Comparison of the anti-inflammatory effects of Sinapis alba and Brassica juncea in mouse models of inflammation

Three new compounds from the seeds of Sinapis alba L

Three undescribed compounds, 1-(4-hydroxyphenyl)-3-((4-hydroxyphenyl)thio) -2-propanone (I), 4'-hydroxybenzyl 4-(4''- hydroxybenzyloxy) benzyl thioether (II) and 3-(4'-hydroxybenzyl)-6-hydroxy-quinazolinone (III) were isolated from the seeds of Sinapis alba L. The structures of all compounds were elucidated based on NMR and MS analysis, along with the comparison with published data. The potential targets of compounds I-III were identified by virtual screening. The potential inhibitory effects of these compounds on protein kinase C theta type were compared by molecular docking. The docking score of compound III was the highest.

The Antioxidant and Chemopreventive Activity of a Nutraceutical Derived from Brassicaceae Seed Extracts for Colorectal Cancer

Background. Worldwide, colorectal cancer is the third most commonly diagnosed cancer. It is the second leading cause of cancer-related mortality. Recent studies establish a relationship between natural compounds from plants with the prevention and treatment of cancer. Specifically, glucosinolates with antitumoral capacity and polyphenols with the ability to scavenge free radicals that can cause cell damage have been identified in the Brassicaceae family. Objectives. Based on the previously mentioned factors, this study aimed to develop a nutraceutical made with extracts from different Brassicaceae seeds and study its antioxidant and antiproliferative action in vitro and in vivo using the AOM/DSS model in CC57BL6J mice. Results. Extract from the seeds of Eruca sativa and Sinapis alba showed the highest antioxidant capacity among the different species studied and were selected for nutraceutical formulation, which was potentially absorbable (73%) after an in vitro digestion process. In total, thirty compounds were identified in the nutraceutical that could be responsible for its antioxidant and tumoral prevention capacity. The intake of nutraceutical was a successful intervention to prevent the development of polyps by 31.6% and their size by 53.9%. When the nutritional intervention was used in combination with a physical exercise protocol, these parameters dropped to 52.3% and 62.6%, respectively. Conclusions. These findings suggest that the consumption of a diet rich in bioactive compounds from Brassica species, in combination with physical activity, is a valuable prevention strategy for colorectal cancer. However, more research is required to evaluate the efficacy and safety of these interventions in clinical settings.

Comprehensive Assessment of Anti-Inflammatory, Antiproliferative and Neuroprotective Properties of Cauliflower after Dehydration by Different Drying Methods

Cauliflower (Brassica oleraceae L. var. Botrytis Linnaeus) has various health benefits due to its rich bioactive compound content. However, this fresh vegetable faces challenges related to its perishability and short shelf life. This study explores the effect of five drying methods, namely vacuum drying (VD), convective drying (CD), infrared drying (IRD), low-temperature vacuum drying (LTVD) and vacuum freeze-drying (VFD), on the bioactive compounds and health-promoting properties of cauliflower. Analyses of amino acids, hydroxycinnamic acid and its derivatives, glucosinolates, and isothiocyanates, as well as evaluations of their anti-inflammatory, antiproliferative, and neuroprotective properties, were conducted based on these five drying methods. The results revealed that samples treated with VFD and IRD had a higher content of amino acids involved in GSL anabolism. Moreover, VFD samples retained hydroxycinnamic acid derivatives and glucosinolates to a greater extent than other methods. Nonetheless, the CD and VD samples exhibited higher antiproliferative and neuroprotective effects, which were correlated with their high sulforaphane content. Overall, considering the retention of most bioactive compounds from cauliflower and the topical inflammation amelioration induced in mice, VFD emerges as a more satisfactory option.

Anti-inflammatory, healing and antiophidic potential of Jatropha mollissima (Pohl) Baill. (Euphorbiaceae): From popular use to pharmaceutical formulation in gel

Jatropha mollissima (Pohl) Baill. (Euphorbiaceae) is widely used in traditional medicine to treat inflammatory disorders. So, a topical gel containing the hydroethanolic extract of its leaves was developed and evaluated for its anti-inflammatory, wound healing, and antiophidic properties in mice. First, the chemical profile of different parts of the plant was characterized by liquid chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry (LC-MS) using molecular networking. In the leaf extract, 11 compounds were characterized, with a particular emphasis on the identification of flavonoids. The gel efficiently inhibited carrageenan-induced paw edema, as well as acute and chronic croton oil-induced ear edema models, thereby reducing inflammatory and oxidative parameters in inflamed tissues. Besides anti-inflammatory activity, the herbal gel showed significant wound healing activity. The edematogenic, hemorrhagic and dermonecrotic activities induced by Bothrops jararaca snake venom were effectively inhibited by the treatment with J. mollissima gel. The association with the herbal gel improved in up to 90% the efficacy of commercial snake antivenom in reduce venom-induced edema. Additionally, while antivenom was not able to inhibit venom-induced dermonecrosis, treatment with herbal gel reduced in 55% the dermonocrotic halo produced. These results demonstrate the pharmacological potential of the herbal gel containing J. mollissima extract, which could be a strong candidate for the development of herbal products that can be used to complement the current antivenom therapy against snake venom local toxicity.

