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Deng J, Wei RQ, Zhang WM, Shi CY, Yang R, Jin M, Piao C. Crocin's role in modulating MMP2/TIMP1 and mitigating hypoxia-induced pulmonary hypertension in mice. Sci Rep 2024; 14:12716. [PMID: 38830933 PMCID: PMC11148111 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-62900-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2024] [Accepted: 05/22/2024] [Indexed: 06/05/2024] Open
Abstract
To explore the molecular pathogenesis of pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) and identify potential therapeutic targets, we performed transcriptome sequencing of lung tissue from mice with hypoxia-induced pulmonary hypertension. Our Gene Ontology analysis revealed that "extracellular matrix organization" ranked high in the biological process category, and matrix metallopeptidases (MMPs) and other proteases also played important roles in it. Moreover, compared with those in the normoxia group, we confirmed that MMPs expression was upregulated in the hypoxia group, while the hub gene Timp1 was downregulated. Crocin, a natural MMP inhibitor, was found to reduce inflammation, decrease MMPs levels, increase Timp1 expression levels, and attenuate hypoxia-induced pulmonary hypertension in mice. In addition, analysis of the cell distribution of MMPs and Timp1 in the human lung cell atlas using single-cell RNAseq datasets revealed that MMPs and Timp1 are mainly expressed in a population of fibroblasts. Moreover, in vitro experiments revealed that crocin significantly inhibited myofibroblast proliferation, migration, and extracellular matrix deposition. Furthermore, we demonstrated that crocin inhibited TGF-β1-induced fibroblast activation and regulated the pulmonary arterial fibroblast MMP2/TIMP1 balance by inhibiting the TGF-β1/Smad3 signaling pathway. In summary, our results indicate that crocin attenuates hypoxia-induced pulmonary hypertension in mice by inhibiting TGF-β1-induced myofibroblast activation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Deng
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Yanbian University, Yanji, 133000, China
| | - Rui-Qi Wei
- Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Beijing Chaoyang Hospital Affiliated to the Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100020, China
| | - Wen-Mei Zhang
- Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Beijing Anzhen Hospital Affiliated to the Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100029, China
| | - Chang-Yu Shi
- Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Beijing Chaoyang Hospital Affiliated to the Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100020, China
| | - Rui Yang
- Beijing Institute of Heart Lung and Blood Vessel Diseases, Beijing Anzhen Hospital Affiliated to the Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100029, China
| | - Ming Jin
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Yanbian University, Yanji, 133000, China.
| | - Chunmei Piao
- Beijing Institute of Heart Lung and Blood Vessel Diseases, Beijing Anzhen Hospital Affiliated to the Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100029, China.
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Yan X, Zhao S, Feng X, Li X, Zhou Q, Chen Q. Effects of Crocus sativus on glycemic control and cardiometabolic parameters among patients with metabolic syndrome and related disorders: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. Nutr Metab (Lond) 2024; 21:28. [PMID: 38796446 PMCID: PMC11127410 DOI: 10.1186/s12986-024-00806-y] [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: 02/11/2024] [Accepted: 05/13/2024] [Indexed: 05/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Metabolic syndrome (MetS) is a cluster of clinical syndromes that is closely associated with an elevated risk of developing atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease. In a series of animal experiments and clinical trials, crocus sativus and its component crocin have demonstrated promising hypoglycemic effects. However, there is currently insufficient evidence regarding their impact on cardiometabolic parameters. Our study aimed to assess the impact of Crocus sativus and crocin on glycemic control in individuals with metabolic syndrome and associated disorders, as well as their potential effects on improving cardiometabolic parameters. We searched Cochrane Library, PubMed, Embase, and Web of Science databases to ascertain the pertinent randomized controlled trials (RCTs) until December 30, 2023. Q-test and I2 statistics were utilized to evaluate heterogeneity among the included studies. Data were merged using a random-effects model and presented as (WMD) with a 95% confidence interval (CI). The current comprehensive review and meta-analysis, encompassing 13 RCTs involving a total of 840 patients diagnosed with metabolic syndrome and associated disorders, demonstrates that Crocus sativus was superior to placebo on Hemoglobin A1c(HbA1c) (WMD: -0.31;95% CI [-0.44,-0.19]. P = 0.002) and systolic blood pressure(SBP) (WMD:-7.49;95% CI [-11.67,-3.30]. P = 0.99) respectively. Moreover, Crocus sativus improved fasting blood glucose (FBG) (WMD:-7.25;95% CI [-11.82, -2.57]. P = 0.002) when used crocin and on other chronic diseases. Crocus sativus reduced the total cholesterol (TC) among the metabolic syndromepatients (WMD:-13.64;95%CI [-26.26, -1.03]. P = 0.03). We demonstrated that Crocus sativus exerts beneficial effects on glycemic control and cardiometabolic parameters in individuals with metabolic syndrome and related disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaodan Yan
- Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 610032, China
| | - Shuyuan Zhao
- Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 610032, China
| | - Xue Feng
- Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 610032, China
| | - Xinrui Li
- Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 610032, China
| | - Qian Zhou
- Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 610032, China
| | - Qiu Chen
- Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, 610032, China.
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Qi S, Zeng T, Sun L, Yin M, Wu P, Ma P, Xu L, Xiao P. The effect of vine tea (Ampelopsis grossedentata) extract on fatigue alleviation via improving muscle mass. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2024; 325:117810. [PMID: 38266948 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2024.117810] [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: 09/05/2023] [Revised: 01/11/2024] [Accepted: 01/20/2024] [Indexed: 01/26/2024]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Vine Tea (VT, Ampelopsis grossedentata), boasts a venerable tradition in China, with a recorded consumption history exceeding 1200 years. Predominantly utilized by ethnic groups in southwest China, this herbal tea is celebrated for its multifaceted therapeutic attributes. Traditionally, VT has been employed to alleviate heat and remove toxins, exhibit anti-inflammatory properties, soothe sore throats, lower blood pressure, and fortify bones and muscles. In the realm of functional foods derived from plant resources, VT has garnered attention for its potential in crafting anti-fatigue beverages or foods, attributed to its promising efficacy and minimal side effects. Currently, in accordance with the Food Safety Standards set forth by the Monitoring and Evaluation Department of the National Health and Family Planning Commission in China, VT serves as a raw material in various beverages. AIM OF THE STUDY VT has an anti-fatigue or similar effect in folk. However, the underlying molecular mechanisms contributing to VT's anti-fatigue effects remain elusive. This study endeavors to investigate the influence of Vine Tea Aqueous Extract (VTE) on fatigue mitigation and to elucidate its operative mechanisms, with the objective of developing VTE as a functional beverage. MATERIALS AND METHODS The preparation of VTE involved heat extraction and freeze-drying processes, followed by the identification of its metabolites using UPLC-QTOF-MS to ascertain the chemical composition of VTE. A fatigue model was established using a forced swimming test in mice. Potential molecular targets were identified through network pharmacology, transcriptome analysis, and molecular docking. Furthermore, RT-PCR and Western blot techniques were employed to assess mRNA and protein expressions related to the AMPK and FoxO pathways. RESULTS VTE significantly prolonged the duration of swimming time in an exhaustive swimming test in a dose-dependent manner, while simultaneously reducing the concentrations of blood lactic acid (LA), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), serum urea nitrogen (SUN), and creatine kinase (CK). Notably, the performance of the high-dose VTE group surpassed that of the well-recognized ginsenoside. VTE demonstrated a regulatory effect akin to ginsenoside on the AMPK energy metabolism pathway and induced downregulation in the expression of Gadd45α, Cdkn1a, FOXO1, and Fbxo32 genes, suggesting an enhancement in skeletal muscle mass. These findings indicate that VTE can improve energy metabolism and muscle mass concurrently. CONCLUSIONS VTE exhibits significant anti-fatigue effects, and its mechanism is intricately linked to the modulation of the AMPK and FoxO pathways. Crucially, no caffeine or other addictive substances with known side effects were detected in VTE. Consequently, vine tea shows substantial promise as a natural resource for the development of anti-fatigue beverages within the food industry.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shunyao Qi
- Institute of Medicinal Plant Development, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Tiexin Zeng
- Institute of Medicinal Plant Development, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Le Sun
- Institute of Medicinal Plant Development, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Meiling Yin
- Institute of Medicinal Plant Development, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Peiling Wu
- Institute of Medicinal Plant Development, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Pei Ma
- Institute of Medicinal Plant Development, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Lijia Xu
- Institute of Medicinal Plant Development, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China.
| | - Peigen Xiao
- Institute of Medicinal Plant Development, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China.
