Characterization of phenolic compounds from normal ginger (Zingiber officinale Rosc.) and black ginger (Kaempferia parviflora Wall.) using UPLC–DAD–QToF–MS

Intra-peritoneal lavage of Zingiber officinale rhizome and its active constituent gingerol impede inflammation, angiogenesis, and fibrosis following post-operative peritoneal adhesion in male rats

Post-operative peritoneal adhesions (PA) are a common and important clinical problem. In this study, we focused on the ameliorative efficacy of ginger and gingerol compounds on surgical-induced peritoneal adhesion, and their strategies that disrupted the PA formation pathways to suppress their incidence. First, liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS) was established to separate and identify several chemical groups of ginger rhizome extract. In the next steps, male Wistar albino rats were randomly selected and divided into various groups, namely sham, control, ginger extract (0.6, 1.8, 5 %w/v), and gingerol (0.05, 0.1, 0.3, and 1 %w/v). Finally, we investigated the macroscopic parameters such as wound healing, body weight as well as spleen height and weight. In addition, visual peritoneal adhesion assessment was performed via Nair et al and Adhesion Scoring Scheme. Moreover, the microscopic parameters and biological assessment was performed via and immunoassays. The present findings revealed significant improvement in wound healing and reduction of the adhesion range, as Nair et al. and Adhesion Scoring Scheme scoring, in both the ginger and gingerol groups compared to the PA group (P < 0.05). Whereas, gingerol (0.3 % w/v) was able to increase the body weight in rats (P < 0.0001) at end stage of experiment. Also, inflammation, angiogenesis, and fibrosis were significantly decreased due to the downregulation of interleukin (IL)-6, tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, transforming growth factor (TGF)-β1, vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), respectively, in the ginger and gingerol groups compared to the PA group (P < 0.05). In contrast, the levels of IL-10 were increased in the ginger and gingerol groups compared to the control group (P < 0.01). Our results proved that ginger rhizome and gingerol, as novel therapeutic compounds, could be used to prevent PA for their beneficial anti-inflammatory as well as anti-fibrosis properties in clinical trials. However, further clinical studies are required to approve the effectiveness of ginger and gingerol.

An integrating strategy for systematic profiling of Chinese patent drug's chemicalome and associated metabolome: Huanghou antidiarrhea dropping pills as a case study

Huanghou antidiarrhea dropping pills (HADP) is an efficient Chinese patent drug that is clinically used to treat diarrhea. However, its functional materials remain unclear due to the characteristics of traditional Chinese medicine, which is a multi-component and multi-target complex system. In this study, we investigated the intrinsic chemical components and combined with in vivo metabolism to reveal the functional material basis of HADP. Spectral behavior (accurate molecular weight and secondary fragmentation) and chromatographic behavior (retention time) were key criterions that throughout the whole research of components identification, prototypes screening, and tissue distribution. Mass defect filter (MDF), characteristic product ion filter (PIF), and neutral loss filter (NLF) were other three criterions for metabolites searching. Consequently, a total of 102 components in HADP, including alkaloids, lignans, lactones, gingerols, and alkaloid complexes were identified or tentatively characterized. About 39 metabolites that related to 37 prototypes were calculated and matched in bio-samples. Among them, 14 prototypes and 18 metabolites were detected distribution in colon, liver, heart, spleen, lung or kidney. This study provides a systematic investigation into the metabolism of HADP and offers effective analytical strategies for the characterization of compounds and metabolites in Chinese patent drugs.

Hydroxylated Tetramethoxyflavone Affects Intestinal Cell Permeability and Inhibits Cytochrome P450 Enzymes

Tetramethoxyflavones (TMFs) found in the Citrus genus have garnered considerable interest from food scientists and the health food industry because of their promising biological properties. Nonetheless, there are currently limited data available regarding the effectiveness and bioavailability of "hydroxylated TMFs", which are flavones known for their potential in disease prevention through dietary means. This study aims to provide insights into the chemical and biological properties of hydroxylated TMF and evaluates its effects on intestinal cell permeability and cytochrome P450 (CYP) inhibition. Liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS) and microsomes analyze the TMFs and hydroxylated TMFs, elucidating cell penetration and metabolic inhibition potential. 3H7-TMF shows the fastest (1-h) transport efficiency in intestinal cells. The Caco-2 cell model exhibits significant transport and absorption efficiency. Dissolved hydroxyl-TMF with hydrophilicity possibly permeates the gut. 3H7-TMF has higher transport efficiency (46%) 3H6-TMF (39%). IC50 values of TMFs (78-TMF, 57-TMF, 3H7-TMF, 3H6-TMF) against CYP enzymes (CYP1A2, CYP2D6, CYP2C9, CYP2C19, CYP3A4) range from 0.15 to 108 μM, indicating potent inhibition. Hydroxyl groups enhance TMF hydrophilicity and membrane permeability. TMFs display varied inhibitory effects due to hydroxyl and methoxy hindrance. This study underscores the strong CYP inhibitory capabilities in these TMFs, implying potential food-drug interactions if used in medicines or supplements. These findings can also help with food nutrition improvement and pharma food developments through innovative approaches for Citrus waste valorization.

