Hepatoprotective effect of Matricaria chamomilla aqueous extract against 1,2-Dimethylhydrazine-induced carcinogenic hepatic damage in mice

Oral intake of Hibiscus sabdariffa L. increased c-Myc and caspase-3 gene expression and altered microbial population in colon of BALB/c mice induced to preneoplastic lesions

BACKGROUND

Colorectal carcinogenesis induces changes in the colon, such as the appearance of aberrant crypt foci (ACF). This process is influenced by genetic and environmental factors, such as diet. Hibiscus sabdariffa L. is a considerable source of phenolic compounds, such as anthocyanins, and dietary fibers that may exert anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and prebiotic properties, attenuating the appearance of ACFs.

OBJECTIVES

To investigate whether supplementation with 5% or 10% of dehydrated calyces of Hibiscus sabadariffa (DHSC) influences the composition of the intestinal microbiota and the expression of genes related to colorectal carcinogenesis in BALB/c mice.

METHODS

The in vivo experiment lasted 12 weeks and the animals were divided into 3 experimental groups: the control group and the supplemented groups (5% or 10% DCHS) and induced pre-neoplastic lesions with the drug Dimethylhydrazine. Serum aspartate aminotransferase and alanine aminotransferase markers, liver cytokine profile, gut microbiota composition and tumor protein 53, cellular myelocytomatosis oncogene, caspase-3 and Proliferating Cell Nuclear Antigen gene expression were determined.

RESULTS

Supplementation with 5% or 10% of DCHS altered the composition of the intestinal microbiota, increasing the abundance of the families Lachnospiraceae, Ruminococcaceae, Clostridiaceae and of the genus Clostridum, important producers of butyrate. Furthermore, 5% and 10% DCHS supplementation increased caspase-3 and c-Myc expression, respectively, which may suggest apoptotic events.

CONCLUSIONS

Therefore, the effects of DHSC, rich in anthocyanins and dietary fiber, on the composition of the intestinal microbiota and on the expression of genes associated with cell apoptosis may contribute to reducing the risk of developing preneoplastic lesions.

Chamomile Extract Reduces Cardiac Toxicity in Female Mice with Ehrlich Solid Carcinoma

Cancer is the most serious disorder that may affect a person and is also the leading cause of mortality. Worldwide, breast cancer continues to be the leading cause of cancer-related deaths in women. The popularity of treating diseases using alternative and complementary medicines has increased in recent decades; many of these are derived from plants. Chamomile has a beneficial effect in treating many diseases, there for the purpose of this work is to study how chamomile protect against cardiac damage and toxicity brought on by Ehrlich solid tumor (EST) in adult female mice. 40 female mice were distributed in 4 groups (control, chamomile, EST, EST+chamomile). The research results indicated that EST caused significant alterations in cardiac function and structure. EST induced a significant elevation in serum creatine kinase (CK), creatine kinase MB (CK-MB), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), and myoglobin (MB), potassium, chloride ions, cholesterol, triglycerides, low-density lipoprotein (LDL), cardiac tissue damage, apoptotic P53 and Caspase 3 expressions while levels of sodium ions and high-density lipoprotein (HDL) were significantly decreased. Treatments of EST with chamomile improved the biochemical, histopathological, and Immunohistochemical alterations. This suggests that chamomile may be useful as an adjuvant for the treatment and prevention of cardiac toxicity.

Efficacy of thiazole derivatives against colorectal cancer induced by dimethylhydrazine in male Wistar rats

Identifying novel biological activities in hit compounds remains a significant challenge in cancer research. In this study, we evaluated the anticancer and safety profiles of two previously studied thiazole-based derivatives, Les-5303 and Les-6485, in a colorectal cancer (CRC) model induced by dimethylhydrazine (DMH) in male Wistar rats. CRC was induced through subcutaneous DMH administration at a 20 mg/kg dose for 20 weeks. Les-5303 and Les-6485 were then administered intrarectally at a 6 mg/kg dose for 5 days. The effects of these compounds on oxidative stress, the antioxidant system, inflammation, NO-synthase activity in the colonic mucosa and blood plasma, and hepatotoxicity markers, were thoroughly assessed. Both compounds demonstrated significant anticancer activity and antioxidant properties. Les-5303, however, exhibited increased hepatotoxicity, as evidenced by elevated AST activity and reduced urea concentration in the blood, indicating its potential for liver damage. In contrast, Les-6485 showed no significant hepatotoxic effects, maintaining normal hepatic enzyme activities and urea levels, suggesting a better safety profile. These findings highlight the distinct biological effects of Les-5303 and Les-6485, with Les-6485 showing promising anticancer activity coupled with minimal toxicity, making it a more favorable candidate for further development in CRC treatment.

