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Rezaee N, Hone E, Sohrabi HR, Johnson S, Zhong L, Chatur P, Gunzburg S, Martins RN, Fernando WMADB. Sorghum Grain Polyphenolic Extracts Demonstrate Neuroprotective Effects Related to Alzheimer's Disease in Cellular Assays. Foods 2024; 13:1716. [PMID: 38890943 PMCID: PMC11171927 DOI: 10.3390/foods13111716] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2024] [Revised: 05/23/2024] [Accepted: 05/23/2024] [Indexed: 06/20/2024] Open
Abstract
Sorghum grain contains high levels and a diverse profile of polyphenols (PPs), which are antioxidants known to reduce oxidative stress when consumed in the diet. Oxidative stress leading to amyloid-β (Aβ) aggregation, neurotoxicity, and mitochondrial dysfunction is implicated in the pathogenesis of Alzheimer's disease (AD). Thus, PPs have gained attention as possible therapeutic agents for combating AD. This study aimed to (a) quantify the phenolic compounds (PP) and antioxidant capacities in extracts from six different varieties of sorghum grain and (b) investigate whether these PP extracts exhibit any protective effects on human neuroblastoma (BE(2)-M17) cells against Aβ- and tau-induced toxicity, Aβ aggregation, mitochondrial dysfunction, and reactive oxygen species (ROS) induced by Aβ and tert-butyl hydroperoxide (TBHP). PP and antioxidant capacity were quantified using chemical assays. Aβ- and tau-induced toxicity was determined using the 3-(4,5-dimenthylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-dimethyltetrazolium bromide (MTS) assay. The thioflavin T (Th-T) assay assessed anti-Aβ aggregation. The dichlorodihydrofluorescein diacetate (DCFDA) assay determined the levels of general ROS and the MitoSOX assay determined the levels of mitochondrial superoxide. Sorghum varieties Shawaya short black-1 and IS1311C possessed the highest levels of total phenolics, total flavonoids, and antioxidant capacity, and sorghum varieties differed significantly in their profile of individual PPs. All extracts significantly increased cell viability compared to the control (minus extract). Variety QL33 (at 2000 µg sorghum flour equivalents/mL) showed the strongest protective effect with a 28% reduction in Aβ-toxicity cell death. The extracts of all sorghum varieties significantly reduced Aβ aggregation. All extracts except that from variety B923296 demonstrated a significant (p ≤ 0.05) downregulation of Aβ-induced and TBHP-induced ROS and mitochondrial superoxide relative to the control (minus extract) in a dose- and variety-dependent manner. We have demonstrated for the first time that sorghum polyphenolic extracts show promising neuroprotective effects against AD, which indicates the potential of sorghum foods to exert a similar beneficial property in the human diet. However, further analysis in other cellular models and in vivo is needed to confirm these effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nasim Rezaee
- Centre of Excellence for Alzheimer’s Disease Research & Care, School of Medical and Health Sciences, Edith Cowan University, Joondalup, WA 6027, Australia (E.H.)
| | - Eugene Hone
- Centre of Excellence for Alzheimer’s Disease Research & Care, School of Medical and Health Sciences, Edith Cowan University, Joondalup, WA 6027, Australia (E.H.)
| | - Hamid R. Sohrabi
- Centre of Excellence for Alzheimer’s Disease Research & Care, School of Medical and Health Sciences, Edith Cowan University, Joondalup, WA 6027, Australia (E.H.)
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, NSW 2109, Australia
- Centre for Healthy Ageing, Health Futures Institute, Murdoch University, Murdoch, WA 6150, Australia
| | - Stuart Johnson
- School of Molecular and Life Sciences, Faculty of Science and Engineering, Curtin University, Perth, WA 6845, Australia
| | - Leizhou Zhong
- School of Molecular and Life Sciences, Faculty of Science and Engineering, Curtin University, Perth, WA 6845, Australia
| | - Prakhar Chatur
- School of Molecular and Life Sciences, Faculty of Science and Engineering, Curtin University, Perth, WA 6845, Australia
| | | | - Ralph N. Martins
- Centre of Excellence for Alzheimer’s Disease Research & Care, School of Medical and Health Sciences, Edith Cowan University, Joondalup, WA 6027, Australia (E.H.)
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, NSW 2109, Australia
| | - W. M. A. D. Binosha Fernando
- Centre of Excellence for Alzheimer’s Disease Research & Care, School of Medical and Health Sciences, Edith Cowan University, Joondalup, WA 6027, Australia (E.H.)
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Li Q, Zhu Y, Meng X, Tong HHY, Liu H. Experiment and molecular dynamics simulations reveal proanthocyanidin B2 and B3 can inhibit prion aggregation by different mechanisms. J Biomol Struct Dyn 2024; 42:2424-2436. [PMID: 37144732 DOI: 10.1080/07391102.2023.2209663] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2022] [Accepted: 04/14/2023] [Indexed: 05/06/2023]
Abstract
Prion diseases are a group of fatal neurodegenerative diseases caused by the misfolding and aggregation of prion protein (PrP), and the inhibition of PrP aggregation is one of the most effective therapeutic strategies. Proanthocyanidin B2 (PB2) and B3 (PB3), the effective natural antioxidants have been evaluated for the inhibition of amyloid-related protein aggregation. Since PrP has similar aggregation mechanism with other amyloid-related proteins, will PB2 and PB3 affect the aggregation of PrP? In this paper, experimental and molecular dynamics (MD) simulation methods were combined to investigate the influence of PB2 and PB3 on PrP aggregation. Thioflavin T assays showed PB2 and PB3 could inhibit PrP aggregation in a concentrate-dependent manner in vitro. To understand the underlying mechanism, we performed 400 ns all-atom MD simulations. The results suggested PB2 could stabilize the α2 C-terminus and the hydrophobic core of protein by stabilizing two important salt bridges R156-E196 and R156-D202, and consequently made global structure of protein more stable. Surprisingly, PB3 could not stabilize PrP, which may inhibit PrP aggregation through a different mechanism. Since dimerization is the first step of aggregation, will PB3 inhibit PrP aggregation by inhibiting the dimerization? To verify our assumption, we then explored the effect of PB3 on protein dimerization by performing 800 ns MD simulations. The results suggested PB3 could reduce the residue contacts and hydrogen bonds between two monomers, preventing dimerization process of PrP. The possible inhibition mechanism of PB2 and PB3 on PrP aggregation could provide useful information for drug development against prion diseases.Communicated by Ramaswamy H. Sarma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qin Li
- Faculty of Applied Sciences, Macao Polytechnic University, Macao, SAR, China
| | - Yongchang Zhu
- College of Chemical Engineering, Shijiazhuang University, Shijiazhuang, China
| | - Xiaoxiao Meng
- School of Pharmacy, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China
| | - Henry H Y Tong
- Faculty of Applied Sciences, Macao Polytechnic University, Macao, SAR, China
| | - Huanxiang Liu
- Faculty of Applied Sciences, Macao Polytechnic University, Macao, SAR, China
- School of Pharmacy, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China
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Ayuda-Durán B, Garzón-García L, González-Manzano S, Santos-Buelga C, González-Paramás AM. Insights into the Neuroprotective Potential of Epicatechin: Effects against Aβ-Induced Toxicity in Caenorhabditis elegans. Antioxidants (Basel) 2024; 13:79. [PMID: 38247503 PMCID: PMC10812808 DOI: 10.3390/antiox13010079] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2023] [Revised: 12/21/2023] [Accepted: 01/05/2024] [Indexed: 01/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Medical therapies to avoid the progression of Alzheimer's disease (AD) are limited to date. Certain diets have been associated with a lower incidence of neurodegenerative diseases. In particular, the regular intake of foods rich in polyphenols, such as epicatechin (EC), could help prevent or mitigate AD progression. This work aims to explore the neuroprotective effects of EC using different transgenic strains of Caenorhabditis elegans, which express human Aβ1-42 peptides and contribute to elucidating the mechanisms involved in the effects of EC in AD. The performed assays indicate that this flavan-3-ol was able to reduce the signs of β-amyloid accumulation in C. elegans, improving motility and chemotaxis and increasing survival in transgenic strain peptide producers compared to nematodes not treated with EC. The neuroprotective effects exhibited by EC in C. elegans could be explained by the modulation of inflammation and stress-associated genes, as well as autophagy, microgliosis, and heat shock signaling pathways, involving the regulation of cpr-5, epg-8, ced-7, ZC239.12, and hsp-16 genes. Overall, the results obtained in this study support the protective effects of epicatechin against Aβ-induced toxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Celestino Santos-Buelga
- Grupo de Investigación en Polifenoles (GIP-USAL), Campus Miguel de Unamuno, Universidad de Salamanca, 37007 Salamanca, Spain; (B.A.-D.); (L.G.-G.); (S.G.-M.)
| | - Ana M. González-Paramás
- Grupo de Investigación en Polifenoles (GIP-USAL), Campus Miguel de Unamuno, Universidad de Salamanca, 37007 Salamanca, Spain; (B.A.-D.); (L.G.-G.); (S.G.-M.)
