Mangiferin: A possible strategy for periodontal disease to therapy

Employing spectroscopic, calorimetric and structural bioinformatics approaches to decipher the binding mechanism of mangiferin with human transferrin

In recent times, neurodegenerative diseases (NDs), such as Alzheimer's disease (AD), Parkinson's disease (PD) and others, represent a major global health challenge with increasing prevalence and significant socio-economic impact. These diseases, characterized by progressive neuronal loss, currently lack effective therapies. Phytochemicals offer promising therapeutic potential due to their diverse bioactive properties. Mangiferin, a glucosylxanthone found in mangoes and other plants, has shown significant therapeutic potential in NDs. Human transferrin (Tf), an iron-binding protein crucial for iron homeostasis, is implicated in ND pathogenesis. This study delineates the interaction between Mangiferin and Tf. Molecular docking revealed Mangiferin predominantly interacts with Tf's binding site, engaging critical residues. Molecular dynamics simulations over 200 ns demonstrated the stability of the Tf-Mangiferin complex without major deviations. Fluorescence binding assays confirmed the strong binding affinity of Mangiferin to Tf. Additionally, Isothermal titration calorimetry (ITC) validated the spontaneous binding of Mangiferin with Tf, providing detailed thermodynamic parameters. The findings highlight the therapeutic potential of Mangiferin in NDs treatment through its interaction with Tf, offering insights into novel mechanisms of action and pathways for disease modification.

Anticonvulsive Effect of Glucosyl Xanthone Mangiferin on Pentylenetetrazol (PTZ)-Induced Seizure-Provoked Mice

Anxiety and depression are major side effects induced by currently available antiepileptic drugs; apart from this, they also diminish intelligence and language skills which cause hepatic failure, anemia, etc. Hence, in this study, we assessed antiepileptic effect of a phytochemical mangiferin. Epilepsy, a prevalent non communicable neurological disorder, affects infants and older population throughout the world. Epilepsy-induced comorbidities are more severe and if not treated cautiously lead to disability and even worse cases, mortality. The onset and duration of convulsion were observed. Seizure severity score was assessed by provoking kindling with 35 mg/kg PTZ. Prooxidants and antioxidants were measured to assess the antioxidant effect of mangiferin. Inflammatory markers were measured to determine the anti-inflammatory effect of mangiferin. The levels of neurotransmitters and ATPases were quantified to evaluate the neuroprotective effect of mangiferin. Mangiferin significantly decreased the onset and duration convulsion. It also decreased the seizure severity score, locomotor activity, and immobilization effectively. The excitatory neurotransmitter was reduced, and inhibitory neurotransmitter was increased in mice treated with mangiferin. Overall, our results confirm that mangiferin efficiently protects mice from PTZ-induced seizures. It can be subjected to further research to be prescribed as a potent antiepileptic drug.

Mangiferin promotes osteogenic differentiation and alleviates osteoporosis in the ovariectomized mouse via the AXL/ERK5 pathway

Mangiferin is a xanthone glucoside extracted from multiple plants, which has been shown to inhibit bone resorption and alleviate osteoporosis. However, the effect of purified Mangiferin on osteoporosis and its specific mechanisms is unknown. This study aimed to explore whether Mangiferin can promote osteogenic differentiation and alleviate osteoporosis in ovariectomized (OVX) mice and explore the potential mechanisms. Different concentrations and durations of Mangiferin were applied to MC3T3-E1 cells. The optimal concentration and duration of Mangiferin were determined by evaluating the cell viability via cell count kit-8 (CCK-8). The gene and protein expressions of AXL, ERK5, and osteogenic differentiation markers, including BMP2, Collagen1, OPN, Osterix, and Runx2, were detected using western blotting, qRT-PCR, immunofluorescence, and flow cytometry. Mangiferin was administered to OVX mice, and the severity of osteoporosis was evaluated by H and E staining, immunohistochemistry (IHC), microscopic computed-tomography (micro-CT) scanning, western blotting, and immunofluorescence of bone tissue. We found that Mangiferin promoted osteogenic differentiation in a dose-dependent manner at concentrations less than 30 μM. The 30 μM Mangiferin significantly upregulated the expression of AXL, ERK5, and osteogenic differentiation, including the ALP activity, percentage of alizarin red, and the levels of osteogenic differentiation markers. However, these expression levels decreased when AXL was knocked down in MC3T3-E1 cells and it could not be rescued by Mangiferin. Mangiferin relieved osteoporosis in OVX mice without causing severe organ damage. This study concluded that Mangiferin promoted osteogenic differentiation of MC3T3-E1 cells and alleviated osteoporosis in OVX mice. The potential mechanism was via the AXL/ERK5 pathway.

