.98°N latitudinal gradient. Leaf morphological and biochemical parameters were analysed in the context of meteorological parameters and the latitudinal gradient. We found that leaf fresh weight and area were negatively correlated with both global and ultraviolet (UV) radiation, cumulated global radiation being a stronger correlator. Cumulative UV radiation (sumUVR) was the strongest correlator with most leaf metabolites and pigments. Leaf UV-absorbing pigments, total antioxidant capacities, and phenolic compounds increased with increasing sumUVR, whereas total carotenoids and xanthophylls decreased. Despite of this reallocation of metabolic resources from carotenoids to phenolics, an increase in xanthophyll-cycle pigments (the sum of the amounts of three xanthophylls: violaxanthin, antheraxanthin, and zeaxanthin) with increasing sumUVR indicates active, dynamic protection for the photosynthetic apparatus. In addition, increased amounts of flavonoids (quercetin glycosides) and constitutive β-carotene and α-tocopherol pools provide antioxidant protection against reactive oxygen species. However, rather than a continuum of plant acclimation responses, principal component analysis indicates clusters of metabolic states across the explored 1,500-km-long latitudinal gradient. This study emphasizes the physiological component of plant responses to latitudinal gradients and reveals the physiological plasticity that may act to complement genetic adaptations.

An Integrated View of the Effects of Wine Polyphenols and Their Relevant Metabolites on Gut and Host Health

Over the last few decades, polyphenols, and flavonoids in particular, have attracted the interest of researchers, as they have been associated with the health-promoting effects derived from diets rich in vegetables and fruits, including moderate wine consumption. Recent scientific evidence suggests that wine polyphenols exert their effects through interactions with the gut microbiota, as they seem to modulate microbiota and, at the same time, are metabolized by intestinal bacteria into specific bioavailable metabolites. Microbial metabolites are better absorbed than their precursors and may be responsible for positive health activities in the digestive system (local effects) and, after being absorbed, in tissues and organs (systemic effects). Differences in gut microbiota composition and functionality among individuals can affect polyphenol activity and, therefore, their health effects. The aim of this review is to integrate the understanding of the metabolism and mechanisms of action of wine polyphenols at both local and systemic levels, underlining their impact on the gut microbiome and the inter-individual variability associated with polyphenols' metabolism and further physiological effects. The advent of promising dietary approaches linked to wine polyphenols beyond the gut microbiota community and metabolism are also discussed.

Delineation of attenuation of oxidative stress and mutagenic stress by Murraya exotica L. leaves

BACKGROUND

Murraya exotica L., a member of family Rutaceae is rich in biologically active secondary metabolites and also known for its ethnobotanical importance. With this in mind, the plant was chosen and leaves were extracted sequentially to obtain ethanol, hexane, chloroform, ethyl acetate, n-butanol and aqueous fractions. The extract/fractions were evaluated for total phenolic and flavonoid content by spectrophotometric methods. The UHPLC technique was employed for profiling the different polyphenolic compounds present in the extract/fractions. Furthermore, the extract/fractions were analysed for the antioxidant and antimutagenic activities using different in vitro assays.

RESULTS

It was observed that, among the different extract/fractions, ethyl acetate fraction exhibited maximum total phenolic content i.e. 119.6 mg of GAE/g whereas chloroform fraction showed maximum total flavonoid content i.e. 323.5 mg of RE/g. Likewise, UHPLC method also showed maximum number as well as amount of polyphenolic compounds in ethyl acetate fraction. It was further analyzed that the same fraction exhibited the maximum radical scavenging activity in all antioxidant assays. In Ames assay, ethyl acetate fraction again showed maximum antimutagenic activity of 97.70 % against the 2-aminofluorene mutagen in TA100 tester strain of Salmonella typhimurium.

