Chlorogenic acid: A dietary phenolic acid with promising pharmacotherapeutic potential

A comprehensive review of the botany, ethnopharmacology, phytochemistry, and pharmacological activities of two Iranian Rydingia species (Lamiaceae)

Rydingia michauxii and R. persica, respectively, known as Kase Gol and Goldar in Persian, belong to the family Lamiaceae and they are well known herbal medicine in Iran for the treatment of various diseases, particularly diabetes. This review aims to appraise the phytochemistry, ethnopharmacology, and pharmacological activities of Rydingia species growing in Iran and assess their potential in clinical applications. Besides, it critically evaluates existing literature and looks into the perspective for further research and utilization. All available scientific literature was consulted using the database searches involving Google Scholar, PubMed, and Web of Science applying the keyword Rydingia and its Syn; Otostegia. Only the search results that are associated with the Iranian species R. michauxii and R. persica are included in this review. α-pinene, carvacrol, caryophyllene oxide, diisooctyl phthalate, dillapiole, eugenol, hexadecanoic acid, and pentacosane are the major constituents of the essential oils of the Rydingia species. Additionally, these species produce bioactive flavonoids, phenolic acids, steroids, and terpenoids. Extracts and active compounds from Rydingia species have been reported to possess various pharmacological activities including antidiabetic, anti-inflammatory, antimalarial, antimicrobial, antioxidant, cytotoxic, and lipid-lowering properties. Based on the information available to date on the Iranian Rydingia species, it will be worth subjecting these species to further developmental work involving preclinical and clinical trials.

Osteogenic mechanism of chlorogenic acid and its application in clinical practice

Natural polyphenols may have a role in counteracting oxidative stress, which is associated with aging and several bone-related diseases. Chlorogenic acid (CGA) is a naturally occurring polyphenolic compound formed by the esterification of caffeic and quininic acids with osteogenic, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties. This review discusses the potential of CGA to enhance osteogenesis by increasing the osteogenic capacity of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), osteoblast survival, proliferation, differentiation, and mineralization, as well as its ability to attenuate osteoclastogenesis by enhancing osteoclast apoptosis and impeding osteoclast regeneration. CGA can be involved in bone remodeling by acting directly on pro-osteoclasts/osteoblasts or indirectly on osteoclasts by activating the nuclear factor kB (RANK)/RANK ligand (RANKL)/acting osteoprotegerin (OPG) system. Finally, we provide perspectives for using CGA to treat bone diseases.

Gilaburu (Viburnum opulus L.) fruit extract has potential therapeutic and prophylactic role in a rat model of acetic acid-induced oxidant colonic damage

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Ulcerative colitis (UC) which has a global impact on the health care system with its recurrent and incompletely curable characteristics, affects the patients' quality of life. Gilaburu (GB; Viburnum opulus L.) is a fruit with rich polyphenol ingredient which is used ethnobotanically in Türkiye for medicinal purposes (for example, to pass kidney stones, to treat stomach, heart, and liver diseases, hemorrhages, hypertension, ulcers, common cold, tuberculosis, rheumatic and menstrual pain, and diabetes). On the other hand, the effects of GB in the experimental UC model have not been studied.

AIM OF THE STUDY

This study aimed to explore the potential antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects of GB fruit extract in improving acetic acid (AA)-induced UC.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Starting immediately after (AA + GB group) or 1 week before (GB + AA + GB group) the colitis induced by intrarectal AA (5%; v/v) administration, the rats orally received GB (100 mg/kg) once per day for 3 days. The control and AA groups were administered orally saline (1 ml), while the AA + SS group were administered sulfasalazine (SS; 100 mg/kg; orally) as a positive control once per day for 3 days. Distal colonic tissue specimens were obtained for the histological and biochemical [myeloperoxidase (MPO), malondialdehyde (MDA), glutathione (GSH), chemiluminescence (CL), caspase-3, 8-hydroxy-2'-deoxyguanosine (8-OHdG), matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-9, transforming growth factor (TGF)-β1, smad-3 and cytokine (tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-6, IL-8, interferon (IFN)-γ), measurements] evaluations on the 3rd day.

