The ethanol extract of Leonurus sibiricus L. induces antioxidant, antinociceptive and topical anti-inflammatory effects

Effect of Leonurus japonicus alkaloids on endometrial inflammation and its mechanisms

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

The aerial parts of Leonurus japonicus Houtt. (Chinese motherwort) are famous for their efficacy in treating obstetrical and gynecological diseases in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM). Alkaloids are the major bioactive components of motherwort and have gained extensive attention for alleviating several symptoms of obstetrical and gynecological diseases such as postpartum hemorrhage, postpartum rehabilitation, irregular menstruation, and dysmenorrhea. However, the effects of motherwort alkaloids on endometritis remain unclear.

AIM OF THE STUDY

The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of motherwort total alkaloids (MTAs) on endometritis and explore the molecular mechanisms using an integrating network analysis and in vitro experimental verification.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Ultra-high performance liquid chromatography-tandem quadrupole-orbitrap high-resolution mass spectrometry (UPLC-Q-Orbitrap HRMS) was used to analyze and identify the components in the MTAs. The effects of MTAs were evaluated using bacteria-induced endometritis in rats. Network pharmacology was conducted to predict possible mechanism pathways of MTAs in endometritis. Finally, lipopolysaccharide-stimulated mouse mononuclear macrophage (RAW 264.7) cells and human endometrial epithelial cells were used to identify signaling pathways through which MTAs exert their effects.

RESULTS

Thirty-nine alkaloids were identified in MTAs using the UPLC-Q-Orbitrap HRMS analysis. Their corresponding putative targets were then predicted. The MTAs exerted pharmacological effects on endometritis through a multi-ingredient and multi-target pattern. Network pharmacology showed that the MTAs had 152 candidate targets in treating endometritis. According to the KEGG analysis, the MTAs were found to potentially affect the PI3K-AKT and NF-κB signaling pathways. The following experiments showed that the MTAs exhibited significant effects on endometritis in vivo, significantly reduced the overproduction of inflammatory mediators, and promoted endometrial cell repair via the PI3K/AKT/NF-κB signaling pathway.

CONCLUSIONS

Motherwort alkaloids can be used to treat endometrial inflammation by regulating the PI3K/AKT/NF-κB pathway. This study provides a scientific basis for the use of MTAs for treating endometritis.

Anti-inflammatory labdane diterpenoids from the aerial parts of Leonurus sibiricus

Eleven undescribed labdane diterpenoids, sibiricusins K-U, and seven known analogues were obtained from the MeOH extract of the aerial parts of Leonurus sibiricus. The structures of the compounds were established by detailed spectroscopic data analysis, single-crystal X-ray diffraction analysis and ECD calculations. Among them, sibiricusins L-N featured a rare α, β-unsaturated-γ-lactam moiety. Fourteen of the isolates were evaluated for their anti-inflammatory effect on the production of NO in LPS-induced RAW264.7 cells through Griess assay. Sibiricusin O displayed the strongest activity with an IC50 value of 9.0 ± 1.7 μM.

An analytical framework combining online high-performance liquid chromatography methodologies and biological properties of different extracts of Leonurus cardiaca

Little or no information is available concerning online high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) antioxidants and the antibiofilm effect of Leonurus cardiaca. Five distinct extractions of methanolic, ethyl acetate, dichloromethane, hexane, and water were obtained from L. cardiaca. In the online-HPLC-antioxidant analysis of all examined samples, rosmarinic acid emerged as the primary antioxidant, registering concentrations ranging from 6 to 15 ppm at wavelengths of 517 and 734 nm. Notably, the water extract exhibited robust antioxidant activity In vitro. Regarding acetylcholinesterase and butrylcholinesterase inhibition, the n-hexane extract exhibited superior inhibition with values of 3.08 and 5.83 galanthamine equivalent, respectively. Except for the water extract, all tested extracts (at a concentration of 20 μg/mL) exhibited substantial inhibitory activity against biofilm formation, in many cases superior to 80%, and reached even 94.52% against Escherichia coli. Although less vigorous, the extracts also acted against the mature biofilm (inhibition up 76.50% against Staphylococcus aureus). They could work against the metabolism inside an immature and mature biofilm, with inhibition percentages up to 93.18% (vs. Pseudomonas aeruginosa) and 76.50% (vs. Acinetobacter baumannii), respectively. Considering its significant antioxidants, enzyme inhibition, and antimicrobial activity, L. cardiaca emerges as a promising candidate for therapeutic potential.