CONCLUSION

Overall, among all the extract/fractions, ethyl acetate fraction was observed to be highly effective in scavenging the free radical as well as reducing the mutagenic effect of the mutagen. The maximum bioactivities of the ethyl acetate fraction may be linked to the presence of high number of polyphenolic compounds as shown by spectrophotometric as well as UHPLC methods.

The Relationship of Oxidation Sensitivity of Red Blood Cells and Carbonic Anhydrase Activity in Stored Human Blood: Effect of Certain Phenolic Compounds

It has been reported that many modifications occur with the increase of oxidative stress during storage in erythrocytes. In order to delay these negative changes, we evaluated whether the addition of substances likely to protect antioxidant capacity in stored blood would be useful. Therefore, we investigated the effects of resveratrol, tannic acid, and caffeic acid in lipid peroxidation and antioxidant capacity of erythrocytes in stored blood. Donated blood was taken into four CPD containing blood bags. One bag was used as the control, and the others were supplemented with caffeic acid (30 μg/mL), resveratrol (30 μg/mL), and tannic acid (15 μg/mL), respectively. Erythrocyte lipid peroxidation, sensitivity to oxidation, glutathione levels and carbonic anhydrase, glutathione peroxidase, and catalase activities were measured on days 0, 7, 14, 21, and 28. In the control group, erythrocyte malondialdehyde levels and sensitivity to oxidation were increased whereas glutathione, glutathione peroxidase, and catalase levels were decreased (p < 0.05). Resveratrol and caffeic acid prevented malondialdehyde accumulation and preserved glutathione, glutathione peroxidase, and catalase activities in erythrocytes. We demonstrated that resveratrol, caffeic acid, and tannic acid in stored blood could decrease the sensitivity to oxidation of erythrocytes in vitro but did not exhibit such effects on CA activity.

Selenium and vitamin E for prostate cancer--justifications for the SELECT study

There are several studies that relate oxidative damage as possible mechanism for many cancers. Many studies have also shown that anti-oxidants like selenium and vitamin E decrease the risk for prostate cancer. The main objective of the Selenium and Vitamin E Cancer Prevention Trial (SELECT) study was to look for the benefits of selenium and vitamin E supplementation on prostate cancer. The study had a large sample size, stringent experimental conditions, very long duration, standardized laboratories for biochemical analyses and other factors that contribute to high external validity. The SELECT study failed to show any significant risk reduction for prostate cancers ascribable to selenium and vitamin E supplementations. Because of these conflicting results, many researchers argue about the methods used, supplementations administered (selenium and vitamin E) and indicators used for assessing levels of supplementations. We reviewed many epidemiological studies, clinical trials, and pre-clinical studies. With corroborative evidences we justify that SELECT study has a sound methodology and rationale. In lieu of the contrary results of the select study, researchers should focus on the probable mechanisms for these contrary findings and continue their search for newer and effective agents for prevention of prostate cancer.

Modulation of Tamoxifen Cytotoxicity by Caffeic Acid Phenethyl Ester in MCF-7 Breast Cancer Cells

Although Tamoxifen (TAM) is one of the most widely used drugs in managing breast cancer, many women still relapse after long-term therapy. Caffeic acid phenethyl ester (CAPE) is a polyphenolic compound present in many medicinal plants and in propolis. The present study examined the effect of CAPE on TAM cytotoxicity in MCF-7 cells. MCF-7 cells were treated with different concentrations of TAM and/or CAPE for 48 h. This novel combination exerted synergistic cytotoxic effects against MCF-7 cells via induction of apoptotic machinery with activation of caspases and DNA fragmentation, along with downregulation of Bcl-2 and Beclin 1 expression levels. However, the mammalian microtubule-associated protein light chain LC 3-II level was unchanged. Vascular endothelial growth factor level was also decreased, whereas levels of glutathione and nitric oxide were increased. In conclusion, CAPE augmented TAM cytotoxicity via multiple mechanisms, providing a novel therapeutic approach for breast cancer treatment that can overcome resistance and lower toxicity. This effect provides a rationale for further investigation of this combination.

