Active compounds from Lagerstroemia speciosa, insulin-like glucose uptake-stimulatory/inhibitory and adipocyte differentiation-inhibitory activities in 3T3-L1 cells

Bioactive small compounds effectively inhibit ChREBP overexpression to treat NAFLD and T2DM: A computational drug development approach

A glucose-dependent carbohydrate-signaling gene regulator named Carbohydrate response element binding protein (ChREBP), has recently been discovered as a major metabolic regulator of enzymes involved in the progression of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and type-II diabetes mellitus (T2DM). As a result, this research is aimed to identify natural small molecules as drug candidates that target the ChREBP in order to counter aggressive NAFLD and T2DM. A comprehensive in silico drug design strategy was implemented to find possible inhibitors of the targeted protein. A site-specific molecular docking approach was used to screen 20 FDA approved anti-diabetic drugs and 494 phytochemicals from the natural sources against the ChREBP, and the top ten compounds were selected for further studies based on their binding affinities. The ADME and toxicity profiles of the selected ten drug compounds demonstrated their efficacy and safety. The result of the MD simulations of the protein-ligand complex structures indicated their stability and potential activity. A comprehensive data screening process following docking, ADMET properties, and MD simulation approaches, five compounds (dieckol, isocorilagin, stachyurin, stachysetin and thonningianin A) with favorable values against the targeted ChREBP were demonstrated which indicates their strong potential as promising and effective drug candidates for the treatment of NAFLD and T2DM.

Protective Role of Dietary Polyphenols in the Management and Treatment of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), a serious metabolic disorder, is a worldwide health problem due to the alarming rise in prevalence and elevated morbidity and mortality. Chronic hyperglycemia, insulin resistance, and ineffective insulin effect and secretion are hallmarks of T2DM, leading to many serious secondary complications. These include, in particular, cardiovascular disorders, diabetic neuropathy, nephropathy and retinopathy, diabetic foot, osteoporosis, liver damage, susceptibility to infections and some cancers. Polyphenols such as flavonoids, phenolic acids, stilbenes, tannins, and lignans constitute an extensive and heterogeneous group of phytochemicals in fresh fruits, vegetables and their products. Various in vitro studies, animal model studies and available clinical trials revealed that flavonoids (e.g., quercetin, kaempferol, rutin, epicatechin, genistein, daidzein, anthocyanins), phenolic acids (e.g., chlorogenic, caffeic, ellagic, gallic acids, curcumin), stilbenes (e.g., resveratrol), tannins (e.g., procyanidin B2, seaweed phlorotannins), lignans (e.g., pinoresinol) have the ability to lower hyperglycemia, enhance insulin sensitivity and improve insulin secretion, scavenge reactive oxygen species, reduce chronic inflammation, modulate gut microbiota, and alleviate secondary complications of T2DM. The interaction between polyphenols and conventional antidiabetic drugs offers a promising strategy in the management and treatment of T2DM, especially in advanced disease stages. Synergistic effects of polyphenols with antidiabetic drugs have been documented, but also antagonistic interactions that may impair drug efficacy. Therefore, additional research is required to clarify mutual interactions in order to use the knowledge in clinical applications. Nevertheless, dietary polyphenols can be successfully applied as part of supportive treatment for T2DM, as they reduce both obvious clinical symptoms and secondary complications.

Floral Elegance Meets Medicinal Marvels: Traditional Uses, Phytochemistry, and Pharmacology of the Genus Lagerstroemia L

The genus Lagerstroemia L. (Lythraceae), known for its exquisite flowers and prolonged flowering period, is commonly employed in traditional medicinal systems across Asian countries, where it has always been consumed as tea or employed to address ailments such as diabetes, urinary disorders, coughs, fevers, inflammation, pain, and anesthesia. Its diverse uses may be attributed to its rich active ingredients. Currently, at least 364 biological compounds have been identified from Lagerstroemia extracts, encompassing various types such as terpenes, flavonoids, phenolic acids, alkaloids, and phenylpropanoids. Extensive in vitro and in vivo experiments have examined the pharmacological activities of different extracts, revealing their potential in various domains, including but not limited to antidiabetic, anti-obesity, antitumor, antimicrobial, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and hepatoprotective effects. Additionally, 20 core components have been proven to be associated with antidiabetic and hypoglycemic effects of Lagerstroemia. Overall, Lagerstroemia exhibit substantial medicinal potential, and the alignment between its traditional applications and contemporary pharmacological findings present promising opportunities for further investigation, particularly in food and health products, drug development, herbal teas, and cosmetics. However, evidence-based pharmacological research has largely been confined to in vitro screening and animal model, lacking clinical trials and bioactive compound isolations. Consequently, future endeavors should adopt a more holistic approach.

Rosarugosides A and D from Rosa rugosa Flower Buds: Their Potential Anti-Skin-Aging Effects in TNF-α-Induced Human Dermal Fibroblasts

This present study investigated the anti-skin-aging properties of Rosa rugosa. Initially, phenolic compounds were isolated from a hot water extract of Rosa rugosa's flower buds. Through repeated chromatography (column chromatography, MPLC, and prep HPLC), we identified nine phenolic compounds (1-9), including a previously undescribed depside, rosarugoside D (1). The chemical structure of 1 was elucidated via NMR, HR-MS, UV, and hydrolysis. Next, in order to identify bioactive compounds that are effective against TNF-α-induced NHDF cells, we measured intracellular ROS production in samples treated with each of the isolated compounds (1-9). All isolates reduced the level of ROS at a concentration of 10 μM. Particularly, two depsides-rosarugosides A and D (2 and 1)-significantly inhibited ROS expression in TNF-α-induced NHDFs compared to the other phenolic compounds. Subsequently, the production of MMP-1 and procollagen type Ι α1 by these two depsides was examined. Remarkably, rosarugoside A (2) significantly decreased MMP-1 secretion at all concentrations. In contrast, rosarugoside D (1) regulated the expression of procollagen type Ι α1. These findings collectively suggest that Rosa rugosa extracts and their isolated compounds, rosarugosides A (2) and D (1), hold significant potential for protecting against aging and skin damage. Overall, these findings suggest that Rosa rugosa extracts and their isolated compounds, rosarugosides A (2) and D (1), have the potential to prevent and protect against aging and skin damage, although more specific quantitative analysis is needed.

Lagerstroemia macrocarpa extract inhibits Th2-mediated STAT6 signaling pathway in human keratinocytes

In this study, we examined physiological functions as a key material to develop cosmeceuticals using extracts of Lagerstroemia macrocarpa Wall. Ex Kurz (L. macrocarpa). Initially, the L. macrocarpa extract was treated by different concentration and antioxidant assay (DPPH and ABTS) were performed to measure free radical scavenging ability. In the cytotoxicity experiment, the extract was treated into human epidermal keratinocytes with different concentrations to measure cytotoxicity. We found that the extract induces differentiation markers such as keratin (KRT)1, KRT2, KRT9, KRT10 in keratinocytes. Furthermore, the extract significantly induces involucrin (IVL), loricrin (LOR), claudin1 (CLDN1), and filaggrin (FLG) expression, suggesting that it may enhance skin barrier functions. Especially, the extract restored FLG expression inhibited by interleukin (IL)-4/IL-13 in in vitro atopic dermatitis-like model. Therefore, we expect L. macrocarpa extract will be an effective material to develop the therapeutic and cosmeceutical of atopic dermatitis.

Phenolic Compounds and Antioxidant Capacity Comparison of Wild-Type and Yellow-Leaf gl1 Mutant of Lagerstroemia indica

BACKGROUND

The yellow-leaf gl1 mutant of Lagerstroemia indica exhibits an altered phenylpropanoid metabolism pathway compared to wild-type (WT). However, details on the metabolites associated with leaf color variation, including color-specific metabolites with bioactive constituents, are not fully understood.

METHODS

Chemical and metabolomics approaches were used to compare metabolite composition and antioxidant capacity between the gl1 mutant and WT leaves.

