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Chang J, Wang J, Li X, Zhong Y. Predicting prospective therapeutic targets of Bombyx batryticatus for managing diabetic kidney disease through network pharmacology analysis. Medicine (Baltimore) 2024; 103:e39598. [PMID: 39287308 PMCID: PMC11404872 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000039598] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/19/2024] Open
Abstract
We conducted network pharmacology and molecular docking analyses, and executed in vitro experiments to assess the mechanisms and prospective targets associated with the bioactive components of Bombyx batryticatus in the treatment of diabetic kidney disease (DKD). The bioactive components and potential targets of B batryticatus were sourced from the Traditional Chinese Medicine Systems Pharmacology Database and Analysis Platform. Using 5 disease databases, we conducted a comprehensive screening of potential disease targets specifically associated with DKD. Common targets shared between the bioactive components and disease targets were identified through the use of the R package, and subsequently, a protein-protein interaction network was established using data from the STRING database. Gene Ontology and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes enrichment analyses pertaining to the identified common targets were conducted using the Database for Annotation, Visualization, and Integrated Discovery. Molecular docking simulations involving the bioactive components and their corresponding targets were modeled through AutoDock Vina and Pymol. Finally, to corroborate and validate these findings, experimental assays at the cellular level were conducted. Six bioactive compounds and 142 associated targets were identified for B batryticatus. Among the 796 disease targets associated with DKD, 56 targets were identified. Gene Ontology and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes pathway analyses revealed the involvement of these shared targets in diverse biological processes and signaling pathways, notably the PI3K-Akt signaling pathway. Molecular docking analyses indicated a favorable binding interaction between quercetin, the principal bioactive compound in B batryticatus, and RAC-alpha serine/threonine-protein kinase. Subsequently, in vitro experiments substantiated the inhibitory effect of quercetin on the phosphorylation level of PI3K and Akt. The present study provides theoretical evidence for a comprehensive exploration of the mechanisms and molecular targets by which B batryticatus imparts protective effects against DKD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jingsheng Chang
- Department of Nephrology, Longhua Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Municipal Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Jue Wang
- Department of Nephrology, Longhua Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Xueling Li
- Department of Nephrology, Longhua Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Yifei Zhong
- Department of Nephrology, Longhua Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shanghai, China
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Gutiérrez-Cuevas J, López-Cifuentes D, Sandoval-Rodriguez A, García-Bañuelos J, Armendariz-Borunda J. Medicinal Plant Extracts against Cardiometabolic Risk Factors Associated with Obesity: Molecular Mechanisms and Therapeutic Targets. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2024; 17:967. [PMID: 39065815 PMCID: PMC11280341 DOI: 10.3390/ph17070967] [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: 07/01/2024] [Revised: 07/16/2024] [Accepted: 07/18/2024] [Indexed: 07/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Obesity has increasingly become a worldwide epidemic, as demonstrated by epidemiological and clinical studies. Obesity may lead to the development of a broad spectrum of cardiovascular diseases (CVDs), such as coronary heart disease, hypertension, heart failure, cerebrovascular disease, atrial fibrillation, ventricular arrhythmias, and sudden cardiac death. In addition to hypertension, there are other cardiometabolic risk factors (CRFs) such as visceral adiposity, dyslipidemia, insulin resistance, diabetes, elevated levels of fibrinogen and C-reactive protein, and others, all of which increase the risk of CVD events. The mechanisms involved between obesity and CVD mainly include insulin resistance, oxidative stress, inflammation, and adipokine dysregulation, which cause maladaptive structural and functional alterations of the heart, particularly left-ventricular remodeling and diastolic dysfunction. Natural products of plants provide a diversity of nutrients and different bioactive compounds, including phenolics, flavonoids, terpenoids, carotenoids, anthocyanins, vitamins, minerals, fibers, and others, which possess a wide range of biological activities including antihypertensive, antilipidemic, antidiabetic, and other activities, thus conferring cardiometabolic benefits. In this review, we discuss the main therapeutic interventions using extracts from herbs and plants in preclinical and clinical trials with protective properties targeting CRFs. Molecular mechanisms and therapeutic targets of herb and plant extracts for the prevention and treatment of CRFs are also reviewed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jorge Gutiérrez-Cuevas
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genomics, Institute for Molecular Biology in Medicine and Gene Therapy, University Center of Health Sciences, University of Guadalajara, Guadalajara 44340, Jalisco, Mexico; (D.L.-C.); (A.S.-R.); (J.A.-B.)