Schinus terebinthifolius Raddi (Brazilian pepper) leaves extract: in vitro and in vivo evidence of anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties

The aim of this work was to evaluate the anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects of ethyl acetate extract obtained from the leaves of Brazilian peppertree Schinus terebinthifolius Raddi (EAELSt). Total phenols and flavonoids, chemical constituents, in vitro antioxidant activity (DPPH and lipoperoxidation assays), and cytotoxicity in L929 fibroblasts were determined. In vivo anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties were evaluated using TPA-induced ear inflammation model in mice. Phenol and flavonoid contents were 19.2 ± 0.4 and 93.8 ± 5.2 of gallic acid or quercetin equivalents/g, respectively. LC-MS analysis identified 43 compounds, of which myricetin-O-pentoside and quercetin-O-rhamnoside were major peaks of chromatogram. Incubation with EAELSt decreased the amount of DPPH radical (EC50 of 54.5 ± 2.4 µg/mL) and lipoperoxidation at 200-500 µg/mL. The incubation with EAELSt did not change fibroblast viability up to 100 µg/mL. Topical treatment with EAELSt significantly reduced edema and myeloperoxidase activity at 0.3, 1, and 3 mg/ear when compared to the vehicle-treated group. In addition, EAELSt decreased IL-6 and TNF-α levels and increased IL-10 levels. Besides, it modulated markers of oxidative stress (reduced total hydroperoxides and increased sulfhydryl contents and ferrium reduction potential) and increased the activity of catalase and superoxide dismutase, without altering GPx activity.

In Vitro Evaluation and In Silico Calculations of the Antioxidant and Anti-Inflammatory Properties of Secondary Metabolites from Leonurus sibiricus L. Root Extracts

Leonurus sibiricus L. has great ethnobotanical and ethnomedicinal significance. This study aimed to assess the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of Leonurus sibiricus L. transgenic roots extracts transformed by Rhizobium rhizogenes, with and without the AtPAP1 transcriptional factor. The study determined the total phenolic and flavonoid contents, as well as in vitro antioxidant assays, including hydrogen peroxide and nitric oxide scavenging activity. In addition, in silico computational studies and molecular docking were conducted to evaluate the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory potential of the identified compounds. The ligands were docked to NADPH oxidase, cyclooxygenase 2,5-lipoxygenase, inducible nitric synthase and xanthine oxidase: enzymes involved in the inflammatory process. The total phenolic and flavonoid contents ranged from 85.3 ± 0.35 to 57.4 ± 0.15 mg/g GAE/g and 25.6 ± 0.42 to 18.2 ± 0.44 mg/g QUE/g in hairy root extracts with and without AtPAP1, respectively. H2O2 scavenging activity (IC50) was found to be 29.3 µg/mL (with AtPAP1) and 37.5 µg/mL (without AtPAP1 transcriptional factor), and NO scavenging activity (IC50) was 48.0 µg/mL (with AtPAP1) and 68.8 µg/mL (without AtPAP1 transcriptional factor). Leonurus sibiricus L. transformed root extracts, both with and without AtPAP1, are a source of phytochemicals belonging to different classes of molecules, such as flavonoids (catechin and rutin), phenolic compounds (caffeic acid, coumaric acid, chlorogenic acid, ferulic acid) and phenylpropanoid (verbascoside). Among the radicals formed after H removal from the different -OH positions, the lowest bond dissociation enthalpy was observed for rutin (4'-OH). Rutin was found to bind with cyclooxygenase 2, inducible nitric synthases and xanthine oxidase, whereas chlorogenic acid demonstrated optimal binding with 5-lipoxygenase. Therefore, it appears that the Leonurus sibiricus L. transformed root extract, both with and without the AtPAP1 transcriptional factor, may serve as a potential source of active components with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory potential; however, the extract containing AtPAP1 demonstrates superior activities. These properties could be beneficial for human health.