RESULTS

The mutant exhibited an irregular xylem structure with a significantly lower phenolic polymer lignin content and higher soluble phenolic compounds. Untargeted metabolomics analysis identified phenolic compounds, particularly lignans, as key differential metabolites between gl1 and WT, with a significant increase in the mutant. The neolignan derivative balanophonin-4-O-D-glu was identified as a characteristic metabolite in the gl1 mutant. The soluble phenolic compounds of the gl1 mutant exhibited higher FRAP, ABTS, DPPH, and hydroxyl radical scavenging activity than in WT. Correlation analysis showed a positive relationship between antioxidant capacity and phenolic compounds in L. indica.

CONCLUSIONS

Metabolites associated with leaf color variation in the L. indica yellow-leaf gl1 mutant demonstrated high antioxidant capacity, particularly in scavenging hydroxyl radicals.

Identification of Antioxidative Hydrolyzable Tannins in Water Chestnut

Despite the various biological activities exhibited by water chestnut (the fruit of the Trapa genus), the phenolic compounds present in its extract require comprehensive characterization. Accordingly, we analyzed a 80% methanol extract of commercially available water chestnut and identified a new hydrolyzable tannin dimer termed trapadin A. Additionally, 22 known compounds, including 10 hydrolyzable tannin monomers and 2 dimers, were also detected in the extract. Spectroscopic and chemical methods were used to elucidate the structure of trapadin A, revealing it to be a hydrolyzable tannin dimer formed from units of tellimagrandin II and 1,2,3,6-tetra-O-galloyl-β-d-glucose. Moreover, the 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl radical scavenging activity assay used to determine the half-maximal effective concentration values for the 23 compounds isolated from water chestnut indicated significant radical scavenging activity associated with hydrolyzable tannins. Notably, trapadin A, the new hydrolyzable tannin dimer, exhibited the highest activity value among the tested compounds.

Ellagic acid from pomegranate peel: Consecutive countercurrent chromatographic separation and antioxidant effect

Ellagic acid is one of the most representative natural antioxidants, and is rich in pomegranate peel. In this study, a consecutive countercurrent chromatographic (CCC) separation method was established to improve the preparative efficiency of ellagic acid from pomegranate peel. By optimizing the solvent system, sample size and flow rate, 280 mg of ellagic acid was obtained from 5 g of crude sample from pomegranate peel by CCC after six consecutive injections. Moreover, the values of EC50 for ellagic acid in scavenging ABTS·+ and DPPH· were 4.59 ± 0.07 and 10.54 ± 0.07 μg/ml, respectively, indicating a strong antioxidant activity. This study not only established a high-throughput method for the preparation of ellagic acid, but also provided a successful example for the development of and research on other natural antioxidants.

Localized surface plasmon resonance shift of biosynthesized and functionalized quasi-spherical gold nanoparticle systems

Rapid and more environment-friendly means of gold nanoparticle synthesis is necessary in many applications, as in ion detection. Leaf extracts have become effective and economical reducing agents for gold nanoparticle formation, however, effects of extract combinations have not been thoroughly investigated. With the exploitation of combined extract effects, gold nanoparticles were synthesized then functionalized and investigated to produce selected nanoparticle systems which are capable of detecting aqueous lead(ii) ions with minimum detection limits of 10-11 ppm. The measured localized surface plasmon resonance absorption peaks of the gold nanoparticles were 541-800 nm for the synthesis and 549 nm for the functionalization. The diameters of different gold nanoparticle systems were 17-37 nm. These were mostly quasi-spherical in morphology with some rod-, triangular-, and hexagonal plate-like particles. The biosynthesis used polyphenols and acids present in the extracts in the reduction of gold ions into gold nanoparticles, and in the nanoparticle capping and stabilization. Functionalization replaced the capping compounds with alliin, S-allylcysteine, allicin, and ajoene. Gold nanoparticle stability in aqueous systems was verified for two weeks up to five months. The investigations concluded the practicability of the gold nanoparticles in lead(ii) ion detection with selectivity initially verified for other divalent cations.

Antileishmanial and Antiplasmodial Activities of Secondary Metabolites from the Root of Antrocaryon klaineanum Pierre (Anacardiaceae)

Antrocaryon klaineanum is traditionally used for the treatment of back pain, malaria, female sterility, chlamydiae infections, liver diseases, wounds, and hemorrhoid. This work aimed at investigating the bioactive compounds with antileishmanial and antiplasmodial activities from A. klaineanum. An unreported glucocerebroside antroklaicerebroside (1) together with five known compounds (2-6) were isolated from the root barks of Antrocaryon klaineanum using chromatographic techniques. The NMR, MS, and IR spectroscopic data in association with previous literature were used for the characterization of all the isolated compounds. Compounds 1-4 are reported for the first time from A. klaineanum. The methanol crude extract (AK-MeOH), the n-hexane fraction (AK-Hex), the dichloromethane fraction (AK-DCM), the ethyl acetate fraction (AK-EtOAc), and compounds 1-6 were all evaluated for their antiparasitic effects against Plasmodium falciparum strains susceptible to chloroquine (3D7), resistant to chloroquine (Dd2), and promastigotes of Leishmania donovani (MHOM/SD/62/1S). The AK-Hex, AK-EtOAc, AK-MeOH, and compound 2 were strongly active against Dd2 strain with IC50 ranging from 2.78 ± 0.06 to 9.30 ± 0.29 µg/mL. Particularly, AK-MeOH was the most active-more than the reference drugs used-with an IC50 of 2.78 ± 0.06 µg/mL. The AK-EtOAc as well as all the tested compounds showed strong antileishmanial activities with IC50 ranging from 4.80 ± 0.13 to 9.14 ± 0.96 µg/mL.

Urinary Phenolic Metabolites Associated with Peanut Consumption May Have a Beneficial Impact on Vascular Health Biomarkers

Phenolic compounds in peanuts may moderate inflammation and endothelial function. Thus, the aim of this study was to evaluate the association of urinary phenolic metabolites (UPMs) with vascular biomarkers after peanut product consumption. A three-arm parallel-group randomized controlled trial was conducted in 63 healthy young adults who consumed 25 g/day of skin roasted peanuts (SRP), 32 g/day of peanut butter (PB), or 32 g/day of a control butter for six months. UPMs were analyzed by liquid chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry. Additionally, urinary eicosanoids, prostacyclin I2 (PGI2), and thromboxane A2 (TXA2) were determined using two competitive enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay kits. Consumers of SRP and PB presented significantly higher excretion of UPMs (enterodiol glucuronide (p = 0.018 and p = 0.031), 3-hydroxybenzoic acid (p = 0.002 and p < 0.001), vanillic acid sulfate (p = 0.048 and p = 0.006), p-coumaric acid (p = 0.046 and p = 0.016), coumaric acid glucuronide I (p = 0.001 and p = 0.030) and II (p = 0.003 and p = 0.036), and isoferulic acid (p = 0.013 and p = 0.015) in comparison with the control group. An improvement in PGI2 (p = 0.037) levels and the TXA2:PGI2 ratio (p = 0.008) was also observed after the peanut interventions compared to the control. Interestingly, UPMs with significantly higher post-intervention levels were correlated with an improvement in vascular biomarkers, lower TXA2 (r from −0.25 to −0.48, p < 0.050) and TXA2:PGI2 ratio (r from −0.25 to −0.43, p < 0.050) and higher PGI2 (r from 0.24 to 0.36, p < 0.050). These findings suggest that the UPMs with higher excretion after peanut product consumption could have a positive impact on vascular health.