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Li S, Hao L, Hu X. Natural products target glycolysis in liver disease. Front Pharmacol 2023; 14:1242955. [PMID: 37663261 PMCID: PMC10469892 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2023.1242955] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2023] [Accepted: 08/10/2023] [Indexed: 09/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Mitochondrial dysfunction plays an important role in the occurrence and development of different liver diseases. Oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS) dysfunction and production of reactive oxygen species are closely related to mitochondrial dysfunction, forcing glycolysis to become the main source of energy metabolism of liver cells. Moreover, glycolysis is also enhanced to varying degrees in different liver diseases, especially in liver cancer. Therefore, targeting the glycolytic signaling pathway provides a new strategy for the treatment of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and liver fibrosis associated with liver cancer. Natural products regulate many steps of glycolysis, and targeting glycolysis with natural products is a promising cancer treatment. In this review, we have mainly illustrated the relationship between glycolysis and liver disease, natural products can work by targeting key enzymes in glycolysis and their associated proteins, so understanding how natural products regulate glycolysis can help clarify the therapeutic mechanisms these drugs use to inhibit liver disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shenghao Li
- Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
- Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Liyuan Hao
- Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
- Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
| | - Xiaoyu Hu
- Hospital of Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, China
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Ribeiro J, Lopes I, Gomes AC. A New Perspective for the Treatment of Alzheimer's Disease: Exosome-like Liposomes to Deliver Natural Compounds and RNA Therapies. Molecules 2023; 28:6015. [PMID: 37630268 PMCID: PMC10458935 DOI: 10.3390/molecules28166015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2023] [Revised: 07/28/2023] [Accepted: 08/01/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
With the increment of the aging population in recent years, neurodegenerative diseases exert a major global disease burden, essentially as a result of the lack of treatments that stop the disease progression. Alzheimer's Disease (AD) is an example of a neurodegenerative disease that affects millions of people globally, with no effective treatment. Natural compounds have emerged as a viable therapy to fill a huge gap in AD management, and in recent years, mostly fueled by the COVID-19 pandemic, RNA-based therapeutics have become a hot topic in the treatment of several diseases. Treatments of AD face significant limitations due to the complex and interconnected pathways that lead to their hallmarks and also due to the necessity to cross the blood-brain barrier. Nanotechnology has contributed to surpassing this bottleneck in the treatment of AD by promoting safe and enhanced drug delivery to the brain. In particular, exosome-like nanoparticles, a hybrid delivery system combining exosomes and liposomes' advantageous features, are demonstrating great potential in the treatment of central nervous system diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joana Ribeiro
- Centre of Molecular and Environmental Biology (CBMA)/Aquatic Research Network (ARNET) Associate Laboratory, Universidade do Minho, Campus de Gualtar, 4710-057 Braga, Portugal; (J.R.); (I.L.)
- Institute of Science and Innovation for Sustainability (IB-S), Universidade do Minho, Campus de Gualtar, 4710-057 Braga, Portugal
| | - Ivo Lopes
- Centre of Molecular and Environmental Biology (CBMA)/Aquatic Research Network (ARNET) Associate Laboratory, Universidade do Minho, Campus de Gualtar, 4710-057 Braga, Portugal; (J.R.); (I.L.)
| | - Andreia Castro Gomes
- Centre of Molecular and Environmental Biology (CBMA)/Aquatic Research Network (ARNET) Associate Laboratory, Universidade do Minho, Campus de Gualtar, 4710-057 Braga, Portugal; (J.R.); (I.L.)
- Institute of Science and Innovation for Sustainability (IB-S), Universidade do Minho, Campus de Gualtar, 4710-057 Braga, Portugal
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6
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Melo LFMD, Aquino-Martins VGDQ, Silva APD, Oliveira Rocha HA, Scortecci KC. Biological and pharmacological aspects of tannins and potential biotechnological applications. Food Chem 2023; 414:135645. [PMID: 36821920 DOI: 10.1016/j.foodchem.2023.135645] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2022] [Revised: 01/29/2023] [Accepted: 02/04/2023] [Indexed: 02/09/2023]
Abstract
Secondary metabolites are divided into three classes: phenolic, terpenoid, and nitrogenous compounds. Phenolic compounds are also known as polyphenols and include tannins, classified as hydrolysable or condensed. Herein, we explored tannins for their ROS reduction characteristics and role in homeostasis. These activities are associated with the numbers and degree of polymerisation of reactive hydroxyl groups present in the phenolic rings of tannins. These characteristics are associated with anti-inflammatory, anti-aging, and anti-proliferative health benefits. Tannins can reduce the risk of cancer and neurodegenerative diseases, such as cardiovascular diseases and Alzheimer's, respectively. These biomolecules may be used as nutraceuticals to maintain good gut microbiota. Industrial applications include providing durability to leather, anti-corrosive properties to metals, and substrates for 3D printing and in bio-based foam manufacture. This review updates regarding tannin-based research and highlights its biological and pharmacological relevance and potential applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luciana Fentanes Moura de Melo
- Departamento de Biologia Celular e Genética - Centro de Biociências, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Norte, Campus Universitário UFRN, 59072-970, Bairro Lagoa Nova, Natal, RN, Brazil; Programa de Pós-Graduação em Bioquímica e Biologia Molecular, Centro de Biociências, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Norte, Campus Universitário UFRN, 59078-970, Bairro Lagoa Nova, Natal, RN, Brazil
| | - Verônica Giuliani de Queiroz Aquino-Martins
- Departamento de Biologia Celular e Genética - Centro de Biociências, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Norte, Campus Universitário UFRN, 59072-970, Bairro Lagoa Nova, Natal, RN, Brazil; Programa de Pós-Graduação em Bioquímica e Biologia Molecular, Centro de Biociências, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Norte, Campus Universitário UFRN, 59078-970, Bairro Lagoa Nova, Natal, RN, Brazil
| | - Ariana Pereira da Silva
- Departamento de Biologia Celular e Genética - Centro de Biociências, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Norte, Campus Universitário UFRN, 59072-970, Bairro Lagoa Nova, Natal, RN, Brazil; Programa de Pós-Graduação em Bioquímica e Biologia Molecular, Centro de Biociências, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Norte, Campus Universitário UFRN, 59078-970, Bairro Lagoa Nova, Natal, RN, Brazil
| | - Hugo Alexandre Oliveira Rocha
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Bioquímica e Biologia Molecular, Centro de Biociências, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Norte, Campus Universitário UFRN, 59078-970, Bairro Lagoa Nova, Natal, RN, Brazil; Departamento de Bioquímica - Centro de Biociências, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Norte, Campus Universitário UFRN, 59078-970, Bairro Lagoa Nova, Natal, RN, Brazil
| | - Katia Castanho Scortecci
- Departamento de Biologia Celular e Genética - Centro de Biociências, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Norte, Campus Universitário UFRN, 59072-970, Bairro Lagoa Nova, Natal, RN, Brazil; Programa de Pós-Graduação em Bioquímica e Biologia Molecular, Centro de Biociências, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Norte, Campus Universitário UFRN, 59078-970, Bairro Lagoa Nova, Natal, RN, Brazil.
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Thakral S, Yadav A, Singh V, Kumar M, Kumar P, Narang R, Sudhakar K, Verma A, Khalilullah H, Jaremko M, Emwas AH. Alzheimer's disease: Molecular aspects and treatment opportunities using herbal drugs. Ageing Res Rev 2023; 88:101960. [PMID: 37224884 DOI: 10.1016/j.arr.2023.101960] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2023] [Revised: 05/12/2023] [Accepted: 05/19/2023] [Indexed: 05/26/2023]
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD), also called senile dementia, is the most common neurological disorder. Around 50 million people, mostly of advanced age, are suffering from dementia worldwide and this is expected to reach 100-130 million between 2040 and 2050. AD is characterized by impaired glutamatergic and cholinergic neurotransmission, which is associated with clinical and pathological symptoms. AD is characterized clinically by loss of cognition and memory impairment and pathologically by senile plaques formed by Amyloid β deposits or neurofibrillary tangles (NFT) consisting of aggregated tau proteins. Amyloid β deposits are responsible for glutamatergic dysfunction that develops NMDA dependent Ca2+ influx into postsynaptic neurons generating slow excitotoxicity process leading to oxidative stress and finally impaired cognition and neuronal loss. Amyloid decreases acetylcholine release, synthesis and neuronal transport. The decreased levels of neurotransmitter acetylcholine, neuronal loss, tau aggregation, amyloid β plaques, increased oxidative stress, neuroinflammation, bio-metal dyshomeostasis, autophagy, cell cycle dysregulation, mitochondrial dysfunction, and endoplasmic reticulum dysfunction are the factors responsible for the pathogenesis of AD. Acetylcholinesterase, NMDA, Glutamate, BACE1, 5HT6, and RAGE (Receptors for Advanced Glycation End products) are receptors targeted in treatment of AD. The FDA approved acetylcholinesterase inhibitors Donepezil, Galantamine and Rivastigmine and N-methyl-D-aspartate antagonist Memantine provide symptomatic relief. Different therapies such as amyloid β therapies, tau-based therapies, neurotransmitter-based therapies, autophagy-based therapies, multi-target therapeutic strategies, and gene therapy modify the natural course of the disease. Herbal and food intake is also important as preventive strategy and recently focus has also been placed on herbal drugs for treatment. This review focuses on the molecular aspects, pathogenesis and recent studies that signifies the potential of medicinal plants and their extracts or chemical constituents for the treatment of degenerative symptoms related to AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samridhi Thakral
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Guru Jambheshwar University of Science and Technology, Hisar 125001, Haryana, India
| | - Alka Yadav
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Guru Jambheshwar University of Science and Technology, Hisar 125001, Haryana, India
| | - Vikramjeet Singh
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Guru Jambheshwar University of Science and Technology, Hisar 125001, Haryana, India.