Anti-Inflammation and Anti-Pyroptosis Activities of Mangiferin via Suppressing NF-κB/NLRP3/GSDMD Signaling Cascades

Mangiferin (MF), a xanthone that extensively exists in many herbal medicines, processes significant activities of anti-inflammation and immunomodulation. The potential regulatory effect and mechanism of mangiferin on cell pyroptosis remain unclear. In this study, mouse bone-marrow-derived macrophages (BMDMs) were stimulated with 1 μg/mL LPS to induce cell pyroptosis and were treated with 10, 50, or 100 μg/mL MF for regulating pyroptosis. The cell supernatants TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6, and IL-18 were detected by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA); gene expression of TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6, IL-18, Caspase-1, Caspase-11, and gasdermin D (GSDMD) was tested by real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR), and protein expression levels of apoptosis-associated speck-like protein containing a caspase-recruitment domain (ASC), nod-like receptor protein-3 (NLRP3), caspase-1, caspase-11, GSDMD, and NF-κB were detected by Western blot. The results showed that MF significantly inhibited the secretion and gene expression of TNF-α, IL-6, IL-1β, and IL-18 that were elevated by LPS. Moreover, MF significantly suppressed the gene expression of Caspase-1, Caspase-11, and GSDMD, and decreased the protein levels of NLRP3, caspase-1, caspase-11, full-length GSDMD (GSDMD-FL), GSDMD N-terminal (GSDMD-N), and NF-κB. In conclusion, mangiferin has a multi-target regulating effect on inflammation and pyroptosis by inhibiting the NF-κB pathway, suppressing inflammatory caspase-mediated pyroptosis cascades, and reducing GSDMD cleavage in LPS-induced BMDMs.

Mangiferin inhibits hypoxia/reoxygenation-induced alveolar epithelial cell injury via the SIRT1/AMPK signaling pathway

Lung ischemia-reperfusion injury (LIRI) is one of the complications that can occur after lung transplantation and may lead to morbidity and mortality. Mangiferin (MAF) is a naturally occurring glucosyl xanthone that has been documented to possess anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory and potent antioxidant effects. The purpose of the present study was to investigate the effect of MAF on LIRI using a hypoxia-reoxygenation (H/R) cell model. In the present study, the viability of lung alveolar epithelial cells (A549) and H/R-A549 were detected by MTT assay. ELISA was used to evaluate the expression levels of IL-6 and IL-1β. TUNEL assay and western blotting were used to evaluate the apoptosis. In addition, H/R-A549 cells were treated with sirtinol, which is known inhibitor of sirtuin 1 (SIRT1) activity, to determine the effects of MAF on proteins associated with the SIRT1/5'AMP-activate protein kinase (AMPK) signaling pathway using western blotting. The results showed that 20 µM MAF exerted a protective effect on A549 cells against H/R mediating no clear cytotoxic effects. In terms of inflammation, MAF reduced IL-6, IL-1β, cyclooxygenase-2 and inducible nitric oxide synthase expression, which was accompanied by activation of the SIRT1/AMPK signaling pathway. In addition, compared with those in the group treated with sirtinol, expression of SIRT1, Bcl-2 and AMPK activity were elevated in MAF-treated H/R-A549 cells, whereas the expression of Bax, cleaved caspase-3 and cleaved caspase-9 was suppressed. TUNEL analysis of H/R-A549 cells treated with MAF in combination with sirtinol revealed that treatment with sirtinol blocked the SIRT1/AMPK signaling pathway and increased the apoptosis rate compared with the MAF group. Taken together, results of the present study revealed that MAF could inhibit lung H/R cell injury through the SIRT1/AMPK signaling pathway.

Modulator effect of mangiferin on biochemical characterization in 7,12-dimethylbenz[a]anthracene induced oral cancer in experimental hamsters

BACKGROUND

Newly, chemo-preventive technique might be a hopeful advancement in developing countries for treating cancers with the aid of toxic less natural based constituents. Malignancy urges to augment effectual chemo-preventive agents that are look forward to suppress the tumours which may be stimulated by chewing and smoking of tobacco and over alcohol consumption related with the high prevalence of human oral cancer (OC) patients.

METHODS

In the present research, we examined to assess antioxidants, lipid peroxidation (LPO) and detoxification enzymes levels of anticancer activity of mangiferin on 0.5% 7.12-dimethylbenz[a]anthracene (DMBA) provoked hamster cheek pouch carcinoma (HCPC). OC on hamster buccal pouch (HBP) was incited by DMBA treatment for thrice per week for over 14 weeks.

