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Santos Porto D, da Costa Bernardo Port B, Conte J, Fretes Argenta D, Pereira Balleste M, Amadeu Micke G, Machado Campos Â, Silva Caumo K, Caon T. Development of ophthalmic nanoemulsions of β-caryophyllene for the treatment of Acanthamoeba keratitis. Int J Pharm 2024; 659:124252. [PMID: 38782149 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpharm.2024.124252] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2024] [Revised: 05/19/2024] [Accepted: 05/20/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024]
Abstract
Although rare, amoebic keratitis (AK) is a disease caused by Acanthamoeba spp. that can lead to blindness. The drugs currently available for its treatment are very toxic, which has motivated the investigation for more effective and safe therapeutic options. In this study, the in vitro activity of ß-caryophyllene (BCP) was exploited taking into account its action against other protozoans as well as its well-known healing and anti-inflammatory properties (aspects relevant for the AK pathogenesis). On the other hand, high volatilization and oxidation phenomena are found for this compound, which led to its incorporation into nanoemulsions (NEs). Two emulsifying agents were tested, resulting in monodisperse systems with reduced droplet size (<265 nm) and high surface charge (positive and negative for NEs prepared with cetrimonium bromide -CTAB and Phosal® 50+, respectively). NEs prepared with CTAB were shown to be more stable after long-term storage at 4 and 25 °C than those prepared with Phosal®. Pure BCP, at the highest concentration (500 µM), resulted in a level of inhibition of Acanthamoeba trophozoites equivalent to that of reference drug (chlorhexidine). This activity was even greater after oil nanoencapsulation. The reduced droplet size could improve the interaction of the oil with the microorganism, justifying this finding. Changes in surface charge did not impact the activity. Positively charged NEs improved the interaction and retention of BCP in the cornea and thus should be prioritized for further studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Douglas Santos Porto
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Federal University of Santa Catarina, Florianópolis, SC 88040-900, Brazil
| | | | - Júlia Conte
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Federal University of Santa Catarina, Florianópolis, SC 88040-900, Brazil
| | - Debora Fretes Argenta
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Federal University of Santa Catarina, Florianópolis, SC 88040-900, Brazil
| | - Maira Pereira Balleste
- Department of Chemistry, Federal University of Santa Catarina, Florianópolis, SC 88040-900, Brazil
| | - Gustavo Amadeu Micke
- Department of Chemistry, Federal University of Santa Catarina, Florianópolis, SC 88040-900, Brazil
| | - Ângela Machado Campos
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Federal University of Santa Catarina, Florianópolis, SC 88040-900, Brazil
| | - Karin Silva Caumo
- Department of Clinical Analyses, Federal University of Santa Catarina, Florianópolis, SC 88040-900, Brazil
| | - Thiago Caon
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Federal University of Santa Catarina, Florianópolis, SC 88040-900, Brazil.
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Chen Z, Ding W, Yang X, Lu T, Liu Y. Isoliquiritigenin, a potential therapeutic agent for treatment of inflammation-associated diseases. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2024; 318:117059. [PMID: 37604329 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2023.117059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2023] [Revised: 08/12/2023] [Accepted: 08/16/2023] [Indexed: 08/23/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Licorice is a medicinal herb with a 2000-year history of applications in traditional Chinese medicine. Isoliquiritigenin (ISL) is a bioactive chalcone compound isolated from licorice. It has attracted increasing attention in recent years due to its excellent anti-inflammatory activity. AIM OF THE STUDY This study is to provide a comprehensive summary of the anti-inflammatory activity of ISL and the underlying molecular mechanisms, and discuss new insights for its potential clinical applications as an anti-inflammation agent. MATERIALS AND METHODS We examined literatures published in the past twenty years from PubMed, Research Gate, Web of Science, Google Scholar, and SciFinder, with single or combined key words of "isoliquiritigenin", "inflammation", and "anti-inflammatory". RESULTS ISL elicits its anti-inflammatory activity by mediating various cellular processes. It inhibits the upstream of the nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) pathway and activates the nuclear factor erythroid related factor 2 (Nrf2) pathway. In addition, it suppresses the NOD-like receptor protein 3 (NLRP3) pathway and restrains the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathway. CONCLUSIONS Current studies indicate a great therapeutical potential of ISL as a drug candidate for treatment of inflammation-associated diseases. However, the pharmacokinetics, biosafety, and bioavailability of ISL remain to be further investigated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ziyi Chen
- School of Life Sciences, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Wenwen Ding
- School of Life Sciences, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Xiaoxue Yang
- School of Life Sciences, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Tiangong Lu
- School of Life Sciences, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China.
| | - Ying Liu
- School of Life Sciences, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China.