Gastroprotective action of the ethanol extract of Leonurus sibiricus L. (Lamiaceae) in mice

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Leonurus sibiricus L. (Lamiaceae) is a medicinal plant known in Brazil as "rubim" or "erva de macaé". It is used for various purposes, including stomach disorders.

AIM OF THE STUDY

To evaluate the effect of the ethanol extract of the aerial parts of L. sibiricus (EELs) in models of gastric damage in mice.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

The effect of EELs (50, 100 and 300 mg/kg, p.o., 1 h before induction) was tested on acidified ethanol (ACEt)-induced gastric ulcers. Additionally, we tested the effect of EELs (by intraduodenal administration) in the pylorus ligation (PL) model.

RESULTS

Pretreatment with EELs, at 300 mg/kg, but not 50 and 100 mg/kg, reduced the relative area of gastric ulcers induced by ACEt (p < 0.01) and lipoperoxidation (p < 0.001), and increased the sulfhydryl content (p < 0.01) in the stomach in comparison with the vehicle group. Pretreatment with N-ethylmaleimide (a blocker of non-protein sulfhydryl groups, 10 mg/kg, i.p.) or glibenclamide (a K_ATP channel blocker, 10 mg/kg, i.p.) inhibited the gastroprotective response caused by EELs (300 mg/kg; p < 0.001), but there were no alterations due to pretreatments with inhibitors of the synthesis of prostaglandins (indomethacin, 10 mg/kg), nitric oxide (L-NAME, 70 mg/kg) or hydrogen sulfide (DL-propargylglycine, 10 mg/kg). Treatment with EELs (300 mg/kg) reduced mucus production (p < 0.001) and the volume of gastric secretion (p < 0.001) after PL without affecting gastric acidity or pH.

CONCLUSIONS

These results provide evidence that EELs exerts gastroprotective action in mice, with the participation of oxidative stress and mediation of NP-SH, K_ATP channels and mucus production.

Comparative transcriptome analysis of sesquiterpene biosynthesis and functional characterization of sesquiterpene synthases in Leonurus sibiricus L

Two sesquiterpene synthases were identified through comparative transcriptome analysis of Leonurus sibiricus. LsSqTPS2 could produce high titer of δ-cadinene in vivo which suggests the terpene specificity of L. sibiricus. Leonurus sibiricus L., a medicinal herb, is widely used in China due to its pharmacological activities. Cadinene type sesquiterpenes, one of major bioactive components mainly present in aerial parts of L. sibiricus, showed antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and antiproliferative properties. However, there is no report about the sesquiterpene biosynthesis in L. sibiricus. This study identified L. sibiricus sesquiterpene synthases (LsSqTPSs) through comparative transcriptome analysis of L. sibiricus leaf and root samples using the BGISEQ-500 sequencing technique. A total of 83,244 unigenes were obtained with an average length of 1025 bp. Among them, 50,356 unigenes (60.49%) acquired annotations according to the BLAST searching results. A total of 68 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were potentially involved in the sesquiterpene biosynthesis. Furthermore, four candidate DEGs encoding LsSqTPSs were characterized. The enzymatic characterization in engineered yeast showed that LsSqTPS1 produced α-farnesene as the single product and LsSqTPS2 mainly produced 76.23 mg/L of δ-cadinene, which constituted the major component of L. sibiricus leaf essential oil. This work contributes to the investigation of sesquiterpene biosynthesis in L. sibiricus.

