Flavonoids from the buds of Rosa damascena inhibit the activity of 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl-coenzyme a reductase and angiotensin I-converting enzyme

Dietary (poly)phenols as modulators of the biophysical properties in endothelial cell membranes: its impact on nitric oxide bioavailability in hypertension

Hypertension is a major contributor to premature death, owing to the associated increased risk of damage to the heart, brain and kidneys. Although hypertension is manageable by medication and lifestyle changes, the risk increases with age. In an increasingly aged society, the incidence of hypertension is escalating, and is expected to increase the prevalence of (cerebro)vascular events and their associated mortality. Adherence to plant-based diets improves blood pressure and vascular markers in individuals with hypertension. Food flavonoids have an inhibitory effect towards angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE1) and although this effect is greatly diminished upon metabolization, their microbial metabolites have been found to improve endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) activity. Considering the transmembrane location of ACE1 and eNOS, the ability of (poly)phenols to interact with membrane lipids modulate the cell membrane's biophysical properties and impact on nitric oxide (· NO) synthesis and bioavailability, remain poorly studied. Herein, we provide an overview of the current knowledge on the lipid remodeling of endothelial membranes with age, its impact on the cell membrane's biophysical properties and · NO permeability across the endothelial barrier. We also discuss the potential of (poly)phenols and other plant-based compounds as key players in hypertension management, and address the caveats and challenges in adopted methodologies.

Detection of Various Traditional Chinese Medicinal Metabolites as Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme Inhibitors: Molecular Docking, Activity Testing, and Surface Plasmon Resonance Approaches

Angiotensin-converting enzyme 1 (ACE1) is a peptide involved in fluid and blood pressure management. It regulates blood pressure by converting angiotensin I to angiotensin II, which has vasoconstrictive effects. Previous studies have shown that certain compounds of natural origin can inhibit the activity of angiotensin-converting enzymes and exert blood pressure-regulating effects. Surface Plasmon Resonance (SPR) biosensor technology is the industry standard method for observing biomolecule interactions. In our study, we used molecular simulation methods to investigate the docking energies of various herbal metabolites with ACE1 proteins, tested the real-time binding affinities between various herbal metabolites and sACE1 by SPR, and analyzed the relationship between real-time binding affinity and docking energy. In addition, to further explore the connection between inhibitor activity and real-time binding affinity, several herbal metabolites' in vitro inhibitory activities were tested using an ACE1 activity test kit. The molecular docking simulation technique's results and the real-time affinity tested by the SPR technique were found to be negatively correlated, and the virtual docking technique still has some drawbacks as a tool for forecasting proteins' affinities to the metabolites of Chinese herbal metabolites. There may be a positive correlation between the enzyme inhibitory activity and the real-time affinity detected by the SPR technique, and the results from the SPR technique may provide convincing evidence to prove the interaction between herbal metabolites and ACE1 target proteins.

Oenococcus oeni allows the increase of antihypertensive and antioxidant activities in apple cider

This study aimed to investigate the impact of the malolactic fermentation (MLF) carried out by Oenococcus oeni on antihypertensive and antioxidant activities in cider. The MLF was induced using three strains of O. oeni. The modification in phenolic compounds (PCs) and nitrogen organic compounds, antioxidant, and antihypertensive activities were determined after MLF. Among the 17 PCs analyzed caffeic acid was the most abundant compound and phloretin, (-)-epicatechin, and myricetin were detected only in malolactic ciders, however, (-)-epigallocatechin was not detected after MLF. The evaluation of nitrogen organic compounds revealed a drop in total protein concentration (from 17.58 to 14.00 mg N/L) concomitantly with a significant release of peptide nitrogen (from 0.31 to a maximum value of 0.80 mg N/L) after MLF. In addition, an extracellular proteolytic activity was evidenced in all MLF supernatants. The FRAP activity increased reaching a maximum of 120.9 μmol FeSO₄/mL and the ABTS radical-scavenging activity increased until 6.8 mmol ascorbic acid/L. Moreover, the angiotensin I-converting enzyme inhibitory activity reached a maximum value of 39.8%. The MLF conducted by O. oeni in ciders enables the increase of interesting biological activities and this finding could constitute a valuable tool to add value to final product.

Type 2 Diabetes mellitus alters the cargo of (poly)phenol metabolome and the oxidative status in circulating lipoproteins

The incidence of diabetes on the worldwide population has tripled in the past 5 decades. While drug-based therapies are valuable strategies to treat and ease the socio-economic burden of diabetes, nutritional strategies offer valuable alternatives to prevent and manage diabetes onset and contribute to the sustainability of health budgets. Whilst, intervention studies have shown that (poly)phenol-rich diets improve fasting glucose levels and other blood parameters, very little is known about the distribution of ingested polyphenols in circulation and the impact of diabetes on its cargo. In this study we investigate the impact of type 2 diabetes on the cargo of plasma (poly)phenols. Our results show that phenolic compounds are heterogeneously distributed in circulation though mainly transported by lipoprotein populations. We also found that diabetes has a marked effect on the phenolic content transported by VLDL resulting in the decrease in the content of flavonoids and consequently a decrease in the antioxidant capacity. In addition to the reduced bioavailability of (poly)phenol metabolites and increase of oxidative status in LDL and HDL populations in diabetes, cell-based assays show that sub-micromolar amounts of microbial (poly)phenol metabolites are able to counteract the pro-inflammatory status in glucose-challenged endothelial cells. Our findings highlight the relevance of triglyceride-rich lipoproteins in the transport and delivery of bioactive plant-based compounds to the endothelium in T2DM supporting the adoption of nutritional guidelines as an alternative strategy to drug-based therapeutic approaches.

Aqueous extracts of tree peony petals: renin and angiotensin I-converting enzyme inhibitory activities in different colours and flowering stages

Tree peony (Paeonia suffruticosa Andr.) is an ornamental and medicinal plant from China. Previous studies have detected novel blood pressure-regulating substances in this species, which potentiate its value of utilization. To explore these substances, the aqueous extracts of 7 different colours of tree peony petals were assessed for inhibitory activity on renin and angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE). The results showed that the activity of dark-coloured samples was significantly stronger than that of light-coloured ones. Furthermore, the inhibitory activity of the red tree peony petals ‘Hong TaiYang’ on renin and ACE indicated a downward trend from bud compaction to the full opening stage. The antioxidant activities of the aqueous extracts, on one side, and the correlations between phenolics and flavonoids functionalities and total contents, on the other, were also evaluated. In this regard, the extracts of different samples had ABTS free radical scavenging capacities of 17.28–210.41 mg TE per g DW, DPPH radical scavenging capacities of 35.45–150.78 mg TE per g DW, iron ion reduction capacities of 16.66–150.77 mg TE per g DW, and total phenolic content of 23.94–150.78 mg GAE per g DW. Correlation analysis revealed that the renin and ACE inhibitory activities, the DPPH and ABTS free radical scavenging capacities, and the iron reduction ability of different sample extracts were positively correlated with total phenolic contents (p < 0.01). Finally, the aqueous phenolic compounds in the sample extracts tended to show strong renin and ACE inhibitory activities and therefore exhibit a potential auxiliary blood pressure control prospect.