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Chen J, Tao Y, Yang S, Jiang F, Zhou G, Qian X, Zhu Y, Li L. A rapid and sensitive ultra-performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry method for determination of phytohormones in the medicinal plant saffron. ANALYTICAL METHODS : ADVANCING METHODS AND APPLICATIONS 2024; 16:1347-1356. [PMID: 38334707 DOI: 10.1039/d4ay00067f] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/10/2024]
Abstract
Saffron (Crocus sativus L.) is a valuable Chinese herb with high medicinal value. Saffron pistils are used as medicine, so increasing the number of flowers can increase the yield. Plant hormones have essential roles in the growth and development of saffron, as well as the response to biotic and abiotic stresses (especially in floral initiation), which may directly affect the number of flowers. Quantitative analysis of plant hormones provides a basis for more efficient research on their synthesis, transportation, metabolism, and action. However, starch (which interferes with extraction) is present in high levels, and hormone levels are extremely low, in saffron corms, thereby hampering accurate determination of plant-hormone levels in saffron. Herein, we screened an efficient and convenient pre-treatment method for plant materials containing abundant amounts of starch. Also, we proposed an ultra-performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (UPLC-MS/MS) method for the quantification of abscisic acid (ABA) and auxin (IAA). Then, the method was applied for the detection of hormone-content differences between flowering and non-flowering top buds, as well as between lateral and top buds. Our method showed high sensitivity, reproducibility, and reliability. Specifically, good linearity in the range 2-100 ng ml-1 was achieved in the determination of ABA and IAA, and the correlation coefficient (R2) was >0.9982. The relative standard deviation was 2.956-14.51% (intraday) and 9.57-18.99% (interday), and the recovery range was 89.04-101.1% (n = 9). The matrix effect was 80.38-90.50% (n = 3). The method was thoroughly assessed employing various "green" chemistry evaluation tools: Blue Applicability Grade Index (BAGI), Complementary Green Analytical Procedure Index (Complex GAPI) and Red Green Blue 12 Algorithm (RGB12). These tools revealed the good greenness, analytical performance, applicability, and overall sustainability alignment of our method. Quantitative results showed that, compared with saffron with a flowering phenotype cultivated at 25 °C, the contents of IAA and ABA in the terminal buds of saffron cultivated at 16 °C decreased significantly. When cultivated at 25 °C, the IAA and ABA contents in the terminal buds of saffron were 1.54- and 4.84-times higher than those in the lateral buds, respectively. A simple, rapid, and accurate UPLC-MS/MS method was established to determine IAA and ABA contents. Using this method, a connection between the contents of IAA and ABA and the flowering phenotype was observed in the quantification results. Our data lay a foundation for studying the flowering mechanism of saffron.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Chen
- TCM Key Laboratory Cultivation Base of Zhejiang Province for the Development and Clinical Transformation of Immunomodulatory Drugs, Huzhou Central Hospital, Affiliated Central Hospital HuZhou University, Huzhou Hospital, Zhejiang University, Huzhou, China.
| | - Yuanyuan Tao
- TCM Key Laboratory Cultivation Base of Zhejiang Province for the Development and Clinical Transformation of Immunomodulatory Drugs, Huzhou Central Hospital, Affiliated Central Hospital HuZhou University, Huzhou Hospital, Zhejiang University, Huzhou, China.
| | - Shuhui Yang
- TCM Key Laboratory Cultivation Base of Zhejiang Province for the Development and Clinical Transformation of Immunomodulatory Drugs, Huzhou Central Hospital, Affiliated Central Hospital HuZhou University, Huzhou Hospital, Zhejiang University, Huzhou, China.
| | - Fengqin Jiang
- TCM Key Laboratory Cultivation Base of Zhejiang Province for the Development and Clinical Transformation of Immunomodulatory Drugs, Huzhou Central Hospital, Affiliated Central Hospital HuZhou University, Huzhou Hospital, Zhejiang University, Huzhou, China.
| | - Guifen Zhou
- Department of Chinese Medicine, Zhejiang University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Xiaodong Qian
- TCM Key Laboratory Cultivation Base of Zhejiang Province for the Development and Clinical Transformation of Immunomodulatory Drugs, Huzhou Central Hospital, Affiliated Central Hospital HuZhou University, Huzhou Hospital, Zhejiang University, Huzhou, China.
| | - Yuehong Zhu
- TCM Key Laboratory Cultivation Base of Zhejiang Province for the Development and Clinical Transformation of Immunomodulatory Drugs, Huzhou Central Hospital, Affiliated Central Hospital HuZhou University, Huzhou Hospital, Zhejiang University, Huzhou, China.
| | - Liqin Li
- TCM Key Laboratory Cultivation Base of Zhejiang Province for the Development and Clinical Transformation of Immunomodulatory Drugs, Huzhou Central Hospital, Affiliated Central Hospital HuZhou University, Huzhou Hospital, Zhejiang University, Huzhou, China.
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Abd Rahim IN, Mohd Kasim NA, Omar E, Abdul Muid S, Nawawi H. Safety evaluation of saffron extracts in early and established atherosclerotic New Zealand white rabbits. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0295212. [PMID: 38207245 PMCID: PMC10783933 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0295212] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2023] [Accepted: 11/17/2023] [Indexed: 01/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Previous research has shown that natural medications pose health risks, especially in subjects with comorbidities. This study aimed to evaluate the safety of saffron ethanolic extract (SEE) administration in early and established atherosclerotic rabbits. Rabbits were given a high-cholesterol diet (HCD) for 4 and 8 weeks to induce early and established atherosclerosis respectively, and then they were treated with 50 and 100 mg/kg/day SEE. The body weight of the animals was recorded. Blood samples were collected at baseline, pre-treatment, and post-treatment for hematological studies, lipid profiles, and biochemical profiles. Tissue specimens of the vital organs were subjected to histological examination. The above parameters were significantly altered post-intervention with 4 and 8 weeks of HCD. No significant differences in body weight were observed in all the groups post-treatment with 50 and 100mg/kg of SEE compared to pre-treatment. However, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, total cholesterol, serum urea, and glucose significantly decreased post-treatment with 50 and 100mg/kg/day SEE compared to pre-treatment in early and established atherosclerosis groups. Hematological parameters that were affected post-intervention with HCD returned to their baseline values post-treatment with 50 and 100mg/kg/day SEE. There was a significant improvement in the vital organs post-treatment with 50 and 100mg/kg SEE. SEE can safely be administered without causing harmful effects on the hematological, biochemical profiles, and vital organs. Notably, SEE exerts hypolipidemic and hypoglycemic effects on atherosclerotic conditions. Further clinical trials are warranted to ensure the safety of saffron administration in patients with atherosclerosis-related diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Iman Nabilah Abd Rahim
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Teknologi MARA, Sungai Buloh, Selangor, Malaysia
- Institute of Pathology, Laboratory and Forensic Medicine (I-PPerForM), Universiti Teknologi MARA, Sungai Buloh, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Noor Alicezah Mohd Kasim
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Teknologi MARA, Sungai Buloh, Selangor, Malaysia
- Institute of Pathology, Laboratory and Forensic Medicine (I-PPerForM), Universiti Teknologi MARA, Sungai Buloh, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Effat Omar
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Teknologi MARA, Sungai Buloh, Selangor, Malaysia
- Institute of Pathology, Laboratory and Forensic Medicine (I-PPerForM), Universiti Teknologi MARA, Sungai Buloh, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Suhaila Abdul Muid
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Teknologi MARA, Sungai Buloh, Selangor, Malaysia
- Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Teknologi MARA, Sungai Buloh, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Hapizah Nawawi
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Teknologi MARA, Sungai Buloh, Selangor, Malaysia
- Institute of Pathology, Laboratory and Forensic Medicine (I-PPerForM), Universiti Teknologi MARA, Sungai Buloh, Selangor, Malaysia
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De la Fuente Muñoz M, Román-Carmena M, Amor S, García-Villalón ÁL, Espinel AE, González-Hedström D, Granado García M. Effects of Supplementation with the Standardized Extract of Saffron (affron ®) on the Kynurenine Pathway and Melatonin Synthesis in Rats. Antioxidants (Basel) 2023; 12:1619. [PMID: 37627614 PMCID: PMC10451224 DOI: 10.3390/antiox12081619] [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: 07/17/2023] [Revised: 08/08/2023] [Accepted: 08/11/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Melatonin is a hormone that regulates sleep-wake cycles and is mainly synthesized in the pineal gland from tryptophan after its conversion into serotonin. Under normal conditions, less than 5% of tryptophan is reserved for the synthesis of serotonin and melatonin. The remaining 95% is metabolized in the liver through the kynurenine pathway. Increased levels of proinflammatory cytokines and cortisol increase the metabolism of tryptophan through the kynurenine pathway and reduce its availability for the synthesis of melatonin and serotonin, which may cause alterations in mood and sleep. The standardized saffron extract (affron®) has shown beneficial effects on mood and sleep disorders in humans, but the underlying mechanisms are not well understood. Thus, the aim of this work was to study the effects of affron® supplementation on the kynurenine pathway and the synthesis of melatonin in rats. For this purpose, adult male Wistar rats were supplemented for 7 days with 150 mg/kg of affron® or vehicle (2 mL/kg water) administered by gavage one hour before sleep. Affron® supplementation reduced body weight gain and increased the circulating levels of melatonin, testosterone, and c-HDL. Moreover, animals supplemented with affron® showed decreased serum levels of kynurenine, ET-1, and c-LDL. In the pineal gland, affron® reduced Il-6 expression and increased the expression of Aanat, the key enzyme for melatonin synthesis. In the liver, affron® administration decreased the mRNA levels of the enzymes of the kynurenine pathway Ido-2, Tod-2, and Aadat, as well as the gene expression of Il-1β and Tnf-α. Finally, rats treated with affron® showed increased mRNA levels of the antioxidant enzymes Ho-1, Sod-1, Gsr, and Gpx-3, both in the liver and in the pineal gland. In conclusion, affron® supplementation reduces kynurenine levels and promotes melatonin synthesis in rats, possibly through its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, making this extract a possible alternative for the treatment and/or prevention of mood and sleep disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mario De la Fuente Muñoz
- Departamento de Fisiología, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, 28029 Madrid, Spain; (M.D.l.F.M.); (M.R.-C.); (S.A.); (Á.L.G.-V.)