| | - Daniel López-Cifuentes
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genomics, Institute for Molecular Biology in Medicine and Gene Therapy, University Center of Health Sciences, University of Guadalajara, Guadalajara 44340, Jalisco, Mexico; (D.L.-C.); (A.S.-R.); (J.A.-B.)
- Doctorate in Sciences in Molecular Biology in Medicine, University Center of Health Sciences, University of Guadalajara, Guadalajara 44340, Jalisco, Mexico
| | - Ana Sandoval-Rodriguez
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genomics, Institute for Molecular Biology in Medicine and Gene Therapy, University Center of Health Sciences, University of Guadalajara, Guadalajara 44340, Jalisco, Mexico; (D.L.-C.); (A.S.-R.); (J.A.-B.)
| | - Jesús García-Bañuelos
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genomics, Institute for Molecular Biology in Medicine and Gene Therapy, University Center of Health Sciences, University of Guadalajara, Guadalajara 44340, Jalisco, Mexico; (D.L.-C.); (A.S.-R.); (J.A.-B.)
| | - Juan Armendariz-Borunda
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genomics, Institute for Molecular Biology in Medicine and Gene Therapy, University Center of Health Sciences, University of Guadalajara, Guadalajara 44340, Jalisco, Mexico; (D.L.-C.); (A.S.-R.); (J.A.-B.)
- Escuela de Medicina y Ciencias de la Salud (EMCS), Tecnologico de Monterrey, Campus Guadalajara, Zapopan 45201, Jalisco, Mexico
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Ziyanok-Demirtas S. Therapeutic potentials of Hibiscus trionum: Antioxidant, anti-lipid peroxidative, hypoglycemic, and hepatoprotective effects in type 1 diabetic rats. Biomed Pharmacother 2024; 175:116630. [PMID: 38677247 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2024.116630] [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: 12/31/2023] [Revised: 04/01/2024] [Accepted: 04/17/2024] [Indexed: 04/29/2024] Open
Abstract
Recent advances in diabetes treatment have primarily focused on insulin and hypoglycemic agents; however, there is growing interest in exploring herbal and synthetic alternatives. Numerous studies have highlighted the preventive effectiveness of regular plant consumption in managing chronic conditions, particularly diabetes. Hibiscus, a medicinal plant recognized in various cultures, is known for its diverse health benefits. This study investigated the impact of Hibiscus trionum on glycemic control and assessed its influence on glucose and insulin levels in diabetes-induced rats. The concentrations of antioxidant enzymes, particularly superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px), were scrutinized across multiple body tissues (plasma, heart, muscle, liver, and kidney). The malondialdehyde (MDA) concentration, an indicator of lipid peroxidation, was examined in both plasma and tissue samples. Serum total cholesterol (TC), triglyceride (TG), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), and alanine aminotransferase (ALT) levels were evaluated. Diabetic Group (D) exhibited a significant decrease in body weight, increased fluid and food consumption, elevated blood glucose levels, and increased antioxidant enzyme activity. Moreover, the diabetic group also showed increased levels of MDA, TC, TG, AST, and ALT, along with reduced insulin levels, compared to the control group. A substantial improvement in all parameters impaired by diabetes was observed following the application of Hibiscus trionum (HTT) in the Diabetes+HTT group. The antioxidative stress-reducing, lipid peroxidation-improving, and hepatoprotective potential of Hibiscus trionum in mitigating diabetes-induced oxidative stress is noteworthy. These findings indicate that HTT supplementation has valuable beneficial effects in protecting against the harmful impacts of diabetes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sedef Ziyanok-Demirtas
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science and Arts, Bursa Uludag University, Bursa 16059, Turkey.