RESULTS

100% well defined OC establishment with body weight (bw), tumour burden (TB), antioxidant, LPO and liver marker enzymes and also histological changes were observed on DMBA-challenged buccal pouch carcinoma (BPC) in hamsters. Orally treated mangiferin at an effective dosage of 50 mg/kg bw, to DMBA painted hamsters were significantly averted the body weight, succession of tumour, the biochemical as well as histopathological changes.

CONCLUSION

Findings of this work clearly suggest that the anti-carcinoma effect of mangiferin possesses the modulator effects on potent antioxidant, anti-LPO and detoxification agents to expel the metabolites of malignant cells, on DMBA-provoked BPC in hamsters.

Therapeutic potential of mangiferin in the treatment of various neuropsychiatric and neurodegenerative disorders

Xanthones are important chemical class of bioactive products that confers therapeutic benefits. Of several xanthones, mangiferin is known to be distributed widely across several fruits, vegetables and medicinal plants. Mangiferin has been shown to exert neuroprotective effects in both in-vitro and in-vivo models. Mangiferin attenuates cerebral infarction, cerebral edema, lipid peroxidation (MDA), neuronal damage, etc. Mangiferin further potentiate levels of endogenous antioxidants to confer protection against the oxidative stress inside the neurons. Mangiferin is involved in the regulation of various signaling pathways that influences the production and levels of proinflammatory cytokines in brain. Mangiferin cosunteracted the neurotoxic effect of amyloid-beta, MPTP, rotenone, 6-OHDA etc and confer protection to neurons. These evidence suggested that the mangiferin may be a potential therapeutic strategy for the treatment of various neurological disorders. The present review demonstrated the pharmacodynamics-pharmacokinetics of mangiferin and neurotherapeutic potential in several neurological disorders with underlying mechanisms.

Central nervous system activities of extract Mangifera indica L

ETHNOBOTANICAL RELEVANCE

Leaves of Mangifera indica L. have folk-uses in tropical regions of the world as health teas, as a remedy for exhaustion and fatigue, as a vegetable, and as a medicine. Mangifera indica leaf extract (MLE) had previously been demonstrated to alter brain electrical activity in-vivo. The aim of the present series of studies was to investigate whether mangiferin, a major compound in leaves and in MLE, is responsible for the neurocognitive activity of MLE, and if the CNS activities of MLE have translational potential.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

MLE, tradename Zynamite, is produced by Nektium Pharma, Spain. Isolated mangiferin was tested in-vitro in radioligand binding and enzyme inhibition studies against 106 CNS targets. Changes in the electroencephalograms (EEG's) of MLE and mangiferin were recorded in-vivo from four brain regions. Two double blind randomized placebo-controlled crossover clinical trials were conducted, each with 16 subjects. At 90 min and at 60 min respectively, after oral intake of 500 mg MLE, EEG recordings, psychometric tests, mood state, and tolerability were studied.

RESULTS

Isolated mangiferin is a selective inhibitor of catechol-O-methyltransferase (COMT) with an IC50 of 1.1 μM, with no activity on the CNS targets of caffeine. Both mangiferin and MLE induce similar changes in long-term potentiation (LTP) in the hippocampus in-vitro, and induce a similar pattern of EEG changes in-vivo. In both translational clinical trials MLE was well tolerated, with no cardiovascular side-effects. In both studies MLE caused significant spectral changes in brain electrical activity in cortical regions during cognitive challenges, different to the attenuated spectral changes induced by caffeine. There were no significant changes in the psychometric tests other than reaction time for all groups. In the second study there was a trend to faster reaction time within group for MLE (p = 0.066) and the percentage improvement in reaction time for MLE compared to placebo was significant (p = 0.049). In the first study MLE improved all scores for Profile of Mood States (POMS), with the score for "fatigue" significantly improved (p = 0.015); in the second study the POMS score for "dejection" was improved in the caffeine group, p = 0.05.

CONCLUSIONS

Mangiferin is a COMT inhibitor of moderate potency and is the major CNS-active compound in MLE. Both mangiferin and MLE increase hippocampal LTP in-vitro, and induce a similar pattern of changes in brain electrical activity in-vivo. While the translational clinical trials of MLE are limited by being single dose studies in a small number of subjects, they provide the first clinical evidence that the extract is well tolerated with no cardiovascular side-effects, can induce changes in brain electrical activity, may give a faster reaction time, and decrease fatigue. These CNS activities support the reported folk-uses use of mango leaf tea as a substitute for tea and as a traditional remedy for fatigue and exhaustion. Extract Mangifera indica L., Zynamite, has nootropic potential, and larger clinical studies are needed to realise this potential.