Tree peony petals with different colours and flowering stages were assessed for renin/ACE inhibition. Dark-coloured samples showed higher inhibition than light-coloured ones, and a downward inhibitory trend was found from bud to full opening stage.

Focus on the high therapeutic potentials of quercetin and its derivatives

BACKGROUND

Polyphenols and particularly flavonoids are of constant interest to the scientific community. Flavonoids are investigated for their biological and pharmacological purposes, notably as antioxidant, anticancer, antiviral and for their anti-inflammatory activities. Certainly, one of the best-known flavonols recognized for its therapeutic and preventive properties, is quercetin. Despite its biological interest, quercetin suffer from some drawbacks, mainly related to its bioavailability. Hence, its synthetic or biosynthetic derivatives have been the subject of intensive research. The health-promoting biological activities of flavonols and derivatives mainly arise from their capacity to disrupt the host-pathogen interactions and/or to regulate host cellular functions including oxidative processes and immunological responses. In the age of coronavirus pandemic, the anti-inflammatory and antiviral potential of flavonols should be put forward to explore these substances for decreasing the viral load and inflammatory storm caused by the infection.

PURPOSE OF STUDY

The present review will decipher and discuss the antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and antiviral capacities of major flavonol with a focus on the molecular basis and structure-activity relationships.

STUDY DESIGN

Current study used a combination of quercetin derivatives, pathway, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antiviral activities as keywords to retrieve the literature. This study critically reviewed the current literature and presented the ability of natural analogs of quercetin having superior antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and antiviral effects than the original molecule.

RESULTS

This review allowed the identification of relevant key structure-activity relationship elements and highlight approaches on the mechanisms governing the antioxidant, antiviral and anti-inflammatory activities.

CONCLUSION

Through a critical analysis of the literature, flavonols and more precisely quercetin derivatives reviewed and found to act simultaneously on inflammation, virus and oxidative stress, three key factors that may lead to life threatening diseases.

Dual inhibition of the renin and angiotensin converting enzyme activities of aqueous extracts of 22 edible flower petals

In order to explore novel blood pressure-regulating substances and fulfill the high-value utilization of various edible flowers, the inhibitory activities of aqueous solutions of 22 edible flower petals extracts on renin and angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) were investigated. The results showed that almost all the aqueous sample extracts demonstrated an inhibition of renin and/or ACE. The Rosa rugosa Thunb. (IC₅₀ = 25.13 and 60.00 μg mL⁻¹) and Paeonia suffruticosa Andr. (IC₅₀ = 50.54 and 292.47 μg mL⁻¹) extracts showed prominent dual inhibitory activity against renin and ACE. The antioxidant activities and content of total phenols and flavonoids of the aqueous sample extracts were tested, because the oxidative damage of blood vessels is closely related to the occurrence and development of hypertension. The correlation between the contents of total phenolic substances and flavonoids, and the functional activities was analyzed. Renin and ACE inhibitory activities, DPPH and ABTS free radical scavenging capacity, and iron reduction ability of different sample extracts were significantly positively correlated with the total phenolic content (p <0.01), whereby the correlation coefficients were 0.87, 0.83, 0.93, 0.95, and 0.93 respectively. It was indicated that the aqueous phenolic compounds in Rosa rugosa Thunb and Paeonia suffruticosa Andr extracts tended to show stronger renin and ACE inhibitory activities, and exhibited a potential prospect for auxiliary blood pressure control.

In order to explore novel antihypertensive substances and fulfill high-value utilization of edible flowers, the inhibitory activities of aqueous extracts of 22 edible flower petals on renin and angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) were investigated.

Nephrotonic and Nephroprotective medicinal herbs in traditional Persian Medicine: Review and assessment of scientific evidence

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The tendency to use herbal and complementary therapies has been increased dramatically in last decades. The aim of this study is reviewing nephrotonic and nephroprotective medicinal herbs in traditional Persian Medicine (TPM) historical books, and assessment of relevant scientific evidence and possible mechanisms of action. In this study, seven major references among pharmaceutical books of PM from the 11th to 19th centuries were selected and were searched with key words equivalent to “nephroprotection”. To find new studies, the scientific name of medicinal herbs which were repeated twice or more were searched using data bases including PubMed, and Google scholar with keywords of nephroprotective, renal disorder, renal failure and kidney. Also, probable effective mechanisms were explored with key words including oxidative stress, antioxidant, inflammation, anti-inflammatory and angiotensin-converting-enzyme inhibitor. 210 herbal remedies were found with kidney strengthening, nephroprotective, and atrophy prevention effects in reviewed books. The most repeated herbs were 41 Results of scientific evidence showed that the possible functional mechanisms of these plants include anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidative, blood pressure/glucose-lowering effect as well as improvement of glomerular filtration, prevention of tissue damage, and enhancing the reconstructive power of cells. The list of medicinal herbs in this study can be used as a base of future studies on production of new medicines for prevention or treatment of renal failure and for the enhancement of renal performance.

Angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors from plants: A review of their diversity, modes of action, prospects, and concerns in the management of diabetes-centric complications

Angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors are antihypertensive medications often used in the treatment of diabetes-related complications. Synthetic ACE inhibitors are known to cause serious side effects like hypotension, renal insufficiency, and hyperkalaemia. Therefore, there has been an intensifying search for natural ACE inhibitors. Many plants or plant-based extracts are known to possess ACE-inhibitory activity. In this review, articles focusing on the natural ACE inhibitors extracted from plants were retrieved from databases like Google Scholar, PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science. We have found more than 50 plant species with ACE-inhibitory activity. Among them, Angelica keiskei, Momordica charantia, Muntingia calabura, Prunus domestica, and Peperomia pellucida were the most potent, showing comparatively lower half-maximal inhibitory concentration values. Among the bioactive metabolites, peptides (e.g., Tyr-Glu-Pro, Met-Arg-Trp, and Gln-Phe-Tyr-Ala-Val), phenolics (e.g., cyanidin-3-O-sambubioside and delphinidin-3-O-sambubioside), flavonoids ([-]-epicatechin, astilbin, and eupatorin), terpenoids (ursolic acid and oleanolic acid) and alkaloids (berberine and harmaline) isolated from several plant and fungus species were found to possess significant ACE-inhibitory activity. These were also known to possess promising antioxidant, antidiabetic, antihyperlipidemic and anti-inflammatory activities. Considering the minimal side effects and lower toxicity of herbal compounds, development of antihypertensive drugs from these plant extracts or phytocompounds for the treatment of diabetes-associated complications is an important endeavour. This review, therefore, focuses on the ACE inhibitors extracted from different plant sources, their possible mechanisms of action, present status, and any safety concerns.

The Efficacy of Rosa damascena on Liver Enzymes in Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease: A Randomized Double-Blind Clinical Trial

Objective

This study aimed to appraise the potential effects of Rosa damascena preparation on nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD).