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Mohammadzadeh A, Gol A, Kheirandish R. Effects of garlic (Allium sativum L) and Citrullus colocynthis (L.) Schrad individually and in combination on male reproductive damage due to diabetes: suppression of the AGEs/RAGE/Nox-4 signaling pathway. BMC Complement Med Ther 2024; 24:149. [PMID: 38581015 PMCID: PMC10996167 DOI: 10.1186/s12906-024-04402-8] [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: 07/22/2023] [Accepted: 02/14/2024] [Indexed: 04/07/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Diabetes Mellitus is associated with disturbances in male reproductive function and fertility. Studies have shown that oxidative stress with the subsequent inflammation and apoptosis cause these complications in diabetes. Garlic (G) (Allium sativum L) and Citrullus colocynthis (L.) Schrad (C) both have antidiabetic and antioxidant properties. Recently, we demonstrated their synergistic effects in alleviating reproductive complications when administered concomitantly. However, as even medicinal plants in long term usage may lead to some unwanted side effects of their own, we examined whether with half the original doses of these two medicinal plants we could achieve the desired results. METHODS Thirty-five male Wistar rats were divided into five groups (n = 7/group): Control, Diabetic, Diabetic + G (0.5 ml/100 g BW), Diabetic + C (5 mg/kg BW) and Diabetic + GC (0.5 ml/100 g BW of garlic and 5 mg/kg BW of C. colocynthis) groups. The experimental period was 30 days. RESULTS Oxidative stress, advanced glycation end products (AGEs), immunoexpression of caspase-3, and expression of mRNAs for receptor for advanced glycation end products (RAGE), NADPH oxidase-4 (NOX-4) and nuclear factor kappa B increased in testis of diabetic rats. Treatment with garlic and C. colocynthis alone showed some beneficial effects, but in the combination form the effectiveness was more profound. CONCLUSIONS We conclude that the combination therapy of diabetic rats with lower doses is still as efficient as higher doses; therefore, the way forward for reducing complications in long term consumption.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aghileh Mohammadzadeh
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Shahid Bahonar University of Kerman, Kerman, Iran
| | - Ali Gol
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Shahid Bahonar University of Kerman, Kerman, Iran.
| | - Reza Kheirandish
- Department of Pathobiology, Veterinary Faculty, Shahid Bahonar University of Kerman, Kerman, Iran
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Cheng X, Qin M, Chen R, Jia Y, Zhu Q, Chen G, Wang A, Ling B, Rong W. Citrullus colocynthis (L.) Schrad.: A Promising Pharmaceutical Resource for Multiple Diseases. Molecules 2023; 28:6221. [PMID: 37687049 PMCID: PMC10488440 DOI: 10.3390/molecules28176221] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2023] [Revised: 08/15/2023] [Accepted: 08/17/2023] [Indexed: 09/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Citrullus colocynthis (L.) Schrad. (Cucurbitaceae) is widely distributed in the desert areas of the world. The fruit bodies of C. colocynthis are recognized for their wide range of nutraceutical potential, as well as medicinal and pharmaceutical uses. The plant has been reported for various uses, such as asthma, bronchitis, cancer, colic, common cold, cough, diabetes, dysentery, and jaundice. The fruit has been extensively studied for its biological activities, which include insecticide, antitumor, and antidiabetic effects. Numerous bioactive compounds have been reported in its fruit bodies, such as essential oils, fatty acids, glycosides, alkaloids, and flavonoids. Of these, flavonoids or caffeic acid derivatives are the constituents associated with the inhibition of fungal or bacterial growth, whereas eudesmane sesquiterpenes or sesquiterpene lactones are most active against insects, mites, and nematodes. In this review, the scientific evidence for the biological activity of C. colocynthis against insecticide, cytotoxic, and antidiabetic effects is summarized.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaotian Cheng
- School of Pharmacy, Nantong University, Nantong 226001, China; (X.C.)