Potentilloside A, a New Flavonol-bis-Glucuronide from the Leaves of Potentilla chinensis, Inhibits TNF-α-Induced ROS Generation and MMP-1 Secretion

The major contributor to skin aging is UV radiation, which activates pro-inflammatory cytokines including TNF-α. TNF-α is involved in the acceleration of skin aging via ROS generation and MMP-1 secretion. In our preliminary study, a 30% EtOH extract from the leaves of Potentilla chinensis (LPCE) significantly inhibited TNF-α-induced ROS generation in human dermal fibroblasts (HDFs). Therefore, the objective of this study is to identify the active components in LPCE. A new flavonol-bis-glucuronide (potentilloside A, 1) and 14 known compounds (2-15) were isolated from an LPCE by repeated chromatography. The chemical structure of the new compound 1 was determined by analyzing its spectroscopic data (NMR and HRMS) and by acidic hydrolysis. Nine flavonols (2-9 and 11) and two flavone glycosides (12 and 13) from P. chinensis were reported for the first time in this study. Next, we evaluated the effects of the isolates (1-15) on TNF-α-induced ROS generation in HDFs. As a result, all compounds significantly inhibited ROS generation. Furthermore, LPCE and potentilloside A (1) remarkably suppressed MMP-1 secretion in HDFs stimulated by TNF-α. The data suggested that LPCE and potentilloside A (1) are worthy of further experiments for their potential as anti-skin aging agents.

Urolithins and intestinal health

There are trillions of microorganisms in the human intestine. They can react to the intestinal microenvironment by metabolizing food or producing small molecular compounds to affect the host's digestive ability and resist the risk of infection and autoimmune diseases. Many studies have revealed that intestinal flora and its metabolites play an important role in human physiology and the development of diseases. Urolithins are kind of intestinal microbiota metabolites of ellagitannins (ETs) and ellagic acid (EA) with potent biological activity in vivo. However, different individuals have different intestinal flora. According to the different metabolites from ETs and EA, it is divided into three metabo-types including UM-A, UM-B and UM-0. This paper reviews the origin of urolithins, the urolithin producing microorganisms and the effects of urolithins on regulating intestinal diseases. This review will provide a theoretical basis for the regulation of urolithins in the homeostasis of intestinal flora and a reference for the scientific utilization of urolithins and foods rich in ETs and EA.

Polycyclic Phenol Derivatives from the Leaves of Spermacoce latifolia and Their Antibacterial and α-Glucosidase Inhibitory Activity

Three new polycyclic phenol derivatives, 2-acetyl-4-hydroxy-6H-furo [2,3-g]chromen-6-one (1), 2-(1′,2′-dihydroxypropan-2′-yl)-4-hydroxy-6H-furo [2,3-g][1]benzopyran-6-one (2) and 3,8,10-trihydroxy-4,9-dimethoxy-6H-benzo[c]chromen-6-one (8), along with seven known ones (3–7, 9 and 10) were isolated for the first time from the leaves of Spermacoce latifolia. Their structures were determined by spectroscopic analysis and comparison with literature-reported data. These compounds were tested for their in vitro antibacterial activity against four Gram-(+) bacteria: Staphyloccocus aureus (SA), methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), Bacillus cereus (BC), Bacillus subtilis (BS), and the Gram-(−) bacterium Escherichia coli. Compounds 1, 2, 5 and 8 showed antibacterial activity toward SA, BC and BS with MIC values ranging from 7.8 to 62.5 µg/mL, but they were inactive to MRSA. Compound 4 not only showed the best antibacterial activity against SA, BC and BS, but it further displayed significant antibacterial activity against MRSA (MIC 1.95 µg/mL) even stronger than vancomycin (MIC 3.9 µg/mL). No compounds showed inhibitory activity toward E. coli. Further bioassay indicated that compounds 1, 4, 5, 6, 8 and 9 showed in vitro α-glucosidase inhibitory activity, among which compound 9 displayed the best α-glucosidase inhibitory activity with IC₅₀ value (0.026 mM) about 15-fold stronger than the reference compound acarbose (IC₅₀ 0.408 mM). These results suggested that compounds 4, 8 and 9 were potentially highly valuable compounds worthy of consideration to be further developed as an effective anti-MRSA agent or effective α-glucosidase inhibitors, respectively. In addition, the obtained data also supported that S. latifolia was rich in structurally diverse bioactive compounds worthy of further investigation, at least in searching for potential antibiotics and α-glucosidase inhibitors.

Triterpenes and Phenolic Compounds from Euphorbia deightonii with Antiviral Activity against Herpes Simplex Virus Type-2

Two undescribed compounds, 3β,7β-dihydroxy-24-methylenelanosta-8-ene-11-one (1) and neolignane deightonin (4) were isolated from the aerial parts of Euphorbia deightonii Croizat together with six known compounds, namely, kansenone (2), euphorbol-7-one (3), dehydrodiconiferyl diacetate (5), marylaurencinol D (6), scoparon (7), and 3,4,3′-tri-O-methylellagic acid (8). The structures of the isolated compounds were determined by HRESIMS, 1D (1H, 13C JMOD) and 2D NMR (HSQC, HMBC, 1H–1H COSY, NOESY) spectroscopic analysis, and by comparison of the assignments with literature data. The anti-herpes simplex virus type-2 activity of the isolated compounds were investigated by qRT-PCR assay on Vero cells after determining cytotoxic concentration 50% (CC50). Compounds 1, 3, 4, and 7 exhibited inhibitory effects with respective IC50 values of 7.05, 2.42, 11.73, and 0.032 µM. Scoparon (7) showed the strongest anti-HSV activity with a selectivity index of 10.93.

Adipose and non-adipose perspectives of plant derived natural compounds for mitigation of obesity

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Phyto-preparations and phyto-compounds, by their natural origin, easy availability, cost-effectiveness, and fruitful traditional uses based on accumulated experiences, have been extensively explored to mitigate the global burden of obesity.

AIM OF THIS REVIEW

The review aimed to analyse and critically summarize the prospect of future anti-obesity drug leads from the extant array of phytochemicals for mitigation of obesity, using adipose related targets (adipocyte formation, lipid metabolism, and thermogenesis) and non-adipose targets (hepatic lipid metabolism, appetite, satiety, and pancreatic lipase activity). Phytochemicals as inhibitors of adipocyte differentiation, modulators of lipid metabolism, and thermogenic activators of adipocytes are specifically discussed with their non-adipose anti-obesogenic targets.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

PubMed, Google Scholar, Scopus, and SciFinder were accessed to collect data on traditional medicinal plants, compounds derived from plants, their reported anti-obesity mechanisms, and therapeutic targets. The taxonomically accepted name of each plant in this review has been vetted from "The Plant List" (www.theplantlist.org) or MPNS (http://mpns.kew.org).

RESULTS

Available knowledge of a large number of phytochemicals, across a range of adipose and non-adipose targets, has been critically analysed and delineated by graphical and tabular depictions, towards mitigation of obesity. Neuro-endocrinal modulation in non-adipose targets brought into sharp dual focus, both non-adipose and adipose targets as the future of anti-obesity research. Numerous phytochemicals (Berberine, Xanthohumol, Ursolic acid, Guggulsterone, Tannic acid, etc.) have been found to be effectively reducing weight through lowered adipocyte formation, increased lipolysis, decreased lipogenesis, and enhanced thermogenesis. They have been affirmed as potential anti-obesity drugs of future because of their effectiveness yet having no threat to adipose or systemic insulin sensitivity.

CONCLUSION

Due to high molecular diversity and a greater ratio of benefit to risk, plant derived compounds hold high therapeutic potential to tackle obesity and associated risks. This review has been able to generate fresh perspectives on the anti-diabetic/anti-hyperglycemic/anti-obesity effect of phytochemicals. It has also brought into the focus that many phytochemicals demonstrating in vitro anti-obesogenic effects are yet to undergo in vivo investigation which could lead to potential phyto-molecules for dedicated anti-obesity action.

