Organosulfur compounds and possible mechanism of garlic in cancer

Antimicrobial effect of garlic against foodborne pathogens in ground mutton

The antimicrobial effect of fresh garlic (20, 30, and 50 g/kg) and the equivalent concentrations of garlic oil (80, 120, and 200 mg/kg) was investigated in ground mutton during storage at 4 °C. By day 6 and thereafter, mutton meatballs treated with 50 g/kg of fresh garlic and 200 mg/kg garlic oil exhibited a significant decline in psychrotrophic and Pseudomonas counts in comparison with control. Fresh garlic added at a concentration of 50 g/kg exhibited the highest antimicrobial effect, followed by garlic oil at 200 mg/kg, fresh garlic at 30 g/kg, and garlic oil at 120 mg/kg. By the 15th day of storage, the fresh garlic added at concentrations of 50 and 30 g/kg and garlic oil added at concentrations of 120, and 200 mg/kg inactivated the populations of foodborne pathogens artificially inoculated into ground mutton and exhibited significant (P < 0.01) lower counts in Salmonella Typhimurium, Escherichia coli O157:H7, Listeria monocytogenes, and Staphylococcus aureus by more than 3 logs CFU/g, in comparison to control. Therefore, fresh garlic and garlic oil can be used as natural antimicrobial food additives to extend the shelf life and inactivate the populations of foodborne pathogens in meat products.

Content of amino acids and biogenic amines in stored meat as a result of a broiler diet supplemented with β-alanine and garlic extract

Poultry meat is a highly esteemed product among consumers. However, the emphasis on increasing body weight has led to a rise in the proportion of rapidly shrinking fibers, adversely affecting the quality and shelf life of poultry meat. With a growing awareness of dietetics among consumers, there is an increasing challenge to produce chicken meat that is not only free of antibiotics but also beneficial for dietary and health reasons. Biogenic amines (BA) can serve as indicators of meat freshness and quality. While they play vital roles in the body, excessive consumption of BA can have toxic and carcinogenic effects. The objective of this study was to examine the impact of supplementing feed with garlic extract and β-alanine (β-Ala) on the formation of BA and amino acid (AA) levels in the breast and leg muscles of chickens stored under aerobic chilling conditions. The muscles were obtained from chickens fed with garlic extract and β-Ala in quantities of 0.5 and 2% for each additive, as well as 0.5 and 2% of their combination. Analyses were conducted on d 1, 3, 5, 7, and 10 of storage. β-Ala supplementation increased the proportion of this AA in breast (P < 0.01) and leg muscles (P < 0.01), along with a rise in the proportion of nonessential AA (NEAA; sum of aspartic, aspartic acid, glutamic, glutamic acid, serine, β-Ala, and proline) (P < 0.01). The levels of BA changed during storage in breast and leg muscles (P < 0.001). The applied diet significantly influenced the formation of putrescine (P = 0.030), phenylethylamine (P = 0.003), agmatine (P = 0.025), and total BA (P < 0.001) in breast muscles. On the 10 d of storage, the breast muscles exhibited the lowest BA index (BAI) in the group, with a diet supplemented with 0.5% garlic extract and 0.5% β-Ala (P < 0.05). The leg muscles showed a similar BA trend as the breast muscles. These supplements may be utilized in production to augment the protein content of chicken muscles and potentially decrease the BAI index during meat storage.

Deployment of in-silico analysis to reveal the antibacterial profiles of Allium sativum against Aeromonas hydrophila

The key challenges in aquaculture are the emergence of antimicrobial resistance in fish cultivation due to the frequent use of antibiotics. Over the past three decades, this led to a major threat in the persistence of multidrug-resistant bacteria. Aeromonas hydrophila is a Gram-negative bacterium, a common causative agent of motile bacterial septicemia in fisheries. Combining these two key factors of the presented narrative, the essential type II topoisomerase enzyme 'DNA gyrase' (encoded by the gyrA and gyrB genes) as a potential drug target in Aeromonas hydrophila was taken, retrieve its sequence from UniProtKB (Id-A0KKQ2), constructs the 3-D structure using SWISS-MODEL (in absence of the experimental structure), and performs an in-silico screening of selected drug-like compounds (25 antibacterial phytochemicals) most of which are bioactive compounds of A. sativum through molecular docking. Quercetin a derivative of A. sativum was observed as a more potent drug molecule than other studied molecules based on ligand binding energy as docking score -7.812, showed highly encouraging results, supported by a study using structural dynamics of the receptor-ligand complex for a duration of 100 ns by Molecular Dynamic Simulations and confirm binding stability with MM-GBSA calculations. This study also provides theoretical grounds for drug discovery against other pathogenic bacteria posing threats to the ecosystem. Switching to herbal products is the best way to combat the plurality of problems to avoid seen or unseen post-treatment side effects.Communicated by Ramaswamy H. Sarma.

Antioxidant and Anti-Inflammatory Effects of Garlic in Ischemic Stroke: Proposal of a New Mechanism of Protection through Regulation of Neuroplasticity

Stroke represents one of the main causes of death and disability in the world; despite this, pharmacological therapies against stroke remain insufficient. Ischemic stroke is the leading etiology of stroke. Different molecular mechanisms, such as excitotoxicity, oxidative stress, and inflammation, participate in cell death and tissue damage. At a preclinical level, different garlic compounds have been evaluated against these mechanisms. Additionally, there is evidence supporting the participation of garlic compounds in other mechanisms that contribute to brain tissue recovery, such as neuroplasticity. After ischemia, neuroplasticity is activated to recover cognitive and motor function. Some garlic-derived compounds and preparations have shown the ability to promote neuroplasticity under physiological conditions and, more importantly, in cerebral damage models. This work describes damage/repair mechanisms and the importance of garlic as a source of antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agents against damage. Moreover, we examine the less-explored neurotrophic properties of garlic, culminating in proposals and observations based on our review of the available information. The aim of the present study is to propose that garlic compounds and preparations could contribute to the treatment of ischemic stroke through their neurotrophic effects.

The deleterious effects of cadmium on oxidative stress markers, drug-metabolizing, and antioxidant enzyme activities: Role of Silymarin and Garlic as Antioxidants

Exposure to cadmium has been related to liver and kidney diseases such as polycystic and nephrotic syndrome. It is still unclear how cadmium contributes to these diseases. It is believed that the induction of oxidative stress resulting from the inhibition of antioxidant enzyme activities and changes in drug-metabolizing enzymes in the liver could explain the role of cadmium in the development of different diseases in the kidney and probably other organs. Changes in oxidative stress markers, antioxidant enzymes, and drug-metabolizing enzyme activities were assessed in the liver of male rats exposed to cadmium chloride. Additionally, the protective effects of silymarin and garlic extract against cadmium toxicosis were evaluated. Rats were randomly divided into eight groups as follows, groups 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5, received orally saline, CdCl2 (1 mg/kg), garlic extract [800 mg/kg], silymarin (25 mg/kg) and silymarin plus garlic extract respectively for 28 consecutive days. Rats in groups 6, 7, and 8 were pretreated with the same doses of garlic, silymarin, and garlic plus silymarin, respectively for two hours before cadmium administration. The Western immunoblotting technique was used to investigate the protein expression of cytochrome P450 isozymes. Spectrophotometric methods were used to assess the activity of both antioxidant- and drug-metabolizing enzymes. Free radical levels [measured as thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS)], catalase, superoxide dismutase, and glutathione peroxidase activities increased whereas the levels of glutathione and the activities of glutathione S-transferase, glutathione reductase, and glutamyl transferase, cytochrome P450, aryl hydrocarbon dehydrogenase (AHH), dimethylnitrosamine-N-demethylase I (DMN-dI), 7-ethoxycoumarine-O-deethylase (ECOD), cytochrome b5 and NADPH-Cytochrome-c-reductase enzyme activities decreased after cadmium treatment. Furthermore, Western immunoblotting data revealed that glutathione peroxidase protein expression increased following cadmium exposure, but cytochrome P450 2E1 and 3A4 expressions were downregulated. However, pretreatment of rats with silymarin or garlic extract or both before cadmium administration was found to restore the protein expression of cytochrome P450 2E1 and 3A4, the level of free radicals, antioxidant enzymes, drug-metabolizing enzyme activities to their normal levels. Similarly, histological studies revealed that silymarin and/or garlic extract reduced the liver damage caused by cadmium. Silymarin and/or garlic extract reduced the adverse effects of cadmium on the activity of both drug-metabolizing and antioxidant enzymes activity. These antioxidants could be provided to those who work in cadmium-based sectors to help them cope with the adverse effects of cadmium on their kidneys. In addition, Inhibiting drug-metabolizing enzyme activity should be considered when administering therapeutic medications to persons exposed to cadmium because most therapeutic drugs and many endogenous substances are largely metabolized by these enzymes.