Mangiferin inhibits lipopolysaccharide-induced epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and enhances the expression of tumor suppressor gene PER1 in non-small cell lung cancer cells

Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is often complicated by pulmonary infection, which affects treatment and prognosis. Bacterial lipopolysaccharide (LPS) is an effective stimulator of inflammatory cytokine production, and previous studies have reported that LPS promotes tumor invasion and metastasis. Mangiferin is a plant-derived C-glucosylxanthone with many biological activities, such as antioxidation and anti-inflammation. This research mainly explored the mechanism of its antitumor activities on LPS-induced A549, NCI-H460, and NCI-H520 NSCLC cells. We determined that mangiferin exhibits growth inhibiting activity against LPS-induced NSCLC cells through the 3-(4, 5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2, 5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay. In addition, mangiferin reversed the LPS-induced downregulation of E-cadherin (epithelial marker); conversely, it significantly inhibited the expression of raised vimentin (mesenchymal markers). Moreover, the ability of NSCLC cells to migrate, as evidenced by the wound healing and transwell migration assays, and the expression of CXCR4 increased by LPS were significantly repressed by mangiferin. In addition, mangiferin markedly mediated protein levels of PER1 and NLRP3 in LPS-induced NSCLC cells and reduced the secretion of IL-1β. These results indicate that mangiferin is not only a remarkable anti-inflammatory compound but also an antitumor agent; thus, it has the potential for being developed into anti-inflammatory and antitumor drugs in the future.

Mangiferin ameliorates acetaminophen-induced hepatotoxicity through APAP-Cys and JNK modulation

An overdose of the most popular analgesic, acetaminophen (APAP), is one of the leading causes of acute liver failure. It is well established that glutathione is exhausted by APAP-reactive intermediate N‑acetyl‑p‑benzoquinone-imine (NAPQI). This leads to elevated phosphorylated-c-Jun N-terminal kinase (p-JNK), which further activates reactive oxygen species (ROS), initiates an inflammatory response, and finally leads to severe hepatic injury. The present study was conducted to investigate the protective role of mangiferin (MAN), a naturally occurring xanthone and anti-oxidant, on APAP-induced hepatotoxicity. C57BL/6 mice were pretreated with or without MAN at 1 h prior to APAP challenge. MAN was administered at a dose of 12.5-50 mg/kg along with APAP at a dose of 400 mg/kg. According to the ALT/AST ratio, 25 mg/kg MAN was the most potent dose for further experiments. Serum ALT and AST depletion were observed in APAP + MAN (25 mg/kg)-treated mice at 6, 12, and 24 h. Early (1 h after APAP treatment) GSH depletion by APAP overdose was restored by MAN treatment, which reduced APAP-Cys adduct formation and promoted protection. p-JNK downregulation and AMPK activation were observed in MAN-treated mice, which could mechanistically reduce oxidative stress and inflammation. MAN up-regulated liver GSH and SOD and reduced lipid peroxidation. HO-1 protein and p47 phox mRNA expression indicated that MAN regulated oxidative stress along with JNK deactivation. The expression of inflammatory response genes TNF-α, IL-6, MCP-1, CXCL-1, and CXCL-2 reached the basal levels after MAN treatment. mRNA, protein, and serum levels of IL-1β were reduced, and NF-κB expression was similar to that of the MAN-treated APAP mice. MAN post-treatment (1 h after APAP treatment) also protected the mice from hepatotoxicity. In conclusion, MAN had a protective and therapeutic role in APAP-induced hepatotoxicity by improving the metabolism of acetaminophen and APAP-Cys adduct formation followed by JNK-mediated oxidative stress and inflammation.

Anti-neoplastic effect of mangiferin on human ovarian adenocarcinoma OVCAR8 cells via the regulation of YAP