Design

In the randomized, double-blind placebo-controlled clinical trials, seventy-four patients with NAFLD were prescribed either 1 g Rosa damascena powder or placebo three times in a day for 12 weeks. All patients were provided the lifestyle modification instructions and recommended following them precisely. ALT, AST, FBS, and lipid profiles were measured at the baseline after 12 weeks of studying. The Mann-Whitney U test was correctly used to compare the changes of variables among the groups.

Results

Seventy-two patients completed the study in two groups. Sixty-seven patients were men, and the mean ± standard deviation of age was 40.11 ± 9.05 years. The Rosa damascena group showed a considerable decrease in the serum ALT (23.83 ± 24.82 vs. 16.19 ± 27.41, p=0.042), waist circumference (99.73 ± 10.01 vs. 101.52 ± 8.84, p=0.003), triglyceride (TG) (186.29 ± 76.75 vs. 184.47 ± 73.05, p=0.001), cholesterol (167.47 ± 34.48 vs. 184.11 ± 33.54, p=0.001), low-density lipoprotein (LDL) (99.17 ± 28.66 vs. 107.52 ± 25.42, p=0.001), and elevation in serum high-density lipoprotein (HDL) (41.85 ± 6.56 vs. 39.20 ± 5.00, p < 0.007) compared to the control group. Improving fatty liver degree due to liver ultrasound was higher in the Rosa damascena group than the control group (p=0.001).

Conclusion

Rosa damascena meaningfully improves liver function in NAFLD. Hence, it can be recommended along with lifestyle modification for these patients. Further studies are recommended with a larger sample size.

Study of cardioprotective activity of the methanolic extract of the aerial parts of Bauhinia madagascariensis compared to Bauhinia purpurea against adrenaline-induced myocardial toxicity in rats

Cardiovascular ailments result in a great rate of mortality all over the world. Myocardial infarction is a common presentation of cardiovascular disease. The current work aimed to investigate and compare the cardioprotective potentials of methanolic extracts from the aerial parts from Bauhinia purpurea and Bauhinia madagascariensis in adrenaline-induced cardiotoxicity in rats. The rats were categorized into five groups as follows: control group, adrenaline-treated group, Bauhinia purpurea extract + adrenaline treated group, Bauhinia madagascariensis+ adrenaline treated group, reference drug (captopril) + adrenaline treated group. The extracts as well as the reference drug were orally administered for 21 consecutive days. On day 22, adrenaline was injected as a single dose for 2 consecutive days. The adrenaline injection caused a significant increase (p < 0.05) in serum cardiac markers (ALT, AST, CK-MB, LDH), angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) and matrix metalloproteinase (MMP-9), inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) activities, tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) cardiac lipid peroxides (MDA) levels and a significant decline (p < 0.05) in cardiac reduced glutathione (GSH) levels compared to their corresponding controls. The pretreatment extracts significantly ameliorated (p < 0.05) these alterations. Histopathological investigations supported the biochemical data. Bauhinia madagascariensis extract exerted a significant anti-inflammatory activity than that of Bauhinia purpurea. In addition, Bauhinia madagascariensis extract revealed a significant inhibitory activity on ACE compared to that of Bauhinia purpurea, (p < 0.05). These data reveal that both extracts had a strong protective activity against adrenaline-induced cardiotoxicity via improving cardiac function, reducing ECG and histopathological changes that could be mediated in part through its anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory effects, inhibition of ACE, MMP-9, and iNOS.

Rosa platyacantha Schrenk from Kazakhstan-Natural Source of Bioactive Compounds with Cosmetic Significance

Plants belonging to the Rosa genus are known for their high content of bioactive molecules and broad spectrum of healing and cosmetic activities. Rosa platyacantha Schrenk is a wild-type species abundant in the mountainous regions of Kazakhstan. The phytochemical composition as well as the bioactivity of R. platyacantha extracts have not been fully investigated to date. In this study, various parts of R. platyacantha plant, collected in Almaty region, Kazakhstan, were used to prepare five hydroalcoholic extracts (R1–R5). The extracts were compared for the content of phytochemicals and selected biological activities, which are important for the potential cosmetic application of R. platyacantha. Extract R3, prepared from flower buds, showed the most significant antioxidant and tyrosinase inhibitory potential, decreasing the monophenolase and diphenolase activities of tyrosinase. Extract R3 showed also collagenase inhibitory activity and cytotoxicity against human melanoma cells A375, being less cytotoxic for noncancerous skin keratinocytes HaCaT. Analysis of fractions E and F, obtained from R3 extracts, revealed that quercetin, kaempferol, rutin, and their derivatives are more likely responsible for the tyrosinase inhibitory properties of R. platyacantha extracts.

Going "Green" in the Prevention and Management of Atherothrombotic Diseases: The Role of Dietary Polyphenols

During the 20th century processed and ready-to-eat foods became routinely consumed resulting in a sharp rise of fat, salt, and sugar intake in people's diets. Currently, the global incidence of obesity, raised blood lipids, hypertension, and diabetes in an increasingly aged population contributes to the rise of atherothrombotic events and cardiovascular diseases (CVD) mortality. Drug-based therapies are valuable strategies to tackle and help manage the socio-economic impact of atherothrombotic disorders though not without adverse side effects. The inclusion of fresh fruits and vegetables rich in flavonoids to human diets, as recommended by WHO offers a valuable nutritional strategy, alternative to drug-based therapies, to be explored in the prevention and management of atherothrombotic diseases at early stages. Though polyphenols are mostly associated to color and taste in foods, food flavonoids are emerging as modulators of cholesterol biosynthesis, appetite and food intake, blood pressure, platelet function, clot formation, and anti-inflammatory signaling, supporting the health-promoting effects of polyphenol-rich diets in mitigating the impact of risk factors in atherothrombotic disorders and CVD events. Here we overview the current knowledge on the effect of polyphenols particularly of flavonoid intake on the atherothrombotic risk factors and discuss the caveats and challenges involved with current experimental cell-based designs.

Genus Rosas : A Review of Ethnobotany, Phytochemistry and Traditional Aspects According to Islamic Traditional Medicine (ITM)

Rosa spp. is an important genus in the Rosaceae family which is a source of medicinal natural products, particularly polyphenolic and terpenoid compounds and is used in several traditional medicines such as Islamic Traditional Medicine (ITM) to cure various diseases. Plants in this genus are known to possess anti-inflammatory, antidiabetic, anti-constipation, cardioprotective and neuroprotective activities. Furthermore, phytochemical investigations have reported Rosa species to contain a wide range of chemical compounds including quercetin, kaempferol, catechin, citronellol, limonene, lycopene, carvacrol, thymol, ascorbic acid (vitamin C), rosmarinic acid, etc. The current review is an attempt to cover the available findings on the ethnobotany and photochemistry of this genus as well as its medicinal aspects in ITM.