| | - Marta Román-Carmena
- Departamento de Fisiología, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, 28029 Madrid, Spain; (M.D.l.F.M.); (M.R.-C.); (S.A.); (Á.L.G.-V.)
| | - Sara Amor
- Departamento de Fisiología, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, 28029 Madrid, Spain; (M.D.l.F.M.); (M.R.-C.); (S.A.); (Á.L.G.-V.)
| | - Ángel Luís García-Villalón
- Departamento de Fisiología, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, 28029 Madrid, Spain; (M.D.l.F.M.); (M.R.-C.); (S.A.); (Á.L.G.-V.)
| | - Alberto E. Espinel
- Pharmactive Biotech Products S.L.U., Parque Científico de Madrid, Avenida del Doctor Severo Ochoa, 37 Local 4J, 28108 Alcobendas, Spain; (A.E.E.); (D.G.-H.)
| | - Daniel González-Hedström
- Pharmactive Biotech Products S.L.U., Parque Científico de Madrid, Avenida del Doctor Severo Ochoa, 37 Local 4J, 28108 Alcobendas, Spain; (A.E.E.); (D.G.-H.)
| | - Miriam Granado García
- Departamento de Fisiología, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, 28029 Madrid, Spain; (M.D.l.F.M.); (M.R.-C.); (S.A.); (Á.L.G.-V.)
- CIBER Fisiopatología de la Obesidad y Nutrición, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 28029 Madrid, Spain
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Anaeigoudari F, Anaeigoudari A, Kheirkhah‐Vakilabad A. A review of therapeutic impacts of saffron (Crocus sativus L.) and its constituents. Physiol Rep 2023; 11:e15785. [PMID: 37537722 PMCID: PMC10400758 DOI: 10.14814/phy2.15785] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2023] [Revised: 07/18/2023] [Accepted: 07/19/2023] [Indexed: 08/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Application of herbal medicines in the treatment of diseases is in the center of attention of medical scientific societies. Saffron (Cricus sativus L.) is a medicinal plant belonging to the Iridaceae family with different therapeutic properties. The outcomes of human and animal experiments indicate that therapeutic impacts of saffron and its constituents, crocin, crocetin, and safranal, mainly are mediated via inhibiting the inflammatory reactions and scavenging free radicals. It has been suggested that saffron and crocin extracted from it also up-regulate the expression of sirtuin 1 (SIRT1) and nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2), down-regulate nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) signaling pathway and untimely improve the body organs dysfunction. Inhibition of inducible nitric oxide synthase and cyclooxygenase-2 (COX2) also is attributed to crocin. The current review narrates the therapeutic effects of saffron and its constituents on various body systems through looking for the scientific databases including Web of Science, PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar from the beginning of 2010 until the end of 2022.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fatemeh Anaeigoudari
- Student Research Committee, Afzalipour Faculty of MedicineKerman University of Medical SciencesKermanIran
| | - Akbar Anaeigoudari
- Department of Physiology, School of MedicineJiroft University of Medical SciencesJiroftIran
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Sanaie S, Nikanfar S, Kalekhane ZY, Azizi-Zeinalhajlou A, Sadigh-Eteghad S, Araj-Khodaei M, Ayati MH, Andalib S. Saffron as a promising therapy for diabetes and Alzheimer's disease: mechanistic insights. Metab Brain Dis 2023; 38:137-162. [PMID: 35986812 DOI: 10.1007/s11011-022-01059-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2022] [Accepted: 07/29/2022] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
The prevalence of both Alzheimer's disease (AD) and diabetes mellitus is increasing with the societies' aging and has become an essential social concern worldwide. Accumulation of amyloid plaques and neurofibrillary tangles (NFTs) of tau proteins in the brain are hallmarks of AD. Diabetes is an underlying risk factor for AD. Insulin resistance has been proposed to be involved in amyloid-beta (Aβ) aggregation in the brain. It seems that diabetic conditions can result in AD pathology by setting off a cascade of processes, including inflammation, mitochondrial dysfunction, and ROS and advanced glycation end products (AGEs) synthesis. Due to the several side effects of chemical drugs and their high cost, using herbal medicine has recently attracted attention for the treatment of diabetes and AD. Saffron and its active ingredients have been used for its anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant, anti-diabetic, and anti-AD properties. Therefore, in the present review paper, we take account of the clinical, in vivo and in vitro evidence regarding the anti-diabetic and anti-AD effects of saffron and discuss the preventive or postponing properties of saffron or its components on AD development via its anti-diabetic effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarvin Sanaie
- Research Center for Integrative Medicine in Aging, Aging Research Institute, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Saba Nikanfar
- Department of Biochemistry and Clinical Laboratories, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Zahra Yousefi Kalekhane
- Research Center of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Aging Research Institute, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
- Department of Psychology, Faculty of Educational Sciences and Psychology, University of Tabriz, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Akbar Azizi-Zeinalhajlou
- Student Research Committee, Aging Research Institute, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
- Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Research Center, Aging Research Institute, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Saeed Sadigh-Eteghad
- Neurosciences Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Mostafa Araj-Khodaei
- Research Center for Integrative Medicine in Aging, Aging Research Institute, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.
- Department of Persian Medicine, School of Traditional Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.
| | - Mohammad Hossein Ayati
- Research Center for Integrative Medicine in Aging, Aging Research Institute, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.
- Department of Traditional Medicine, School of Persian Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Sasan Andalib
- Research Unit of Clinical Physiology and Nuclear Medicine, Department of Clinical Research, Odense University Hospital, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
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Saffron, Its Active Components, and Their Association with DNA and Histone Modification: A Narrative Review of Current Knowledge. Nutrients 2022; 14:nu14163317. [PMID: 36014823 PMCID: PMC9414768 DOI: 10.3390/nu14163317] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2022] [Revised: 08/02/2022] [Accepted: 08/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Intensive screening for better and safer medications to treat diseases such as cancer and inflammatory diseases continue, and some phytochemicals have been discovered to have anti-cancer and many therapeutical activities. Among the traditionally used spices, Crocus sativus (saffron) and its principal bioactive constituents have anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and chemopreventive properties against multiple malignancies. Early reports have shown that the epigenetic profiles of healthy and tumor cells vary significantly in the context of different epigenetic factors. Multiple components, such as carotenoids as bioactive dietary phytochemicals, can directly or indirectly regulate epigenetic factors and alter gene expression profiles. Previous reports have shown the interaction between active saffron compounds with linker histone H1. Other reports have shown that high concentrations of saffron bind to the minor groove of calf thymus DNA, resulting in specific structural changes from B- to C-form of DNA. Moreover, the interaction of crocin G-quadruplex was reported. A recent in silico study has shown that residues of SIRT1 interact with saffron bio-active compounds and might enhance SIRT1 activation. Other reports have shown that the treatment of Saffron bio-active compounds increases γH2AX, decreases HDAC1 and phosphorylated histone H3 (p-H3). However, the question that still remains to be addressed how saffron triggers various epigenetic changes? Therefore, this review discusses the literature published till 2022 regarding saffron as dietary components and its impact on epigenetic mechanisms. Novel bioactive compounds such as saffron components that lead to epigenetic alterations might be a valuable strategy as an adjuvant therapeutic drug.
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Makaritsis KP, Kotidis C, Papacharalampous K, Kouvaras E, Poulakida E, Tarantilis P, Asprodini E, Ntaios G, Koukoulis GΚ, Dalekos GΝ, Ioannou M. Mechanistic insights on the effect of crocin, an active ingredient of saffron, on atherosclerosis in apolipoprotein E knockout mice. Coron Artery Dis 2022; 33:394-402. [PMID: 35880561 DOI: 10.1097/mca.0000000000001142] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND We investigated the effect of crocin treatment on atherosclerosis and serum lipids in apolipoprotein E knockout (ApoE-/-) mice, focusing on the expression of endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) and hypoxia-induced factor-1 alpha (HIF-1α). METHODS Sixty-two animals were divided into two groups and randomly allocated to crocin (100 mg/kg/day) in drinking water or no crocin. All mice were maintained on standard chow diet containing 5% fat. Crocin was initiated at the 16th week of age and continued for 16 additional weeks. At 32 weeks of age, after blood sampling for plasma lipid determination and euthanasia, proximal aorta was removed and 3 μm sections were used to measure the atherosclerotic area and determine the expression of eNOS and HIF-1α by immunohistochemistry. RESULTS Each group consisted of 31 animals (17 males and 14 females in each group). Crocin significantly reduced the atherosclerotic area (mm2 ± SEM) in treated mice compared to controls, both in males (0.0798 ± 0.017 vs. 0.1918 ± 0.028, P < 0.002, respectively) and females (0.0986 ± 0.023 vs. 0.1765 ± 0.025, P < 0.03, respectively). eNOS expression was significantly increased in crocin-treated mice compared to controls, both in males (2.77 ± 0.24 vs. 1.50 ± 0.34, P=0.004, respectively) and females (3.41 ± 0.37 vs. 1.16 ± 0.44, P=0.003, respectively). HIF-1α expression was significantly decreased in crocin-treated mice compared to controls, both in males (21.25 ± 2.14 vs. 156.5 ± 6.67, P < 0.001, respectively) and females (35.3 ± 7.20 vs. 113.3 ± 9.0, P < 0.01, respectively). No difference was noticed in total, low- and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol between treated and control mice. CONCLUSION Crocin reduces atherosclerosis possibly by modulation of eNOS and HIF-1α expression in ApoE-/- mice without affecting plasma cholesterol.
