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Gray NE, Hack W, Brandes MS, Zweig JA, Yang L, Marney L, Choi J, Magana AA, Cerruti N, McFerrin J, Koike S, Nguyen T, Raber J, Quinn JF, Maier CS, Soumyanath A. Amelioration of age-related cognitive decline and anxiety in mice by Centella asiatica extract varies by sex, dose and mode of administration. FRONTIERS IN AGING 2024; 5:1357922. [PMID: 38770167 PMCID: PMC11102990 DOI: 10.3389/fragi.2024.1357922] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2023] [Accepted: 04/10/2024] [Indexed: 05/22/2024]
Abstract
Background: A water extract (CAW) of the Ayurvedic plant Centella asiatica administered in drinking water has been shown to improve cognitive deficits in mouse models of aging and neurodegenerative diseases. Here the effects of CAW administered in drinking water or the diet on cognition, measures of anxiety and depression-like behavior in healthy aged mice are compared. Methods: Three- and eighteen-month-old male and female C57BL6 mice were administered rodent AIN-93M diet containing CAW (0, 0.2, 0.5 or 1% w/w) to provide 0, 200 mg/kg/d, 500 mg/kg/d or 1,000 mg/kg/d CAW for a total of 5 weeks. An additional group of eighteen-month-old mice were treated with CAW (10 mg/mL) in their drinking water CAW for a total of 5 weeks to deliver the same exposure of CAW as the highest dietary dose (1,000 mg/kg/d). CAW doses delivered were calculated based on food and water consumption measured in previous experiments. In the fourth and fifth weeks, mice underwent behavioral testing of cognition, anxiety and depression (n = 12 of each sex per treatment group in each test). Results: Aged mice of both sexes showed cognitive deficits relative to young mice while only female aged mice showed increased anxiety compared to the young female mice and no differences in depression were observed between the different ages. CAW (1,000 mg/kg/d) in the drinking water improved deficits in aged mice in learning, executive function and recognition memory in both sexes and attenuated the increased measures of anxiety observed in the aged female mice. However, CAW in the diet only improved executive function in aged mice at the highest dose (1,000 mg/kg/d) in both sexes and did so less robustly than when given in the water. There were no effects of CAW on depression-like behavior in aged animals regardless of whether it was administered in the diet or the water. Conclusions: These results suggest that CAW can ameliorate age-related changes in measures of anxiety and cognition and that the mode of administration is important for the effects of CAW on resilience to these age-related changes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nora E. Gray
- BENFRA Botanical Dietary Supplements Research Center, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, United States
- Department of Neurology, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, United States
| | - Wyatt Hack
- BENFRA Botanical Dietary Supplements Research Center, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, United States
- Department of Neurology, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, United States
| | - Mikah S. Brandes
- BENFRA Botanical Dietary Supplements Research Center, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, United States
- Department of Neurology, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, United States
| | - Jonathan A. Zweig
- BENFRA Botanical Dietary Supplements Research Center, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, United States
- Department of Neurology, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, United States
| | - Liping Yang
- BENFRA Botanical Dietary Supplements Research Center, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, United States
- Department of Chemistry, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR, United States
| | - Luke Marney
- BENFRA Botanical Dietary Supplements Research Center, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, United States
- Department of Chemistry, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR, United States
| | - Jaewoo Choi
- BENFRA Botanical Dietary Supplements Research Center, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, United States
- Department of Chemistry, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR, United States
| | - Armando Alcazar Magana
- BENFRA Botanical Dietary Supplements Research Center, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, United States
- Department of Chemistry, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR, United States
| | - Natasha Cerruti
- BENFRA Botanical Dietary Supplements Research Center, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, United States
- Oregon’s Wild Harvest, Redmond, OR, United States
| | - Janis McFerrin
- BENFRA Botanical Dietary Supplements Research Center, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, United States
- Oregon’s Wild Harvest, Redmond, OR, United States
| | - Seiji Koike
- BENFRA Botanical Dietary Supplements Research Center, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, United States
- School of Public Health, Oregon Health & Science University-Portland State University, Portland, OR, United States
| | - Thuan Nguyen
- BENFRA Botanical Dietary Supplements Research Center, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, United States
- School of Public Health, Oregon Health & Science University-Portland State University, Portland, OR, United States
| | - Jacob Raber
- BENFRA Botanical Dietary Supplements Research Center, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, United States
- Department of Behavioral Neuroscience, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, United States
| | - Joseph F. Quinn
- BENFRA Botanical Dietary Supplements Research Center, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, United States
- Department of Neurology, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, United States
- Parkinson’s Disease Research Education and Clinical Care Center, Veterans’ Administration Portland Healthcare System, Portland, OR, United States
| | - Claudia S. Maier
- BENFRA Botanical Dietary Supplements Research Center, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, United States
- Department of Chemistry, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR, United States
- Linus Pauling Institute, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR, United States
| | - Amala Soumyanath
- BENFRA Botanical Dietary Supplements Research Center, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, United States
- Department of Neurology, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, United States