A shortcut to wide-ranging biological actions of dietary polyphenols: modulation of the nitrate-nitrite-nitric oxide pathway in the gut

Dietary polyphenols are complex, natural compounds with recognized health benefits. Initially attractive to the biomedical area due to their in vitro antioxidant properties, the biological implications of polyphenols are now known to be far from their acute ability to scavenge free radicals but rather to modulate redox signaling pathways. Actually, it is now recognized that dietary polyphenols are extensively metabolized in vivo and that the chemical, biophysical and biological properties of their metabolites are, in most cases, quite different from the ones of the parent molecules. Hence, the study of the metabolic, absorptive and signaling pathways of both phenolics and derivatives has become a major issue. In this paper we propose a short-cut for the systemic effects of polyphenols in connection with nitric oxide (˙NO) biology. This free radical is a ubiquitous signaling molecule with pivotal functions in vivo. It is produced through an enzymatic pathway and also through the reduction of dietary nitrate and nitrite in the human stomach. At acidic gastric pH, dietary polyphenols, in the form they are conveyed in foods and at high concentration, not only promote nitrite reduction to ˙NO but also embark in a complex network of chemical reactions to produce higher nitrogen oxides with signaling functions, namely by inducing post-translational modifications. Modified endogenous molecules, such as nitrated proteins and lipids, acquire important physiological functions. Thus, local and systemic effects of ˙NO such as modulation of vascular tone, mucus production in the gut and protection against ischemia-reperfusion injury are, in this sense, triggered by dietary polyphenols. Evidence to support the signaling and biological effects of polyphenols by modulation of the nitrate-nitrite-NO pathway will be herein provided and discussed. General actions of polyphenols encompassing absorption and metabolism in the intestine/liver are short-cut via the production of diffusible species in the stomach that have not only a local but also a general impact.

Caffeic acid phenethyl ester and therapeutic potentials

Caffeic acid phenethyl ester (CAPE) is a bioactive compound of propolis extract. The literature search elaborates that CAPE possesses antimicrobial, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and cytotoxic properties. The principal objective of this review article is to sum up and critically assess the existing data about therapeutic effects of CAPE in different disorders. The findings elaborate that CAPE is a versatile therapeutically active polyphenol and an effective adjuvant of chemotherapy for enhancing therapeutic efficacy and diminishing chemotherapy-induced toxicities.

Caffeic acid phenethyl ester prevents apoptotic cell death in the developing rat brain after pentylenetetrazole-induced status epilepticus

Population-based studies suggest that seizure incidence is highest during the first year of life, and early-life seizures frequently result in the development of epilepsy and behavioral alterations later in life. The early-life insults like status epilepticus often lead to epileptogenesis, a process in which initial brain injury triggers cascades of molecular, cellular, and network changes and eventually spontaneous seizures. Caffeic acid phenethyl ester is an active component of propolis obtained from honeybees and has neuroprotective properties. The aim of this study was to investigate whether caffeic acid phenethyl ester exerts neuroprotective effects on the developing rat brain after status epilepticus. Twenty-one dams reared Wistar male rats, and 21-day-old rats were divided into three groups: control group, pentylenetetrazole-induced status epilepticus group, and caffeic acid phenethyl ester-treated group. Status epilepticus was induced on the first day of experiment. Caffeic acid phenethyl ester injections (30 mg/kg intraperitoneally) started 40 min after the tonic phase of status epilepticus was reached, and the injections of caffeic acid phenethyl ester were repeated over 5 days. Rats were sacrificed, and brain tissues were collected on the 5th day of experiment after the last injection of caffeic acid phenethyl ester. Apoptotic cell death was evaluated. Histopathological examination showed that caffeic acid phenethyl ester significantly preserved the number of neurons in the CA1, CA3, and dentate gyrus regions of the hippocampus and the prefrontal cortex. It also diminished apoptosis in the hippocampus and the prefrontal cortex. In conclusion, this experimental study suggests that caffeic acid phenethyl ester administration may be neuroprotective in status epilepticus in the developing rat brain.