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Affiliation(s)
- Konstantinos P Makaritsis
- Department of Medicine & Research Laboratory of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Thessaly, National Expertise Center of Greece in Autoimmune Liver Diseases, General University Hospital of Larissa, Larissa, Greece
| | - Charalampos Kotidis
- Department of Medicine & Research Laboratory of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Thessaly, National Expertise Center of Greece in Autoimmune Liver Diseases, General University Hospital of Larissa, Larissa, Greece
- East Midlands Congenital Heart Centre, University Hospitals of Leicester, Leicester, UK
| | | | - Evangelos Kouvaras
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Thessaly, Larissa
| | - Eirini Poulakida
- Department of Medicine & Research Laboratory of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Thessaly, National Expertise Center of Greece in Autoimmune Liver Diseases, General University Hospital of Larissa, Larissa, Greece
| | - Petros Tarantilis
- Laboratory of Chemistry, Department of Food Science & Human Nutrition, School of Food Biotechnology and Development, Agricultural University of Athens, Athens
| | - Eftichia Asprodini
- Laboratory of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
| | - George Ntaios
- Department of Medicine & Research Laboratory of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Thessaly, National Expertise Center of Greece in Autoimmune Liver Diseases, General University Hospital of Larissa, Larissa, Greece
| | - George Κ Koukoulis
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Thessaly, Larissa
| | - George Ν Dalekos
- Department of Medicine & Research Laboratory of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Thessaly, National Expertise Center of Greece in Autoimmune Liver Diseases, General University Hospital of Larissa, Larissa, Greece
| | - Maria Ioannou
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Thessaly, Larissa
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Yousefi-Manesh H, Aghamollaei H, Dehpour AR, Sheibani M, Tavangar SM, Bagheri M, Shirooie S, Daryabari SH, Noori T. The role of saffron in improvement of ocular surface disease in a mouse model of Lacrimal Gland Excision-induced dry eye disease. Exp Eye Res 2022; 221:109127. [DOI: 10.1016/j.exer.2022.109127] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2021] [Revised: 05/17/2022] [Accepted: 05/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
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Scuto M, Modafferi S, Rampulla F, Zimbone V, Tomasello M, Spano’ S, Ontario M, Palmeri A, Trovato Salinaro A, Siracusa R, Di Paola R, Cuzzocrea S, Calabrese E, Wenzel U, Calabrese V. Redox modulation of stress resilience by Crocus Sativus L. for potential neuroprotective and anti-neuroinflammatory applications in brain disorders: From molecular basis to therapy. Mech Ageing Dev 2022; 205:111686. [DOI: 10.1016/j.mad.2022.111686] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2022] [Revised: 05/18/2022] [Accepted: 05/18/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
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Crocetin exerts hypocholesterolemic effect by inducing LDLR and inhibiting PCSK9 and Sortilin in HepG2 cells. Nutr Res 2022; 98:41-49. [DOI: 10.1016/j.nutres.2021.08.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2021] [Revised: 08/30/2021] [Accepted: 08/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
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El Midaoui A, Ghzaiel I, Vervandier-Fasseur D, Ksila M, Zarrouk A, Nury T, Khallouki F, El Hessni A, Ibrahimi SO, Latruffe N, Couture R, Kharoubi O, Brahmi F, Hammami S, Masmoudi-Kouki O, Hammami M, Ghrairi T, Vejux A, Lizard G. Saffron (Crocus sativus L.): A Source of Nutrients for Health and for the Treatment of Neuropsychiatric and Age-Related Diseases. Nutrients 2022; 14:nu14030597. [PMID: 35276955 PMCID: PMC8839854 DOI: 10.3390/nu14030597] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2022] [Revised: 01/25/2022] [Accepted: 01/27/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Saffron (Crocus sativus L.) is a medicinal plant, originally cultivated in the East and Middle East, and later in some Mediterranean countries. Saffron is obtained from the stigmas of the plant. Currently, the use of saffron is undergoing a revival. The medicinal virtues of saffron, its culinary use and its high added value have led to the clarification of its phytochemical profile and its biological and therapeutic characteristics. Saffron is rich in carotenoids and terpenes. The major products of saffron are crocins and crocetin (carotenoids) deriving from zeaxanthin, pirocrocin and safranal, which give it its taste and aroma, respectively. Saffron and its major compounds have powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties in vitro and in vivo. Anti-tumor properties have also been described. The goal of this review is to present the beneficial effects of saffron and its main constituent molecules on neuropsychiatric diseases (depression, anxiety and schizophrenia) as well as on the most frequent age-related diseases (cardiovascular, ocular and neurodegenerative diseases, as well as sarcopenia). Overall, the phytochemical profile of saffron confers many beneficial virtues on human health and, in particular, on the prevention of age-related diseases, which is a major asset reinforcing the interest for this medicinal plant.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adil El Midaoui
- Department of Pharmacology and Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Montreal, Montreal, QC H3C 3J7, Canada;
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences and Techniques Errachidia, Moulay Ismail University of Meknes, Errachidia 52000, Morocco;
- Laboratory of Genetics, Neuroendocrinology, and Biotechnology, Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, Ibn Tofail University, Kenitra 14020, Morocco; (A.E.H.); (S.O.I.)
- Correspondence: (A.E.M.); (G.L.); Tel.: +1-514-343-6111 (ext. 3320) (A.E.M.); +33-3-80-39-62-56 (G.L.)
| | - Imen Ghzaiel
- Team ‘Biochemistry of the Peroxisome, Inflammation and Lipid Metabolism’, University of Bourgogne Franche-Comte, 21000 Dijon, France; (I.G.); (M.K.); (T.N.); (N.L.); (A.V.)
- Lab-NAFS ‘Nutritio—Functional Food & Vascular Health’, Faculty of Medicine, LR12ES05, University Monastir, Monastir 5000, Tunisia; (A.Z.); (S.H.); (M.H.)
| | - Dominique Vervandier-Fasseur
- Team OCS, Institute of Molecular Chemistry (ICMUB UMR CNRS 6302), University of Bourgogne Franche-Comte, 21000 Dijon, France;
| | - Mohamed Ksila
- Team ‘Biochemistry of the Peroxisome, Inflammation and Lipid Metabolism’, University of Bourgogne Franche-Comte, 21000 Dijon, France; (I.G.); (M.K.); (T.N.); (N.L.); (A.V.)
- Laboratory Neurophysiology, Cellular Physiopathology and Valorisation of Biomolecules, (LR18ES03), Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, University Tunis El Manar, Tunis 2092, Tunisia; (O.M.-K.); (T.G.)
| | - Amira Zarrouk
- Lab-NAFS ‘Nutritio—Functional Food & Vascular Health’, Faculty of Medicine, LR12ES05, University Monastir, Monastir 5000, Tunisia; (A.Z.); (S.H.); (M.H.)
- Laboratory of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, University of Sousse, Sousse 4000, Tunisia
| | - Thomas Nury
- Team ‘Biochemistry of the Peroxisome, Inflammation and Lipid Metabolism’, University of Bourgogne Franche-Comte, 21000 Dijon, France; (I.G.); (M.K.); (T.N.); (N.L.); (A.V.)
| | - Farid Khallouki
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences and Techniques Errachidia, Moulay Ismail University of Meknes, Errachidia 52000, Morocco;
| | - Aboubaker El Hessni
- Laboratory of Genetics, Neuroendocrinology, and Biotechnology, Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, Ibn Tofail University, Kenitra 14020, Morocco; (A.E.H.); (S.O.I.)
| | - Salama Ouazzani Ibrahimi
- Laboratory of Genetics, Neuroendocrinology, and Biotechnology, Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, Ibn Tofail University, Kenitra 14020, Morocco; (A.E.H.); (S.O.I.)
| | - Norbert Latruffe
- Team ‘Biochemistry of the Peroxisome, Inflammation and Lipid Metabolism’, University of Bourgogne Franche-Comte, 21000 Dijon, France; (I.G.); (M.K.); (T.N.); (N.L.); (A.V.)
| | - Réjean Couture
- Department of Pharmacology and Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Montreal, Montreal, QC H3C 3J7, Canada;
| | - Omar Kharoubi
- Laboratory of Experimental Biotoxicology, Biodepollution and Phytoremediation, Faculty of Life and Natural Sciences, University Oran1 ABB, Oran 31000, Algeria;
| | - Fatiha Brahmi
- Laboratory Biomathématique, Biochimie, Biophysique et Scientométrie, Faculté des Sciences de la Nature et de la Vie, Université de Bejaia, Bejaia 06000, Algeria;
| | - Sonia Hammami
- Lab-NAFS ‘Nutritio—Functional Food & Vascular Health’, Faculty of Medicine, LR12ES05, University Monastir, Monastir 5000, Tunisia; (A.Z.); (S.H.); (M.H.)