| | - Manoj Kumar
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Guru Jambheshwar University of Science and Technology, Hisar 125001, Haryana, India
| | - Pradeep Kumar
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Natural Products, Central University of Punjab, Bathinda 151401, Punjab, India
| | - Rakesh Narang
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Kurukshetra University, Kurukshetra 136119, Haryana, India
| | - Kalvatala Sudhakar
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Lovely Professional University, Phagwara, India
| | - Amita Verma
- Bioorganic and Medicinal Chemistry Research Laboratory, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Sam Higginbottom University of Agriculture, Technology and Sciences, Prayagraj 211007, India.
| | - Habibullah Khalilullah
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry and Pharmacognosy, Unaizah College of Pharmacy, Qassim University, Unayzah 51911, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mariusz Jaremko
- Smart-Health Initiative (SHI) and Red Sea Research Center (RSRC), Division of Biological and Environmental Sciences and Engineering (BESE), King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST), Thuwal 23955-6900, Saudi Arabia
| | - Abdul-Hamid Emwas
- Core Labs, King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST), Thuwal 23955-6900, Saudi Arabia
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Naidu SAG, Tripathi YB, Shree P, Clemens RA, Naidu AS. Phytonutrient Inhibitors of SARS-CoV-2/NSP5-Encoded Main Protease (M pro) Autocleavage Enzyme Critical for COVID-19 Pathogenesis. J Diet Suppl 2023; 20:284-311. [PMID: 34821532 DOI: 10.1080/19390211.2021.2006388] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
The genomic reshuffling, mutagenicity, and high transmission rate of the SARS-CoV-2 pathogen highlights an urgent need for effective antiviral interventions for COVID-19 control. Targeting the highly conserved viral genes and/or gene-encoded viral proteins such as main proteinase (Mpro), RNA-dependent RNA polymerase (RdRp) and helicases are plausible antiviral approaches to prevent replication and propagation of the SARS-CoV-2 infection. Coronaviruses (CoVs) are prone to extensive mutagenesis; however, any genetic alteration to its highly conserved Mpro enzyme is often detrimental to the viral pathogen. Therefore, inhibitors that target the Mpro enzyme could reduce the risk of mutation-mediated drug resistance and provide effective antiviral protection. Several existing antiviral drugs and dietary bioactives are currently repurposed to treat COVID-19. Dietary bioactives from three ayurvedic medicinal herbs, 18 β-glycyrrhetinic acid (ΔG = 8.86 kcal/mol), Solanocapsine (ΔG = 8.59 kcal/mol), and Vasicoline (ΔG = 7.34 kcal/mol), showed high-affinity binding to Mpro enzyme than the native N3 inhibitor (ΔG = 5.41 kcal/mol). Flavonoids strongly inhibited SARS-CoV-2 Mpro with comparable or higher potency than the antiviral drug, remdesivir. Several tannin hydrolysates avidly bound to the receptor-binding domain and catalytic dyad (His41 and Cys145) of SARS-CoV-2 Mpro through H-bonding forces. Quercetin binding to Mpro altered the thermostability of the viral protein through redox-based mechanism and inhibited the viral enzymatic activity. Interaction of quercetin-derivatives with the Mpro seem to be influenced by the 7-OH group and the acetoxylation of sugar moiety on the ligand molecule. Based on pharmacokinetic and ADMET profiles, several phytonutrients could serve as a promising redox nutraceutical for COVID-19 management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sreus A G Naidu
- N-terminus Research Laboratory, Yorba Linda, California, USA
| | - Yamini B Tripathi
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Institute of Medical Sciences, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, India
| | - Priya Shree
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Institute of Medical Sciences, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, India
| | - Roger A Clemens
- Department of International Regulatory Science, University of Southern California School of Pharmacy, Los Angeles, California, USA
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da Rosa MM, de Amorim LC, Alves JVDO, Aguiar IFDS, Oliveira FGDS, da Silva MV, dos Santos MTC. The promising role of natural products in Alzheimer's disease. BRAIN DISORDERS 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.dscb.2022.100049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/15/2022] Open
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10
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Tyler SEB, Tyler LDK. Therapeutic roles of plants for 15 hypothesised causal bases of Alzheimer's disease. NATURAL PRODUCTS AND BIOPROSPECTING 2022; 12:34. [PMID: 35996065 PMCID: PMC9395556 DOI: 10.1007/s13659-022-00354-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2022] [Accepted: 06/15/2022] [Indexed: 05/26/2023]
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is progressive and ultimately fatal, with current drugs failing to reverse and cure it. This study aimed to find plant species which may provide therapeutic bioactivities targeted to causal agents proposed to be driving AD. A novel toolkit methodology was employed, whereby clinical symptoms were translated into categories recognized in ethnomedicine. These categories were applied to find plant species with therapeutic effects, mined from ethnomedical surveys. Survey locations were mapped to assess how this data is at risk. Bioactivities were found of therapeutic relevance to 15 hypothesised causal bases for AD. 107 species with an ethnological report of memory improvement demonstrated therapeutic activity for all these 15 causal bases. The majority of the surveys were found to reside within biodiversity hotspots (centres of high biodiversity under threat), with loss of traditional knowledge the most common threat. Our findings suggest that the documented plants provide a large resource of AD therapeutic potential. In demonstrating bioactivities targeted to these causal bases, such plants may have the capacity to reduce or reverse AD, with promise as drug leads to target multiple AD hallmarks. However, there is a need to preserve ethnomedical knowledge, and the habitats on which this knowledge depends.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Luke D K Tyler
- School of Natural Sciences, Bangor University, Gwynedd, UK
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Zineb OY, Rashwan AK, Karim N, Lu Y, Tangpong J, Chen W. Recent Developments in Procyanidins on Metabolic Diseases, Their Possible Sources, Pharmacokinetic Profile, and Clinical Outcomes. FOOD REVIEWS INTERNATIONAL 2022. [DOI: 10.1080/87559129.2022.2062770] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Ould Yahia Zineb
- Department of Food Science and Nutrition, College of Biosystems Engineering and Food Science, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
- Ningbo Research Institute, Zhejiang University, Ningbo 315100, China
| | - Ahmed K. Rashwan
- Department of Food Science and Nutrition, College of Biosystems Engineering and Food Science, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
- Department of Food and Dairy Sciences, Faculty of Agriculture, South Valley University, Qena 83523, Egypt
| | - Naymul Karim
- Department of Food Science and Nutrition, College of Biosystems Engineering and Food Science, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Yang Lu
- Department of Food Science and Nutrition, College of Biosystems Engineering and Food Science, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Jitbanjong Tangpong
- Biomedical Sciences, School of Allied Health Sciences, Walailak University, Nakhon Si Thammarat 80161, Thailand
| | - Wei Chen
- Department of Food Science and Nutrition, College of Biosystems Engineering and Food Science, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
- Biomedical Sciences, School of Allied Health Sciences, Walailak University, Nakhon Si Thammarat 80161, Thailand
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Onaolapo OJ, Olofinnade AT, Ojo FO, Onaolapo AY. Neuroinflammation and Oxidative Stress in Alzheimer's Disease; Can Nutraceuticals and Functional Foods Come to the Rescue? Antiinflamm Antiallergy Agents Med Chem 2022; 21:75-89. [PMID: 36043770 DOI: 10.2174/1871523021666220815151559] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2022] [Revised: 06/17/2022] [Accepted: 06/29/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD), the most prevalent form of age-related dementia, is typified by progressive memory loss and spatial awareness with personality changes. The increasing socioeconomic burden associated with AD has made it a focus of extensive research. Ample scientific evidence supports the role of neuroinflammation and oxidative stress in AD pathophysiology, and there is increasing research into the possible role of anti-inflammatory and antioxidative agents as disease modifying therapies. While, the result of numerous preclinical studies has demonstrated the benefits of anti-inflammatory agents, these benefits however have not been replicated in clinical trials, necessitating a further search for more promising anti-inflammatory agents. Current understanding highlights the role of diet in the development of neuroinflammation and oxidative stress, as well as the importance of dietary interventions and lifestyle modifications in mitigating them. The current narrative review examines scientific literature for evidence of the roles (if any) of dietary components, nutraceuticals and functional foods in the prevention or management of AD. It also examines how diet/ dietary components could modulate oxidative stress/inflammatory mediators and pathways that are crucial to the pathogenesis and/or progression of AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olakunle J Onaolapo
- Department of Pharmacology, Behavioural Neuroscience Unit, Neuropharmacology Subdivision, Ladoke Akintola University of Technology, Ogbomoso, Oyo State, Nigeria
| | - Anthony T Olofinnade
- Department of Pharmacology, Therapeutics and Toxicology, Faculty of Basic Clinical Sciences, College of Medicine, Lagos State University, Ikeja, Lagos State, Nigeria
| | - Folusho O Ojo
- Department of Anatomy, Ladoke Akintola University of Technology, Ogbomoso, Oyo State, Nigeria
| | - Adejoke Y Onaolapo
- Department of Anatomy, Behavioural Neuroscience Unit, Neurobiology Subdivision, Ladoke Akintola University of Technology, Ogbomoso, Oyo State, Nigeria