Effect of Banaba (Lagerstroemia speciosa) on Metabolic Syndrome, Insulin Sensitivity, and Insulin Secretion

To evaluate the effect of Banaba (Lagerstroemia speciosa) on metabolic syndrome (MetS), insulin sensitivity, and insulin secretion. A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial was carried out in 24 patients with diagnosis of MetS according to the International Diabetes Federation criteria. Body weight, waist circumference, and blood pressure were evaluated. Fasting plasma glucose (FPG) and insulin concentrations were measured every 30 min during 2 h after a 75-g dextrose load. Lipid profile was determined before and after the pharmacological intervention. Twelve patients received Banaba (500 mg) twice a day, before breakfast and dinner for 12 weeks. The remaining 12 patients received placebo at the same dosage. Body mass index, area under the curve (AUC) of glucose and insulin, insulin sensitivity, total insulin secretion, and the first phase of insulin secretion were calculated. After Banaba administration, there were significant decreases in systolic blood pressure (SBP) (121.5 ± 12.9 vs. 116.3 ± 9.8 mmHg, P = .050), FPG (5.9 ± 0.4 vs. 5.7 ± 0.4 mmol/L, P = .034), triglycerides (TG) (2.3 ± 0.4 vs. 1.7 ± 0.5 mmol/L, P = .021), very low-density lipoprotein (VLDL) (0.5 ± 0.1 vs. 0.3 ± 0.1 mmol/L, P = .021), AUC of insulin (50,675 ± 14,309 vs. 37,983 ± 19,298 mmol/L, P = .017), and insulinogenic index (0.4 ± 0.2 vs. 0.3 ± 0.2, P = .047). Eight patients (67%) of the Banaba group showed remission of MetS. In the placebo group, there was a downward trend toward statistical significance in the Stumvoll index (910.3 ± 514.1 vs. 651.0 ± 405.2, P = .062). Banaba administration leads to remission of MetS and a significant decrease in SBP, FPG, TG, VLDL, AUC of insulin, and total insulin secretion. Clinical Trial Registration number: NCT02767869.

SIRT1 Activation Enhancing 8,3'-Neolignans from the Twigs of Corylopsis coreana Uyeki

Three undescribed 8,3'-neolignans, corynol (1), 3-methoxy-corynol (2) and 3'-deoxy-corynol (3), together with two bergenin derivatives, three flavonoids, two hydrolysable tannins and six simple phenolic compounds, were isolated from the twigs of Corylopsis coreana Uyeki. The structures of the 8,3'-neolignans were elucidated by analyzing their NMR, HRESIMS and ECD spectra. All the isolated compounds were evaluated for their SIRT1 stimulatory activity, and 3'-deoxy-corynol (3) showed SIRT1 stimulation activity. Furthermore, a docking study of 3 was performed with three representative binding pockets of SIRT1.

Acetylcholinesterase and monoamine oxidase-B inhibitory activities by ellagic acid derivatives isolated from Castanopsis cuspidata var. sieboldii

Among 276 herbal extracts, a methanol extract of Castanopsis cuspidata var. sieboldii stems was selected as an experimental source for novel acetylcholinesterase (AChE) inhibitors. Five compounds were isolated from the extract by activity-guided screening, and their inhibitory activities against butyrylcholinesterase (BChE), monoamine oxidases (MAOs), and β-site amyloid precursor protein cleaving enzyme 1 (BACE-1) were also evaluated. Of these compounds, 4'-O-(α-L-rhamnopyranosyl)-3,3',4-tri-O-methylellagic acid (3) and 3,3',4-tri-O-methylellagic acid (4) effectively inhibited AChE with IC₅₀ values of 10.1 and 10.7 µM, respectively. Ellagic acid (5) inhibited AChE (IC₅₀ = 41.7 µM) less than 3 and 4. In addition, 3 effectively inhibited MAO-B (IC₅₀ = 7.27 µM) followed by 5 (IC₅₀ = 9.21 µM). All five compounds weakly inhibited BChE and BACE-1. Compounds 3, 4, and 5 reversibly and competitively inhibited AChE, and were slightly or non-toxic to MDCK cells. The binding energies of 3 and 4 (- 8.5 and - 9.2 kcal/mol, respectively) for AChE were greater than that of 5 (- 8.3 kcal/mol), and 3 and 4 formed a hydrogen bond with Tyr124 in AChE. These results suggest 3 is a dual-targeting inhibitor of AChE and MAO-B, and that these compounds should be viewed as potential therapeutics for the treatment of Alzheimer's disease.

Lagerstroemia speciosa (L.) Pers., ethanolic extract attenuates simultaneously administered isoniazid- and dapsone-induced hepatotoxicity in rats

Herbal tea of Lagerstroemia speciosa Pers., commonly known as banaba, has been traditionally used to treat various ailments including diabetes and obesity due to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory efficacies. Drug-induced liver injury is a common cause of acute liver failure. Isoniazid (INH) is used as the first-line treatment for tuberculosis; clinical and experimental studies have reported an abnormal liver function after INH therapy. Dapsone (DDS) is used for leprosy and other infections. This study investigates the hepatoprotective effect of ethanolic banaba leaves extract (EBLE) against simultaneously administered INH- and DDS-induced hepatotoxicity in rats. DDS (30 mg/kg, i.p.) and INH (50 mg/kg. p.o.) were administered simultaneously for 30 days. In separate groups, rats were posttreated orally with EBLE (500 mg/kg) and silymarin (100 mg/kg) for 30 days after INH + DDS administration. The marker enzymes of hepatotoxicity, oxidative stress markers, inflammatory markers, and histopathology were done. Simultaneous administration of INH- and DDS-induced significant elevation of marker enzymes of hepatotoxicity in the serum. This treatment also increased lipid peroxidation and pro-inflammatory markers (tumor necrosis factor alpha, transforming growth factor beta, and nuclear factor kappa B) expressions and decreased intracellular antioxidants such as superoxide dismutase, catalase, and glutathione in the liver tissue. All these abnormalities were significantly mitigated after EBLE and SIL posttreatments. The results of this study suggest that EBLE and silymarin can be protective against INH + DDS-induced hepatotoxicity. PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS: Herbal tea contain Lagerstroemia speciosa leaves are used in several Southeast Asian countries due to its rich antioxidant and inflammatory properties. This study showed the hepatoprotective efficacy of L. speciosa ethanolic extract against simultaneously administered dapsone- and isoniazid-induced hepatotoxicity in rats. L. speciosa administration was found to decrease dapsone- and isoniazid-induced oxidative stress and hepatic inflammation. L. speciosa herbal tea can reduce drug-induced hepatic complications as it contains phytochemicals such as corosolic acid, gallic acid, ellagic acid and berberine and are implicated for its hepatoprotective effect. Therefore, L. speciosa extract can be used for drug-induced liver injury.

Novel Phytochemical Constituents and their Potential to Manage Diabetes

BACKGROUND

Diabetes is a chronic disease affecting a large population worldwide and stands as one of the major global health challenges to be tackled. According to World Health Organization, about 400 million are having diabetes worldwide and it is the seventh leading cause of deaths in 2016. Plant-based natural products have been in use from ancient times as ethnomedicine for the treatment of several diseases, including diabetes. As a result of that, there are several reports on plant-based natural products displaying antidiabetic activity. In the current review, such antidiabetic potential compounds reported from all plant sources along with their chemical structures are collected, presented and discussed. These kinds of reports are essential to pool the available information to one source, followed by statistical analysis and screening to check the efficacy of all known compounds in a comparative sense. This kind of analysis can give rise to a few potential compounds from hundreds, which can further be screened through in vitro and in vivo studies, and human trails leading to the drug development.

METHODS

Phytochemicals, along with their potential antidiabetic property, were classified according to their basic chemical skeleton. The chemical structures of all the compounds with antidiabetic activities were elucidated in the present review. In addition to this, the distribution and their other remarkable pharmacological activities of each species are also included.

RESULTS

The scrutiny of literature led to the identification of 44 plants with antidiabetic compounds (70) and other pharmacological activities. For the sake of information, the distribution of each species in the world is given. Many plant derivatives may exert anti-diabetic properties by improving or mimicking insulin production or action. Different classes of compounds including sulfur compounds (1-4), alkaloids (5-11), phenolic compounds (12-17), tannins (18-23), phenylpropanoids (24-27), xanthanoids (28-31), amino acid (32), stilbenoid (33), benzofuran (34), coumarin (35), flavonoids (36-49) and terpenoids (50-70) were found to be potential active compounds for antidiabetic activity. Of the 70 listed compounds, majorly 17 compounds are obtained from triterpenoids, 13 from flavonoids and 7 from alkaloids. Among all the 44 plant species, the maximum number (7) of compounds were isolated from Lagerstroemia speciosa followed by Momordica charantia (6) and S. oblonga with 5 compounds.