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Wilson G, Yang L, Su X, Ding S, Li L, Yang Y, Wang X, Wang W, Sa Y, Zhang Y, Chen J, Ma X. Exploring the therapeutic potential of natural compounds modulating the endocannabinoid system in various diseases and disorders: review. Pharmacol Rep 2023; 75:1410-1444. [PMID: 37906390 DOI: 10.1007/s43440-023-00544-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2023] [Revised: 10/07/2023] [Accepted: 10/09/2023] [Indexed: 11/02/2023]
Abstract
Cannabinoid receptors, endogenous cannabinoids (endocannabinoids), and the enzymes involved in the biosynthesis and degradation of the endocannabinoids make up the endocannabinoid system (ECS). The components of the ECS are proven to modulate a vast bulk of various physiological and pathological processes due to their abundance throughout the human body. Such discoveries have attracted the researchers' attention and emerged as a potential therapeutical target for the treatment of various diseases. In the present article, we reviewed the discoveries of natural compounds, herbs, herbs formula, and their therapeutic properties in various diseases and disorders by modulating the ECS. We also summarize the molecular mechanisms through which these compounds elicit their properties by interacting with the ECS based on the existing findings. Our study provides the insight into the use of natural compounds that modulate ECS in various diseases and disorders, which in turn may facilitate future studies exploiting natural lead compounds as novel frameworks for designing more effective and safer therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gidion Wilson
- Department of Pharmaceutical Analysis, School of Pharmacy, Key Laboratory of Hui Ethnic Medicine Modernization, Ministry of Education, Ningxia Medical University, 1160 Shenli Street, Yinchuan, 750004, China
| | - Lingling Yang
- Department of Pharmaceutical Analysis, School of Pharmacy, Key Laboratory of Hui Ethnic Medicine Modernization, Ministry of Education, Ningxia Medical University, 1160 Shenli Street, Yinchuan, 750004, China
| | - Xiaojuan Su
- Department of Pharmaceutical Analysis, School of Pharmacy, Key Laboratory of Hui Ethnic Medicine Modernization, Ministry of Education, Ningxia Medical University, 1160 Shenli Street, Yinchuan, 750004, China
| | - Shuqin Ding
- Department of Pharmaceutical Analysis, School of Pharmacy, Key Laboratory of Hui Ethnic Medicine Modernization, Ministry of Education, Ningxia Medical University, 1160 Shenli Street, Yinchuan, 750004, China
| | - Liuyan Li
- Department of Pharmaceutical Analysis, School of Pharmacy, Key Laboratory of Hui Ethnic Medicine Modernization, Ministry of Education, Ningxia Medical University, 1160 Shenli Street, Yinchuan, 750004, China
| | - Youyue Yang
- Department of Pharmaceutical Analysis, School of Pharmacy, Key Laboratory of Hui Ethnic Medicine Modernization, Ministry of Education, Ningxia Medical University, 1160 Shenli Street, Yinchuan, 750004, China
| | - Xiaoying Wang
- Department of Pharmaceutical Analysis, School of Pharmacy, Key Laboratory of Hui Ethnic Medicine Modernization, Ministry of Education, Ningxia Medical University, 1160 Shenli Street, Yinchuan, 750004, China
| | - Weibiao Wang
- Department of Pharmaceutical Analysis, School of Pharmacy, Key Laboratory of Hui Ethnic Medicine Modernization, Ministry of Education, Ningxia Medical University, 1160 Shenli Street, Yinchuan, 750004, China
| | - Yuping Sa
- Department of Pharmaceutical Analysis, School of Pharmacy, Key Laboratory of Hui Ethnic Medicine Modernization, Ministry of Education, Ningxia Medical University, 1160 Shenli Street, Yinchuan, 750004, China
| | - Yue Zhang
- Department of Pharmaceutical Analysis, School of Pharmacy, Key Laboratory of Hui Ethnic Medicine Modernization, Ministry of Education, Ningxia Medical University, 1160 Shenli Street, Yinchuan, 750004, China
| | - Jianyu Chen
- Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, No. 1, Huatuo Road, Minhoushangjie, Fuzhou, 350122, China.