Leonurus sibiricus root extracts decrease airway remodeling markers expression in fibroblasts

Bronchial asthma is believed to be provoked by the interaction between airway inflammation and remodeling. Airway remodeling is a complex and poorly understood process, and controlling it appears key for halting the progression of asthma and other obstructive lung diseases. Plants synthesize a number of valuable compounds as constitutive products and as secondary metabolites, many of which have curative properties. The aim of this study was to evaluate the anti-remodeling properties of extracts from transformed and transgenic Leonurus sibiricus roots with transformed L. sibiricus roots extract with transcriptional factor AtPAP1 overexpression (AtPAP1). Two fibroblast cell lines, Wistar Institute-38 (WI-38) and human fetal lung fibroblast (HFL1), were incubated with extracts from transformed L. sibiricus roots (TR) and roots with transcriptional factor AtPAP1 over-expression (AtPAP1 TR). Additionally, remodeling conditions were induced in the cultures with rhinovirus 16 (HRV16). The expressions of metalloproteinase 9 (MMP)-9, tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinases 1 (TIMP-1), arginase I and transforming growth factor (TGF)-β were determined by quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) and immunoblotting methods. AtPAP1 TR decreased arginase I and MMP-9 expression with no effect on TIMP-1 or TGF-β mRNA expression. This extract also inhibited HRV16-induced expression of arginase I, MMP-9 and TGF-β in both cell lines (P < 0·05) Our study shows for the first time to our knowledge, that transformed AtPAP1 TR extract from L. sibiricus root may affect the remodeling process. Its effect can be attributed an increased amount of phenolic acids such as: chlorogenic acid, caffeic acid or ferulic acid and demonstrates the value of biotechnology in medicinal research.

Reduced cutaneous inflammation associated with antioxidant action after topical application of the aqueous extract of Annona muricata leaves

Annona muricata L. is used in folk medicine for treatment of diseases related to inflammatory and oxidative processes. This study investigated the effect of the aqueous extract of A. muricata leaves (AEAM) on TPA-induced ear inflammation and antioxidant capacity, both in vitro and in vivo. The in vitro antioxidant capacity of AEAM was measured by the 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), ferric reducing/antioxidant power (FRAP) and lipoperoxidation assays. Cytotoxicity and reactive oxygen species (ROS) release were evaluated in the L929 fibroblasts. Swiss mice were submitted to TPA application and were topically treated with AEAM (0.3, 1 or 3 mg/ear). After 6 h, inflammatory and oxidative parameters were evaluated. Quercetin 3-glucoside, rutin, chlorogenic acid, catechin and gallic acid were identified in AEAM. It also presented antioxidant activity in all in vitro assays used. Incubation with AEAM did not cause cell cytotoxicity but reduced ROS release from fibroblasts. Compared with the control group, treatment with AEAM significantly reduced ear oedema and mieloperoxidase activity in inflamed ears, as well as histological parameters of inflammation. These results were associated with the reduction of total hydroperoxides and modulation of catalase, but not superoxide dismutase activity. These findings show the anti-inflammatory effect of AEAM is associated with antioxidant capacity.

Enhanced oral bioavailability and bioefficacy of phloretin using mixed polymeric modified self-nanoemulsions

Phloretin (Ph) is a natural active ingredient with wide biological properties. However, its poor water-solubility and low oral bioavailability limit the application significantly in functional food and drug. This study was to explore the mixed polymer Pluronic® F127 and P123 modified the different triglycerides (LCT, MCT, SCT) in self-nanoemulsions (SNEs) for enhancing the oral bioavailability and bioefficacy of Ph. The SNEs were characterized in terms of physical property study, lipolysis study, pharmacokinetic study, and anti-inflammatory effect. The water-solubility of LCT-Ph-SNE increased 3000-fold compared with Ph solution. Pharmacokinetic study of SNEs and other carriers (HP-β-CD, PVP) results indicated that LCT-Ph-SNE was 7.9-fold more bioavailable compared with unformulated Ph. The anti-inflammatory activity of LCT-Ph-SNE in vivo represented a 6.8-fold enhancement compared with unformulated Ph. This novel SNE formulation may also be used for other poorly soluble ingredients with high loading capacity, which made a significant impact on functional food and drug.