Sanpian decoction ameliorates cerebral ischemia-reperfusion injury by regulating SIRT1/ERK/HIF-1α pathway through in silico analysis and experimental validation

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Cerebral ischemia-reperfusion injury (CIRI) is a complex pathophysiological process involving multiple factors, and becomes the footstone of rehabilitation after ischemic stroke. Sanpian decoction (SPD) has exhibited protective effects against CIRI, migraine, and other cerebral vascular diseases. However, the underlying mechanisms have not been completely elucidated.

AIM OF THE STUDY

This study sought to explore the potential mechanisms underlying the effect of SPD against CIRI.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

High-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) and ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography (UPLC) were carried out to determine the chemical constituents of SPD. A network pharmacology approach combined with experimental verification was conducted to elucidate SPD's multi-component, multi-target, and multi-pathway mechanisms in CIRI occurrence. The pharmacodynamics of the decoction was evaluated by establishing the rat model of middle cerebral artery occlusion/reperfusion (MCAO/R). In vivo and in vitro experiments were carried out, and the therapeutic effects of SPD were performed using 2,3,5-triphenyltetrazolium chloride (TTC) staining, hematoxylin-eosin (HE) staining, and Nissl staining. We used terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick end labeling (TUNEL) staining and flow cytometry to evaluate cortex apoptosis. The quantification of mRNA and corresponding proteins were performed using real-time quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) and Western blot respectively.

RESULTS

Our research showed that pretreatment with SPD improved neurological function and inhibited CIRI. Network pharmacology revealed that the hypoxia-inducible factor-1 (HIF-1) signaling pathway and mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling pathway-mediated apoptosis may be associated with CIRI. In vivo and in vitro experiments, we confirmed that SPD increased cerebral blood flow, improved neural function, and reduced neural apoptosis via up-regulating the expression of sirtuin 1 (SIRT1) and down-regulating phospho-extracellular regulated protein kinases (p-ERK)/ERK and HIF-1α levels in CIRI rats.

CONCLUSION

Taken together, the present study systematically revealed the potential targets and signaling pathways of SPD in the treatment of CIRI using in silico prediction and verified the therapeutic effects of SPD against CIRI via ameliorating apoptosis by regulating SIRT1/ERK/HIF-1α.

Using Quality by Design Tools to Study Gel Formulation from Brassica juncea Leaves and Conducting its In vitro, In vivo, Molecular Docking, and ADMET Analyses

INTRODUCTION

This research aims to create a gel formulation of Brassica juncea leaf extract and assess its anti-inflammatory properties using an in silico study. The anti-inflammatory activity has been compared with Diclofenac molecules in PDB id: 4Z69. Further, the Absorption, Distribution, Metabolism, Excretion, and Toxicity analysis has been performed to ensure the therapeutic potential and safety of the drug development process. The Quality by Design tool has been applied to optimize formulation development.

METHODS

The extracted gel is characterized by performing Fourier transformer infrared, zeta potential, particle size, Scanning Electron Microscope, and entrapment efficiency. Further, the formulation is evaluated by examining its viscosity, spreadability, and pH measurement. An In vitro study of all nine extract suspensions was conducted to determine the drug contents at 276 nm.

RESULTS

The optimized suspension has shown the maximum percentage of drug release (82%) in 10 hours of study. Animal study for anti-inflammatory activity was performed, and results of all five groups of animals compared the % inhibition of paw edema at three hours; gel (56.70%), standard (47.86%), and (39.72%) were found.

CONCLUSION

The research could conclude that the anti-inflammatory activity of gel formulation is high compared to extract, and a molecular docking study validates the anti-inflammatory therapeutic effects. ADMET analysis ensures the therapeutic effects and their safety.

Shizhifang ameliorates pyroptosis of renal tubular epithelial cells in hyperuricemia through inhibiting NLRP3 inflammasome

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) Compound Shizhifang (SZF), consisting of the seeds of four Chinese herbs, has been used in Shanghai Shuguang Hospital in China for more than 20 years and has proven its clinical safety and efficacy in lowering uric acid and protecting kidney function.

AIM OF THE STUDY

Hyperuricemia (HUA)-induced pyroptosis of renal tubular epithelial cells serves as a significant cause of tubular damage. SZF proves to be effective in alleviating renal tubular injury and inflammation infiltration of HUA. However, the inhibiting effect of SZF on pyroptosis in HUA still remains elusive. This study aims to verify whether SZF could ameliorate pyroptosis in tubular cells induced by uric acid (UA).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Quality control analysis and chemical and metabolic identification for SZF and SZF drug serum were performed by using UPLC-Q-TOF-MS. In vitro, human renal tubular epithelial cells (HK-2) stimulated by UA were treated with SZF or NLRP3 inhibitor (MCC950). HUA mouse models were induced by intraperitoneal injection of potassium oxonate (PO). Mice were treated with SZF, allopurinol or MCC950. We focused on evaluated the effect of SZF on the NLRP3/Caspase-1/GSDMD pathway, renal function, pathologic structure and inflammation.