Antiviral potentials of garlic (Allium sativum) in poultry production: A mini review

Poultry enterprise is challenged with high economic losses due to viral infections. The outbreak of such infections, including Newcastle disease, avian influenza, infectious bronchitis and infectious bursal disease, could undermine poultry performance leading to decreased meat and egg production. The potency of vaccines in recent times has dropped with the rise in the virulence of antigens, which can interrupt vaccination defence. Natural herbs and phytochemicals have been extensively recommended because of their vast advantageous effects. Garlic and its bioactive organo-sulphur compounds have been proven to have antiviral, immunomodulatory and other pharmaceutical properties. Remarkable effects in poultry include a decrease in viral loads, an increase in antibody titres, lessening inflammatory cytokines and augmenting antiviral gene expression; however, methods of preparation, the dose of bioactive compounds and proportions administered may cause disparities in different reports. Therefore, this review highlights the potential of garlic against viral diseases, immunomodulatory, toxicity and pathological status in embryonated chicken eggs and poultry.

Potential antitumor activity of garlic against colorectal cancer: focus on the molecular mechanisms of action

PURPOSE

The aim of this review is to highlight the potential of garlic phytoconstituents as antitumor agents in colorectal cancer management based on their molecular mechanisms of action, while asking if their consumption, as part of the human diet, might contribute to the prevention of colorectal cancer.

METHODS

To gather information on appropriate in vitro, in vivo and human observational studies on this topic, the keywords "Allium sativum", "garlic", "colorectal cancer", "antitumor effect", "in vitro", "in vivo", "garlic consumption" and "colorectal cancer risk" were searched in different combinations in the international databases ScienceDirect, PubMed and Google Scholar. After duplicate and reviews removal, 61 research articles and meta-analyses published between 2000 and 2022 in peer-reviewed journals were found and included in this review.

RESULTS

Garlic (Allium sativum) proves to be a rich source of compounds with antitumor potential. Garlic-derived extracts and several of its individual constituents, especially organosulfur compounds such as allicin, diallyl sulfide, diallyl disulfide, diallyl trisulfide, diallyl tetrasulfide, allylmethylsulfide, S-allylmercaptocysteine, Z-ajoene, thiacremonone and Se-methyl-L-selenocysteine were found to possess cytotoxic, cytostatic, antiangiogenic and antimetastatic activities in different in vitro and in vivo models of colorectal cancer. The molecular mechanisms for their antitumor effects are associated with the modulation of several well-known signaling pathways involved in cell cycle progression, especially G1-S and G2-M transitions, as well as both the intrinsic and extrinsic apoptotic pathways. However, even though in various animal models some of these compounds have chemopreventive effects, based on different human observational studies, a diet rich in garlic is not consistently associated with a lower risk of developing colorectal cancer.

CONCLUSION

Independent of the impact of garlic consumption on colorectal cancer initiation and promotion in humans, its constituents might be good candidates for future conventional and/or complementary therapies, based on their diverse mechanisms of action.

Selenium Organic Content Prediction in Jengkol (Archidendron pauciflorum) and Its Molecular Interaction with Cardioprotection Receptors PPAR-γ, NF-κB, and PI3K

Selenium (Se) is a trace mineral found in plants with a distinct sulfuric odor that is cardioprotective and reported to have low toxicity. West Java, Indonesia, has a variety of plants with a distinct odor that are consumed raw, such as jengkol (Archidendron pauciflorum). This study is conducted to determine the Se content of jengkol using the fluorometric method, where the jengkol extract is separated, and the Se content is detected using high-pressure liquid chromatography (HPLC), combined with fluorometry. Two fractions with the highest Se concentration (A and B) are found and characterized using liquid chromatography mass spectrometry to predict the organic Se content by comparing the results with those in the external literature. The Se content of fraction (A) is found to be selenomethionine (m/z 198), gamma glutamyl-methyl-selenocysteine-(GluMetSeCys; m/z 313), and the Se-sulfur (S) conjugate of cysteine-selenoglutathione (m/z 475). Furthermore, these compounds are docked on receptors involved in cardioprotection. The receptors are peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-γ (PPAR-γ), nuclear factor kappa-B (NF-κB), and phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K/AKT). The interaction of receptor and ligan that has the lowest binding energy of the docking simulation is measured with molecular dynamic simulation. MD is performed to observe bond stability and conformation based on root mean square deviation, root mean square fluctuation, radius gyration, and MM-PBSA parameters. The results of the MD simulation show that the stability of the complex organic Se compounds tested with the receptors is lower than that of the native ligand, while the binding energy is lower than that of the native ligand based on the MM-PSBA parameter. This indicates that the predicted organic Se in jengkol, i.e., gamma-GluMetSeCys to PPAR-γ, gamma-GluMetSeCys AKT/PI3K, and Se-S conjugate of cysteine-selenoglutathione to NF-κB, has the best interaction results and provides a cardioprotection effect, compared to the molecular interaction of the test ligands with the receptors.

Chemical Constituents, Biological Activities, and Proposed Biosynthetic Pathways of Steroidal Saponins from Healthy Nutritious Vegetable-Allium

Allium is a common functional vegetable with edible and medicinal value. Allium plants have a special spicy taste, so they are often used as food and seasoning in people's diets. As a functional food, Allium also has abundant biological activities, some of which are used as drugs to treat diseases. By consuming Allium on a daily basis, people can receive active compounds of natural origin, thereby improving their health status and reducing the likelihood of disease. Steroidal saponins are important secondary metabolites of Allium, which are formed by the steroidal aglycone group and sugar. Steroidal saponins have various physiological activities, such as hypoglycemic, antiplatelet aggregation, anti-inflammatory, antitumor, antimicrobial, and enzyme activity inhibition, which is one of the key reasons why Allium has such significant health benefits. The structural diversity and rich biological activities of steroidal saponins make Allium important plants for both food and medicine. In this paper, the chemical structures, biological activities, and structure-activity relationships of steroidal saponins isolated from Allium are reviewed, and the biosynthetic pathways of some key compounds are proposed as well, to provide a molecular reference basis based on secondary metabolites for the health value of Allium.

Updates on the anticancer potential of garlic organosulfur compounds and their nanoformulations: Plant therapeutics in cancer management

Garlic (Allium sativum L.) possesses numerous pharmacological potential, including antibacterial, antiarthritic, antithrombotic, anticancer, hypoglycemic, and hypolipidemic effects. The anti-cancer action of garlic is likely the best researched of the many advantageous pharmacological effects, and its use offers significant protection against the risk of developing cancer. A few active metabolites of garlic have been reported to be essential in the destruction of malignant cells due to their multi-targeted activities and lack of significant toxicity. The bioactive compounds in garlic having anticancer properties include diallyl trisulfide, allicin, allyl mercaptan diallyl disulfide, and diallyl sulphide. Different garlic-derived constituents and their nanoformulations have been tested for their effects against various cancers including skin, ovarian, prostate, gastric, breast, and lung, colorectal, liver, oral, and pancreatic cancer. The objective of this review is to summarize the antitumor activity and associated mechanisms of the organosulfur compounds of garlic in breast carcinoma. Breast cancer continues to have a significant impact on the total number of cancer deaths worldwide. Global measures are required to reduce its growing burden, particularly in developing nations where incidence is increasing quickly and fatality rates are still high. It has been demonstrated that garlic extract, its bioactive compounds, and their use in nanoformulations can prevent breast cancer in all of its stages, including initiation, promotion, and progression. Additionally, these bioactive compounds affect cell signaling for cell cycle arrest and survival along with lipid peroxidation, nitric oxide synthase activity, epidermal growth factor receptor, nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB), and protein kinase C in breast carcinoma. Hence, this review deciphers the anticancer potential of garlic components and its nanoformulations against several breast cancer thereby projecting it as a potent drug candidate for efficient breast cancer management.

The Pharmacological Activity of Garlic (Allium sativum) in Parkinson's Disease: From Molecular Mechanisms to the Therapeutic Potential

Parkinson's disease (PD), one of the most common neurological diseases worldwide, is mainly characterized neuropathologically by the dopaminergic neurodegeneration in the substantia nigra pars compacta of the brainstem. Genetic and environmental factors contribute to PD pathophysiology through modulation of pleiotropic cellular mechanisms. The currently available treatment options focus only on replenishing dopamine and do not alter disease progression. Interestingly, garlic (Allium sativum), globally famed for its flavor and taste-enhancing properties, has shown protective activity in different PD models. Numerous chemical constituents of garlic, mainly the organosulfur compounds, have been shown to exhibit anti-Parkinsonian effects by targeting oxidative stress, mitochondrial impairment, and neuroinflammation-related signaling. However, despite its therapeutic potential against PD, the major bioactive components of garlic display some stability issues and some adverse effects. In the present review, we explore the therapeutic potential of garlic and its major constituents in PD, the molecular mechanisms responsible for its pharmaceutical activity, and the associated limitations that need to be overcome for its future potential use in clinical practice.