| | - Xueqin Ma
- Department of Pharmaceutical Analysis, School of Pharmacy, Key Laboratory of Hui Ethnic Medicine Modernization, Ministry of Education, Ningxia Medical University, 1160 Shenli Street, Yinchuan, 750004, China.
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Inan S, Ward SJ, Baltazar CT, Peruggia GA, Javed E, Nayak AP. Epicutaneous Sensitization to the Phytocannabinoid β-Caryophyllene Induces Pruritic Inflammation. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:14328. [PMID: 37762646 PMCID: PMC10532273 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241814328] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2023] [Revised: 09/06/2023] [Accepted: 09/11/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
In recent years, there has been increased accessibility to cannabis for recreational and medicinal use. Incidentally, there has been an increase in reports describing allergic reactions to cannabis including exacerbation of underlying asthma. Recently, multiple protein allergens were discovered in cannabis, yet these fail to explain allergic sensitization in many patients, particularly urticaria and angioedema. Cannabis has a rich chemical profile including cannabinoids and terpenes that possess immunomodulatory potential. We examined whether major cannabinoids of cannabis such as cannabidiol (CBD) and the bicyclic sesquiterpene beta-caryophyllene (β-CP) act as contact sensitizers. The repeated topical application of mice skin with β-CP at 10 mg/mL (50 µL) induced an itch response and dermatitis at 2 weeks in mice, which were sustained for the period of study. Histopathological analysis of skin tissues revealed significant edema and desquamation for β-CP at 10 mg/mL. For CBD and β-CP, we observed a dose-dependent increase in epidermal thickening with profound thickening observed for β-CP at 10 mg/mL. Significant trafficking of CD11b cells was observed in various compartments of the skin in response to treatment with β-CP in a concentration-dependent manner. Mast cell trafficking was restricted to β-CP (10 mg/mL). Mouse proteome profiler cytokine/chemokine array revealed upregulation of complement C5/5a (anaphylatoxin), soluble intracellular adhesion molecule-1 (sICAM-1) and IL-1 receptor antagonist (IL-1RA) in animals dosed with β-CP (10 mg/mL). Moreover, we observed a dose-dependent increase in serum IgE in animals dosed with β-CP. Treatment with β-CP (10 mg/mL) significantly reduced filaggrin expression, an indicator of barrier disruption. In contrast, treatment with CBD at all concentrations failed to evoke scratching and dermatitis in mice and did not result in increased serum IgE. Further, skin tissues were devoid of any remarkable features, although at 10 mg/mL CBD we did observe the accumulation of dermal CD11b cells in skin tissue sections. We also observed increased filaggrin staining in mice repeatedly dosed with CBD (10 mg/mL). Collectively, our studies indicate that repeated exposure to high concentrations of β-CP can induce dermatitis-like pathological outcomes in mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saadet Inan
- Department of Neural Sciences, Center for Substance Abuse, Lewis Katz School of Medicine at Temple University, Philadelphia, PA 19140, USA; (S.I.); (S.J.W.); (C.T.B.)
| | - Sara J. Ward
- Department of Neural Sciences, Center for Substance Abuse, Lewis Katz School of Medicine at Temple University, Philadelphia, PA 19140, USA; (S.I.); (S.J.W.); (C.T.B.)
| | - Citlalli T. Baltazar
- Department of Neural Sciences, Center for Substance Abuse, Lewis Katz School of Medicine at Temple University, Philadelphia, PA 19140, USA; (S.I.); (S.J.W.); (C.T.B.)