Caffeic acid protects tissue antioxidants and DNA content in methamphetamine induced tissue toxicity in Sprague Dawley rats

Caffeic acid (CA) (3,4-dihydroxycinnamic acid) is among the major hydroxycinnamic acids. Hydroxycinnamic acid is the major subgroup of phenolic compounds. Methamphetamine (METH) is a potent addictive psychostimulant. Chronic use and acute METH intoxication can cause substantial medical consequences, including spleen, kidney, liver and heart. The objective of the present study was to evaluate the antioxidant activity of CA to protect against oxidative stress and DNA damage to various organs in METH toxicity. Thirty-two male Sprague Dawley (SD) rats were divided into four equal groups: group 1 was injected (i.p) with saline (1 mL/kg) while groups 2,3 and 4 were injected (i.p) with METH (10 mg/kg) twice a day over five days period. Where 100 & 200 mg/kg of CA were injected (i.p) into groups 3 and 4, respectively one day before exposure to METH injections. Tissue antioxidants and DNA content were evaluated in different tissues. METH decreased glutathione (GSH) and glutathione peroxidase (GPx) levels while increased malondialdehyde (MDA), catalase (CAT) and protein carbonyl levels in brain (hypothalamus), liver, and kidney tissues of rats. METH increased hyperdiploidy in these tissues and DNA damage results. Prior treatment of CA to animals exposed to METH restores the above parameters to the normal levels and preserves the DNA content of these tissues. These results were supported by histopathological investigations. In conclusion, METH induced oxidative stress and DNA damage and pretreatment of CA before METH injections prevented tissue oxidative stress and DNA damage in METH-treated animals.

Caffeic acid phenethyl ester alleviates mesenteric ischemia/reperfusion injury

PURPOSE

We aimed to investigate the effects of caffeic acid phenethyl ester (CAPE) on intestinal mucosal injury induced by superior mesenteric occlusion.

METHODS

This experimental study was conducted on 48 male Wistar-albino rats. The animals were randomly allocated into four groups: (i) Sham-operated group, laparotomy without intestinal ischemia/reperfusion (IR) injury (n = 12); (ii) Sham + CAPE group, identical to group 1 except for CAPE treatment (10 μmol/kg, intravenously) (n = 12); (iii) Intestinal IR group, 60 min of superior mesenteric ischemia followed by 3 hr of reperfusion (n = 12); and (iv) (IR + CAPE)-treated group, 10 μmol/kg injection of CAPE intravenously 30 min before the reperfusion period (n = 12). We evaluated the degree of intestinal mucosal injury on a grading scale, histopathologically, and by measuring oxidative stress markers and antioxidant parameters, biochemically. Intestinal edema was estimated by using wet/dry weight ratios. The plasma proinflammatory cytokine levels were measured. Animal survival was observed up to one week.

RESULTS

Intestinal mucosal injury scores were significantly decreased with CAPE administration (p < .05). CAPE treatment significantly reduced oxidative stress markers in the intestinal tissues (p < .05) and the plasma proinflammatory cytokine levels (p < .05), and significantly increased antioxidant parameters in the intestinal tissues (p < .05). Intestinal edema was significantly alleviated by CAPE treatment (p < .05). The survival rates of CAPE-treated IR animals were significantly higher than IR-subjected rats (p < .05).

CONCLUSION

This study clearly showed that CAPE treatment significantly alleviated the intestinal mucosal injury caused by superior mesenteric ischemia/reperfusion. Further clinical studies are required to clarify whether CAPE has a useful role in reperfusion injury during particular surgeries in which IR-induced organ injury occurs.