- Department of Pharmacy, The Fourth Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University & The First People’s Hospital of Yancheng, Yancheng 224001, China
| | - Minni Qin
- School of Pharmacy, Nantong University, Nantong 226001, China; (X.C.)
| | - Rongrong Chen
- School of Pharmacy, Nantong University, Nantong 226001, China; (X.C.)
| | - Yunxia Jia
- School of Pharmacy, Nantong University, Nantong 226001, China; (X.C.)
| | - Qing Zhu
- School of Pharmacy, Nantong University, Nantong 226001, China; (X.C.)
| | - Guangtong Chen
- School of Pharmacy, Nantong University, Nantong 226001, China; (X.C.)
| | - Andong Wang
- School of Pharmacy, Nantong University, Nantong 226001, China; (X.C.)
| | - Bai Ling
- Department of Pharmacy, The Fourth Affiliated Hospital of Nantong University & The First People’s Hospital of Yancheng, Yancheng 224001, China
| | - Weiwei Rong
- School of Pharmacy, Nantong University, Nantong 226001, China; (X.C.)
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Mazher M, Ishtiaq M, Hamid B, Haq SM, Mazhar A, Bashir F, Mazhar M, Mahmoud EA, Casini R, Alataway A, Dewidar AZ, Elansary HO. Biosynthesis and Characterization of Calcium Oxide Nanoparticles from Citrullus colocynthis Fruit Extracts; Their Biocompatibility and Bioactivities. MATERIALS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2023; 16:2768. [PMID: 37049061 PMCID: PMC10096045 DOI: 10.3390/ma16072768] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2023] [Revised: 03/24/2023] [Accepted: 03/28/2023] [Indexed: 06/19/2023]
Abstract
Modern nanotechnology encompasses every field of life. Nowadays, phytochemically fabricated nanoparticles are being widely studied for their bioactivities and biosafety. The present research studied the synthesis, characterization, stability, biocompatibility, and in vitro bioactivities of calcium oxide nanoparticles (CaONPs). The CaONPs were synthesized using Citrullus colocynthis ethanolic fruit extracts. Greenly synthesized nanoparticles had an average size of 35.93 ± 2.54 nm and showed an absorbance peak at 325 nm. An absorbance peak in this range depicts the coating of phenolic acids, flavones, flavonols, and flavonoids on the surface of CaONPs. The XRD pattern showed sharp peaks that illustrated the preferred cubic crystalline nature of triturate. A great hindrance to the use of nanoparticles in the field of medicine is their extremely reactive nature. The FTIR analysis of the CaONPs showed a coating of phytochemicals on their surface, due to which they showed great stability. The vibrations present at 3639 cm-1 for alcohols or phenols, 2860 cm-1 for alkanes, 2487 cm-1 for alkynes, 1625 cm-1 for amines, and 1434 cm-1 for carboxylic acids and aldehydes show adsorption of phytochemicals on the surface of CaONPs. The CaONPs were highly stable over time; however, their stability was slightly disturbed by varying salinity and pH. The dialysis membrane in vitro release analysis revealed consistent nanoparticle release over a 10-h period. The bioactivities of CaONPs, C. colocynthis fruit extracts, and their synergistic solution were assessed. Synergistic solutions of both CaONPs and C. colocynthis fruit extracts showed great bioactivity and biosafety. The synergistic solution reduced cell viability by only 14.68% and caused only 16% hemolysis. The synergistic solution inhibited Micrococcus luteus slightly more effectively than streptomycin, with an activity index of 1.02. It also caused an 83.87% reduction in free radicals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mubsher Mazher
- Department of Botany, Mirpur University of Science and Technology (MUST), Mirpur 10040, Pakistan; (M.I.); (F.B.); (M.M.)
| | - Muhammad Ishtiaq
- Department of Botany, Mirpur University of Science and Technology (MUST), Mirpur 10040, Pakistan; (M.I.); (F.B.); (M.M.)