Ovarian cancer is the most malignant gynecologic neoplasm in women and has the worst prognosis of all cancer types in women based on the 5-year survival rates. A previous study indicated that mangiferin exerts an anti-neoplastic effect on human ovarian cancer cells by targeting Notch3. Additionally, it has been demonstrated that Notch signaling is a functionally important downstream effector of Yes-associated protein (YAP), therefore it was hypothesized that YAP may be involved in the antitumor effect of mangiferin. The present study aimed to further reveal the mangiferin-mediated inhibitory effect on ovarian cancer and investigate the molecular anticancer mechanism of mangiferin. Based on the in vitro data, accompanied with the significantly reduced cell proliferation of mangiferin-treated cells compared with mangiferin-treated YAP-overexpressed cells (P<0.05), YAP expression was identified to be substantially downregulated by mangiferin. In contrast, observations of the cell morphology and apoptotic percentages revealed that the antitumor effect of mangiferin may be reversed by YAP overexpression. Furthermore, decreased levels of migration and invasion were observed in mangiferin-treated cells, which may also be abrogated by YAP overexpression. Thus, these data further demonstrated that mangiferin inhibits metastasis by regulating YAP. Additionally, due to the frequent chemoresistance observed in cisplatin-based chemotherapy, the present study evaluated the cisplatin resistance in OVCAR8 cells and elucidated that mangiferin may sensitize the tumor cells to cisplatin; and this improved sensitization was also abolished by YAP overexpression. These results collectively indicated that YAP was not only closely associated with the anticancer effect of mangiferin, but also mediated drug resistance in tumor. Furthermore, the downregulation of downstream TEA domain transcription factor 4 expression was observed in the mangiferin-treated cells, further validating the inhibitory effect of mangiferin on YAP. In addition, OVCAR8 cell xenograft models revealed that through increasing the sensitivity of a tumor to cisplatin, mangiferin inhibited the growth of a tumor and increased the survival time of tumor xenograft mice. Based on these results, it was concluded that mangiferin may inhibit tumor cell growth and enhance cisplatin-sensitivity in OVCAR8 cells via the regulation of the YAP pathway. Altogether, by targeting YAP and enhancing the response to cisplatin treatment, mangiferin potentially functioned as a novel therapeutic agent in the treatment of ovarian cancer.

Mangiferin: An effective therapeutic agent against several disorders (Review)

Mangiferin (1,3,6,7‑tetrahydroxyxanthone‑C2‑β‑D‑glucoside) is a bioactive ingredient predominantly isolated from the mango tree, with potent antioxidant activity and multifactorial pharmacological effects, including antidiabetic, antitumor, lipometabolism regulating, cardioprotective, anti‑hyperuricemic, neuroprotective, antioxidant, anti‑inflammatory, antipyretic, analgesic, antibacterial, antiviral and immunomodulatory effects. Therefore, it possesses several health‑endorsing properties and is a promising candidate for further research and development. However, low solubility, mucosal permeability and bioavailability restrict the development of mangiferin as a clinical therapeutic, and chemical and physical modification is required to expand its application. This review comprehensively analyzed and collectively summarized the primary pharmacological actions of mangiferin that have been demonstrated in the literature, to support the potential future development of mangiferin as a novel therapeutic drug.

Assessment of clinical efficacy of locally delivered 0.2% Thymoquinone gel in the treatment of periodontitis

Objectives

To evaluate the potential benefits of local application of Thymoquinone gel as an adjunctive to scaling and root planing (SRP) in subjects with chronic periodontitis.

Material and methods

Twenty subjects with 40 test sites were selected according to inclusion and exclusion criteria. They were further divided into 2 groups. Group I comprised of study subjects (Thymoquinone in addition to SRP) and Group II comprised of control subjects (only SRP). Clinical parameters such as Plaque Index (PI), Gingival Index (GI), Probing Pocket Depth (PPD), Relative Attachment Level (RAL), were monitored at baseline and 6 weeks post operatively. Alkaline phosphatase (ALP) levels in gingival crevicular fluid (GCF) were evaluated at baseline and 6 weeks post operatively using microcapillaries. In addition antimicrobial efficacy of Thymoquinone was evaluated against 3 bacteria using antimicrobial strains.

Results

Statistically highly significant reduction was observed in PI, GI and PPD, rise in RAL and GCF ALP level in both the groups at 6 weeks from baseline. On comparison between Group I and Group II, former demonstrated statistically significant reduction in PPD, GCF-ALP levels and rise in RAL but statistically no significant differences were observed in PI and GI at 6 weeks. On microbiological assessment of 0.2% Thymoquinone gel, it was observed to be sensitive against P. gingivalis, A. actinomycetemcomitans and P. intermedia.

Conclusion

Significant changes in clinical and biochemical parameters were achieved in the current study. Hence, it is concluded that intracrevicular application of 0.2% Thymoquinone gel could be a beneficial adjunct to SRP in treating chronic periodontitis.