RESULTS

SZF significantly restrained the activation of the NLRP3/Caspase-1/GSDMD pathway in vitro and in vivo induced by UA. SZF was better than allopurinol and MCC950 in reducing pro-inflammatory cytokine levels, attenuating tubular inflammatory injury, inhibiting interstitial fibrosis and tubular dilation, maintaining tubular epithelial cell function, and protecting kidney. Furthermore, 49 chemical compounds of SZF and 30 metabolites in serum after oral administration were identified.

CONCLUSIONS

SZF inhibits UA-induced renal tubular epithelial cell pyroptosis via by targeting NLRP3 to inhibit tubular inflammatory and prevent the progression of HUA-induced renal injury effectively.

Sinapis Semen: A review on phytochemistry, pharmacology, toxicity, analytical methods and pharmacokinetics

Sinapis Semen (SS), the dried mature seed of Sinapis alba L. and Brassica juncea (L.) Czern. et Coss., is one of the traditional Chinese medicinal materials with a wide range of pharmacological effects being used for asthma, cough and many other ailments. SS is also widely used in food agriculture, medicine and other industries in North America and South Asia. More recently, the research on SS has gradually intensified and increased. However, there is no systematic review of SS. In this review, through literature exploration and analysis, the research advance on phytochemistry, pharmacology, toxicity, analytical methods and pharmacokinetics of SS was aggregated initially. Total 144 compounds have been isolated and identified from SS. Among them, glucosinolates and their hydrolysates and volatile oils are the main active ingredients and important chemical classification markers. SS has a wide range of pharmacological effects, especially in cough suppressing, asthma calming, anti-inflammatory, neuroprotective, cardiovascular protective, inhibiting androgenic effects, anti-tumor, and skin permeation promoting effects. Sinapine and sinapic acid are the main active ingredients of SS for its medicinal effects. However, SS has a strong skin irritation, presumably related to the time of application, the method of processing, and original medicinal plants. This review will provide useful data for the follow-up research and safe and reasonable clinical application of SS.

Effects of white mustard (Sinapis alba) oil on growth performance, immune response, blood parameters, digestive and antioxidant enzyme activities in rainbow trout (Oncorhynchusmykiss)

A study was conducted to evaluate the effects of dietary supplementation of white mustard (Sinapis alba) oil (WMO) on growth performance, immune responses, digestive and antioxidant enzyme activities in juvenile rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss). For this purpose, fish (initial weight: 25.77 ± 0.13 g) were divided into four experimental groups in triplicate and fed ad libitum twice a day with diets containing WMO at 0 (control), 0.5, 1, and 1.5% of diet for 9 weeks. Three fish from each tank (n:9 per treatment) were sampled on 21st, 42nd, and 63rd days for further analyses. At the end of the feeding period, fish were challenged with Aeromonas hydrophila and Yersinia ruckeri in two separate experimental setups. Results showed that final weight, weight gain, and specific growth rate were significantly increased in all experimental groups compared to the control. Feed conversion ratio was similar among treatments. Respiratory burst and potential killing activity decreased in all experimental groups compared to the control (P < 0.05). Lysozyme and myeloperoxidase activities were elevated in all experimental groups at the end of the experiment compared to the control (P < 0.05). Cytokine gene expressions in the head kidney and intestine were elevated in all experimental groups compared to that of the control in general (P < 0.05). Hematological responses of the experimental fish groups were similar to that of the control (P > 0.05). Pepsin and trypsin levels decreased in all experimental groups (P < 0.05). In terms of antioxidant enzyme activities, significant improvement in liver superoxide dismutase, catalase, and glutathione s-transferase activities in all treatment groups were determined (P < 0.05). In addition, a significant decline in liver lipid peroxidation levels was recorded in all treated groups at all sampling times compared to the control (P < 0.05). At the end of this feeding trial, no significant differences (P > 0.05) were observed in survival against A. hydrophila among experimental groups compared to the control (P > 0.05). However, increased survival against Y. ruckeri was determined in experimental fish groups (P < 0.05). This study suggests that white mustard oil had a favorable effect on the overall health and growth of rainbow trout.

Anti-Inflammatory, Antioxidant, and Skin Regenerative Potential of Secondary Metabolites from Plants of the Brassicaceae Family: A Systematic Review of In Vitro and In Vivo Preclinical Evidence (Biological Activities Brassicaceae Skin Diseases)