RESULTS

Elevated macroscopic and microscopic damage scores, high tissue wet weight values, increased tissue-associated MPO, MDA, CL, caspase-3, 8-OHdG, cytokines (TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6, IL-8), MMP-9, TGF-β1, smad-3 levels, and decreased GSH values of the AA group were all reversed by GB treatments (AA + GB and GB + AA + GB groups) (p < 0.05-0.001). However, sulfasalazine treatment (AA + SS group) did not change the IL-8, 8-OHdG, MMP-9, and TGF-β1 measurements significantly.

CONCLUSIONS

Gilaburu shows both anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects against AA-induced colonic damage by suppressing neutrophil infiltration, regulating inflammatory mediators, inhibiting reactive species production, lipid peroxidation, and apoptosis, conserving endogenous antioxidant glutathione, and ameliorating oxidative DNA damage. Since the current ulcerative colitis drugs display limited benefits and adverse side effects, potential therapeutic and/or prophylactic role of gilaburu can be evaluated in ulcerative colitis.

Reducing the allergenicity of tropomyosin in shrimp by covalent conjugation with quercetin and chlorogenic acid

The study aimed to assay the allergenicity of shrimp tropomyosin (TM) following covalent conjugation with quercetin (QR) and chlorogenic acid (CA). The structure of the TM-polyphenol covalent conjugates was examined by sodium dodecyl sulfate polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS-PAGE), circular dichroism (CD), fluorescence, differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), and Fourier Transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). Potential allergenicity was evaluated using in vitro and in vivo methods. The results showed that QR and CA induced structural changes in TM through aggregation. RBL-2H3 cell results showed that TM-QR and TM-CA covalent conjugates reduced the release of β-hexosaminidase and histamine, respectively. In the mice model, TM-QR and TM-CA covalent conjugates reduced the level of IgE, IgG, IgG1, histamine, and mMCP-1 in sera. Furthermore, the allergenicity was reduced by suppressing Th2-related cytokines (IL-4, IL-5, IL-13) and promoting Th1-related cytokines (IFN-γ). These research findings demonstrate that the covalent binding of TM with QR and CA, modifies the allergenic epitopes of shrimp TM, thereby reducing its potential allergenicity. This approach holds practical applications in the production of low-allergenicity food within the food industry.

Antioxidant potential of chlorogenic acid in Age-Related eye diseases

Oxidative stress is an important mechanism of aging, and in turn, aging can also aggravate oxidative stress, which leads to a vicious cycle. In the process of the brain converting light into visual signals, the eye is stimulated by harmful blue-light radiation directly. Thus, the eye is especially vulnerable to oxidative stress and becomes one of the organs most seriously involved during the aging process. Cataracts, age-related macular degeneration (AMD), glaucoma, diabetic retinopathy (DR), and dry eye are inextricably linked to the aging process and oxidative stress. Chlorogenic acid (CGA) has been demonstrated to have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities, and its validity has been established experimentally in numerous fields, including cardiovascular disease, metabolic disorders, cancers, and other chronic diseases. There has previously been evidence of CGA's therapeutic effect in the field of ophthalmopathy. Considering that many ophthalmic drugs lead to systemic side effects, CGA may act as a natural exogenous antioxidant for patients to take regularly, controlling their condition while minimizing side effects. In this paper, in vitro and in vivo studies of CGA in the treatment of age-related eye diseases are reviewed, and the prospects of CGA's antioxidant application for the eye are discussed. The aim of this review is to summarize the relevant knowledge and provide theoretical support for future research.

Chlorogenic acid inhibits macrophage PANoptosis induced by cefotaxime-resistant Escherichia coli

Antibiotics are commonly used in clinical practice to treat bacterial infections. Due to the abuse of antibiotics, the emergence of drug-resistant strains, such as cefotaxime sodium-resistant Escherichia coli (CSR-EC), has aggravated the treatment of diseases caused by bacterial infections in the clinic. Therefore, discovering new drug candidates with unique mechanisms of action is imperative. Chlorogenic acid (CGA) is an active component of Yinhua Pinggan Granule, which has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. We chose the CGA to explore its effects on PANoptosis in cultured macrophages infected with CSR-EC. In this study, we explored the protective impact of CGA on macrophage cell damage generated by CSR-EC infection and the potential molecular mechanistic consequences of post-infection therapy with CGA on the PANoptosis pathway. Our findings demonstrated that during CSR-EC-induced macrophage infection, CGA dramatically increased cell survival. CGA can inhibit pro-inflammatory cytokine expression of IL-1β, IL-18, TNF-α, and IL-6. CGA decreased ROS generation and increased Nrf-2 expression at the gene and protein levels to lessen the cell damage and death brought on by CSR-EC infection. Additionally, we discovered that the proteins Caspase-3, Caspase-7, Caspase-8, Caspase-1, GSDMD, NLRP-3, RIPK-3, and MLKL were all inhibited by CGA. In summary, our research suggests that CGA is a contender for reducing lesions brought on by CSR-EC infections and that it can work in concert with antibiotics to treat CSR-EC infections clinically. However, further research on its mechanism of action is still needed.