| | - Gabrielle A. Peruggia
- Department of Medicine, Center for Translational Medicine & Division of Pulmonary, Allergy and Critical Care Medicine, Jane and Leonard Korman Lung Center, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA 19107, USA (E.J.)
| | - Elham Javed
- Department of Medicine, Center for Translational Medicine & Division of Pulmonary, Allergy and Critical Care Medicine, Jane and Leonard Korman Lung Center, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA 19107, USA (E.J.)
| | - Ajay P. Nayak
- Department of Medicine, Center for Translational Medicine & Division of Pulmonary, Allergy and Critical Care Medicine, Jane and Leonard Korman Lung Center, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA 19107, USA (E.J.)
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Alkafaas SS, Abdallah AM, Hussien AM, Bedair H, Abdo M, Ghosh S, Elkafas SS, Apollon W, Saki M, Loutfy SA, Onyeaka H, Hessien M. A study on the effect of natural products against the transmission of B.1.1.529 Omicron. Virol J 2023; 20:191. [PMID: 37626376 PMCID: PMC10464336 DOI: 10.1186/s12985-023-02160-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2023] [Accepted: 08/15/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The recent outbreak of the Coronavirus pandemic resulted in a successful vaccination program launched by the World Health Organization. However, a large population is still unvaccinated, leading to the emergence of mutated strains like alpha, beta, delta, and B.1.1.529 (Omicron). Recent reports from the World Health Organization raised concerns about the Omicron variant, which emerged in South Africa during a surge in COVID-19 cases in November 2021. Vaccines are not proven completely effective or safe against Omicron, leading to clinical trials for combating infection by the mutated virus. The absence of suitable pharmaceuticals has led scientists and clinicians to search for alternative and supplementary therapies, including dietary patterns, to reduce the effect of mutated strains. MAIN BODY This review analyzed Coronavirus aetiology, epidemiology, and natural products for combating Omicron. Although the literature search did not include keywords related to in silico or computational research, in silico investigations were emphasized in this study. Molecular docking was implemented to compare the interaction between natural products and Chloroquine with the ACE2 receptor protein amino acid residues of Omicron. The global Omicron infection proceeding SARS-CoV-2 vaccination was also elucidated. The docking results suggest that DGCG may bind to the ACE2 receptor three times more effectively than standard chloroquine. CONCLUSION The emergence of the Omicron variant has highlighted the need for alternative therapies to reduce the impact of mutated strains. The current review suggests that natural products such as DGCG may be effective in binding to the ACE2 receptor and combating the Omicron variant, however, further research is required to validate the results of this study and explore the potential of natural products to mitigate COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samar Sami Alkafaas
- Molecular Cell Biology Unit, Division of Biochemistry, Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, Tanta University, Tanta, 31527, Egypt.
| | - Abanoub Mosaad Abdallah
- Narcotic Research Department, National Center for Social and Criminological Research (NCSCR), Giza, 11561, Egypt
| | - Aya Misbah Hussien
- Biotechnology Department at Institute of Graduate Studies and Research, Alexandria University, Alexandria, Egypt
| | - Heba Bedair
- Botany Department, Faculty of Science, Tanta University, Tanta, Egypt
| | - Mahmoud Abdo
- Division of Biochemistry, Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, Tanta University, Tanta, 31527, Egypt
| | - Soumya Ghosh
- Department of Genetics, Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences, University of the Free State, Bloemfontein, 9301, South Africa.
| | - Sara Samy Elkafas
- Production Engineering and Mechanical Design Department, Faculty of Engineering, Menofia University, Menofia, Egypt
| | - Wilgince Apollon
- Department of Agricultural and Food Engineering, Faculty of Agronomy, Universidad Autónoma de Nuevo León, Francisco Villa S/N, Ex-Hacienda El Canadá, 66050, General Escobedo, Nuevo León, Mexico
| | - Morteza Saki
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran
| | - Samah A Loutfy
- Virology and Immunology Unit, Cancer Biology Department, National Cancer Institute, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
- Nanotechnology Research Center, British University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Helen Onyeaka
- School of Chemical Engineering, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham, B15 2TT, UK.
