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Mohamed SM, Shalaby MA, El-Shiekh RA, Bakr AF, Kamel S, Emam SR, El-Banna HA. Maca roots: A potential therapeutic in the management of metabolic disorders through the modulation of metabolic biochemical markers in rats fed high-fat high-carbohydrate diet. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2024; 321:117533. [PMID: 38056538 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2023.117533] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2023] [Revised: 11/10/2023] [Accepted: 11/28/2023] [Indexed: 12/08/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Maca root (Lepidium meyenii Walp.) is a Peruvian plant of the Brassicaceae family. Maca roots are popular food supplements used to treat a variety of ailments described traditionally as enhancing metabolic and health conditions. AIM OF THE STUDY Metabolic syndrome (MetS) has been the real scourge globally, affecting more than one-fourth of the global population. MetS causes the development of multi-organ illnesses, including altered blood cholesterol and sugar levels, oxidative stress, and hypertension. This study evaluated maca root total methanolic extract (MTE) as a potential nutraceutical to manage the complications of MetS. MATERIALS AND METHODS After the first 4 weeks of a high-fat high-carbohydrate diet (HFCD), streptozotocin (STZ) was injected in Wistar rats to induce the MetS model. Animals were treated orally with MTE at 100 mg/kg and 300 mg/kg for 4 weeks compared to metformin at 200 mg/kg after confirmation of diabetes. RESULTS One month of MTE supplementation in HFCD-fed rats remarkably decreased the elevation of blood glucose and lipids, improved liver function and insulin resistance, additionally it successfully restored the state of inflammatory and oxidative stress. The extract was standardized to contain total phenolics equal to 24.45 ± 0.96 μg Gallic acid/mg extract. CONCLUSIONS Our findings suggest that MTE improves MetS by reducing hyperglycemia, hyperlipidemia, inflammation, and oxidative stress. While also improving beta cell secretory functions, implying that MTE could be used as a balancing drug in the prevention and treatment of metabolic abnormalities linked to type 2 diabetes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Salma Mostafa Mohamed
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Cairo University, 12211, Giza, Egypt.
| | - Mostafa Abbas Shalaby
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Cairo University, 12211, Giza, Egypt.
| | - Riham A El-Shiekh
- Department of Pharmacognosy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Cairo University, Cairo, 11562, Egypt.
| | - Alaa F Bakr
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt.
| | - Shaimaa Kamel
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Cairo University, Giza, 12211, Egypt.
| | - Shimaa R Emam
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Cairo University, 12211, Giza, Egypt.
| | - Hossny A El-Banna
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Cairo University, 12211, Giza, Egypt.
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Jaiswal V, Lee HJ. The Bioactivity and Phytochemicals of Muscari comosum ( Leopoldia comosa), a Plant of Multiple Pharmacological Activities. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:2592. [PMID: 38473839 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25052592] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2024] [Revised: 02/17/2024] [Accepted: 02/21/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Leopoldia comosa (LC), popularly known as Muscari comosum, spontaneously grows in the Mediterranean region and its bulbs are used as a vegetable. Traditionally, they are also used to treat various diseases and conditions, which has inspired the study of the pharmacological activities of different parts of LC. These studies revealed the numerous biological properties of LC including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-diabetes, anti-obesity, anti-cancer, anti-Alzheimer's disease, antibacterial, and immune stimulant. High antioxidant activity compared to other non-cultivated plants, and the potential role of antioxidant activity in other reported activities make LC an excellent candidate to be developed as an antioxidant plant against important associated diseases. The presence of a diverse class of phytochemicals (n = 85), especially flavonoids and homoisoflavones, in LC, also imparts significance to the nutraceutical candidature of the plant. However, limited animal studies and the lack of a directional approach have limited the further design of effective clinical studies for the development of LC. The current study is the first attempt to comprehensively compile information regarding the phytochemicals and pharmacological activities of LC, emphasize the targets/markers targeted by LC, important in other activities, and also highlight the current gaps and propose possible bridges for the development of LC as a therapeutic and/or supplement against important diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Varun Jaiswal
- Department of Food and Nutrition, College of BioNano Technology, Gachon University, Seongnam 13120, Republic of Korea
| | - Hae-Jeung Lee