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Wright KM, Bollen M, David J, Mepham B, Alcázar Magaña A, McClure C, Maier CS, Quinn JF, Soumyanath A. Bioanalytical method validation and application to a phase 1, double-blind, randomized pharmacokinetic trial of a standardized Centella asiatica (L.) Urban water extract product in healthy older adults. Front Pharmacol 2023; 14:1228030. [PMID: 37680716 PMCID: PMC10481538 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2023.1228030] [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: 05/24/2023] [Accepted: 08/03/2023] [Indexed: 09/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Centella asiatica is an herbaceous plant reputed in Eastern medicine to improve memory. Preclinical studies have shown that C. asiatica aqueous extract (CAW) improves neuronal health, reduces oxidative stress, and positively impacts learning and cognition. This study aimed to develop and validate bioanalytical methods for detecting known bioactive compounds from C. asiatica in human biological matrices and apply them to a human pharmacokinetic trial in healthy older adults. Methods: High performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (HPLC-MS/MS) was used for detecting triterpenes and caffeoylquinic acids from C. asiatica, or their metabolites, in human plasma and urine. Validation parameters including linearity, precision, accuracy, recovery and thermal stability were evaluated. The method was applied to a Phase I, randomized, double-blind, crossover trial of two doses (2 or 4 g) of a standardized C. asiatica water extract product (CAP) in eight healthy older adults. Pharmacokinetic parameters were measured over a 12-h post administration period and acute safety was assessed. Results: The method satisfied US Food & Drug Administration criteria for linearity and recovery of the analytes of interest in human plasma and urine. The method also satisfied criteria for precision and accuracy at medium and high concentrations. Single administration of 2 and 4 g of CAP was well tolerated and safe in healthy older adults. The parent triterpene glycosides, asiaticoside and madecassoside, were not detected in plasma and in minimal amounts in urinary excretion analyses, while the aglycones, asiatic acid and madecassic acid, showed readily detectable pharmacokinetic profiles. Similarly, the di-caffeoylquinic acids and mono-caffeoylquinic acids were detected in low quantities, while their putative metabolites showed readily detectable pharmacokinetic profiles and urinary excretion. Discussion: This method was able to identify and calculate the concentration of triterpenes and caffeoylquinic acids from C. asiatica, or their metabolites, in human plasma and urine. The oral absorption of these key compounds from CAP, and its acute safety in healthy older adults, support the use of this C. asiatica product in future clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kirsten M. Wright
- Department of Neurology, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, United States
- BENFRA Botanical Dietary Supplements Research Center, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, United States
| | - Melissa Bollen
- Department of Neurology, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, United States
- BENFRA Botanical Dietary Supplements Research Center, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, United States
| | - Jason David
- Department of Neurology, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, United States
| | - Bridgette Mepham
- Department of Neurology, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, United States
| | - Armando Alcázar Magaña
- Department of Chemistry, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR, United States
- Linus Pauling Institute, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR, United States
| | - Christine McClure
- Department of Neurology, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, United States
| | - Claudia S. Maier
- BENFRA Botanical Dietary Supplements Research Center, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, United States
- Department of Chemistry, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR, United States
| | - Joseph F. Quinn
- Department of Neurology, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, United States
- BENFRA Botanical Dietary Supplements Research Center, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, United States
- Veterans Affairs Portland Healthcare System Center, Department of Neurology, Portland, OR, United States
| | - Amala Soumyanath
- Department of Neurology, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, United States
- BENFRA Botanical Dietary Supplements Research Center, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, United States
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Nattapon R, Aree W, Sompol T, Anchalee V, Chit C, Wongsathit C, Kanokwan T, Mayuree TH, Narawut P. Standardized Centella asiatica (ECa 233) extract decreased pain hypersensitivity development in a male mouse model of chronic inflammatory temporomandibular disorder. Sci Rep 2023; 13:6642. [PMID: 37095163 PMCID: PMC10126003 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-33769-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2022] [Accepted: 04/18/2023] [Indexed: 04/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Chronic inflammatory temporomandibular disorder (TMD) pain has a high prevalence, and available nonspecific treatments have adverse side effects. ECa 233, a standardized Centella asiatica extract, is highly anti-inflammatory and safe. We investigated its therapeutic effects by injecting complete Freund's adjuvant (CFA) into right temporomandibular joint of mice and administering either ibuprofen or ECa 233 (30, 100, and 300 mg/kg) for 28 days. Inflammatory and nociceptive markers, bone density, and pain hypersensitivity were examined. CFA decreased ipsilateral bone density, suggesting inflammation localization, which ipsilaterally caused immediate calcitonin gene-related peptide elevation in the trigeminal ganglia (TG) and trigeminal subnucleus caudalis (TNC), followed by late increase of NaV1.7 in TG and of p-CREB and activation of microglia in TNC. Contralaterally, only p-CREB and activated microglia in TNC showed delayed increase. Pain hypersensitivity, which developed early ipsilaterally, but late contralaterally, was reduced by ibuprofen and ECa 233 (30 or 100 mg/kg). However, ibuprofen and only 100-mg/kg ECa 233 effectively mitigated marker elevation. This suggests 30-mg/kg ECa 233 was antinociceptive, whereas 100-mg/kg ECa 233 was both anti-inflammatory and antinociceptive. ECa 233 may be alternatively and safely used for treating chronic inflammatory TMD pain, showing an inverted U-shaped dose-response relationship with maximal effect at 100 mg/kg.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rotpenpian Nattapon
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, 2 Srisavarindhira Bldg., 13Th Floor, Wanglang Road, Siriraj Subdistrict, Bangkoknoi District, Bangkok, 10700, Thailand
- Department of Oral Biology and Occlusion, Faculty of Dentistry, Prince of Songkla University, Songkhla, Thailand
| | - Wanasuntronwong Aree
- Department of Oral Biology, Faculty of Dentistry, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Tapechum Sompol
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, 2 Srisavarindhira Bldg., 13Th Floor, Wanglang Road, Siriraj Subdistrict, Bangkoknoi District, Bangkok, 10700, Thailand
| | - Vattarakorn Anchalee
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, 2 Srisavarindhira Bldg., 13Th Floor, Wanglang Road, Siriraj Subdistrict, Bangkoknoi District, Bangkok, 10700, Thailand
| | - Care Chit
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, 2 Srisavarindhira Bldg., 13Th Floor, Wanglang Road, Siriraj Subdistrict, Bangkoknoi District, Bangkok, 10700, Thailand
| | - Chindasri Wongsathit
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, 2 Srisavarindhira Bldg., 13Th Floor, Wanglang Road, Siriraj Subdistrict, Bangkoknoi District, Bangkok, 10700, Thailand
| | - Tilokskulchai Kanokwan
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, 2 Srisavarindhira Bldg., 13Th Floor, Wanglang Road, Siriraj Subdistrict, Bangkoknoi District, Bangkok, 10700, Thailand
| | | | - Pakaprot Narawut
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, 2 Srisavarindhira Bldg., 13Th Floor, Wanglang Road, Siriraj Subdistrict, Bangkoknoi District, Bangkok, 10700, Thailand.