Influence of maturation and roasting on the quality and chemical composition of new conilon coffee cultivar by chemometrics

Coffee is one of the most consumed beverages worldwide. Espírito Santo is the largest Brazilian producer of conilon coffee, and invested in the creation of new cultivars, such as "Conquista ES8152", launched in 2019. Therefore, the present study aimed to evaluate the effects of maturation and roasting on the chemical and sensorial composition of the new conilon coffee cultivar "Conquista ES8152". The coffee was harvested containing 3 different percentages of ripe fruits: 60%, 80%, and 100%, and roasted at 3 different degrees of roasting: light, medium, and dark, to evaluate the moisture and ash content, yield of soluble extract, volatile compound profile, chlorogenic acid and caffeine content, and sensory profile. "Conquista ES8152" coffee has a moisture content between 1.38 and 2.62%; ash between 4.34 and 4.72%; and yield between 30.7 and 35.8%. Sensory scores ranged between 75 and 80 and the majority of volatile compounds belong to the pyrazine, phenol, furan, and pyrrole groups. The content of total chlorogenic acids was drastically reduced by roasting, with values between 2.40 and 9.33%, with 3-caffeoylquinic acid being the majority. Caffeine was not influenced by either maturation or roasting, with values between 2.16 and 2.41%. The volatile compounds furfural, 5-methylfurfural, and 2-ethyl-5-methylpyrazine were positively correlated with the evaluated sensory attributes and 5-methylfurfural was the only one significantly correlated with all attributes. Ethylpyrazine, furfuryl acetate, 1-furfurylpyrrole, 4-ethyl-2-methoxyphenol, and difurfuryl ether were negatively correlated. The stripping did not affect the quality and composition of this new cultivar, however, the roasting caused changes in both the chemical and sensorial profiles, appropriately indicated by the principal component analysis.

Emerging Role of Plant-Based Bioactive Compounds as Therapeutics in Parkinson's Disease

Neurological ailments, including stroke, Alzheimer's disease (AD), epilepsy, Parkinson's disease (PD), and other related diseases, have affected around 1 billion people globally to date. PD stands second among the common neurodegenerative diseases caused as a result of dopaminergic neuron loss in the midbrain's substantia nigra regions. It affects cognitive and motor activities, resulting in tremors during rest, slow movement, and muscle stiffness. There are various traditional approaches for the management of PD, but they provide only symptomatic relief. Thus, a survey for finding new biomolecules or substances exhibiting the therapeutic potential to patients with PD is the main focus of present-day research. Medicinal plants, herbal formulations, and natural bioactive molecules have been gaining much more attention in recent years as synthetic molecules orchestrate a number of undesired effects. Several in vitro, in vivo, and in silico studies in the recent past have demonstrated the therapeutic potential of medicinal plants, herbal formulations, and plant-based bioactives. Among the plant-based bioactives, polyphenols, terpenes, and alkaloids are of particular interest due to their potent anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and brain-health-promoting properties. Further, there are no concise, elaborated articles comprising updated mechanism-of-action-based reviews of the published literature on potent, recently investigated (2019-2023) medicinal plants, herbal formulations, and plant based-bioactive molecules, including polyphenols, terpenes, and alkaloids, as a method for the management of PD. Therefore, we designed the current review to provide an illustration of the efficacious role of various medicinal plants, herbal formulations, and bioactives (polyphenols, terpenes, and alkaloids) that can become potential therapeutics against PD with greater specificity, target approachability, bioavailability, and safety to the host. This information can be further utilized in the future to develop several value-added formulations and nutraceutical products to achieve the desired safety and efficacy for the management of PD.