- Department of Food and Nutrition, College of BioNano Technology, Gachon University, Seongnam 13120, Republic of Korea
- Institute for Aging and Clinical Nutrition Research, Gachon University, Seongnam 13120, Republic of Korea
- Department of Health Sciences and Technology, GAIHST, Gachon University, Incheon 21999, Republic of Korea
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3
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Gastaldi S, Rocca C, Gianquinto E, Granieri MC, Boscaro V, Blua F, Rolando B, Marini E, Gallicchio M, De Bartolo A, Romeo N, Mazza R, Fedele F, Pagliaro P, Penna C, Spyrakis F, Bertinaria M, Angelone T. Discovery of a novel 1,3,4-oxadiazol-2-one-based NLRP3 inhibitor as a pharmacological agent to mitigate cardiac and metabolic complications in an experimental model of diet-induced metaflammation. Eur J Med Chem 2023; 257:115542. [PMID: 37290185 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejmech.2023.115542] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2023] [Revised: 05/30/2023] [Accepted: 06/01/2023] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Inspired by the recent advancements in understanding the binding mode of sulfonylurea-based NLRP3 inhibitors to the NLRP3 sensor protein, we developed new NLRP3 inhibitors by replacing the central sulfonylurea moiety with different heterocycles. Computational studies evidenced that some of the designed compounds were able to maintain important interaction within the NACHT domain of the target protein similarly to the most active sulfonylurea-based NLRP3 inhibitors. Among the studied compounds, the 1,3,4-oxadiazol-2-one derivative 5 (INF200) showed the most promising results being able to prevent NLRP3-dependent pyroptosis triggered by LPS/ATP and LPS/MSU by 66.3 ± 6.6% and 61.6 ± 11.5% and to reduce IL-1β release (35.5 ± 8.8% μM) at 10 μM in human macrophages. The selected compound INF200 (20 mg/kg/day) was then tested in an in vivo rat model of high-fat diet (HFD)-induced metaflammation to evaluate its beneficial cardiometabolic effects. INF200 significantly counteracted HFD-dependent "anthropometric" changes, improved glucose and lipid profiles, and attenuated systemic inflammation and biomarkers of cardiac dysfunction (particularly BNP). Hemodynamic evaluation on Langendorff model indicate that INF200 limited myocardial damage-dependent ischemia/reperfusion injury (IRI) by improving post-ischemic systolic recovery and attenuating cardiac contracture, infarct size, and LDH release, thus reversing the exacerbation of obesity-associated damage. Mechanistically, in post-ischemic hearts, IFN200 reduced IRI-dependent NLRP3 activation, inflammation, and oxidative stress. These results highlight the potential of the novel NLRP3 inhibitor, INF200, and its ability to reverse the unfavorable cardio-metabolic dysfunction associated with obesity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simone Gastaldi
- Department of Drug Science and Technology, University of Turin, 10125, Turin, Italy
| | - Carmine Rocca
- Cellular and Molecular Cardiovascular Pathophysiology Laboratory, Department of Biology, E. and E.S. (DiBEST), University of Calabria, 87036, Rende, Italy
| | - Eleonora Gianquinto
- Department of Drug Science and Technology, University of Turin, 10125, Turin, Italy
| | - Maria Concetta Granieri
- Cellular and Molecular Cardiovascular Pathophysiology Laboratory, Department of Biology, E. and E.S. (DiBEST), University of Calabria, 87036, Rende, Italy
| | - Valentina Boscaro
- Department of Drug Science and Technology, University of Turin, 10125, Turin, Italy
| | - Federica Blua
- Department of Drug Science and Technology, University of Turin, 10125, Turin, Italy
| | - Barbara Rolando
- Department of Drug Science and Technology, University of Turin, 10125, Turin, Italy
| | - Elisabetta Marini
- Department of Drug Science and Technology, University of Turin, 10125, Turin, Italy
| | | | - Anna De Bartolo
- Cellular and Molecular Cardiovascular Pathophysiology Laboratory, Department of Biology, E. and E.S. (DiBEST), University of Calabria, 87036, Rende, Italy
| | - Naomi Romeo
- Cellular and Molecular Cardiovascular Pathophysiology Laboratory, Department of Biology, E. and E.S. (DiBEST), University of Calabria, 87036, Rende, Italy
| | - Rosa Mazza
- Cellular and Molecular Cardiovascular Pathophysiology Laboratory, Department of Biology, E. and E.S. (DiBEST), University of Calabria, 87036, Rende, Italy
| | - Francesco Fedele
- Department of Clinical, Internal, Anesthesiology and Cardiovascular Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Viale del Policlinico, 155, 00161, Rome, Italy; National Institute for Cardiovascular Research (INRC), Bologna, Italy
| | - Pasquale Pagliaro
- Department of Clinical and Biological Sciences, University of Turin, Turin, Italy; National Institute for Cardiovascular Research (INRC), Bologna, Italy
| | - Claudia Penna
- Department of Clinical and Biological Sciences, University of Turin, Turin, Italy; National Institute for Cardiovascular Research (INRC), Bologna, Italy.
| | - Francesca Spyrakis
- Department of Drug Science and Technology, University of Turin, 10125, Turin, Italy.
| | - Massimo Bertinaria
- Department of Drug Science and Technology, University of Turin, 10125, Turin, Italy.