| | - Olfa Masmoudi-Kouki
- Laboratory Neurophysiology, Cellular Physiopathology and Valorisation of Biomolecules, (LR18ES03), Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, University Tunis El Manar, Tunis 2092, Tunisia; (O.M.-K.); (T.G.)
| | - Mohamed Hammami
- Lab-NAFS ‘Nutritio—Functional Food & Vascular Health’, Faculty of Medicine, LR12ES05, University Monastir, Monastir 5000, Tunisia; (A.Z.); (S.H.); (M.H.)
| | - Taoufik Ghrairi
- Laboratory Neurophysiology, Cellular Physiopathology and Valorisation of Biomolecules, (LR18ES03), Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, University Tunis El Manar, Tunis 2092, Tunisia; (O.M.-K.); (T.G.)
| | - Anne Vejux
- Team ‘Biochemistry of the Peroxisome, Inflammation and Lipid Metabolism’, University of Bourgogne Franche-Comte, 21000 Dijon, France; (I.G.); (M.K.); (T.N.); (N.L.); (A.V.)
| | - Gérard Lizard
- Team ‘Biochemistry of the Peroxisome, Inflammation and Lipid Metabolism’, University of Bourgogne Franche-Comte, 21000 Dijon, France; (I.G.); (M.K.); (T.N.); (N.L.); (A.V.)
- Correspondence: (A.E.M.); (G.L.); Tel.: +1-514-343-6111 (ext. 3320) (A.E.M.); +33-3-80-39-62-56 (G.L.)
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Moghadam BH, Rashidlamir A, Hosseini SRA, Gaeini AA, Kaviani M. The Effects of Saffron (Crocus sativus L.) in conjunction with Concurrent Training on body composition, glycemic status, and inflammatory markers in obese men with type 2 diabetes mellitus: a randomized double-blind clinical trial. Br J Clin Pharmacol 2022; 88:3256-3271. [PMID: 35001410 DOI: 10.1111/bcp.15222] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2021] [Revised: 11/09/2021] [Accepted: 12/05/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
AIM Chronic inflammation is one of the major challenges in the management of obesity and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Our primary aim was to assess the anti-inflammatory effects of Saffron (Crocus sativus L.) supplementation and concurrent training in obese men with T2DM. METHODS Sixty obese men with T2DM (age = 39 ± 5 years; body mass = 93.9 ± 6 kg) were randomly assigned to four groups; concurrent training + placebo (CT; n = 15), saffron supplementation (S; n = 15), concurrent training + saffron supplementation (CTS; n = 15), or control (CON; n = 15). The participants in the CT group performed concurrent training (resistance + aerobic) three times per week for 12 weeks and received daily one pill of placebo (maltodextrin); the participants in the S group supplemented with one pill of 100 mg of saffron daily, and the participants in the CTS group participated in both saffron and training intervention while CON group continued regular lifestyle (no training or no supplementation). Inflammatory markers, body composition (evaluated by a multi-frequency bioelectrical impedance device; Jawon X-Contact 356), and metabolic profile were evaluated before and after interventions. RESULTS All three interventions significantly (p<0.05) decreased TNF-α (CT = -4.22, S = -1.91, CTS = -9.69 pg/mL), hs-CRP (CT = -0.13, S = -0.1, CTS = -0.32 ng/mL), IL-6 (CT = -6.84, S = -6.36, CTS = -13.55 pg/mL), IL-1β (CT = -8.85, S = -6.46, CTS = -19.8 pg/mL), FBG (CT = -6.97, S = -2.45, CTS = -13.86 mg/dL), insulin (CT = -0.13, S = -0.03, CTS = -0.21 mU/L), HOMA-IR (CT = -0.12, S = -0.04, CTS = -0.21), HbA1c (CT = -0.17, S = -0.11, CTS = -0.26 %), and increased IL-10 (CT = 1.09, S= 0.53, CTS = 2.27 pg/mL) concentrations. There was a positive correlation between changes in BFP with hs-CRP, IL-6, IL-1β, and TNF-α, and IL-10 concentrations across the intervention groups. Additionally, significant differences were observed between the changes for all variables in the CTS group compared to CT, S, and CON groups (p<0.05) CONCLUSION: It seems that an interactive of saffron supplementation and concurrent training has more efficient effects on the anti-inflammatory status compared to the saffron supplementation or concurrent training alone.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Amir Rashidlamir
- Department of Exercise Physiology, Ferdowsi university of Mashhad, Mashhad, Iran
| | | | - Abbas Ali Gaeini
- Department of Exercise Physiology, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mojtaba Kaviani
- School of Nutrition and Dietetics, Acadia University, Wolfville, Nova Scotia, Canada
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Nasimi Doost Azgomi R, Karimi A, Zarshenas MM, Moini Jazani A. The mechanisms of saffron (Crocus sativus') on the inflammatory pathways of diabetes mellitus: A systematic review. Diabetes Metab Syndr 2022; 16:102365. [PMID: 34923214 DOI: 10.1016/j.dsx.2021.102365] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2021] [Revised: 11/23/2021] [Accepted: 12/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND and amis: Diabetes is one of the major medical problems, which can lead to damage to cells or organs in various parts of the body. Saffron as herbal medicine has contained several active ingredients, including safranal, flavonoids, crocetin, and crocin, which are effective in modulating oxidative stress and inflammation, which can play the main role in reducing the effects of diabetes. However, so far, the effect of saffron on diabetes inflammation has not been evaluated in the form of systematic review studies. The purpose of this systematic study was to evaluate the evidence obtained from in-vitro, animal, and clinical trials studies on the effects of saffron on inflammation in diabetes. METHODS The present systematic review was conducted according to the guidelines of the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA) statements. In this systematic review, databases such as Embase, Pubmed, SCOPUS, ProQuest, and sciences direct database were searched from the beginning to February 2021. All eligible in-vitro, animal and human studies that examined the effect of saffron on inflammatory factors in diabetes were published in the form of a full article in English. RESULTS In the end, only 20 of the 596 articles met the criteria for analysis. Of the 20 articles, 3 were in-vitro studies, 13 were animal studies, and 4 were human studies. CONCLUSION The findings of this systematic study (Except for two studies) suggest that saffron supplementation with potential anti-inflammatory properties may reduce the expression of the inflammatory pathway and the production of inflammatory products in diabetes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ramin Nasimi Doost Azgomi
- Traditional Medicine and Hydrotherapy Research Center, Ardabil University of Medical Sciences, Ardabil, Iran
| | - Arash Karimi
- Traditional Medicine and Hydrotherapy Research Center, Ardabil University of Medical Sciences, Ardabil, Iran; Department of Clinical Nutrition, Faculty of Nutrition and Food Science, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Mohammad Mahdi Zarshenas
- Traditional Medicine and Hydrotherapy Research Center, Ardabil University of Medical Sciences, Ardabil, Iran; Department of Phytopharmaceuticals (Traditional Pharmacy), School of Pharmacy, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Arezoo Moini Jazani
- Traditional Medicine and Hydrotherapy Research Center, Ardabil University of Medical Sciences, Ardabil, Iran.
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Intraperitoneal Lavage with Crocus sativus Prevents Postoperative-Induced Peritoneal Adhesion in a Rat Model: Evidence from Animal and Cellular Studies. OXIDATIVE MEDICINE AND CELLULAR LONGEVITY 2021; 2021:5945101. [PMID: 34956439 PMCID: PMC8702342 DOI: 10.1155/2021/5945101] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2021] [Revised: 11/15/2021] [Accepted: 11/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Postoperative peritoneal adhesions are considered the major complication following abdominal surgeries. The primary clinical complications of peritoneal adhesion are intestinal obstruction, infertility, pelvic pain, and postoperative mortality. In this study, regarding the anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities of Crocus sativus, we aimed to evaluate the effects of Crocus sativus on the prevention of postsurgical-induced peritoneal adhesion. Male Wistar-Albino rats were used to investigate the preventive effects of C. sativus extract (0.5%, 0.25% and 0.125% w/v) against postsurgical-induced peritoneal adhesion compared to pirfenidone (PFD, 7.5% w/v). We also investigated the protective effects of PFD (100 μg/ml) and C. sativus extract (100, 200, and 400 μg/ml) in TGF-β1-induced fibrotic macrophage polarization. The levels of cell proliferation and oxidative, antioxidative, inflammatory and anti-inflammatory, fibrosis, and angiogenesis biomarkers were evaluated both in vivo and in vitro models. C. sativus extract ameliorates postoperational-induced peritoneal adhesion development by attenuating oxidative stress [malondialdehyde (MDA)]; inflammatory mediators [interleukin- (IL-) 6, tumour necrosis factor- (TNF-) α, and prostaglandin E2 (PGE2)]; fibrosis [transforming growth factor- (TGF-) β1, IL-4, and plasminogen activator inhibitor (PAI)]; and angiogenesis [vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF)] markers, while propagating antioxidant [glutathione (GSH)], anti-inflammatory (IL-10), and fibrinolytic [tissue plasminogen activator (tPA)] markers and tPA/PAI ratio. In a cellular model, we revealed that the extract, without any toxicity, regulated the levels of cell proliferation and inflammatory (TNF-α), angiogenesis (VEGF), anti-inflammatory (IL-10), M1 [inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS)] and M2 [arginase-1 (Arg 1)] biomarkers, and iNOS/Arg-1 ratio towards antifibrotic M1 phenotype of macrophage, in a concentration-dependent manner. Taken together, the current study indicated that C. sativus reduces peritoneal adhesion formation by modulating the macrophage polarization from M2 towards M1 cells.