Iron Chelation Property, Antioxidant Activity, and Hepatoprotective Effect of 6-Gingerol-Rich Ginger (Zingiber officinale) Extract in Iron-Loaded Huh7 Cells

Iron is essential for numerous biological processes; however, an iron imbalance can contribute to a number of diseases. An excess of iron can accumulate in the body and subsequently induce the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS), leading to oxidative tissue damage and organ dysfunction. The liver, a major iron storage site, is vulnerable to this iron-induced oxidative damage; however, this issue can be overcome by the chelation of excess iron. This study aimed to investigate the effect of 6-gingerol-rich ginger (Zingiber officinale) extract on iron chelation, antioxidation, and hepatoprotective function in protecting against iron-induced oxidative liver cell injury. In experiments, 6-gingerol was confirmed to be a main bioactive component of the ginger extract and possessed free radical scavenging activity, decreasing ABTS•+ and DPPH• radical levels, and inhibiting AAPH-induced red blood cell hemolysis. Interestingly, the extract significantly reduced the levels of labile cellular iron (LCI), intracellular ROS, and lipid peroxidation products (TBARS) in iron-loaded human hepatoma (Huh7) cells. In conclusion, this work highlights the iron chelation property of 6-gingerol-rich ginger extract and its antioxidant activity, which could potentially protect the liver from iron-induced oxidative tissue damage.

Anti-Inflammatory Study and Phytochemical Characterization of Zingiber officinale Roscoe and Citrus limon L. Juices and Their Formulation

Zingiber officinale and Citrus limon, well known as ginger and lemon, are two vegetals widely used in traditional medicine and the culinary field. The juices of the two vegetals were evaluated based on their inflammation, both in vivo and in vitro. High-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) was used to characterize different juices from Zingiber officinale Roscoe and Citrus limon. After the application of the HPLC method, different compounds were identified, such as 6-gingerol and 6-gingediol from the ginger juice and isorhamnetin and hesperidin from the lemon juice. In addition, the two juices and their formulation were assessed for their anti-inflammatory activity, in vitro by utilizing the BSA denaturation test, in vivo using the carrageenan-induced inflammation test, and the vascular permeability test. Important and statistically significant anti-inflammatory activities were observed for all juices, especially the formulation. The results of our work showed clearly that the Zingiber officinale and Citrus limon juices protect in vivo the development of the rat paw edema, especially the formulation F composed of the Zingiber officinale and Citrus limon juices, which shows an anti-inflammatory activity equal to -35.95% and -44.05% using 10 and 20 mg/kg of the dose, respectively. Our work also showed that the formulation was the most effective tested extract since it inhibits the vascular permeability by -37% and -44% at the doses of 200 and 400 mg/kg, respectively, and in vitro via the inhibition of the denaturation of BSA by giving a synergetic effect with the highest IC50 equal to 684.61 ± 7.62 μg/mL corresponding to the formulation F. This work aims to develop nutraceutical preparations in the future and furnishes the support for a new investigation into the activities of the various compounds found in Zingiber officinale Roscoe and Citrus limon.

Widely Targeted Volatilomics and Metabolomics Analysis Reveal the Metabolic Composition and Diversity of Zingiberaceae Plants

Zingiberaceae plants are widely used in the food and pharmaceutical industries; however, research on the chemical composition and interspecific differences in the metabolome and volatilome of Zingiberaceae plants is still limited. In this study, seven species of Zingiberaceae plants were selected, including Curcuma longa L., Zingiber officinale Rosc., Alpinia officinarum Hance, Alpinia tonkinensis Gagnep, Amomum tsaoko Crevost et Lemarie, Alpinia hainanensis K. Schum. and Amomum villosum Lour. Myristica fragrans Houtt. was also selected due to its flavor being similar to that of the Zingiberaceae plant. The metabolome and volatilome of selected plants were profiled by widely targeted approaches; 542 volatiles and 738 non-volatile metabolites were detected, and β-myrcene, α-phellandrene and α-cadinene were detected in all the selected plants, while chamigren, thymol, perilla, acetocinnamone and cis-α-bisabolene were exclusively detected in certain Zingiberaceae plants. Differential analysis showed that some terpenoids, such as cadalene, cadalene-1,3,5-triene, cadalene-1,3,8-triene and (E)-β-farnesene, and some lipids, including palmitic acid, linoleic acid and oleic acid were amongst the most varied compounds in Zingiberaceae plants. In conclusion, this study provided comprehensive metabolome and volatilome profiles for Zingiberaceae plants and revealed the metabolic differences between these plants. The results of this study could be used as a guide for the nutrition and flavor improvement of Zingiberaceae plants.