| | - Tommaso Angelone
- Cellular and Molecular Cardiovascular Pathophysiology Laboratory, Department of Biology, E. and E.S. (DiBEST), University of Calabria, 87036, Rende, Italy; National Institute for Cardiovascular Research (INRC), Bologna, Italy
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Granieri MC, Rocca C, De Bartolo A, Nettore IC, Rago V, Romeo N, Ceramella J, Mariconda A, Macchia PE, Ungaro P, Sinicropi MS, Angelone T. Quercetin and Its Derivative Counteract Palmitate-Dependent Lipotoxicity by Inhibiting Oxidative Stress and Inflammation in Cardiomyocytes. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:3492. [PMID: 36834186 PMCID: PMC9958705 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20043492] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2023] [Revised: 02/13/2023] [Accepted: 02/14/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Cardiac lipotoxicity plays an important role in the pathogenesis of obesity-related cardiovascular disease. The flavonoid quercetin (QUE), a nutraceutical compound that is abundant in the "Mediterranean diet", has been shown to be a potential therapeutic agent in cardiac and metabolic diseases. Here, we investigated the beneficial role of QUE and its derivative Q2, which demonstrates improved bioavailability and chemical stability, in cardiac lipotoxicity. To this end, H9c2 cardiomyocytes were pre-treated with QUE or Q2 and then exposed to palmitate (PA) to recapitulate the cardiac lipotoxicity occurring in obesity. Our results showed that both QUE and Q2 significantly attenuated PA-dependent cell death, although QUE was effective at a lower concentration (50 nM) when compared with Q2 (250 nM). QUE decreased the release of lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), an important indicator of cytotoxicity, and the accumulation of intracellular lipid droplets triggered by PA. On the other hand, QUE protected cardiomyocytes from PA-induced oxidative stress by counteracting the formation of malondialdehyde (MDA) and protein carbonyl groups (which are indicators of lipid peroxidation and protein oxidation, respectively) and intracellular ROS generation, and by improving the enzymatic activities of catalase and superoxide dismutase (SOD). Pre-treatment with QUE also significantly attenuated the inflammatory response induced by PA by reducing the release of key proinflammatory cytokines (IL-1β and TNF-α). Similar to QUE, Q2 (250 nM) also significantly counteracted the PA-provoked increase in intracellular lipid droplets, LDH, and MDA, improving SOD activity and decreasing the release of IL-1β and TNF-α. These results suggest that QUE and Q2 could be considered potential therapeutics for the treatment of the cardiac lipotoxicity that occurs in obesity and metabolic diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Concetta Granieri
- Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Cardiovascular Pathophysiology, Department of Biology, Ecology and Earth Science (DiBEST), University of Calabria, 87036 Rende, Italy
| | - Carmine Rocca
- Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Cardiovascular Pathophysiology, Department of Biology, Ecology and Earth Science (DiBEST), University of Calabria, 87036 Rende, Italy
| | - Anna De Bartolo
- Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Cardiovascular Pathophysiology, Department of Biology, Ecology and Earth Science (DiBEST), University of Calabria, 87036 Rende, Italy
| | - Immacolata Cristina Nettore
- Dipartimento di Medicina Clinica e Chirurgia, Scuola di Medicina, Università degli Studi di Napoli Federico II, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Vittoria Rago
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, 87036 Rende, Italy
| | - Naomi Romeo
- Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Cardiovascular Pathophysiology, Department of Biology, Ecology and Earth Science (DiBEST), University of Calabria, 87036 Rende, Italy
| | - Jessica Ceramella
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, 87036 Rende, Italy
| | - Annaluisa Mariconda
- Department of Science, University of Basilicata, Viale dell’Ateneo Lucano 10, 85100 Potenza, Italy
| | - Paolo Emidio Macchia
- Dipartimento di Medicina Clinica e Chirurgia, Scuola di Medicina, Università degli Studi di Napoli Federico II, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Paola Ungaro
- Istituto per l’Endocrinologia e l’Oncologia Sperimentale (IEOS) “Gaetano Salvatore”, Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Maria Stefania Sinicropi
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, 87036 Rende, Italy
| | - Tommaso Angelone
- Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Cardiovascular Pathophysiology, Department of Biology, Ecology and Earth Science (DiBEST), University of Calabria, 87036 Rende, Italy
- National Institute of Cardiovascular Research (INRC), 40126 Bologna, Italy
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5
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Alam W, Rocca C, Khan H, Hussain Y, Aschner M, De Bartolo A, Amodio N, Angelone T, Cheang WS. Current Status and Future Perspectives on Therapeutic Potential of Apigenin: Focus on Metabolic-Syndrome-Dependent Organ Dysfunction. Antioxidants (Basel) 2021; 10:antiox10101643. [PMID: 34679777 PMCID: PMC8533599 DOI: 10.3390/antiox10101643] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2021] [Revised: 10/13/2021] [Accepted: 10/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Metabolic syndrome and its associated disorders such as obesity, insulin resistance, atherosclerosis and type 2 diabetes mellitus are globally prevalent. Different molecules showing therapeutic potential are currently available for the management of metabolic syndrome, although their efficacy has often been compromised by their poor bioavailability and side effects. Studies have been carried out on medicinal plant extracts for the treatment and prevention of metabolic syndrome. In this regard, isolated pure compounds have shown promising efficacy for the management of metabolic syndrome, both in preclinical and clinical settings. Apigenin, a natural bioactive flavonoid widely present in medicinal plants, functional foods, vegetables and fruits, exerts protective effects in models of neurological disorders and cardiovascular diseases and most of these effects are attributed to its antioxidant action. Various preclinical and clinical studies carried out so far show a protective effect of apigenin against metabolic syndrome. Herein, we provide a comprehensive review on both in vitro and in vivo evidence related to the promising antioxidant role of apigenin in cardioprotection, neuroprotection and renoprotection, and to its beneficial action in metabolic-syndrome-dependent organ dysfunction. We also provide evidence on the potential of apigenin in the prevention and/or treatment of metabolic syndrome, analysing the potential and limitation of its therapeutic use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Waqas Alam
- Department of Pharmacy, Abdul Wali Khan University Mardan, Mardan 23200, Pakistan;
| | - Carmine Rocca
- Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Cardiovascular Physiology, Department of Biology, Ecology and Earth Sciences (Di.B.E.S.T.), University of Calabria, 87036 Rende, Italy; (C.R.); (A.D.B.)
| | - Haroon Khan
- Department of Pharmacy, Abdul Wali Khan University Mardan, Mardan 23200, Pakistan;
- Correspondence: or (H.K.); (N.A.); (T.A.)