In Vitro and In Vivo Evaluation for Antioxidant and Anti-Diabetic Properties of Cyperus rotundus L. Kombucha

Cyperus rotundus L. exhibits promising potential for the development of functional foods due to its documented pharmacological and biological activities. This study investigated the antioxidant and anti-diabetic properties of C. rotundus kombucha. The results demonstrated potent antioxidant activity with an IC50 value of 76.7 ± 9.6 µL/mL for the DPPH assay and 314.2 ± 16.9 µL/mL for the ABTS assay. Additionally, the kombucha demonstrated alpha-glucosidase inhibitory with an IC50 value of 142.7 ± 5.2 µL/mL. This in vitro antioxidant potential was further validated in vivo using Drosophila. Drosophila fed a high-sugar diet and supplemented with pure kombucha revealed significant increases in DPPH and ABTS free radical scavenging activity. Drosophila on a high-sugar diet supplemented with varying kombucha concentrations manifested enhanced resistance to oxidative stresses induced by H2O2 and paraquat. Concurrently, there was a notable decline in lipid peroxidation levels. Additionally, significant upregulations in CAT, SOD1, and SOD2 activities were observed when the high-sugar diet was supplemented with kombucha. Furthermore, in vivo assessments using Drosophila demonstrated significant reductions in alpha-glucosidase activity when fed with kombucha (reduced by 34.04%, 13.79%, and 11.60% when treated with 100%, 40%, and 10% kombucha, respectively). A comprehensive GC-MS and HPLC analysis of C. rotundus kombucha detected the presence of antioxidative and anti-glucosidase compounds. In conclusion, C. rotundus kombucha exhibits considerable antioxidant and anti-diabetic properties, demonstrating its potential as a beneficial beverage for health promotion.

Anti-obesity effects of chlorogenic acid and caffeine- lipid nanoparticles through PPAR-γ/C/EBP-ɑ pathways

Obesity is considered one of the most crucial health problems of the century. Therefore, reducing obesity is critically important. Caffeine (CF) and chlorogenic acid (CLA), which are substantial components in green bean coffee which maximize thermogenesis in brown adipose tissue. In our study, we have prepared CF, CLA, and CF + CLA loaded-solid lipid nanoparticles (SLN) since the SLNs are cost-effective, tissue-localized, and highly stable. The central composite design model was preferred to select the optimized formulation. UHPLC was used for quantification related to the CF and CLA amounts. The high-pressure homogenization (HPH) method was used while SLN formulations were prepared in the presence of poloxamer® 407 (surfactant) and Compritol® 888 ATO (solid lipid). The nanoparticles were characterized, followed by the utilization of 3T3-F442A cell lines for the evaluation of the adipogenesis activity of the formulations. Then, rt-PCR and ELISA studies of adipogenic markers were conducted. After optimal formulations were selected with an average of 110.2 ± 0.1 nm, CF (1 mM) + CLA (0.5 mM)-loaded SLN formulation has been proven significantly effective by using PPAR-γ/C/EBP-a pathways. In a nutshell, our study has shown that CF + CLA loaded-SLN has been affected 45.8% times more than regular extracted coffee (p < 0.05) on the adipocyte cells.

Determination of Phenolic Acids Using Ultra-High-Performance Liquid Chromatography Coupled with Triple Quadrupole (UHPLC-QqQ) in Fruiting Bodies of Sanghuangporus baumii (Pilát) L.W. Zhou and Y.C. Dai

Sanghuangporus, a medicinal mushroom, has gained significant attention due to its beneficial properties. Phenolic acids are among the major bioactive compounds in Sanghuangporus, known for their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities. To precisely quantify the phenolic acid content, we developed a method utilizing ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography with triple quadrupole (UHPLC-QqQ). This study optimized the UHPLC-QqQ conditions to simultaneously separate and detect eight phenolic acids in Sanghuangporus baumii (Pilát) L.W. Zhou and Y.C. Dai, including chlorogenic acid, p-coumaric acid, caffeic acid, cryptochlorogenic acid, protocatechuic acid, ferulic acid, sinapic acid, and syringic acid. The separation process utilized a ZORBAX Eclipse Plus C18 column using 0.01% formic acid and 2 mmol/L ammonium formate in water as the aqueous phase and methanol containing 0.01% formic acid and 2 mmol/L ammonium formate as the organic phase. Calibration curves were constructed using standard solutions to quantitatively determine the phenolic acid content. The results showed significant variation in phenolic acid content among S. baumii fruiting bodies, with Protocatechuic acid, p-coumaric acid, and caffeic acid being the most abundant. This method is valuable for quantifying phenolic acid compounds under different cultivation conditions. It provides excellent sensitivity, selectivity, and reproducibility for the quantification of phenolic acids in Sanghuangporus, contributing to a better understanding of its chemical composition and potential health benefits. This approach represents a novel technical means for the simultaneous analysis of compound phenolic acids in Sanghuangporus fruiting bodies.