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Malík M, Tlustoš P. Nootropic Herbs, Shrubs, and Trees as Potential Cognitive Enhancers. PLANTS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2023; 12:plants12061364. [PMID: 36987052 PMCID: PMC10056569 DOI: 10.3390/plants12061364] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2023] [Revised: 03/15/2023] [Accepted: 03/16/2023] [Indexed: 05/13/2023]
Abstract
Plant-based nootropics are a diverse group of natural drugs that can improve cognitive abilities through various physiological mechanisms, especially in cases where these functions are weakened or impaired. In many cases, the nootropics enhance erythrocyte plasticity and inhibit aggregation, which improves the blood's rheological properties and increases its flow to the brain. Many of these formulations possess antioxidant activity that protects brain tissue from neurotoxicity and improves the brain's oxygen supply. They can induce the synthesis of neuronal proteins, nucleic acids, and phospholipids for constructing and repairing neurohormonal membranes. These natural compounds can potentially be present in a great variety of herbs, shrubs, and even some trees and vines. The plant species reviewed here were selected based on the availability of verifiable experimental data and clinical trials investigating potential nootropic effects. Original research articles, relevant animal studies, meta-analyses, systematic reviews, and clinical trials were included in this review. Selected representatives of this heterogeneous group included Bacopa monnieri (L.) Wettst., Centella asiatica (L.) Urban, Eleutherococcus senticosus (Rupr. & Maxim.) Maxim., Ginkgo biloba L., Lepidium meyenii Walp., Panax ginseng C.A. Meyer, Paullinia cupana Kunth, Rhodiola rosea L., Schisandra chinensis (Turcz.) Baill., and Withania somnifera (L.) Dunal. The species are depicted and described, together with their active components and nootropic effects, and evidence of their efficacy is presented. The study provides brief descriptions of the representative species, their occurrence, history, and the chemical composition of the principle medicinal compounds, with uses, indications, experimental treatments, dosages, possible side effects, and contraindications. Most plant nootropics must be taken at optimal doses for extended periods before measurable improvement occurs, but they are generally very well tolerated. Their psychoactive properties are not produced by a single molecule but by a synergistic combination of several compounds. The available data suggest that including extracts from these plants in medicinal products to treat cognitive disorders can have substantial potential therapeutic benefits.
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Muneerungsee N, Tanasawet S, Moolsap F, Udomuksorn W, Tantisira M, Zaima N, Sukketsiri W. The standardized Centella asiatica extract suppressed the inflammation and apoptosis in macrophage-conditioned medium and nutrient stress-induced adipocytes. Biologia (Bratisl) 2022. [DOI: 10.1007/s11756-022-01194-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/02/2022]
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Malík M, Tlustoš P. Nootropics as Cognitive Enhancers: Types, Dosage and Side Effects of Smart Drugs. Nutrients 2022; 14:nu14163367. [PMID: 36014874 PMCID: PMC9415189 DOI: 10.3390/nu14163367] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2022] [Revised: 08/14/2022] [Accepted: 08/15/2022] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Nootropics, also known as “smart drugs” are a diverse group of medicinal substances whose action improves human thinking, learning, and memory, especially in cases where these functions are impaired. This review provides an up-to-date overview of the potential effectiveness and importance of nootropics. Based on their nature and their effects, this heterogeneous group of drugs has been divided into four subgroups: classical nootropic compounds, substances increasing brain metabolism, cholinergic, and plants and their extracts with nootropic effects. Each subgroup of nootropics contains several main representatives, and for each one, its uses, indications, experimental treatments, dosage, and possible side effects and contraindications are discussed. For the nootropic plant extracts, there is also a brief description of each plant representative, its occurrence, history, and chemical composition of the medicinal part. Lastly, specific recommendations regarding the use of nootropics by both ill and healthy individuals are summarized.
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Arribas-López E, Zand N, Ojo O, Snowden MJ, Kochhar T. A Systematic Review of the Effect of Centella asiatica on Wound Healing. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:3266. [PMID: 35328954 PMCID: PMC8956065 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19063266] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2022] [Revised: 03/01/2022] [Accepted: 03/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Under metabolic stress conditions, there is a higher demand for nutrients which needs to be met. This is to reduce the risk of delay in wound healing which could lead to chronic wound. AIM This is a systematic review of the effect of Centella asiatica on wound healing. C. asiatica is a traditional medicinal plant used due to its antimicrobial, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, neuroprotective, and wound healing properties. METHODS PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) guidelines were followed for the systematic review and four electronic databases were used. RESULTS Four clinical trials met the inclusion criteria. The following distinct areas were identified under C. asiatica: wound contraction and granulation; healing/bleeding time and re-epithelialization; VAS (visual analogue scale) scores; skin erythema and wound appearance. CONCLUSIONS C. asiatica might enhance wound healing resulting from improved angiogenesis. This might occur due to its stimulating effect on collagen I, Fibroblast Growth Factor (FGF) and Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor (VEGF) production. Besides, C. asiatica has shown an anti-inflammatory effect observed by the reduction in Interleukin-1β (IL-1β), Interleukin-6 (IL-6) and Tumour Necrosis Factor α (TNFα), prostaglandin E2 (PGE2), cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2), and lipoxygenase (LOX) activity. Delivery systems such as nanoencapsulation could be used to increase C. asiatica bioavailability. Nevertheless, more studies are needed in order to perform a meta-analysis and ascertain the effects of C. asiatica on wound healing and its different parameters.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elena Arribas-López
- School of Science, Medway Campus, University of Greenwich, Central Ave, Gillingham, Chatham Maritime, Kent ME4 4TB, UK; (E.A.-L.); (N.Z.); (M.J.S.)