| | - Yaseen Hussain
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Soochow University, Suzhou 221400, China;
| | - Michael Aschner
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Forchheimer 209, 1300 Morris Park Avenue, Bronx, NY 10461, USA;
| | - Anna De Bartolo
- Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Cardiovascular Physiology, Department of Biology, Ecology and Earth Sciences (Di.B.E.S.T.), University of Calabria, 87036 Rende, Italy; (C.R.); (A.D.B.)
| | - Nicola Amodio
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Magna Graecia University of Catanzaro, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy
- Correspondence: or (H.K.); (N.A.); (T.A.)
| | - Tommaso Angelone
- Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Cardiovascular Physiology, Department of Biology, Ecology and Earth Sciences (Di.B.E.S.T.), University of Calabria, 87036 Rende, Italy; (C.R.); (A.D.B.)
- National Institute of Cardiovascular Research I.N.R.C., 40126 Bologna, Italy
- Correspondence: or (H.K.); (N.A.); (T.A.)
| | - Wai San Cheang
- State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, University of Macau, Avenida da Universidade, Taipa, Macao 999078, China;
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Neglected and Underutilized Plant Species (NUS) from the Apulia Region Worthy of Being Rescued and Re-Included in Daily Diet. HORTICULTURAE 2021. [DOI: 10.3390/horticulturae7070177] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Neglected and underutilized species (NUS) are cultivated, semi-domesticated, or wild plant species, not included in the group of the major staple crops, since, in most cases, they do not meet the global market requirements. As they often represent resilient species and valuable sources of vitamins, micronutrients, and other phytochemicals, a wider use of NUS would enhance sustainability of agro-systems and a choice of nutritious foods with a strategic role for addressing the nutritional security challenge across Europe. In this review, we focused on some examples of NUS from the Apulia Region (Southern Italy), either cultivated or spontaneously growing species, showing interesting adaptative, nutritional, and economical potential that can be exploited and properly enhanced in future programs.
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Rocca C, Grande F, Granieri MC, Colombo B, De Bartolo A, Giordano F, Rago V, Amodio N, Tota B, Cerra MC, Rizzuti B, Corti A, Angelone T, Pasqua T. The chromogranin A 1-373 fragment reveals how a single change in the protein sequence exerts strong cardioregulatory effects by engaging neuropilin-1. Acta Physiol (Oxf) 2021; 231:e13570. [PMID: 33073482 DOI: 10.1111/apha.13570] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2020] [Revised: 10/13/2020] [Accepted: 10/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
AIM Chromogranin A (CgA), a 439-residue long protein, is an important cardiovascular regulator and a precursor of various bioactive fragments. Under stressful/pathological conditions, CgA cleavage generates the CgA1-373 proangiogenic fragment. The present work investigated the possibility that human CgA1-373 influences the mammalian cardiac performance, evaluating the role of its C-terminal sequence. METHODS Haemodynamic assessment was performed on an ex vivo Langendorff rat heart model, while mechanistic studies were performed using perfused hearts, H9c2 cardiomyocytes and in silico. RESULTS On the ex vivo heart, CgA1-373 elicited direct dose-dependent negative inotropism and vasodilation, while CgA1-372 , a fragment lacking the C-terminal R373 residue, was ineffective. Antibodies against the PGPQLR373 C-terminal sequence abrogated the CgA1-373 -dependent cardiac and coronary modulation. Ex vivo studies showed that CgA1-373 -dependent effects were mediated by endothelium, neuropilin-1 (NRP1) receptor, Akt/NO/Erk1,2 pathways, nitric oxide (NO) production and S-nitrosylation. In vitro experiments on H9c2 cardiomyocytes indicated that CgA1-373 also induced eNOS activation directly on the cardiomyocyte component by NRP1 targeting and NO involvement and provided beneficial action against isoproterenol-induced hypertrophy, by reducing the increase in cell surface area and brain natriuretic peptide (BNP) release. Molecular docking and all-atom molecular dynamics simulations strongly supported the hypothesis that the C-terminal R373 residue of CgA1-373 directly interacts with NRP1. CONCLUSION These results suggest that CgA1-373 is a new cardioregulatory hormone and that the removal of R373 represents a critical switch for turning "off" its cardioregulatory activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carmine Rocca
- Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Cardiovascular Patho‐Physiology Department of Biology, E. and E.S. University of Calabria Rende Italy
| | - Fedora Grande
- Laboratory of Medicinal and Analytical Chemistry Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences University of Calabria Rende Italy
| | - Maria Concetta Granieri
- Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Cardiovascular Patho‐Physiology Department of Biology, E. and E.S. University of Calabria Rende Italy
| | - Barbara Colombo