| | - Bilqeesa Hamid
- Department of Chemistry, University of Kashmir Srinagar, Srinagar 190006, India;
| | - Shiekh Marifatul Haq
- Department of Ethnobotany, Institute of Botany, Ilia State University, Tbilisi 0162, Georgia;
| | - Atiya Mazhar
- Department of Chemistry, Government Post Graduate College for Women, Bhimber 10038, Pakistan;
| | - Faiza Bashir
- Department of Botany, Mirpur University of Science and Technology (MUST), Mirpur 10040, Pakistan; (M.I.); (F.B.); (M.M.)
- Biological Research Center, Institute of Plant Biology, 6726 Szeged, Hungary
| | - Mussaddaq Mazhar
- Department of Botany, Mirpur University of Science and Technology (MUST), Mirpur 10040, Pakistan; (M.I.); (F.B.); (M.M.)
| | - Eman A. Mahmoud
- Department of Food Industries, Faculty of Agriculture, Damietta University, Damietta 34511, Egypt;
| | - Ryan Casini
- School of Public Health, University of California, 2121 Berkeley Way, Berkeley, CA 94704, USA;
| | - Abed Alataway
- Prince Sultan Bin Abdulaziz International Prize for Water Chair, Prince Sultan Institute for Environmental, Water and Desert Research, King Saud University, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia; (A.A.); (A.Z.D.)
| | - Ahmed Z. Dewidar
- Prince Sultan Bin Abdulaziz International Prize for Water Chair, Prince Sultan Institute for Environmental, Water and Desert Research, King Saud University, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia; (A.A.); (A.Z.D.)
- Department of Agricultural Engineering, College of Food and Agriculture Sciences, King Saud University, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia
| | - Hosam O. Elansary
- Prince Sultan Bin Abdulaziz International Prize for Water Chair, Prince Sultan Institute for Environmental, Water and Desert Research, King Saud University, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia; (A.A.); (A.Z.D.)
- Department of Plant Production, College of Food & Agriculture Sciences, King Saud University, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia
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Rao V, Poonia A. Citrullus colocynthis (bitter apple): bioactive compounds, nutritional profile, nutraceutical properties and potential food applications: a review. FOOD PRODUCTION, PROCESSING AND NUTRITION 2023. [DOI: 10.1186/s43014-022-00118-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
AbstractHerbal remedies and related foods provide healing properties for a range of diseases, resulting in a higher standard of living. Bitter apple is extremely beneficial due to its bioactive and nutraceutical compounds. Increasing awareness among consumers across the world about this unique fruit’s properties may provide huge opportunities for the supplier of herbal products as well as their use in the food industry. It has significant applications in the field of food technology. This review focused on the important features of bitter apple mainly, bioactive compounds, their mode of action, medical applications, chemical characteristics, chemical compounds, and the latest research on the pharmacological interventions of bitter apple extracts. This review also highlights the potential use of bitter apples in the food industry as well as their application in nanotechnology for the formation of nanoparticles.