| | - Mohamed Hessien
- Molecular Cell Biology Unit, Division of Biochemistry, Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, Tanta University, Tanta, 31527, Egypt
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Mohanta O, Ray A, Jena S, Sahoo A, Panda SS, Das PK, Nayak S, Panda PC. Mesosphaerum suaveolens Essential Oil Attenuates Inflammatory Response and Oxidative Stress in LPS-Stimulated RAW 264.7 Macrophages by Regulating NF-κB Signaling Pathway. Molecules 2023; 28:5817. [PMID: 37570786 PMCID: PMC10420984 DOI: 10.3390/molecules28155817] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2023] [Revised: 07/21/2023] [Accepted: 07/28/2023] [Indexed: 08/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Mesosphaerum suaveolens (L.) Kuntze (Syn. Hyptis suaveolens (L.) Poit.) is a wild essential-oil-bearing plant having multiple uses in traditional medicine, perfumery, food, agriculture, and pharmaceutical industries. The present paper is the first report on the in vitro anti-inflammatory effects of the leaf essential oil of M. suaveolens (MSLEO) and unravels its molecular mechanism in LPS-stimulated RAW 264.7 macrophage cells. GC-MS analysis of the essential oil (EO) isolated from the leaves by hydro-distillation led to the identification of 48 constituents, accounting for 90.55% of the total oil, and β-caryophyllene (16.17%), phyllocladene (11.85%), abietatriene (11.46%), and spathulenol (7.89%) were found to be the major components. MSLEO treatment had no effect on the viability of RAW 264.7 cells up to a concentration of 100 μg/mL, and the EO was responsible for a reduction in proinflammatory cytokines like IL-6, IL-1β, and TNF-α, a decrease in intracellular ROS production, and the restoration of oxidative damage by elevating the levels of endogenous antioxidative enzymes like CAT, SOD, GPx, and GSH. RT-qPCR analysis indicated that MSLEO reduced the mRNA expression levels of iNOS and COX-2 as compared to the LPS-induced group. In addition, a confocal microscopy analysis showed that MSLEO inhibited the translocation of NF-κB from the cytosol to the nucleus. The results of this experiment demonstrate that MSLEO possesses significant anti-inflammatory potential by preventing the activation of NF-κB, which, in turn, inhibits the downstream expression of other inflammatory mediators associated with the activation of the NF-κB pathway in LPS-induced RAW 264.7 cells. Thus, the leaf essential oil of M. suaveolens may prove to be a promising therapeutic agent for the treatment of inflammation, and targeting the NF-κB signaling pathway may be considered as an attractive approach for anti-inflammatory therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Pratap Chandra Panda
- Centre for Biotechnology, Siksha ‘O’ Anusandhan (Deemed to be University), Kalinga Nagar, Bhubaneswar 751003, India
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Romani A, Sergi D, Zauli E, Voltan R, Lodi G, Vaccarezza M, Caruso L, Previati M, Zauli G. Nutrients, herbal bioactive derivatives and commensal microbiota as tools to lower the risk of SARS-CoV-2 infection. Front Nutr 2023; 10:1152254. [PMID: 37324739 PMCID: PMC10267353 DOI: 10.3389/fnut.2023.1152254] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2023] [Accepted: 05/15/2023] [Indexed: 06/17/2023] Open
Abstract
The SARS-CoV-2 outbreak has infected a vast population across the world, causing more than 664 million cases and 6.7 million deaths by January 2023. Vaccination has been effective in reducing the most critical aftermath of this infection, but some issues are still present regarding re-infection prevention, effectiveness against variants, vaccine hesitancy and worldwide accessibility. Moreover, although several old and new antiviral drugs have been tested, we still lack robust and specific treatment modalities. It appears of utmost importance, facing this continuously growing pandemic, to focus on alternative practices grounded on firm scientific bases. In this article, we aim to outline a rigorous scientific background and propose complementary nutritional tools useful toward containment, and ultimately control, of SARS-CoV-2 infection. In particular, we review the mechanisms of viral entry and discuss the role of polyunsaturated fatty acids derived from α-linolenic acid and other nutrients in preventing the interaction of SARS-CoV-2 with its entry gateways. In a similar way, we analyze in detail the role of herbal-derived pharmacological compounds and specific microbial strains or microbial-derived polypeptides in the prevention of SARS-CoV-2 entry. In addition, we highlight the role of probiotics, nutrients and herbal-derived compounds in stimulating the immunity response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arianna Romani