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Giovannini J, Smeralda W, Jouanne M, Sopkova-de Oliveira Santos J, Catto M, Sophie Voisin-Chiret A. Tau protein aggregation: key features to improve drug discovery screening. Drug Discov Today 2022; 27:1284-1297. [DOI: 10.1016/j.drudis.2022.01.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2021] [Revised: 11/29/2021] [Accepted: 01/20/2022] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
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Ruan W, Shen S, Xu Y, Ran N, Zhang H. Mechanistic insights into procyanidins as therapies for Alzheimer's disease: A review. J Funct Foods 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jff.2021.104683] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
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Xu QQ, Shaw PC, Hu Z, Yang W, Ip SP, Xian YF, Lin ZX. Comparison of the chemical constituents and anti-Alzheimer's disease effects of Uncaria rhynchophylla and Uncaria tomentosa. Chin Med 2021; 16:110. [PMID: 34706756 PMCID: PMC8555092 DOI: 10.1186/s13020-021-00514-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2021] [Accepted: 10/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Uncaria tomentosa, which has similar chemical constituents with Uncaria rhynchophylla, has been reported to alleviate cognitive impairments in Alzheimer's disease (AD) animal models. This study aimed to compare the chemical constituents and anti-AD effect of the ethanol extracts of U. tomentosa (UTE) and U. rhynchophylla (URE). METHODS The high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) was used to compare the chemical constituents of UTE and URE. Streptozotocin (STZ) was intracerebroventricularly (ICV) injected into adult male Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats to establish AD model. UTE (400 mg/kg) or URE (400 mg/kg) was administrated intragastrically once daily to the rats for 6 consecutive weeks. Morris water maze (MWM) test was conducted to assess the neurological functions in the STZ-induced AD rats. The brain tissues of the rats were harvested for further biochemical assay. RESULTS The MWM test results showed both UTE and URE could significantly improve the learning and memory impairments induced by STZ in rats. Both UTE and URE could significantly inhibit the hyperphosphorylation of tau protein, reduce the elevated levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-1β, IL-6 and TNF-α), enhance activities of antioxidant enzymes (SOD, CAT and GPx) and increase the protein expression of HO-1. In addition, UTE could decrease the malondialdehyde (MDA) level. Furthermore, both UTE and URE significantly enhanced Akt activation, down regulated the activation of glycogen synthase kinase 3β (GSK-3β), and induced the nuclear translocation of Nrf2 in the STZ-induced AD rats. CONCLUSIONS UTE and URE contained similar chemical constituents. We found for the first time that both of them could ameliorate cognitive deficits in the STZ-induced AD rats. The underlying molecular mechanism involve suppression of tau hyperphosphorylation, anti-oxidant and anti-neuroinflammation via modulating Akt (Ser473)/GSK3β (Ser9)-mediated Nrf2 activation. These findings amply implicate that both of UTE and URE are worthy of being developed clinically into pharmaceutical treatment for AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qing-Qing Xu
- School of Chinese Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, N.T., Hong Kong SAR, People’s Republic of China
| | - Pang Chui Shaw
- School of Life Sciences, Faculty of Science, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, N.T., Hong Kong SAR, People’s Republic of China
- Li Dak Sum Yip Yio Chin R&D Centre for Chinese Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, N.T., Hong Kong SAR, People’s Republic of China
| | - Zhen Hu
- School of Chinese Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, N.T., Hong Kong SAR, People’s Republic of China
| | - Wen Yang
- School of Chinese Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, N.T., Hong Kong SAR, People’s Republic of China
| | - Siu-Po Ip
- School of Chinese Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, N.T., Hong Kong SAR, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yan-Fang Xian
- School of Chinese Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, N.T., Hong Kong SAR, People’s Republic of China
| | - Zhi-Xiu Lin
- School of Chinese Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, N.T., Hong Kong SAR, People’s Republic of China
- Li Dak Sum Yip Yio Chin R&D Centre for Chinese Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, N.T., Hong Kong SAR, People’s Republic of China
- Hong Kong Institute of Integrative Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Shatin, N.T., Hong Kong SAR, People’s Republic of China
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Sallaberry CA, Voss BJ, Majewski J, Biernat J, Mandelkow E, Chi EY, Vander Zanden CM. Tau and Membranes: Interactions That Promote Folding and Condensation. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:725241. [PMID: 34621743 PMCID: PMC8491580 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.725241] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2021] [Accepted: 08/31/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Tau misfolding and assembly is linked to a number of neurodegenerative diseases collectively described as tauopathies, including Alzheimer’s disease (AD) and Parkinson’s disease. Anionic cellular membranes, such as the cytosolic leaflet of the plasma membrane, are sites that concentrate and neutralize tau, primarily due to electrostatic interactions with tau’s microtubule binding repeat domain (RD). In addition to electrostatic interactions with lipids, tau also has interactions with membrane proteins, which are important for tau’s cellular functions. Tau also interacts with lipid tails to facilitate direct translocation across the membrane and can form stable protein-lipid complexes involved in cell-to-cell transport. Concentrated tau monomers at the membrane surface can form reversible condensates, change secondary structures, and induce oligomers, which may eventually undergo irreversible crosslinking and fibril formation. These β-sheet rich tau structures are capable of disrupting membrane organization and are toxic in cell-based assays. Given the evidence for relevant membrane-based tau assembly, we review the emerging hypothesis that polyanionic membranes may serve as a site for phase-separated tau condensation. Membrane-mediated phase separation may have important implications for regulating tau folding/misfolding, and may be a powerful mechanism to spatially direct tau for native membrane-mediated functions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chad A Sallaberry
- Department of Chemistry & Biochemistry, University of Colorado Colorado Springs, Colorado Springs, CO, United States
| | - Barbie J Voss
- Department of Chemistry & Biochemistry, University of Colorado Colorado Springs, Colorado Springs, CO, United States
| | - Jaroslaw Majewski
- Division of Molecular and Cellular Biosciences, National Science Foundation, Alexandria, VA, United States.,Department of Chemical & Biological Engineering, Center for Biomedical Engineering, The University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, NM, United States.,Theoretical Biology and Biophysics Division, Los Alamos National Laboratory, Los Alamos, NM, United States
| | - Jacek Biernat
- German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE), Bonn, Germany
| | - Eckhard Mandelkow
- German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE), Bonn, Germany.,Center of Advanced European Studies and Research (CAESAR) Center, Bonn, Germany.,Department of Neurodegenerative Disease and Geriatric Psychiatry, Medical School, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Eva Y Chi
- Department of Chemical & Biological Engineering, Center for Biomedical Engineering, The University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, NM, United States
| | - Crystal M Vander Zanden
- Department of Chemistry & Biochemistry, University of Colorado Colorado Springs, Colorado Springs, CO, United States
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Rezaee N, Fernando WB, Hone E, Sohrabi HR, Johnson SK, Gunzburg S, Martins RN. Potential of Sorghum Polyphenols to Prevent and Treat Alzheimer's Disease: A Review Article. Front Aging Neurosci 2021; 13:729949. [PMID: 34690742 PMCID: PMC8527926 DOI: 10.3389/fnagi.2021.729949] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2021] [Accepted: 08/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is characterized by the excessive deposition of extracellular amyloid-beta peptide (Aβ) and the build-up of intracellular neurofibrillary tangles containing hyperphosphorylated tau proteins. This leads to neuronal damage, cell death and consequently results in memory and learning impairments leading to dementia. Although the exact cause of AD is not yet clear, numerous studies indicate that oxidative stress, inflammation, and mitochondrial dysfunction significantly contribute to its onset and progression. There is no effective therapeutic approach to stop the progression of AD and its associated symptoms. Thus, early intervention, preferably, pre-clinically when the brain is not significantly affected, is a better option for effective treatment. Natural polyphenols (PP) target multiple AD-related pathways such as protecting the brain from Aβ and tau neurotoxicity, ameliorating oxidative damage and mitochondrial dysfunction. Among natural products, the cereal crop sorghum has some unique features. It is one of the major global grain crops but in the developed world, it is primarily used as feed for farm animals. A broad range of PP, including phenolic acids, flavonoids, and condensed tannins are present in sorghum grain including some classes such as proanthocyanidins that are rarely found in others plants. Pigmented varieties of sorghum have the highest polyphenolic content and antioxidant activity which potentially makes their consumption beneficial for human health through different pathways such as oxidative stress reduction and thus the prevention and treatment of neurodegenerative diseases. This review summarizes the potential of sorghum PP to beneficially affect the neuropathology of AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nasim Rezaee
- Centre of Excellence for Alzheimer’s Disease Research & Care, School of Medical and Health Sciences, Edith Cowan University, Joondalup, WA, Australia
| | - W.M.A.D. Binosha Fernando
- Centre of Excellence for Alzheimer’s Disease Research & Care, School of Medical and Health Sciences, Edith Cowan University, Joondalup, WA, Australia