Graphical Abstract
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Omale S, Amagon KI, Johnson TO, Bremner SK, Gould GW. A systematic analysis of anti-diabetic medicinal plants from cells to clinical trials. PeerJ 2023; 11:e14639. [PMID: 36627919 PMCID: PMC9826616 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.14639] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2022] [Accepted: 12/05/2022] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Diabetes is one of the fastest-growing health emergencies of the 21st century, placing a severe economic burden on many countries. Current management approaches have improved diabetic care, but several limitations still exist, such as decreased efficacy, adverse effects, and the high cost of treatment, particularly for developing nations. There is, therefore, a need for more cost-effective therapies for diabetes management. The evidence-based application of phytochemicals from plants in the management of diseases is gaining traction. Methodology Various plants and plant parts have been investigated as antidiabetic agents. This review sought to collate and discuss published data on the cellular and molecular effects of medicinal plants and phytochemicals on insulin signaling pathways to better understand the current trend in using plant products in the management of diabetes. Furthermore, we explored available information on medicinal plants that consistently produced hypoglycemic effects from isolated cells to animal studies and clinical trials. Results There is substantial literature describing the effects of a range of plant extracts on insulin action and insulin signaling, revealing a depth in knowledge of molecular detail. Our exploration also reveals effective antidiabetic actions in animal studies, and clear translational potential evidenced by clinical trials. Conclusion We suggest that this area of research should be further exploited in the search for novel therapeutics for diabetes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simeon Omale
- African Centre for Excellence in Phytomedicine, University of Jos, Jos, Nigeria
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Jos, Jos, Nigeria
| | - Kennedy I. Amagon
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Jos, Jos, Nigeria
| | - Titilayo O. Johnson
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Jos, Jos, Nigeria
| | - Shaun Kennedy Bremner
- Strathclyde Institute of Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences, University of Strathclyde, Glasgow, United Kingdom
| | - Gwyn W. Gould
- Strathclyde Institute of Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences, University of Strathclyde, Glasgow, United Kingdom
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Mohammadzadeh A, Gol A. Synergistic properties of garlic and Citrullus colocynthis on reproductive injury caused by diabetes in male rats: Structural and molecular evidence. J Food Biochem 2022; 46:e14467. [PMID: 36219760 DOI: 10.1111/jfbc.14467] [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: 07/22/2022] [Revised: 09/20/2022] [Accepted: 09/24/2022] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
This study evaluates the synergistic effect of garlic and Citrullus colocynthis on diabetic reproductive damage by suppressing the AGEs/RAGE/Nox-4 signaling pathway. Thirty-five male Wistar rats were divided into five groups (n = 7/group): Control, Diabetic, Diabetic+G (Garlic, 1 mL/100 g b.w), Diabetic+C (C. colocynthis, 10 mg/kg b.w) and Diabetic+GC (Garlic, 1 mL/100 g b.w and C. colocynthis, 10 mg/kg b.w) groups. At the end of the experimental period (30 days), in diabetic rats, glucose increased, and body & testis weight, luteinizing hormone (LH) and testosterone levels, and sperm count decreased significantly and histopathological injuries were observed. In addition, they have increased testicular apoptosis and oxidative stress. Also, the mechanism based on advanced glycation end products (AGEs)/receptors for advanced glycation end products (RAGE)/NADPH oxidase-4 (Nox-4) was activated in diabetic rats. Separate consumption of garlic and C. colocynthis in Diabetic+G and Diabetic+C groups alleviated the negative adverse effect of diabetes to some extent, but when they were used in the combination form (Diabetic+GC) improvement was profound. Testis histopathology, increased body and testis weight, and enhanced capacity in protecting diabetic reproductive injury was seen. Decreases in testosterone and LH concentration and sperm count in diabetic rats were also reversed by combined administration of garlic and C. colocynthis. It regulated oxidative stress markers, meanwhile reducing caspase-3 immunoexpression. In addition, overexpression of RAGE, Nox-4 and nuclear transcription factor-κB (NF-κB) was inhibited by the combination of garlic and C. colocynthis. PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS: Diabetes mellitus is wide spread