Opuntia ficus-indica (L.) Mill. - anticancer properties and phytochemicals: current trends and future perspectives

Cancer is a leading cause of mortality worldwide, and conventional cancer therapies such as chemotherapy and radiotherapy often result in undesirable and adverse effects. Natural products have emerged as a promising alternative for cancer treatment, with comparatively fewer side effects reported. Opuntia ficus-indica (L.) Mill., a member of the Cactaceae family, contains a diverse array of phytochemicals, including flavonoids, polyphenols, betalains, and tannins, which have been shown to exhibit potent anticancer properties. Various parts of the Opuntia plant, including the fruits, stems/cladodes, and roots, have demonstrated cytotoxic effects against malignant cell lines in numerous studies. This review comprehensively summarizes the anticancer attributes of the phytochemicals found in Opuntia ficus-indica (L.) Mill., highlighting their potential as natural cancer prevention and treatment agents. Bibliometric metric analysis of PubMed and Scopus-retrieved data using VOSviewer as well as QDA analysis provide further insights and niche to be explored. Most anticancer studies on Opuntia ficus-indica and its purified metabolites are related to colorectal/colon cancer, followed by melanoma and breast cancer. Very little attention has been paid to leukemia, thyroid, endometrial, liver, and prostate cancer, and it could be considered an opportunity for researchers to explore O. ficus-indica and its metabolites against these cancers. The most notable mechanisms expressed and validated in those studies are apoptosis, cell cycle arrest (G0/G1 and G2/M), Bcl-2 modulation, antiproliferative, oxidative stress-mediated mechanisms, and cytochrome c. We have also observed that cladodes and fruits of O. ficus-indica have been more studied than other plant parts, which again opens the opportunity for the researchers to explore. Further, cell line-based studies dominated, and very few studies were related to animal-based experiments. The Zebrafish model is another platform to explore. However, it seems like more in-depth studies are required to ascertain clinical utility of this biosustainable resource O. ficus-indica.

Rowanberry-A Source of Bioactive Compounds and Their Biopharmaceutical Properties

After a period of intense development in the synthesis pharmaceutical industry, plants are making a comeback in the public focus as remedies or therapeutic adjuvants and in disease prevention and ensuring the wellbeing and equilibrium of the human body. Plants are being recommended more and more in alimentation, in their natural form, or as extracts, supplements or functional aliments. People, in general, are in search of new sources of nutrients and phytochemicals. As a result, scientific research turns to lesser known and used plants, among them being rowanberries, a species of fruit very rich in nutrients and underused due to their bitter astringent taste and a lack of knowledge regarding the beneficial effects of these fruit. Rowan fruits (rowanberries) are a rich source of vitamins, polysaccharides, organic acids and minerals. They are also a source of natural polyphenols, which are often correlated with the prevention and treatment of modern world diseases. This article presents the existing data regarding the chemical composition, active principles and biopharmaceutical properties of rowan fruits and the different opportunities for their usage.

Polyphenols in Plants: Structure, Biosynthesis, Abiotic Stress Regulation, and Practical Applications (Review)

Phenolic compounds or polyphenols are among the most common compounds of secondary metabolism in plants. Their biosynthesis is characteristic of all plant cells and is carried out with the participation of the shikimate and acetate-malonate pathways. In this case, polyphenols of various structures are formed, such as phenylpropanoids, flavonoids, and various oligomeric and polymeric compounds of phenolic nature. Their number already exceeds 10,000. The diversity of phenolics affects their biological activity and functional role. Most of their representatives are characterized by interaction with reactive oxygen species, which manifests itself not only in plants but also in the human body, where they enter through food chains. Having a high biological activity, phenolic compounds are successfully used as medicines and nutritional supplements for the health of the population. The accumulation and biosynthesis of polyphenols in plants depend on many factors, including physiological-biochemical, molecular-genetic, and environmental factors. In the review, we present the latest literature data on the structure of various classes of phenolic compounds, their antioxidant activity, and their biosynthesis, including their molecular genetic aspects (genes and transfactors). Since plants grow with significant environmental changes on the planet, their response to the action of abiotic factors (light, UV radiation, temperature, and heavy metals) at the level of accumulation and composition of these secondary metabolites, as well as their metabolic regulation, is considered. Information is given about plant polyphenols as important and necessary components of functional nutrition and pharmaceutically valuable substances for the health of the population. Proposals on promising areas of research and development in the field of plant polyphenols are presented.