| | - Nazanin Zand
- School of Science, Medway Campus, University of Greenwich, Central Ave, Gillingham, Chatham Maritime, Kent ME4 4TB, UK; (E.A.-L.); (N.Z.); (M.J.S.)
| | - Omorogieva Ojo
- School of Health Sciences, Avery Hill Campus, University of Greenwich, Avery Hill Road, London SE9 2UG, UK
| | - Martin John Snowden
- School of Science, Medway Campus, University of Greenwich, Central Ave, Gillingham, Chatham Maritime, Kent ME4 4TB, UK; (E.A.-L.); (N.Z.); (M.J.S.)
| | - Tony Kochhar
- HCA London Bridge Hospital, Tooley Street, London SE1 2PR, UK;
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Development and Optimization of Nanoemulsion from Ethanolic Extract of Centella asiatica (NanoSECA) Using D-Optimal Mixture Design to Improve Blood-Brain Barrier Permeability. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE 2022; 2022:3483511. [PMID: 35295926 PMCID: PMC8920630 DOI: 10.1155/2022/3483511] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2021] [Revised: 12/16/2021] [Accepted: 01/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
The evidence on the neuroprotective impact of Centella asiatica (C. asiatica) has been greatly documented in recent years. However, a major obstacle that remains to be overcome is the capacity of the active molecules in C. asiatica to cross the blood-brain barrier (BBB). In this study, we explored the possibilities of using a D-optimal mixture design to fabricate nanoemulsion of C. asiatica (NanoSECA) for better brain bioavailability. The parameters for optimization were the percentage of water (10–80% w/v) and virgin coconut oil (VCO) (10–80% w/v). Nanoemulsions were formulated using a high-pressure homogenization approach and were characterized for their physicochemical properties. The optimal VCO-based nanoemulsion (VBN: F2) conditions were found at 80% (w/v) of water and 10% (w/v) of VCO. Subsequently, viability tests were conducted on neuroblastoma (SH-SY5Y) and macrophage (RAW 264.7) cell lines. NanoSECA was distinguished for its antioxidant, acetylcholinesterase (AChE), anti-inflammatory, and parallel artificial membrane permeability assay (PAMPA) activities in vitro. The NanoSECA has a particle size of 127.833 ± 8.280 nm, zeta potential (ZP) of −24.9 ± 0.011 mV, polydispersity index (PDI) of 0.493 ± 4.681, percentage prediction error (PPE) of −12.02%, and pH of 6.0 ± 0.006 and is also stable under different storage conditions. Cell viability was improved in a dose-dependent manner on SH-SY5Y and RAW 264.7 cell lines. In addition, NanoSECA significantly reduced the AChE activity, suppressing the level of proinflammatory mediators and oxidative stress. Moreover, NanoSECA showed high BBB permeation with a high value of experimental permeability to cross the BBB. Thus, NanoSECA could efficiently potentiate the central nervous system (CNS) therapeutic activities through enhanced penetration of BBB. These nano-delivery systems are crucial to unlock the full potential of C. asiatica for treating numerous CNS disorders.
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Pharmacological Effects of Centella asiatica on Skin Diseases: Evidence and Possible Mechanisms. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE 2021; 2021:5462633. [PMID: 34845411 PMCID: PMC8627341 DOI: 10.1155/2021/5462633] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2021] [Revised: 10/27/2021] [Accepted: 11/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
The medicinal herb Centella asiatica (L.) Urban known as gotu kola has been reported to exhibit a wide range of pharmacological activities. In particular, a significant body of scientific research exists on the therapeutic properties of preparations of C. asiatica or its triterpenes in the treatment of skin diseases. The present study is aimed to provide a comprehensive overview of the beneficial effects of C. asiatica on skin diseases. Peer-reviewed articles on the potent dermatological effects of C. asiatica were acquired from PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, ScienceDirect, and SciFinder. This review provides an understanding of pharmacological studies which confirm the potent dermatological effects and underlying molecular mechanisms of C. asiatica. This medicinal plant and its triterpenes include asiaticoside, madecassoside, and their aglycones, asiatic acid and madecassic acid. These compounds exert therapeutic effects on dermatological diseases such as acne, burns, atopic dermatitis, and wounds via NF-κB, TGF-β/Smad, MAPK, Wnt/β-catenin, and STAT signaling in in vitro and in vivo studies. However, additional rigorously controlled long-term clinical trials will be necessary to confirm the full potential of C. asiatica as a therapeutic agent.