all around the world with variety of complications in body including reproductive system in which patients suffer from physical and psychological aspects. Despite many efforts in providing agents for controlling diabetes and its complications, economic conditions of some countries make it difficult for people to provide costly medicine and as a result, they have to bear the complications until they pass away. However, traditional medicine is still finding its way, especially in poor countries with emphasis on medicinal plants. There have been many studies on plants to alleviate diabetes or its side effects. But, using one plant for long term, may be not so effective. Here, we attempted to find whether two plants from two different species can show more efficacy than each one alone. We noticed garlic and Citrullus colocynthis despite having beneficial effects when used alone, they could show synergistic effects in combination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aghileh Mohammadzadeh
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Shahid Bahonar University of Kerman, Kerman, Iran
| | - Ali Gol
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Shahid Bahonar University of Kerman, Kerman, Iran
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Anti-Diabetic Effects of Cucurbitacins from Ibervillea lindheimeri on Induced Mouse Diabetes. J CHEM-NY 2022. [DOI: 10.1155/2022/3379557] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Mexico has a great tradition of using medicinal plants against diabetes. For example, species from the genus Ibervillea traditionally known as “wereque” in Mexican popular medicine have a long ethnobotanical history as anti-diabetic agents. Previous studies by our group indicated that ethyl acetate extract from Ibervillea lindheimeri (I. lindheimeri) roots reduced glucose in mice with chemically induced diabetes. In this work, the primary metabolites of the ethyl acetate extract of I. lindheimeri; 23,24-dihydrocucurbitacin D (1); 2-O-β glucopyranosyl-23,24-dihydrocucurbitacin D (2), and acetylated compounds (3) and (4) obtained from 1 and 2, respectively, were evaluated as anti-hyperglycemic agents in a murine model of chemically induced diabetes. Our results showed that cucurbitacins 1, 2, and 4 reduced glycemia in diabetic CD1 mice compared to the control diabetic group. In addition, the results suggest that compounds 1, 2, and 4 promote glucose transporter type 4 (Glut4) translocation to the plasma membrane (PM) mainly in epididymal adipose tissue (EAT), AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) activation in soleus muscle (SM) or dual activation of AMPK, and protein kinase B (AKT) in EAT in an insulin-independent manner when compared to controls. All results together indicate that the isolated cucurbitacins are responsible for the anti-diabetic properties of I. lindheimeri acting predominantly on adipose tissue and call attention to this species as a new source of anti-diabetic compounds.
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Li QY, Munawar M, Saeed M, Shen JQ, Khan MS, Noreen S, Alagawany M, Naveed M, Madni A, Li CX. Citrullus colocynthis (L.) Schrad (Bitter Apple Fruit): Promising Traditional Uses, Pharmacological Effects, Aspects, and Potential Applications. Front Pharmacol 2022; 12:791049. [PMID: 35145403 PMCID: PMC8821906 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2021.791049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2021] [Accepted: 12/09/2021] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Health consciousness and increased knowledge about the side effects of synthetic drugs have enhanced interest in traditional medicines. Medicinal plants offer cures for various diseases, leading to improved living standards. This has brought ethnomedicinal studies into the spotlight and increased demand for herb-based medicines. Citrullus colocynthis is an herbaceous plant containing an abundance of nutrients that play a key role in the improvement of wellbeing. C. colocynthis has many biological properties, such as antioxidative, hypoglycemic, antibacterial, anti-cancerous, anti-inflammatory, analgesic, gastrointestinal tract, reproduction, protection, anti-microbial, antidiabetic, hypolipidemic, antineoplastic, profibrinolytic, anti-allergic, pesticidal, and immune-stimulatory. There are numerous bioactive compounds like cucurbitacin, flavonoids, and polyphenols in C. colocynthis that give it medicinal properties. Herein, we have extensively compiled, reviewed, and analyzed significant information on C. colocynthhis from the best published available evidence in PubMed, Scopus (Embase), Web of Science (Web of Knowledge), Cochrane Library, and Google Scholar, etc. Scientific literature evidenced that owing to the bioactive constituents, including cucurbitacin, polyphenols, flavonoids, and other potent molecules, C. colocynthis has many pharmacological and physiological functions. It possesses multi-beneficial applications in treating various disorders of humans and animals. So, the primary purpose of this comprehensive review is to provide an overview of the findings of positive impacts and risks of C. colocynthis consumption on human health, especially in poultry and veterinary fields. In the future, this narrative article will be aware of discoveries about the potential of this promising natural fruit and its bioactive compounds as the best nutraceuticals and therapeutic drugs in veterinary and human medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qin-Yuan Li