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Kadoglou NPE, Christodoulou E, Kostomitsopoulos N, Valsami G. The cardiovascular-protective properties of saffron and its potential pharmaceutical applications: A critical appraisal of the literature. Phytother Res 2021; 35:6735-6753. [PMID: 34448254 DOI: 10.1002/ptr.7260] [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: 03/07/2021] [Revised: 08/09/2021] [Accepted: 08/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Saffron, the dried stigma of Crocus sativus L., is used in traditional medicine for its healing properties and the treatment of various pathological conditions. The present literature review aimed to summarize and evaluate the preclinical and clinical data regarding the protective effects and mechanisms of saffron and its main components (crocin, crocetin, safranal) on cardiovascular risk factors and diseases. Many in vitro and animal studies have been conducted implicating antioxidant, hypolipidemic, anti-diabetic, and antiinflammatory impact of saffron and its constituents. Notably, there is evidence of direct atherosclerosis regression and stabilization in valid atherosclerosis-prone animal models. However, current clinical trials have shown mostly weak effects of saffron and its constituents on cardiovascular risk factors: (a) Modest lowering of fasting blood glucose, without significant reduction of HbA1c in type 2 diabetic patients, (b) moderate/controversial hypolipidemic effects, (c) negligible hypotensive effect, and (d) inconsistent modification of metabolic syndrome parameters. There are important drawbacks in clinical trial design, including the absence of pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic tests, the wide variance of doses and cohorts' characteristics, the small number of patients, the short duration. Therefore, large, properly designed, high-quality clinical trials, focusing on specific conditions are required to evaluate the biological/pharmacological activities and firmly establish the clinical efficacy of saffron and its possible therapeutic uses in cardiovascular diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Eirini Christodoulou
- Laboratory of Biopharmaceutics-Pharmacokinetics, Department of Pharmacy, School of Health Sciences, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Nikolaos Kostomitsopoulos
- Center of Clinical Experimental Surgery and Translational Research, Biomedical Research Foundation, Academy of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Georgia Valsami
- Laboratory of Biopharmaceutics-Pharmacokinetics, Department of Pharmacy, School of Health Sciences, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
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Chávez-Castillo M, Ortega Á, Duran P, Pirela D, Marquina M, Cano C, Salazar J, Gonzalez MC, Bermúdez V, Rojas-Quintero J, Velasco M. Phytotherapy for Cardiovascular Disease: A Bench-to-Bedside Approach. Curr Pharm Des 2021; 26:4410-4429. [PMID: 32310044 DOI: 10.2174/1381612826666200420160422] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2020] [Accepted: 04/13/2020] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
At present, cardiovascular disease (CVD) remains the leading cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide, and global trends suggest that this panorama will persist or worsen in the near future. Thus, optimization of treatment strategies and the introduction of novel therapeutic alternatives for CVD represent key objectives in contemporary biomedical research. In recent years, phytotherapy-defined as the therapeutic use of whole or minimally modified plant components-has ignited large scientific interest, with a resurgence of abundant investigation on a wide array of medicinal herbs (MH) for CVD and other conditions. Numerous MH have been observed to intervene in the pathophysiology of CVD via a myriad of molecular mechanisms, including antiinflammatory, anti-oxidant, and other beneficial properties, which translate into the amelioration of three essential aspects of the pathogenesis of CVD: Dyslipidemia, atherosclerosis, and hypertension. Although the preclinical data in this scenario is very rich, the true clinical impact of MH and their purported mechanisms of action is less clear, as large-scale robust research in this regard is in relatively early stages and faces important methodological challenges. This review offers a comprehensive look at the most prominent preclinical and clinical evidence currently available concerning the use of MH in the treatment of CVD from a bench-to-bedside approach.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mervin Chávez-Castillo
- Psychiatric Hospital of Maracaibo, Maracaibo, Venezuela,Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases Research Center, School of Medicine, University of Zulia, Maracaibo, Venezuela
| | - Ángel Ortega
- Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases Research Center, School of Medicine, University of Zulia, Maracaibo, Venezuela
| | - Pablo Duran
- Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases Research Center, School of Medicine, University of Zulia, Maracaibo, Venezuela
| | - Daniela Pirela
- Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases Research Center, School of Medicine, University of Zulia, Maracaibo, Venezuela
| | - María Marquina
- Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases Research Center, School of Medicine, University of Zulia, Maracaibo, Venezuela
| | - Climaco Cano
- Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases Research Center, School of Medicine, University of Zulia, Maracaibo, Venezuela
| | - Juan Salazar
- Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases Research Center, School of Medicine, University of Zulia, Maracaibo, Venezuela
| | | | - Valmore Bermúdez
- Universidad Simón Bolívar, Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Barranquilla, Colombia
| | - Joselyn Rojas-Quintero
- Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine Department, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Manuel Velasco
- Clinical Pharmacology Unit, School of Medicine José María Vargas, Central University of Venezuela, Caracas,
Venezuela
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Mobasseri M, Ostadrahimi A, Tajaddini A, Asghari S, Barati M, Akbarzadeh M, Nikpayam O, Houshyar J, Roshanravan N, Alamdari NM. Effects of saffron supplementation on glycemia and inflammation in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus: A randomized double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial study. Diabetes Metab Syndr 2020; 14:527-534. [PMID: 32408117 DOI: 10.1016/j.dsx.2020.04.031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2020] [Revised: 04/19/2020] [Accepted: 04/21/2020] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND New evidence indicates that overproduction of pro-inflammatory cytokines is responsible for the development of diabetes difficulties. Some herbals such as saffron, may control inflammation and improve the hyperglycemic states in diabetic patients. Therefore, this investigation aimed to assess the effects of saffron supplementation on fasting glucose and inflammatory markers levels in patients with type2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). METHODS In this randomized double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial, 60 T2DM patients were randomly assigned into two groups as saffron and placebo (n = 30) receiving 100 mg/day saffron powder or starch capsules (1 capsule) for a duration of 8 weeks. Fasting blood sample was collected at baseline and at the end of the intervention. Fasting blood glucose (FBG) was immediately analyzed by the auto-analyzer. The serum level of Interleukin -6 (IL-6), Tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), and Interleukin-10 (IL-10) were measured using ELISA assay by laboratory kits. Also, Real-time quantitative reverse transcription (RT-PCR) assay measured the expression level of TNF-α, IL-6, and IL-10 at the mRNA level. RESULTS Saffron supplementation significantly decreased the FBG levels within 8 weeks compared to placebo (130.93 ± 21.21 vs 135.13 ± 23.03 mg/dl, P = 0.012). Moreover, the serum level of TNF-α notably reduced in the saffron group compared to the placebo group (114.40 ± 24.28 vs 140.90 ± 25.49 pg/ml, P < 0.001). Also, saffron supplementation significantly down-regulated the expressions of TNF-α (P = 0.035) and IL-6 mRNA levels (P = 0.014). CONCLUSION In our study, it was indicated that saffron modulates glucose levels as well as inflammation status in T2DM patients through decreasing the expressions levels of some inflammatory mediators. Also, further investigations are necessary to confirm the positive effects of saffron as a complementary therapy for T2DM patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Majid Mobasseri
- Department of Medicine, Endocrine Section, Endocrine Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Iran
| | - Alireza Ostadrahimi
- Nutrition Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Aynaz Tajaddini
- Nutrition Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran; Pharmacology School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, The University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, 2052, Australia
| | - Samira Asghari
- Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine Institute, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Meisam Barati
- Student Research Committee, Department of Cellular and Molecular Nutrition, National Nutrition and Food Technology Research Institute, Faculty of Nutrition Science and Food Technology, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Moloud Akbarzadeh
- Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine Institute, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Omid Nikpayam
- Students Research Committee, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran; Department of Clinical Nutrition, Faculty of Nutrition and Food Science, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Jalil Houshyar
- Department of Medicine, Endocrine Section, Endocrine Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Iran
| | - Neda Roshanravan
- Cardiovascular Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.
| | - Naimeh Mesri Alamdari
- Student Research Committee, Department of Nutrition, School of Public Health, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
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21
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Salaverry LS, Parrado AC, Mangone FM, Dobrecky CB, Flor SA, Lombardo T, Sotelo AD, Saccodossi N, Rugna AZ, Blanco G, Canellada A, Rey-Roldán EB. In vitro anti-inflammatory properties of Smilax campestris aqueous extract in human macrophages, and characterization of its flavonoid profile. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2020; 247:112282. [PMID: 31604138 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2019.112282] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2019] [Revised: 09/18/2019] [Accepted: 10/07/2019] [Indexed: 05/20/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Extracts of Smilax campestris Griseb (Smilacaceae) have been employed in the treatment of several inflammatory diseases as a traditional herbal medicine. However, the cellular and molecular mechanisms involved in the observed effects remain elusive. Macrophages are known to play a central role in inflammatory responses. These cells are activated in response to a diversity of danger signals and produce several mediators of inflammation that eventually regulate the immune response. For all the above mentioned, scientific evidence is required to support the popular use of S. campestris. AIM OF THE STUDY We aimed to investigate the anti-inflammatory effect of S. campestris aqueous extract (SME) in activated THP-1 human macrophages, on the production of some mediators of inflammation and oxidative stress in order to provide scientific support for its popular use. MATERIALS AND METHODS The characterization of SME was assessed by HPLC-MS/MS. The production of the pro-inflammatory cytokines and chemokines was evaluated by ELISA. The activity of metalloproteases was evaluated by zymography. The subcellular localization of the NF-κB transcription factor was analysed by Western blot. The superoxide anion and glutathione levels were assessed by flow cytometry. The cytotoxicity induced by SME in THP-1 macrophages was also investigated by the LDH release test. RESULTS In the present study, we have identified catechin and glycosylated derivatives of quercetin (quercetin-3-O-glucoside, quercetin-3-O-galactoside, rutin and quercetin-3-rhamnoside) as major components of the aqueous SME. We found that SME significantly decreased the production of the pro-inflammatory cytokines tumour necrosis factor (TNF)- α, interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-6, IL-8 and monocyte chemoattractant protein (MCP)-1 and the activity of the metalloproteinase (MMP)-9, in lipopolysaccharide-activated macrophages derived from the monocytic cell line THP-1. Furthermore, SME diminished the expression of NF-κB p65 subunit in the nuclear fraction. In addition, SME decreased the production of superoxide anion in THP-1 macrophages, without altering the levels of reduced glutathione. CONCLUSION These results suggest that SME exerts its anti-inflammatory effects in human activated macrophages by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines, matrix metalloproteinases and the NF-κB transcription factor pathway along with a reduction of oxidative stress mediators. Moreover, catechin and glycosylated derivatives of were identified by HPLC-MS/MS in SME. Our findings provide scientific support for the traditional use of the S. campestris extracts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luciana S Salaverry
- Universidad de Buenos Aires, Facultad de Farmacia y Bioquímica, Departamento de Microbiología, Inmunología, Biotecnología y Genética, Buenos Aires, Argentina; Instituto de Estudios de la Inmunidad Humoral Dr. R.A. Margni (IDEHU), UBA-CONICET, Argentina.
| | - Andrea C Parrado
- Universidad de Buenos Aires, Facultad de Farmacia y Bioquímica, Departamento de Microbiología, Inmunología, Biotecnología y Genética, Buenos Aires, Argentina; Instituto de Estudios de la Inmunidad Humoral Dr. R.A. Margni (IDEHU), UBA-CONICET, Argentina.
| | - Franco M Mangone
- Universidad de Buenos Aires, Facultad de Farmacia y Bioquímica, Departamento de Microbiología, Inmunología, Biotecnología y Genética, Buenos Aires, Argentina; Instituto de Estudios de la Inmunidad Humoral Dr. R.A. Margni (IDEHU), UBA-CONICET, Argentina.
| | - Cecilia B Dobrecky
- Universidad de Buenos Aires, Facultad de Farmacia y Bioquímica, Departamento de Tecnología Farmacéutica, Buenos Aires, Argentina; Universidad de Buenos Aires, Facultad de Farmacia y Bioquímica, Departamento de Farmacología, Buenos Aires, Argentina.
| | - Sabrina A Flor
- Universidad de Buenos Aires, Facultad de Farmacia y Bioquímica, Departamento de Tecnología Farmacéutica, Buenos Aires, Argentina; Universidad de Buenos Aires, Facultad de Farmacia y Bioquímica, Departamento de Química Analítica y Fisicoquímica, Buenos Aires, Argentina; Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas, CONICET, Argentina.
| | - Tomás Lombardo
- Universidad de Buenos Aires, Facultad de Farmacia y Bioquímica, Departamento de Microbiología, Inmunología, Biotecnología y Genética, Buenos Aires, Argentina; Instituto de Estudios de la Inmunidad Humoral Dr. R.A. Margni (IDEHU), UBA-CONICET, Argentina.
| | - Agustina D Sotelo
- Universidad de Buenos Aires, Facultad de Farmacia y Bioquímica, Departamento de Microbiología, Inmunología, Biotecnología y Genética, Buenos Aires, Argentina.
| | - Natalia Saccodossi
- Universidad de Buenos Aires, Facultad de Farmacia y Bioquímica, Departamento de Microbiología, Inmunología, Biotecnología y Genética, Buenos Aires, Argentina.
| | - Ana Z Rugna
- Hospital General de Agudos Dr. Juan A. Fernández, Buenos Aires, Argentina.
| | - Guillermo Blanco
- Instituto de Estudios de la Inmunidad Humoral Dr. R.A. Margni (IDEHU), UBA-CONICET, Argentina.
| | - Andrea Canellada
- Universidad de Buenos Aires, Facultad de Farmacia y Bioquímica, Departamento de Microbiología, Inmunología, Biotecnología y Genética, Buenos Aires, Argentina; Instituto de Estudios de la Inmunidad Humoral Dr. R.A. Margni (IDEHU), UBA-CONICET, Argentina.
| | - Estela B Rey-Roldán
- Universidad de Buenos Aires, Facultad de Farmacia y Bioquímica, Departamento de Microbiología, Inmunología, Biotecnología y Genética, Buenos Aires, Argentina; Instituto de Estudios de la Inmunidad Humoral Dr. R.A. Margni (IDEHU), UBA-CONICET, Argentina.
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Abedimanesh N, Motlagh B, Abedimanesh S, Bathaie SZ, Separham A, Ostadrahimi A. Effects of crocin and saffron aqueous extract on gene expression of SIRT1, AMPK, LOX1, NF-κB, and MCP-1 in patients with coronary artery disease: A randomized placebo-controlled clinical trial. Phytother Res 2019; 34:1114-1122. [PMID: 31797473 DOI: 10.1002/ptr.6580] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2019] [Revised: 11/02/2019] [Accepted: 11/14/2019] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
This trial evaluated the potential impacts of saffron aqueous extract (SAE) and its main carotenoid on some of the atherosclerosis-related gene expression and serum levels of oxidized low-density cholesterol (ox-LDL) and Monocyte chemoattractant protein 1 (MCP-1) in patients with coronary artery disease (CAD). Participants of this randomized controlled trial included 84 CAD patients who categorized into three groups: Group 1 received crocin (30 mg/day), Group 2 SAE (30 mg/day), and Group 3 placebo for 8 weeks. Gene expression of Sirtuin 1 (SIRT1), 5'-adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase (AMPK), Lectin-like oxidized LDL receptor 1 (LOX1), nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells (NF-κB), and MCP-1 in peripheral blood mononuclear cells assessed by real-time PCR. Furthermore, serum ox-LDL and MCP-1 levels measured at the beginning and end of the intervention. Compared with the placebo group, gene expression of SIRT1 and AMPK increased significantly in the crocin group (p = .001), and the expression of LOX1 and NF-κB decreased significantly (p = .016 and .004, respectively). Serum ox-LDL levels decreased significantly in the crocin group after the intervention (p = .002) while MCP-1 levels decreased both in crocin and SAE groups (p = .001). Crocin may have beneficial effects on CAD patients by increasing the gene expression of SIRT1 and AMPK and decreasing the expression of LOX1 and NF-κB.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nasim Abedimanesh
- Department of Nutrition, School of Medicine, Zanjan University of Medical Sciences, Zanjan, Iran
| | - Behrooz Motlagh
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, School of Medicine, Zanjan University of Medical Sciences, Zanjan, Iran
| | - Saeed Abedimanesh
- Faculty of Medical Sciences, Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
| | - S Zahra Bathaie
- Faculty of Medical Sciences, Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ahmad Separham
- Cardiovascular Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Alireza Ostadrahimi
- Nutrition Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
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Abedimanesh S, Bathaie SZ, Ostadrahimi A, Asghari Jafarabadi M, Taban Sadeghi M. The effect of crocetin supplementation on markers of atherogenic risk in patients with coronary artery disease: a pilot, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial. Food Funct 2019; 10:7461-7475. [PMID: 31667483 DOI: 10.1039/c9fo01166h] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Molecular mechanisms of atherogenesis are considered to be emerging therapeutic targets for atherosclerosis prevention. Cell and animal studies have shown that crocetin can decelerate atherogenesis. However, the anti-atherogenic properties of crocetin in humans are still ambiguous. METHODS AND RESULTS Fifty clinically diagnosed CAD patients were randomly divided into two parallel groups, crocetin and placebo, who received one capsule of crocetin (10 mg) and placebo per day, respectively, for two months. Serum circulating homocysteine (Hcy) [-1.09 (-1.64 to -0.54) μM, P = 0.001], heart-type fatty acid binding protein (h-FABP) [-2.07 (-2.72 to -1.43) ng mL-1, P = 0.001], intercellular adhesion molecule 1 [-14.92 (-21.92 to -7.92) ng mL-1, P = 0.001], vascular cell adhesion molecule 1 [-18.61 (-29.73 to -7.49) ng mL-1, P = 0.002], and monocyte chemoattractant protein 1 [-4.67 (-6.50 to -2.83) pg mL-1, P = 0.001] decreased significantly after the trial in the crocetin group, while high-density lipoprotein (HDL) significantly increased [+4.21 (0.68 to 7.73) mg mL-1, P = 0.021]. Also, systolic [-0.21 (-0.32 to -0.10) mmHg, P = 0.001] and diastolic [-0.20 (-0.34 to -0.07) mmHg, P = 0.004] blood pressures decreased significantly in the crocetin group. Nevertheless, clinically significant percentage changes were only observed in Hcy (-15.25 ± 3.15, μM), HDL (-10.70 ± 5.06, mg dL-1), and h-FABP (-21.10 ± 3.09, ng mL-1) in the crocetin group. Furthermore, the relative increase in the gene expressions of sirtuin1 and AMP-activated protein kinase and a decrease in the lectin-type oxidized LDL receptor 1 and nuclear factor-kappa B expression in isolated peripheral blood mononuclear cells in the crocetin group were significant at the end of the trial in comparison with the placebo. CONCLUSION As the first human study, we showed the ability of crocetin to alter the expression of atherogenic genes and endothelial cell adhesion molecules in CAD patients. It appears that crocetin could be considered as a promising anti-atherogenic candidate for future studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saeed Abedimanesh
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran.