Mangiferin inhibits cell migration and invasion through Rac1/WAVE2 signalling in breast cancer

Breast tumour progression results from the advancement of the disease to a metastatic phenotype. Rac1 and Cdc42 belong to the Rho family of genes that, together with their downstream effectors, Wiskott-Aldrich Syndrome protein-family verprolin-homologous protein 2 (WAVE2) and Arp2/3, assume a vital part in cytoskeletal rearrangement and the arrangement of film projections that advance malignant cell relocation and invasion. Mangiferin is a characteristic polyphenolic compound from Mangifera indica L. (Anacardiaceae), ordinarily referred to as mango, that is consumed worldwide as a natural product, including culinary and seasoning applications. Mangiferin delays breast malignancy development and progression by inhibiting different signalling pathways required in mitogenic signalling and metastatic progression. Studies were performed to analyse the impact of mangiferin on Rac1/WAVE2 flagging, relocation and invasion in highly metastatic human MDA-MB-231 mammary cells. Additional studies led to the observation that comparative treatment with mangiferin caused marked reduction in tumour cell movement and invasion. Taken together, these discoveries demonstrate that mangiferin treatment adequately hinders Rac1/WAVE2 flagging and diminishes metastatic phenotypic expression in malignant mammary cells, indicating that mangiferin may provide a benefit as a novel restorative approach in the treatment of metastatic breast cancer.

Mangiferin induces apoptosis in human ovarian adenocarcinoma OVCAR3 cells via the regulation of Notch3

Ovarian cancer is the most lethal gynecological malignancy in the world. Our previous studies showed that mangiferin, purified from plant source, possessed anti-neoplasm effect on human lung adenocarcinoma A549 cells. This study aimed to determine the apoptosis-inducing effect of mangiferin on human ovarian carcinoma OVCAR3 cells. By in vitro studies, we found mangiferin significantly inhibited viability of OVCAR3 cells, and remarkably increased the sensitivity of OVCAR3 cells to cisplatin. In addition, the activation of caspase-dependent apoptosis was observed in mangiferin treated ovarian cancer cells. Importantly, we observed an obviously downregulated Notch expression after mangiferin treatment, indicating the crucial role of Notch in mangiferin mediated apoptosis. In contrast, overexpression of Notch3 abrogated the apoptosis-inducing efficacy of mangiferin, further demonstrating that mangiferin induced apoptosis via Notch pathway. Furthermore, OVCAR3 cell xenograft models revealed that mangiferin treatment inhibited tumor growth and expanded survival of tumor xenograft mice. Based on these results, we concluded that mangiferin could significantly inhibit the proliferation and induce apoptosis in OVCAR3 cells. Our study also suggested the anti-neoplasm effect of mangiferin might be via the regulation of Notch3. Taken together, by targeting cell apoptosis pathways and enhancing the response to cisplatin treatment, mangiferin may represent a potential new drug for the treatment of human ovarian cancer.

In Vitro Comparative Study of the Inhibitory Effects of Mangiferin and Its Aglycone Norathyriol towards UDP-Glucuronosyl Transferase (UGT) Isoforms

Mangiferin (MGF), the predominant constituent of extracts of the mango plant Mangifera Indica L., has been investigated extensively because of its remarkable pharmacological effects. In vitro recombinant UGTs-catalyzed glucuronidation of 4-methylumbelliferone (4-MU) was used to investigate the inhibition of mangiferin and aglycone norathyriol towards various isoforms of UGTs in our study, which evaluated the inhibitory capacity of MGF and its aglycone norathyriol (NTR) towards UDP-glucuronosyltransferase (UGT) isoforms. Initial screening experiment showed that deglycosylation of MGF into NTR strongly increased the inhibitory effects towards almost all the tested UGT isoforms at a concentration of 100 μM. Kinetic experiments were performed to further characterize the inhibition of UGT1A3, UGT1A7 and UGT1A9 by NTR. NTR competitively inhibited UGT1A3, UGT1A7 and UGT1A9, with an IC₅₀ value of 8.2, 4.4, and 12.3 μM, and a Ki value of 1.6, 2.0, and 2.8 μM, respectively. In silico docking showed that only NTR could dock into the activity cavity of UGT1A3, UGT1A7 and UGT1A9. The binding free energy of NTR to UGT1A3, 1A7, 1A9 were −7.4, −7.9 and −4.0 kcal/mol, respectively. Based on the inhibition evaluation standard ([I]/Ki < 0.1, low possibility; 0.1 < [I]/Ki < 1, medium possibility; [I]/Ki > 1, high possibility), an in vivo herb–drug interaction between MGF/NTR and drugs mainly undergoing UGT1A3-, UGT1A7- or UGT1A9-catalyzed metabolism might occur when the plasma concentration of NTR is above 1.6, 2.0 and 2.8 μM, respectively.

New insights into the effects and mechanism of a classic traditional Chinese medicinal formula on influenza prevention

BACKGROUND

KangBingDu (KBD) is a classic traditional Chinese medicinal formula widely used to treat influenza. However, little information is available from controlled studies regarding the anti-influenza pharmacological activities of KBD and its underlying mechanisms, at least partly due to the lack of appropriate study models.