Comparative analysis of the protective effects of caffeic acid phenethyl ester (CAPE) on pulmonary contusion lung oxidative stress and serum copper and zinc levels in experimental rat model

The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of caffeic acid phenethyl ester (CAPE) in the lungs by biochemical and histopathological analyses in an experimental isolated lung contusion model. Eighty-one male Sprague-Dawley rats were used. The animals were divided randomly into four groups: group 1 (n = 9) was defined as without contusion and without CAPE injection. Group 2 (n = 9) was defined as CAPE 10 μmol/kg injection without lung contusion. Group 3 (n = 36) was defined as contusion without CAPE-administrated group which consisted of four subgroups that were created according to analysis between days 0, 1, 2, and 3. Group 4 (n = 27) was defined as CAPE 10 μmol/kg administrated after contusion group divided into three subgroups according to analysis on days 1, 2, and 3. CAPE 10 μmol/kg was injected intraperitoneally 30 min after trauma and on days 1 and 2. Blood samples were obtained to measure catalase (CAT) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) activities and level of malondialdehyde (MDA) and for blood gas analysis. Trace elements such as zinc and copper were measured in serum. The lung tissue was also removed for histopathological examination. Isolated lung contusion increased serum and tissue SOD and CAT activities and MDA levels (p < 0.05). Both serum and tissue SOD, MDA, and CAT levels on day 3 were lower in group 4 compared to group 3 (p < 0.05). Further, the levels of SOD, MDA, and CAT in group 4 were similar compared to group 1 (p > 0.05). CAPE also had a significant beneficial effect on blood gases (p < 0.05). Both serum zinc and copper levels were (p < 0.05) influenced by the administration of CAPE. Histopathological examination revealed lower scores in group 4 compared to group 3 (p < 0.05) and no significant differences compared to group 1 (p > 0.05). CAPE appears to be effective in protecting against severe oxidative stress and tissue damage caused by pulmonary contusion in an experimental setting. Therefore, we conclude that administration of CAPE may be used for a variety of conditions associated with pulmonary contusion. Clinical use of CAPE may have the advantage of prevention of pulmonary contusion.

Biosynthesis, natural sources, dietary intake, pharmacokinetic properties, and biological activities of hydroxycinnamic acids

Hydroxycinnamic acids are the most widely distributed phenolic acids in plants. Broadly speaking, they can be defined as compounds derived from cinnamic acid. They are present at high concentrations in many food products, including fruits, vegetables, tea, cocoa, and wine. A diet rich in hydroxycinnamic acids is thought to be associated with beneficial health effects such as a reduced risk of cardiovascular disease. The impact of hydroxycinnamic acids on health depends on their intake and pharmacokinetic properties. This review discusses their chemistry, biosynthesis, natural sources, dietary intake, and pharmacokinetic properties.

Beneficial effect of caffeic Acid on alcohol-induced alterations in lipid peroxidation and antioxidant defense in rats

ABSTRACT We studied the effect of caffeic acid on alcohol-induced oxidative stress in alcohol-induced toxicity in rats. The elevation in the levels of lipid peroxidation in alcohol administration was accompanied by a significant decrease in the levels of vitamins C and E, superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), reduced glutathione (GSH), and glutathione S-transferase (GST) in the liver and kidney. Oral administration of caffeic acid at a dose of 12 mg/kg/body weight for 45 days significantly reduced the severe oxidative stress in alcohol toxicity as evidenced by the decrease in the levels of lipid peroxidation with a simultaneous increase in the level of enzymic and nonenzymic antioxidants in liver and kidney. Histological studies in the liver and kidney also showed that administration of caffeic acid to alcohol-treated rats resulted in a marked reduction in alcohol-induced pathological changes. These results suggest that administration of caffeic acid to alcohol-supplemented rats alleviates the alcohol-induced oxidative damage in the liver and kidney.