Potential natural inhibitors of xanthine oxidase and HMG-CoA reductase in cholesterol regulation: in silico analysis

Background

Hypercholesterolemia has posed a serious threat of heart diseases and stroke worldwide. Xanthine oxidase (XO), the rate-limiting enzyme in uric acid biosynthesis, is regarded as the root of reactive oxygen species (ROS) that generate atherosclerosis and cholesterol crystals. β-Hydroxy β-methylglutaryl-coenzyme A reductase (HMGR) is a rate-limiting enzyme in cholesterol biosynthesis. Although some commercially available enzyme inhibiting drugs have effectively reduced cholesterol levels, most of them have failed to meet potential drug candidates’ requirements. Here, we have carried out an in-silico analysis of secondary metabolites that have already shown good inhibitory activity against XO and HMGR in a wet lab setup.

Methods

Out of 118 secondary metabolites reviewed, sixteen molecules inhibiting XO and HMGR were selected based on the IC₅₀ values reported in in vitro assays. Further, receptor-based virtual screening was carried out against secondary metabolites using GOLD Protein-Ligand Docking Software, combined with subsequent post-docking, to study the binding affinities of ligands to the enzymes. In-silico ADMET analysis was carried out to explore their pharmacokinetic properties, followed by toxicity prediction through ProTox-II.

Results

The molecular docking of amentoflavone (GOLD score 70.54, ∆G _calc. = − 10.4 Kcal/mol) and ganomycin I (GOLD score 59.61, ∆G _calc. = − 6.8 Kcal/mol) displayed that the drug has effectively bound at the competitive site of XO and HMGR, respectively. Besides, 6-paradol and selgin could be potential drug candidates inhibiting XO. Likewise, n-octadecanyl-O-α-D-glucopyranosyl (6′ → 1″)-O-α-D-glucopyranoside could be potential drug candidates to maintain serum cholesterol. In-silico ADMET analysis has shown that these sixteen metabolites were optimal within the categorical range compared to commercially available XO and HMGR inhibitors, respectively. Toxicity analysis through ProTox-II revealed that 6-gingerol, ganoleucoin K, and ganoleucoin Z are toxic for human use.

Conclusion

This computational analysis supports earlier experimental evidence towards the inhibition of XO and HMGR by natural products. Further study is necessary to explore the clinical efficacy of these secondary molecules, which might be alternatives for the treatment of hypercholesterolemia.

Anti-COVID-19 drug candidates: A review on potential biological activities of natural products in the management of new coronavirus infection

Background and aim

The novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19) caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) is now become a worldwide pandemic bringing over 71 million confirmed cases, while the specific drugs and vaccines approved for this disease are still limited regarding their effectiveness and adverse events. Since virus incidences are still on rise, infectivity and mortality may also rise in the near future, natural products are highly considered to be valuable sources for the discovery of new antiviral drugs against SARS-CoV-2. This present review aims to comprehensively summarize the up-to-date scientific literatures on biological activities of plant- and mushroom-derived compounds relevant to mechanistic targets involved in SARS-CoV-2 infection and inflammatory-associated pathogenesis, including viral entry, replication and release, and the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS).

Experimental procedure

Data were retrieved from a literature search available on PubMed, Scopus and Google Scholar databases and collected until the end of May 2020. The findings from in vitro cell and non-cell based studies were considered, while the results of in silico studies were excluded.

Results and conclusion

Based on the previous findings in SARS-CoV studies, except in silico molecular docking analysis, herein, we provide a total of 150 natural compounds as potential candidates for development of new anti-COVID-19 drugs with higher efficacy and lower toxicity than the existing therapeutic agents. Several natural compounds have showed their promising actions on multiple therapeutic targets, which should be further explored. Among them, quercetin, one of the most abundant of plant flavonoids, is proposed as a lead candidate with its ability on the virus side to inhibit SARS-CoV spike protein-angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) interaction, viral protease and helicase activities, as well as on the host cell side to inhibit ACE activity and increase intracellular zinc level.

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Relevant and up-to-date publications in natural products with anti-COVID-19 potential.

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Emphasis on the potential of anti-COVID-19 plant/mushroom-based medicine.

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Twenty four proposed natural compounds for the anti-COVID-19 drug candidates.

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Quercetin emerged as the most promising compound acting on multiple therapeutic targets.

Inhibitory effects of tangeretin and trans-ethyl caffeate on the HMG-CoA reductase activity: Potential agents for reducing cholesterol levels

One of the pathways to reduce cholesterol production in the liver is through the inhibition of HMG-Coa reductase (HMGCR) by current drugs, statins. However, these have side effects if consumed in prolonged periods. Tangeretin and trans-ethyl caffeate as alternative drugs in reducing hypercholesterolemia and preventing atherosclerosis have never been reported. Their effects on inhibiting HMGCR activity were investigated through enzymatic method (in vitro and in vivo). The toxicity property was analyzed on the Serum Glutamate Oxalate Transaminase (SGOT)/Serum Glutamate Piruvate Transaminase (SGPT) levels and rat liver histology. The results showed that both compounds inhibited HMGCR activity significantly compare to the control simvastatin (p < 0.05). Tangeretin which showed very good activity in inhibiting HMGCR (83.8 of % inhibition, equal to simvastatin) was selected and used for anti-hypercholesterolemia in vivo assessment. Furthermore, tangeretin was shown to effectively reduced Total Cholesterol (TC) and Low Density Lipoprotein (LDL), and increased High Density Lipoprotein (HDL) levels significantly compared to the simvastatin group (p < 0.05). Tangeretin group was also proven to inhibit HMGCR rat liver activity significantly compare to the control simvastatin (p < 0.05). The toxicity study on the SGOT/SGPT levels and liver histology revealed that there were no side effects after administration by tangeretin. Results found that both tangeretin and trans-ethyl caffeate are potent candidates as anti-hypercholesterolemia agent in vitro. In addition, tangeretin was also shown to be safe and suitable as an alternative treatment for controlling hypercholesterolemia in vivo as well as have potency for preventing atherosclerosis.

How to Boost our Immune System Against Coronavirus Infection?

New emerging viruses like coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) infections are always frightening. We know little about their transmission, behaviors, clinical manifestations, and outcomes. There is no vaccine or therapeutic strategies to deal with these infections yet. In this situation, preventive measures may be promising. Hand hygiene is a very important issue in preventing viral infection; however, there are other entities that can enhance the immune response and help in infection prevention. Herein we review some measures for boosting the immune system.

Evaluation of the cardioprotective effect of Casuarina suberosa extract in rats

The aim of the current study was to examine and compare the cardioprotective activities of the chloroform and petroleum extracts the leaves of Casuarina suberosa in isoproterenol (ISO)-induced cardiac tissue oxidative stress. Rats were categorized into 6 groups as follows: control group, vehicle or Tween 80-treated group, ISO-treated group, chloroform extract + ISO treated group, petroleum ether extract + ISO treated group and Reference drug (Captopril) + ISO treated group. ISO injection significantly (p < 0.05) increased the activities of cardiac marker enzymes (CK-MB, LDH, ALT, and AST), cardiac troponin-I, levels of lipid peroxides (MDA), nitric oxide (NO), and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), serum angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) activity and neutrophil infiltration marker; myeloperoxidase (MPO) in the cardiac tissues. Pretreatment with chloroform or petroleum ether extracts significantly (p < 0.05) prevented the ISO-induced alteration; they upregulated VEGF expression. Histopathological findings corroborated biochemical results. These extracts exerted a cardioprotective effect by alleviating oxidative stress.