- Division of Experimental Oncology Vita‐Salute San Raffaele University–Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico (IRCCS) San Raffaele Scientific Institute Milan Italy
| | - Anna De Bartolo
- Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Cardiovascular Patho‐Physiology Department of Biology, E. and E.S. University of Calabria Rende Italy
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences University of Calabria Rende Italy
| | - Francesca Giordano
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences University of Calabria Rende Italy
| | - Vittoria Rago
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences University of Calabria Rende Italy
| | - Nicola Amodio
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine Magna Graecia University of Catanzaro Catanzaro Italy
| | - Bruno Tota
- Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Cardiovascular Patho‐Physiology Department of Biology, E. and E.S. University of Calabria Rende Italy
- Laboratory of Organ and System Physiology Department of Biology, E. and E.S. University of Calabria Rende Italy
| | - Maria Carmela Cerra
- Laboratory of Organ and System Physiology Department of Biology, E. and E.S. University of Calabria Rende Italy
| | - Bruno Rizzuti
- CNR‐NANOTEC Licryl‐UOS Cosenza and CEMIF.Cal Department of Physics University of Calabria Rende Italy
| | - Angelo Corti
- Division of Experimental Oncology Vita‐Salute San Raffaele University–Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico (IRCCS) San Raffaele Scientific Institute Milan Italy
| | - Tommaso Angelone
- Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Cardiovascular Patho‐Physiology Department of Biology, E. and E.S. University of Calabria Rende Italy
- National Institute of Cardiovascular Research (INRC) Bologna Italy
| | - Teresa Pasqua
- Laboratory of Cellular and Molecular Cardiovascular Patho‐Physiology Department of Biology, E. and E.S. University of Calabria Rende Italy
- "Fondazione Umberto Veronesi" Milan Italy
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Cardiac and Metabolic Impact of Functional Foods with Antioxidant Properties Based on Whey Derived Proteins Enriched with Hemp Seed Oil. Antioxidants (Basel) 2020; 9:antiox9111066. [PMID: 33143213 PMCID: PMC7692817 DOI: 10.3390/antiox9111066] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2020] [Revised: 10/23/2020] [Accepted: 10/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The impaired ability to feed properly, evident in oncologic, elderly, and dysphagic patients, may result in malnutrition and sarcopenia. Increasing the consumption of dietary proteins by functional foods and enriching their composition by adding beneficial nutrients may represent an adjuvant therapy. We aimed to evaluate the safety and the positive effects of a standard diet (SD) supplemented with whey-derived protein puddings (WDPP), with appropriate rheological properties, and hemp seed oil (HSO), rich in polyphenols. Rats were assigned to SD, WDPP, WDPP plus hemp seed oil (HSOP), and HSO supplemented diets for eight weeks. “Anthropometric”, metabolic, and biochemical variables, oxidative stress, tissue injury, liver histology, and cardiac susceptibility to ischemia/reperfusion were analyzed. All the supplementations did not induce significant changes in biochemical and metabolic variables, also in relation to glucose tolerance, and livers did not undergo morphological alteration and injury. An improvement of cardiac post-ischemic function in the Langendorff perfused heart model and a reduction of infarct size were observed in WDPP and HSOP groups, thanks to their antioxidant effects and the activation of Akt- and AMPK-dependent protective pathways. Data suggest that (i) functional foods enriched with WDPP and HSOP may be used to approach malnutrition and sarcopenia successfully under disabling conditions, also conferring cardioprotection, and that (ii) adequate rheological properties could positively impact dysphagia-related problems.
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Polyphenols of cambuci (Campomanesia phaea (O. Berg.)) fruit ameliorate insulin resistance and hepatic steatosis in obese mice. Food Chem 2020; 340:128169. [PMID: 33007695 DOI: 10.1016/j.foodchem.2020.128169] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2020] [Revised: 08/14/2020] [Accepted: 09/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Polyphenols from cambuci (CBC) (Campomanesia phaea (O. Berg.)), a Brazilian native fruit, were investigated on therapeutic actions mitigating insulin resistance and hepatic steatosis in high-fat-sucrose diet (HFS) induced obese mice. For this, C57BL/6J mice fed with a obesogenic and diabetogenic HFS diet were administered with either water or two CBC doses (36 or 74 mg gallic acid equivalent (GAE)/kg body weight) by gavage from week 6 to week 14 (end-point) of HFS feeding. CBC reduced body weight gain, inflammation, hepatic steatosis, hyperglycemia, glucose intolerance, and insulin resistance in liver and skeletal muscle of obese mice, and such effects were associated with activation of Akt and AMPK in these tissues. In conclusion, polyphenols from CBC show important therapeutic actions ameliorating obesity-associated complications.