| | - Eugene Hone
- Centre of Excellence for Alzheimer’s Disease Research & Care, School of Medical and Health Sciences, Edith Cowan University, Joondalup, WA, Australia
| | - Hamid R. Sohrabi
- Centre of Excellence for Alzheimer’s Disease Research & Care, School of Medical and Health Sciences, Edith Cowan University, Joondalup, WA, Australia
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, NSW, Australia
- Centre for Healthy Ageing, Health Future Institute, Murdoch University, Murdoch, WA, Australia
| | - Stuart K. Johnson
- School of Molecular and Life Sciences, Faculty of Science and Engineering, Curtin University, Perth, WA, Australia
- Ingredients by Design Pty Ltd., Lesmurdie, WA, Australia
| | | | - Ralph N. Martins
- Centre of Excellence for Alzheimer’s Disease Research & Care, School of Medical and Health Sciences, Edith Cowan University, Joondalup, WA, Australia
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, NSW, Australia
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Li Q, Xiong C, Liu H, Ge H, Yao X, Liu H. Computational Insights Into the Inhibition Mechanism of Proanthocyanidin B2 on Tau Hexapeptide (PHF6) Oligomer. Front Chem 2021; 9:666043. [PMID: 34336783 PMCID: PMC8316602 DOI: 10.3389/fchem.2021.666043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2021] [Accepted: 04/14/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The formation of amyloid fibrils from Tau is a key pathogenic feature of Alzheimer's disease (AD). To disturb the formation of Tau aggregates is considered as a promising therapeutic strategy for AD. Recently, a natural product proanthocyanidin B2 (PB2) was confirmed to not only inhibit Tau aggregation, but also disaggregate Tau fibrils. Herein, to explore the inhibition mechanism of PB2 against Tau fibril and to provide the useful information for drug design and discovery, all-atom molecular dynamics simulations were carried out for the ordered Tau hexapeptide PHF6 oligomer in the presence and absence of PB2. The obtained result shows that PB2 can transform PHF6 oligomer from the ordered β-sheet structure into disordered one. Moreover, the clustering analysis and binding free energy calculations identify that S3 site is the most potential binding site. At S3 site, by hydrophobic and hydrogen bond interactions, the residues V309, Y310 and K311 are essential for binding with PB2, especially K311. In a word, our study reveals the molecular mechanism of PB2 inhibiting PHF6 aggregation and it will provide some valuable information for the development of Tau aggregation inhibitors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qin Li
- School of Pharmacy, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China
| | - Chunmei Xiong
- School of Pharmacy, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China
| | - Hongli Liu
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of New Drug Research and Clinical Pharmacy, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, China
| | - Huizhen Ge
- State Key Laboratory of Applied Organic Chemistry and Department of Chemistry, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China
| | - Xiaojun Yao
- State Key Laboratory of Applied Organic Chemistry and Department of Chemistry, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China
| | - Huanxiang Liu
- School of Pharmacy, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou, China
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Hügel HM, de Silva NH, Siddiqui A, Blanch E, Lingham A. Natural spirocyclic alkaloids and polyphenols as multi target dementia leads. Bioorg Med Chem 2021; 43:116270. [PMID: 34153839 DOI: 10.1016/j.bmc.2021.116270] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2021] [Revised: 05/25/2021] [Accepted: 06/04/2021] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
The U rhynchophylla, U tomentosa, Isatis indigotica Fortune, Voacanga Africana, herbal constituents, fungal extracts from Aspergillus duricaulis culture media, include spirooxindoles, polyphenols or bridged spirocyclic alkaloids. Their constituents exhibit specific and synergistic multiple neuroprotective properties including inhibiting of Aβ fibril induced cytotoxicity, NMDA receptor inhibition in mice models of Alzheimer's disease (AD). The pioneering research from Woodward to Waldmann has advanced the synthesis of spirocyclic alkaloids. Furthermore, the elucidation of the genetic analysis, biochemical pathways that links strictosidine to the alkaloids akuammicine, stemmadenine, tabersonine, catharanthine, will now enable the biotechnological generation, also stimulate synthesis of related bridged spirocyclic alkaloids for medicinal investigations. From the value of spirocyclic structures as multi target dementia leads, we hypothesise that simpler Lipinski-like natural/synthetic alkaloid analogues may likewise be discovered that provide neurocognitive enhancing activities against dementia and AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Helmut M Hügel
- Applied Chemistry & Environmental Science, School of Science, RMIT University, GPO Box 2476, Melbourne, VIC 3001, Australia.
| | - Nilamuni H de Silva
- Applied Chemistry & Environmental Science, School of Science, RMIT University, GPO Box 2476, Melbourne, VIC 3001, Australia
| | - Aimen Siddiqui
- Applied Chemistry & Environmental Science, School of Science, RMIT University, GPO Box 2476, Melbourne, VIC 3001, Australia
| | - Ewan Blanch
- Applied Chemistry & Environmental Science, School of Science, RMIT University, GPO Box 2476, Melbourne, VIC 3001, Australia
| | - Anthony Lingham
- Applied Chemistry & Environmental Science, School of Science, RMIT University, GPO Box 2476, Melbourne, VIC 3001, Australia
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Sustained-Release Hydrogel-Based Rhynchophylline Delivery System Improved Injured Tendon Repair. Colloids Surf B Biointerfaces 2021; 205:111876. [PMID: 34087778 DOI: 10.1016/j.colsurfb.2021.111876] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2021] [Revised: 04/25/2021] [Accepted: 05/19/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
During the injured flexor tendon healing process, tendon tissue is easy to form extremely dense adhesion with the surrounding tissue, which causes the serious influence of hand function recovery. Uncaria is widely used in clinic and its main composition, Rhynchophylline (Rhy), has been reported on its good therapeutic effect, which could effectively inhibit the intra-abdominal adhesion formation. However, the therapeutic effect of Rhy on tendon healing and adhesion formation is still unclear. Due to the short half-life of Rhy, hyaluronic acid (HA) sustained-release system for Rhy delivery was constructed and it could also avoid drug from the undesired loss during the transit. After Rhy delivery system was applied around the injured tendons, adhesion formation, gliding function and healing strength of tendons were evaluated. Our results showed that the gliding excursion and healing strength of repaired tendons were both significantly increased, as well as the adhesion was inhibited. From in vivo experiments, Rhy could be able to increase the expression of Col Ⅰ/Col Ⅲ and helped fibroblasts to ordered organization for tendon tissues. But for adhesion tissues, Rhy promoted the apoptosis and accelerated the degradation of extracellular matrix. In vitro study showed Rhy could help tenocytes stimulated with TGF-β1 to recover to normal cell functions involving cell proliferation and apoptosis level. Through high-throughput sequencing, we found that Rhy was involved in the regulation of Extracellular Matrix (ECM) signaling pathway. We draw a conclusion that Rhy enhanced the tendon healing and prevented adhesion formation through inhibiting the phosphorylation of Smad2. In a word, this sustained release system of Rhy may be a promising strategy for the treatment of injured tendons.
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Gregory J, Vengalasetti YV, Bredesen DE, Rao RV. Neuroprotective Herbs for the Management of Alzheimer's Disease. Biomolecules 2021; 11:biom11040543. [PMID: 33917843 PMCID: PMC8068256 DOI: 10.3390/biom11040543] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2021] [Revised: 04/01/2021] [Accepted: 04/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Background—Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a multifactorial, progressive, neurodegenerative disease that is characterized by memory loss, personality changes, and a decline in cognitive function. While the exact cause of AD is still unclear, recent studies point to lifestyle, diet, environmental, and genetic factors as contributors to disease progression. The pharmaceutical approaches developed to date do not alter disease progression. More than two hundred promising drug candidates have failed clinical trials in the past decade, suggesting that the disease and its causes may be highly complex. Medicinal plants and herbal remedies are now gaining more interest as complementary and alternative interventions and are a valuable source for developing drug candidates for AD. Indeed, several scientific studies have described the use of various medicinal plants and their principal phytochemicals for the treatment of AD. This article reviews a subset of herbs for their anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and cognitive-enhancing effects. Methods—This article systematically reviews recent studies that have investigated the role of neuroprotective herbs and their bioactive compounds for dementia associated with Alzheimer’s disease and pre-Alzheimer’s disease. PubMed Central, Scopus, and Google Scholar databases of articles were collected, and abstracts were reviewed for relevance to the subject matter. Conclusions—Medicinal plants have great potential as part of an overall program in the prevention and treatment of cognitive decline associated with AD. It is hoped that these medicinal plants can be used in drug discovery programs for identifying safe and efficacious small molecules for AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julie Gregory
- Apollo Health, P.O. Box 117040, Burlingame, CA 94011, USA;
| | | | - Dale E. Bredesen
- Apollo Health, P.O. Box 117040, Burlingame, CA 94011, USA;
- Department of Molecular and Medical Pharmacology, University of California, Los Angeles, CA 90024, USA
- Correspondence: (D.E.B.); (R.V.R.)
| | - Rammohan V. Rao
- Apollo Health, P.O. Box 117040, Burlingame, CA 94011, USA;
- California College of Ayurveda, 700 Zion Street, Nevada City, CA 95959, USA
- Correspondence: (D.E.B.); (R.V.R.)