Effects of Polyphenol-Rich Fruit Extracts on Diet-Induced Obesity in Rodents: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Background::

Obesity is a complex condition of high prevalence and cost to the public health system. Recent research has demonstrated the potential of natural products, such as polyphenol-rich fruit extracts, for use in the treatment of obesity. The goal of this systematic review and meta-analysis is to determine the metabolic effects of polyphenol-rich fruit extracts on diet-induced obesity (DIO) in rodents.

Methods:

We searched MEDLINE, EMBASE, and Web of Science databases to identify preclinical studies that assessed polyphenol-rich fruit extracts compared to placebo on DIO in rodents in December 2018. Two researchers selected the studies, extracted the data, and assessed the quality of studies. Meta-analyses of standardized mean difference (SMD) of outcomes were calculated in Stata 11, and causes of heterogeneity were assessed by meta-regression.

Results:

We included 14 studies in the systematic review and 13 studies with 21 matched groups in the metaanalysis. Polyphenol-rich fruit extracts reduced the total body weight gain (SMD = -1.48; confidence interval: - 1.95, -1.01), energy intake (SMD = -0.42; -0.67, -0.17), visceral adipose tissue (SMD = -0.96; -1.25, -0.66), triglycerides (SMD = -1.00; -1.39, -0.62), cholesterol (SMD = -1.18, -1.66, -0.69), LDL- c (SMD = -1.15; -1.65, - 0.65), fasting glucose (SMD = -1.05; -1.65, -0.46), and fasting insulin (SMD = -1.40; -1.80, -1.00) when compared to vehicle.

Conclusion:

Polyphenol-rich fruit extract had positive effects on weight gain, dyslipidaemia, insulin resistance at different doses, and fruit source in male mice.

Chemical constituents, experimental and clinical pharmacology of Rosa damascena: a literature review

CONTEXT

Rosa damascena Mill. is prescribed for the management of chest and abdominal pain, constipation, digestive disorders, menstrual bleeding and liver ailments.

OBJECTIVE

The current review compiles up to date and complete information of whole plant of R. damascena with particular emphasis on its numerous scientifically proved pharmacological effects, traditional and folk medicinal uses.

KEY FINDING

The data on the pharmacological effects of R. damascena were collected from various databases such as PubMed, Wiley Online Library, Elsevier and Web of Science using the keywords like phytoconstituents, pharmacology, medicinal uses and biological activity of R. damascene. Rosa damascena has a wide spectrum of bio-pharmacological activity like antidepressant, hypoglycaemic, anti-inflammatory, analgesic, antioxidant and antimicrobial. The main ingredients of R. damascena essential oil responsible for pharmacological activity are geraniol and citronellol. Its uses have been widely accepted in traditional system of medicines for the management of numerous diseases of human beings in different dosage forms.

SUMMARY

Rosa damascena has a significant place in traditional system of medicine. It is cost-effective and an important plant with curative application in contemporary medicine. Further studies on the characterization of chemical constituents and scientific basis of pharmacological activity of R. damascena should be carried out to evaluate its impact on traditional system of medicines. Large-scale preclinical and clinical trials will be beneficial in investigating the mechanism of the therapeutic potential of R. damascene to explore its uses in pharmaceutical industries.

Antioxidant, antihypertensive, anti-hyperglycemic, and antimicrobial activity of aqueous extracts from twelve native plants of the Yucatan coast

Looking for a biotechnical potential, aqueous extracts of leaves of 12 native species used in the Mayan traditional medicine of the coastal dune and mangrove of Yucatan (Mexico) were selected to evaluate their biological activities. Rhizophora mangle and Manilkara zapota showed the highest free radical scavenging activity (3.94 ± 0.19 and 6.42 ± 0.32 μg/mL, respectively), and the highest antihypertensive activity was obtained from Solanum donianum (0.38 μg/mL). The anti-hyperglycemic activity of these species was also tested; the highest activities were registered with R. mangle. The antimicrobial activity of Malvaviscus arboreus, S. donianum, M. zapota, and R. mangle at 10% (w/v) was positive against six human pathogenic bacteria and Bonellia macrocarpa against one pathogenic fungus. Solanum donianum, M. zapota, B. macrocarpa, and R. mangle were positive against two pathogenic plant fungi. These results show that the aqueous extracts of five native plants of the Yucatan coast have potential as antioxidants, ACE inhibitors, α-amylase and α-glucosidase inhibitors, and as antimicrobials, which make their exploration for utilization in the agricultural and pharmaceutical industries a possibility.

The effect of aqueous extract of Rosa damascena on formaldehyde-induced toxicity in mice testes

CONTEXT

Rosa damascena L. (Rosaceae) (RD) essential oil and extracts are commonly used as a flavour in herbal medicine which increase libido. Previous studies have shown inhalation of RD flower's oil increases libido and causes protective effects in formaldehyde (FA)-induced testicular damage.

OBJECTIVE

The protective effects of aqueous extract of RD on the male reproductive system of mice were examined following FA-induced damage.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Forty-eight adult NMRI male mice were randomly assigned to six groups (n = 8): control (normal saline, 10 mg/kg); RD40 (40 mg/kg, p.o.); FA treated (10 mg/kg of 10%, i.p.) and FA + RD treated at 10, 20 and 40 mg/kg (FA + RD10), (FA + RD20) and (FA + RD40), respectively, for 40 days. At the end of treatment regimes, serum testosterone (T) level and the reproductive activity, viz. body/organ weights, testicular structure and sperm characteristics were studied.

RESULTS

Formaldehyde administration significantly decreased serum T level (p < 0.001), testicular weight/volume, tubular diameter and sperm characteristics compared to the control group (p < 0.05). RD (40 mg/kg) administration in FA-treated mice significantly improved serum T level, testicular weight/histological structure, tubular diameter, Leydig cell number and epididymal sperm characteristics in comparison to its lower doses and the control group (p < 0.05).

DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSIONS

We may conclude that RD flower extract can withstand effects of FA in the male reproductive system of mice possibly due to its antioxidative properties.

Preventive Effect of Hydroalcoholic Extract of Rosa damascena on Cardiovascular Parameters in Acute Hypertensive Rats Induced by Angiotensin II

Background:

Rosa damascena (R.D) is an aromatic plant with numerous therapeutic effects including cardiovascular effect. The mechanism cardiovascular effect of R.D is unclear and suggested mediated through renin–angiotensin system (RAS). Therefore, in this study, the role of hydroalcoholic extract of R.D on acute hypertension induced by AngII was evaluated.

Methods:

After anesthesia, femoral artery and vein of rats were cannulated for recording cardiovascular responses and drug injection, respectively. Systolic blood pressure (SBP), mean arterial blood pressure (MAP), and heart rate (HR) were recorded continuously by power lab software. Rats were divided into saline, AngII (50 ng/kg), AngII + Losartan (10 mg/kg), and three groups of R.D extract (250, 500, and 1000 mg/kg). Losartan and AngII were administered intravenously and the other ones intraperitoneal. In the R.D groups, 30 min after injection of the extract, AngII was injected and the maximum changes in SBP, MAP, and HR were calculated and compared to that in control and AngII groups.