Madboli A, Hussien AG, Seif M. Exploring the protective effect of silver Croton tiglium nano-extract against azoxymethane induced toxicity in female reproductive organs in rats

Reproductive toxicity from food and environmental contaminants has greatly affected human life. Plants are a fundamental source of bioactive components for relieving the harmful effects of pollutants. Hydrazine metabolites pose health threats when they enter the food chain. Croton tiglium (C. tiglium) exhibits anti-inflammatory and anti-tumor properties. Silver nanoparticles enhance the chemical stability of C. tiglium. Reproductive toxicity of Azoxymethane (AOM) and anticancer effects of silver C. tiglium were evaluated. Thirty-six adult female rats were divided into six groups (n = 6) and treated with AOM with or without silver C. tiglium nano-extract as pre- and post-treatment. Sexual hormones and proteins were assessed under silver C. tiglium nano-extract and AOM. Histopathologically, AOM caused metaplastic myometrial endometriotic cysts and endometrial metaplasia. Silver C. tiglium in pre- and post-treated rats mitigated the carcinogenic effects of AOM. Immunohistochemically, AOM carcinogenicity was evident through moderate detection of the CK-7 tumor marker in the ovaries and uterus of the AOM-, simultaneous-, and post-treated groups. C. tiglium ameliorated this, with CK-7 slightly expressed in the pre-treated group. Furthermore, C. tiglium alleviated the negative impact on FSH, LH, and 17-β estradiol hormones. In conclusion, Silver C. tiglium nano-extract successfully prevented tumors in the ovaries and uterus of AOM-treated rats.

Effect of Lactobacillus acidophilus, Calcium, and Moringa oleifera leaves extract co-administration can prevent chemical-induced carcinogenesis

BACKGROUND

Colon cancer is the fourth leading cause of cancer deaths worldwide. The present study evaluated the chemopreventive effect of the combined treatment of Lactobacillus acidophilus, calcium citrate, and Moringa oleifera leaves extract against DMH (1,1-dimethylhydrazine hydrochloride) induced colon cancer.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Sprague Dawley rats were grouped into 10 different groups and treated with DMH 30 mg/kg s.c. for 8 weeks, Successful induction of colon cancer was confirmed with the help of symptoms, Individual and combined treatments of Lactobacillus acidophilus (109 cfu p.o.), calcium citrate (2 mg/kg p.o.) and Moringa oleifera (100 & 200 mg/kg p.o.) leaves extracts were used for 4 weeks.

RESULT

After 4 weeks of treatment, it was observed that a significant reduction in aberrant crypt foci (ACFs) count, whereas liver and kidney function, AST (aspartate transaminase), ALT (alanine transaminase), urea and creatinine biomarkers were retained in its normal range. Upon DMH treatment, liver tissue loses histoarchitecture with mononuclear cell infiltration, nuclear enlargement, and hyperchromasia, this reverts due to the combined treatment of Lactobacillus acidophilus (LA), calcium citrate (CC) and hydroalcoholic extract of Moringa oleifera leaves (ME). From the results, it was revealed that individual and combined treatment of Lactobacillus acidophilus, calcium citrate, and hydroalcoholic extract of Moringa oleifera leaves shows beneficial effects against the carcinogen.

CONCLUSION

Combined treatment of Lactobacillus acidophilus, calcium citrate, and hydroalcoholic extract of Moringa oleifera leaves showed positive effects against carcinogenesis and lowered aberrant crypt foci count and shows histoarchitectural improvements in liver histology with no nuclear enlargement and hyperchromasia in liver tissue.