The Brassicaceae family constitutes some of the most well-studied natural products in the world, due to their anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidative, and pro-regenerative properties as well as their ubiquitous distribution across the world. To evaluate the potential efficacy of the Brassicaceae family in the treatment of inflammatory skin disorders and wounds, based on preclinical evidence from in vivo and in vitro studies. This systematic review was performed according to the PRISMA guidelines, using a structured search on the PubMed-Medline, Scopus, and Web of Science platforms. The studies included were those that used murine models and in vitro studies to investigate the effect of Brassicaceae on skin disorders. Bias analysis and methodological quality assessments were examined through SYRCLE's RoB tool. Brassicaceae have shown positive impacts on inflammatory regulation of the skin, accelerating the wound healing process, and inhibiting the development of edema. The studies showed that the Brassicaceae family has antioxidant activity and effects on the modulation of cyclooxygenase 2 and the nuclear factor kappa β (NFκβ) pathway. The secondary metabolites present in Brassicas are polyphenols (68.75%; n = 11), terpenes/carotenoids (31.25%; n = 5), and glycosylates (25%; n = 4), which are responsible for their anti-inflammatory, healing, and antioxidant effects. In addition, the current evidence is reliable because the bias analysis showed a low risk of bias. Our review indicates that compounds derived from Brassicaceae present exceptional potential to treat inflammatory skin diseases and accelerate cutaneous wound healing. We hope that our critical analysis can help to expedite clinical research and to reduce methodological bias, thereby improving the quality of evidence in future research. The registration number on the Prospero platform is CRD42021262953.

Yifei Sanjie Formula Treats Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease by Remodeling Pulmonary Microbiota

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is one of the most common pulmonary diseases. Evidence suggests that dysbiosis of pulmonary microbiota leads to the COPD pathological process. Yifei Sanjie Formula (YS) is widely used to treat diseases in respiratory systems, yet little is known about its mechanisms. In the present study, we first established the fingerprint of YS as the background for UHPLC-QTOF-MS. Components were detected, including alkaloids, amino acid derivatives, phenylpropanoids, flavonoids, terpenoids, organic acids, phenols, and the like. The therapeutic effect of YS on COPD was evaluated, and the pulmonary function and ventilatory dysfunction (EF50, TV, and MV) were improved after the administration of YS. Further, the influx of lymphocytes was inhibited in pulmonary parenchyma, accompanied by down-regulation of inflammation cytokines via the NLRP3/caspase-1/IL-1β signaling pathway. The severity of pulmonary pathological damage was reversed. Disturbed pulmonary microbiota was discovered to involve an increased relative abundance of Ralstonia and Mycoplasma and a decreased relative abundance of Lactobacillus and Bacteroides in COPD animals. However, the subversive effect was shown. The abundance and diversity of pulmonary microflora were remodeled, especially increasing beneficial genua Lactobacillus and Bacteroides, as well as downregulating pathogenic genua Ralstonia and Mycoplasma in the YS group. Environmental factor correlation analysis showed that growing pulmonary microbiota was positively correlated with the inflammatory factor, referring to Ralstonia and Mycoplasma, as well as negatively correlated with the inflammatory factor, referring to Lactobacillus and Bacteroides. These results suggest that the effects of YS involved remodeling lung microbes and anti-inflammatory signal pathways, revealing that intervention microbiota and an anti-inflammatory may be a potential therapeutic strategy for COPD.

Majie Cataplasm Promotes Th1 Response to Fight against Asthmatic Th2 Inflammation through NKs

Background

Immune cells are tightly bound up with the pathogenesis of asthma. Besides T cells, B cells, macrophages, and mast cells, the mechanism of innate lymphoid cells (ILCs) in asthma is gradually explicit. As a kind of traditional Chinese medicine, Majie cataplasm realizes its potential in the clinical setting as an adjuvant for asthma. In our previous experiments, Majie cataplasm inhibits the increasing Th1 and Th2 in allergic asthma inflammation and reshapes a balance between Th1 and Th2. As ILCs are the reflection of Th cells in lung tissues, we will figure out whether Majie cataplasm could have similar effects on ILCs or not.

Methods

A total of 40 female C57/BL6 mice were randomly divided into the control group (n = 10), the asthma model group (n = 10), the dexamethasone group (n = 10), and the Majie cataplasm group (n = 10). Except for the control group, mice were sensitized with ovalbumin (OVA) and excited to establish mice models of asthma. Lung tissue and splenic tissue were collected at 24 h after the last challenge with OVA, and the cell suspension of the lungs and spleen was prepared. The number of ILC1s, ILC2s, ILC3s, and NKs cells in the lungs and Tregs and B10s in the spleen were detected by flow cytometry (FCM). This was followed by simultaneous quantitative detection of 40 inflammatory cytokines and chemokines in the lung by a protein microarray.

Results

The dexamethasone and Majie cataplasm could restore the number of ILC1s, ILC2s, and ILC3s in lung tissue. Compared with the control group, these cells remained unchanged in the asthma model group, while ILC1s (P < 0.001, P < 0.01), ILC2s (P < 0.001, P < 0.01), and ILC3s (P < 0.01, P < 0.05) were restored after the intervention of dexamethasone and Majie cataplasm. The number of NKs was low among the control group, the asthma model group, and the dexamethasone group, while the number of NKs rocketed in the Majie cataplasm group (P < 0.0001). For splenic Tregs and B10s, Majie cataplasm could curb the increasing numbers of them in the asthma model group (P < 0.0001, P < 0.01), while only Tregs were suppressed by the dexamethasone (P < 0.0001). For the inflammatory cytokines in the lung, the contents of TNF-α, TNFR2, CXCL-9, CCL-12, CCL-9, CCL-2, and CCL-5 in the asthma model group were higher than those in the control group, while the contents of GM-CSF and IL-1α were decreased. Comparing the asthma model group to the dexamethasone group, the levels of G-CSF, CCL-9, CCL-5, and TNFR2 in the former group were higher. The levels of TNF-α, TNFR2, and CCL-9 in the asthma model group increase, while the levels of IFN-γ, IL-1α, ICAM-1, and IL-4 increased in the Majie cataplasm group, especially IFN-γ and IL-1α.