Diallyl Trisulfide, a Biologically Active Component of Garlic Essential Oil, Decreases Male Fertility in Sitotroga cerealella by Impairing Dimorphic Spermatogenesis, Sperm Motility and Lipid Homeostasis

Diallyl trisulfide (DAT) is a biologically active component of garlic essential oil and exhibits multi-targeted activity against many organisms. The current study tested the capacity of DAT to decrease the male fertility of Sitotroga cerealella. The effects on testis morphology, sperm number, motility, and lipid homeostasis were observed in adult males fumigated with DAT at a dose of 0.01 μL/L in air. The results indicated that the DAT significantly decreased the dimorphic sperm number. Meanwhile, the ultrastructural analysis of the sperm showed that the DAT caused malformed and aberrant structures of mitochondrial derivatives of dimorphic sperm. Additionally, the lipid homeostasis and ATP contents in the male adults were significantly decreased after treatment. Moreover, the total sperm motility was reduced, while the wave-propagation velocity, amplitude, frequency, and wavelength were significantly decreased compared with the controls. Overall, this study reported, for the first time, that DAT impairs energy metabolism, inhibits dimorphic spermatogenesis, and decreases sperm motility, while these abnormalities in sperm lead to adult-male infertility.

Allicin shows antifungal efficacy against Cryptococcus neoformans by blocking the fungal cell membrane

Allicin, which is generated by the catalytic reaction between alliin and alliinase extracted from garlic, has been shown to have a wide range of antimicrobial activities, but its anti-Cryptococcus efficacy and mechanism are not quite clear. Here, we have determined that the Conversion rate of allicin in the reaction product reached 97.5%. The minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC) of allicin against Cryptococcus neoformans (C. neoformans) H99 was 2 μg/ml, which is comparable to fluconazole (FLU, 1 μg/ml). Furthermore, allicin exhibited effective antifungal activity against 46 clinical isolates of C. neoformans, and the MICs ranged from 1 to 8 μg/ml, even for AmB-insensitive strains. Interestingly, allicin also exerted additive or synergistic effects when combined with amphotericin B (AmB) and FLU. Time-killing curves and long-term live cell imaging of H99 showed that 4 MIC of allicin had fungicide activity. Additionally, allicin (4 and 8 mg/kg) exerted a dose-dependent therapeutic effect on H99-infected mice by significantly reducing the wet pulmonary coefficient and Cryptococcus load and reducing lung damage. Even the efficacy of 8 mg/kg was comparable to FLU (20 mg/kg). Transcriptomics revealed that allicin may act on the cell membrane of H99. Subsequently, transmission electron microscopy (TEM) observations showed that allicin clearly breached the cell membrane and organelles of H99. Confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM) results further confirmed that allicin disrupted the permeability of the cell membranes of H99 in a dose-dependent manner. Allicin exhibits strong anti-C. neoformans activity in vitro and in vivo, mainly by destroying the permeability and related functions of Cryptococcus cell membranes.

Phytochemicals from Red Onion, Grown with Eco-Sustainable Fertilizers, Protect Mammalian Cells from Oxidative Stress, Increasing Their Viability

Red onion, a species of great economic importance rich in phytochemicals (bioactive compounds) known for its medicinal properties, was fertilized with sulphur-bentonite enriched with orange residue or olive pomace, with the aim of producing onion enriched in health beneficial compounds. There is a worldwide great demand of minimally processed food or food ingredients with functional properties because of a new awareness of how important healthy functional nutrition is in life. Phytochemicals have the capacity to regulate most of the metabolic processes resulting in health benefits. Red onion bioactive compound quantity and quality can vary according to cultivation practices. The main aims of the current research were to determine the chemical characteristics of the crude extracts from red onion bulbs differently fertilized and to evaluate their biological activity in normal and oxidative stress conditions. The lyophilized onion bulbs have been tested in vitro on two cellular models, i.e., the H9c2 rat cardiomyoblast cell line and primary human dermal fibroblasts, in terms of viability and oxygen radical homeostasis. The results evidenced different phytochemical compositions and antioxidant activities of the extracts obtained from red onions differently fertilized. Sulphur-bentonite fertilizers containing orange waste and olive pomace positively affected the red onion quality with respect to the red onion control, evidencing that sulphur-bentonite-organic fertilization was able to stimulate plant a secondary metabolism inducing the production of phytochemicals with healthy functions. A positive effect of the extracts from red onions treated with fertilizers—in particular, with those containing orange waste, such as the reduction of oxidative stress and induction of cell viability of H9c2 and human fibroblasts—was observed, showing a concentration- and time-dependent profile. The results evidenced that the positive effects were related to the phenols and, in particular, to chlorogenic and p-coumaric acids and to the flavonol kaempferol, which were more present in red onion treated with low orange residue than in the other treated ones.

Diallyl Disulfide: A Bioactive Garlic Compound with Anticancer Potential

Cancer is a life-threatening disease caused by the uncontrolled division of cells, which culminates in a solid mass of cells known as a tumor or liquid cancer. It is the leading cause of mortality worldwide, and the number of cancer patients has been increasing at an alarming rate, with an estimated 20 million cases expected by 2030. Thus, the use of complementary or alternative therapeutic techniques that can help prevent cancer has been the subject of increased attention. Garlic, the most widely used plant medicinal product, exhibits a wide spectrum of biological activities, including antibacterial, hypo-lipidemic, antithrombotic, and anticancer effects. Diallyl disulfide (DADS) is a major organosulfur compound contained within garlic. Recently, several experimental studies have demonstrated that DADS exhibits anti-tumor activity against many types of tumor cells, including gynecological cancers (cervical cancer, ovarian cancer), hematological cancers (leukemia, lymphoma), lung cancer, neural cancer, skin cancer, prostate cancer, gastrointestinal tract and associated cancers (esophageal cancer, gastric cancer, colorectal cancer), hepatocellular cancer cell line, etc. The mechanisms behind the anticancer action of DADS include epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), invasion, and migration. This article aims to review the available information regarding the anti-cancer potential of DADS, as well as summarize its mechanisms of action, bioavailability, and pharmacokinetics from published clinical and toxicity studies.

Protective effects of Allium hirtifolium extract against foodborne toxicity of Zinc oxide nanoparticles in Common carp (Cyprinus carpio)

The use of nano-sized materials is increasingly growing, while consequent health and environmental risks are still disputed. On the other hand, plant extracts have been reported to improve fish general health status and enhance antioxidant capacity. Thus, the present study was aimed to assess potential effects of Allium hirtifolium extract (AHE) to fortify antioxidant responses of Common carp (Cyprinus carpio) exposed to foodborne Zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO-NPs). Five hundred and forty fish were randomly allocated into 18 tanks and received six diets including a basal diet (as control), basal diet incorporated with either 13 mg/kg (ZnO-25) or 26 mg/kg (ZnO-50) of ZnO-NPs, 1.5% AHE (AHE-1.5), and similar concentrations of ZnO-NPs plus AHE (ZnO-25-AHE) and (ZnO-50-AHE) for a period of 30 days. Results revealed that blood indices, stress biomarkers (glucose and cortisol), and antioxidant parameters and genes in AHE-1.5 group were significantly modulated and improved when compared to other groups (P < 0.05). In AHE-enriched groups, serum and liver tissue antioxidative parameters were enhanced as reflected in a noticeable decrease in malondialdehyde value and an increase in catalase, superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase, and glutathione reductase. However, current results showed that diets incorporated with ZnO-NPs elevated the stress parameters besides a significant reduction for most measured biochemical parameters and AHE supplementation ameliorated these effects in terms of improving antioxidant parameters. In ZnO-25-AHE, and ZnO-50-AHE, the values for expression of GPx were found significantly (P < 0.05) different from that of ZnO-25 and ZnO-50. On the contrary, SOD showed a non-significant difference (P > 0.05) among control, ZnO-25, and ZnO-50-AHE, also in-between ZnO-25 and ZnO-25-AHE. The present results indicate that AHE supplementation could trigger antioxidant responses both at tissue and molecular levels suggesting its outstanding protective effects against foodborne toxicity of ZnO-NPs in Common carp.