CONCLUSION

This is the first paper to summarize the established chemical structures of phytochemicals that have been successfully screened for antidiabetic potential and their mechanisms of inhibition. The reported compounds could be considered as potential lead molecules for the treatment of type-2 diabetes. Further, molecular and clinical trials are required to select and establish therapeutic drug candidates.

Bioactive tetrahydrofuran lignans from roots, stems, leaves and twigs of Anogeissus rivularis

Four previously undescribed tetrahydrofuran lignans, named anorisols A-D (1-4) and fourteen known compounds (5-18) were isolated from the roots, stems, leaves and twigs of Anogeissus rivularis. The chemical structures were elucidated on the basis of their spectroscopic data and by comparison with the literature data. The absolute configurations of 1-4 were established by comparison of the experimental ECD spectra with the calculated ECD spectra. Some isolated compounds were evaluated for their cytotoxic activity as well as anti-HIV-1 activity employing reverse transcriptase (RT) and syncytium reduction assays using the ^ΔTat/RevMC99 virus in 1A2 cell line systems. Compound 6 displayed the most potent activity in syncytium inhibition assay with effective concentration at 50% (EC₅₀) value of 13.3 μM (SI >3.0). In the reverse transcriptase assay, compound 1 exhibited moderate activity with IC₅₀ value of 213.9 μM.

Effect of Hydrolyzable Tannins on Glucose-Transporter Expression and Their Bioavailability in Pig Small-Intestinal 3D Cell Model

Intestinal transepithelial transport of glucose is mediated by glucose transporters, and affects postprandial blood-glucose levels. This study investigates the effect of wood extracts rich in hydrolyzable tannins (HTs) that originated from sweet chestnut (Castanea sativa Mill.) and oak (Quercus petraea) on the expression of glucose transporter genes and the uptake of glucose and HT constituents in a 3D porcine-small-intestine epithelial-cell model. The viability of epithelial cells CLAB and PSI exposed to different HTs was determined using alamarBlue^®. qPCR was used to analyze the gene expression of SGLT1, GLUT2, GLUT4, and POLR2A. Glucose uptake was confirmed by assay, and LC–MS/ MS was used for the analysis of HT bioavailability. HTs at 37 µg/mL were found to adversely affect cell viability and downregulate POLR2A expression. HT from wood extract Tanex at concentrations of 4 µg/mL upregulated the expression of GLUT2, as well as glucose uptake at 1 µg/mL. The time-dependent passage of gallic acid through enterocytes was influenced by all wood extracts compared to gallic acid itself as a control. These results suggest that HTs could modulate glucose uptake and gallic acid passage in the 3D cell model.

Molecular mechanism of down-regulating adipogenic transcription factors in 3T3-L1 adipocyte cells by bioactive anti-adipogenic compounds

Obesity is growing at an alarming rate, which is characterized by increased adipose tissue. It increases the probability of many health complications, such as diabetes, arthritis, cardiac disease, and cancer. In modern society, with a growing population of obese patients, several individuals have increased insulin resistance. Herbal medicines are known as the oldest method of health care treatment for obesity-related secondary health issues. Several traditional medicinal plants and their effective phytoconstituents have shown anti-diabetic and anti-adipogenic activity. Adipose tissue is a major site for lipid accumulation as well as the whole-body insulin sensitivity region. 3T3-L1 cell line model can achieve adipogenesis. Adipocyte characteristics features such as expression of adipocyte markers and aggregation of lipids are chemically induced in the 3T3-L1 fibroblast cell line. Differentiation of 3T3-L1 is an efficient and convenient way to obtain adipocyte like cells in experimental studies. Peroxisome proliferation activated receptor γ (PPARγ) and Cytosine-Cytosine-Adenosine-Adenosine-Thymidine/Enhancer-binding protein α (CCAAT/Enhancer-binding protein α or C/EBPα) are considered to be regulating adipogenesis at the early stage, while adiponectin and fatty acid synthase (FAS) is responsible for the mature adipocyte formation. Excess accumulation of these adipose tissues and lipids leads to obesity. Thus, investigating adipose tissue development and the underlying molecular mechanism is important in the therapeutical approach. This review describes the cellular mechanism of 3T3-L1 fibroblast cells on potential anti-adipogenic herbal bioactive compounds.

Medicinal plants utilized in Thai Traditional Medicine for diabetes treatment: Ethnobotanical surveys, scientific evidence and phytochemicals

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Diabetes mellitus remains the most lethal metabolic disease of contemporaneous times and despite the therapeutic arsenal currently available, research on new antidiabetic agents remains a priority. In recent years, the revitalization of Thai Traditional Medicine (TTM) became a clear priority for the Thai government, and many efforts have been undertaken to accelerate research on herbal medicines and their use in medical services in various hospitals. Additionally, and particularly in rural areas, treatment of diabetes and associated symptomatology frequently relies on herbal preparations recommended by practitioners of TTM. In the current work, medicinal plants used in Thailand for treating diabetes, as well as their hypoglycaemic pharmacological evidences and potential therapeutic use for diabetes-related complications were reviewed.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Ethnopharmacological information on the plant materials used in TTM for diabetes treatment was collected through literature search in a range of scientific databases using the search terms: diabetes, folk medicine, Thailand medicinal plants, traditional medicine. Information regarding scientific evidence on the antidiabetic effects of surveyed species was obtained considering not only the most common taxonomic designation, but also taxonomic synonyms, and including the keywords 'diabetes' and 'hypoglycaemic effect'.

RESULTS

A total of 183 species known to be used for diabetes management in TTM were reviewed, with 30% of them still lacking experimental evidences to support claims regarding the mechanisms and phytochemicals underlying their antidiabetic properties. Moreover, a total of 46 bioactives displaying effective antidiabetic effects have been isolated from 24 species, their underlying mechanism(s) of action being fully or partially disclosed.

CONCLUSIONS

We deliver the most extensive survey dealing with the ethnomedicinal knowledge of Thai medicinal plants utilized on diabetes management. We are certain that the current review will spark further research on Thai plants for the development of new standardized phytomedicines through drug discovery programmes.

Cuphea calophylla var. mesostemon (Koehne) S.A. Graham: A Whole-Ethnopharmacological Investigation

Several species of Cuphea are used medicinally and are reported to have cardioprotective, diuretic, and antihypertensive properties. In Brazil, Cuphea species are collectively called "sete-sangrias" due to their similar appearances and are also used interchangeably for the same therapeutic purposes. So the aim of the study was to characterize morphoanatomy of leaves and stems, evaluate the safety, and investigate the diuretic, hypotensive, vasodilatory, and antioxidant properties of ethanol-soluble fraction of Cuphea calophylla var. mesostemon (Koehne) S.A. Graham. Initially, the morphoanatomical characterization of the leaves and stems of C. calophylla var. mesostemon was performed. For the pharmacological evaluation, the ethanol-soluble fraction from Cuphea calophylla (ESCC) was obtained and chemically characterized by high-performance liquid chromatography coupled with a diode array detector and tandem mass spectrometry techniques. Then, acute toxicity, diuretic, hypotensive, antioxidant, and vasodilatory effects were evaluated in Wistar rats. The main chemical compounds identified from ESCC were gallic acid derivatives, ellagitannins, and flavonoids. ESCC showed no acute toxic effect. ESCC showed no acute toxic effect and the estimated median lethal dose (LD₅₀) was above 2000 mg/kg. ESCC treatment (30, 100, and 300 mg/kg) did not present any significant acute diuretic or hypotensive effects. However, an important reduction in the elimination of electrolytes was observed after the acute administration, and a significant increase in renal sodium elimination was observed after 7 days of treatment. In the cardiac tissue, the groups treated with ESCC presented significant increase in superoxide dismutase activity.