Conclusion

Both the dexamethasone and Majie cataplasm could control the asthmatic inflammation by reducing the inflammatory factors, inhibiting the adaptive inflammation reaction in the latter stage of inflammation and furtherly reversing the inhibition of ILC2s, ILC2s, and ILC3s. In addition, Majie cataplasm can promote the quantity of NKs and the content of IL-1α and IFN-γ, induce IFN-γ⁺NKs to shut down the Th2 response, and tend to elicit the Th1 response.

Metabolic profiling and pharmacokinetic studies of sinapine thiocyanate by UHPLC-Q/TOF-MS and UHPLC-MS/MS

Sinapine thiocyanate (ST) is an index component and pharmacological active component of Semen Sinapis and Semen Raphani, and it is widely used to relieving cough and asthma. This study aimed to obtain the metabolic and pharmacokinetic characterization of ST. The metabolic profiles of ST were obtained from rat plasma, urine, and feces via ultra-performance liquid chromatography-quadrupole-time-of-flight mass spectrometry (UHPLC-Q/TOF-MS). Thirteen metabolites were structurally identified, and the proposed metabolic pathways of ST included deamination, demethylation, hydrogenation, dehydration, and extensive conjugation, including glucuronidation and sulfonation. ST was selected as the plasma marker for the pharmacokinetic study. A simple and sensitive ultra-performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (UHPLC-MS/MS) method was developed for the quantitation of ST in rat plasma. The linear range of ST was 0.1-500 ng/mL (R² = 0.9976), and the lowest limit of quantification was 0.1 ng/mL. The intra-precision and inter-precision of the assay were 1.31-5.12% and 2.72-7.66%, and the accuracy (RE%) ranged from - 4.88% to 3.82% and - 3.47% to 6.18%. The extraction recovery, matrix effect, and stability of ST were within acceptable limits. The established method was validated and successfully applied to the pharmacokinetic study of ST. For pharmacokinetic experiments, the male Sprague-Dawley rats were administrated with ST solution intravenously (2 mg/kg) or orally (100 mg/kg). The oral absolute bioavailability of ST was calculated as 1.84%, and the apparent volume of distribution of intravenous and intragastric administrations were 107.51 ± 21.16 L/kg and 78.60 ± 14.44 L/kg, respectively. The maximum plasma concentration was 47.82 ± 18.77 nM, and the time to maximum peak was 88.74 ± 20.08 min for the intragastric dosing group. According to the pharmacokinetic and metabolic profiling results, metabolites with high abundance of ST in bio-fluids would be the next object in tissue distribution and pharmacodynamic study.

Structural Modification, In Vitro, In Vivo, Ex Vivo, and In Silico Exploration of Pyrimidine and Pyrrolidine Cores for Targeting Enzymes Associated with Neuroinflammation and Cholinergic Deficit in Alzheimer's Disease

To obtain a multipotent framework that can target simultaneously COX-2, 5-LOX, acetylcholinesterase (AChE), and butyrylcholinesterase (BChE) to treat neuroinflammation, a series of derivatives containing pyrimidine and pyrrolidine cores were rationally synthesized and evaluated. Pyrazoline-pyrimidine hybrid (23g), (3-acetylcoumarin derivative of pyrrolidin-1-yl)benzenesulfonamide (27), and tacrine derivatives of (pyrrolidin-1-yl)benzenesulfonamide (31, 38) displayed excellent in vitro COX-2 inhibition having IC₅₀ value in the nanomolar range. Tacrine-pyrrolidine hybrids 36 and 38, and tacrine-pyrimidine hybrid (46) emerged as the most potent eeAChE inhibitors with IC₅₀ values of 23, 16, and 2 nM, respectively. However, compounds 27, 31, and 38 possessed excellent simultaneous and balanced inhibitory activity against all of the four tested targets and thus emerged as optimal multipotent hybrid compounds among all of the synthesized series of the compounds. In the ex vivo, transgenic animal models treated with compounds 36 and 46 displayed a significant decline in both AChE and BChE potentials in the hippocampus and cortical tissues. In anti-inflammatory activities, animals treated with compounds 36 and 46 displayed a significant % inhibition of edema induced by carrageenan and arachidonic acid. Biochemical analysis and histopathological examination of mice liver indicate that tacrine derivatives are devoid of hepatotoxicity and neurotoxicity against SH-SY5Y neuroblastoma cell lines. In vivo acute toxicity study showed the safety of synthesized compounds up to 1000 mg/kg dose. The inhibitory manner of interaction of these potent drugs on all of the studied in vitro targets was confirmed by molecular docking investigations.