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Shang A, Gan RY, Xu XY, Mao QQ, Zhang PZ, Li HB. Effects and mechanisms of edible and medicinal plants on obesity: an updated review. Crit Rev Food Sci Nutr 2020; 61:2061-2077. [PMID: 32462901 DOI: 10.1080/10408398.2020.1769548] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
In recent years, obesity has become a global public health issue. It is closely associated with the occurrence of several chronic diseases, such as diabetes and cardiovascular diseases. Some edible and medicinal plants show anti-obesity activity, such as fruits, vegetables, spices, legumes, edible flowers, mushrooms, and medicinal plants. Numerous studies have indicated that these plants are potential candidates for the prevention and management of obesity. The major anti-obesity mechanisms of plants include suppressing appetite, reducing the absorption of lipids and carbohydrates, inhibiting adipogenesis and lipogenesis, regulating lipid metabolism, increasing energy expenditure, regulating gut microbiota, and improving obesity-related inflammation. In this review, the anti-obesity activity of edible and medicinal plants was summarized based on epidemiological, experimental, and clinical studies, with related mechanisms discussed, which provided the basis for the research and development of slimming products. Further studies should focus on the exploration of safer plants with anti-obesity activity and the identification of specific anti-obesity mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ao Shang
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Food, Nutrition and Health, Department of Nutrition, School of Public Health, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Ren-You Gan
- Research Center for Plants and Human Health, Institute of Urban Agriculture, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Chengdu, China.,Chengdu National Agricultural Science and Technology Center (NASC), Chengdu, China
| | - Xiao-Yu Xu
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Food, Nutrition and Health, Department of Nutrition, School of Public Health, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Qian-Qian Mao
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Food, Nutrition and Health, Department of Nutrition, School of Public Health, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Pang-Zhen Zhang
- School of Agriculture and Food, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Hua-Bin Li
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Food, Nutrition and Health, Department of Nutrition, School of Public Health, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
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11
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Hesperidin ameliorates signs of the metabolic syndrome and cardiac dysfunction via IRS/Akt/GLUT4 signaling pathway in a rat model of diet-induced metabolic syndrome. Eur J Nutr 2020; 60:833-848. [PMID: 32462317 DOI: 10.1007/s00394-020-02291-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2019] [Accepted: 05/18/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hesperidin has been reported to have biological activities such as antihypertensive, hypoglycemic, and antioxidant effects. This study investigated whether hesperidin could improve signs of the metabolic syndrome and cardiac function in a high-fat diet (HFD) induced metabolic syndrome (MS) in rats. METHODS Male Sprague-Dawley rats were fed HFD and 15% fructose for 16 weeks and treated with hesperidin (15 or 30 mg/kg, based on signs of MS from a preliminary study) or metformin, a positive control agent, (100 mg/kg) for the final four weeks. Cardiac function, blood pressure, fasting blood glucose, oral glucose tolerance, serum insulin, and lipid profiles were measured. Histomorphometrics of left ventricles, epidydimal fat pads and liver were evaluated. Expressions of phosphorylate insulin receptor substrate1(p-IRS1), p-Akt and GLUT4 in cardiac tissue were determined. RESULTS Hesperidin and metformin attenuated MS in HFD rats (p < 0.05). The accumulation of visceral fat pads and fatty liver associated with increases in liver lipid contents and liver enzymes were found in MS rats that were alleviated in hesperidin or metformin-treated groups (p < 0.05). Hesperidin and metformin improved cardiac dysfunction and hypertrophy observed in MS rats (p < 0.05). Restoration of the insulin signaling pathway, IRS/Akt/GLUT4 protein expression, was demonstrated in hesperidin and metformin-treated groups (p < 0.05). Hesperidin (30 mg/kg) was more effective than the lower dose. CONCLUSION Hesperidin was effective in reducing signs of MS and alterations of LV hypertrophy and function. These beneficial effects on the heart were associated with the restoration of the cardiac insulin signaling pathway in MS rats.
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12
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Rajan L, Palaniswamy D, Mohankumar SK. Targeting obesity with plant-derived pancreatic lipase inhibitors: A comprehensive review. Pharmacol Res 2020; 155:104681. [PMID: 32045666 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2020.104681] [Citation(s) in RCA: 72] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2019] [Revised: 02/03/2020] [Accepted: 02/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
The prevalence of obesity is alarmingly increasing in the last few decades and leading to many serious public health concerns worldwide. The dysregulated lipid homeostasis due to various genetic, environmental and lifestyle factors is considered one of the critical putative pathways mediating obesity. Nonetheless, the scientific advancements unleashing the molecular dynamics of lipid metabolism have provided deeper insights on the emerging roles of lipid hydrolysing enzymes, including pancreatic lipase. It is hypothesized that inhibiting pancreatic lipase would prevent the breakdown of triglyceride and delays the absorption of fatty acids into the systemic circulation and adipocytes. Whilst, orlistat is the only conventional pancreatic lipase enzyme inhibitor available in clinics, identifying the safe clinical alternatives from plants to inhibit pancreatic lipase has been considered a significant advancement. Consequently, plants which have shown significant potential to combat obesity are now revisited for its abilities to inhibit pancreatic lipase. In this regard, our review surveyed the potential of medicinal plants and its phytoconstituents to inhibit pancreatic lipase and to elicit anti-obesity effects. Thus, the review collate and critically appraise the potential of medicinal plants and phyto-molecules inhibiting pancreatic lipase enzyme and consequently modulating triglyceride absorption in gut, and discuss its implications in the development of novel therapeutic strategies to combat obesity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Logesh Rajan
- TIFAC CORE in Herbal Drugs, Department of Pharmacognosy, JSS College of Pharmacy, JSS Academy of Higher Education & Research, Rockland's, Ooty, 643001, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Dhanabal Palaniswamy
- TIFAC CORE in Herbal Drugs, Department of Pharmacognosy, JSS College of Pharmacy, JSS Academy of Higher Education & Research, Rockland's, Ooty, 643001, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Suresh Kumar Mohankumar
- TIFAC CORE in Herbal Drugs, Department of Pharmacognosy, JSS College of Pharmacy, JSS Academy of Higher Education & Research, Rockland's, Ooty, 643001, Tamil Nadu, India.