Herb and Spices in Colorectal Cancer Prevention and Treatment: A Narrative Review

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the second most deadly cancer worldwide. CRC management is challenging due to late detection, high recurrence rate, and multi-drug resistance. Herbs and spices used in cooking, practised for generations, have been shown to contain CRC protective effect or even be useful as an anti-CRC adjuvant therapy when used in high doses. Herbs and spices contain many bioactive compounds and possess many beneficial health effects. The chemopreventive properties of these herbs and spices are mainly mediated by the BCL-2, K-ras, and MMP pathways, caspase activation, the extrinsic apoptotic pathway, and the regulation of ER-stress-induced apoptosis. As a safer natural alternative, these herbs and spices could be good candidates for chemopreventive or chemotherapeutic agents for CRC management because of their antiproliferative action on colorectal carcinoma cells and inhibitory activity on angiogenesis. Therefore, in this narrative review, six different spices and herbs: ginger (Zingiber officinale Roscoe), turmeric (Curcuma longa L.), garlic (Allium sativum L.), fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum L.), sesame (Sesamum indicum L.), and flaxseed (Linum usitatissimum L.) used in daily cuisine were selected for this study and analyzed for their chemoprotective or chemotherapeutic roles in CRC management with underlying molecular mechanisms of actions. Initially, this study comprehensively discussed the molecular basis of CRC development, followed by culinary and traditional uses, current scientific research, and publications of selected herbs and spices on cancers. Lead compounds have been discussed comprehensively for each herb and spice, including anti-CRC phytoconstituents, antioxidant activities, anti-inflammatory properties, and finally, anti-CRC effects with treatment mechanisms. Future possible works have been suggested where applicable.

Phytochemicals in the Management of Arsenic Toxicity

Arsenic toxicity is a major concern due to its deleterious consequences for human health. Rapid industrialization also has weakened the quality of the environment by introducing pollutants that may disrupt balanced ecosystems, adversely and irreversibly impacting humans, plants, and animals. Arsenic, an important toxicant among all environmental hazards, can lead to several detrimental effects on cells and organs, impacting the overall quality of life. Nevertheless, arsenic also has a rich history as a chemotherapeutic agent used in ancient days for the treatment of diseases such as malaria, cancer, plague, and syphilis when other chemotherapeutic agents were yet to be discovered. Arsenicosis-mediated disorders remain a serious problem due to the lack of effective therapeutic options. Initially, chelation therapy was used to metabolically eliminate arsenic by forming a complex, but adverse effects limited their pharmacological use. More recently, plant-based products have been found to provide significant relief from the toxic effects of arsenic poisoning. They act by different mechanisms affecting various cellular processes. Phytoconstituents such as curcumin, quercetin, diallyl trisulfide, thymoquinone, and others act via various molecular pathways, primarily by attenuating oxidative damage, membrane damage, DNA damage, and proteinopathies. Nonetheless, most of the phytochemicals reviewed here protect against the adverse effects of metal or metalloid exposure, supporting their consideration as alternatives to chelation therapy. These agents, if used prophylactically and in conjunction with other chemotherapeutic agents, may provide an effective approach for management of arsenic toxicity. In a few instances, such strategies like coadministration of phytochemicals with a known chelating agent have led to more pronounced elimination of arsenic from the body with lesser off-site adverse effects. This is possible because combination treatment ensures the use of a reduced dose of chelating agent with a phytochemical without compromising treatment. Thus, these therapies are more practical than conventional therapeutic agents in ameliorating arsenic-mediated toxicity. This review summarizes the potential of phytochemicals in alleviating arsenic toxicity on the basis of available experimental and clinical evidence.

Garlic the Wonder Adjuvant in Medicinal Field

Background: Plant derived compounds are drawing attention in curing and treating variety of ailment and diseases. This increase in popularity of natural products has renewed interest in garlic, which has been used by human for centuries. It has been found that garlic pulp contains more than 200 chemical compounds and numerous garlic molecules can still be explored, extracted, synthesized and optimized. As in market various preparations of garlic are available which include tablets made from dried and powdered clove, oils and liquid extracts however, it would also be interesting to explore the effect of different forms of garlic extract on standard drug therapy especially when used as an adjuvant therapy. In this review a report on the pharmaceutical preparation which has used extracted compounds from garlic or its derivatives as a main constituent is compiled, so that it could be useful to increase our knowledge about the therapeutic effect of garlic and could improve our future experimental and chemical plans.

Methods: We performed a systematic review of literature using term garlic.

Result: In this report a comprehensive investigation has been conducted on garlic which includes various scientific aspects about it by which researchers from various disciplines could be directed to put efforts toward discovering the benefits of garlic on human health.

Conclusion: Garlic and its extracts had a wide range of applications even against resistant organisms to serve as powerful anti-microbial agent. Therefore, research is needed to refine the pathophysiological mechanisms of action of garlic and its utility in treatment of various diseases by developing more stable and suitable formulations. The development of Garlic as a commercial anti-biotic has come to a halt. Although its efficiency is scientifically proven still it has only been used as dietary supplement or as traditional medicine.

S-Allyl cysteine in garlic (Allium sativum): Formation, biofunction, and resistance to food processing for value-added product development

S-allyl cysteine (SAC), which is the most abundant bioactive compound in black garlic (BG; Allium sativum), has been shown to have antioxidant, anti-apoptotic, anti-inflammatory, anti-obesity, cardioprotective, neuroprotective, and hepatoprotective activities. Sulfur compounds are the most distinctive bioactive elements in garlic. Previous studies have provided evidence that the concentration of SAC in fresh garlic is in the range of 19.0-1736.3 μg/g. Meanwhile, for processed garlic, such as frozen and thawed garlic, pickled garlic, fermented garlic extract, and BG, the SAC content increased to up to 8021.2 μg/g. BG is an SAC-containing product, with heat treatment being used in nearly all methods of BG production. Therefore, strategies to increase the SAC level in garlic are of great interest; however, further knowledge is required about the effect of processing factors and mechanistic changes. This review explains the formation of SAC in garlic, introduces its biological effects, and summarizes the recent advances in processing methods that can affect SAC levels in garlic, including heat treatment, enzymatic treatment, freezing, fermentation, ultrasonic treatment, and high hydrostatic pressure. Thus, the aim of this review was to summarize the outcomes of treatment aimed at maintaining or increasing SAC levels in BG. Therefore, publications from scientific databases in this field of study were examined. The effects of processing methods on SAC compounds were evaluated on the basis of the SAC content. This review provides information on the processing approaches that can assist food manufacturers in the development of value-added garlic products.

The antinociceptive effect of garlic, garlic preparations, and derivative compounds

The antinociceptive effects of garlic have shown promise in treating different chronic diseases in humans, such as knee osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and peripheral arterial occlusive disease stage II. The most common garlic products are garlic powder (dried garlic), steam distilled garlic oils, garlic oil macerate, and aged garlic extract. These commercial products contain organosulfur compounds (OSC) that have been extensively evaluated in preclinical models and some clinical assays to treat different diseases against pain. In this review, we describe the importance of some bioactive compounds found in garlic and its role in treating pain. A systematic search of the literature in Dimensions, PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science was performed. Terms and preselected keywords relating to garlic, its derivates and organusulfur compunds in pain, were used to perform a systematic literature search. Two independent reviewers screened papers for inclusion and assessed the methodological quality. The antinociceptive activity of garlic and its OSC is related to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which may be explained by the ability to block the synthesis of PGs, pro-inflammatory cytokines and interferon-γ, by the reduction COX- 2 activity and by increases the levels of anti-inflammatory cytokines. Besides, garlic extract is an activator of TRPA1 and TRPV1, where the principal responsible for this activation are OSC. The relationship between these pathways allows a better understanding how garlic and its derivates could be carrying out its pharmacological action over the management of acute and chronic pain and provide a base by further investigations.

Pretreatment of Garlic Oil Extracts Hampers Epithelial Damage in Cell Culture Model of Peptic Ulcer Disease

Background and Objectives: Peptic ulcer disease is a chronic disease affecting up to 10% of the world’s population. Proton pump inhibitors, such as lansoprazole are the gold standard in the treatment of ulcer disease. However, various studies have shown the effectiveness of garlic oil extracts in the treatment of ulcer disease. A cellular model can be established in the human gastric cell line by sodium taurocholate. The aim of this study was to explore the effects of garlic oil extracts pretreatment and LPZ addition in the cell culture model of peptic ulcer disease by examining oxidative stress and F-actin distribution. Materials and Methods: Evaluation was performed by determination of glutathione and prostaglandin E2 concentrations by ELISA; human gastric cell line proliferation by cell counting; expression of ATP-binding cassette, sub-family G, member 2; nuclear factor kappa B subunit 2 by RT PCR; and F-actin cytoskeleton visualization by semi-quantification of Rhodamine Phalloidin stain. Results: Our results showed significant reduction of cell damage after sodium taurocholate incubation when the gastric cells were pretreated with lansoprazole (p < 0.001) and increasing concentrations of garlic oil extracts (p < 0.001). Pretreatment with lansoprazole and different concentrations of garlic oil extracts increased prostaglandin E2 and glutathione concentrations in the cell culture model of peptic ulcer disease (p < 0.001). Positive correlation of nuclear factor kappa B subunit 2 (p < 0.01) with lansoprazole and garlic oil extracts pretreatment was seen, while ATP-binding cassette, sub-family G, member 2 expression was not changed. Treatment with sodium taurocholate as oxidative stress on F actin structure was less pronounced, although the highest concentration of garlic oil extracts led to a statistically significant increase of total amount of F-actin (p < 0.001). Conclusions: Hence, pretreatment with garlic oil extracts had gastroprotective effect in the cell model of peptic ulcer disease. However, further experiments are needed to fully elucidate the mechanism of this protective role.