The insulin-sensitising properties of the ellagitannin geraniin and its metabolites from Nephelium lappaceum rind in 3T3-L1 cells

In this study, the insulin-like and insulin sensitising effects of the ellagitannins geraniin, corilagin, ellagic acid, gallic acid and Nephelium lappaceum rind extract in 3T3-L1 adipocytes was investigated. It was observed that non-toxic concentrations of geraniin and its metabolites (0.2-20 μM) and N. lappaceum extract (0.2-20 μg/mL) exhibited insulin-like properties in the absence of insulin and insulin-sensitising properties in the presence of insulin particularly with regards to glucose uptake in 3T3-L1 adipocytes. The compounds were further able to promote adipocyte differentiation and may be involved in the inhibition of lipolysis in 3T3-L1 adipocytes in the presence of insulin. However further study into the molecular mechanisms of action of these compounds need to be carried out to better understand the potential of these compounds/extracts to act as therapeutic agents for hyperglycaemia associated with diabetes mellitus and obesity.

The anti-diabetic effect of eightLagerstroemia speciosaleaf extracts based on the contents of ellagitannins and ellagic acid derivatives

Anti-diabetic effects of eight extracts from leaves ofL. speciosausing different manufacturing processes based on the contents of active ellagitannins and inhibitory ellagic acid derivatives.

Lagerstroemia speciosa (L.) Pers Leaf Extract Attenuates Lung Tumorigenesis via Alleviating Oxidative Stress, Inflammation and Apoptosis

One of the major etiological factors that account for lung cancer is tobacco use. Benzo(a)pyrene [B(a)P], one of the main constituents of tobacco smoke, has a key role in lung carcinogenesis. The present study was conducted to investigate the cytotoxicity of an aqueous ethanolic extract of Lagerstroemia speciosa (L.) Pers leaves (LLE) on human lung adenocarcinoma cells (A549), as well as its in vivo antitumor effect on a lung tumorigenesis mice model. Our results revealed that LLE possesses cytotoxic activity against the A549 cell line. Mice orally administered B(a)P (50 mg/kg body weight) showed an increase in relative lung weight with subsequent decrease in final body weight. Serum levels of tumor marker enzymes AHH, ADA and LDH and the inflammatory mediator NF-κB increased, while total antioxidant capacity (TAC) decreased. In addition, we observed the increased activity of metalloproteinases (MMP-2 and MMP-12) and levels of the tumor angiogenesis marker VEFG and the lipid peroxidation marker MDA, as well as decreased levels of the non-enzymatic antioxidant GSH and enzymatic antioxidants CAT and GSH-Px in lung tissues. Moreover, B(a)P administration up-regulated the expression of the COX-2 gene, pro-inflammatory cytokines TNF-α and IL-6, and an anti-apoptotic gene Bcl-2, and at the same time down-regulated expression of pro-apoptotic genes BAX and caspase-3 and the p53 gene. Pre- and post-treatment with LLE (250 mg/kg body weight) attenuated all these abnormalities. Histopathological observations verified the protective effect of LLE. Overall, the present data positively confirm the potent antitumor effect of L. speciosa leaves against lung tumorigenesis.

Fucoidan from Undaria pinnatifida has anti-diabetic effects by stimulation of glucose uptake and reduction of basal lipolysis in 3T3-L1 adipocytes

Fucoidan, a sulfated polysaccharide derived from brown seaweeds, has been shown to reduce blood glucose levels and improve insulin sensitivity in mice. We investigated the effects of fucoidan on lipid accumulation, lipolysis, and glucose uptake in 3T3-L1 cells to test the hypothesis that fucoidan exerts an anti-diabetic function by acting directly on adipocytes. The 3T3-L1 cells were treated with 10, 50, 100, and 200 μg/mL of fucoidan from Undaria pinnatifida. Oil Red O staining and AdipoRed assay were used to determine lipid accumulation during adipocyte differentiation. Fucoidan was shown to reduce lipid accumulation and glycerol-3-phosphate dehydrogenase (GPDH) activity in a dose-dependent manner (P < .01). The expression of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ (PPARγ), a major transcription factor associated with adipocyte differentiation, was also suppressed upon treatment with fucoidan. Treatment with fucoidan stimulated glucose uptake in normal adipocytes and restored insulin-stimulated glucose uptake in obesity-induced insulin resistant adipocytes, which were made by incubating hypertrophied 3T3-L1 cells with the conditioned media of RAW 264.7 macrophages (RAW-CM) (P < .01). In the presence of RAW-CM, fucoidan enhanced epinephrine-stimulated lipolysis but reduced basal lipolysis, as determined by non-esterified fatty acid into the culture medium (P < .001). These results suggest that fucoidan may have anti-diabetic effects by improving insulin-stimulated glucose uptake and inhibiting basal lipolysis in adipocytes without inducing adipogenesis.

Investigation of biological activities of the flowers of Lagerstroemia speciosa, the Jarul flower of Bangladesh

BACKGROUND

Lagerstroemia speciosa (L.) Pers. (Family: Lythraceae) is used in traditional medicine in the treatment of diarrhea, diabetes and other diseases. The study was performed to conduct antioxidant, cytotoxic, thrombolytic, membrane stabilizing, antimicrobial, peripheral and central analgesic and hypoglycemic activity assays and phenobarbitone sodium-induced sleeping time test using crude methanol extract of flowers of L. speciosa and its different partitionates.

METHOD

The antioxidant potential was evaluated by determining the ability of the samples to scavenge 1, 1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) free radical. The cytotoxic potential was examined following the procedures of brine shrimp lethality bioassay. Thrombolytic potential was assayed using streptokinase as standard. The samples were subjected to membrane stabilizing activity assay under heat induced condition. Antimicrobial potential was observed by disc diffusion method. The ability of the extract to inhibit writhing induced by acetic acid was determined in peripheral analgesic activity assay. The extract was also tested for central analgesic and hypoglycemic activities by tail flicking and tail tipping methods in Swiss albino mice model, respectively. CNS depressant activity was evaluated by an assay in which sleep was induced in mice using phenobarbitone sodium.

RESULTS

The chloroform soluble fraction of L. speciosa extract demonstrated the highest antioxidant activity (IC50 = 4.20 ± 0.41 μg/ml) while the most prominent cytotoxic potency was showed by hexane soluble fraction (LC50 = 2.00 ± 0.31 μg/ml). Among the test samples, the carbon tetrachloride soluble fraction induced clot lysis (64.80 ± 0.27%) and prevented heat induced haemolysis (41.90 ± 0.10%) to the maximum extent. The largest zone of inhibition (19.0 mm) against Staphylococcus aureus, was also observed for the same fraction. In peripheral analgesic activity assay, 16.68% inhibition of writhing was documented for the L. speciosa extract (400 mg/kg body weight dose). The extract (400 mg/kg dose) also reduced blood sugar level by 56.12% after three hours of administration of glucose solution. In CNS depressant activity assay, mice of the sample group slept for shorter period of time compared to control group.

CONCLUSIONS

From our investigation, it can be suggested that, the extract should be further studied for possible phytochemicals responsible for the observed biological activities.

Antidiabetic phytoconstituents and their mode of action on metabolic pathways

Diabetes Mellitus, characterized by persistent hyperglycaemia, is a heterogeneous group of disorders of multiple aetiologies. It affects the human body at multiple organ levels thus making it difficult to follow a particular line of the treatment protocol and requires a multimodal approach. The increasing medical burden on patients with diabetes-related complications results in an enormous economic burden, which could severely impair global economic growth in the near future. This shows that today's healthcare system has conventionally been poorly equipped towards confronting the mounting impact of diabetes on a global scale and demands an urgent need for newer and better options. The overall challenge of this field of diabetes treatment is to identify the individualized factors that can lead to improved glycaemic control. Plants are traditionally used worldwide as remedies for diabetes healing. They synthesize a diverse array of biologically active compounds having antidiabetic properties. This review is an endeavour to document the present armamentarium of antidiabetic herbal drug discovery and developments, highlighting mechanism-based antidiabetic properties of over 300 different phytoconstituents of various chemical categories from about 100 different plants modulating different metabolic pathways such as glycolysis, Krebs cycle, gluconeogenesis, glycogen synthesis and degradation, cholesterol synthesis, carbohydrate metabolism as well as peroxisome proliferator activated receptor activation, dipeptidyl peptidase inhibition and free radical scavenging action. The aim is to provide a rich reservoir of pharmacologically established antidiabetic phytoconstituents with specific references to the novel, cost-effective interventions, which might be of relevance to other low-income and middle-income countries of the world.