PURPOSE

We hypothesized that KBD might provide a protection against influenza infection by reducing the host's susceptibility to viruses. To prove it, mouse restraint stress model was employed.

METHODS

Mice were restricted and infected with influenza virus. KBD (13 and 26mg/kg/d) was orally administrated to mice from the first day of restraint stress and lasted for 7 days (twice a day). Mice were monitored daily for morbidity, symptom severity, and mortality for 21 days. The histopathologic changes were examined. For the study of mechanisms of action, we investigated whether KBD could promote mitochondria antiviral signaling protein (MAVS)-mediated antiviral signal and inhibit nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB)-mediated inflammation response.

RESULTS

KBD significantly decreased the susceptibility of restraint mice to influenza virus, as evidenced by lowered mortality, attenuated inflammation and reduced viral replications in lungs. Further results revealed that KBD elevated the protein expression of MAVS, which subsequently increased the IFN-β and IFITM3 protein levels, thereby helping to fight viral infections. Finally, we identified that (R,S)-goitrin, mangiferin, forsythin and forsythoside A were effective components in KBD against influenza viral infections.

CONCLUSION

KBD can reduce the susceptibility to influenza virus via mitochondrial antiviral signaling.

Mangiferin and Cancer: Mechanisms of Action

Mangiferin, a bioactive compound derived primarily from Anacardiaceae and Gentianaceae families and found in mangoes and honeybush tea, has been extensively studied for its therapeutic properties. Mangiferin has shown promising chemotherapeutic and chemopreventative potential. This review focuses on the effect of mangiferin on: (1) inflammation, with respect to NFκB, PPARү and the immune system; (2) cell cycle, the MAPK pathway G₂/M checkpoint; (3) proliferation and metastasis, and implications on β-catenin, MMPs, EMT, angiogenesis and tumour volume; (4) apoptosis, with a focus on Bax/Bcl ratios, intrinsic/extrinsic apoptotic pathways and telomerase activity; (5) oxidative stress, through Nrf2/ARE signalling, ROS elimination and catalase activity; and (6) efficacy of chemotherapeutic agents, such as oxaliplatin, etoposide and doxorubicin. In addition, the need to enhance the bioavailability and delivery of mangiferin are briefly addressed, as well as the potential for toxicity.

Molecular mechanisms underlying mangiferin-induced apoptosis and cell cycle arrest in A549 human lung carcinoma cells

Mangiferin, which is a C‑glucosylxanthone (1,3,6,7-tetrahydroxyxanthone-C2-β-D-glucoside) purified from plant sources, has recently gained attention due to its various biological activities. The present study aimed to determine the apoptotic effects of mangiferin on A549 human lung adenocarcinoma cells. In vitro studies demonstrated that mangiferin exerted growth‑inhibitory and apoptosis-inducing effects against A549 cells. In addition, mangiferin exhibited anti-tumor properties in A549 xenograft mice in vivo. Mangiferin triggered G2/M phase cell cycle arrest via downregulating the cyclin-dependent kinase 1-cyclin B1 signaling pathway, and induced apoptotic cell death by inhibiting the protein kinase C-nuclear factor-κB pathway. In addition, mangiferin was able to enhance the antiproliferative effects of cisplatin on A549 cells, thus indicating the potential for a combined therapy. Notably, mangiferin exerted anticancer effects in vivo, where it was able to markedly decrease the volume and weight of subcutaneous tumor mass, and expand the lifespan of xenograft mice. The present study clarified the molecular mechanisms underlying mangiferin-induced antitumor activities, and suggested that mangiferin may be considered a potential antineoplastic drug for the future treatment of cancer.

Identification of target proteins of mangiferin in mice with acute lung injury using functionalized magnetic microspheres based on click chemistry

Prevention of the occurrence and development of inflammation is a vital therapeutic strategy for treating acute lung injury (ALI). Increasing evidence has shown that a wealth of ingredients from natural foods and plants have potential anti-inflammatory activity. In the present study, mangiferin, a natural C-glucosyl xanthone that is primarily obtained from the peels and kernels of mango fruits and the bark of the Mangifera indica L. tree, alleviated the inflammatory responses in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced ALI mice. Mangiferin-modified magnetic microspheres (MMs) were developed on the basis of click chemistry to capture the target proteins of mangiferin. Mass spectrometry and molecular docking identified 70 kDa heat-shock protein 5 (Hspa5) and tyrosine 3-monooxygenase (Ywhae) as mangiferin-binding proteins. Furthermore, an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) indicated that mangiferin exerted its anti-inflammatory effect by binding Hspa5 and Ywhae to suppress downstream mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling pathways. Thoroughly revealing the mechanism and function of mangiferin will contribute to the development and utilization of agricultural resources from M. indica L.