Results:

Results show that AngII significantly increased SBP, MAP, and decreased HR than the control group which was blocked by losartan. SBP and MAP in R.D + AngII groups were significantly lower than AngII alone (P < 0.05 –P < 0.001). Only MAP in higher dose (1000 mg/kg) was significantly lower than low dose (250 mg/kg; P < 0.05). Two higher doses also significantly decreased bradycardia induced by AngII (P < 0. 01).

Conclusions:

The preventive effect of hydroalcoholic extract of R.D on cardiovascular parameters maybe is mediated by suppression of AngII activity.

MDR reversal and pro-apoptotic effects of statins and statins combined with flavonoids in colon cancer cells

The resistance of cancer cells to a variety of structurally non-related cytotoxic drugs is known as multidrug resistance phenomenon (MDR). In cellular membranes an activity of MDR transporters such as P-glycoprotein (ABCB1) is affected by their lipid environment. Many various compounds have been examined for their ability to restore drug-sensitivity of resistant cancer cells. Statins, inhibitors of the key enzyme of mevalonate pathway HMG-CoA (3-hydroxy-3-methyl-glutaryl-coenzyme A) reductase are drugs commonly prescribed in order to reduce serum level of cholesterol and to diminish the risk of cardiovascular disease. Statins as drugs that influence lipid composition of cell membrane and in that way they also exert influence on lipid bilayer properties appear to be good candidates as MDR modulators. In this work it was shown that statins - mevastatin and simvastatin exert antiproliferative, pro-apoptotic and reversing drug resistance effect in human colon adenocarcinoma cell line LoVo and its drug-resistant subline LoVo/Dx. A hypothesis was also checked whether flavones, which as it is well known are able to influence the biosynthesis of cholesterol, may change the anticancer activity of statins. Our investigations have revealed that combined use of statins and studied flavonoids results in enhanced cell growth inhibition and apoptosis and lower cancer cell proliferation as compared to the application only statins alone. Moreover, in drug resistant LoVo/Dx cells a stronger decrease of resistance to doxorubicine was observed in the presence of statins in combination with flavones as compared to the effect observed for statins only.

Angiotensin-1-converting enzyme inhibition, antioxidant activity, and modulation of cerebral Na+/K+ ATPase by free phenolics of African locust bean (Parkia biglobosa)

AIMS

To investigate the antioxidant activities and effects of free phenols (FPPB) and bound phenols (BPPB) of Parkia biglobosa leaves on some enzymes of neuro-cardiovascular relevance.

METHODS AND RESULTS

HPLC-DAD fingerprinting of FPPB and BPPB, and the antihemolytic, radical (1,1-diphenyl-2 picrylhydrazyl, DPPH; 2,2-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzthiazoline-6-sulphonic acid), ABTS) scavenging and ferric reducing antioxidant properties of extracts, were assessed. In addition, the effects of the phenolics on angiotensin-1-converting enzyme (ACE), cerebral acetylcholinesterase/butyrylcholinesterase (AChE/BuChE), and Na+/K+ATPase were determined in vitro. FPPB was more potent than BPPB in terms of ABTS (EC50:4.06 ± 0.3 vs 24.07 ± 2.1 μg/mL) and DPPH (EC50:3.82 ± 0.2 vs 10.22 ± 0.1 μg/mL) radicals scavenged, respectively. The free phenolic extract was a better DPPH. scavenger than ascorbic acid (EC50 = 12.58 ± 0.4 μg/mL; DPPH reference) and compared well with Trolox (EC50:4.44 ± 0.08 μg/mL; ABTS reference). The anti-hemolytic effect of FPPB (36%) and BPPB (53%) was highest at 15 μg/mL but lower than that recorded for ascorbic acid (67% at 10 μg/mL). Even though FPPB (IC50 = 15.35 ± 4.0 μg/mL) and BPPB (IC50 = 46.85 ± 3.3 μg/mL) showed considerably lower ACE-inhibitory effect than ramipril (IC50:0.173 ± 0.04 μg/mL), both extracts demonstrated dose-dependent, significant (p < 0.01/p < 0.05) inhibition of the enzyme. FPPB increased cerebral Na+/K+ATPase activity but neither phenolic extract affects cerebral AChE/BuChE activities. HPLC-DAD revealed catechin, caffeic acid, and quercetin, respectively, as the major phenolics (mg/g) in FPPB (29.85, 30.29, and 17.10) and BPPB (32.70, 30.51, and 19.25).

CONCLUSION

The effects of P biglobosa on ACE and cerebral ATPase are related to its constituent phenolics. ACE inhibition could be an important mechanism underlying the documented hypotensive effect of the plant.

Rosa damascena restrains Plasmodium falciparum progression in vitro and impedes malaria pathogenesis in murine model

Malaria the parasitic disease of tropical countries is seeking newer therapeutic strategies owing to the drug resistance to existing drugs. The pathogenesis after infection renders the host to oxidative stress resulting in an altered immune status. Natural products rich in phenols are a source of bio-actives that could have a role in alleviating such condition. The present study reports the phenol rich ethyl acetate extract from the petals of Rosa damascena (RdEa) to be active against Plasmodium falciparum in-vitro and Plasmodium berghei in-vivo. It restores the haemoglobin level while increasing the mean survival time and chemo-suppression in P. berghei infected mice. The HPLC characterised RdEa was found to be rich in Gallic acid and Rutin besides other phenols. RdEa was capable of scavenging the free radicals and modulating the pro-inflammatory mediators (IL6, TNF, IFN and NO) favourably and also restored the architecture of hepatocytes as evidenced through histopathology. The extract was able to arrest the lipopolysaccharide (LPS) induced damage of J774A.1 cells (murine macrophages) and was found to be safe in mice upto 2000 mg/kg body weight.

A systematic review of the efficacy and safety of Rosa damascena Mill. with an overview on its phytopharmacological properties

Rosa damascena Mill. is one of the most famous ornamental plants cultivated all over the world mostly for perfumery industries. Traditionally it has been used as an astringent, analgesic, cardiac and intestinal tonic.The paucity ofauthoritative monographs urged usto summarize its clinical effectiveness and safety with acomprehensive review of the literature. "PUBMED", "SCOPUS", "WEBOF SCIENCE" were searched up to April 30, 2017 with search terms:("Rosa damascena" OR "Damask Rose"). All human studies with any mono-preparation were included. In vitro and animal studies from "PUBMED"were also reviewed and outlined. Of "1000" identified publications, twelveeligibleclinical trials were retrieved. Antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anticancer, protective neuronal, cardiac, gastrointestinal and hepatic effectsin 30 in vitro and 21 animal studies were also shown. there are promising evidences for the effectiveness and safety of Rosa damascena Mill in pain relief, but confirmatory studies withstandardized products is suggested.