Self microemulsifying formulation of Lagerstroemia speciosa against chemically induced hepatotoxicity

Self microemulsifying formulation is an approach used for enhancing the bioavailability of poorly soluble molecules due to their lipidic nature and small particle size. The objective of the present study was to evaluate the hepatoprotective activity of poorly soluble hydroxy- and polyhydroxy-organic phytomolecules rich Lagerstroemia speciosa leaves extract in modern formulation i.e. "Self microemulsifying System". Different doses of SME (Self microemulsifying) formulation of L. speciosa leaves extract were evaluated for the hepatoprotective activity against carbon tetrachloride induced liver toxicity in rats. The parameters evaluated were (a) biochemical parameters like serum enzymes: aspartate aminotransferase (AST), serum glutamate pyruvate transaminase (ALT), serum alkaline phosphatase (ALP) and total bilirubin (b) liver antioxidant parameters as estimation of Lipid peroxidation (LPO), catalase (CAT), Superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity and concentration of reduced glutathione (GSH). Oral administration of SME formulation provided the significant protection in marker enzyme of treated group at 100 mg/kg, p.o. as AST (P < 0.001), ALT (P < 0.001), ALP (P < 0.001) and total bilirubin (P < 0.001) comparable to the group treated with silymarin. Treatment with SME formulation at the doses of 100 mg/kg, p.o. significantly prevented the rise in levels of LPO significantly (P < 0.001). The GSH, SOD and CAT contents had significantly (P < 0.001) increased in SME formulation treated groups whereas carbon tetrachloride intoxicated group had shown significant decrease in these parameters compared to control group. Formulation at the dose 100 mg/kg, p.o. has shown maximum protection which was almost comparable to those of the normal control and standard. The histological observations further uphold the results for hepatoprotective activity.

Leaf and Root Extracts from Campomanesia adamantium (Myrtaceae) Promote Apoptotic Death of Leukemic Cells via Activation of Intracellular Calcium and Caspase-3

Phytochemical studies are seeking new alternatives to prevent or treat cancer, including different types of leukemias. Campomanesia adamantium, commonly known as guavira or guabiroba, exhibits pharmacological properties including antioxidant, antimicrobial, and antiproliferative activities. Considering the anticancer potential of this plant species, the aim of this study was to evaluate the antileukemic activity and the chemical composition of aqueous extracts from the leaves (AECL) and roots (AECR) of C. adamantium and their possible mechanisms of action. The extracts were analyzed by LC-DAD-MS, and their constituents were identified based on the UV, MS, and MS/MS data. The AECL and AECR showed different chemical compositions, which were identified as main compounds glycosylated flavonols from AECL and ellagic acid and their derivatives from AECR. The cytotoxicity promoted by these extracts were evaluated using human peripheral blood mononuclear cells and Jurkat leukemic cell line. The cell death profile was evaluated using annexin-V-FITC and propidium iodide labeling. Changes in the mitochondrial membrane potential, the activity of caspases, and intracellular calcium levels were assessed. The cell cycle profile was evaluated using propidium iodide. Both extracts caused concentration-dependent cytotoxicity only in Jurkat cells via late apoptosis. This activity was associated with loss of the mitochondrial membrane potential, activation of caspases-9 and -3, changes in intracellular calcium levels, and cell cycle arrest in S-phase. Therefore, the antileukemic activity of the AECL and AECR is mediated by mitochondrial dysfunction and intracellular messengers, which activate the intrinsic apoptotic pathway. Hence, aqueous extracts of the leaves and roots of C. adamantium show therapeutic potential for use in the prevention and treatment of diseases associated the proliferation of tumor cell.

Hypoglycaemic activity of Mathurameha, a Thai traditional herbal formula aqueous extract, and its effect on biochemical profiles of streptozotocin-nicotinamide-induced diabetic rats

BACKGROUND

The Thai traditional herbal formula-Mathurameha, consisting of 26 medicinal plants, has been used as an alternative and complementary medicine for diabetes treatment in Wangnamyen Hospital, Thailand. To provide scientific evidences on the efficacy and safety of this herbal formula, in vivo hypoglycaemic activity, effect on serum biochemical profiles and acute toxicity were investigated.

METHODS

Experimental type 2 diabetes was induced in male Sprague-Dawley rats by intraperitoneal injection of nicotinamide 15 min prior to intravenous injection of streptozotocin. The most effective extract from the oral glucose tolerant test (OGTT) was administered daily via the oral route to diabetic rats for 2 weeks. Two-hour postprandial plasma glucose (2h-PPG) levels were measured on days 0, 7, and 14. Biochemical data were measured at the end of daily oral administration experiment.

RESULTS

Aqueous extract of the herbal formula was the most potent extract for improving glucose tolerance of streptozotocin-nicotinamide-induced diabetic rats after single oral administration. After 2 weeks of daily oral administration, the aqueous extract showed a dose-dependent glucose lowering effect. At doses of 12.5, 25, and 50 mg/kg, the 2h-PPG level of diabetic rats decreased by 3.32%, 15.78%, and 17.94%, respectively. Most of the biochemical profiles of diabetic rats were improved, including the total cholesterol (TC), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), total protein, albumin, globulin, creatinine, and uric acid levels. The significantly increased triglyceride (TG) level observed in treated diabetic rats indicated a lack of a beneficial effect of the extract on lipid homeostasis. Nevertheless, there were no signs or symptoms of acute toxicity observed after oral administration of aqueous extract (5 g/kg) to both male and female rats.

CONCLUSIONS

The results revealed that the herbal formula aqueous extract has hypoglycaemic activity, beneficial effects on biochemical profiles and a lack of acute toxicity. This study confirms the efficacy and safety of the Mathurameha herbal formula used for treating type 2 diabetes mellitus.

Isolation of quercetin from the methanolic extract of Lagerstroemia speciosa by HPLC technique, its cytotoxicity against MCF-7 cells and photocatalytic activity

The flavonoids present in the leaves of Lagerstroemia speciosa were extracted, characterized by spectral methods and studied for its cytotoxicity activity against MCF-cell lines and photocatalytic activity against azo dye. Direct and sequential soxhlet extraction was performed and its concentrated crude extract was subjected to high performance liquid chromatography. The yield obtained by the isolated compound (MEI-quercetin) from leaves of L. speciosa was found to be 1.8g from the methanolic extract. The phytochemical analysis and the Rf value of the isolated flavonoid was found to be 3.59. The isolated compound was characterized by Infrared Spectroscopy, NMR and Mass. Based on the characterization, the structure was elucidated as quercetin - a flavonoid. The isolated compound showed the significant in vitro cytotoxicity activity against MCF-7 cell lines at 500μg/ml when compared to the crude extract. Among the various concentrations (25, 50, 100, 250, and 500μg/ml), at higher concentration the cell viability was pronounced and also compared with that of the control. It was first time to report that the isolated flavonoid showed photocatalytic against azo dye-methyl orange. The dye degradation was monitored by UV-Vis spectrophotometry. The isolated compound showed dye degradation of 91.66% with the crude extract 82.47% at 160min. Hence in the present findings, the photocatalytic degradation of MO dye under UV irradiation was investigated over isolated compound of L. speciosa. Hence we expect that this can be used to treat the waste water in near future based on the photocatalytic technique.

Profile of bioactive compounds in Nymphaea alba L. leaves growing in Egypt: hepatoprotective, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity

Background

Nymphaea alba L. represents an interesting field of study. Flowers have antioxidant and hepatoprotective effects, rhizomes constituents showed cytotoxic activity against liver cell carcinoma, while several Nymphaea species have been reported for their hepatoprotective effects. Leaves of N. alba have not been studied before. Therefore, in this study, in-depth characterization of the leaf phytoconstituents as well as its antioxidant and hepatoprotective activities have been performed where N. alba leaf extract was evaluated as a possible therapeutic alternative in hepatic disorders.