Antioxidant and Antiproliferative Activities of Crossostephium chinensis (L.) Makino

Crossostephium chinensis (L.) (CC) Makino is a common traditional Chinese medicinal plant used to dehumidify and cure rheumatism and arthralgia. The water and methanol extracts of C. chinensis (CCW and CCM) were evaluated for their antioxidant and antiproliferative activities. The antioxidant activities of CC were evaluated by using ABTS radical scavenging, DPPH radical scavenging, nitric oxide scavenging and superoxide scavenging methods. Iron chelating activity, lipid peroxidation, total polyphenol contents, total flavonoid contents and total flavonol contents were also detected. In all the tested models, both CCW and CCM showed their ability to scavenge the free radicals in a does-dependent manner. CCW had higher antioxidant and antiproliferative activities than CCM. In LC-MS-MS analysis, the chromatograms of CCW with good antioxidant activities were established. Rutin might be an important bioactive compound in CCW. The antiproliferative activities of CCW and CCM were also studied in vitro by using human hepatoma HepG2 cells. CCW exhibited good antiproliferative activity. These results indicated that CCW might be used as a potential source of natural antioxidants and as an anti-tumor agent.

Caffeic acid phenethyl ester (CAPE), derived from a honeybee product propolis, exhibits a diversity of anti-tumor effects in pre-clinical models of human breast cancer

Breast cancer (BC) patients use alternative and natural remedies more than patients with other malignancies. Specifically, 63-83% use at least one type of alternative medicine and 25-63% use herbals and vitamins. Propolis is a naturopathic honeybee product, and CAPE (caffeic acid phenethyl ester), is a major medicinal component of propolis. CAPE, in a concentration dependent fashion, inhibits MCF-7 (hormone receptor positive, HR+) and MDA-231 (a model of triple negative BC (TNBC) tumor growth, both in vitro and in vivo without much effect on normal mammary cells and strongly influences gene and protein expression. It induces cell cycle arrest, apoptosis and reduces expression of growth and transcription factors, including NF-κB. Notably, CAPE down-regulates mdr-1 gene, considered responsible for the resistance of cancer cells to chemotherapeutic agents. Further, CAPE dose-dependently suppresses VEGF formation by MDA-231 cells and formation of capillary-like tubes by endothelial cells, implicating inhibitory effects on angiogenesis. In conclusion, our results strongly suggest that CAPE inhibits MDA-231 and MCF-7 human breast cancer growth via its apoptotic effects, and modulation of NF-κB, the cell cycle, and angiogenesis.

Caffeic acid phenethyl ester reduces spinal cord injury-evoked locomotor dysfunction

Caffeic acid phenethyl ester (CAPE) is a component of propolis, which is a substance taken from the hives of honeybees, and is known to exhibit an anti-inflammatory activity. Such activity has been thought to be partly based on its potential and specific inhibitory activities toward nuclear factor-κB, a transcription factor. Therefore, in the present study, we evaluated the effect of CAPE on functional locomotor recovery after spinal cord injury (SCI) caused by hemi-transection, because inflammatory responses are a major cause of the secondary injury observed following SCI and play a pivotal role in regulating the pathogenesis of acute and chronic SCI. When CAPE was i.p.-administered at a dosage of 10 µmol/kg, it enhanced the recovery of locomotor function and reduced the lesion size while suppressing the expression of the mRNAs for a pro-inflammatory cytokine interleukin-1β and the inflammatory enzymes, inducible nitric oxide synthase and cyclooxygenase-2. These results suggest CAPE to be a promising therapeutic tool for reducing the secondary neuronal damage following primary physical injury to the spinal cord.