Rose Mentioned in the Works of Scientists of the Medieval East and Implications in Modern Science

Fragrant roses (e.g., Rosa damascena, R.gallica, R. centifolia) have been mentioned in ancient texts written by scientists of the Medieval East such as Al-Kindi (9th CE), Al-Dinawari (9th CE), Rhazes (9th CE), Az-Zahrawi (10th CE), Ibn Sina (11th CE), Al-Mizza (14th CE), and Ad-Dimasqi (14th CE). The great physician Ibn Sina emphasized the beneficial effects of rose fragrance on the heart and the brain. He praised rose water's effects on mind and spirit, and its beneficial effects on brain function and cognitive power. Modern studies have provided scientific evidence for this information.

Flavonoids-Rich Orthosiphon stamineus Extract as New Candidate for Angiotensin I-Converting Enzyme Inhibition: A Molecular Docking Study

This study aims to evaluate the in vitro angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibition activity of different extracts of Orthosiphon stamineus (OS) leaves and their main flavonoids, namely rosmarinic acid (RA), sinensetin (SIN), eupatorin (EUP) and 3′-hydroxy-5,6,7,4′-tetramethoxyflavone (TMF). Furthermore, to identify possible mechanisms of action based on structure–activity relationships and molecular docking. The in vitro ACE inhibition activity relied on determining hippuric acid (HA) formation from ACE-specific substrate (hippuryl-histidyl-leucine (HHL)) by the action of ACE enzyme. A High Performance Liquid Chromatography method combined with UV detection was developed and validated for measurement the concentration of produced HA. The chelation ability of OS extract and its reference compounds was evaluated by tetramethylmurexide reagent. Furthermore, molecular docking study was performed by LeadIT-FlexX: BioSolveIT’s LeadIT program. OS ethanolic extract (OS-E) exhibited highest inhibition and lowest IC₅₀ value (45.77 ± 1.17 µg/mL) against ACE compared to the other extracts. Among the tested reference compounds, EUP with IC₅₀ 15.35 ± 4.49 µg/mL had highest inhibition against ACE and binding ability with Zn (II) (56.03% ± 1.26%) compared to RA, TMF and SIN. Molecular docking studies also confirmed that flavonoids inhibit ACE via interaction with the zinc ion and this interaction is stabilized by other interactions with amino acids in the active site. In this study, we have demonstrated that changes in flavonoids active core affect their capacity to inhibit ACE. Moreover, we showed that ACE inhibition activity of flavonoids compounds is directly related to their ability to bind with zinc ion in the active site of ACE enzyme. It was also revealed that OS extract contained high amount of flavonoids other than RA, TMF, SIN and EUP. As such, application of OS extract is useful as inhibitors of ACE.

Cardiovascular aspects of geriatric medicines in traditional Persian medicine; a review of phytochemistry and pharmacology

BACKGROUND

Geriatrics are a group of patients over 65 years and with multiple comorbidities and different functional impairments. Apart from decline in body mass, presence of exhaustion and general fatigue, an aged person may also suffer from various disorders. Approximately, around 30% of geriatric subjects have significant cardiovascular ailments. Apart from the intensive management of cardiovascular aspects in elderly, monitoring of the complementary cardiac medicine in those people should be received more attention.

PURPOSE

There are many management lines for a cardio-geriatric condition in Traditional Persian Medicine (TPM). Accordingly, this paper aimed to deal with those medicaments as well as evidence-based clinical aspects and phytochemistry.

METHODS

By searching through main pharmaceutical manuscripts of Persian medicine during 10th-18th centuries (A.D.), concurrently, natural medicines for geriatrics and remedies for cardiovascular ailments were derived. On the other side, related phytochemical and pharmacological aspects of those remedies were highlighted.

RESULTS

In all, 38 cardiovascular and 34 geriatric medicaments were found in those manuscripts. Antihyperlipidemic and cholesterol lowering activities of those medicines were the most reported activities in current medicine. However, other pharmacological reports were related to hypotensive, coagulant, cardio-protective and cardiotonic activities. In regard of the chemical composition, medicaments were mainly of polyphenols and flavonoids and also most of the employed extracts and fractions were yielded from polar or semi-polar solvents.

CONCLUSION

With reference to these findings, flavonoid-rich medicaments from Persian medicine may be selected as considerable herbs for geriatrics with cardiovascular ailments.

Lipid Lowering Effects of Hydroalcoholic Extract of Anethum graveolens L. and Dill Tablet in High Cholesterol Fed Hamsters

Objective. This study was aimed to determine the effect of Anethum graveolens extract and Anethum graveolens (dill) tablet on lipid profile, liver enzymes, and gene expression and enzymatic activity of HMG-CoA reductase in high cholesterol fed hamsters. Materials and Methods. Golden Syrian male hamsters (130 ± 10 g) were randomly divided into 6 groups (n = 6) and received daily the following: group 1 received chow + 2% cholesterol + 0.5% cholic acid (HCD), groups 2 and 3 received HCD diet plus 100 and 200 mg/kg hydroalcoholic extract of dill, respectively, and groups 4 and 5 received HCD diet plus 100 and 200 mg/kg dill tablet, respectively. Group 6 received only chow. After 1 month feeding serum biochemical factors were determined. HMG-CoA reductase mRNA level was measured (real-time PCR) and its activity was determined spectrophotometrically. Results. Compared with hypercholesterolemic group 1, lipid profile, blood glucose, and liver enzymes significantly decreased in all dill tablet or dill extract treated groups (p < 0.05). The changes in HMG-CoA reductase gene expression level and enzyme activity significantly reduced in animals that received 200 mg/kg of extract or tablet. Conclusion. Dill extract and dill tablet showed potential hypocholesterolemic properties in hamsters by inhibition of HMG-CoA reductase activity.

Rosa damascena as holy ancient herb with novel applications

Rosa damascena as an ornamental plant is commonly known as “Gole Mohammadi” in Iran. Iranian people have been called this plant, the flower of Prophet “Mohammad”. R. damascena is traditionally used for treatment of abdominal and chest pains, strengthening the heart, menstrual bleeding, digestive problems and constipation.

This paper reviews the ethnopharmacology, phytochemistry and pharmaceutical investigations on R. damascena.

All relevant databases and local books on ethnopharmacology of R. damascena were probed without limitation up to 31st March 2015 and the results of these studies were collected and reviewed.

R. damascena has an important position in Iranian traditional medicine. It is economically a valuable plant with therapeutic applications in modern medicine. The antimicrobial, antioxidant, analgesic, anti-inflammatory, anti-diabetic and anti-depressant properties of R. damascena have been confirmed. Citronellol and geraniol as the main components of R. damascena essential oil are responsible for pharmacological activities.

Overall, R. damascena as holy ancient plant with modern pharmacological investigations should be more investigated as traditional uses in large preclinical and clinical studies.

Cranberry juice consumption lowers markers of cardiometabolic risk, including blood pressure and circulating C-reactive protein, triglyceride, and glucose concentrations in adults

BACKGROUND

Cardiometabolic risk is the risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD), diabetes, or stroke, which are leading causes of mortality and morbidity worldwide.

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this study was to determine the potential of low-calorie cranberry juice (LCCJ) to lower cardiometabolic risk.