Mechanism and recent updates on insulin-related disorders

Insulin, a small protein with 51 amino acids synthesized by pancreatic β-cells, is crucial to sustain glucose homeostasis at biochemical and molecular levels. Numerous metabolic dysfunctions are related to insulin-mediated altered glucose homeostasis. One of the significant pathophysiological conditions linked to the insulin associated disorder is diabetes mellitus (DM) (type 1, type 2, and gestational). Insulin resistance (IR) is one of the major underlying causes of metabolic disorders despite its association with several physiological conditions. Metabolic syndrome (MS) is another pathophysiological condition that is associated with IR, hypertension, and obesity. Further, several other pathophysiological disorders/diseases are associated with the insulin malfunctioning, which include polycystic ovary syndrome, neuronal disorders, and cancer. Insulinomas are an uncommon type of pancreatic β-cell-derived neuroendocrine tumor that makes up 2% of all pancreatic neoplasms. Literature revealed that different biochemical events, molecular signaling pathways, microRNAs, and microbiota act as connecting links between insulin disorder and associated pathophysiology such as DM, insuloma, neurological disorder, MS, and cancer. In this review, we focus on the insulin-related disorders and the underlying mechanisms associated with the pathophysiology.

Polyphenolic profiles of a variety of wild berries from the Pacific Northwest region of North America

Polyphenols have been extensively profiled and quantified in commercially grown berries, but similar information is sparsely available for wild berries. Because polyphenolic contents are inherently associated with berries health benefits, determining phenolic profiles is an important step for strategizing potential uses by the industry and for health and nutrition outcomes. Here, we profiled phenolic compounds in wild berries commonly encountered and harvested in the Pacific Northwest region of North America. Huckleberries (Vaccinium membranaceum) of varying phenotypes were found to be comparable to related blueberries in terms of general phenolic classes composition. However, all huckleberries exhibited markedly high levels of cyanidins, and delphinidins or peonidins were also higher in specific phenotypes. Wild black elderberries (Sambucus nigra spp. Canadensis) were found to have remarkably high phenolic, especially anthocyanins, in line with reports from cultivated elderberries. Saskatoon serviceberries (Amelanchier alnifolia) were found to exhibit high polyphenol content, but with a less diverse profile dominated by quercetin. The most intriguing berry may be the Oregon grape (Mahonia Aquifolium) being the only one exhibiting more than one g of polyphenols per 100 g; as well as a remarkably even distribution of the different anthocyanin classes. All colored wild berries were found to have at minimum comparable total phenolic contents when compared to cultivated and other wild berries, suggesting they should exhibit comparable human health benefits such as antioxidant and metabolic syndrome preventative potential described for these other berries. Overall, our data represents a valuable resource to explore the potential to valorize wild berry species for their specific phenolic profiles and predicted nutritional and health properties. With repeated phenolic profiling to better understand the impact of the environment, the wild berries described here hold promises both as food ingredient applications as well as valuable complement for healthy dietary patterns.

Momordicae Semen inhibits migration and induces apoptotic cell death by regulating c-Myc and CNOT2 in human pancreatic cancer cells

Pancreatic cancer(PC) is less common than other cancers; however, it has a poor prognosis. Therefore, studying novel target signaling and anticancer agents is necessary. Momordicae Semen (MS), the seed of Momordica sochinensis Spreng, mainly found in South-East Asia, including China and Bangladesh, is used to treat various diseases because of its anticancer, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antibacterial properties. However, the effect of the MS extract on pancreatic cancer cells remains unknown. In this study investigated whether the MS extract exerted an anti-cancer effect by regulating c-Myc through CNOT2. Cytotoxicity and proliferation were investigated using MTT and colony formation assays. The levels of apoptotic, oncogenic, and migration-associated factors were confirmed using immunoblotting and immunofluorescence. Wound closure was analyzed using a wound healing assay. The chemical composition of the MS methanol extracts was analyzed using liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry. We confirmed that the MS extract regulated apoptotic factors and attenuated the stability of c-Myc and its sensitivity to fetal bovine serum. Furthermore, the MS extract increased apoptosis by regulating c-Myc and CNOT2 expression and enhanced the sensitivity of 5-FU in pancreatic cancer. This study showed that the MS extract is a promising new drug for PC.