- Department of Environmental and Prevention Sciences and LTTA Centre, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Domenico Sergi
- Department of Translational Medicine and LTTA Centre, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Enrico Zauli
- Department of Translational Medicine and LTTA Centre, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Rebecca Voltan
- Department of Environmental and Prevention Sciences and LTTA Centre, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Giada Lodi
- Department of Environmental and Prevention Sciences and LTTA Centre, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Mauro Vaccarezza
- Curtin Medical School & Curtin Health Innovation Research Institute (CHIRI), Faculty of Health Sciences, Curtin University, Perth, WA, Australia
| | - Lorenzo Caruso
- Department of Environmental and Prevention Sciences and LTTA Centre, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Maurizio Previati
- Department of Translational Medicine and LTTA Centre, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Giorgio Zauli
- Research Department, King Khaled Eye Specialistic Hospital, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
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Hopkins S, Kelley T, Roller R, Thompson RS, Colagiovanni DB, Chupka K, Fleshner M. Oral CBD-rich hemp extract modulates sterile inflammation in female and male rats. Front Physiol 2023; 14:1112906. [PMID: 37275221 PMCID: PMC10234154 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2023.1112906] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2022] [Accepted: 04/26/2023] [Indexed: 06/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Cannabidiol (CBD) extract from the cannabis plant has biomedical and nutraceutical potential. Unlike tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), CBD products produce few psychoactive effects and pose little risk for abuse. There is emerging preclinical and clinical evidence that CBD is stress modulatory and may have anti-inflammatory properties. People across the United States legally ingest CBD-rich hemp extracts to manage mental and physical health problems, including stress and inflammation. Preclinical studies have revealed potential mechanisms for these effects; however, the impact of this prior work is diminished because many studies: 1) tested synthetic CBD rather than CBD-rich hemp extracts containing terpenes and/or other cannabinoids thought to enhance therapeutic benefits; 2) administered CBD via injection into the peritoneal cavity or the brain instead of oral ingestion; and 3) failed to examine potential sex differences. To address these gaps in the literature, the following study tested the hypothesis that the voluntary oral ingestion of CBD-rich hemp extract will attenuate the impact of stressor exposure on plasma and tissue inflammatory and stress proteins in females and males. Methods: Adult male and female Sprague Dawley rats (10-15/group) were randomly assigned to be given cereal coated with either vehicle (coconut oil) or CBD-rich hemp extract (L-M0717, CBDrx/Functional Remedies, 20.0 mg/kg). After 7 days, rats were exposed to a well-established acute model of stress (100, 1.5 mA, 5-s, intermittent tail shocks, 90 min total duration) or remained in home cages as non-stressed controls. Results: Stressor exposure induced a robust stress response, i.e., increased plasma corticosterone and blood glucose, and decreased spleen weight (a surrogate measure of sympathetic nervous system activation). Overall, stress-induced increases in inflammatory and stress proteins were lower in females than males, and oral CBD-rich hemp extract constrained these responses in adipose tissue (AT) and mesenteric lymph nodes (MLN). Consistent with previous reports, females had higher levels of stress-evoked corticosterone compared to males, which may have contributed to the constrained inflammatory response measured in females. Discussion: Results from this study suggest that features of the acute stress response are impacted by oral ingestion of CBD-rich hemp extract in female and male rats, and the pattern of changes may be sex and tissue dependent.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shelby Hopkins
- Department of Integrative Physiology, University of Colorado at Boulder, Boulder, CO, United States
- Center for Neuroscience, University of Colorado at Boulder, Boulder, CO, United States
| | - Tel Kelley
- Department of Integrative Physiology, University of Colorado at Boulder, Boulder, CO, United States
| | - Rachel Roller
- Department of Integrative Physiology, University of Colorado at Boulder, Boulder, CO, United States