METHODS

A double-blind, placebo-controlled, parallel-arm study was conducted with controlled diets. Thirty women and 26 men (mean baseline characteristics: 50 y; weight, 79 kg; body mass index, 28 kg/m(2)) completed an 8-wk intervention with LCCJ or a flavor/color/energy-matched placebo beverage. Twice daily volunteers consumed 240 mL of LCCJ or the placebo beverage, containing 173 or 62 mg of phenolic compounds and 6.5 or 7.5 g of total sugar per 240-mL serving, respectively.

RESULTS

Fasting serum triglycerides (TGs) were lower after consuming LCCJ and demonstrated a treatment × baseline interaction such that the participants with higher baseline TG concentrations were more likely to experience a larger treatment effect (1.15 ± 0.04 mmol/L vs. 1.25 ± 0.04 mmol/L, respectively; P = 0.027). Serum C-reactive protein (CRP) was lower for individuals consuming LCCJ than for individuals consuming the placebo beverage [ln transformed values of 0.522 ± 0.115 ln(mg/L) vs. 0.997 ± 0.120 ln(mg/L), P = 0.0054, respectively, and equivalent to 1.69 mg/L vs. 2.71 mg/L back-transformed]. LCCJ lowered diastolic blood pressure (BP) compared with the placebo beverage (69.2 ± 0.8 mm Hg for LCCJ vs. 71.6 ± 0.8 mm Hg for placebo; P = 0.048). Fasting plasma glucose was lower (P = 0.03) in the LCCJ group (5.32 ± 0.03 mmol/L) than in the placebo group (5.42 ± 0.03 mmol/L), and LCCJ had a beneficial effect on homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance for participants with high baseline values (P = 0.035).

CONCLUSION

LCCJ can improve several risk factors of CVD in adults, including circulating TGs, CRP, and glucose, insulin resistance, and diastolic BP. This trial was registered at clinicaltrials.gov as NCT01295684.

Bioactivity guided fractionation and hypolipidemic property of a novel HMG-CoA reductase inhibitor from Ficus virens Ait

BACKGROUND

The current perspective for the search of 3-hydroxy-3-methyl-glutaryl-coenzyme A (HMG-CoA) reductase inhibitor has been shifted towards a natural agent also having antioxidant property. Thus, this study was intended to isolate and identify the bioactive compounds from methanolic extract of Ficus virens bark (FVBM) and to evaluate their antioxidant, HMG-CoA reductase inhibitory and hypolipidemic activity.

METHODS

Bioactivity guided fractionation and isolation of bioactive compound from FVBM extract has been done to isolate and characterize the potent HMG-CoA reductase (HMGR) inhibitor with antioxidant activity by using repeated extensive column chromatography followed by spectroscopic methods, including Infrared (IR), 1H & 13C nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) and Mass spectrum analysis. The in vitro HMGR inhibition and enzyme kinetic assay was determined using HMG-CoA as substrate. In addition, antioxidant activity of the new isolated compound, was measured using 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical scavenging assay and FRAP value. In-silico molecular informatics of HMGR enzyme type inhibition and pharmacokinetics data of the new compound was further evaluated through molecular docking and ADME-T studies. Further, in-vivo hypolipidemic property of FVBM extract and newly isolated compound was also analyzed in triton-WR 1339 induced rats.

RESULTS

Thereby, we report the discovery of n-Octadecanyl-O-α-D-glucopyranosyl(6'→1″)-O-α-D-glucopyranoside (F18) as a novel HMG-CoA reductase inhibitor with strong antioxidant property. This inhibitor exhibited not only higher free radical scavenging activity but also marked HMG-CoA reductase inhibitory activity with an IC50 value of 84±2.8 ng/ml. This inhibitory activity concurred with kinetic study that showed inhibition constant (K i) of 84 ng/ml via an uncompetitive mode of inhibition. The inhibition was also corroborated by molecular docking analysis and in silico pharmacokinetics data. The in vivo study revealed that administration of FVBM extract (at higher dose, 100 mg/rat) and the inhibitor (1 mg/rat) to Triton WR-1339-induced hyperlipidemic rats significantly ameliorated the altered levels of plasma lipids and lipoproteins including hepatic HMG-CoA reductase activity; this effect was comparable to the effect of standard drug atorvastatin.

CONCLUSIONS

The in vitro, in silico and in vivo results clearly demonstrated the antioxidant potential and therapeutic efficacy of the inhibitor as an alternate drug against hyperlipidemia.

Identification of phenolic compounds in petals of nasturtium flowers (Tropaeolum majus) by high-performance liquid chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry and determination of oxygen radical absorbance capacity (ORAC)

The contents and profile of polyphenols were analyzed in edible petals of nasturtium flowers (Tropaeolum majus) of three colors, and their oxygen radical absorbance capacities (ORAC) were compared. Three primary anthocyanins (ACNs) and 15 non-ACN phenolic compounds including hydroxycinammic acids (HCAs) and flavonoids (myricetin, quercetin, and kaempferol derivatives) were detected. Anthocyanin concentration was within 31.9 ± 21.7 and 114.5 ± 2.3 mg cyanidin-3-glucoside (cy-3-glu)/100 g fresh weight (FW) in yellow and red petals, respectively. The concentration of HCAs varied between 33.3 ± 7.1 and 235.6 ± 8.1 mg chlorogenic acid equivalents/100 g FW for red and yellow flowers, respectively. Red flowers had the highest level of flavonoids (315.1 ± 2.4 mg myricetin equivalents/100 g FW) and the highest ORAC radical-scavenging activity. These results show the diversity and abundance of polyphenolic compounds in nasturtium flowers, which could be the basis for applications in functional foods, cosmetics, and pharmaceuticals.

New phenolic compounds from Coreopsis tinctoria Nutt. and their antioxidant and angiotensin i-converting enzyme inhibitory activities

Three new phenolic compounds, coretinphenol (1), coretincone (2), and coretinphencone (3), were isolated from the buds of Coreopsis tinctoria Nutt., together with nine known compounds, including butein (4), okanin (5), isoliquiritigenin (6), maritimetin (7), taxifolin (8), isookanin (9), marein (10), sachalinoside B (11), and 2-phenylethyl-β-d-glucoside (12). The chemical structures of these compounds were elucidated by extensive spectroscopic analysis and on the basis of their chemical reactivity. This work represents the first recorded example of the isolation of compounds 1–3, 6, 7, 9, 11, and 12 from C. tinctoria. Compounds 5–9 showed strong diphenyl(2,4,6-trinitrophenyl)iminoazanium (DPPH) radical-scavenging activity, with IC50 values of 3.35 ± 0.45, 9.6 ± 2.32, 4.12 ± 0.21, 6.2 ± 0.43, and 7.9 ± 0.53 μM, respectively. Compounds 2 and 8 exhibited angiotensin I-converting enzyme inhibitory activity, with IC50 values of 228 ± 4.47 and 145.67 ± 3.45 μM, respectively. The activities of phenolic compounds isolated from C. tinctoria support the medicinal use of this plant in the prevention of cardiovascular diseases.