Methods

The aqueous ethanolic extract (AEE, 70%) was investigated for its polyphenolic content identified by high-resolution electrospray ionisation mass spectrometry (HRESI-MS/MS), while the petroleum ether fraction was saponified, and the lipid profile was analysed using gas liquid chromatography (GLC) analysis and compared with reference standards. The hepatoprotective activity of two doses of the extract (100 and 200 mg/kg; P.O.) for 5 days was evaluated against CCl₄-induced hepatotoxicity in male Wistar albino rats, in comparison with silymarin. Liver function tests; aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), gamma glutamyl transpeptidase (GGT) and total bilirubin were performed. Oxidative stress parameters; malondialdehyde (MDA), reduced glutathione (GSH), catalase (CAT), superoxide dismutase (SOD), total antioxidant capacity (TAC) as well as inflammatory mediator; tumour necrosis factor (TNF)-α were detected in the liver homogenate. Histopathological examination of the liver and immunohistochemical staining of caspase-3 were performed

Results

Fifty-three compounds were tentatively identified for the first time in N.alba leaf extract, where ellagitannins represent the main identified constituents. Nine hydrocarbons, two sterols and eleven fatty acids were identified in the petroleum ether extract where, palmitic acid and linolenic acids represented the major saturated and unsaturated fatty acid respectively. N.alba AEE significantly improved the liver function, oxidative stress parameters as well as TNF-α in addition to the amelioration of histopathological features of the liver and a profound decrease in caspase-3 expression.

Conclusion

These results shed light on the hepatoprotective effect of N. alba that is comparable with that of silymarin. The antioxidant activities of N. alba extract in addition to the inhibition of crucial inflammatory mediator, as TNF-α, might be the possible hepatoprotective mechanisms.

Agrimoniin, an Active Ellagitannin from Comarum palustre Herb with Anti-α-Glucosidase and Antidiabetic Potential in Streptozotocin-Induced Diabetic Rats

Naturally existing α-glucosidase inhibitors from traditional herbal medicines have attracted considerable interest to treat type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM). The present study aimed to evaluate the anti-α-glucosidase activity of extracts from marsh cinquefoil (Comarum palustre L.), their hypoglycaemic action and detection of the responsible compounds. A 60% ethanol extract from C. palustre herb revealed the highest inhibitory activity against α-glucosidase (IC50 52.0 μg/mL). The HPLC analysis of the major compounds resulted in detection of 15 compounds, including ellagitannins, flavonoids, catechin and other compounds. Using HPLC activity-based profiling a good inhibitory activity of agrimoniin-containing eluates against α-glucosidase was demonstrated. The removal of ellagitannins from the C. palustre extract significantly decreased α-glucosidase inhibition (IC50 204.7 μg/mL) due to the high enzyme-inhibiting activity of the dominant agrimoniin (IC50 21.8 μg/mL). The hypoglycaemic effect of C. palustre extracts before and after ellagitannin removal, agrimoniin and insulin was evaluated on streptozotocin-induced experimental model. Diabetic rats treated with agrimoniin and C. palustre extract before ellagitannin removal showed significant increases in the levels of plasma glucose and glycosylated hemoglobin and significant decreases in the levels of plasma insulin and hemoglobin. The data obtained confirm the leading role of agrimoniin in the antidiabetic activity of the herb C. palustre and allows us to suggest the use of this plant as a possible dietary adjunct in the treatment of DM and a source of new oral hypoglycaemic agents.

Anticancer agents interacting with membrane glucose transporters

The altered metabolism observed in cancer cells generally consists in increased glucose uptake and glycolytic activity. This is associated with an overexpression of glucose transporter proteins (GLUTs), which facilitate glucose uptake across the plasma membrane and play a crucial role in the survival of cancer cells. Therefore GLUTs are considered as suitable targets for the treatment of cancer. Herein we review some of the most relevant GLUT inhibitors that have been recently developed as prospective anticancer agents.

A review on possible therapeutic targets to contain obesity: The role of phytochemicals

The prevalence and severity of obesity has increased markedly in recent decades making it a global public health concern. Since obesity is a potential risk factor in the development of hypertension, type-2 diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, infertility, etc., it is no more viewed as a cosmetic issue. Currently, only a few FDA-approved anti-obesity drugs like Orlistat, Lorcaserin and Phentermine-topiramate are available in the market, but they have considerable side effects. On the other hand, bariatric surgery as an alternative is associated with high risk and expensive. In view of these there is a growing trend towards natural product-based drug intervention as one of the crucial strategies for management of obesity and related ailments. In Asian traditional medicine and Ayurvedic literature a good number of plant species have been used and quoted for possible lipid-lowering and anti-obesity effects; however, many of them have not been evaluated rigorously for a definite recommendation and also lack adequate scientific validation. This review explores and updates on various plant species, their used parts, bioactive components and focuses multiple targets/pathways to contain obesity which may pave the way to develop novel and effective drugs. We also summarised different drugs in use to treat obesity and their current status. Nature is future promise of our wellbeing.

Corosolic acid ameliorates acute inflammation through inhibition of IRAK-1 phosphorylation in macrophages

Corosolic acid (CA), a triterpenoid compound isolated from Lagerstroemia speciosa L. (Banaba) leaves, exerts anti-inflammatory effects by regulating phosphorylation of interleukin receptor-associated kinase (IRAK)-2 via the NF-κB cascade. However, the protective effect of CA against endotoxic shock has not been reported. LPS (200 ng/mL, 30 min) induced phosphorylation of IRAK-1 and treatment with CA (10 μM) significantly attenuated this effect. In addition, CA also reduced protein levels of NLRP3 and ASC which are the main components of the inflammasome in BMDMs. LPS-induced inflammasome assembly through activation of IRAK-1 was down-regulated by CA challenge. Treatment with Bay11-7082, an inhibitor of IκB-α, had no effect on CA-mediated inhibition of IRAK-1 activation, indicating that CA-mediated attenuation of IRAK-1 phosphorylation was independent of NF-κB signaling. These results demonstrate that CA ameliorates acute inflammation in mouse BMDMs and CA may be useful as a pharmacological agent to prevent acute inflammation. [BMB Reports 2016; 49(5): 276-281].

Polyphenol-Rich Extract of Syzygium cumini Leaf Dually Improves Peripheral Insulin Sensitivity and Pancreatic Islet Function in Monosodium L-Glutamate-Induced Obese Rats

Syzygium cumini (L.) Skeels (Myrtaceae) has been traditionally used to treat a number of illnesses. Ethnopharmacological studies have particularly addressed antidiabetic and metabolic-related effects of extracts prepared from its different parts, especially seed, and pulp-fruit, however. there is a lack of studies on phytochemical profile and biological properties of its leaf. As there is considerable interest in bioactive compounds to treat metabolic syndrome and its clustered risk factors, we sought to characterize the metabolic effects of hydroethanolic extract of S. cumini leaf (HESc) on lean and monosodium L-glutamate (MSG)-induced obese rats. HPLC-MS/MS characterization of the HESc polyphenolic profile, at 254 nm, identified 15 compounds pertaining to hydrolysable tannin and flavanol subclasses. At 60 days of age, both groups were randomly assigned to receive HESc (500 mg/kg) or vehicle for 30 days. At the end of treatment, obese+HESc exhibited significantly lower body weight gain, body mass index, and white adipose tissue mass, compared to obese rats receiving vehicle. Obese rats treated with HESc showed a twofold increase in lipolytic activity in the periepididymal fat pad, as well as, brought triglyceride levels in serum, liver and skeletal muscle back to levels close those found in lean animals. Furthermore, HESc also improved hyperinsulinemia and insulin resistance in obese+HESc rats, which resulted in partial reversal of glucose intolerance, as compared to obese rats. HESc had no effect in lean rats. Assessment of ex vivo glucose-stimulated insulin secretion showed HESc potentiated pancreatic function in islets isolated from both lean and obese rats treated with HESc. In addition, HESc (10–1000 μg/mL) increased glucose stimulated insulin secretion from both isolated rat islets and INS-1E β-cells. These data demonstrate that S. cumini leaf improved peripheral insulin sensitivity via stimulating/modulating β-cell insulin release, which was associated with improvements in metabolic outcomes in MSG-induced obese rats.