Cytotoxic Activity, Anti-Migration and In Silico Study of Black Ginger (Kaempferia parviflora) Extract against Breast Cancer Cell

Metastatic breast cancer remains the leading cause of death in women worldwide. This condition necessitates extensive research to find an effective treatment, one of which is the natural medicine approach. Kaempferia parviflora (KP) is a plant believed to possess anticancer properties. Therefore, this study aims to determine KP's bioactive compound, cytotoxic, and anti-migration activity in the highly metastatic breast cancer cell line model 4T1, also in the breast cancer cell model MCF-7 and noncancerous cell line NIH-3T3. Maceration with ethanol (EEKP) and infusion with distilled water (EWKP) was used for extraction. The MTT assay was used to test for cytotoxicity, and the scratch wound healing assay was used to test for the inhibition of migration. Phytochemical profiling of EEKP was performed using UHPLC-MS, and the results were studied for in silico molecular docking. Result showed that EEKP had a better cytotoxic activity than EWKP with an IC₅₀ value of 128.33 µg/mL (24 h) and 115.09 µg/mL (48 h) on 4T1 cell line, and 138.43 µg/mL (24 h) and 124.81 µg/mL (48 h) on MCF-7 cell line. Meanwhile, no cytotoxic activity was observed at concentrations ranging from 3-250 µg/mL in NIH-3T3. EEKP also showed anti-migration activity in a concentration of 65 µg/mL. Mass Spectrophotometer (MS) structures from EEKP are 5-Hydroxy-7,4'-dimethoxyflavanone (HDMF), 5-Hydro-7,8,2'-trimethoxyflavanone (HTMF), Retusine, and Denbinobin. The in silico docking was investigated for receptors Bcl-2, Bcl-XL, ERK2, and FAK, as well as their activities. In silico result indicates that HTMF and denbinobin are bioactive compounds responsible for EEKP's cytotoxic and anti-migration activity. These two compounds and standardized plant extract can be further studied as potential breast cancer treatment candidates.

Characterization of Lemon Pepper and Black Ginger Extracts and Macroemulsions as Natural Pain Relievers for Spice Stick Balsam Formulation

Lemon pepper or andaliman (Zanthoxylum acanthopodium) and black ginger (Kaempferia parviflora) are rich in bioactive compounds that possess antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities. Our recent study demonstrated that andaliman ethanolic extract also exerted anti-arthritic and anti-inflammatory effects in arthritic mice in vivo. Therefore, natural anti-inflammatory and anti-arthritic compounds for alternative natural pain relievers in balsam formulation are needed. This study aimed to produce and characterize lemon pepper and black ginger extracts and their macroemulsion products, followed by formulation, characterization, and stability of spice stick balsam products containing lemon pepper and black ginger macroemulsions. The extraction yields obtained were 24% w/w for lemon pepper and 59% w/w for black ginger. GC/MS results showed that the lemon pepper extract contained limonene and geraniol compounds, and black ginger extract contained gingerol, shogaol, and tetramethoxyflavone compounds. Spice extracts were successfully made in the form of a stable emulsion. The antioxidant activity in both spice extracts and emulsions was relatively high (>50%). The five stick balsam formulas obtained had a pH of 5, 4.5–4.8 cm spread ability, and 30–50 s of adhesion. The stability of products showed no microbial contamination. Based on the organoleptic results, the stick balsam formula of black ginger and black ginger: lemon pepper (1:3) was the most preferred by the panelists. In conclusion, lemon pepper and black ginger extracts and macroemulsions could be used as natural pain relievers in stick balsam products to promote health protection.

Qualitative Profiling and Quantitative Analysis of Major Constituents in Jinmu-tang by UHPLC-Q-Orbitrap-MS and UPLC-TQ-MS/MS

Jinmu-tang (JMT) is a traditional herbal medicine consisting of five herbal medicines: Poria cocos Wolf, Paeonia lactiflora Pallas, Zingiber officinale Roscoe, Atractylodes japonica Koidzumi, and Aconitum carmichaeli Debeaux. In this study, the JMT components were profiled using UHPLC-Q-Orbitrap-MS, and 23 compounds were identified and characterized. In addition, UPLC-TQ-MS/MS analysis was performed in the positive and negative ion modes of an electrospray ionization source for the simultaneous quantification of the identified compounds. The multiple reaction monitoring (MRM) method was established to increase the sensitivity of the quantitative analysis, and the method was verified through linearity, recovery, and precision. All analytes showed good linearity (R2 ≤ 0.9990). Moreover, the recovery and the relative standard deviation of precision were 86.19-114.62% and 0.20-8.00%, respectively. Using the established MRM analysis method, paeoniflorin was found to be the most abundant compound in JMT. In conclusion, these results provide information on the constituents of JMT and can be applied to quality control and evaluation.