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Kolodziejczyk-Czepas J, Ponczek M, Sady-Janczak M, Pilarski R, Bukowska B. Extracts from Uncaria tomentosa as antiplatelet agents and thrombin inhibitors - The in vitro and in silico study. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2021; 267:113494. [PMID: 33091497 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2020.113494] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2020] [Revised: 09/23/2020] [Accepted: 10/16/2020] [Indexed: 05/26/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE A wide range of traditional medicine applications of Uncaria tomentosa (Willd. ex Schult.) DC., commonly known as 'vilcacora' or 'cat's claw', includes blood purification, its anticoagulant properties and its use in haemorrhage therapy. AIM OF THE STUDY Our work is devoted to the effects of ethanol and aqueous extracts (1-50 μg/ml) from U. tomentosa leaves and bark on the haemostatic system. The study is based on two main questions: Can these extracts influence the coagulation cascade of blood plasma or the activation of blood platelets? Do they feature any anticoagulant properties? MATERIALS AND METHODS Blood platelet aggregation was measured in human platelet-rich plasma; the anticoagulant tests were based on the thrombin, prothrombin and the activated partial thromboplastin time. For the thrombin (TH)-inhibitory activity evaluation, the chromogenic substrate S-2238 and fibrinogen, i.e. physiological substrate for this enzyme, were used. In silico studies included the interactions of TH and the main components of the extracts. RESULTS The examined extracts demonstrated slight antiplatelet activity. The thrombin time was slightly prolonged. The most efficient TH inhibitor was the ethanolic fraction from leaves (IC50 = 5.86 and 12.48 μg/ml, for the amidolytic and proteolytic assay, respectively). The plant ingredients interacted with TH within and outside the active site, dependently on the compound. The higher binding affinity was found for procyanidins B2 and C1. CONCLUSIONS The examined extracts demonstrated slight antiplatelet effects; however, they may be promising candidates for the natural inhibitors of TH, which is critical for the formation of fibrin clot.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joanna Kolodziejczyk-Czepas
- University of Lodz, Faculty of Biology and Environmental Protection, Department of General Biochemistry, 141/143 Pomorska St., 90-236, Lodz, Poland.
| | - Michał Ponczek
- University of Lodz, Faculty of Biology and Environmental Protection, Department of General Biochemistry, 141/143 Pomorska St., 90-236, Lodz, Poland
| | - Magdalena Sady-Janczak
- University of Lodz, Faculty of Biology and Environmental Protection, Department of General Biochemistry, 141/143 Pomorska St., 90-236, Lodz, Poland
| | - Radosław Pilarski
- Polish Academy of Sciences, Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry, Noskowskiego 12/14 Str., 61-704, Poznań, Poland
| | - Bożena Bukowska
- University of Lodz, Faculty of Biology and Environmental Protection, Department of Biophysics of Environmental Pollution, 141/143 Pomorska St., 90-236, Lodz, Poland
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In vitro comparison of major memory-support dietary supplements for their effectiveness in reduction/inhibition of beta-amyloid protein fibrils and tau protein tangles: key primary targets for memory loss. Sci Rep 2021; 11:3001. [PMID: 33589649 PMCID: PMC7884837 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-79275-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2020] [Accepted: 12/02/2020] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Memory loss is primarily caused by the accumulation of both brain plaques [(consisting of beta-amyloid protein (Aβ) 1–42)] and neurofibrillary tangles (consisting of paired helical and straight filaments containing tau protein). Neuroinflammation is the third key and important factor that leads to accelerated memory loss and eventual dementia. Brain plaques, tangles and inflammation is the trilogy mainly responsible for causing memory loss that has now been documented for over 20 years in the scientific literature. The present investigation used in vitro quantitative methods to directly compare the ability of major memory-support dietary supplements to reduce pre-formed Aβ 1–42 fibrils (21 supplements tested) and tau protein paired helical/straight filaments (13 supplements tested)—two of the three most important targets for memory loss. Additionally, 18 different manufacturers of cat’s claw (Uncaria tomentosa) were directly compared for their ability to inhibit/reduce Aβ 1–42 fibrils and/or tau paired helical/straight filaments based on recent findings that PTI-00703 cat’s claw is a specific and potent inhibitor/reducer of all three targets -brain plaques, tangles and inflammation (Snow et al. in Sci Rep 9:561, 2019). In the present investigation quantitative Thioflavin T fluorometry was used on a comparative weight-to-weight basis at increasing concentrations with ingredients tested from the actual capsules the consumer ingests. Major memory-support dietary supplements were directly compared for their ability to inhibit and disaggregate/reduce both Aβ 1–42 fibrils and/or tau paired helical/straight filaments. Dietary supplements touted to enhance memory comparatively tested included Prevagen, FOCUSfactor, PROCERA AVH, Alpha Brain, NAD+OVIM, BRAIN JUICE, Cebria, EXCELEROL, NOOCUBE, US Doctor’s Clinical Brain Power ADVANCED, healthycell pro, LUMONOL, Brain Awake, BRAIN ARMOR, brainMD (BRAIN & MEMORY POWER BOOST), Brain Support, Clarity (BRAIN HEALTH FORMULA), brainMD (NEUROVITE PLUS), neuriva (Original and Plus) and percepta. This is the first paper to actually comparatively test these memory-support supplements for their ability to reduce Aβ fibrils and tau protein tangles. Percepta (PTI-00703 cat’s claw and a specific oolong tea extract) was determined to be the most effective and potent memory support dietary supplement to disaggregate/disrupt Aβ 1–42 fibrils (range of 25–89%) and tau paired helical/straight filaments (range of 26–86%) at all 3–4 doses tested in comparison to other major memory-support dietary supplements tested. This was at least more than double (> 50%) for percepta reducing Aβ 1–42 fibrils and in comparison to the other 20 memory-support dietary supplements tested. The ranking order for memory-support supplement effects based on reducing Aβ 1–42 fibrils (Aβ 1–42: memory-support supplement at 1:0.1 weight-to-weight in a 3-day study) was percepta (69.6% reduction) >>> Alpha Brain (34.9% reduction) = US Doctor’s Clinical Brain Power ADVANCED (32.4%) = BRAIN JUICE (30.1%) = neuriva Plus (27%) = neuriva Original (27%) > NEUROVITE PLUS (22.9%) = NOOCUBE (19.9%) = EXCELEROL (17.3%) = healthycell pro (17.2%) > Prevagen (12.9%) > PROCERA AVH (6.5%) = FOCUSfactor (5.5%) > Cebria (0%) = Brain Awake (0%) = Brain Support (0%) = brainMD (BRAIN & MEMORY POWER BOOST) (0%) = NAD+OVIM (0%) = BRAIN ARMOR (0%) = LUMONOL (0%). The ranking order for memory support supplement effects on reducing tau paired helical/straight filaments (tau:memory supplement at 1:1 weight-to-weight at 3 days) was percepta (85.7% reduction) >>> neuriva Plus (57.9%) >> BRAIN JUICE (41.9%) = EXCELEROL (41.0%) = neuriva Original (38.4%) = US Doctor’s Clinical Brain Power ADVANCED (38.3%) = healthycell pro (37.6%) >> Alpha Brain (27.9%) >> NOOCUBE (17.6%) >> FOCUSfactor (8.7%) > Cebria (3.6%) = PROCERA AVH (0%) = Prevagen (0%). Congo red staining, Thioflavin S fluorescence, circular dichroism (CD) spectroscopy and electron microscopy confirmed the positive results observed with the supplement percepta. CD spectroscopy demonstrated that percepta caused a marked inhibition of beta-sheet secondary folding of tau protein into paired helical filaments. PTI-00703 cat’s claw (main ingredient in percepta) was also identified as the most potent cat’s claw bark powder (Uncaria tomentosa) to reduce and inhibit Aβ 1–42 fibrils and tau tangles in comparison to 17 other manufacturers of cat’s claw extracts. Although there are thousands of brain memory-support dietary supplements in the marketplace today, none of them have been directly compared and analyzed for their ability to reduce and/or inhibit two major targets of memory loss i.e. Aβ 1–42 fibrils and tau paired helical/straight filaments (major constituents of brain plaques and tangles). In our comparison studies, we show that percepta has the most potent ability to disaggregate/reduce Aβ 1–42 fibrils and tau protein paired helical/straight filaments as demonstrated by a variety of methods most likely due to the specific polyphenol content in PTI-00703 cat’s claw (i.e. polyphenols and proanthocyanidins) as we have previously shown (Snow et al. in Sci Rep 9:561, 2019). Memory-support dietary supplements tested that also contained polyphenols and/or cat’s claw in their product demonstrated some Aβ fibril and tau protein tangle reducing activity, but were much less effective than percepta. Percepta’s main ingredient, PTI-00703 cat’s claw, has previously been shown to reduce brain amyloid plaques and Aβ 1–42/40 insoluble/soluble levels in brain (in plaque-producing transgenic mice) with marked concurrent memory improvements (shown by Morris water maze testing) (Snow et al. in Sci Rep 9:561, 2019). The present investigation further confirms that percepta is one of the best dietary supplements that causes a marked reduction and inhibition of Aβ fibrils and tau tangle filaments -two important major targets for memory-support. In addition, PTI-00703 cat’s claw was the most effective cat’s claw (Uncaria tomentosa) ingredient for reducing /disaggregating and inhibiting Aβ 1–42 fibrils and tau protein paired helical/straight filaments in comparison to 17 other manufacturers of cat’s claw extracts tested.