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Tawinwung S, Junsaeng D, Utthiya S, Khemawoot P. Immunomodulatory effect of standardized C. asiatica extract on a promotion of regulatory T cells in rats. BMC Complement Med Ther 2021; 21:220. [PMID: 34479568 PMCID: PMC8418037 DOI: 10.1186/s12906-021-03394-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2021] [Accepted: 08/17/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Background ECa 233 is a standardized extract of C. asiatica containing the triterpenoid glycosides, madecassoside to asiaticoside in the ratio of (1.5 ± 0.5):1. Anti-inflammatory activities of ECa 233 have been reported; however the immunomodulatory effects of ECa 233 on regulatory T cells, which have a pivotal role in immune regulation, has not been elucidated. Therefore, we investigated the effects of ECa 233 on regulatory T cells that may provide benefits in autoimmune and chronic inflammatory diseases. Methods ECa 233 was prepared as oral suspension in 0.5% carboxymethylcellulose and administered to male Wistar rats via oral gavage. The pharmacokinetics and toxicity of ECa 233 were evaluated. Splenic lymphocytes were isolated and analyzed by flow cytometry and qPCR to determine the immunomodulatory effects of ECa 233 on regulatory T cells. Results All rats had good tolerability to ECa 233 and other test preparations. The pharmacokinetic study showed low oral bioavailability for both triterpenoids, with the maximum plasma concentration reached at 4 h for asiaticoside and at 0.5 h for madecassoside. Multiple oral administration of ECa 233 reduced the frequency of T cells, particularly CD8 T cells in rats. ECa 233 enhanced the percentage of regulatory T cells, characterized by high expression of CD25+ and upregulation of FoxP3 gene. Conclusions The present study demonstrated that ECa 233 possesses immunosuppressive properties by enhancing regulatory T cells. These results provide in vivo evidence for the anti-inflammatory action of ECa 233, in line with previously reports, and the potential uses of ECa 233 in the treatment of chronic inflammatory and autoimmune diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Supannikar Tawinwung
- Department of Pharmacology and Physiology, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Dhirarin Junsaeng
- Department of Clinical Pharmacokinetics, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kanazawa University, Takara-machi, Kanazawa, Japan
| | - Supanut Utthiya
- Department of Pharmacology and Physiology, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Phisit Khemawoot
- Chakri Naruebodindra Medical Institute, Faculty of Medicine Ramathibodi Hospital, Mahidol University, Bang Phli, Samut Prakarn, 10540, Thailand.
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Wong JH, Barron AM, Abdullah JM. Mitoprotective Effects of Centella asiatica (L.) Urb.: Anti-Inflammatory and Neuroprotective Opportunities in Neurodegenerative Disease. Front Pharmacol 2021; 12:687935. [PMID: 34267660 PMCID: PMC8275827 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2021.687935] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2021] [Accepted: 06/17/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Natural products remain a crucial source of drug discovery for accessible and affordable solutions for healthy aging. Centella asiatica (L.) Urb. (CA) is an important medicinal plant with a wide range of ethnomedicinal uses. Past in vivo and in vitro studies have shown that the plant extract and its key components, such as asiatic acid, asiaticoside, madecassic acid and madecassoside, exhibit a range of anti-inflammatory, neuroprotective, and cognitive benefits mechanistically linked to mitoprotective and antioxidant properties of the plant. Mitochondrial dysfunction and oxidative stress are key drivers of aging and neurodegenerative disease, including Alzheimer’s disease and Parkinson’s disease. Here we appraise the growing body of evidence that the mitoprotective and antioxidative effects of CA may potentially be harnessed for the treatment of brain aging and neurodegenerative disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jia Hui Wong
- Neurobiology of Aging and Disease Laboratory, Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine, Nanyang Technological University Singapore, Singapore
| | - Anna M Barron
- Neurobiology of Aging and Disease Laboratory, Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine, Nanyang Technological University Singapore, Singapore
| | - Jafri Malin Abdullah
- Department of Neurosciences, School of Medical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Kota Bharu, Malaysia.,Brain & Behaviour Cluster and Department of Neurosciences, School of Medical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Kota Bharu, Malaysia
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12
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Songvut P, Chariyavilaskul P, Khemawoot P, Tansawat R. Pharmacokinetics and metabolomics investigation of an orally modified formula of standardized Centella asiatica extract in healthy volunteers. Sci Rep 2021; 11:6850. [PMID: 33767223 PMCID: PMC7994819 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-86267-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2020] [Accepted: 03/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The formula of a standardized extract of Centella asiatica (ECa 233) was modified to improve its dissolution, with implications for pharmacokinetics and metabolomic profile. This study aimed to understand the resultant changes in disposition kinetics of ECa 233 and alterations to human metabolome after oral administration. This study was a two-sequence of dosages (250 and 500 mg), with an open-label phase I clinical trial. The modified formula was administered in single and multiple doses to twelve healthy Thai volunteers. The major parent compounds, madecassoside and asiaticoside, were rarely absorbed, instead undergoing biotransformation into active metabolites, madecassic acid and asiatic acid with possibility to be eliminated via fecal route. Increasing the dose of ECa 233 resulted in significantly greater plasma levels of those active metabolites, with accumulation of asiatic acid after multiple oral administration for seven days. Examining the impacts of accumulation behavior on metabolomics, the study traced changes in levels pre- and post-dose of five relevant human metabolites. Administration of ECa 233 was found to be significantly associated with an increase of choline, an endogenous metabolite with documented benefits for learning and memory. Therefore, ECa 233 may be useful in mitigating cognitive impairment, through its role in modulating human metabolites.
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Affiliation(s)
- Phanit Songvut
- Department of Pharmacology and Physiology, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand.,Translational Research Unit, Chulabhorn Research Institute, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Pajaree Chariyavilaskul
- Clinical Pharmacokinetics and Pharmacogenomics Research Unit, Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Phisit Khemawoot
- Chakri Naruebodindra Medical Institute, Faculty of Medicine Ramathibodhi Hospital, Mahidol University, Samut Prakarn, Thailand. .,Preclinical Pharmacokinetics and Interspecies Scaling for Drug Development Research Unit, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand.
| | - Rossarin Tansawat
- Department of Food and Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand.