Molecular signalling during cross talk between gut brain axis regulation and progression of irritable bowel syndrome: A comprehensive review

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a chronic functional disorder which alters gastrointestinal (GI) functions, thus leading to compromised health status. Pathophysiology of IBS is not fully understood, whereas abnormal gut brain axis (GBA) has been identified as a major etiological factor. Recent studies are suggestive for visceral hyper-sensitivity, altered gut motility and dysfunctional autonomous nervous system as the main clinical abnormalities in IBS patients. Bidirectional signalling interactions among these abnormalities are derived through various exogenous and endogenous factors, such as microbiota population and diversity, microbial metabolites, dietary uptake, and psychological abnormalities. Strategic efforts focused to study these interactions including probiotics, antibiotics and fecal transplantations in normal and germ-free animals are clearly suggestive for the pivotal role of gut microbiota in IBS etiology. Additionally, neurotransmitters act as communication tools between enteric microbiota and brain functions, where serotonin (5-hydroxytryptamine) plays a key role in pathophysiology of IBS. It regulates GI motility, pain sense and inflammatory responses particular to mucosal and brain activity. In the absence of a better understanding of various interconnected crosstalks in GBA, more scientific efforts are required in the search of novel and targeted therapies for the management of IBS. In this review, we have summarized the gut microbial composition, interconnected signalling pathways and their regulators, available therapeutics, and the gaps needed to fill for a better management of IBS.

Therapeutic Effects and Molecular Mechanism of Chlorogenic Acid on Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome: Role of HIF-1alpha

Chlorogenic acid (CGA) is a powerful antioxidant polyphenol molecule found in many diets and liquid beverages, playing a preventive and therapeutic role in various diseases caused by oxidative stress and inflammation. Recent research has found that CGA can not only improve clinical symptoms in PCOS patients but also improve follicular development, hormone status, and oxidative stress in PCOS rats, indicating the therapeutic effect of CGA on PCOS. Notably, our previous series of studies has demonstrated the expression changes and regulatory mechanisms of HIF-1alpha signaling in PCOS ovaries. Considering the regulatory effect of CGA on the HIF-1alpha pathway, the present article systematically elucidates the therapeutic role and molecular mechanisms of HIF-1alpha signaling during the treatment of PCOS by CGA, including follicular development, steroid synthesis, inflammatory response, oxidative stress, and insulin resistance, in order to further understand the mechanisms of CGA effects in different types of diseases and to provide a theoretical basis for further promoting CGA-rich diets and beverages simultaneously.

Anti-proliferative, apoptosis inducing, and antioxidant potential of Callistemon lanceolatus bark extracts: an in vitro and in silico study

The present study reports anticancer and antioxidant activities of Callistemon lanceolatus bark extracts. Anticancer activity was studied against MDA-MB-231 cells. Antioxidant assessment of the chloroform and methanol extracts showed considerable free radical scavenging, metal ion chelating, and reducing power potential. Chloroform extract exhibited potent inhibition of cancer cell proliferation in MTT assay (IC₅₀ 9.6 μg/ml) and promoted programmed cell death. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation, mitochondria membrane potential (MMP) disruption ability, and nuclear morphology changes were studied using H₂-DCFDA, JC-1, and Hoechst dyes, respectively, using confocal microscopy. Apoptotic cells exhibited fragmented nuclei, increased ROS generation, and altered MMP in dose- and time-dependent manner. Chloroform extract upregulated the BAX-1 and CASP3 mRNA expression coupled with downregulation of BCL-2 gene. Further, in silico docking of phytochemicals present in C. lanceolatus with anti-apoptotic Bcl-2 protein endorsed apoptosis by its inhibition and thus corroborated the experimental findings. Obatoclax, a known inhibitor of Bcl-2 was used as a reference compounds.