Allicin, an Antioxidant and Neuroprotective Agent, Ameliorates Cognitive Impairment

Allicin (diallylthiosulfinate) is a defense molecule produced by cellular contents of garlic (Allium sativum L.). On tissue damage, the non-proteinogenic amino acid alliin (S-allylcysteine sulfoxide) is converted to allicin in an enzyme-mediated process catalysed by alliinase. Allicin is hydrophobic in nature, can efficiently cross the cellular membranes and behaves as a reactive sulfur species (RSS) inside the cells. It is physiologically active molecule with the ability to oxidise the thiol groups of glutathione and between cysteine residues in proteins. Allicin has shown anticancer, antimicrobial, antioxidant properties and also serves as an efficient therapeutic agent against cardiovascular diseases. In this context, the present review describes allicin as an antioxidant, and neuroprotective molecule that can ameliorate the cognitive abilities in case of neurodegenerative and neuropsychological disorders. As an antioxidant, allicin fights the reactive oxygen species (ROS) by downregulation of NOX (NADPH oxidizing) enzymes, it can directly interact to reduce the cellular levels of different types of ROS produced by a variety of peroxidases. Most of the neuroprotective actions of allicin are mediated via redox-dependent pathways. Allicin inhibits neuroinflammation by suppressing the ROS production, inhibition of TLR4/MyD88/NF-κB, P38 and JNK pathways. As an inhibitor of cholinesterase and (AChE) and butyrylcholinesterase (BuChE) it can be applied to manage the Alzheimer's disease, helps to maintain the balance of neurotransmitters in case of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and attention deficit hyperactive syndrome (ADHD). In case of acute traumatic spinal cord injury (SCI) allicin protects neuron damage by regulating inflammation, apoptosis and promoting the expression levels of Nrf2 (nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2). Metal induced neurodegeneration can also be attenuated and cognitive abilities of patients suffering from neurological diseases can be ameliorates by allicin administration.

Superfast Synthesis of Stabilized Silver Nanoparticles Using Aqueous Allium sativum (Garlic) Extract and Isoniazid Hydrazide Conjugates: Molecular Docking and In-Vitro Characterizations

Green synthesis of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) was synthesized from fresh garlic extract coupled with isoniazid hydrazide (INH), a commonly used antibiotic to treat tuberculosis. A molecular docking study conducted with the selected compounds compared with anthranilate phosphoribosyltransferase (trpD) from Mycobacterium tuberculosis. The aqueous extract of garlic was prepared and mixed with silver nitrate (AgNO3) solution for the superfast synthesis of stable AgNPs. INH was then conjugated with AgNPs at different ratios (v/v) to obtain stable INH-AgNPs conjugates (AgNCs). The resulting AgNCs characterized by FTIR spectra revealed the ultrafast formation of AgNPs (<5 s) and perfectly conjugated with INH. The shifting of λmax to longer wavelength, as found from UV spectral analysis, confirmed the formation of AgNCs, among which ideal formulations (F7, F10, and F13) have been pre-selected. The zeta particle size (PS) and the zeta potential (ZP) of AgNPs were found to be 145.3 ± 2.1 nm and −33.1 mV, respectively. These data were significantly different compared to that of AgNCs (160 ± 2.7 nm and −14.4 mV for F7; 208.9 ± 2.9 nm and −19.8 mV for F10; and 281.3 ± 3.6 nm and −19.5 mV for F13), most probably due to INH conjugation. The results of XRD, SEM and EDX confirmed the formation of AgNCs. From UV spectral analysis, EE of INH as 51.6 ± 5.21, 53.6 ± 6.88, and 70.01 ± 7.11 %, for F7, F10, and F13, respectively. The stability of the three formulations was confirmed in various physiological conditions. Drug was released in a sustainable fashion. Besides, from the preferred 23 compounds, five compounds namely Sativoside R2, Degalactotigonin, Proto-desgalactotigonin, Eruboside B and Sativoside R1 showed a better docking score than trpD, and therefore may help in promoting anti-tubercular activity.

Co-Application of Allicin and Chitosan Increases Resistance of Rosa roxburghii against Powdery Mildew and Enhances Its Yield and Quality

Powdery mildew, caused by Sphaerotheca sp., annually causes severe losses in yield and quality in Rosa roxburghii production areas of southwest China. In this study, the role of the co-application of allicin and chitosan in the resistance of R. roxburghii against powdery mildew and its effects on growth, yield and quality of R. roxburghii were investigated. The laboratory toxicity test results show that allicin exhibited a superior antifungal activity against Sphaerotheca sp. with EC₅₀ value of 148.65 mg kg⁻¹. In the field, the foliar application of allicin could effectively enhance chitosan against powdery mildew with control efficacy of 85.97% by spraying 5% allicin microemulsion (ME) 100–time liquid + chitosan 100–time liquid, which was significantly (p < 0.01) higher than 76.70% of allicin, 70.93% of chitosan and 60.23% of polyoxin. The co-application of allicin and chitosan effectively enhanced the photosynthetic rate and chlorophyll of R. roxburghii compared with allicin, chitosan or polyoxin alone. Moreover, allicin used together with chitosan was more effective than allicin or chitosan alone in enhancing R. roxburghii plant growth and fruit yield as well as improving R. roxburghii fruit quality. This work highlights that the co-application of allicin and chitosan can be used as a green, cost-effective and environmentally friendly alternative strategy to conventional antibiotics for controlling powdery mildew of R. roxburghii.

Immunomodulatory effects of Allium Sativum L. and its constituents against viral infections and metabolic diseases

BACKGROUND

Allium sativum L., or garlic, is one of the most studied plants worldwide within the field of traditional medicine. Current interests lie in the potential use of garlic as a preventive measure and adjuvant treatment for viral infections, e.g., SARS-CoV-2. Even though it cannot be presented as a single treatment, its beneficial effects are beyond doubt. The World Health Organization has deemed it an essential part of any balanced diet with immunomodulatory properties.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of the study was to review the literature on the effects of garlic compounds and preparations on immunomodulation and viral infection management, with emphasis on SARS-CoV-2.

METHOD

Exhaustive literature search has been carried out on electronic databases.

CONCLUSION

Garlic is a fundamental part of a well-balanced diet which helps maintain general good health. The reported information regarding garlic's ability to beneficially modulate inflammation and the immune system is encouraging. Nonetheless, more efforts must be made to understand the actual medicinal properties and mechanisms of action of the compounds found in this plant to inhibit or diminish viral infections, particularly SARS-CoV-2. Based on our findings, we propose a series of innovative strategies to achieve such a challenge in the near future.

Diallyl disulfide and diallyl trisulfide in garlic as novel therapeutic agents to overcome drug resistance in breast cancer

Breast cancer is one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths in women worldwide. It is a cancer that originates from the mammary ducts and involves mutations in multiple genes. Recently, the treatment of breast cancer has become increasingly challenging owing to the increase in tumor heterogeneity and aggressiveness, which gives rise to therapeutic resistance. Epidemiological, population-based, and hospital-based case-control studies have demonstrated an association between high intake of certain Allium vegetables and a reduced risk in the development of breast cancer. Diallyl disulfide (DADS) and diallyl trisulfide (DATS) are the main allyl sulfur compounds present in garlic, and are known to exhibit anticancer activity as they interfere with breast cancer cell proliferation, tumor metastasis, and angiogenesis. The present review highlights multidrug resistance mechanisms and their signaling pathways in breast cancer. This review discusses the potential anticancer activities of DADS and DATS, with emphasis on drug resistance in triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC). Understanding the anticancer activities of DADS and DATS provides insights into their potential in targeting drug resistance mechanisms of TNBC, especially in clinical studies.

•

The review describes the causes of drug resistance in TNBC.

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The effects of DADS and DATS on drug resistance mechanisms in TNBC are presented.

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The impacts of DADS and DATS on metastasis of TNBC are discussed.

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Antitumor immune activities of DADS and DATS against TNBC are illustrated.

Role of ACE2-Ang (1-7)-Mas axis in post-COVID-19 complications and its dietary modulation

Severe acute respiratory syndrome-coronavirus-2 (COVID-19) virus uses Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme 2 (ACE2) as a gateway for their entry into the human body. The ACE2 with cleaved products have emerged as major contributing factors to multiple physiological functions and pathogenic complications leading to the clinical consequences of the COVID-19 infection Decreased ACE2 expression restricts the viral entry into the human cells and reduces the viral load. COVID-19 infection reduces the ACE2 expression and induces post-COVID-19 complications like pneumonia and lung injury. The modulation of the ACE2-Ang (1–7)-Mas (AAM) axis is also being explored as a modality to treat post-COVID-19 complications. Evidence indicates that specific food components may modulate the AAM axis. The variations in the susceptibility to COVID-19 infection and the post-COVID its complications are being correlated with varied dietary habits. Some of the food substances have emerged to have supportive roles in treating post-COVID-19 complications and are being considered as adjuvants to the COVID-19 therapy. It is possible that some of their active ingredients may emerge as the direct treatment for the COVID-19.