Investigating the hepato-protective properties of chamomile oil and olive leaves extracts against ribociclib-induced hepatotoxicity

A new approach to overcome or reduce these toxicities is by using antioxidants. Ribociclib, a CDK4/6 inhibitor used in the treatment of breast cancer, has been linked to hepatotoxicity and may contribute to the development of Hepatocellular carcinoma in rats. This Study aims to assess hepatoprotective effect of chamomile oil and olive leaf extracts against ribociclib-induced Hepatotoxicity in rats. A total of 40 adult male albino rats aged 9-10 weeks were utilized in this experiment. These rats were divided into four groups, (N=10). Group A (control) comprised normal rats administered 1 ml (10 ml/kg/day) of normal saline daily. Conversely, group B rats were administered 5 mg/kg Ribociclib (n = 10), while group C was administered 5 mg/kg Ribociclib with a 500 mg/kg/day dose of chamomile oil. Group D was given 5 mg \kg Ribociclib in combination with 200 mg/kg/day of olive leaves. After the trial, the animals were sacrificed, blood samples were collected for biochemical tests, and the liver tissue was processed for histological examination. The results of histology, and biochemistry parameter analysis, indicated that co-administration of Ribociclib and chamomile oil plays a decisive role in mitigating the hepatotoxicity result from Ribociclib-induced liver injuries in rats as demonstrated by histological and biochemical parameters.The levels of cholesterol and LDL in the blood were significantly lower (P < 0.01) after administering chamomile oil compared to the control group. The results of the current study demonstrated that the simultaneous use of chamomile oil and olive leaf extract significantly reduced the liver damage caused by Ribociclib and improved the lipid profile in Albino rats. Additionally, the use of chamomile extract notably lowered urea levels (p < 0.01), indicating a protective effect on the kidneys.

The relationship between phytoestrogen-rich supplements and breast cancer: A multicenter case-control study in Saudi Arabia

Objectives

The prospective effect of phytoestrogen-rich supplements has been explored by many researchers in an attempt to reduce breast cancer (BC) risk worldwide. In Saudi Arabia, some widely used supplements have high phytoestrogen content. Therefore, we aimed to (1) assess the relationship between phytoestrogen supplements (PSs) that are widely used among women of Saudi Arabia and BC and (2) assess the relationship based on the menstrual status.

Methods

The study took place during 2020-2022 to assess several PSs using a case-control design that included five centers from different provinces around the country. A questionnaire was answered by the participants that included 381 (46%) cases (diagnosed with BC) and 449 (54%) controls (free of BC). The PS items were assessed individually and on the multivariant analysis model.

Results

Of the 12 phytoestrogen-rich supplements, soy milk showed a significant decrease in BC risk. However, Echinacea showed an increased risk of BC among its users. A subgroup analysis based on the menstrual status demonstrated an increased risk of BC among licorice root and green tea users on premenopausal and postmenopausal women, respectively.

Conclusion

Soy isoflavones continue to show a significant risk reduction that could be used for a modified approach to reduce the risk of BC. However, Echinacea, licorice root, and green tea have shown to increase the risk of BC.

Synergistic Antigenotoxic and Antioxidant Action of Gum Arabic and Eugenol in Rat Liver Following Induction of Colorectal Carcinogenesis

OBJECTIVE

Much research has been conducted to identify natural antioxidant and antimutagenic compounds capable of preventing, reverting or treating conditions caused by oxidative stress and genotoxicity. In this study we evaluated the effects of 10% gum arabic (GA) and eugenol (EUG) on hepatic oxidative stress and genotoxicity induced by dimethylhydrazine (DMH) in rats.

METHODS

The prevention arm of the study included 4 control groups and 4 experimental groups. Once a week for 20 weeks, the controls received saline s.c. while the experimental groups received DMH at 20 mg/kg s.c. During the same period and for an additional 9 weeks, the animals received either water, 10% GA , EUG or 10% GA + EUG  by gavage. The treatment arm of the study included 4 control groups and 4 experimental groups. Once a week for 20 weeks, the controls received saline s.c. while the experimental groups received DMH at 20 mg/kg s.c. During the subsequent 9 weeks, the animals received either water, 10% GA, EUG or 10% GA + EUG  by gavage. Finally, the livers were harvested for histopathological study with HE, measurement of genotoxicity and oxidative stress.