COVID-19, cytokines, inflammation, and spices: How are they related?

BACKGROUND

Cytokine storm is the exaggerated immune response often observed in viral infections. It is also intimately linked with the progression of COVID-19 disease as well as associated complications and mortality. Therefore, targeting the cytokine storm might help in reducing COVID-19-associated health complications. The number of COVID-19 associated deaths (as of January 15, 2021; https://www.worldometers.info/coronavirus/) in the USA is high (1199/million) as compared to countries like India (110/million). Although the reason behind this is not clear, spices may have some role in explaining this difference. Spices and herbs are used in different traditional medicines, especially in countries such as India to treat various chronic diseases due to their potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.

AIM

To evaluate the literature available on the anti-inflammatory properties of spices which might prove beneficial in the prevention and treatment of COVID-19 associated cytokine storm.

METHOD

A detailed literature search has been conducted on PubMed for collecting information pertaining to the COVID-19; the history, origin, key structural features, and mechanism of infection of SARS-CoV-2; the repurposed drugs in use for the management of COVID-19, and the anti-inflammatory role of spices to combat COVID-19 associated cytokine storm.

KEY FINDINGS

The literature search resulted in numerous in vitro, in vivo and clinical trials that have reported the potency of spices to exert anti-inflammatory effects by regulating crucial molecular targets for inflammation.

SIGNIFICANCE

As spices are derived from Mother Nature and are inexpensive, they are relatively safer to consume. Therefore, their anti-inflammatory property can be exploited to combat the cytokine storm in COVID-19 patients. This review thus focuses on the current knowledge on the role of spices for the treatment of COVID-19 through suppression of inflammation-linked cytokine storm.

Tat-thioredoxin 1 reduces inflammation by inhibiting pro-inflammatory cytokines and modulating MAPK signaling

Thioredoxin 1 (Trx1) serves a central role in redox homeostasis. It is involved in numerous other processes, including oxidative stress and apoptosis. However, to the best of our knowledge, the role of Trx1 in inflammation remains to be explored. The present study investigated the function and mechanism of cell permeable fused Tat-Trx1 protein in macrophages and a mouse model. Transduction levels of Tat-Trx1 were determined via western blotting. Cellular distribution of transduced Tat-Trx1 was determined by fluorescence microscopy. 2',7'-Dichlorofluorescein diacetate and TUNEL staining were performed to determine the production of reactive oxygen species and DNA fragmentation. Protein and gene expression were measured by western blotting and reverse transcription-quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR), respectively. Effects of skin inflammation were determined using hematoxylin and eosin staining, changes in ear weight and ear thickness, and RT-qPCR in ear edema animal models. Transduced Tat-Trx1 inhibited lipopolysaccharide-induced cytotoxicity and activation of NF-κB, MAPK and Akt. Additionally, Tat-Trx1 markedly reduced the production of inducible nitric oxide synthase, cyclooxygenase-2, IL-1β, IL-6 and TNF-α in macrophages. In a 12-O-tetradecanoylphorbol-13-acetate-induced mouse model, Tat-Trx1 reduced inflammatory damage by inhibiting inflammatory mediator and cytokine production. Collectively, these results demonstrated that Tat-Trx1 could exert anti-inflammatory effects by inhibiting the production of pro-inflammatory mediators and cytokines and by modulating MAPK signaling. Therefore, Tat-Trx1 may be a useful therapeutic agent for diseases induced by inflammatory damage.

Screening Anti-Inflammatory Effects of Flavanones Solutions

There are a large number of remedies in traditional medicine focused on relieving pain and inflammation. Flavanones have been a potential source in the search for leading compounds and biologically active components, and they have been the focus of much research and development in recent years. Eysenhardtia platycarpa is used in traditional medicine for the treatment of kidney diseases, bladder infections, and diabetes mellitus. Many compounds have been isolated from this plant, such as flavones, flavanones, phenolic compounds, triterpenoid acids, chalcones, sugars, and fatty acids, among others. In this paper, natural flavanone 1 (extracted from Eysenhardtia platycarpa) as lead compound and flavanones 1a–1d as its structural analogues were screened for anti-inflammatory activity using Molinspiration^® and PASS Online in a computational study. The hydro alcoholic solutions (FS) of flavanones 1, 1a–1d (FS1, FS1a–FS1d) were also assayed to investigate their in vivo anti-inflammatory cutaneous effect using two experimental models, a rat ear edema induced by arachidonic acid (AA) and a mouse ear edema induced by 12-O-tetradecanoylphorbol acetate (TPA). Histological studies and analysis of pro-inflammatory cytokines TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6 were also assessed in AA-inflamed rat ear tissue. The results showed that the flavanone hydro alcoholic solutions (FS) caused edema inhibition in both evaluated models. This study suggests that the evaluated flavanones will be effective when used in the future in skin pathologies with inflammation, with the results showing 1b and 1d to be the best.