Structure-activity relationships of polyphenols to prevent lipid oxidation in pelagic fish muscle

The influence of polymerization (number of monomers) and galloylation (content of esterified gallates) of oligomeric catechins (proanthocyanidins) on their effectiveness to prevent lipid oxidation in pelagic fish muscle was evaluated. Non-galloylated oligomers of catechin with diverse mean polymerization (1.9-3.4 monomeric units) were extracted from pine (Pinus pinaster) bark. Homologous fractions with galloylation ranging from 0.25 to <1 gallate group per molecule were obtained from grape (Vitis vinifera) and witch hazel (Hamamelis virginiana). The results showed the convenience of proanthocyanidins with medium size (2-3 monomeric units) and low galloylation degree (0.15-0.25 gallate group/molecule) to inhibit lipid oxidation in pelagic fish muscle. These optimal structural characteristics of proanthocyanidins were similar to those lately reported in fish oil-in-water emulsions using phosphatidylcholine as emulsifier. This finding suggests that the antioxidant behavior of polyphenols in muscle-based foods can be mimicked in emulsions prepared with phospholipids as emulsifier agents. The present data give relevant information to achieve an optimum use of polyphenols in pelagic fish muscle.

Neuroprotective effect of Centella asiatica extract (CAE) on experimentally induced parkinsonism in aged Sprague-Dawley rats

Reactive oxygen species (ROS) play an important role in ageing and age-related neurodegenerative changes including Parkinson's disease (PD). PD is characterized by signs of major oxidative stress and mitochondrial damage in the pars compacta of the substantia nigra. Present study was designed to investigate whether the Centella asiatica extract (CAE) would prevent 1-methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine (MPTP)-induced neurotoxicity in aged Sprague-Dawley rats. Adult, male Sprague-dawley rats of 300-350 g were divided into control, C. asiatica alone, MPTP alone (20 mg/kg, for 21 days) and MPTP with C. asiatica (300 mg/kg for 21 days) groups. Effect of aqueous extract of C. asiatica on oxidative biomarker levels in corpus striatum and hippocampus homogenate was examined. MPTP-challenged rats elicited a significant increase in lipid hydroperoxides (LPO) (p < 0.01), protein-carbonyl-content (PCC) (p < 0.01) and xanthine oxidase (XO) (p < 0.01) when compared with control rats. There was a significant decrease in total antioxidants (TA) (p < 0.001), superoxide dismutase (SOD) (p < 0.001), glutathione peroxidase (GPx) (p < 0.01) and catalase (CAT) (p < 0.001) levels with MPTP treatment. Supplementation of CAE reduced LPO and PCC and significantly increased (p < 0.01) TA and antioxidant enzyme levels (p < 0.01) in corpus striatum and hippocampus. These results show that administration of C. asiatica was effective in protecting the brain against neurodegenerative disorders such as Parkinsonism.

Caffeic acid phenethyl ester, a component of beehive propolis, is a novel selective estrogen receptor modulator

Caffeic acid phenethyl ester (CAPE) is an active ingredient of beehive propolis with a structure similar to phenolic acid. The estrogenic effects of propolis were previously demonstrated through the activation of an estrogen receptor. To identify the estrogenic properties of propolis, CAPE was evaluated using in vitro and in vivo methods. CAPE showed selective binding affinity to human estrogen receptor beta (hERbeta) rather than hERalpha. CAPE also reduced ERalpha expression in MCF-7 and MDA 231 cells. In the yeast estrogen receptor transcription assay, CAPE produced the transcriptional activity of estrogen-responsive element with EC(50) values of 3.72 x 10(-6) M. CAPE did not increase the growth of MCF-7 estrogen receptor-positive breast cancer cells in doses ranging from 10(-7) to 10(-5) M. In order to understand how CAPE acts in animals, CAPE was tested by a uterotrophic bioassay. Treatment with CAPE (100, 500 mg/kg) did not increase the uterine weight relative to 3 microg/kg 17beta-estradiol treatment. The results indicate that CAPE, which is a selective agonist to hERbeta, but does not show any estrogenic effect on estrogen receptor-positive breast cancer cells and in immature rat uterine tissue, is a potential selective estrogen receptor modulator.