Comparative analysis of the main active constituents from different parts of Leonurus japonicus Houtt. and from different regions in China by ultra-high performance liquid chromatography with triple quadrupole tandem mass spectrometry

A rapid, sensitive and convenient analytical method of ultra-performance liquid chromatography coupled with triple-quadrupole linear ion-trap tandem mass spectrometry (UPLC-QTRAP®/MS²) was proposed for the simultaneous determination of characteristic alkaline and acidic components covering many structure types including alkaloids, phenolic acids, phenylpropanoids and flavonoids in Leonurus japonicus Houtt. (LJ). The proposed method was first reported and validated by assessing the matrix effects, linearity, limit of detections, limit of quantifications, precision, repeatability, stability and recovery of target components. The developed UPLC-QTRAP®/MS² was successfully applied to simultaneously determine all target compounds in 38 batches of LJ from 11 different producing regions in China and five organs (including root, caulis, branch, flower and leaf) of LJ from the same stand planting base in Jiangsu Province (China). The result showed that LJ in different regions with different geographical position would affect the accumulation of different compounds, and the significant discrepancies of some target compounds were also observed in different organs of LJ due to different biosynthetic pathway and enzymes in different organs. Furthermore, both hierarchical clustering analysis and principal components analysis were performed to classify the 38 batches of LJ samples from different producing regions on the basis of target compounds. As a result, the samples could be mainly clustered into different groups, which were similar with areas classification. Overall, the presented method would be helpful for the comprehensive utilization and development of LJ resources.

Leonurus sibiricus L. ethanol extract promotes osteoblast differentiation and inhibits osteoclast formation

Leonurus sibiricus L. (LS) is a medicinal plant used in East Asia, Europe and the USA. LS is primarily used in the treatment of gynecological diseases, and recent studies have demonstrated that it exerts anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. To the best of our knowledge, the present study demonstrated for the first time that LS may promote osteoblast differentiation and suppress osteoclast differentiation in vitro, and that it inhibited lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced bone loss in a mouse model. LS was observed to promote the osteoblast differentiation of MC3T3-E1 cells and upregulate the expression of runt-related transcription factor 2 (RUNX2), a key gene involved in osteoblast differentiation. This resulted in the induction of the expression of various osteogenic genes, including alkaline phosphatase (ALP), osteonectin (OSN), osteopontin (OPN), type I collagen (COL1) and bone sialoprotein (BSP). LS was also observed to inhibit osteoclast differentiation and bone resorption. The expression levels of nuclear factor of activated T-cells 1 (NFATc1) and c-Fos were inhibited following LS treatment. NFATc1 and c-Fos are key markers of osteoclast differentiation that inhibit receptor activator of nuclear factor-κB ligand (RANKL)-induced mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPKs) and nuclear factor (NF)-κB. As a result, LS suppressed the expression of osteoclast-associated genes, such as matrix metallopeptidase-9 (MMP-9), cathepsin K (Ctsk), tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase (TRAP), osteoclast-associated immunoglobulin-like receptor (OSCAR), c-src, c-myc, osteoclast stimulatory transmembrane protein (OC-STAMP) and ATPase H+ transporting V0 subunit d2 (ATP6v0d2). Consistent with the in vitro results, LS inhibited the reduction in bone mineral density and the bone volume/total volume ratio in a mouse model of LPS-induced osteoporosis. These results suggest that LS may be a valuable agent for the treatment of osteoporosis and additional bone metabolic diseases.

Peanut leaf extract has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity but no acute toxic effects

Arachis hypogaea L. (peanut) leaves have been popularly used for the treatment of insomnia and inflammation, but no toxicological study has been performed for this plant preparation. This study aimed to examine the phytochemical composition of peanut leaf hydroalcoholic extract (PLHE) and describe its potential toxic effects and antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. The qualitative chemical analysis of PLHE by UHPLC-ESI-HRMS allowed the identification of eight metabolites types (totaling 29 compounds). The 1,1-diphenyl-2-picryl-hydrazyl (DPPH) assay revealed that PLHE had strong antioxidant effects; it also exhibited nitric oxide (NO)-scavenging capacity. Human peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) exposed to PLHE showed no reduced cell viability or increased free double-stranded DNA, NO, or reactive species production. PLHE reversed the cytotoxicity, pro-inflammatory (release of interleukin-1β), and pro-oxidant effects of H₂O₂ on human PBMCs. Acute PLHE toxicity analysis was performed in vivo using the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) 423 guidelines. PLHE single injection (2000 mg/kg, intragastric) did not cause mortality or morbidity or induce changes in hematological or biochemical parameters after 14 days of administration. Thus, PLHE could be a source of bioactive compounds and possesses antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties without elicitin cytotoxicity or genotoxicity in human PBMCs or acute toxicity in rats.