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Liang JH, Wang C, Huo XK, Tian XG, Zhao WY, Wang X, Sun CP, Ma XC. The genus Uncaria: A review on phytochemical metabolites and biological aspects. Fitoterapia 2020; 147:104772. [PMID: 33152463 DOI: 10.1016/j.fitote.2020.104772] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2020] [Revised: 10/03/2020] [Accepted: 10/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
The genus Uncaira (Rubiaceae) comprises of 34 species, many of which are usually used as traditional Chinese medicines (TCMs) to treat hypertension, fever, headache, gastrointestinal illness, and fungal infection. Over the past twenty years, Uncaira species have been paid the considerable attentions in phytochemical and biological aspects, and about 100 new secondary metabolites, including alkaloids, triterpenes, and flavonoids, have been elucidated. This review aims to present a comprehensive and up-to date overview of the biological source, structures and their biosynthetic pathways, as well as the pharmacological of the compounds reported in the genus Uncaria for the past two decades. It would provide an insight into the emerging pharmacological applications of the genus Uncaria.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jia-Hao Liang
- College of Pharmacy, College of Integrative Medicine, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China; Dalian Key Laboratory of Metabolic Target Characterization and Traditional Chinese Medicine Intervention, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China
| | - Chao Wang
- College of Pharmacy, College of Integrative Medicine, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China; Dalian Key Laboratory of Metabolic Target Characterization and Traditional Chinese Medicine Intervention, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China
| | - Xiao-Kui Huo
- College of Pharmacy, College of Integrative Medicine, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China; Dalian Key Laboratory of Metabolic Target Characterization and Traditional Chinese Medicine Intervention, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China
| | - Xiang-Ge Tian
- College of Pharmacy, College of Integrative Medicine, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China; Dalian Key Laboratory of Metabolic Target Characterization and Traditional Chinese Medicine Intervention, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China
| | - Wen-Yu Zhao
- College of Pharmacy, College of Integrative Medicine, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China; Dalian Key Laboratory of Metabolic Target Characterization and Traditional Chinese Medicine Intervention, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China
| | - Xun Wang
- Department of Neurosurgery, The Third People's Hospital of Dalian, Non-Directly Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China
| | - Cheng-Peng Sun
- College of Pharmacy, College of Integrative Medicine, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China; Dalian Key Laboratory of Metabolic Target Characterization and Traditional Chinese Medicine Intervention, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China.
| | - Xiao-Chi Ma
- College of Pharmacy, College of Integrative Medicine, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China; Dalian Key Laboratory of Metabolic Target Characterization and Traditional Chinese Medicine Intervention, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China.
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Yepes-Pérez AF, Herrera-Calderon O, Quintero-Saumeth J. Uncaria tomentosa (cat's claw): a promising herbal medicine against SARS-CoV-2/ACE-2 junction and SARS-CoV-2 spike protein based on molecular modeling. J Biomol Struct Dyn 2020; 40:2227-2243. [PMID: 33118480 PMCID: PMC7657399 DOI: 10.1080/07391102.2020.1837676] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/04/2022]
Abstract
COVID-19 is a novel severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus. Currently, there is no effective treatment and vaccines seem to be the solution in the future. Virtual screening of potential drugs against the S protein of severe acute respiratory syndrome corona virus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) has provided small molecular compounds with a high binding affinity. Unfortunately, most of these drugs do not attach with the binding interface of the receptor-binding domain (RBD)–angiotensin-converting enzyme-2 (ACE-2) complex in host cells. Molecular modeling was carried out to evaluate the potential antiviral properties of the components of the medicinal herb Uncaria tomentosa (cat’s claw) focusing on the binding interface of the RBD–ACE-2 and the viral spike protein. The in silico approach starts with protein–ligand docking of 26 Cat’s claw key components followed by molecular dynamics simulations and re-docked calculations. Finally, we carried out drug-likeness calculations for the most qualified cat’s claw components. The structural bioinformatics approaches led to the identification of several bioactive compounds of U. tomentosa with potential therapeutic effect by dual strong interaction with interface of the RBD–ACE-2 and the ACE-2 binding site on SARS-CoV-2 RBD viral spike. In addition, in silico drug-likeness indices for these components were calculated and showed good predicted therapeutic profiles of these phytochemicals found in U. tomentosa (cat’s claw). Our findings suggest the potential effectiveness of cat’s claw as complementary and/or alternative medicine for COVID-19 treatment. Communicated by Ramaswamy H. Sarma
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Affiliation(s)
- Andres F Yepes-Pérez
- Chemistry of Colombian Plants, Institute of Chemistry, Faculty of Exact and Natural Sciences, University of Antioquia-UdeA, Medellin, Colombia
| | - Oscar Herrera-Calderon
- Academic Department of Pharmacology Bromatology and Toxicology,Faculty of Pharmacy and Biochemistry, Universidad Nacional Mayor de San Marcos, Lima, Peru
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Liu G, Shi A, Wang N, Li M, He X, Yin C, Tu Q, Shen X, Tao Y, Wang Q, Yin H. Polyphenolic Proanthocyanidin-B2 suppresses proliferation of liver cancer cells and hepatocellular carcinogenesis through directly binding and inhibiting AKT activity. Redox Biol 2020; 37:101701. [PMID: 32863234 PMCID: PMC7472926 DOI: 10.1016/j.redox.2020.101701] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2020] [Revised: 08/18/2020] [Accepted: 08/19/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The well-documented anticarcinogenic properties of natural polyphenolic proanthocyanidins (OPC) have been primarily attributed to their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory potency. Emerging evidence suggests that OPC may target canonical oncogenic pathways, including PI3K/AKT; however, the underlying mechanism and therapeutic potential remain elusive. Here we identify that proanthocyanidin B2 (OPC-B2) directly binds and inhibits AKT activity and downstream signalling, thereby suppressing tumour cell proliferation and metabolism in vitro and in a xenograft and diethyl-nitrosamine (DEN)-induced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) mouse models. We further find that OPC-B2 binds to the catalytic and regulatory PH domains to lock the protein in a closed conformation, similar to the well-studied AKT allosteric inhibitor MK-2206. Molecular docking and dynamic simulation suggest that Lys297 and Arg86 are critical sites of OPC-B2 binding; mutation of Lys297 or Arg86 to alanine completely abolishes the antitumor effects of OPC-B2 but not MK-2206. Together, our study reveals that OPC-B2 is a novel allosteric AKT inhibitor with potent anti-tumour efficacy beyond its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guijun Liu
- CAS Key Laboratory of Nutrition, Metabolism and Food Safety, Shanghai Institute of Nutrition and Health (SINH), Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS), Shanghai, 200031, China; University of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, CAS, Beijing, China
| | - Aimin Shi
- Institute of Food Science and Technology, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences (CAAS), Beijing, 100193, China
| | - Ningning Wang
- CAS Key Laboratory of Nutrition, Metabolism and Food Safety, Shanghai Institute of Nutrition and Health (SINH), Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS), Shanghai, 200031, China; University of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, CAS, Beijing, China
| | - Min Li
- CAS Key Laboratory of Nutrition, Metabolism and Food Safety, Shanghai Institute of Nutrition and Health (SINH), Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS), Shanghai, 200031, China; University of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, CAS, Beijing, China
| | - Xuxiao He
- CAS Key Laboratory of Nutrition, Metabolism and Food Safety, Shanghai Institute of Nutrition and Health (SINH), Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS), Shanghai, 200031, China; University of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, CAS, Beijing, China
| | - Chunzhao Yin
- University of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, CAS, Beijing, China; School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, 201210, China
| | - Qiaochu Tu
- University of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, CAS, Beijing, China; School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, 201210, China
| | - Xia Shen
- University of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, CAS, Beijing, China; School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, 201210, China
| | - Yongzhen Tao
- CAS Key Laboratory of Nutrition, Metabolism and Food Safety, Shanghai Institute of Nutrition and Health (SINH), Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS), Shanghai, 200031, China.
| | - Qiang Wang
- Institute of Food Science and Technology, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences (CAAS), Beijing, 100193, China.
| | - Huiyong Yin
- CAS Key Laboratory of Nutrition, Metabolism and Food Safety, Shanghai Institute of Nutrition and Health (SINH), Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS), Shanghai, 200031, China; University of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, CAS, Beijing, China; Key Laboratory of Food Safety Risk Assessment, Ministry of Health, Beijing, China; School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, 201210, China.