A sense of ginger fraud: prevalence and deconstruction of the China-European union supply chain

As an important spice, ginger has been widely distributed in the Chinese and the European Union (EU) markets, the two largest trading areas, in various forms. The ginger supply chain between China and the EU is long and complex, providing opportunities for fraudsters to deceive consumers. However, limited attention has been given to food fraud in ginger, and there is a lack of research on this topic. In this review, ginger was used as an example for interpreting the fraud issues within low-priced and high-trade volume spice products. This review aims to summarize the open access information from food and food fraud databases, literature, and stakeholders about ginger fraud, and to map, deconstruct and analyse the food fraud vulnerability in the supply chain. In addition, potential testing strategies to detect ginger fraud were also discussed. The investigation of food fraud databases, a semi-structured literature review and online interviews with stakeholders revealed that adulteration is the major fraud type in ginger products. And the most vulnerable ginger products are ground ginger and finely processed ginger. The ginger supply chain from China to the EU comprises nine stages and is medium vulnerable to food fraud, both in regard to opportunities and motivational drivers. To ensure the integrity of the ginger supply chain, there is a need to apply fraud vulnerability tools in the companies of the industry. In addition, screening and confirmatory techniques based on the characteristics of ginger should be utilised for monitoring fraud issues in the supply chain.

Untargeted metabolomics study and identification of potential biomarkers in the six sections of the genus Stachys L. (Lamiaceae) using HPLC-MQ-API-MS/MS

INTRODUCTION

The genus Stachys L., belonging to the family Lamiaceae, is one of the largest genera with remarkable medicinal properties. Plants of this genus produce a broad range of secondary metabolites.

OBJECTIVES

Due to the incomplete comprehensive assessment of chemical profiles in Stachys species, we conducted an untargeted metabolomics study and identified potential biomarkers in the six sections of Stachys with chemotaxonomic importance.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Dried leaves of 17 taxa were utilized for analysis of all the constituents using HPLC-MQ-API-MS. The obtained data were processed and analyzed using multivariate statistical methods, including heatmaps, PLS-DA score plots, functional analysis of metabolic pathways, metabolite set enrichment analysis, and biomarker and network analysis.

RESULTS

Among the 129 metabolites, 111 flavonoids and 18 non-flavonoids were recognized. The most represented flavonoids, including 41 flavones and 20 flavonols, displayed remarkable abundance. In non-flavonoid compounds, a total of six coumarins and six phenolic acids were present at high levels. In terms of approved markers in six sections, 76 chemical compounds, mainly flavonoids, coumarins, quinic acids, and cinnamic acids, were identified as potential biomarkers or chemotaxonomic indicators. Accordingly, the taxonomic complexities of some Stachys species in sections Fragilicaulis, Aucheriana, and Setifolia were properly resolved.

CONCLUSION

An HPLC-MS/MS-based metabolomics approach integrated with multivariate statistical methods was employed to identify (1) valuable markers and analyze metabolic diversity and (2) predict the pharmaceutical properties of Stachys species. The obtained chemical profiles provide a new perspective for investigation of the Stachys genus.

Bioactive characterization of ultrasonicated ginger (Zingiber officinale) and licorice (Glycyrrhiza Glabra) freeze dried extracts

Ginger (Zingiber officinale) and Licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra L.) are one of the most popular spices having a wide range of bioactive compounds that have varied biological and pharmacological properties. The study was aimed to extract polyphenols from Himalayan medicinal herbs ginger and licorice in different solvents using ultra-sonication technique. The extraction efficiency (EE) was determined, and the extracts were characterized for physical properties (particle size, colour values), total phenolics, flavonoids, antioxidant properties, and structural and morphological features. Ultra-sonicated ginger in aqueous phase had the highest EE of polyphenols (15.27%) as compared to other solvents. Similar trend was observed in licorice with EE of 30.52 % in aqueous phase followed by ethanol: water (50: 50), and methanol: water (50:50) with 28.52% and 26.39%, respectively. The preliminary screening showed the presence of tannins, phenolics, flavonoids, saponins and carbohydrates, steroids and alkaloids in all the extracts. The phenolic and flavonoid content of dried ginger was found higher in ethanolic extracts compared to fresh ones as revealed by HPLC. Similarly, for licorice, the ethanolic fractions had the highest polyphenolic content. The representative samples of ginger (ethanol: water 75:25 and ethylacetate: water 75:25) and licorice (ethanol: water 70:30 and methanol: water 50:50) were studied for FESEM and particle size. The results showed the agglomerated extract micro-particles with a diameter of 0.5-10 µm and increased particle size (ginger: 547 and 766 nm), and (licorice: 450 and 566 nm). The findings could be beneficial for the advancement of ginger and licorice processing, for the comprehension of these herbs as a source of natural antioxidants in different food formulations.