In Vivo Evaluation of Antirrhinum majus' Wound-Healing Activity

Mediterranean-native perennial plant Antirrhinum majus was scrutinized in this study for its antioxidant activity and its total phenolic content in order to test for the plant's wound-healing capability. The traditional uses of this plant to treat gum scurvy, various tumors, ulcers, and hemorrhoids were the main idea behind this study. Leaves and flowers of the A. majus were extracted by maceration. Pilot qualitative phytochemical tests were made to check the presence of various secondary metabolites. Quantitatively, the flowers' macerate indicated superlative results regarding antioxidant activity and total phenolic content. However, the in vivo wound-healing capability study was made using 30 Wistar strain albino rats. This innovative part of the study revealed that the healing power of the flowers' extract ointment (5% w/w) was superior compared to the leaves' extract (5% w/w) and the positive-control ointments (MEBO) (1.5% w/w) (p ≤ 0.001). This activity was assessed by visual examination, wound-length measurement, and estimation of hydroxyproline content. Antirrhinum majus is a promising plant to be considered for wound healing. However, further testing (including histological examination and high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) analysis) is necessary to understand more about its mechanisms of action.

Phenolic Compounds in Organic and Aqueous Extracts from Acacia farnesiana Pods Analyzed by ULPS-ESI-Q-oa/TOF-MS. In Vitro Antioxidant Activity and Anti-Inflammatory Response in CD-1 Mice

BACKGROUND

Acacia farnesiana (AF) pods have been traditionally used to treat dyspepsia, diarrhea and topically for dermal inflammation. Main objectives: (1) investigate the antioxidant activity and protection against oxidative-induced damage of six extracts from AF pods and (2) their capacity to curb the inflammation process as well as to down-regulate the pro-inflammatory mediators.

METHODS

Five organic extracts (chloroformic, hexanic, ketonic, methanolic, methanolic:aqueous and one aqueous extract) were obtained and analyzed by UPLC-ESI-Q-oa/TOF-MS. Antioxidant activity (DPPH•, ORAC and FRAP assays) and lipid peroxidation (TBARS assay) were performed. Assessment of anti-inflammatory properties was made by the ear edema induced model in CD-1 mice and MPO activity assay. Likewise, histological analysis, IL-1β, IL-6, IL-10, TNF-α, COX measurements plus nitrite and immunohistochemistry analysis were carried out.

RESULTS

Methyl gallate, gallic acid, galloyl glucose isomer 1, galloyl glucose isomer 2, galloyl glucose isomer 3, digalloyl glucose isomer 1, digalloyl glucose isomer 2, digalloyl glucose isomer 3, digalloyl glucose isomer 4, hydroxytyrosol acetate, quinic acid, and caffeoylmalic acid were identified. Both organic and aqueous extracts displayed antioxidant activity. All extracts exhibited a positive effect on the interleukins, COX and immunohistochemistry assays.

CONCLUSION

All AF pod extracts can be effective as antioxidant and topical anti-inflammatory agents.

Evaluation of the antinociceptive and anti-inflammatory activities of piperic acid: Involvement of the cholinergic and vanilloid systems