Diallyl Sulfide Attenuation of Carcinogenesis in Mammary Epithelial Cells through the Inhibition of ROS Formation, and DNA Strand Breaks

Garlic has long been used medicinally for many diseases, including cancer. One of the active garlic components is diallyl sulfide (DAS), which prevents carcinogenesis and reduces the incidence rate of several cancers. In this study, non-cancerous MCF-10A cells were used as a model to investigate the effect of DAS on Benzo (a)pyrene (BaP)-induced cellular carcinogenesis. The cells were evaluated based on changes in proliferation, cell cycle arrest, the formation of peroxides, 8-hydroxy-2-deoxyguanosine (8-OHdG) levels, the generation of DNA strand breaks, and DNA Polymerase β (Pol β) expression. The results obtained indicate that when co-treated with BaP, DAS inhibited BaP-induced cell proliferation (p < 0.05) to levels similar to the negative control. BaP treatment results in a two-fold increase in the accumulation of cells in the G2/M-phase of the cell cycle, which is restored to baseline levels, similar to untreated cells and vehicle-treated cells, when pretreated with 6 μM and 60 μM DAS, respectively. Co-treatment with DAS (60 μM and 600 μM) inhibited BaP-induced reactive oxygen species (ROS) formation by 132% and 133%, respectively, as determined by the accumulation of H₂O₂ in the extracellular medium and an increase in 8-OHdG levels of treated cells. All DAS concentrations inhibited BaP-induced DNA strand breaks through co-treatment and pre-treatment methods at all time points evaluated. Co-Treatment with 60 μM DAS increased DNA Pol β expression in response to BaP-induced lipid peroxidation and oxidative DNA damage. These results indicate that DAS effectively inhibited BaP-induced cell proliferation, cell cycle transitions, ROS, and DNA damage in an MCF-10A cell line. These results provide more experimental evidence for garlic's antitumor abilities and corroborate many epidemiological studies regarding the association between the increased intake of garlic and the reduced risk of several types of cancer.

Ethanol-based garlic extract prevents malignant evolution of non-invasive breast tumor cells induced by moderate hypoxia

BACKGROUND

In breast cancer, low oxygen availability is associated with a more aggressive phenotype and with malignant evolution of non-invasive cells. Natural compounds have long attracted attention in cancer treatment, and in recent years garlic (Allium sativum) organosulfur derivatives have been shown to negatively affect growth and invasion of tumor cells.

METHODS

Homemade ethanol-based garlic extract (GE) was administered to MCF7 and MCF10DCIS breast tumor cell lines grown under moderate hypoxia. Cell cycle, epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition and cancer stem cell markers were evaluated.

RESULTS

We revealed that, in the non-invasive MCF10DCIS cells but not in the post-EMT MCF7 cells, low oxygen availability induced the decrease of E-cadherin and the increase of vimentin and motility, that were prevented by GE administration. In both cell lines, treatment with GE counteracted the up-modulation of CD133 positive cells induced by hypoxia.

CONCLUSIONS

Overall, our data firstly revealed anti-cancer properties of garlic in non-invasive breast cancer cells. In particular, they demonstrated a protective role of this natural product against the hypoxia-induced increase of molecules that play crucial roles in tumor evolution, suggesting that garlic derivatives can be considered in new approaches for preventing progression of breast tumors from non-invasive to infiltrating lesions.

Garlic constituents for cancer prevention and therapy: From phytochemistry to novel formulations

Garlic (Allium sativum L.) is one of the oldest plants cultivated for its dietary and medicinal values. This incredible plant is endowed with various pharmacological attributes, such as antimicrobial, antiarthritic, antithrombotic, antitumor, hypoglycemic, and hypolipidemic activities. Among the various beneficial pharmacological effects of garlic, the anticancer activity is presumably the most studied. The consumption of garlic provides strong protection against cancer risk. Taking into account the multi-targeted actions and absence of considerable toxicity, a few active metabolites of garlic are probably to play crucial roles in the killing of cancerous cells. Garlic contains several bioactive molecules with anticancer actions and these include diallyl trisulfide, allicin, diallyl disulfide, diallyl sulfide, and allyl mercaptan. The effects of various garlic-derived products, their phytoconstituents and nanoformulations have been evaluated against skin, prostate, ovarian, breast, gastric, colorectal, oral, liver, and pancreatic cancers. Garlic extract, its phytocompounds and their nanoformulations have been shown to inhibit the different stages of cancer, including initiation, promotion, and progression. Besides, these bioactive metabolites alter the peroxidation of lipid, activity of nitric oxide synthetase, nuclear factor-κB, epidermal growth factor receptor, and protein kinase C, cell cycle, and survival signaling. The current comprehensive review portrays the functions of garlic, its bioactive constituents and nanoformulations against several types of cancers and explores the possibility of developing these agents as anticancer pharmaceuticals.

Chemical constituents and medicinal properties of Allium species

Allium species, belonging to Alliaceae family, are among the oldest cultivated vegetables used as food. Garlic, onions, leeks and chives, which belong to this family, have been reported to have medicinal properties. The Allium species constituents have been shown to have antibacterial and antioxidant activities, and, in addition, other biological properties. These activities are related to their rich organosulfur compounds. These organosulfur compounds are believed to prevent the development of cancer, cardiovascular, neurological, diabetes, liver diseases as well as allergy and arthritis. There have also been reports on toxicities of these compounds. The major active compounds of Allium species includes, diallyl disulfide, diallyl trisulfide, diallyl sulfide, dipropyl disulfide, dipropyl trisulfide, 1-propenylpropyl disulfide, allyl methyl disulfide and dimethyl disulfide. The aim of this review is to focus on a variety of experimental and clinical reports on the effectiveness, toxicities and possible mechanisms of actions of the active compounds of garlic, onions, leek and chives.

A review on corona virus and treatment approaches with Allium sativam

Background

Recently reported cases of Covid-19 globally remind us that new diseases are coming while we are unable to provide the treatment for the same. The entire world is facing this viral attack; deaths are increasing day by day as well as infected patients too. Today, in the period of this disease, can we go to the shelter of our traditional medicines?

Main body

In this article, we have taken medicines related to corona and conceptualized their mechanism, which gave us a chance to understand Garlic's mechanism of action, how Garlic can be a weapon in the lane with this disease. This article also tells how we can treat new diseases with our traditional herbs if no modern medicine has been discovered yet.

Conclusion

The present review is based on the structure of the virus and the targeted site for the drug discovery process with important constituents of Allium sativam. The review work also explains the allicin chemical constituent of Allium sativam which has targeted therapeutic sites related to Covid-19.

Relationship between Volatile Composition and Bioactive Potential of Vegetables and Fruits of Regular Consumption-An Integrative Approach

In recent years, there has been a growing interest in studying and exploring the potential health benefits of foods, mainly from vegetables and fruits from regular intake. The presence of secondary metabolites, namely polyphenols, carotenoids and terpenes, in certain food matrices seems to contribute to their functional properties, expressed through an increased prevention in the development of certain chronic diseases, namely coronary heart diseases, neurodegenerative diseases, cancer and diabetes. However, some foods' volatile secondary metabolites also present important bioactive properties, although this is a poorly scientifically explored field. In this context, and in order to explore the potential bioactivity of volatile metabolites in different vegetables and fruits from regular consumption, the volatile composition was established using a green extraction technique, solid phase microextraction in headspace mode (HS-SPME), combined with gas chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (GC-MS). A total of 320 volatile metabolites, comprising 51 terpenic compounds, 45 organosulfur compounds, 31 aldehydes, 37 esters, 29 ketones, 28 alcohols, 23 furanic compounds, 22 hydrocarbons, 19 benzene compounds, 13 nitrogenous compounds, 9 carboxylic acids, 7 ethers, 4 halogenated compounds and 3 naphthalene derivatives, were positively identified. Each investigated fruit and vegetable showed a specific volatile metabolomic profile. The obtained results revealed that terpenic compounds, to which are associated antimicrobial, antioxidant, and anticancer activities, are the most predominant chemical family in beetroot (61%), orange carrot (58%) and white carrot (61%), while organosulfur compounds (antiviral activity) are dominant in onion, garlic and watercress. Broccoli and spinach are essentially constituted by alcohols and aldehydes (enzyme-inhibition and antimicrobial properties), while fruits from the Solanaceae family are characterized by esters in tamarillo and aldehydes in tomato.