Brassica juncea (L.) Czern. leaves alleviate adjuvant-induced rheumatoid arthritis in rats via modulating the finest disease targets - IL2RA, IL18 and VEGFA

Brassica juncea (BJ) is a familiar edible crop, which has been used as a dietary ingredient and to prepare anti-inflammatory/anti-arthritic formulations in Ayurveda. But, the scientific validation or confirmation of its therapeutic properties is very limited. This study was performed to determine the efficiency of BJ leaves for the treatment of Rheumatoid arthritis using in vivo and in silico systems. Standard in vitro procedures was followed to study the total phenolic, flavonoid contents and free radical scavenging ability of the extracts of BJ. The effective extract was screened and the presence of bioactive chemicals was studied using HPLC. Further, the possible therapeutic actions of the BJ active principles against the disease targets were studied using PPI networking and docking analysis. IL2RA, IL18 and VEGFA are found to be the potential RA target and the compounds detected from BJ extract have shown great binding efficiency towards the target from molecular docking study. The resulting complexes were then subject to 100 ns molecular dynamics simulation studies with the GROMACS package to analyze the stability of docked protein-ligand complexes and to assess the fluctuation and conformational changes during protein-ligand interactions. To confirm the anti-arthritic activity of BJ, the extract was tested in CFA-induced arthritic Wistar rats. The test groups administered with BJ extract showed retrieval of altered hematological parameters and substantial recovery from inflammation and degeneration of rat hind paw.Communicated by Ramaswamy H. Sarma.

Baccharis dracunculifolia (Asteraceae) essential oil displays anti-inflammatory activity in models of skin inflammation

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Baccharis dracunculifolia (Asteraceae) is a commonly used plant in traditional medicine known as "alecrim-do-campo". Popularly it has been used as an immunostimulant, antibiotic, anti-inflammatory among other applications. So far, only a few studies have investigated the B. dracunculifolia anti-inflammatory effect and none has investigated the effectiveness of essential oil on skin diseases.

AIM OF THE STUDY

The study aimed at evaluating the topical anti-inflammatory activity of B. dracunculifolia essential oil (BdEO) in mice models of acute and chronic skin inflammation.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

BdEO was obtained from leaves and it was analyzed with Gas Chromatograph. Topical anti-inflammatory activity of BdEO (0.1, 0.3 and 1.0 mg/ear) was evaluated in Arachidonic Acid or TPA-induced acute and chronic skin inflammation in mice. Parameters such edema, cell migration and keratinocytes proliferation were evaluated. In addition, safety and a possible mechanism of action for BdEO essential oil were also investigated.

RESULTS

Our results indicate that mainly terpenoids compounds compose BdEO. In addition, topical treatment with BdEO inhibited inflammatory parameters in both acute and chronic models of skin inflammation. This protective effect was associated with reduced edema formation, smaller cellular influx into the inflamed tissue and reduction of keratinocytes hyperproliferation. Although BdEO appears to exert its anti-inflammatory effect through a corticosteroid pathway, no local or systemic side effects were observed.

CONCLUSION

Taken together, the present results showed that the essential oil obtained by hydrodistillation from B. dracunculifolia leaf samples exhibit remarkable topical anti-inflammatory properties. Therefore, our study demonstrated evidence for BdEO topical anti-inflammatory efficacy and safety, suggesting that it could be considered for developing of a new phytotherapeutic formulation as treatment for skin diseases.

The mediatory role of Majie cataplasm on inflammation of allergic asthma through transcription factors related to Th1 and Th2

Background

Asthma, a common respiratory disease, is harmful biological effect to our health. As a traditional Chinese medicine for asthma, Majie cataplasm could alleviate the symptoms of asthma and its compositions have immunomodulatory effects. Previous experiments showed that Majie cataplasm was an effective approach to mitigate asthma airway remodeling and had the potential to regulate Th2 cytokines of IL-5 and IL-13. Therefore, our further research focuses on the explanation about the regulatory effect of Majie cataplasm on reshaping Th1/Th2 through their related transcription factors.

Methods

In this experiment, the launch of asthma model was made by inducing with Ovalbumin (OVA) in C57 mice (n = 40), including 4 groups: the untreated control group (n = 10), the asthma model group (n = 10), the dexamethasone group (n = 10) and the Majie cataplasm group (n = 10). After the intervention, all groups of animals got detected for serum IgE levels, and HE staining of lung tissues was to observe and examine pathological changes. Meanwhile, we analyzed the secretion of IL-4⁺ T cells and IFN-γ⁺ T cells in spleen by flow cytometry. The expressions of transcription factor STAT6 mRNA, GATA-3 mRNA and T-bet mRNA in lung tissues was tested by PCR, and western blot had been used to detect levels of JAK2 and STAT3.