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27
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Yepes-Pérez AF, Herrera-Calderon O, Sánchez-Aparicio JE, Tiessler-Sala L, Maréchal JD, Cardona-G W. Investigating Potential Inhibitory Effect of Uncaria tomentosa (Cat's Claw) against the Main Protease 3CL pro of SARS-CoV-2 by Molecular Modeling. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE : ECAM 2020; 2020:4932572. [PMID: 33029165 PMCID: PMC7532411 DOI: 10.1155/2020/4932572] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2020] [Accepted: 07/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
COVID-19 is a disease caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2. Presently, there is no effective treatment for COVID-19. As part of the worldwide efforts to find efficient therapies and preventions, it has been reported the crystalline structure of the SARS-CoV-2 main protease Mpro (also called 3CLpro) bound to a synthetic inhibitor, which represents a major druggable target. The druggability of Mpro could be used for discovering drugs to treat COVID-19. A multilevel computational study was carried out to evaluate the potential antiviral properties of the components of the medicinal herb Uncaria tomentosa (Cat's claw), focusing on the inhibition of Mpro. The in silico approach starts with protein-ligand docking of 26 Cat's claw key components, followed by ligand pathway calculations, molecular dynamics simulations, and MM-GBSA calculation of the free energy of binding for the best docked candidates. The structural bioinformatics approaches led to identification of three bioactive compounds of Uncaria tomentosa (speciophylline, cadambine, and proanthocyanidin B2) with potential therapeutic effects by strong interaction with 3CLpro. Additionally, in silico drug-likeness indices for these components were calculated and showed good predicted therapeutic profiles of these phytochemicals. Our findings suggest the potential effectiveness of Cat's claw as complementary and/or alternative medicine for COVID-19 treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andres F. Yepes-Pérez
- Chemistry of Colombian Plants, Institute of Chemistry, Faculty of Exact and Natural Sciences, University of Antioquia-UdeA, Calle 70 No. 52-21, A.A 1226, Medellin, Colombia
| | - Oscar Herrera-Calderon
- Academic Department of Pharmacology, Bromatology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy and Biochemistry, Universidad Nacional Mayor de San Marcos, Jr Puno 1002, Lima 15001, Peru
| | - José-Emilio Sánchez-Aparicio
- Insilichem, Departament de Química, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Edifici C.n., 08193 Cerdanyola del Vallés, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Laura Tiessler-Sala
- Insilichem, Departament de Química, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Edifici C.n., 08193 Cerdanyola del Vallés, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Jean-Didier Maréchal
- Insilichem, Departament de Química, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Edifici C.n., 08193 Cerdanyola del Vallés, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Wilson Cardona-G
- Chemistry of Colombian Plants, Institute of Chemistry, Faculty of Exact and Natural Sciences, University of Antioquia-UdeA, Calle 70 No. 52-21, A.A 1226, Medellin, Colombia
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28
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Cui W, Sun C, Ma Y, Wang S, Wang X, Zhang Y. Neuroprotective effect of tormentic acid against memory impairment and neuro‑inflammation in an Alzheimer's disease mouse model. Mol Med Rep 2020; 22:739-750. [PMID: 32468017 PMCID: PMC7339752 DOI: 10.3892/mmr.2020.11154] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2019] [Accepted: 04/21/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Cognitive impairment and neuro-inflammatory responses are the distinctive characteristics of Alzheimer's disease (AD). Tormentic acid (TA) is one of the major active components of Potentilla chinensis and has been demonstrated to have anti-inflammatory properties. However, the potential effects of TA on neuro-inflammatory responses and memory impairment in AD remain unknown. The present study investigated the therapeutic effect of TA on neuro-inflammation, as well as learning and memory impairment in AD mice. In addition, the effects of TA treatment were also examined in a co-culture system of microglia and primary neurons. Intraperitoneal administration of TA attenuated memory deficits in amyloid β precursor protein/presenilin 1 transgenic mice, with a marked decrease in amyloid plaque deposition. TA also reduced microglial activation and decreased the secretion of pro-inflammatory factors in AD mice. Furthermore, pre-treatment with TA suppressed the production of pro-inflammatory markers, as well as the nuclear translocation of nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) p65 induced by Aβ exposure in BV2 cells. TA also reduced inhibited neurotoxicity and improved neuron survival in a neuron-microglia co-culture system. Taken together, these findings suggested that TA could attenuate neuro-inflammation and memory impairment, which may be closely associated with regulation of the NF-κB pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weigang Cui
- Department of Human Anatomy, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, Henan 453003, P.R. China
| | - Chunli Sun
- Department of Human Anatomy, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, Henan 453003, P.R. China
| | - Yuqi Ma
- Department of Human Anatomy, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, Henan 453003, P.R. China
| | - Songtao Wang
- Xinxiang Key Laboratory of Molecular Neurology, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, Henan 453003, P.R. China
| | - Xianwei Wang
- Henan Key Laboratory of Medical Tissue Regeneration, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, Henan 453003, P.R. China
| | - Yinghua Zhang
- Department of Human Anatomy, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, Henan 453003, P.R. China
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29
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Uncaria tomentosa (Willd. ex Schult.) DC.: A Review on Chemical Constituents and Biological Activities. APPLIED SCIENCES-BASEL 2020. [DOI: 10.3390/app10082668] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Uncaria tomentosa (Willd. ex Schult.) DC. (Family: Rubiaceae), commonly known as cat’s claw, is a tropical medicinal vine originating at the Amazon rainforest and other areas of South and Central America. It has been traditionally used to treat asthma, abscesses, fever, urinary tract infections, viral infections, and wounds and found to be effective as an immune system rejuvenator, antioxidant, antimicrobial, and anti-inflammatory agent. U. tomentosa is rich in many phytoconstituents such as oxindole and indole alkaloids, glycosides, organic acids, proanthocyanidins, sterols, and triterpenes. Biological activities of U. tomentosa have been examined against various microorganisms and parasites, including pathogenic bacteria, viruses, and Plasmodium, Babesia and Theileria parasites. Several formulations of cat’s claw (e.g., tinctures, decoctions, capsules, extracts, and teas) are recently available in the market. The current review covers the chemical constituents, biological activities, pharmacokinetics, and toxic properties of U. tomentosa extracts.
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Feng J, Leone J, Schweig S, Zhang Y. Evaluation of Natural and Botanical Medicines for Activity Against Growing and Non-growing Forms of B. burgdorferi. Front Med (Lausanne) 2020; 7:6. [PMID: 32154254 PMCID: PMC7050641 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2020.00006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2019] [Accepted: 01/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Lyme disease is the most common vector-borne disease in the US and Europe. Although the current recommended Lyme antibiotic treatment is effective for the majority of Lyme disease patients, about 10-20% of patients continue to suffer from persisting symptoms. There have been various anecdotal reports on the use of herbal extracts for treating patients with persisting symptoms with varying degree of improvements. However, it is unclear whether the effect of the herb products is due to their direct antimicrobial activity or their effect on host immune system. In the present study, we investigated the antimicrobial effects of 12 commonly used botanical medicines and three other natural antimicrobial agents for potential anti-Borrelia burgdorferi activity in vitro. Among them, 7 natural product extracts at 1% were found to have good activity against the stationary phase B. burgdorferi culture compared to the control antibiotics doxycycline and cefuroxime. These active botanicals include Cryptolepis sanguinolenta, Juglans nigra (Black walnut), Polygonum cuspidatum (Japanese knotweed), Artemisia annua (Sweet wormwood), Uncaria tomentosa (Cat's claw), Cistus incanus, and Scutellaria baicalensis (Chinese skullcap). In contrast, Stevia rebaudiana, Andrographis paniculata, Grapefruit seed extract, colloidal silver, monolaurin, and antimicrobial peptide LL37 had little or no activity against stationary phase B. burgdorferi. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) values of Artemisia annua, Juglans nigra, and Uncaria tomentosa were quite high for growing B. burgdorferi, despite their strong activity against the non-growing stationary phase B. burgdorferi. On the other hand, the top two active herbs, Cryptolepis sanguinolenta and Polygonum cuspidatum, showed strong activity against both growing B. burgdorferi (MIC = 0.03-0.06% and 0.25-0.5%, respectively) and non-growing stationary phase B. burgdorferi. In subculture studies, only 1% Cryptolepis sanguinolenta extract caused complete eradication, while doxycycline and cefuroxime and other active herbs could not eradicate B. burgdorferi stationary phase cells as many spirochetes were visible after 21-day subculture. Further studies are needed to identify the active constituents of the effective botanicals and evaluate their combinations for more effective eradication of B. burgdorferi in vitro and in vivo. The implications of these findings for improving treatment of persistent Lyme disease are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jie Feng
- Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Jacob Leone
- FOCUS Health Group, Naturopathic, Novato, CA, United States
| | - Sunjya Schweig
- California Center for Functional Medicine, Kensington, CA, United States
| | - Ying Zhang
- Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, United States
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Antioxidant Activity of an Aqueous Leaf Extract from Uncaria tomentosa and Its Major Alkaloids Mitraphylline and Isomitraphylline in Caenorhabditis elegans. Molecules 2019; 24:molecules24183299. [PMID: 31510078 PMCID: PMC6766911 DOI: 10.3390/molecules24183299] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2019] [Revised: 08/31/2019] [Accepted: 09/04/2019] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Uncaria tomentosa (Rubiaceae) has a recognized therapeutic potential against various diseases associated with oxidative stress. The aim of this research was to evaluate the antioxidant potential of an aqueous leaf extract (ALE) from U. tomentosa, and its major alkaloids mitraphylline and isomitraphylline. The antioxidant activity of ALE was investigated in vitro using standard assays (DPPH, ABTS and FRAP), while the in vivo activity and mode of action were studied using Caenorhabditis elegans as a model organism. The purified alkaloids did not exhibit antioxidant effects in vivo. ALE reduced the accumulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in wild-type worms, and was able to rescue the worms from a lethal dose of the pro-oxidant juglone. The ALE treatment led to a decreased expression of the oxidative stress response related genes sod-3, gst-4, and hsp-16.2. The treatment of mutant worms lacking the DAF-16 transcription factor with ALE resulted in a significant reduction of ROS levels. Contrarily, the extract had a pro-oxidant effect in the worms lacking the SKN-1 transcription factor. Our results suggest that the antioxidant activity of ALE in C. elegans is independent of its alkaloid content, and that SKN-1 is required for ALE-mediated stress resistance.
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