- Department of Human Anatomy, Medical Institute of Qinghai University, Xining, China
| | - Mahzaib Munawar
- Department of Poultry and Animal Breeding, Faculty of Animal Production and Technology, The Cholistan University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Bahawalpur, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Saeed
- Department of Poultry and Animal Breeding, Faculty of Animal Production and Technology, The Cholistan University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Bahawalpur, Pakistan
| | - Ji-Qiang Shen
- Department of Human Anatomy, Medical Institute of Qinghai University, Xining, China
| | - Muhammad Sajjad Khan
- Department of Poultry and Animal Breeding, Faculty of Animal Production and Technology, The Cholistan University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Bahawalpur, Pakistan
| | - Sobia Noreen
- Faculty of Pharmacy, The Islamia University of Bahawalpur, Bahawalpur, Pakistan
| | - Mahmoud Alagawany
- Department of Poultry, Faculty of Agriculture, Zagazig University, Zagazig, Egypt
| | - Muhammad Naveed
- School of Pharmacy, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Asadullah Madni
- Faculty of Pharmacy, The Islamia University of Bahawalpur, Bahawalpur, Pakistan
| | - Chang-Xing Li
- Department of Human Anatomy, Medical Institute of Qinghai University, Xining, China
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Differential expression of gluconeogenic enzymes in early- and late-stage diabetes: the effect of Citrullus colocynthis (L.) Schrad. Seed extract on hyperglycemia and hyperlipidemia in Wistar-Albino rats model. CLINICAL PHYTOSCIENCE 2021. [DOI: 10.1186/s40816-021-00324-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Background
The medicinal plant Citrullus colocynthis (L.) Schrad. (C. colocynthis) may benefit patients at different phases of diabetes by attuning to contrasting situations. Our primary objective was to find the mechanism(s) behind the antidiabetic/anti-hyperlipidemic effects of C.colocynthis seed aqueous extract (CCAE) in two different stages of type 2 diabetes (T2D) in rats.
Methods
Fasting blood sugar (FBS) levels, body weights, and the degree of impaired glucose tolerance (IGT) were measured in healthy nondiabetic control rats (Con), as well as rats with early and late stages of T2D, denoted as ET2D and LT2D, respectively. CCAE was intraperitoneally (IP) injected for 28 days. In the end, the hepatic mRNA expression levels of the following genes were determined by RT-PCR: glucose-6-phosphatase (G6Pase), phosphoenolpyruvate carboxykinase (PEPCK), insulin-dependent sterol regulatory element-binding protein-1c (SREBP-1c), acetyl-CoA carboxylase (ACC), fatty acid synthase (FAS), peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor alpha (PPARα), and carnitine palmitoyltransferase I (CPT1). The liver was examined by hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) and Oil-Red O staining. CCAE was partially analyzed by HPLC-DAD.
Results
ET2D and LT2D were characterized by differentially elevated FBS, deteriorated bodyweight, and significant IGT compared to Con. Hepatosteatoses of varying morphologies and higher hepatic expression of G6Pase than PRPCK in ET2D versus the opposite in LT2D further confirmed the divergent nature of metabolic aberrations. At the end of 28 days, the high levels of FBS, alkaline phosphatase (ALP), triglyceride (TG), urea, hepatic protein carbonyl content (PCC), and alanine and aspartate aminotransferases (AST and ALT, respectively) persisted in untreated LT2D. CCAE ameliorated oxidative stress and upregulated PPARα expression in diabetic groups and Con; it downregulated CPT1 expression in the LT2D group. CCAE’s ability to lower FBS and serum and hepatic TG in both ET2D and LT2D indicated its ability to act via different mechanisms. Ferulic acid (Fer A) and rutin hydrate (RH) were detected in CCAE.
Conclusion
CCAE lowered the FBS in ET2D via inhibiting the hepatic G6Pase expression (glycogenolysis). In LT2D, CCAE abated sugar levels by diverting PEPCK activity, preferably towards glyceroneogenesis than gluconeogenesis. The preserved triglyceride/fatty acid (TG/FA) cycle, the upregulated PPARα, and the downregulated CPT1 gene expressions reduced serum and hepatic TG.
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