| | - Robert S. Thompson
- Department of Integrative Physiology, University of Colorado at Boulder, Boulder, CO, United States
- Center for Neuroscience, University of Colorado at Boulder, Boulder, CO, United States
| | | | - Kris Chupka
- Next Frontier Biosciences, Westminster, CO, United States
| | - Monika Fleshner
- Department of Integrative Physiology, University of Colorado at Boulder, Boulder, CO, United States
- Center for Neuroscience, University of Colorado at Boulder, Boulder, CO, United States
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Hasankhani A, Bahrami A, Tavakoli-Far B, Iranshahi S, Ghaemi F, Akbarizadeh MR, Amin AH, Abedi Kiasari B, Mohammadzadeh Shabestari A. The role of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors in the modulation of hyperinflammation induced by SARS-CoV-2 infection: A perspective for COVID-19 therapy. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1127358. [PMID: 36875108 PMCID: PMC9981974 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1127358] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2022] [Accepted: 02/08/2023] [Indexed: 02/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is a severe respiratory disease caused by infection with severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) that affects the lower and upper respiratory tract in humans. SARS-CoV-2 infection is associated with the induction of a cascade of uncontrolled inflammatory responses in the host, ultimately leading to hyperinflammation or cytokine storm. Indeed, cytokine storm is a hallmark of SARS-CoV-2 immunopathogenesis, directly related to the severity of the disease and mortality in COVID-19 patients. Considering the lack of any definitive treatment for COVID-19, targeting key inflammatory factors to regulate the inflammatory response in COVID-19 patients could be a fundamental step to developing effective therapeutic strategies against SARS-CoV-2 infection. Currently, in addition to well-defined metabolic actions, especially lipid metabolism and glucose utilization, there is growing evidence of a central role of the ligand-dependent nuclear receptors and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPARs) including PPARα, PPARβ/δ, and PPARγ in the control of inflammatory signals in various human inflammatory diseases. This makes them attractive targets for developing therapeutic approaches to control/suppress the hyperinflammatory response in patients with severe COVID-19. In this review, we (1) investigate the anti-inflammatory mechanisms mediated by PPARs and their ligands during SARS-CoV-2 infection, and (2) on the basis of the recent literature, highlight the importance of PPAR subtypes for the development of promising therapeutic approaches against the cytokine storm in severe COVID-19 patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aliakbar Hasankhani
- Department of Animal Science, College of Agriculture and Natural Resources, University of Tehran, Karaj, Iran
| | - Abolfazl Bahrami
- Department of Animal Science, College of Agriculture and Natural Resources, University of Tehran, Karaj, Iran
- Faculty of Agricultural Sciences and Engineering, University of Tehran, Karaj, Iran
| | - Bahareh Tavakoli-Far
- Dietary Supplements and Probiotic Research Center, Alborz University of Medical Sciences, Karaj, Iran
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Alborz University of Medical Sciences, Karaj, Iran
| | - Setare Iranshahi
- School of Pharmacy, Shahid Beheshty University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Farnaz Ghaemi
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Advanced Sciences and Technology, Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Majid Reza Akbarizadeh
- Department of Pediatric, School of Medicine, Amir al momenin Hospital, Zabol University of Medical Sciences, Zabol, Iran
| | - Ali H. Amin
- Zoology Department, Faculty of Science, Mansoura University, Mansoura, Egypt
| | - Bahman Abedi Kiasari
- Virology Department, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Alireza Mohammadzadeh Shabestari
- Department of Dental Surgery, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
- Khorasan Covid-19 Scientific Committee, Mashhad, Iran
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10