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13
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Porres JM, Constantino J, Kapravelou G, Lopez-Chaves C, Galisteo M, Aranda P, López-Jurado M, Martínez R. The combined treatment with lentil protein hydrolysate and a mixed training protocol is an efficient lifestyle intervention to manage cardiovascular and renal alterations in obese Zucker rats. Eur J Nutr 2020; 59:3473-3490. [PMID: 32030473 DOI: 10.1007/s00394-020-02181-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2019] [Accepted: 01/06/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Functional and structural changes in cardiovascular and renal systems resulting from obesity and metabolic syndrome represent a severe risk to human health. Lifestyle interventions such as combining healthy diet with adequate physical exercise protocols are good strategies to manage these pathologies. In this research, the effects of lentil protein hydrolysate administration, combined or not with a mixed training protocol, on insulin resistance, cardiovascular and renal functionality were studied in the obese Zucker rat experimental model. METHODS Thirty-two rats (16 lean and 16 obese subdivided in sedentary and trained animals) were administered lentil protein hydrolysate, whereas another 32 subdivided in the same experimental design were administered placebo. The experiment lasted for 8 weeks. At the end of the experimental period, insulin resistance and different parameters of cardiovascular and renal functionality were measured. RESULTS The individual or combined interventions with lentil protein hydrolysate and mixed training protocol were efficient at counteracting some of the metabolic, cardiovascular and renal alterations characterizing the obese Zucker rat. Specifically, lentil protein hydrolysate decreased hyperphagia, amplitude of QRS complex, plasma ACE and selectin E expression in aorta, while increasing urinary volume and pH. Exercise showed beneficial actions on HOMA-IR, QRS amplitude, QTc interval, urinary volume, kidney weight and Mn-SOD activity. Interestingly, most of the mentioned benefits of exercise were more consistent when protein hydrolysate was also administered. CONCLUSION The interesting synergies between the two interventions assessed qualify them as alternative therapeutic strategies to treat cardiovascular and kidney diseases associated to the metabolic syndrome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jesus M Porres
- Department of Physiology, Institute of Nutrition and Food Technology, Centre for Biomedical Research, Health and Sport Research Centre (IMUDS), Universidad de Granada, Granada, Spain
| | - Janin Constantino
- Department of Physiology, Institute of Nutrition and Food Technology, Centre for Biomedical Research, Health and Sport Research Centre (IMUDS), Universidad de Granada, Granada, Spain
| | - Garyfallia Kapravelou
- Department of Physiology, Institute of Nutrition and Food Technology, Centre for Biomedical Research, Health and Sport Research Centre (IMUDS), Universidad de Granada, Granada, Spain
| | - Carlos Lopez-Chaves
- Department of Physiology, Institute of Nutrition and Food Technology, Centre for Biomedical Research, Health and Sport Research Centre (IMUDS), Universidad de Granada, Granada, Spain
| | - Milagros Galisteo
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Biohealth Research Institute, Centre for Biomedical Research, Universidad de Granada, Campus Universitario de Cartuja s/n, 18071, Granada, Spain
| | - Pilar Aranda
- Department of Physiology, Institute of Nutrition and Food Technology, Centre for Biomedical Research, Health and Sport Research Centre (IMUDS), Universidad de Granada, Granada, Spain
| | - María López-Jurado
- Department of Physiology, Institute of Nutrition and Food Technology, Centre for Biomedical Research, Health and Sport Research Centre (IMUDS), Universidad de Granada, Granada, Spain.
| | - Rosario Martínez
- Department of Physiology, Institute of Nutrition and Food Technology, Centre for Biomedical Research, Health and Sport Research Centre (IMUDS), Universidad de Granada, Granada, Spain
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Abstract
OBJECTIVE A retrospective chart review was conducted to explore the effect of Gambisan, a granular extract of novel herbal medicine, for short-term (≤16 weeks) weight loss in adults who are overweight and those with obesity. METHODS Outpatients of Kyung Hee University Korean Medicine Hospital (Seoul, Korea) who took Gambisan and underwent bioelectric impedance analysis were selected (Jan 2011 to Dec 2015); their electronic medical records and clinical charts were retrospectively reviewed. The effectiveness of Gambisan was primarily evaluated by comparing body weight (BW) at baseline and endpoint, using paired t tests; the safety of Gambisan was evaluated on the basis of adverse events (AEs) experienced by patients. RESULTS Two hundred five patients were included in this study. The study population exhibited a significant reduction in BW (73.69 ± 14.49 kg to 69.01 ± 13.20 kg, P < .001) as well as percentage body fat (37.38 ± 5.38% to 34.50 ± 5.83%, P < .001). Moreover, 111 (54.1%) patients achieved modest weight loss (≥5%), while 35 (17.1%) achieved ≥10% weight loss. Furthermore, Gambisan induced significant reduction of BW in all subgroups (body mass index, sex, prescribed duration, and dosage). Among 139 patients with available data, 79 (56.8%) reported loss-of-appetite. In addition, 120 (mostly mild) AEs were reported in 69 (49.6%) patients, and the most frequent AEs were nausea, palpitation, and insomnia. DISCUSSION Despite limitations in interpreting the results of this retrospective medical record review, Gambisan induced statistically and clinically meaningful weight loss with a tolerable level of AEs. Based on the findings of this review, further well-designed clinical trials are warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dae-Hyun Jo
- Department of Acupuncture and Moxibustion, College of Korean Medicine, Kyung Hee University
- Department of Korean Medicine, Geumwang Health Subcenter, Bureau of Health Policy, Ministry of Health and Welfare, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Seunghoon Lee
- Department of Acupuncture and Moxibustion, College of Korean Medicine, Kyung Hee University