Kaempferia parviflora Rhizome Extract as Potential Anti-Acne Ingredient

Kaempferia parviflora (Black ginger) is used widely in medical fields as an anti-microorganism and anti-inflammation. In this study, the aim was to evaluate the in vitro and in vivo anti-acne efficacy of black ginger extract. The results indicate that the methanol and ethanol extracts showed the highest total phenolic contents, without a significant difference, whereas the n-hexane extract showed the highest total flavonoid content. Nine flavones were detected using UPLC−QTOF−MS, and the ethyl acetate extract showed the highest amount of 5,7-dimethoxyflavone (DMF) according to HPLC. Antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus aureus, S. epidermidis, and Cutibacterium acnes was observed. All the extracts showed antimicrobial activity against C. acnes, revealing MICs in the range of 0.015 to 0.030 mg/mL, whereas the ethyl acetate extract inhibited the growth of S. epidermidis with a MIC of 3.84 mg/mL. In addition, the ethyl acetate extract showed the highest activity regarding nitric oxide inhibition (IC50 = 12.59 ± 0.35 µg/mL). The ethyl acetate extract was shown to be safe regarding cell viability at 0.1 mg/mL. The anti-acne efficacy was evaluated on volunteers. The volunteers were treated in two groups: one administered a 0.02% ethyl acetate extract gel-cream (n = 9) and one administered a placebo (n = 9) for 6 weeks. The group treated with the gel-cream containing the extract showed 36.52 and 52.20% decreases in acne severity index (ASI) after 4 and 6 weeks, respectively, and 18.19 and 18.54% decreases in erythema, respectively. The results suggest that K. parviflora could be a potent active ingredient in anti-inflammatory and anti-acne products.

UPLC-HRMS Polyphenolic Characterization, Contents and Antioxidant Activity of Zingiber officinale Roscoe rhizomes from Costa Rica

Zingiber officinale Roscoe rhizomes have been associated with multiple health benefits, such as blocking blood clotting, digestive and antinausea effects and aid in respiratory conditions. These effects have been linked with their polyphenolic main metabolites, gingerols and shogaols. Herewith, we report a detailed study on the polyphenolic profile and in the contents of main gingerols and shogaol as well as the antioxidant activity of extracts from Z. officinale rhizomes (n = 17) produced in Costa Rica. Using UPLC-QTOF-ESI MS, a total of 34 polyphenols were identified, grouped in 12 types of structures. In addition, our findings on the main metabolites using UPLC-DAD show all rhizomes complying with total gingerols (TG) content established by the United States Pharmacopeia (USP). At an individual level, samples SR-1 and NR-4 show the higher contents and also exhibit the highest Folin–Ciocalteu (FC) reducing capacity results as well as the best DPPH antioxidant values. In addition, Pearson correlation analysis results showed positive correlation (p < 0.05) between TG and 6-gingerol with FC results and negative correlation (p < 0.05) between 6-gingerol, TG and FC with DPPH results. In turn, Principal Component Analysis (PCA) indicated variability in the composition associated with their region of origin and confirmed that NR-3, NR-4, and especially SR-1 stand out significatively, showing the highest PC1 because of its particularly high TG, 6-gingerol and antioxidant activities. Finally, results from controlled experimental plots of Z. officinale rhizomes (n = 6) indicated influence on metabolites content with higher values for a shorter harvest time and high tunnel cultivation. Therefore, our findings indicate the value of Z. officinale in the elaboration of products with potential benefits for health, delivering extracts with higher levels of gingerols than previous reports and exhibiting high antioxidant activity.

Potential Role of Ginger (Zingiber officinale Roscoe) in the Prevention of Neurodegenerative Diseases

Ginger is composed of multiple bioactive compounds, including 6-gingerol, 6-shogaol, 10-gingerol, gingerdiones, gingerdiols, paradols, 6-dehydrogingerols, 5-acetoxy-6-gingerol, 3,5-diacetoxy-6-gingerdiol, and 12-gingerol, that contribute to its recognized biological activities. Among them, the major active compounds are 6-shogaol and 6-gingerol. Scientific evidence supports the beneficial properties of ginger, including antioxidant and anti-inflammatory capacities and in contrast, a specific and less studied bioactivity is the possible neuroprotective effect. The increase in life expectancy has raised the incidence of neurodegenerative diseases (NDs), which present common neuropathological features as increased oxidative stress, neuroinflammation and protein misfolding. The structure-activity relationships of ginger phytochemicals show that ginger can be a candidate to treat NDs by targeting different ligand sites. Its bioactive compounds may improve neurological symptoms and pathological conditions by modulating cell death or cell survival signaling molecules. The cognitive enhancing effects of ginger might be partly explained via alteration of both the monoamine and the cholinergic systems in various brain areas. Moreover, ginger decreases the production of inflammatory related factors. The aim of the present review is to summarize the effects of ginger in the prevention of major neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease and multiple sclerosis.

Preliminary studies of Volten VR4® Kaempferia parviflora herb extracts on blood glucose levels in human type-2 diabetes mellitus and its mineral element analysis

Introduction

Volten VR4® capsules containing herb extract of Kaempferia parviflora has been claimed to reduce blood glucose in patients with diabetes.

Objectives

This preliminary study is conducted to evaluate the efficacy of Volten VR4® on healthy individuals and type-2 diabetes mellitus volunteers. The extracts of 400 mg capsules of Kaempferia parviflora (KP) were used to measure the blood glucose level of 2-hour postprandial.

Methods

The healthy group consists of 15 young adults aged 20-30 with no history of serious diseases, while the diabetic group includes 12 individuals aged 35-75 diagnosed with type-2 diabetes mellitus. Data were validated through the Willcoxon and Friedman test statistics and error distribution. The investigation was continued to trace the capsules contents of elements using inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry (ICP-OES) techniques.

Results

It has been shown that KP reducing blood sugar levels has been associated with flavonoids and methoxyflavones components. The result specifically showed that consuming VR4® capsules can significantly reduce blood glucose, either at the state of fasting or postprandially. In the study the content of mineral and heavy metal elements in VR4® capsules has been evaluated.

Conclusion

Volten VR4® Kaempferia parviflora extract is safe to be consumed at a single dose of 400 mg. The study also has shown that the participants are free from adverse reactions and hypoglycaemia.

Protective Effect of Polymethoxyflavones Isolated from Kaempferia parviflora against TNF-α-Induced Human Dermal Fibroblast Damage

Similar to other organs, the skin undergoes a natural aging process. Moreover, constant direct exposure to environmental stresses, including ultraviolet irradiation, causes the signs of skin aging to appear rather early. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) and inflammatory responses accelerate skin damage in extrinsic aging. In this study, we aimed to investigate the skin protective effects of polymethoxyflavones found in Kaempferia parviflora against oxidative stress and inflammation-induced damage in human dermal fibroblasts (HDFs) stimulated by tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α). The experimental data identified 5,7,4' trimethoxyflavone (TMF) as the most potent constituent in preventing TNF-α-induced HDF damage among the tested compounds and it was not only effective in inhibiting matrix metalloproteinase-1 (MMP-1) production but also in stimulating collagen, type I, and alpha 1 (COLIA1) expression. TMF suppressed TNF-α-stimulated generation of ROS and pro-inflammatory mediators, such as cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2), interleukin (IL)-1β, and IL-6 in HDFs. TMF also inhibited the pathways regulating fibroblast damage, including mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK), activator protein 1 (AP-1), and nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB). In conclusion, TMF may be a potential agent for preventing skin aging and other dermatological disorders associated with oxidative stress and inflammation.

The integration of MS-based metabolomics and multivariate data analysis allows for improved quality assessment of Zingiber officinale Roscoe

Ginger (Zingiber officinale Roscoe) is consumed for health-promoting effects and as a food condiment. Comprehensive phytochemical analysis, other than gingerols and shogaols, has not yet been deeply investigated. Hence, the current research aimed to establish a non-targeted metabolomics approach for the discrimination between fresh ginger rhizome samples collected from four different producing countries, i.e., China, India, Pakistan, and Peru. In addition, lab-dried samples were analyzed to trace drying-induced metabolites. A comprehensive extraction procedure was carried out resulting in production of polar and non-polar fractions. The polar fraction was analyzed by ultra-performance liquid chromatography coupled with Fourier transform tandem mass spectrometry (UPLC-C18-FT-MS/MS) and gas chromatography coupled with time-of-flight mass spectrometry (GC-TOF-MS) post derivatization. UPLC-C8-FT-MS/MS was used for analysis of non-polar fraction. Results revealed for identification of a total of 253 metabolites. In addition, multivariate data analysis (MVDA), including principal component analysis (PCA) demonstrated clustering of Asian specimens. Several metabolites with a characteristic pattern for the origin revealing the highest contents of bioactive metabolites in the Peruvian product. Moreover, chemical markers identified, including [6]-gingerol and [6]-shogaol discriminating between fresh and dried samples. Furthermore, abundances of some primary metabolites, including amino acids and cinnamic acid, have confirmed the biosynthetic pathway of gingerols and their transformation upon drying to shogaols. The proposed approach can be applied as a potential candidate for quality assessment of ginger and other medicinal plants.

Identification of α-Glucosidase Inhibitors from Leaf Extract of Pepper (Capsicum spp.) through Metabolomic Analysis

Metabolomics and in vitro α-glucosidase inhibitory (AGI) activities of pepper leaves were used to identify bioactive compounds and select genotypes for the management of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Targeted metabolite analysis using UPLC-DAD-QToF-MS was employed and identified compounds that belong to flavone and hydroxycinnamic acid derivatives from extracts of pepper leaves. A total of 21 metabolites were detected from 155 samples and identified based on MS fragmentations, retention time, UV absorbance, and previous reports. Apigenin-O-(malonyl) hexoside, luteolin-O-(malonyl) hexoside, and chrysoeriol-O-(malonyl) hexoside were identified for the first time from pepper leaves. Pepper genotypes showed a huge variation in their inhibitory activity against α-glucosidase enzyme(AGE) ranging from 17% to 79%. Genotype GP38 with inhibitory activity of 79% was found to be more potent than the positive control acarbose (70.8%.). Orthogonal partial least square (OPLS) analyses were conducted for the prediction of the AGI activities of pepper leaves based on their metabolite composition. Compounds that contributed the most to the bioactivity prediction model (VIP >1.5), showed a strong inhibitory potency. Caffeoyl-putrescine was found to show a stronger inhibitory potency (IC₅₀ = 145 µM) compared to acarbose (IC₅₀ = 197 µM). The chemometric procedure combined with high-throughput AGI screening was effective in selecting polyphenols of pepper leaf for T2DM management.

Nephroprotective activity of Aframomum melegueta seeds extract against diclofenac-induced acute kidney injury: A mechanistic study

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

In Africa, Aframomum species have been traditionally used to treat illnesses such as inflammation, hypertension, diarrhea, stomachache and fever. Moreover, Aframomum melegueta seed extracts (AMSE) are used in traditional medicine to relieve stomachaches and inflammatory diseases.

AIM

Chronic administration of diclofenac (DIC) has been reported to cause acute kidney injury (AKI), which is a serious health condition. The nephroprotective effect of AMSE is yet to be elucidated. Accordingly, this study aims to investigate the phytoconstituents of standardized AMSE, evaluate its nephroprotective effects against DIC-induced AKI in rats, and elaborate its underlying molecular mechanisms.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The quantitative estimation of major AMSE constituents and profiling of its secondary metabolites were conducted via RP-HPLC and LC-ESI/Triple TOF/MS, respectively. Next, DIC (50 mg/kg)-induced AKI was achieved in Sprague-Dawley rats and DIC-challenged rats were administered AMSE (100 and 200 mg/kg) orally. All treatments were administered for five consecutive days. Blood samples were collected and the sera were used for estimating creatinine, urea and, kidney injury molecule (KIM)-1 levels. Kidney specimens were histopathologically assessed and immunohistochemically examined for c-Myc expression. A portion of the kidney tissue was homogenized and examined for levels of oxidative stress markers (MDA and GSH). Heme oxygenase (HO)-1, TNF-α, IL-6, Bax, Bcl2 and caspase-3 renal levels were quantified by ELISA. Moreover, the protein expression levels of NF-ҡB p65 was quantified using Western blot analysis, whereas mRNA expression levels of AMPK, SIRT-1, nuclear factor erythroid-2-related factor (Nrf2) and STAT3 were detected using qRT-PCR in the remaining kidney tissues.

RESULTS

Standardized AMSE was shown to primarily contain 6-gingerol, 6-shogaol and 6-paradol among the 73 compounds that were detected via LC-ESI/Triple TOF/MS including phenolic acids, hydroxyphenylalkanes, diarylheptanoids and fatty acids. Relative to DIC-intoxicated rats, AMSE modulated serum creatinine, urea, KIM-1, renal MDA, TNF-α, IL-6, Bax, and caspase-3 levels. AMSE has also improved renal tissue architecture, enhanced GSH and HO-1 levels, and upregulated renal Nrf2, AMPK, and SIRT-1 mRNA expression levels. Furthermore, AMSE suppressed NF-ҡB p65 protein and STAT3 mRNA expression, and further reduced c-Myc immunohistochemical expression in renal tissues. Overall, our findings revealed that AMSE counteracted DIC-induced AKI via its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antiapoptotic activities. Moreover, AMSE activated Nrf2/HO1 and AMPK/SIRT1, and inhibited NF-ҡB/STAT3 signaling pathways. Therefore, AMSE is a promising agent for inhibiting DIC-induced nephrotoxicity.