Modulatory effect of caffeic acid in alleviating diabetes and associated complications

Diabetes mellitus (DM) is one of the most common metabolic disorders characterized by elevated blood glucose levels. Prolonged uncontrolled hyperglycemia often leads to multi-organ damage including diabetic neuropathy, nephropathy, retinopathy, cardiovascular disorders, and diabetic foot ulcers. Excess production of free radicals causing oxidative stress in tissues is often considered to be the primary cause of onset and progression of DM and associated complications. Natural polyphenols can be used to induce or inhibit the expression of antioxidant enzymes such as glutathione peroxidase, heme oxygenase-1, superoxide dismutase, and catalase that are essential in maintaining redox balance, and ameliorate oxidative stress. Caffeic acid (CA) is a polyphenolderived from hydroxycinnamic acid and possesses numerous physiological properties includ-ing antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-atherosclerotic, immune-stimulatory, cardioprotective, antiproliferative, and hepatoprotective activities. CA acts as a regulatory compound affecting numerous biochemical pathways and multiple targets. These include various transcription factors such as nuclear factor-B, tumor necrosis factor-α, interleukin-6, cyclooxygenase-2, and nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2. Therefore, this review summarizes the pharmacological properties, molecular mechanisms, and pharmacokinetic profile of CA in mitigating the adverse effects of DM and associated complications. The bioavailability, drug delivery, and clinical trials of CA have also been discussed.

Bioactive compounds in childhood obesity and associated metabolic complications: Current evidence, controversies and perspectives

Obesity represents the most frequent chronic disease among children worldwide, with a significant global burden on society. Metabolically unhealthy obesity (MUO) can affect children since their first years of life, and novel therapeutic strategies to tackle metabolic complications are under investigation. This review focuses on bioactive compounds and their possible beneficial effects on obesity, particularly omega-3, docosahexaenoic acid, vitamin D, biotics, polysaccharide macromolecules, polyphenols, inositols, alpha lipoic acid, and bromelaine. Our aim is to summarize current evidence about bioactive compounds in the treatment of obesity, highlighting recent findings on their use in children and adolescents. Most studied molecules are omega-3 and vitamin D, despite the heterogeneity between the studies. Moreover, given the emerging interest in the gut-brain axis in the link between metabolic health and microbiota, various studies on prebiotics, probiotics, synbiotics, postbiotics and polysaccharide macromolecules have been considered. Some preclinical studies seem to highlight a possible role of the polyphenols, even if their clinical evidence is still discussed. Lastly, we describe possible effects of inositols and alpha-lipoic acid. Despite some dietary supplements seem to be promising in overweight subjects, only in a few of them a dose/response efficacy has been found in the pediatric age. Innovative, well-designed and targeted clinical trials are then needed to prove the beneficial effects of these compounds that could support the standard behavioral therapy for obesity.

Effects of chlorogenic acid on antimicrobial, antivirulence, and anti-quorum sensing of carbapenem-resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae

The rise in infections caused by the hypervirulent carbapenem-resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae (hv-CRKP) is an emergent threat to public health. We assessed the effects of chlorogenic acid (CA), a natural phenolic compound, on antibacterial, antivirulence, and anti-quorum sensing (QS) of hv-CRKP. Five hv-CRKP were selected for antimicrobial susceptibility test and confirmed to carry virulence genes and carbapenem-resistant genes by polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Subsequently, a series of time-kill assay, determinations of protease activity and capsule content, biofilm-related experiment, scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and transmission electron microscope (TEM) observation, G. mellonella infection model, quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR) of QS-related genes and biofilm formation genes, as well as AI-2 binding test were conduct to verify the effect of CA on hv-CRKP. Five CRKP strains showed varying degrees of resistance to antibacterial agents. All strains carried the bla _KPC-2 gene, primarily carrying rmpA2, iucA, and peg-344. CA showed no effect on CRKP growth at the 1/2 minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC), 1/4 MIC, and 1/8 MIC, CA could reduce the production of extracellular protease and capsular polysaccharides, and improve the survival rate of larvae in Galleria mellonella (G. mellonella) infection model. By means of crystal violet staining and scanning electron microscopy experiments, we observed that CA can inhibit the formation of CRKP biofilm. On the quantitative real-time PCR analysis, the expression of the luxS, mrkA and wbbm genes in most CRKP strains appeared downregulated because of the CA treatment. Besides, CA significantly inhibited the effect of AI-2 activity of BB170. Our study suggests that CA can be an effective antimicrobial, antivirulent compound that can target QS in hv-CRKP infections, thus providing a new therapeutic direction for treating bacterial infections.