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Zhao Q, Zhu L, Wang S, Gao Y, Jin F. Molecular mechanism of the anti-inflammatory effects of plant essential oils: A systematic review. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2023; 301:115829. [PMID: 36252876 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2022.115829] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2022] [Revised: 10/05/2022] [Accepted: 10/08/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Plant essential oils (PEOs) extracted from aromatic compounds of the plant contain complex mixtures of volatile and lipophilic bioactive compounds. In ancient Egypt, Arabia, Greece, and China, PEOs were traditional used in aromatherapy for various health disorders, including pain and inflammation. AIM OF THE STUDY In this review, we provide an overview of the anti-inflammatory effects of PEOs and the underlying mechanisms associated with anti-inflammatory effects using in vitro and in vivo models. Further, clinical trials associated with PEOs were explored. MATERIALS AND METHODS The literature search was performed using various web-based tools and databases like Google Scholar, Web of Science, PubMed, CNKI and SCOPUS. The keywords used for conducting the literature review were general terms like "essential oils" followed by (AND) the subject of interest like "in vitro and/or in vivo anti-inflammatory models," "inflammatory response," "inflammatory indicators," "pro-inflammatory cytokines," "signaling pathway," "anti-inflammatory mechanism," "toxicology and side effects" and "clinical trials." The articles selected were published between 2017 and 2022. The articles prior to 2017 were only considered if they were associated with molecular mechanisms or signaling pathways involved in the inflammatory responses. RESULTS In vitro and in vivo inflammation models have been used to study the anti-inflammatory effects of 48 PEOs. Studies have reported that PEOs targets and inhibit multiple dysregulated signaling pathways associated with inflammation, including Toll-like receptors, nuclear transcription factor-κ B, mitogen-activated protein kinases, Nod-like receptor family pyrin domain containing 3, and auxiliary pathways like the nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2/antioxidant response element and Janus kinase/signal transducers and activators of transcription) signaling pathways. CONCLUSION PEOs extracted from different plant materials had varied qualitative and quantitative compositions of biologically active compounds. Different anti-inflammatory potentials and different molecular signal transduction have been attributed to PEOs-derived bioactive compounds with different chemical structures. The data on therapeutic efficacy and the long-term side effects of PEOs as an anti-inflammatory drug are still unknown due to the lack of clinical trials on PEOs. There is still insufficient evidence to draw conclusions on anti-inflammatory properties of PEOs without promising outcomes from clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qian Zhao
- College of Life Sciences, China Jiliang University, Aroma Engineering Technology Research and Development Center, Hangzhou, 310018, China.
| | - Liyun Zhu
- College of Life Sciences, China Jiliang University, Aroma Engineering Technology Research and Development Center, Hangzhou, 310018, China; Anhui Hanfang Biotechnology Co., Ltd, Huaibei, 23500, China.
| | - Sunan Wang
- Canadian Food and Wine Institute, Niagara College Canada, 135 Taylor Road, Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario, L0S1J0, Canada
| | - Yongsheng Gao
- College of Life Sciences, China Jiliang University, Aroma Engineering Technology Research and Development Center, Hangzhou, 310018, China; Anhui Hanfang Biotechnology Co., Ltd, Huaibei, 23500, China
| | - Fei Jin
- College of Life Sciences, China Jiliang University, Aroma Engineering Technology Research and Development Center, Hangzhou, 310018, China
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11
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Intranuovo F, Brunetti L, DelRe P, Mangiatordi GF, Stefanachi A, Laghezza A, Niso M, Leonetti F, Loiodice F, Ligresti A, Kostrzewa M, Brea J, Loza MI, Sotelo E, Saviano M, Colabufo NA, Riganti C, Abate C, Contino M. Development of N-(1-Adamantyl)benzamides as Novel Anti-Inflammatory Multitarget Agents Acting as Dual Modulators of the Cannabinoid CB2 Receptor and Fatty Acid Amide Hydrolase. J Med Chem 2023; 66:235-250. [PMID: 36542836 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jmedchem.2c01084] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Cannabinoid type 2 receptor (CB2R), belonging to the endocannabinoid system, is overexpressed in pathologies characterized by inflammation, and its activation counteracts inflammatory states. Fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH) is an enzyme responsible for the degradation of the main endocannabinoid anandamide; thus, the simultaneous CB2R activation and FAAH inhibition may be a synergistic anti-inflammatory strategy. