Exploring the Mechanism of Flavonoids Through Systematic Bioinformatics Analysis

Flavonoids and their metal complexes as potential agents for diabetes mellitus with future perspectives

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a global health burden, with hyperglycemia as the main hallmark. This review commences with a concise overview of the intricate mechanisms underlying glucose uptake and utilization in organisms. Notably, we emphasize that T2DM management strategies pivot on delaying carbohydrate digestion, augmenting insulin secretion, and enhancing insulin sensitivity in target tissues. Unfortunately, the drugs currently available in the market for the treatment of T2DM have unpleasant side effects, spurring an urgent quest for safer and more efficacious alternatives. Flavonoids, emerging as a promising class of bioactive compounds derived from plants, offer a multi-faceted approach to diabetes treatment. Specifically, they potently inhibit enzymes such as α-amylase, α-glucosidase, dipeptidyl peptidase-4 (DPP-4), glycogen phosphorylase (GP) and protein-tyrosine phosphatase-1B (PTP1B). Through an in-depth analysis, this review not only summarizes these inhibitory actions but also establishes the structure-activity relationship (SAR), providing a blueprint for rational drug design. However, the clinical translation of flavonoids has been hampered by their suboptimal water solubility and bioavailability, attributable to the characteristic carbonyl and hydroxyl groups. Ingeniously, this chemical quirk has been harnessed to engineer metal chelates, which exhibit enhanced pharmacokinetic profiles. Herein, we offer an exhaustive overview of the latest advancements in flavonoid metal complexes research, spotlighting their potential as next-generation diabetes therapeutics. Available data are poised to galvanize the development of novel flavonoid derivatives, be it as potent drugs or functional foods, for combating T2DM.

Mechanistic Insights into the Anticancer Potential of Methoxyflavones Analogs: A Review

2-phenylchromen-4-one, commonly known as flavone, plays multifaceted roles in biological response that can be abundantly present in natural sources. The methoxy group in naturally occurring flavones promotes cytotoxic activity in various cancer cell lines by targeting protein markers, in facilitating ligand-protein binding mechanisms and activating cascading downstream signaling pathways leading to cell death. However, the lipophilic nature of these analogs is a key concern as it impacts drug membrane transfer. While lipophilicity is crucial for drug efficacy, the excessive lipophilic effects in flavonoids can reduce water solubility and hinder drug transport to target sites. Recent in vitro studies suggest that the incorporation of polar hydroxyl groups which can form hydrogen bonds and stabilize free radicals may help overcome the challenges associated with methoxy groups while maintaining their essential lipophilic properties. Naturally coexisting with methoxyflavones, this review explores the synergistic role of hydroxy and methoxy moieties through hydrogen bonding capacity in maximizing cytotoxicity against cancer cell lines. The physicochemical analysis revealed the potential intramolecular interaction and favorable electron delocalization region between both moieties to improve cytotoxicity levels. Together, the analysis provides a useful strategy for the structure-activity relationship (SAR) of flavonoid analogs in distinct protein markers, suggesting optimal functional group positioning to achieve balanced lipophilicity, effective hydrogen bonding, and simultaneously minimized steric hindrance in targeting specific cancer cell types.

Phytochemicals and Their Nanoformulations for Targeting Hepatocellular Carcinoma: Exploring Potential and Targeting Strategies

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) continues to pose a global health concern, necessitating the exploration of innovative therapeutic approaches. In the recent decade, targeting tumor stroma consisting of extracellular matrix (ECM), immune cells, vascular system, hypoxia, and also suppressive mechanisms in HCC has attracted interest in repressing tumor growth and metastasis. Phytochemicals have attained considerable attention because of their manifold biological effects and high capacity for anticancer activities. These chemical agents have shown the capability to modulate different cells and secretions within the stroma of malignancies. In recent years, the development of nanoformulations has further enhanced the therapeutic potential of phytochemicals by improving their solubility, bioavailability, and targeted delivery to tumor tissues. This review aims to provide an encyclopedic overview of the potential of phytochemicals and their nanoformulations as promising therapeutic strategies for targeting HCC. The review initially highlights the broad array of phytochemicals exhibiting potent anticancer properties, including flavonoids, alkaloids, terpenoids, and phenolic compounds, among others. Then, the nanoformulations and modification of these agents will be reviewed. Finally, we will review the latest experiments that have examined the modulation of HCC using adjuvant phytochemicals and their nanoformulations.

Herbal Therapies for Cancer Treatment: A Review of Phytotherapeutic Efficacy

Natural products have proven to be promising anti-cancer agents due to their diverse chemical structures and bioactivity. This review examines their central role in cancer treatment, focusing on their mechanisms of action and therapeutic benefits. Medicinal plants contain bioactive compounds, such as flavonoids, alkaloids, terpenoids and polyphenols, which exhibit various anticancer properties. These compounds induce apoptosis, inhibit cell proliferation and cell cycle progression, interfere with microtubule formation, act on topoisomerase targets, inhibit angiogenesis, modulate key signaling pathways, improve the tumor microenvironment, reverse drug resistance and activate immune cells. Herbal anti-cancer drugs offer therapeutic advantages, particularly selective toxicity against cancer cells, reducing the adverse side effects associated with conventional chemotherapy. Recent studies and clinical trials highlight the benefits of herbal medicines in alleviating side effects, improving tolerance to chemotherapy and the occurrence of synergistic effects with conventional treatments. For example, the herbal medicine SH003 was found to be safe and potentially effective in the treatment of solid cancers, while Fucoidan showed anti-inflammatory properties that are beneficial for patients with advanced cancer. The current research landscape on herbal anticancer agents is extensive. Numerous studies and clinical trials are investigating their efficacy, safety and mechanisms of action in various cancers such as lung, prostate, breast and hepatocellular carcinoma. Promising developments include the polypharmacological approach, combination therapies, immunomodulation and the improvement of quality of life. However, there are still challenges in the development and use of natural products as anti-cancer drugs, such as the need for further research into their mechanisms of action, possible drug interactions and optimal dosage. Standardizing herbal extracts, improving bioavailability and delivery, and overcoming regulatory and acceptance hurdles are critical issues that need to be addressed. Nonetheless, the promising anticancer effects and therapeutic benefits of natural products warrant further investigation and development. Multidisciplinary collaboration is essential to advance herbal cancer therapy and integrate these agents into mainstream cancer treatment.

Phyto-therapeutics as anti-cancer agents in breast cancer: Pathway targeting and mechanistic elucidation

Cancer of the breast is the mainly prevalent class of cancer in females diagnosed over the globe. It also happens to be the 2nd most prevalent reason of cancer-related deaths among females worldwide. Some of the most common type's therapies for carcinoma of the breast involve radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and resection. Many studies are being conducted to develop new therapeutic strategies for better diagnosis of breast cancer. An enormous number of anticancer medications have been developed as a result of growing understanding of the molecular pathways behind the advancement of cancer. Over the past few decades, the general survival rate has not greatly increased due to the usage of chemically manufactured medications. Therefore, in order to increase the effectiveness of current cancer treatments, new tactics and cutting-edge chemoprevention drugs are required. Phytochemicals, which are naturally occurring molecules derived from plants, are important sources for both cancer therapy and innovative medication development. These phytochemicals frequently work by controlling molecular pathways linked to the development and spread of cancer. Increasing antioxidant status, inactivating carcinogens, preventing proliferation, causing cell cycle arrest and apoptosis, and immune system control are some of the specific ways. This primary objective of this review is to provide an overview of the active ingredients found in natural goods, including information on their pharmacologic action, molecular targets, and current state of knowledge. We have given a thorough description of a number of natural substances that specifically target the pathways linked to breast carcinoma in this study. We've conducted a great deal of study on a few natural compounds that may help us identify novel targets for the detection of breast carcinoma.

Flavonoids as promising molecules in the cancer therapy: An insight

Cancer continues to increase global morbidity and mortality rates. Despite substantial progress in the development of various chemically synthesized anti-cancer drugs, the poor prognosis of the disease still remains a big challenge. The most common drawback of conventional cancer therapies is the emergence of drug resistance eventually leading to the discontinuation of chemotherapy. Moreover, advanced target-specific therapies including immunotherapy and stem cell therapy are expensive enough and are unaffordable for most patients in poorer nations. Therefore, alternative and cheaper therapeutic strategies are needed to complement the current cancer treatment approaches. Phytochemicals are bioactive compounds produced naturally by plants and have great potential in human health and disease. These compounds possess antiproliferative, anti-oxidant, and immunomodulatory properties. Among the phytochemicals, flavonoids are very effective in treating a wide range of diseases from cardiovascular diseases and immunological disorders to cancer. They scavenge reactive oxygen species (ROS), inhibit cancer metastasis, modulate the immune system and induce apoptotic or autophagic cell death in cancers. This review will discuss the potential of various phytochemicals particularly flavonoids in attempts to target various cancers.

Bergamot juice powder with high bioactive properties: Spray-drying for the preservation of antioxidant activity and ultrasound-assisted extraction for enhanced phenolic compound extraction

The spray-drying process yielded functional bergamot juice powder with high antioxidant activity, phenolic content, and vitamin C content. Optimal drying conditions were determined as 10% maltodextrin concentration, 146.02°C inlet temperature, and 39.99% pump rate, preserving powder's bioactive properties. Under these drying conditions, bergamot juice powder exhibited an antioxidant activity of 62.2% DPPH scavenging activity, a total phenolic content of 3862.1 ppm, and a vitamin C content of 1385.9 ppm. The bergamot juice powder, with a water activity of 0.2, bulk density of 0.4 g/mL, tapped density of 0.5 g/mL, porosity of 89.6%, hygroscopicity of 8.6%, and cohesiveness of 37.2%, is highly suitable for further processing. High-pressure liquid chromatography analysis revealed the presence of major phenolic compounds in both fresh bergamot juice and spray-dried powder, although their concentrations were lower in the powder form. The major phenolics identified in the fruit juice were naringin (197.5 ppm), eriocitrin (105.9 ppm), neoeriocitrin (53.4 ppm), neohesperidin (68.8 ppm), and naringenin (119.8 ppm). However, in the powder form, the bitterness-associated compounds, naringin and neohesperidin, exhibited a significant reduction of 85.0% and 90.3%, respectively. Compared to dimethyl sulfoxide (48.4%), ethanol (37.9%), and distilled water (17.3%), ultrasound-assisted extraction with acetone solvent demonstrated the highest efficiency (61.7%) in obtaining phenolic compounds from bergamot juice powder. In conclusion, spray-drying is an effective method for obtaining functional bergamot juice powder, and ultrasound-assisted extraction can further enhance phenolic compound extraction efficiency. These findings have potential applications in the food, cosmetics, and pharmaceutical industries, with opportunities for further research in functional foods or nutraceuticals. PRACTICAL APPLICATION: Spray-drying yields functional bergamot juice powder with high bioactive properties. Optimal drying conditions can be applied in industrial settings. Ultrasound-assisted extraction enhances phenolic compound extraction efficiency. Potential applications in food, cosmetics, and pharmaceutical industries.

An Insight into Diverse Activities and Targets of Flavonoids

BACKGROUND

Flavonoids belong to the chemical class of polyphenols and are in the category of secondary metabolites imparting a wide protective effect against acute and chronic diseases.

OBJECTIVE

The study aims to investigate and summarize the information of various flavonoids extracted, isolated from various sources, and possess different pharmacological properties by acting on multiple targets.

METHODS

This comprehensive review summarizes the research information related to flavonoids and their pharmacological action targets from various sources like PubMed, Google Scholar and Google websites.

RESULTS

Extracted information in the paper discusses various therapeutic effects of flavonoids isolated from medicinal plant sources, which have the property to inhibit several enzymes, which finally results in health benefits like anti-cancer, anti-bacterial, antioxidant, anti-allergic, and anti-viral effects. This study also showed the different solvents and methods involved in the extraction and characterization of the isolated phytochemical constituents.

CONCLUSION

The findings showed the contribution of several flavonoids in the management and inhibition of various acute and chronic sicknesses by acting on different sites in the body. This study may lead to gaining interest for more research on the bioactives of different medicinal plants for the discovery of new lead compounds or further improvement of the efficacy of the existing compound.

MYB transcription factors-master regulators of phenylpropanoid biosynthesis and diverse developmental and stress responses

Phenylpropanoids, the largest class of natural products including flavonoids, anthocyanins, monolignols and tannins perform multiple functions ranging from photosynthesis, nutrient uptake, regulating growth, cell division, maintenance of redox homeostasis and biotic and abiotic stress responses. Being sedentary life forms, plants possess several regulatory modules that increase their performance in varying environments by facilitating activation of several signaling cascades upon perception of developmental and stress signals. Of the various regulatory modules, those involving MYB transcription factors are one of the extensive groups involved in regulating the phenylpropanoid metabolic enzymes in addition to other genes. R2R3 MYB transcription factors are a class of plant-specific transcription factors that regulate the expression of structural genes involved in anthocyanin, flavonoid and monolignol biosynthesis which are indispensable to several developmental pathways and stress responses. The aim of this review is to present the regulation of the phenylpropanoid pathway by MYB transcription factors via Phospholipase D/phosphatidic acid signaling, downstream activation of the structural genes, leading to developmental and/or stress responses. Specific MYB transcription factors inducing or repressing specific structural genes of anthocyanin, flavonoid and lignin biosynthetic pathways are discussed. Further the roles of MYB in activating biotic and abiotic stress responses are delineated. While several articles have reported the role of MYB's in stress responses, they are restricted to two or three specific MYB factors. This review is a consolidation of the diverse roles of different MYB transcription factors involved both in induction and repression of anthocyanin, flavonoid, and lignin biosynthesis.

The Neuroprotective Potentiality of Flavonoids on Alzheimer's Disease

Alzheimer's disease (AD), due to its spread, has become a global health priority, and is characterized by senile dementia and progressive disability. The main cause of AD and other neurodegenerations (Huntington, Parkinson, Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis) are aggregated protein accumulation and oxidative damage. Recent research on secondary metabolites of plants such as polyphenols demonstrated that they may slow the progression of AD. The flavonoids' mechanism of action in AD involved the inhibition of acetylcholinesterase, butyrylcholinesterase, Tau protein aggregation, β-secretase, oxidative stress, inflammation, and apoptosis through modulation of signaling pathways which are implicated in cognitive and neuroprotective functions, such as ERK, PI3-kinase/Akt, NFKB, MAPKs, and endogenous antioxidant enzymatic systems. This review focuses on flavonoids and their role in AD, in terms of therapeutic potentiality for human health, antioxidant potential, and specific AD molecular targets.

Natural product-based pharmacological studies for neurological disorders

Central nervous system (CNS) disorders and diseases are expected to rise sharply in the coming years, partly because of the world's aging population. Medicines for the treatment of the CNS have not been successfully made. Inadequate knowledge about the brain, pharmacokinetic and dynamic errors in preclinical studies, challenges with clinical trial design, complexity and variety of human brain illnesses, and variations in species are some potential scenarios. Neurodegenerative diseases (NDDs) are multifaceted and lack identifiable etiological components, and the drugs developed to treat them did not meet the requirements of those who anticipated treatments. Therefore, there is a great demand for safe and effective natural therapeutic adjuvants. For the treatment of NDDs and other memory-related problems, many herbal and natural items have been used in the Ayurvedic medical system. Anxiety, depression, Parkinson's, and Alzheimer's diseases (AD), as well as a plethora of other neuropsychiatric disorders, may benefit from the use of plant and food-derived chemicals that have antidepressant or antiepileptic properties. We have summarized the present level of knowledge about natural products based on topological evidence, bioinformatics analysis, and translational research in this review. We have also highlighted some clinical research or investigation that will help us select natural products for the treatment of neurological conditions. In the present review, we have explored the potential efficacy of phytoconstituents against neurological diseases. Various evidence-based studies and extensive recent investigations have been included, which will help pharmacologists reduce the progression of neuronal disease.

Molecular dynamics simulations, molecular docking, and kinetics study of kaempferol interaction on Jack bean urease: Comparison of extended solvation model

Since the urease enzyme creates gastric cancer, peptic ulcer, hepatic coma, and urinary stones in millions of people worldwide, it is essential to find strong inhibitors to help patients. Natural products are well known for their beneficial effects on health and efforts are being made to isolate the ingredients, the so-called flavonoids. Flavonoids are now considered as an indispensable component in a variety of nutraceutical, pharmaceutical, and cosmetic applications. Kaempferol (KPF) is an antioxidant found in many fruits and vegetables. Many reports have explained the significant effects of dietary KPF in reducing the risk of chronic diseases such as cancer, ischemia, stroke, and Parkinson's. The current study aimed at investigating the inhibitory impact of KPF on Jack bean urease (JBU) using molecular dynamics (MD) simulations and molecular mechanics Poisson-Boltzmann surface area (MM-PBSA) calculations to confirm the results obtained from isothermal titration calorimetry (ITC), extended solvation model, and docking software. In addition, UV-VIS spectrophotometry was used to study the kinetics of urease inhibition. Calorimetric and spectrophotometric determinations of the kinetic parameters of this inhibition indicate the occurrence of a reversible and noncompetitive mode. Also, the docking and MD results indicated that the urease had well adapted to the kaempferol in the binding pocket, thereby forming a stable complex. Kaempferol displayed low binding energy during MMPBSA calculations. The inhibitory potential of kaempferol was confirmed by experimental and simulation data, but in vivo investigations are also recommended to validate our results.

Identifying Candidate Flavonoids for Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease by Network-Based Strategy

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is the most common type of chronic liver disease and lacks guaranteed pharmacological therapeutic options. In this study, we applied a network-based framework for comprehensively identifying candidate flavonoids for the prevention and/or treatment of NAFLD. Flavonoid-target interaction information was obtained from combining experimentally validated data and results obtained using a recently developed machine-learning model, AI-DTI. Flavonoids were then prioritized by calculating the network proximity between flavonoid targets and NAFLD-associated proteins. The preventive effects of the candidate flavonoids were evaluated using FFA-induced hepatic steatosis in HepG2 and AML12 cells. We reconstructed the flavonoid-target network and found that the number of re-covered compound-target interactions was significantly higher than the chance level. Proximity scores have successfully rediscovered flavonoids and their potential mechanisms that are reported to have therapeutic effects on NAFLD. Finally, we revealed that discovered candidates, particularly glycitin, significantly attenuated lipid accumulation and moderately inhibited intracellular reactive oxygen species production. We further confirmed the affinity of glycitin with the predicted target using molecular docking and found that glycitin targets are closely related to several proteins involved in lipid metabolism, inflammatory responses, and oxidative stress. The predicted network-level effects were validated at the levels of mRNA. In summary, our study offers and validates network-based methods for the identification of candidate flavonoids for NAFLD.

A comprehensive and current review on the role of flavonoids in lung cancer-Experimental and theoretical approaches

BACKGROUND

It is well-known that flavonoids, which can be easily obtained from many fruits and vegetables are widely preferred in the treatment of some important diseases. Some researchers noted that these chemical compounds exhibit high inhibition effect against various cancer types. Many experimental studies proving this ability of the flavonoids with high antioxidant activity are available in the literature.

PUROPOSE

The main aim of this review is to summarize comprehensively anticancer properties of flavonoids against the lung cancer in the light of experimental studies and well-known theory and electronic structure principles. In this review article, more detailed and current information about the using of flavonoids in the treatment of lung cancer is presented considering theoretical and experimental approaches.

STUDY DESIGN

In addition to experimental studies including the anticancer effects of flavonoids, we emphasized the requirement of the well-known electronic structure principle in the development of anticancer drugs. For this aim, Conceptual Density Functional Theory should be considered as a powerful tool. Searching the databases including ScienceDirect, PubMed and Web of Science, the suitable reference papers for this project were selected.

METHODS

Theoretical tools like DFT and Molecular Docking provides important clues about anticancer behavior and drug properties of molecular systems. Conceptual Density Functional Theory and CDFT based electronic structure principles and rules like Hard and Soft Acid-Base Principle (HSAB), Maximum Hardness Principle, Minimum Polarizability, Minimum Electrophilicity Principles and Maximum Composite Hardness Rule introduced by one of the authors of this review are so useful to predict the mechanisms and powers of chemical systems. Especially, it cannot be ignored the success of HSAB Principle in the explanations and highlighting of biochemical interactions.

RESULTS

Both theoretical analysis and experimental studies confirmed that flavonoids have higher inhibition effect against lung cancer. In addition to many superior properties like anticancer activity, antimicrobial activity, antioxidant activity, antidiabetic effect of flavonoids, their toxicities are also explained with the help of published popular papers. Action modes of the mentioned compounds are given in detail.

CONCLUSION

The review includes detailed information about the mentioned electronic structure principles and rules and their applications in the cancer research. In addition, the epidemiology and types of lung cancer anticancer activity of flavonoids in lung cancer are explained in details.

A chemical probe inhibitor targeting STAT1 restricts cancer stem cell traits and angiogenesis in colorectal cancer

Background

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a worldwide cancer with rising annual incidence. New medications for patients with CRC are still needed. Recently, fluorescent chemical probes have been developed for cancer imaging and therapy. Signal transducer and activator of transcription 1 (STAT1) has complex functions in tumorigenesis and its role in CRC still needs further investigation.

Methods

RNA sequencing datasets in the NCBI GEO repository were analyzed to investigate the expression of STAT1 in patients with CRC. Xenograft mouse models, tail vein injection mouse models, and azoxymethane/dextran sodium sulfate (AOM/DSS) mouse models were generated to study the roles of STAT1 in CRC. A ligand-based high-throughput virtual screening approach combined with SWEETLEAD chemical database analysis was used to discover new STAT1 inhibitors. A newly designed and synthesized fluorescently labeled 4’,5,7-trihydroxyisoflavone (THIF) probe (BODIPY-THIF) elucidated the mechanistic actions of STAT1 and THIF in vitro and in vivo. Colonosphere formation assay and chick chorioallantoic membrane assay were used to evaluate stemness and angiogenesis, respectively.

Results

Upregulation of STAT1 was observed in patients with CRC and in mouse models of AOM/DSS-induced CRC and metastatic CRC. Knockout of STAT1 in CRC cells reduced tumor growth in vivo. We then combined a high-throughput virtual screening approach and analysis of the SWEETLEAD chemical database and found that THIF, a flavonoid abundant in soybeans, was a novel STAT1 inhibitor. THIF inhibited STAT1 phosphorylation and might bind to the STAT1 SH2 domain, leading to blockade of STAT1-STAT1 dimerization. The results of in vitro and in vivo binding studies of THIF and STAT1 were validated. The pharmacological treatment with BODIPY-THIF or ablation of STAT1 via a CRISPR/Cas9-based strategy abolished stemness and angiogenesis in CRC. Oral administration of BODIPY-THIF attenuated colitis symptoms and tumor growth in the mouse model of AOM/DSS-induced CRC.

Conclusions

This study demonstrates that STAT1 plays an oncogenic role in CRC. BODIPY-THIF is a new chemical probe inhibitor of STAT1 that reduces stemness and angiogenesis in CRC. BODIPY-THIF can be a potential tool for CRC therapy as well as cancer cell imaging.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12929-022-00803-4.

Mechanisms of magnoliae cortex on treating sarcopenia explored by GEO gene sequencing data combined with network pharmacology and molecular docking

Background

Administration of Magnoliae Cortex (MC) could induce remission of cisplatin-induced sarcopenia in mice, however, whether it is effective on sarcopenia patients and the underlying mechanisms remain unclear.

Methods

Sarcopenia related differentially expressed genes were analysed based on three Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) transcriptome profiling datasets, which was merged and de duplicated with disease databases to obtain sarcopenia related pathogenic genes. Gene ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) analysis were than performed to analyse the role of proteins encoded by sarcopenia related pathogenic genes and the signal regulatory pathways involved in. The main active components and target proteins of MC were obtained by searching traditional Chinese medicine network databases (TCMSP and BATMAN-TCM). MC and sarcopenia related pathogenic genes shared target proteins were identified by matching the two. A protein–protein interaction network was constructed subsequently, and the core proteins were filtered according to the topological structure. GO and KEGG analysis were performed again to analyse the key target proteins and pathways of MC in the treatment of sarcopenia, and build the herbs-components-targets network, as well as core targets-signal pathways network. Molecular docking technology was used to verify the main compounds-targets.

Results

Sarcopenia related gene products primarily involve in aging and inflammation related signal pathways. Seven main active components (Anonaine, Eucalyptol, Neohesperidin, Obovatol, Honokiol, Magnolol, and beta-Eudesmol) and 26 target proteins of MC-sarcopenia, of which 4 were core proteins (AKT1, EGFR, INS, and PIK3CA), were identified. The therapeutic effect of MC on sarcopenia may associate with PI3K-Akt signaling pathway, EGFR tyrosine kinase inhibitor resistance, longevity regulating pathway, and other cellular and innate immune signaling pathways.

Conclusion

MC contains potential anti-sarcopenia active compounds. These compounds play a role by regulating the proteins implicated in regulating aging and inflammation related signaling pathways, which are crucial in pathogenesis of sarcopenia. Our study provides new insights into the development of a natural therapy for the prevention and treatment of sarcopenia.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12863-022-01029-x.

Learning, Neurogenesis and Effects of Flavonoids on Learning

Learning and memory are two of our mind's most magical abilities. Different brain regions have roles to process and store different types of memories. The hippocampus is the part of the brain responsible for receiving information and storing it in the neocortex. One of the most impressive characteristics of the hippocampus is its capacity for neurogenesis which is a process, new neurons are produced and then transformed into mature neurons and integrated into neural circuits. The neurogenesis process in the hippocampus, an example of neuroplasticity in the adult brain, is believed to aid hippocampal-dependent learning and memory. New neurons are constantly produced in the hippocampus and integrated into the pre-existing neuronal network, this allows old memories already stored in the neocortex to be removed from the hippocampus and replaced with new ones. Factors affecting neurogenesis in the hippocampus may also affect hippocampal-dependent learning and memory. The flavonoids can exert particularly powerful actions in mammalian cognition and improve hippocampaldependent learning and memory by positively affecting hippocampal neurogenesis.

Naringenin as a Possible Candidate Against SARS-CoV-2 Infection and in the Pathogenesis of COVID-19

Naringenin, widely distributed in fruits and vegetables, is endowed with antiviral and other health beneficial activities, such as immune-stimulating and anti-inflammatory actions that could play a role in contributing, to some extent, to either preventing or alleviating coronavirus infection. Several computational studies have identified naringenin as one of the prominent flavonoids that can possibly inhibit internalization of the virus, virus-host interactions that trigger the cytokine storm, and replication of the virus. This review highlights the antiviral potential of naringenin in COVID-19 associated risk factors and its predicted therapeutic targets against SARS-CoV-2 infection.

Navigating Calcium and Reactive Oxygen Species by Natural Flavones for the Treatment of Heart Failure

Heart failure (HF), the leading cause of death among men and women world-wide, causes great health and economic burdens. HF can be triggered by many factors, such as coronary artery disease, heart attack, cardiomyopathy, hypertension, obesity, etc., all of which have close relations with calcium signal and the level of reactive oxygen species (ROS). Calcium is an essential second messenger in signaling pathways, playing a pivotal role in regulating the life and death of cardiomyocytes via the calcium-apoptosis link mediated by the cellular level of calcium. Meanwhile, calcium can also control the rate of energy production in mitochondria that are the major resources of ROS whose overproduction can lead to cell death. More importantly, there are bidirectional interactions between calcium and ROS, and such interactions may have therapeutic implications in treating HF through finely tuning the balance between these two by certain drugs. Many naturally derived products, e.g., flavones and isoflavones, have been shown to possess activities in regulating calcium and ROS simultaneously, thereby leading to a balanced microenvironment in heart tissues to exert therapeutic efficacies in HF. In this mini review, we aimed to provide an updated knowledge of the interplay between calcium and ROS in the development of HF. In addition, we summarized the recent studies (in vitro, in vivo and in clinical trials) using natural isolated flavones and isoflavones in treating HF. Critical challenges are also discussed. The information collected may help to evoke multidisciplinary efforts in developing novel agents for the potential prevention and treatment of HF.

Phytochemicals from Plant Foods as Potential Source of Antiviral Agents: An Overview

To date, the leading causes of mortality and morbidity worldwide include viral infections, such as Ebola, influenza virus, acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS), severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) and recently COVID-19 disease, caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus. Currently, we can count on a narrow range of antiviral drugs, especially older generation ones like ribavirin and interferon which are effective against viruses in vitro but can often be ineffective in patients. In addition to these, we have antiviral agents for the treatment of herpes virus, influenza virus, HIV and hepatitis virus. Recently, drugs used in the past especially against ebolavirus, such as remdesivir and favipiravir, have been considered for the treatment of COVID-19 disease. However, even if these drugs represent important tools against viral diseases, they are certainly not sufficient to defend us from the multitude of viruses present in the environment. This represents a huge problem, especially considering the unprecedented global threat due to the advancement of COVID-19, which represents a potential risk to the health and life of millions of people. The demand, therefore, for new and effective antiviral drugs is very high. This review focuses on three fundamental points: (1) presents the main threats to human health, reviewing the most widespread viral diseases in the world, thus describing the scenario caused by the disease in question each time and evaluating the specific therapeutic remedies currently available. (2) It comprehensively describes main phytochemical classes, in particular from plant foods, with proven antiviral activities, the viruses potentially treated with the described phytochemicals. (3) Consideration of the various applications of drug delivery systems in order to improve the bioavailability of these compounds or extracts. A PRISMA flow diagram was used for the inclusion of the works. Taking into consideration the recent dramatic events caused by COVID-19 pandemic, the cry of alarm that denounces critical need for new antiviral drugs is extremely strong. For these reasons, a continuous systematic exploration of plant foods and their phytochemicals is necessary for the development of new antiviral agents capable of saving lives and improving their well-being.

Bioflavonoid Robinin from Astragalus falcatus Lam. Mildly Improves the Effect of Metothrexate in Rats with Adjuvant Arthritis

Anti-inflammatory potential of orally administrated bioflavonoid-robinin, active sub-stance of original drug Flaroninum™ (FL), was investigated in the combination with methotrexate (MTX) and in monotherapy in rats suffering from adjuvant-induced arthritis (AA). Robinin (kaempferol-3-O-robinoside-7-O-rhamnoside) was isolated from the aerial parts of Astragalus falcatus Lam. The monotherapy with robinin was not efficient in alleviating symptoms of AA. The combination of MTX with robinin was similarly active as MTX alone in reducing the hind paw volume and change of body weight during the whole experiment. The combination, however, reduced plasma levels of Interleukin-17Aand activity of gamma-glutamyl transferase in joint more efficiently then MTX alone. Our results demonstrate that the novel combination of robinin and MTX mildly improved the reduction of inflammation in experimental arthritis.

Immunomodulatory effects of flavonoids: An experimental study on natural-killer-cell-mediated cytotoxicity against lung cancer and cytotoxic granule secretion profile

Background:

A new approach involving immune-cell-mediated cancer therapy has been adopted extensively for the sake of lung cancer treatments by utilizing natural killer (NK) cells. NK cell activity can be enhanced with certain agents, and among them are flavonoids. Thus, this study was conducted to investigate the immunomodulatory roles of apigenin, luteolin and quercetin on NK cell activity against lung cancer cells and on the secretions of perforin and granulysin profile.

Methods:

The NK-92 cells were grown in complete α-Minimum Essential Medium (MEM). NCI-H460 lung cancer cells were cultured in Roswell Park Memorial Institute 1640 media. NK cell activity against lung cancer cells were done using MTT(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide assay. The secretions of perforin and granulysin profiles were then analysed using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay.

Results:

Apigenin, luteolin and quercetin significantly increased the NK-cell-mediated cytotoxic activity against lung cancer cells at concentrations 12.5 µg/ml and 25µg/ml ( P < 0.001). The secretion levels of perforin and granulysin from NK cells were also significantly enhanced with apigenin and luteolin treatment but not with quercetin.

Conclusions:

All three flavonoid compounds possessed some significant immunomodulatory actions on NK cell cytotoxic activity and granule secretion profiles towards lung cancer therapy.

Anxiolytic properties of Cymbopogon citratus (DC.) stapf extract, essential oil and its constituents in zebrafish (Danio rerio)

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Cymbopogon citratus (DC.) Stapf (Poaceae) leaves is often consumed as infusion in folk medicine due to its therapeutic properties. This plant is also rich in essential oil, which has several beneficial effects to the human health. It is known that medications commonly used to treat anxiety disorders cause undesirable side effects. Thus, it is important to evaluate the anxiolytic effects of natural products from plants, such as C. citratus, as an alternative therapy to treat these disorders.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to investigate the anxiolytic properties of C. citratus essential oil (EO), hydroalcoholic extract (E1), citral (CIT), geraniol (GER) and the mixture of these terpenoids, as well as its possible mechanism of action by using zebrafish as an anxiety model.

METHODS

Adult zebrafish were treated (by immersion) with C. citratus EO, E1, CIT and/or GER. The anxiolytic effects were analyzed by using the light-dark test. The mechanism involved in the anxiolytic effects was further investigated by the coadministration of flumazenil (FMZ), an antagonist of GABA_A receptors. The total polyphenols (phenolic and flavonoid compounds) content of E1 was determined by using spectrophotometric assays.

RESULTS

All analyzed samples showed a remarkable anxiolytic effect on zebrafish in the highest concentrations, as the animals showed a preference for the light side of the tank. Furthermore, the observed effect of EO, E1, CIT and GER was reversed by pre-treatment with FMZ, suggesting that GABAergic receptors were involved in the anxiolytic effect displayed by these samples. The association between CIT and GER in the lowest studied concentrations showed an interesting synergistic behavior on anxiolytic effect observed in light-dark test. Besides, it was demonstrated that E1 was constituted by phenolic and flavonoid compounds, which could be involved in the observed effect.

CONCLUSION

This work has proved that the low-cost zebrafish can be an adequate alternative as an animal model to evaluate the anxiolytic effect of C. citratus and its related compounds. Moreover, the involvement of GABA_A receptors could be responsible for the effect showed by the samples. These obtained results can potentially validate the ethnopharmacological use of C. citratus as a medicinal plant for the treatment of anxiety disorders in folk medicine.

Specialized phenolic compounds in seeds: structures, functions, and regulations

Plants produce a huge diversity of specialized metabolites (SM) throughout their life cycle that play important physiological and ecological functions. SM can protect plants and seeds against diseases, predators, and abiotic stresses, or support their interactions with beneficial or symbiotic organisms. They also have strong impacts on human nutrition and health. Despite this importance, the biosynthesis and biological functions of most of the SM remain elusive and their diversity and/or quantity have been reduced in most crops during domestication. Seeds present a large number of SM that are important for their physiological, agronomic, nutritional or industrial qualities and hence, provide interesting models for both studying biosynthesis and producing large amounts of specialized metabolites. For instance, phenolics are abundant and widely distributed in seeds. More specifically, flavonoid pathway has been instrumental for understanding environmental or developmental regulations of specialized metabolic pathways, at the molecular and cellular levels. Here, we summarize current knowledge on seed phenolics as model, and discuss how recent progresses in omics approaches could help to further characterize their diversity, regulations, and the underlying molecular mechanisms involved.

Exploring the mechanism of TCM formulae in the treatment of different types of coronary heart disease by network pharmacology and machining learning

Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) has long been used in the clinical treatment of coronary heart disease (CHD). TCM is characterized by syndrome-based medication, which is, using different TCM formulae for different syndromes. However, the underlying mode of action remains unclear. In this work, we utilized network pharmacology and machine learning to explore the mechanism of eight classic TCM formulae in the treatment of different types of CHD. First, by integrating multiple databases, a total of 669 potential bioactive compounds and 581 targets of the eight formulae were screened. Then, the effectiveness of these formulae on CHD was evaluated using two network-based indicators. The results showed that each formula's targets were significantly correlated with CHD associated genes and overlapped with the targets of 9 classes of drugs for cardio vascular diseases (CVD) to some degree. Next, from 5 different levels, i.e., herb, symptom, compound, target, and pathway level, we systematically compared the eight formulae using network clustering and hierarchical clustering. We found that all the formulae could be grouped into five clusters and the clustering results were approximately consistent at different levels. All the formulae were involved in 7 pathways closely related to CHD and may exhibit the common effect of relieving angina. Formulae in the same group collectively regulated some unique pathways and suggest further specific indications. For example, the three formulae used for Qi stagnation and blood stasis, Qi deficiency and blood stasis, and Qi-Yin deficiency syndromes acted on two special pathways (TNF signaling pathway, NF-kappa B signaling pathway) and may exert anti-inflammatory and immune-enhancing effects; the two formulae for Yin deficiency of heart and kidney, and Yang deficiency of heart and kidney syndromes regulated two special pathways (PPAR signaling pathway, thyroid hormone signaling pathway) in endocrine system and could improve renal function. Subsequently, we designed a rank algorithm, which integrated network topology with biological function, to identify important targets of these formulae. The results were consistent with the multi-level clustering results. At last, our literature mining validated about 20 % putative targets, as well as clustering results and effects of the formulae by experimental evidences. This study explained the medication patterns and scientific significance of TCM formulae on different types of CHD from perspective of systems biology. It may facilitate the understanding of different types of CHD described by traditional Chinese medicine from the perspectives of modern biology.

(-)-Epicatechin metabolites promote vascular health through epigenetic reprogramming of endothelial-immune cell signaling and reversing systemic low-grade inflammation

Ingestion of (-)-epicatechin flavanols reverses endothelial dysfunction by increasing flow mediated dilation and by reducing vascular inflammation and oxidative stress, monocyte-endothelial cell adhesion and transendothelial monocyte migration in vitro and in vivo. This involves multiple changes in gene expression and epigenetic DNA methylation by poorly understood mechanisms. By in silico docking and molecular modeling we demonstrate favorable binding of different glucuronidated, sulfated or methylated (-)-epicatechin metabolites to different DNA methyltransferases (DNMT1/DNMT3A). In favor of this model, genome-wide DNA methylation profiling of endothelial cells treated with TNF and different (-)-epicatechin metabolites revealed specific DNA methylation changes in gene networks controlling cell adhesion-extravasation endothelial hyperpermeability as well as gamma-aminobutyric acid, renin-angiotensin and nitric oxide hypertension pathways. Remarkably, blood epigenetic profiles of an 8 weeks intervention with monomeric and oligomeric flavanols (MOF) including (-)-epicatechin in male smokers revealed individual epigenetic gene changes targeting similar pathways as the in vitro exposure experiments in endothelial cells. Furthermore, epigenetic changes following MOF diet intervention oppose atherosclerosis associated epigenetic changes. In line with biological data, the individual epigenetic response to a MOF diet is associated with different vascular health parameters (glutathione peroxidase 1 and endothelin-1 expression, acetylcholine-mediated microvascular response), in part involving systemic shifts in blood immune cell types which reduce the neutrophil-lymphocyte ratio (NLR). Altogether, our study suggests that different (-)-epicatechin metabolites promote vascular health in part via epigenetic reprogramming of endothelial-immune cell signaling and reversing systemic low-grade inflammation.