Allium sativum derived carbon dots as a potential theranostic agent to combat the COVID-19 crisis

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is one of the worst pandemics to have hit the humanity. The manifestations are quite varied, ranging from severe lung infections to being asymptomatic. Hence, there is an urgent need to champion new tools to accelerate the end of this pandemic. Compromised immunity is a primary feature of COVID-19. Allium sativum (AS) is an effective dietary supplement known for its immune-modulatory, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, anticancer, antifungal, and anti-viral properties. In this paper, it is hypothesized that carbon dots (CDs) derived from AS (AS-CDs) may possess the potential to downregulate the expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines and revert the immunological aberrations to normal in case of COVID-19. CDs have already been explored in the world of nanobiomedicine as a promising theranostic candidates for bioimaging and drug/gene delivery. The antifibrotic and antioxidant effects of AS are elaborated, as demonstrated in several studies. It is found that the most active constituent of AS, allicin has a highly potent antioxidant and reactive oxygen species (ROS) scavenging effect. The antibacterial, antifungal, and anti-viral effects along with their capability of negating inflammatory effects and cytokine storm are discussed. The synthesis of theranostic CDs from AS may provide a novel weapon in the therapeutic armamentarium for the management of COVID-19 infection and, at the same time, could act as a diagnostic agent for COVID-19.

Exploration of therapeutic applicability and different signaling mechanism of various phytopharmacological agents for treatment of breast cancer

BACKGROUND

Cancer is one of the most dreaded diseases characterized by uncontrolled proliferation of abnormal cells that occurs due to impairment of cell division and apoptosis process. Cancer is categorized into several types on the basis of affected organs and breast cancer (BC) is the most predominant cause of mortality among women. Although, several synthetic and semi-synthetic therapies have been developed for the treatment of BC but they exhibit numerous serious adverse effects therefore; pharmacological agents with fewer/no side effects need to be explored. Plants and phytoconstituents perhaps fulfill the aforementioned requirement and could serve as a potential and alternative therapy for BC treatment. The ongoing biomedical research, clinical trials and number of patents granted have further boosted the acceptance of the plants and plant-derived constituents in the effective treatment of BC.

PURPOSE OF STUDY

Various treatment strategies such as checkpoint inhibitors, targeting micro RNA, apoptotic pathway, BRCA-1 gene, P₅₃ protein, P13K/Akt/mTOR pathway, notch signaling pathway, hedgehog/gli-1 signaling pathway, poly-ADP ribose polymerase inhibitors, mitogen-activated protein kinase inhibitors etc. are available for BC. In addition to these synthetic and semi-synthetic drug therapies, several natural constituents such as alkaloids, sesquiterpenes, polyphenols, flavonoids and diterpenoids from medicinal plants, vegetables and fruits are reported to possess promising anti-cancer activity. The purpose of the present review is to highlight the various signaling pathways through which plants/herbs show the anti-cancer potential especially against the BC.

STUDY DESIGN

The literature for the present study was collected from various databases such as Pubmed, Scopus, Chemical Abstracts, Medicinal and aromatic plant abstracts, Web of Science etc. The different patent databases were also reviewed for the anti-cancer (BC) potential of the particular herbs/plants and their formulations.

RESULT AND CONCLUSION

In this review, we have discussed the number of plants along with their patents of different herbal formulations which are being used for the treatment of BC and other types of cancers. We have also delineated the different signaling mechanisms through which they inhibit the growth of BC cells. In nutshell, we can conclude that large numbers of herbs or their extracts are reported for the treatment of BC. But still, there is further need for research in-depth to translate the use of natural products clinically BC treatment.

Highly sensitive and selective colorimetric detection of dual metal ions (Hg2+ and Sn2+) in water: an eco-friendly approach

Application of an alliin-based precursor for the synthesis of silver nanoparticles (Ag NPs) which is an emerging, reliable and rapid sensor of heavy metal ion contaminants in water is reported here. The Ag NPs were characterized by using UV-visible spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction, transmission electron microscopy, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy and Raman spectroscopy analysis techniques. The Ag NPs simultaneously and selectively detect Hg2+ and Sn2+ ions from aqueous solution. The sensitivity and selectivity of the prepared Ag NPs towards other representative transition-metal ions, alkali metal ions and alkaline earth metal ions were also studied. For more precise evidence, a density functional theory study was carried out to understand the possible mechanism and interaction in the detection of Hg2+ and Sn2+ by Ag NPs. The limits of detection for Hg2+ and Sn2+ ions were found as 15.7 nM and 11.25 nM, respectively. This assay indicates the possible use of garlic extract-synthesized Ag NPs for sensing Hg2+ and Sn2+ in aqueous solution very significantly. So, the simple, green, eco-friendly and easy method to detect the dual metal ions may further lead to a potential sensor of heavy metal ion contaminants in water of industrial importance.

Elucidation of S-Allylcysteine Role in Inducing Apoptosis by Inhibiting PD-L1 Expression in Human Lung Cancer Cells

AIM

The aim of this study is to explore the therapeutic potential of S-allylcysteine (SAC) organosulphur compound as a potent immune checkpoint inhibitor PD-L1.

BACKGROUND

Natural compounds have been showing tremendous anticancerous potential via suppressing the expression of genes involved in the development and progression of several carcinomas. This has further motivated us to explore the therapeutic potential of organosulphur compounds as potent immune checkpoint inhibitors.

OBJECTIVE

Our study was designed to elucidate the potential of S-allylcysteine (SAC) as significant PD-L1 (immune checkpoint) inhibitor in human lung cancer A549 cancer cell line by using both the in vitro and in silico approaches.

METHODS

Anticancerous effect of the SAC on lung cancer cells was determined by using the MTT cell viability. Apoptotic induction was confirmed by Hoechst staining, percent caspase-3 activity as well as gene expression analysis by real time PCR. Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS) was estimated by DCFDA method. Additionally, ligand-target protein interaction was analysed by molecular docking.

RESULT

Cell growth and proliferation was significantly reduced in SAC treated A549 cells in a concentration and time.dependent manner. The effect of SAC on apoptotic induction was analyzed by enhanced nuclear condensation, increased percent caspase-3 activity as well as modulation of apoptotic genes. Furthermore, SAC treatment also resulted in reduced expression of PD-L1 and HIF-1α. Additionally, in silico analysis also supported the in vitro findings by showing efficient docking with PD-L1 immune checkpoint target.

CONCLUSION

Therefore, our results clearly suggested that SAC could serve as a novel chemotherapeutic candidate for the treatment of lung cancer by inhibiting immune checkpoint target PD-L1 in human lung cancer cells. Additionally, our study also explained a novel molecular mechanism of its antitumor activity.

Organosulphur Compounds Induce Apoptosis and Cell Cycle Arrest in Cervical Cancer Cells via Downregulation of HPV E6 and E7 Oncogenes

BACKGROUND

The quest for strong, safe and cost-effective natural antiproliferative agents that could reduce cancer has been the focus now a days. In this regard, the organosulfur compounds from garlic (Allium sativum L.), like Diallyl Sulfide (DAS) and Diallyl Disulfide (DADS), have been shown to exhibit potent antiproliferative and anticancer properties in many studies. However, the potential of these compounds against viral oncoproteins in cervical cancer has not been fully elucidated yet.

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this study was to analyze the antiproliferative and apoptotic properties of DADS and DAS in HPV16+ human cervical cancer Caski cell line.

METHODS

Caski (cervical cancer cells) were cultured and followed by the treatment of various concentrations of organosulphur compounds (DADS and DAS), cell viability was measured by MTT assay. The apoptotic assay was performed by DAPI and Hoechst3342 staining. Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS) was estimated by DCFDA staining protocol. The distributions of cell cycle and apoptosis (FITC-Annexin V assay) were analyzed by flow cytometry. Finally, gene expression analysis was performed via quantitative real time PCR.

RESULTS

Our results showed that DAS and DADS exerted a significant antiproliferative effect on Caski cells by reducing the cell viability and inducing a dose-related increment in intracellular ROS production along with apoptosis in Caski cells. DAS and DADS also induced cell cycle arrest in G0/G1 phase, which was supported by the downregulation of cyclin D1 and CDK4 and upregulation of CDK inhibitors p21WAF1/CIP1 and p27KIP1 in Caski cells. Additionally, DAS and DADS lead to the downregulation of viral oncogene E6 and E7 and restoration of p53 function.

CONCLUSION

Thus, this study confirms the efficacy of both the organosulfur compounds DADS and DAS against cervical cancer cells.

Allium-Based Phytobiotic Enhances Egg Production in Laying Hens through Microbial Composition Changes in Ileum and Cecum

Phytobiotics (bioactive compounds extracted from plants) are one of the explored alternatives to antibiotics in poultry and livestock due to their antimicrobial activity and its positive effects on gut microbiota and productive properties. In this study, we supplemented a product based on garlic and onion compounds in the diet to laying hens at the beginning of their productive life (from 16 to 20 weeks post-hatching). The experimental group showed a significant increase in the number of eggs laid and in their size, produced in one month compared to the control. This increase in production was accompanied by microbiota changes in the ileum and cecum by means of high throughput sequencing analyses. These bacterial shifts in the ileum were mainly the result of compositional changes in the rare biosphere (unweighted UniFrac), while in the cecum, treatment affected both majority and minority bacterial groups (weighted and unweighted UniFrac). These changes in the microbiota suggest an improvement in food digestibility. The relative abundance of Lactococcus in the ileum and Lactobacillus in the cecum increased significantly in the experimental group. The relative abundance of these bacterial genera are known to have positive effects on the hosts. These results are very promising for the use of these compounds in poultry for short periods.

Types of garlic and their anticancer and antioxidant activity: a review of the epidemiologic and experimental evidence

Garlic, an Allium vegetable, contains rich flavonoids organosulfur compounds (OSCs) that have potent anticancer properties. The aim of the review is to provide an overview of the different types of garlic, their active compounds, and the potential anticancer benefits with a focus on antioxidant activity. Animal and cell line studies have provided convincing evidence that garlic and its organosulfur compounds inhibit carcinogenesis through a number of events including induction of apoptosis, inhibiting cellular proliferation, scavenging radical oxygen species (ROS), increasing the activities of enzymes such as glutathione S-transferase, and reducing tumor size. Epidemiological studies showed compelling evidence that garlic consumption is associated with decreased risk of colorectal cancer, but inconsistent evidence for stomach, breast, and prostate cancers. Studies also suggest that the presence and potency of garlic OSCs varies with respect to the preparation and form of garlic. Further epidemiological studies with information on garlic form consumed or preparation methods and molecular studies regarding its antioxidant mechanisms, such as increasing enzymatic and nonenzymatic antioxidants levels, are warranted.

Evaluation of Bioactive and Physicochemical Properties of White and Black Garlic (Allium sativum L.) from Conventional and Organic Cultivation

The aim of this study was to evaluate the bioactive and physicochemical properties of white and black garlic (Allium sativum L.) from conventional and organic cultivation. Both white conventional (G) and organic (EG) garlic were processed during 45 days heat treatment at 70 °C temperature and 80% relative humidity. In black garlic (BG) samples the content of soluble solids, total reducing sugars, total polyphenol as well as antioxidant activity significantly (p < 0.05) increased (by about 33.5%, 60.5%, 118.4%, 125.8%, respectively), while a pH significantly (p < 0.05) decreased (by about 41.1%) as compared to white garlic samples. The study showed significant differences between colour of white and black garlic, both in the L*a*b* and RGB colour space, especially in the case of the L* parameter, indicating that the colour of garlic changed from white to dark brown or black during the thermal processing. All organic garlic samples had improved bioactive ingredients and antioxidant activity compared to conventional garlic for both fresh (unprocessed) and heat-treated black garlic. The production of black garlic, especially organic (EBG), allows one to obtain a product with higher amount of bioactive compounds, which can be widely used in the design of health-promoting functional food.

Effect of Allium Extract Supplementation on Egg Quality, Productivity, and Intestinal Microbiota of Laying Hens

Simple Summary

The growing interest in phytogenic products for use in feed, especially in the poultry sector, is mainly due to the improvement in the productivity parameters and gut microbiota modulation properties. For this reason, phytogenic products are becoming excellent candidates as alternatives to the use of antibiotics in animal production to mitigate the negative effects derived from their use. The aim of this study is to explore the ability of allium extract (containing garlic and onion), used as an ingredient in laying hen feed, to improve performance. The promising results obtained in the present study suggest that Allium spp. extracts had the potential to be used in feeding laying hens to improve productivity, without affecting egg quality, and to modulate the gut microbiota.

Abstract

The use of allium extract containing propyl propane thiosulfonate (PTSO) as hen feed supplement was evaluated to demonstrate its positive effect on egg production and intestinal microbiota modulation. The study was carried out on 90 laying hens whose feed was supplemented with allium extract for 28 days. Nutritional properties of eggs were not affected, whereas an improvement in productivity was observed based on the increase weight of eggs. In addition, a modulator effect on intestinal microbiota was confirmed by the increase in Lactobacillus spp. and Bifidobacterium spp., as well as by the reduction in Enterobacteriaceae populations. Finally, the preservation of egg composition was checked by monitoring the content of PTSO, using a new analytical method consisting of the use of solid phase extraction and ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (UHPLC-MS/MS). Consequently, based on current results, Allium spp. extract rich in organosulfur compounds such as PTSO added to the diet had a beneficial effect on the microbiota and would seem to be a possible alternative to increase productivity, while not affecting the biochemical composition of egg. However, further studies on the effects of allium extract as feed supplement are necessary.

Anticancer potential of garlic and its bioactive constituents: A systematic and comprehensive review

Vegetables of the Allium genus, such as garlic (Allium sativum L.), onions, shallots, leaks, and chives, have been used for many years for food consumption and for medicinal purposes. Historical medical texts have indicated the therapeutic applications of garlic as an antitumor, laxative, diuretic, antibacterial and antifungal agent. Specifically, garlic's antitumor abilities have been traced back 3500 years as a chemotherapeutic agent used in Egypt. Other beneficial effects of garlic consumption include lowering blood pressure, blood cholesterol, sugar and lipids. The processing and aging of garlic result in the production of non-toxic organosulfur by-products. These sulfur-containing compounds, such as allicin, diallyl sulfide, diallyl disulfide, diallyl trisulfide, alliin, S-allylcysteine, and S-allylmercaptocysteine, impact various stages of carcinogenesis. The anticancer mechanisms of action of these garlic-derived phytochemicals include altering mitochondrial permeability, inhibiting angiogenesis, enhancing antioxidative and proapoptotic properties, and regulating cell proliferation. All these effects of garlic's sulfur-compounds have been demonstrated in various human cancers. The intent of this literature research is to explore the potential of garlic-derived products and bioactive organosulfur compounds as cancer chemopreventive and chemotherapeutic agents. This investigation employs criteria for systematic review and critically analyzes published in vitro, in vivo and clinical studies. Concerns and limitations that have arisen in past studies regarding standards of measurement, bioavailability, and method of delivery are addressed. Overall, it is hoped that through this systematic and comprehensive review, future researchers can be acquainted with the updated data assembled on anticancer properties of garlic and its phytoconstituents.

Influence of Thermal Processing on the Bioactive, Antioxidant, and Physicochemical Properties of Conventional and Organic Agriculture Black Garlic (Allium sativum L.)

This study examines the effect of fermentation processes (70 °C temperature; 80% humidity; 45 days) on the content of bioactive compounds (total polyphenols, selected phenolic acids, and flavonoids), antioxidant activity and physicochemical properties of conventional and organic garlic (Allium sativum L.). Raw garlic from conventional cultivation (GR) showed significantly lower content of phenolic components and antioxidant activity compared to raw garlic from organic cultivation (GREcol) (by 22.8% and 25.1%, respectively). The fermentation processes of the garlic from both the conventional (BG) and organic (BGEcol) cultivation significantly increased the content of total polyphenols (more than two times), phenolic acids (more than 1.5 times) and flavonoids (1.5 and 1.3 times, respectively). The garlic fermentation process also significantly increased antioxidant potential: two times for BG and three times for BGEcol. The content of bioactive compounds (total polyphenols, phenolic acids, and flavonoids) was significantly (p < 0.05) higher in organic black garlic (BGEcol) compared to conventional black garlic (BG). Heat treatment leading to changes in both the physicochemical, organoleptic and health-promoting properties allowed to obtain a new product gaining in sensory attractiveness and enabling a wide range of applications.

Comparative UHPLC-Q-Orbitrap HRMS-Based Metabolomics Unveils Biochemical Changes of Black Garlic during Aging Process

Aged black garlic (BG) is a functional food in global markets; however, very few studies have ventured into comprehensive profiling of BG metabolomes during the aging process. Herein, we exploited UHPLC-Orbitrap HRMS for a comparative metabolomics analysis. During the heat treatment, organosulfur compounds such as allicin, diallyl disulfide, ajoene, S-allyl-l-cysteine (SAC), and γ-glutamyl-SAC were downregulated. Plenty of glycerophospholipids together with shikimate, aromatic amino acids, and vitamin B6 vitamers were significantly augmented; tryptophan was however consumed to generate downstream products manifested in nicotinate metabolism and aminobenzoate degradation. These secondary metabolites serve as signaling mediators or protectants against extreme thermal exposure. Besides, Heyns compounds and Amadori-rearrangement byproducts with potential mutagenic effects were concentrated. Together, our findings expand the known metabolome space of BG processing and better elucidate the reactivities of the key metabolites. We provide in-depth insights into the biochemical changes of BG that enable further functional or toxicological investigations of this popular food.