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Sun B, Hayashi M, Kudo M, Wu L, Qin L, Gao M, Liu T. Madecassoside Inhibits Body Weight Gain via Modulating SIRT1-AMPK Signaling Pathway and Activating Genes Related to Thermogenesis. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2021; 12:627950. [PMID: 33767670 PMCID: PMC7985537 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2021.627950] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2020] [Accepted: 02/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Pre-clinical research studies have shown that Madecassoside (MA) has favorable therapeutic effects on arthritis, acne, vitiligo and other diseases. However, the effects of MA on obesity have not yet been studied. This study mainly aimed to investigate the effects of MA in protecting against obesity and its underlying mechanism in reducing obesity. METHODS Obese diabetic KKay/TaJcl mice model was adopted to the study. The body weight of all animals was recorded daily, and the blood glucose, blood lipid, and serum aminotransferase levels were examined, respectively. The expression of P-AMPK, SIRT1, P-LKB1, P-ACC, and P-HSL in abdominal fat, mesenteric fat, and epididymal fat was measured by western blotting, and the levels of PPARα, CPT1a, PGC-1α, UCP-1, Cidea, Cox7a1, and Cox8b were examined by real-time quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR). RESULTS The results revealed that the body weight of the mice in MA group was significantly reduced, and the body mass index (BMI) showed significant difference between the two groups after 8 weeks of MA treatment. Further research revealed that it affected the mesenteric fat and epididymis fat by activating SIRT1/AMPK signaling pathway, and then promoted fatty acid oxidation of epididymal fat (PPARα ↑, CPT1a↑, and PGC-1α↑). Last but not the least, it also promoted the expression of UCP-1 and stimulated thermoregulatory genes (Cidea, Cox7a1, and Cox8b) in brown fat and mesenteric fat. CONCLUSIONS Taken together, these findings suggest that MA can inhibit the weight gain in obese diabetic mice, and reduce triglyceride levels, inhibit lipogenesis of mesenteric fat, promote epididymal fat lipolysis and fatty acid oxidation. Furthermore, MA treatment might promote mesenteric fat browning and activate mitochondrial function in brown fat as well as mesenteric fat.
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Affiliation(s)
- Boju Sun
- Second Clinical Medical College, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Misa Hayashi
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Mukogawa Women’s University, Hyogo, Japan
| | - Maya Kudo
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Mukogawa Women’s University, Hyogo, Japan
| | - Lili Wu
- Key Laboratory of Health Cultivation of the Ministry of Education, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Lingling Qin
- Technology Department, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Ming Gao
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Mukogawa Women’s University, Hyogo, Japan
- Institute for Biosciences, Mukogawa Women’s University, Hyogo, Japan
- *Correspondence: Ming Gao, ; Tonghua Liu,
| | - Tonghua Liu
- Key Laboratory of Health Cultivation of the Ministry of Education, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
- *Correspondence: Ming Gao, ; Tonghua Liu,
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14
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Sun B, Wu L, Wu Y, Zhang C, Qin L, Hayashi M, Kudo M, Gao M, Liu T. Therapeutic Potential of Centella asiatica and Its Triterpenes: A Review. Front Pharmacol 2020; 11:568032. [PMID: 33013406 PMCID: PMC7498642 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2020.568032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 74] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2020] [Accepted: 08/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Centella asiatica (also known as Centella asiatica (L.) Urb. or Gotu kola) is a traditional Chinese medicine with extensive medicinal value, which is commonly used in Southeast Asian countries. This study aimed to summarize the effects of C. asiatica and its main components on neurological diseases, endocrine diseases, skin diseases, cardiovascular diseases, gastrointestinal diseases, immune diseases, and gynecological diseases, as well as potential molecular mechanisms, to study the pathological mechanism of these diseases based on the changes at the molecular level. The results showed that C. asiatica and its triterpenoids had extensive beneficial effects on neurological and skin diseases, which were confirmed through clinical studies. They exhibited anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidative stress, anti-apoptotic effects, and improvement in mitochondrial function. However, further clinical studies are urgently required due to the low level of evidence and lack of patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Boju Sun
- Second Clinical Medical College, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Lili Wu
- Key Laboratory of Health Cultivation of the Ministry of Education, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - You Wu
- Second Clinical Medical College, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Chengfei Zhang
- Second Clinical Medical College, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Lingling Qin
- Technology Department, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Misa Hayashi
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Mukogawa Women's University, Hyogo, Japan
| | - Maya Kudo
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Mukogawa Women's University, Hyogo, Japan
| | - Ming Gao
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Mukogawa Women's University, Hyogo, Japan
| | - Tonghua Liu
- Second Clinical Medical College, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
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Luo J, Zhang T, Zhu C, Sun J, Zhu W, Ai W, Huang X, Wang X. Asiaticoside might attenuate bleomycin-induced pulmonary fibrosis by activating cAMP and Rap1 signalling pathway assisted by A2AR. J Cell Mol Med 2020; 24:8248-8261. [PMID: 32548952 PMCID: PMC7348182 DOI: 10.1111/jcmm.15505] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2020] [Revised: 05/10/2020] [Accepted: 05/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Asiaticoside (AS) has been reported to have protective effect on pulmonary fibrosis (PF). In this study, we aimed to explore the potential mechanism of the therapeutic role of AS and its relationship with A2AR in PF. Adenosine 2A receptor gene knockout (A2AR−/−) mice and wild‐type (WT) mice were used to establish bleomycin (BLM)‐induced PF models and were then treated with AS (50 mg/kg/d). Pulmonary inflammation and fibrosis were observed in the PF model with much higher severity in A2AR−/−mice than that in WT mice and AS significantly alleviated lung inflammation and fibrosis; however, it was less effective in A2AR−/− mice than in WT mice via histopathological analysis. Using RNA sequencing analysis, we found up‐regulated differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in BLM group were enriched in immune and inflammation‐associated pathways compared with control group. There were 242 common DEGs between down‐regulated in BLM vs control group and up‐regulated in BLM + AS vs BLM group, which were enriched in cAMP and Rap1 signalling pathways. Furthermore, the expression of five key factors of these two pathways including adenylate cyclase (ADCY1, ADCY5, ADCY8, cAMP and Rap1) were confirmed up‐regulated by AS with the presence of A2AR. Therefore, AS might attenuate BLM‐induced PF by activating cAMP and Rap1 signalling pathways which is assisted by A2AR, making it a promising therapeutic optional for PF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Luo