NMR and LC-MSn coupled with pharmacological network analysis for the assessment of phytochemical content and biopharmaceutical potential of Carapa procera extracts

The methanolic and water extracts of Carapa procera leaves and stem barks were screened for their phytochemical content using a multi-technique approach. The extracts were also assessed for their in vitro antioxidant capacity along with their anti-diabetic (α-amylase, α-glucosidase), anti-tyrosinase, anti-elastase and anti-cholinesterase (AChE, BChE) activities. Furthermore, antibacterial and antifungal effects were determined against several bacterial and fungal strains. Data Integration Analysis for Biomarker discovery using Latent components (DIABLO) integrative analysis was conducted on collected data to determine the influence of extraction solvents and plant parts on phytochemical content, antioxidant properties and enzyme inhibitory properties of C. procera samples. Additionally, the major identified compounds were screened as modulators of multiple pathways involved in human diseases via Gene Ontology (GO) enrichment analysis. Results showed that methanolic stem bark extract exhibited the most potent ABTS scavenging, Cu²⁺ and Fe³⁺ reducing power, total antioxidant capacity and Fe²⁺ chelating power and displayed the highest total flavanol content. Methanolic extracts of leaves and stem barks were abounded with phenolics and had the greatest anti-AChE, anti-BChE, anti-tyrosinase and anti-elastase activities. A significant antifungal activity was observed, with the lowest minimum inhibitory concentration and minimum fungicidal values of 0.07 and 0.15 mg/mL, respectively. DIABLO integrative analysis suggested that the phytochemical content and biological activities varied significantly within the plant parts and were influenced by types of solvent used. GO enrichment analysis on the main bioactive compounds showed modulation of multiple pathways associated with cancer. Obtained results demonstrated that stem bark and leaves of C. procera can be considered as promising sources of bioactive molecules with high pharmacological values.

Feruloyl sucrose derivatives from the root of Xerophyllum tenax

A phytochemical investigation of the roots of Xerophyllum tenax led to the isolation of three undescribed feruloyl sucrose derivatives along with two known feruloyl sucrose derivatives, heloniosides A and B. This is the first report of their occurrence in the genus Xerophyllum and the family Melanthiaceae. The structures of these compounds were elucidated on the basis of chemical and spectroscopic analysis including 1D and 2D NMR and analysis of MS-MS fragmentation.

Polyphenol-rich Indian ginger cultivars ameliorate GLUT4 activity in C2C12 cells, inhibit diabetes-related enzymes and LPS-induced inflammation: An in vitro study

Diabetes is a chronic metabolic disorder that results in distorted insulin signaling and microvascular complications. Current antidiabetic drugs possess harmful long term side effects, necessitating the need for alternate or compliment therapy with lesser issues. Medicinal plants such as ginger have been reported to possess several beneficial activities including antidiabetic activity. The antidiabetic efficacy of microwave-assisted polyphenolic extracts of Indian ginger cultivars from Odisha (MPO) and Tamil Nadu (MPT) is reported here. MPT and MPO showed insulin stimulated glucose uptake of 1.74 ± 0.25 and 1.47 ± 0.15 fold at 6.25 µg/ml of concentrations in C2C12 cells respectively when compared to control. MPT possessed α-amylase, α-glucosidase inhibitory and anti-glycation properties. It also showed DPPH radical scavenging activity (7.69 ± 0.001%), inhibited LPS-induced nitric oxide production (1.06 ± 0.004 fold) than the latter and increased the GLUT4 protein expression by 1.4 fold. Major active compounds such as shogaol and gingerol derivatives, curcumene, zingiberone were identified through GC-ESI/MS analysis and D-pinitol (cyclitol) was identified through HPLC analysis in this variety. This is the first paper to report the presence of an antidiabetic compound, D-pinitol, in the ginger variety. Polyphenol rich, biologically potent ginger extracts can be a good food and nutraceutical supplement to address diabetes and related complications. PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS: Ginger is a native spice of South Asian Countries including India. Ginger extracts possess several medicinal properties such as anti-inflammatory, antidiabetic and antioxidant activities. It is used to treat nausea, vomiting and commonly used as a food flavouring agent and dietary food supplement. Our study shows the antidiabetic, anti-glycation and antioxidant efficacy of polyphenol rich Indian ginger cultivars grown in different geographical regions. Variations in the biological activities between the MPT and MPO ginger variety was observed. Different environmental conditions and their corresponding metabolite accumulation can be correlated with the better activity shown by MPT variety. It showed an increased GLUT4 expression even at a lower dose of 6.25 µg/ml. Ginger cultivar, especially MPT variety can be used as an adjuvant therapy for treating diabetes. Therefore, our study indicates that polyphenols rich ginger cultivar has major application in functional food product development.