Results

We found that Majie cataplasm eased the content of serum IgE and lung inflammation. It could lower the increased number of IL-4⁺ T cells and IFN-γ⁺ T cells (P < 0.0001, P < 0.01) in asthmatic mice and curb the expression of STAT6 mRNA and GATA-3 (P < 0.0001, P < 0.01) mRNA as well as the protein levels of JAK2 (P < 0.001) and the ratio of pSTAT3/STAT3 (P < 0.05). Besides, Majie cataplasm made its mark on T-bet mRNA by improving it (P < 0.0001).

Conclusion

These data suggest that Majie cataplasm exert an anti-inflammatory effect of Th2 by rebalancing Th1/Th2 through corresponding transcription factor STAT6, GATA-3, STAT3, and T-bet, which providing a strong cornerstone for asthma control.

Immunomodulatory Effects of Medicinal Plants used for Vitiligo in Traditional Persian Medicine

BACKGROUND

Vitiligo is a hypopigmentation disorder that affects 1% of the world's population. Vitiligo causes white spots on the skin, mucous membranes, or white hair by destroying skin melanocytes. The pathogenesis of vitiligo is unknown but autoimmune, autocytotoxic, and neural mechanisms are suggested. According to the autoimmune theory, in people with vitiligo, immune cells invade and damage melanocytes. T cells are more commonly present in vitiligo patients' skin and remain in the lesion site, which is composed of CD8 and CD4 T cells. Many studies have been conducted on the presence and role of cytokines such as interleukins and interferongamma (IFN-γ) in the vitiligo process.

AIM

This study aimed to introduce herbs effective against vitiligo from the perspective of Persian medicine and to investigate their possible therapeutic mechanisms with the possible effects of herbs on autoimmune mechanisms.

METHODS

For this purpose, keywords were used to extract data from Persian medicine textbooks, and then relevant scientific databases, including Google Scholar, PubMed, Web of Science, and Scopus were examined.

RESULTS

It was found that Persian medicine scholars used 50 different medicinal plants to treat and reduce the complications of vitiligo, and recent scientific studies have proven immune-regulating properties and reducing the effect of many of them on cytokines.

CONCLUSION

According to scientific evidence on immunomodulatory effects, new research into the effects of these plants on vitiligo can lead to the discovery of new drugs and approaches for treating this disease.

A randomized controlled trial for prevention of acute exacerbation of stable chronic obstructive pulmonary disease with acupoint application of traditional Chinese medicine: Study protocol clinical trial (SPIRIT Compliant)

INTRODUCTION

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a major public health problem that severely affects the quality of life of patients and may even endanger their lives. Although modern medicine has achieved significant results in relieving the clinical manifestations of COPD, it is difficult to prevent its progression and acute exacerbation entirely. As one of the classic aspects of acupuncture and moxibustion therapy, acupoint application of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) can improve the clinical efficacy of western medicine in treating COPD. To date, however,there is no high-quality clinical trial to assess the effectiveness of TCM acupoint application directly in preventing acute exacerbation of stable COPD.

METHODS

The study is a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial, in which 200 stable COPD patients will be randomly and equally divided into the experimental group or control group. Both groups will undergo standard Western medicine treatment; however, the patients in the experimental group will be also treated with TCM acupoint application, while the control group will be given placebo acupoint application. The duration of the treatment will be 1 month and a follow-up for 11 months. The primary outcome will be the number of acute exacerbation episodes of COPD, and the secondary outcomes will include the lung function, St George's Respiratory Questionnaire, COPD Assessment Test, and 6-Minute Walk Test. A safety assessment will also be performed during the trial.

DISCUSSION

The aim of this study is to evaluate the efficacy and safety of TCM acupoint application in preventing acute exacerbation of stable COPD. Our study will provide sound evidence to support the evidence-based medicine of TCM acupoint application as an additional measure in the prevention of acute exacerbation of stable COPD.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

ChiCTR1900026564, Registered 14 October, 2019.

Enhancement of the Anti-Inflammatory Effect of Mustard Kimchi on RAW 264.7 Macrophages by the Lactobacillus plantarum Fermentation-Mediated Generation of Phenolic Compound Derivatives

Mustard leaf kimchi contains numerous functional compounds that have various health benefits. However, the underlying mechanisms of their anti-inflammatory effects are unclear. In this study, changes in the mustard leaf kimchi phenolics profile after fermentation with or without Lactobacillus plantarum were determined using liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry/mass spectrometry (LC–MS/MS). To correlate changes in phenolic profiles with anti-inflammatory activities of the fermentation extracts, lipopolysaccharides (LPS)-stimulated RAW 264.7 cells were treated with the extracts. We identified 12 phenolic acids in mustard leaf kimchi fermented with L. plantarum. Caffeic acid, chlorogenic acid, epicatechin, and catechin substituted the metabolite abundance. Extracts of mustard leaf kimchi fermented by L. plantarum (MLKL) markedly inhibited nitric oxide production by decreasing interleukin 6 (IL-6), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), and cyclooxygenase 2 (COX2) expression levels in LPS-treated RAW 264.7 cells. Thus, fermentation with L. plantarum potentially improves the anti-inflammatory activities of mustard leaf and mustard leaf fermented with this microorganism may serve as a proper diet for the treatment of inflammation.