- Department of Rheumatology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Ting Zhang
- Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, The First People's Hospital of Wenling, Zhenjiang, China
| | - Chengwei Zhu
- Department of Rheumatology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Junwei Sun
- Division of Pulmonary Medicine, First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Key Laboratory of Heart and Lung, Wenzhou, China
| | - Wenjing Zhu
- Division of Pulmonary Medicine, First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Key Laboratory of Heart and Lung, Wenzhou, China
| | - Wenxiu Ai
- Division of Pulmonary Medicine, First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Key Laboratory of Heart and Lung, Wenzhou, China
| | - Xiaoying Huang
- Division of Pulmonary Medicine, First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Key Laboratory of Heart and Lung, Wenzhou, China
| | - Xiaobing Wang
- Department of Rheumatology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
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Sukketsiri W, Tanasawet S, Moolsap F, Tantisira MH, Hutamekalin P, Tipmanee V. ECa 233 Suppresses LPS-Induced Proinflammatory Responses in Macrophages via Suppressing ERK1/2, p38 MAPK and Akt Pathways. Biol Pharm Bull 2020; 42:1358-1365. [PMID: 31366870 DOI: 10.1248/bpb.b19-00248] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
A current anti-inflammatory agent often targets the prevention of inflammatory disorder development. The standardized Centella asiatica ECa 233 extract has been previously reported for anti-inflammatory effect. This study aimed to investigate its anti-inflammatory effect and mechanisms of ECa 233 in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated RAW264.7 macrophages, through 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay, nitric oxide (NO) assay, reactive oxygen species (ROS) production assay, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and Western blot analysis. Our results found that ECa 233 significantly inhibited LPS-stimulated pro-inflammatory mediators production including ROS, NO and prostaglandin E2 (PGE2), and pro-inflammatory cytokines, including tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α and interleukin (IL)-1β without cytotoxicity. In addition, ECa 233 downregulated not only the expression of inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) and cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2), but also the activation of nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB), activated protein kinase B (Akt), extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK1/2) and p38 mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPK) induced by LPS. The inhibition of LPS-induced inflammation due to ECa 233 offered an opportunity as a tentatively potential candidate for the prevention and treatment of inflammatory diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wanida Sukketsiri
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Science, Prince of Songkla University
| | - Supita Tanasawet
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Science, Prince of Songkla University
| | - Furoida Moolsap
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Science, Prince of Songkla University
| | | | | | - Varomyalin Tipmanee
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Prince of Songkla University
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Omar N, Lokanathan Y, Mohd Razi ZR, Bt Haji Idrus R. The effects of Centella asiatica (L.) Urban on neural differentiation of human mesenchymal stem cells in vitro. Altern Ther Health Med 2019; 19:167. [PMID: 31286956 PMCID: PMC6615117 DOI: 10.1186/s12906-019-2581-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2018] [Accepted: 06/27/2019] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
Background Centella asiatica (L.) Urban, known as Indian Pennywort, is a tropical medicinal plant from Apiaceae family native to Southeast Asian countries. It has been widely used as a nerve tonic in Ayuverdic medicine since ancient times. However, whether it can substitute for neurotrophic factors to induce human mesenchymal stem cell (hMSCs) differentiation into the neural lineage remains unknown. This study aimed to investigate the effect of a raw extract of C. asiatica (L.) (RECA) on the neural differentiation of hMSCs in vitro. Methods The hMSCs derived from human Wharton’s jelly umbilical cord (hWJMSCs; n = 6) were treated with RECA at different concentrations; 400, 800, 1200, 1600, 2000 and 2400 μg/ml. The cytotoxicity of RECA was evaluated via the MTT (3-(4, 5-dimethylthiazolyl-2)-2, 5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide) and cell proliferation assays. The hWJMSCs were then induced to neural lineage for 9 days either with RECA alone or RECA in combination with neurotrophic factors (NF). Cell morphological changes were observed under an inverted microscope, while the expression of the neural markers S100β, p75 NGFR, MBP, GFAP and MOG was analyzed by quantitative polymerase chain reaction and immunocytochemistry. The cell cycle profile of differentiated and undifferentiated hWJMSCs was investigated through cell cycle analysis. Results RECA exerted effects on both proliferation and neural differentiation of hWJMSCs in a dose-dependent manner. RECA reduced the proliferation of hWJMSCs and was cytotoxic to cells above 1600 μg/ml, with IC50 value, 1875 ± 55.67 μg/ml. In parallel with the reduction in cell viability, cell enlargement was also observed at the end of the induction. Cells treated with RECA alone had more obvious protein expression of the neural markers compared to the other groups. Meanwhile, gene expression of the aforementioned markers was detected at low levels across the experimental groups. The supplementation of hWJMSCs with RECA did not change the normal life cycle of the cells. Conclusions Although RECA reduced the proliferation of hWJMSCs, a low dose of RECA (400 μg/ml), alone or in combination of neurotrophic factors (NF + RECA 400 μg/ml), has the potential to differentiate hWJMSCs into Schwann cells and other neural lineage cells. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s12906-019-2581-x) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Limanaqi F, Biagioni F, Busceti CL, Ryskalin L, Polzella M, Frati A, Fornai F. Phytochemicals Bridging Autophagy Induction and Alpha-Synuclein Degradation in Parkinsonism. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:ijms20133274. [PMID: 31277285 PMCID: PMC6651086 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20133274] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2019] [Revised: 06/30/2019] [Accepted: 07/02/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Among nutraceuticals, phytochemical-rich compounds represent a source of naturally-derived bioactive principles, which are extensively studied for potential beneficial effects in a variety of disorders ranging from cardiovascular and metabolic diseases to cancer and neurodegeneration. In the brain, phytochemicals produce a number of biological effects such as modulation of neurotransmitter activity, growth factor induction, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity, stem cell modulation/neurogenesis, regulation of mitochondrial homeostasis, and counteracting protein aggregation through modulation of protein-folding chaperones and the cell clearing systems autophagy and proteasome. In particular, the ability of phytochemicals in restoring proteostasis through autophagy induction took center stage in recent research on neurodegenerative disorders such as Parkinson’s disease (PD). Indeed, autophagy dysfunctions and α-syn aggregation represent two interdependent downstream biochemical events, which concur in the parkinsonian brain, and which are targeted by phytochemicals administration. Therefore, in the present review we discuss evidence about the autophagy-based neuroprotective effects of specific phytochemical-rich plants in experimental parkinsonism, with a special focus on their ability to counteract alpha-synuclein aggregation and toxicity. Although further studies are needed to confirm the autophagy-based effects of some phytochemicals in parkinsonism, the evidence discussed here suggests that rescuing autophagy through natural compounds may play a role in preserving dopamine (DA) neuron integrity by counteracting the aggregation, toxicity, and prion-like spreading of α-syn, which remains a hallmark of PD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fiona Limanaqi
- Human Anatomy, Department of Translational Research and New Technologies in Medicine and Surgery, University of Pisa, Via Roma 55, 56126 Pisa (PI), Italy
| | | | | | - Larisa Ryskalin
- Human Anatomy, Department of Translational Research and New Technologies in Medicine and Surgery, University of Pisa, Via Roma 55, 56126 Pisa (PI), Italy
| | - Maico Polzella
- Aliveda Laboratories, Crespina Lorenzana, 56042 Pisa (PI), Italy
| | | | - Francesco Fornai
- Human Anatomy, Department of Translational Research and New Technologies in Medicine and Surgery, University of Pisa, Via Roma 55, 56126 Pisa (PI), Italy.
- I.R.C.C.S Neuromed, Via Atinense, 86077 Pozzilli (IS), Italy.
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Inverted U-shaped response of a standardized extract of Centella asiatica (ECa 233) on memory enhancement. Sci Rep 2019; 9:8404. [PMID: 31182820 PMCID: PMC6557898 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-44867-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2018] [Accepted: 05/24/2019] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
The herb Centella asiatica has long been considered a memory tonic. A recent review found no strong evidence for improvement of cognitive function, suggesting negative results were due to limitations in dose, standardization and product variation. We used a standardized extract of C. asiatica (ECa 233) to study behavioral, cellular and molecular effects on learning and memory enhancement. ECa 233 (10, 30, and 100 mg/kg) was given orally to normal rats twice a day for 30 days. We used the Morris water maze to test spatial learning and performed acute brain slice recording to measure changes of synaptic plasticity in the hippocampus, a core brain region for memory formation. Plasticity-related protein expressions (NR2A, NR2B, PSD-95, BDNF and TrkB) in hippocampus was also measured. Rats receiving 10 and 30 mg/kg doses showed significantly enhanced memory retention, and hippocampal long-term potentiation; however, only the 30 mg/kg dose showed increased plasticity-related proteins. There was an inverted U-shaped response of ECa 233 on memory enhancement; 30 mg/kg maximally enhanced memory retention with an increase of synaptic plasticity and plasticity-related proteins in hippocampus. Our data clearly support the beneficial effect on memory retention of a standardized extract of Centella asiatica within a specific therapeutic range.
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Nagoor Meeran MF, Goyal SN, Suchal K, Sharma C, Patil CR, Ojha SK. Pharmacological Properties, Molecular Mechanisms, and Pharmaceutical Development of Asiatic Acid: A Pentacyclic Triterpenoid of Therapeutic Promise. Front Pharmacol 2018; 9:892. [PMID: 30233358 PMCID: PMC6131672 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2018.00892] [Citation(s) in RCA: 74] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2018] [Accepted: 07/23/2018] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Asiatic acid (AA) is a naturally occurring aglycone of ursane type pentacyclic triterpenoids. It is abundantly present in many edible and medicinal plants including Centella asiatica that is a reputed herb in many traditional medicine formulations for wound healing and neuropsychiatric diseases. AA possesses numerous pharmacological activities such as antioxidant and anti-inflammatory and regulates apoptosis that attributes its therapeutic effects in numerous diseases. AA showed potent antihypertensive, nootropic, neuroprotective, cardioprotective, antimicrobial, and antitumor activities in preclinical studies. In various in vitro and in vivo studies, AA found to affect many enzymes, receptors, growth factors, transcription factors, apoptotic proteins, and cell signaling cascades. This review aims to represent the available reports on therapeutic potential and the underlying pharmacological and molecular mechanisms of AA. The review also also discusses the challenges and prospects on the pharmaceutical development of AA such as pharmacokinetics, physicochemical properties, analysis and structural modifications, and drug delivery. AA showed favorable pharmacokinetics and found bioavailable following oral or interaperitoneal administration. The studies demonstrate the polypharmacological properties, therapeutic potential and molecular mechanisms of AA in numerous diseases. Taken together the evidences from available studies, AA appears one of the important multitargeted polypharmacological agents of natural origin for further pharmaceutical development and clinical application. Provided the favorable pharmacokinetics, safety, and efficacy, AA can be a promising agent or adjuvant along with currently used modern medicines with a pharmacological basis of its use in therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohamed Fizur Nagoor Meeran
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
| | | | - Kapil Suchal
- Department of Pharmacology, R. C. Patel Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research, Shirpur, India
| | - Charu Sharma
- Department of Internal Meicine, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
| | - Chandragouda R. Patil
- Department of Pharmacology, R. C. Patel Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research, Shirpur, India
| | - Shreesh K. Ojha
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
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