| | - Jae-Dong Lee
- Department of Acupuncture and Moxibustion, College of Korean Medicine, Kyung Hee University
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15
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Casacchia T, Occhiuzzi MA, Grande F, Rizzuti B, Granieri MC, Rocca C, Gattuso A, Garofalo A, Angelone T, Statti G. A pilot study on the nutraceutical properties of the Citrus hybrid Tacle® as a dietary source of polyphenols for supplementation in metabolic disorders. J Funct Foods 2019. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jff.2018.11.030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
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16
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Singer-Englar T, Barlow G, Mathur R. Obesity, diabetes, and the gut microbiome: an updated review. Expert Rev Gastroenterol Hepatol 2019; 13:3-15. [PMID: 30791839 DOI: 10.1080/17474124.2019.1543023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 113] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Obesity and diabetes are two of the most prevalent health problems and leading causes of death globally. As research on the intestinal microbiome increases, so does our understanding of its intricate relationship to these diseases, although this has yet to be fully elucidated. Areas covered: This review evaluates the role of the gut microbiome in obesity and diabetes, including the influences of internal and environmental factors. Literature searches were performed using the keywords 'diabetes,' 'insulin resistance,' 'gut microbiome,' 'gut microbes,' 'obesity,' and 'weight gain.' Expert commentary: Highlights of recent research include new findings regarding the effects of caloric restriction, which expound the importance of diet in shaping the gut microbiome, and studies reinforcing the lasting implications of antibiotic use for diabetes and obesity, particularly repeated doses in early childhood. Mechanistically, interactions between the microbiome and the host innate immune system, mediated by TLR4-LPS signaling, have been shown to meditate the metabolic benefits of caloric restriction. Further, gut microbes haven now been shown to regulate oxygen availability via butyrate production, thus protecting against the proliferation of pathogens such as E. coli and Salmonella. However, many microbial metabolites remain unidentified and their roles in obesity and diabetes remain to be determined.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tahli Singer-Englar
- a Medically Associated Science and Technology (MAST) Program , Cedars-Sinai Medical Center , Los Angeles , CA , USA
| | - Gillian Barlow
- a Medically Associated Science and Technology (MAST) Program , Cedars-Sinai Medical Center , Los Angeles , CA , USA
| | - Ruchi Mathur
- a Medically Associated Science and Technology (MAST) Program , Cedars-Sinai Medical Center , Los Angeles , CA , USA
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17
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Grande F, Rizzuti B, Occhiuzzi MA, Ioele G, Casacchia T, Gelmini F, Guzzi R, Garofalo A, Statti G. Identification by Molecular Docking ofHomoisoflavones from Leopoldia comosa as Ligands of Estrogen Receptors. Molecules 2018; 23:molecules23040894. [PMID: 29649162 PMCID: PMC6017050 DOI: 10.3390/molecules23040894] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2018] [Revised: 04/09/2018] [Accepted: 04/10/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The physiological responses to estrogen hormones are mediated within specific tissues by at least two distinct receptors, ERα and ERβ. Several natural and synthetic molecules show activity by interacting with these proteins. In particular, a number of vegetal compounds known as phytoestrogens shows estrogenic or anti-estrogenic activity. The majority of these compounds belongs to the isoflavones family and the most representative one, genistein, shows anti-proliferative effects on various hormone-sensitive cancer cells, including breast, ovarian and prostate cancer. In this work we describe the identification of structurally related homoisoflavones isolated from Leopoldia comosa (L.) Parl. (L. comosa), a perennial bulbous plant, potentially useful as hormonal substitutes or complements in cancer treatments. Two of these compounds have been selected as potential ligands of estrogen receptors (ERs) and the interaction with both isoforms of estrogen receptors have been investigated through molecular docking on their crystallographic structures. The results provide evidence of the binding of these compounds to the target receptors and their interactions with key residues of the active sites of the two proteins, and thus they could represent suitable leads for the development of novel tools for the dissection of ER signaling and the development of new pharmacological treatments in hormone-sensitive cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fedora Grande
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, Ampl. Polifunzionale, Via P. Bucci, 87036 Rende (CS), Italy.
| | - Bruno Rizzuti
- CNR-NANOTEC, Licryl-UOS Cosenza and CEMIF.Cal, Department of Physics, University of Calabria, Via P. Bucci, 87036 Rende (CS), Italy.
| | - Maria A Occhiuzzi
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, Ampl. Polifunzionale, Via P. Bucci, 87036 Rende (CS), Italy.
| | - Giuseppina Ioele
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, Ampl. Polifunzionale, Via P. Bucci, 87036 Rende (CS), Italy.
| | - Teresa Casacchia
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, Ampl. Polifunzionale, Via P. Bucci, 87036 Rende (CS), Italy.
| | - Fabrizio Gelmini
- Department of Environmental Science and Policy-ESP, University of Milan, Via Celoria 2, 20133 Milan, Italy.
| | - Rita Guzzi
- CNR-NANOTEC, Licryl-UOS Cosenza and CEMIF.Cal, Department of Physics, University of Calabria, Via P. Bucci, 87036 Rende (CS), Italy.
- Department of Physics, University of Calabria, Via P. Bucci, 87036 Rende (CS), Italy.
| | - Antonio Garofalo
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, Ampl. Polifunzionale, Via P. Bucci, 87036 Rende (CS), Italy.
| | - Giancarlo Statti
- Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, Ampl. Polifunzionale, Via P. Bucci, 87036 Rende (CS), Italy.
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