| | - S Zahra Bathaie
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Alireza Ostadrahimi
- Nutritional Research Center, Faculty of Nutrition and Food Sciences, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Mohammad Asghari Jafarabadi
- Department of Statistics and Epidemiology, Faculty of Health, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
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YKL-40 promotes the progress of atherosclerosis independent of lipid metabolism in apolipoprotein E -/- mice fed a high-fat diet. Heart Vessels 2019; 34:1874-1881. [PMID: 31114961 DOI: 10.1007/s00380-019-01434-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2019] [Accepted: 05/15/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
YKL-40 is recently regarded as a pro-inflammatory cytokine involved in the pathological process of atherosclerosis and lipid metabolism. However, whether YKL-40 can directly influence the development of atherosclerosis and levels of lipid parameters is unknown. The aim of this study is to explore the effects of YKL-40 on atherosclerotic features, the levels of serum lipids, and biomarkers in apolipoprotein (E)-deficient (ApoE-/-) mice fed a high-fat diet. ApoE-/- mice were injected with a recombinant adenovirus expressing mouse YKL-40 or control adenovirus through the caudal vein. The levels of serum YKL-40, interleukin-6 (IL-6), tumour necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha), matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9), and soluble vascular cell-adhesion molecule 1 (sVCAM-1) were measured by ELISA. Lipid metabolism parameters were measured using immunoturbidimetric assay. The size of plaque area in aorta was evaluated by Oil Red O and hematoxylin/eosin (HE) staining. The content of collagen fibers was stained with Masson, and the content of macrophages and smooth muscle cells (SMCs) in atherosclerotic lesions was investigated by immunohistochemistry. The serum levels of total cholesterol and triglycerides were similar between these two groups. Compared with the control, the levels of serum YKL-40, IL-6, TNF-alpha, MMP-9, plaque size, and macrophages in plaques were significantly increased in mice with adenovirus overexpressing YKL-40. However, the content of collagen fibers and SMCs was remarkably decreased in mice with adenovirus overexpressing YKL-40 than that in control. YKL-40 prompts the progress of atherosclerosis maybe involved with its role of pro-inflammation, but does not affect lipid metabolism in ApoE-/- mice fed a high-fat diet.
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Structure Characterization and Otoprotective Effects of a New Endophytic Exopolysaccharide from Saffron. Molecules 2019; 24:molecules24040749. [PMID: 30791463 PMCID: PMC6412985 DOI: 10.3390/molecules24040749] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2019] [Revised: 02/16/2019] [Accepted: 02/18/2019] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Saffron, a kind of rare medicinal herb with antioxidant, antitumor, and anti-inflammatory activities, is the dry stigma of Crocus sativus L. A new water-soluble endophytic exopolysaccharide (EPS-2) was isolated from saffron by anion exchange chromatography and gel filtration. The chemical structure was characterized by FT-IR, GC-MS, and 1D and 2D-NMR spectra, indicating that EPS-2 has a main backbone of (1→2)-linked α-d-Manp, (1→2, 4)-linked α-d-Manp, (1→4)-linked α-d-Xylp, (1→2, 3, 5)-linked β-d-Araf, (1→6)- linked α-d-Glcp with α-d-Glcp-(1→ and α-d-Galp-(1→ as sidegroups. Furthermore, EPS-2 significantly attenuated gentamicin-induced cell damage in cultured HEI-OC1 cells and increased cell survival in zebrafish model. The results suggested that EPS-2 could protect cochlear hair cells from ototoxicity exposure. This study could provide new insights for studies on the pharmacological mechanisms of endophytic exopolysaccharides from saffron as otoprotective agents.
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Christodoulou E, Grafakou ME, Skaltsa E, Kadoglou N, Kostomitsopoulos N, Valsami G. Preparation, chemical characterization and determination of crocetin's pharmacokinetics after oral and intravenous administration of saffron (Crocus sativus L.) aqueous extract to C57/BL6J mice. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2018; 71:753-764. [PMID: 30575029 DOI: 10.1111/jphp.13055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2018] [Accepted: 11/18/2018] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To prepare a lyophilized saffron aqueous extract (SFE) and determine its chemical profile and serum and tissue pharmacokinetics after intravenous and oral administration to C57/Bl6J mice. METHODS Lyophilized SFE was prepared, characterized using semi-preparative HPLC and NMR analysis, and stability studies at room temperature, and was quantified for crocin content with an HPLC-PDA method. After intravenous and oral administration of SFE (60 mg/kg, reconstituted with water for injection) to C57/Bl6J mice, crocetin (derived from in vivo crocin hydrolysis) serum and tissue levels (unconjugated and total) were measured with an HPLC-PDA method and subjected to compartmental and non-compartmental PK analysis. KEY FINDINGS Saffron aqueous extract was rich in all-trans-crocin (27.8 ± 0.1% w/w) and stable for more than 15 months. One-compartment PK model described crocetin's (unconjugated) kinetics after intravenous administration of SFE, while a first-order kinetic parameter described the rate of crocetin biotransformation to crocetin metabolite (conjugated). Α οne-compartment PK model with first-order absorption described crocetin and crocetin's metabolite kinetics after SFE oral administration. Relative oral bioavailability was calculated at 1.17 for total crocetin. Tissue NCA PK analysis revealed extensive crocetin distribution to liver and kidneys. CONCLUSIONS SFE is a stable lyophilized extract rich in all-trans-crocin. The PK study allowed the estimation of basic PK parameters and the bioavailability of SFE's main bioactive component, crocetin, after peros administration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eirini Christodoulou
- Laboratory of Biopharmaceutics and Pharmacokinetics, Department of Pharmacy, School of Health Sciences, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Maria-Eleni Grafakou
- Laboratory of Pharmacognosy and Natural Products Chemistry, Department of Pharmacy, School of Health Sciences, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Eleni Skaltsa
- Laboratory of Pharmacognosy and Natural Products Chemistry, Department of Pharmacy, School of Health Sciences, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | | | - Nikolaos Kostomitsopoulos
- Center of Clinical Experimental Surgery and Translational Research, Biomedical Research Foundation, Academy of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Georgia Valsami
- Laboratory of Biopharmaceutics and Pharmacokinetics, Department of Pharmacy, School of Health Sciences, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
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Abstract
Cardiovascular disease is one of the leading causes of death and disability in the world. Atherosclerosis, characterized by lipid accumulation and chronic inflammation in the vessel wall, is the main feature of cardiovascular disease. Although the amounts of fruits and vegetables present in the diets vary by country, diets, worldwide, contain large amounts of spices; this may have positive or negative effects on the initiation and development of atherosclerosis. In this review, we focused on the potential protective effects of specific nutrients from spices, such as pepper, ginger, garlic, onion, cinnamon and chili, in atherosclerosis and atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease. The mechanisms, epidemiological analysis, and clinical studies focusing on a variety of spices are covered in this review. Based on the integrated information, we aimed to raise specific recommendations for people with different dietary styles for the prevention of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease through dietary habit adjustments.
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Leone S, Recinella L, Chiavaroli A, Orlando G, Ferrante C, Leporini L, Brunetti L, Menghini L. Phytotherapic use of theCrocus sativusL. (Saffron) and its potential applications: A brief overview. Phytother Res 2018; 32:2364-2375. [DOI: 10.1002/ptr.6181] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2018] [Revised: 07/03/2018] [Accepted: 07/22/2018] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Sheila Leone
- Department of Pharmacy; G. d'Annunzio University; Chieti Italy
| | - Lucia Recinella
- Department of Pharmacy; G. d'Annunzio University; Chieti Italy
| | | | | | | | - Lidia Leporini
- Department of Pharmacy; G. d'Annunzio University; Chieti Italy
| | - Luigi Brunetti
- Department of Pharmacy; G. d'Annunzio University; Chieti Italy
| | - Luigi Menghini
- Department of Pharmacy; G. d'Annunzio University; Chieti Italy
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Saffron: From Greek mythology to contemporary anti-atherosclerotic medicine. Atherosclerosis 2017; 268:193-195. [PMID: 29198557 DOI: 10.1016/j.atherosclerosis.2017.11.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2017] [Accepted: 11/20/2017] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
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