Progress in Research on the Role of Flavonoids in Lung Cancer

Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer deaths worldwide. Therefore, for the prevention, diagnosis, prognosis and treatment of lung cancer, efficient preventive strategies and new therapeutic strategies are needed to face these challenges. Natural bioactive compounds and particular flavonoids compounds have been proven to have an important role in lung cancer prevention and of particular interest is the dose used for these studies, to underline the molecular effects and mechanisms at a physiological concentration. The purpose of this review was to summarize the current state of knowledge regarding relevant molecular mechanisms involved in the pharmacological effects, with a special focus on the anti-cancer role, by regulating the coding and non-coding genes. Furthermore, this review focused on the most commonly altered and most clinically relevant oncogenes and tumor suppressor genes and microRNAs in lung cancer. Particular attention was given to the biological effect in tandem with conventional therapy, emphasizing the role in the regulation of drug resistance related mechanisms.

Bergamot (Citrus bergamia, Risso): The Effects of Cultivar and Harvest Date on Functional Properties of Juice and Cloudy Juice

Reggio Calabria province (South Italy) is known for being almost the only area of cultivation of the bergamot fruit, grown principally for its essential oil, but today much studied for the health benefits of its juice. The biometrics and physico-chemical properties of the three (Citrus bergamia Risso) existing genotypes namely Castagnaro, Fantastico and Femminello were studied during fruit ripening from October to March. Castagnaro cultivar had the biggest and heaviest fruit during this harvest period. °Brix (7.9-10.0), pH (2.2-2.8) and formol number (1.47-2.37 mL NaOH 0.1 N/100 mL) were shown to be influenced by both the genotype and harvest date. Titratable acidity (34.98-59.50 g/L) and vitamin C (ascorbic acid) (341-867 g/L) decreased during fruit ripening. The evolution of flavonoids such as neoeriocitrin, naringin, neohesperidin, brutieridin and melitidin was studied both in bergamot juice and in the bergamot cloudy juice which is the aqueous extract of bergamot during fruit processing. Bergamot cloudy juice contained a higher quantity of flavonoids compared to the juice. This study gives important information regarding the cultivar and the harvest date for producers who want to obtain the highest juice quantity or the highest juice quality from the bergamot fruit.

A Selective Role of Dietary Anthocyanins and Flavan-3-ols in Reducing the Risk of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus: A Review of Recent Evidence

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is the most common form of DM and its prevalence is increasing worldwide. Because it is a progressive disease, prevention, early detection and disease course modification are possible. Diet plays a critical role in reducing T2DM risk. Therapeutic dietary approaches routinely recommend diets high in plant foods (i.e., vegetables, fruits, whole-grains). In addition to essential micronutrients and fiber, plant-based diets contain a wide-variety of polyphenols, specifically flavonoid compounds. Evidence suggests that flavonoids may confer specific benefits for T2DM risk reduction through pathways influencing glucose absorption and insulin sensitivity and/or secretion. The present review assesses the relationship between dietary flavonoids and diabetes risk reduction reviewing current epidemiology and clinical research. Collectively, the research indicates that certain flavonoids, explicitly anthocyanins and flavan-3-ols and foods rich in these compounds, may have an important role in dietary algorithms aimed to address diabetes risk factors and the development of T2DM.

Leukemia therapy by flavonoids: Future and involved mechanisms

Flavonoids are a varied family of phytonutrients (plant chemicals) usually are detected in fruits and vegetables. In this big family, there exist more than 10,000 members that is separated into six chief subtypes: isoflavonols, flavonoenes, flavones, flavonols, anthocyanins, and chalcones. The natural compounds, such as fruits, have visible positive effects in regulating of survival involved signaling pathways that performance as the regulator of cell survival, growth, and proliferation. Researchers have established that commonly consumption up flavonoids decreases incidence and development risk of certain cancers, especially leukemia. Flavonoids have been able to induce apoptosis and stimulate cell cycle arrest in cancer cells via different pathways. Similarly, they have antiangiogenesis and antimetastasis capability, which were shown in wide ranges of cancer cells, particularly, leukemia. It seems that flavonoid because of their widespread approval, evident safety and low rate of side effects, have hopeful anticarcinogenic potential for leukemia therapy. Based on the last decade reports, the most important acting mechanisms of these natural compounds in leukemia cells are stimulating of apoptosis pathways by upregulation of caspase 3, 8, 9 and poly ADP-ribose polymerase (PARP) and proapoptotic proteins, particularly Bax activation. As well, they can induce cell cycle arrest in target cells not only via increasing of activated levels of p21 and p53 but also by inhibition of cyclins and cyclin-dependent kinases. Furthermore, attenuation of neclear factor-κB and signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 activation, suppression of signaling pathway and downregulation of intracellular antiapoptotic proteins are other significant antileukemic function mechanism of flavonoids. Overall, it appears that flavonoids are promising and effective compounds in the field of leukemia therapy. In this review, we tried to accumulate and revise most promising flavonoids and finally declared their major working mechanisms in leukemia cells.

Targeting Cancer with Phytochemicals via Their Fine Tuning of the Cell Survival Signaling Pathways

The role of phytochemicals as potential prodrugs or therapeutic substances against tumors has come in the spotlight in the very recent years, thanks to the huge mass of encouraging and promising results of the in vitro activity of many phenolic compounds from plant raw extracts against many cancer cell lines. Little but important evidence can be retrieved from the clinical and nutritional scientific literature, where flavonoids are investigated as major pro-apoptotic and anti-metastatic compounds. However, the actual role of these compounds in cancer is still far to be fully elucidated. Many of these phytochemicals act in a pleiotropic and poorly specific manner, but, more importantly, they are able to tune the reactive oxygen species (ROS) signaling to activate a survival or a pro-autophagic and pro-apoptosis mechanism, depending on the oxidative stress-responsive endowment of the targeted cell. This review will try to focus on this issue.