Non-Nutrient, Naturally Occurring Phenolic Compounds with Antioxidant Activity for the Prevention and Treatment of Periodontal Diseases

One of the main factors able to explain the pathophysiological mechanism of inflammatory conditions that occur in periodontal disease is oxidative stress. Given the emerging understanding of this relationship, host-modulatory therapies using antioxidants could be interesting to prevent or slow the breakdown of soft and hard periodontal tissues. In this context, non-nutrient phenolic compounds of various foods and plants have received considerable attention in the last decade. Here, studies focusing on the relationship between different compounds of this type with periodontal disease have been collected. Among them, thymoquinone, coenzyme Q (CoQ), mangiferin, resveratrol, verbascoside and some flavonoids have shown to prevent or ameliorate periodontal tissues damage in animal models. However evidence regarding this effect in humans is poor and only limited to topical treatments with CoQ and catechins. Along with animal experiments, in vitro studies indicate that possible mechanisms by which these compounds might exert their protective effects include antioxidative properties, oxygen and nitrogen scavenging abilities, and also inhibitory effects on cell signaling cascades related to inflammatory processes which have an effect on RNS or ROS production as well as on antioxidant defense systems.

Mangiferin facilitates islet regeneration and β-cell proliferation through upregulation of cell cycle and β-cell regeneration regulators

Mangiferin, a xanthonoid found in plants including mangoes and iris unguicularis, was suggested in previous studies to have anti-hyperglycemic function, though the underlying mechanisms are largely unknown. This study was designed to determine the therapeutic effect of mangiferin by the regeneration of β-cells in mice following 70% partial pancreatectomy (PPx), and to explore the mechanisms of mangiferin-induced β-cell proliferation. For this purpose, adult C57BL/6J mice after 7-14 days post-PPx, or a sham operation were subjected to mangiferin (30 and 90 mg/kg body weight) or control solvent injection. Mangiferin-treated mice exhibited an improved glycemia and glucose tolerance, increased serum insulin levels, enhanced β-cell hyperplasia, elevated β-cell proliferation and reduced β-cell apoptosis. Further dissection at the molecular level showed several key regulators of cell cycle, such as cyclin D1, D2 and cyclin-dependent kinase 4 (Cdk4) were significantly up-regulated in mangiferin-treated mice. In addition, critical genes related to β-cell regeneration, such as pancreatic and duodenal homeobox 1 (PDX-1), neurogenin 3 (Ngn3), glucose transporter 2 (GLUT-2), Forkhead box protein O1 (Foxo-1), and glucokinase (GCK), were found to be promoted by mangiferin at both the mRNA and protein expression level. Thus, mangiferin administration markedly facilitates β-cell proliferation and islet regeneration, likely by regulating essential genes in the cell cycle and the process of islet regeneration. These effects therefore suggest that mangiferin bears a therapeutic potential in preventing and/or treating the diabetes.

Preventive effects of thymoquinone in a rat periodontitis model: a morphometric and histopathological study

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE

Thymoquinone has a variety of pharmacologic properties, including antihistaminic, antibacterial, antihypertensive, hypoglycemic, anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidative activities. Through its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, thymoquinone may play an important role in preventing periodontal diseases. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of thymoquinone in preventing the initiation and progression of periodontitis in a rat periodontitis model.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Twenty-four rats were randomly divided into three experimental groups: a nonligated (NL) treatment group (n = 8), a ligature-only (LO) treatment group (n = 8) and a ligature plus thymoquinone (10 mg/kg, daily for 11 d) (TQ) treatment group. In order to induce experimental periodontitis, a 4/0 silk suture was placed at the gingival margin of the right-mandibular first molars of the rats. Thymoquinone was administered by gastric feeding until the animals were killed on day 11. Changes in the alveolar bone levels of rats in each group were measured clinically, and tissues of rats in each group were examined histopathologically to determine inflammatory cell infiltration (ICI), osteoblast and osteoclast activities, and osteoclast morphology.

RESULTS

Alveolar bone loss around the mandibular molar tooth was significantly higher in the LO group compared with NL and TQ groups (p < 0.05). The ratio of the presence of ICI and osteoclast numbers was significantly higher in the LO group than in the NL and TQ groups (p < 0.05). Osteoblastic activity was significantly lower in the LO group than in the NL and TQ groups (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

The present study showed that the oral administration of thymoquinone diminishes alveolar bone resorption in a rat periodontitis model.