RESULT

Genotoxicity and oxidative stress were found to be significantly lower in Group XII (animals treated concomitantly with GA and EUG). This is the first study to observe the synergistic action of GA and EUG administered concomitantly in this scenario.

CONCLUSION

Indicating a synergistic antigenotoxic and antioxidant effect on liver cells in rats with DMH-induced colorectal carcinogenesis.

Hibiscus (Hibiscus sabdariffa L.) supplementation increases butyrate synthesis and reduces inflammatory cells, attenuating the formation of aberrant crypt foci in BALB/c mice induced to pre-neoplastic lesions

The development of colorectal cancer involves some morphological changes, and in the initial stage, pre-neoplastic lesions called aberrant crypt foci (ACF) appear. Thus, an intervention with sources of bioactive compounds such as Hibiscus sabdariffa L., rich in phenolic compounds and anthocyanins, could attenuate the risk of developing these lesions due to its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and anti-proliferative properties. Therefore, the aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of 5 % and 10 % supplementation of dehydrated H. sabdariffa calyces (DHSC) during the development of 1,2-dimethylhydrazine-induced pre-neoplastic lesions in male BALB/c mice. The characterisation of DHSC was carried out. The in vivo experiment lasted 12 weeks, and the animals were randomly divided into three experimental groups: the control group (CON) and the supplemented groups with 5 % DHSC and 10 % DHSC. The activities of liver enzymes catalase (CAT) and superoxide dismutase were determined. In addition, ACF, SCFA, presence of inflammatory infiltrates, goblet cells and leucocytes in the colonic mucosa were quantified. There was a significant reduction in ACF and the presence of inflammatory infiltrates in the colon of animals in groups 5DHSC and 10DHSC. In addition, the 10DHSC group showed an increase in the activity of the CAT enzyme, in the production of butyrate and in the presence of natural killer cells in the colon, in addition to more hypertrophied goblet cells. Based on these findings, it is suggested that DHSC supplementation may be recommended to attenuate cellular responses in the early stage of pre-neoplastic lesions.

Chamomile: A Review of Its Traditional Uses, Chemical Constituents, Pharmacological Activities and Quality Control Studies

Matricaria chamomilla L. (MC) and Chamaemelum nobile (L.) All. (CN) are two varieties of Chamomile. These herbs have been used for thousands of years in Greece, Rome and ancient Egypt. Chamomile has been used for the treatment of stomach problems, cramps, dermatitis, and minor infections. The purpose of this study was to introduce the botanical characteristics and geographical distribution, traditional uses, chemical constituents, pharmacological activities, toxicity studies and quality control studies, and lay a theoretical foundation for the rational development and utilization of chamomile. This review powered that chemical constituents include flavonoids, coumarins, volatile oils, terpenes, organic acids, polysaccharides, and others. These compounds possess anticancer, anti-infective, anti-inflammatory, antithrombotic, antioxidant, hypolipidaemic, hypoglycaemic, antihypertensive, antidepressant, neuroprotective activities, among others. Chamomile is a widely used herb in traditional medicine. It brings great economic value due to its numerous pharmacological effects and traditional uses. However, more toxicity tests should be carried out to confirm its safety. There is need for further research to provide concrete scientific evidence and validate its medicinal properties.

The Influence of Freeze-Dried Alcohol-Water Extracts from Common Yarrow (Achillea millefolium L.) and German Chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla L.) on the Properties of Elastomer Vulcanizates

This research work aimed to investigate the properties of freeze-dried extracts from Matricaria chamomilla L. and Achillea millefolium L. and to perform a characterization of their impact on the natural rubber-based vulcanizates. First, extracts were prepared in three different solvents at selected volume ratios: water (100), water-methanol (50/50), and water-ethanol (50/50). Next, the freeze-drying of extracts was established and then obtained bio-additives were introduced to the rubber mixtures. Freeze-dried extracts were investigated by UV-VIS diffuse reflectance spectroscopy, Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), Near-Infrared spectroscopy (NIR) and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). Antioxidant activity and total phenolic content (TPC) were also defined. Rubber mixtures were examined in a rheometer and after vulcanization they were subjected to accelerated simulated aging by UV radiation and thermo-oxidative aging. To determine the resistance of vulcanizates to the degradation processes, the study of cross-linking density (equilibrium swelling method), mechanical properties (tensile strength, elongation at break) and color change were conducted. Performed studies proved the antioxidant activity of freeze-dried extracts caused by the high content of polyphenols and their beneficial influence on the properties of elastomer vulcanizates.