Piperin is the active compound of black pepper (Piper nigrum). From the piperine was obtained the molecule of the piperic acid (PAC). The objective of this study was to evaluate the antinociceptive and anti-inflammatory of the compound. The antinociceptive effects of PAC were evaluated by abdominal writhing, formalin, capsaicin and tail-flick tests; while the anti-inflammatory effects were evaluated by paw oedema and air pouch tests, and in vitro COX inhibition assay. The possible action mechanism of PAC was evaluated using naloxone, L-NAME, glibenclamide and atropine in tail flick test and by Cholinesterase activity assay and production of TNF-α and IL-1β. PAC significantly reduced the nociceptive effects induced by acetic acid or formalin in mice. PAC also demonstrated an antinociceptive effect in the tail-flick model. The muscarinic receptor antagonist, atropine reduced the antinociceptive effect of PAC in the tail-flick model. PAC was able to inhibit capsaicin-induced nociception, showing involvement of TRPV1. The compound did not alter the motor capacity of the animals, not interfering in the nociceptive response. PAC also showed anti- inflammatory activity by inhibiting the formation of carrageenan-induced paw oedema, leukocyte migration, and cytokine production / release. Atropine reduced the activity of PAC on leukocyte migration, and cytokine production. The compound showed to be able to reduce the cytokine production stimulated by capsaicin. PAC inhibited the COX activity. The results presented suggest that the possible cholinomimetic action and vanilloid agonist of the piperic acid may be responsible by antinociceptive and anti- inflammatory effects; these effects are devoid of toxicity.

An In Vitro Estimation of the Cytotoxicity and Genotoxicity of Root Extract from Leonurus sibiricus L. Overexpressing AtPAP1 against Different Cancer Cell Lines

As the current cancer treatment success rate is not sufficient, interest has grown in plants as possible sources of anti-cancer compounds. One such plant with a broad spectrum of activity is Lenourus sibiricus of the family Lamiaceae. This study investigates for the first time both the genotoxic and cytotoxic activities of TR (transformed) and AtPAP1 TR (with over-expression of transcriptional factor) root extracts of Lenourus sibiricus against various cancer cell lines (CCRF-CEM, K-562 and A549). Both tested extracts showed a cytotoxic effect on CCRF-CEM and K-562 cell lines, but strongest activity was observed for the AtPAP1 TR extract. No cytotoxic effect was observed against the A549 cell line in the tested concentration range, and it was found that both tested extracts may induce apoptosis by decreasing mitochondrial membrane potential and inducing nDNA damage lesion in the TP53 region and mtDNA in ND1 (mitochondrially encoded NADH: ubiquinone oxidoreductase core subunit 1) and ND5 (mitochondrially encoded NADH:ubiquinone oxidoreductase core subunit 5) regions in K-562 and CCRF-CEM. Our results confirmed that TR and AtPAP1 TR root extracts from L. sibiricus are cytotoxic and genotoxic against different model cell lines (CCRF-CEM and K-562). However, the observed genotoxicity of both extracts needs to be confirmed by additional studies. These preclinical observations support the use of L. sibiricus with other pharmacological purposes.

Simultaneous optimization of ultrasonic-assisted extraction of antioxidant and anticoagulation activities of compounds from Leonurus japonicus Houtt. by response surface methodology

Leonurus japonicus Houtt. is a herbaceous annual of the Lamiaceae family with pantropical distribution; it is called motherwort in China. It plays important roles in anticoagulation and antioxidation. This study aimed to explore the optimization of ultrasound-assisted extraction of multiple compounds from motherwort as well as their antioxidant and anticoagulation activities using response surface methodology. Box–Behnken design was employed to optimize three significant influences, namely extraction time, extraction temperature and ethanol concentration. The optimum extraction parameters acquired based on a combination of the yield of the target compounds and their antioxidant and anticoagulation activities were an extraction time of 38.2 min, an extraction temperature of 30.0 °C, an ethanol concentration of 48.9% (v/v), a solid–liquid ratio of 30.0 mL g⁻¹ and an ultrasonic power of 500.0 W. Under the optimal conditions, the maximal yield of the anticoagulation and antioxidant compounds of motherwort was 0.994%; the thrombin time was 19.872 s; prothrombin time was 8.270 s; the activated partial thromboplastin time was 15.535 s; the fibrinogen was 1.420 g L⁻¹; and the 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl free radical scavenging activity was 1.503 mg mL⁻¹. The optimized conditions model showed a good correlation between the predicted and experimental values. According to the results of our study, the optimization extraction significantly enabled study of the anticoagulation and antioxidant activities of compounds in motherwort; this may contribute to future research on the pharmacological activities of motherwort.

Leonurus japonicus Houtt. is a herbaceous annual of the Lamiaceae family with pantropical distribution; it is called motherwort in China.