A Comprehensive Study of Therapeutic Applications of Chamomile

Chamomile has a long history of traditional medicinal uses. The two commonly used varieties with therapeutic applications are German chamomile known as Matricaria chamomilla L. and Roman chamomile or Chamaemelum nobile L. The plant contains many components, namely, flavonoids, terpenoids, and coumarins, which are responsible for its medicinal properties. The review discusses recent developments that help in establishing its role as a therapeutic agent in various areas as an anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, analgesic, antimicrobial, hepatoprotective, anti-allergic, anticancer, and anti-hypertensive agent. Not much is known about its role in the treatment of CNS disorders and metabolic syndromes, which are also discussed. The chemical components responsible for the therapeutic activity and the respective mechanism of action are also elaborated.

Dealkenylation of neoandrographolide, a phytochemical from Andrographis paniculata stimulates FXR (Farnesoid X Receptor) and enhances gallstone dissolution

FXR (Farnesoid X Receptor) is one of the nuclear receptors expressed in the liver performing a significant role in the maintenance of bile acid concentration. An imbalance of cholesterol and bile acid ratio due to any undefined reason could cause gallstone formation. Hence, this paper aims to screen phytochemicals that could maintain a requisite balance of cholesterol and bile acid by targeting FXR and thereby contributing to the dissolution of gallstone. Nineteen phytochemicals were selected and queried for Pa and Pi in the way2drug online server for hepatoprotective property, cholesterol synthesis and absorption inhibition property, and β-glucuronidase inhibiting activity. Cianidanol, neoandrographolide, cynarine, saponins, and tanins with satisfying stated properties were docked with the screened FXR (PDB ID- 1OSH) using HADDOCK server, followed by pharmacokinetics study utilizing SwissADME tool. Neoandrographolide fits best among the other selected literature-based phytochemicals with minor violation of 'Brenk's rule'. The violation was corrected with the removal of an alkene group in the provided ChemDraw space of SwissADME. This Dealkenylated compound was further docked with FXR. The promising response under the static condition of the Dealkenylated compound was analyzed for molecular dynamic simulation at physiological conditions for 100 ns. Dealkenylated Neoandrographolide (DN) exhibited hepatoprotective, cholesterol synthesis and absorption inhibition property, and β-glucuronidase inhibition activity with a superior binding score of -42.6+/-1.5 with FXR. The interaction of the FXR receptor and the DN showed exceptional stability at physiological conditions during MD simulation and fit for the ADME properties, therefore it could be a potent candidate to dissolve gallstones.Communicated by Ramaswamy H. Sarma.

Potential Application of Peppermint (Mentha piperita L.), German Chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla L.) and Yarrow (Achillea millefolium L.) as Active Fillers in Natural Rubber Biocomposites

In this study, peppermint (Mentha piperita L.), German chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla L.) and yarrow (Achillea millefolium L.) were applied as natural fibrous fillers to create biocomposites containing substances of plant origin. The purpose of the work was to investigate the activity and effectiveness of selected plants as a material for the modification of natural rubber composites. This research was the first approach to examine the usefulness of peppermint, German chamomile and yarrow in the field of polymer technology. Dried and ground plant particles were subjected to Fourier transmission infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and UV–Vis spectroscopy, thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), goniometric measurements (contact angle) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The characterization of natural rubber composites filled with bio-additives was performed including rheometric measurements, FTIR, TGA, cross-linking density, mechanical properties and colour change after simulated aging processes. Composites filled with natural fillers showed improved barrier properties and mechanical strength. Moreover, an increase in the cross-linking density of the materials before and after the simulated aging processes, compared to the reference sample, was observed.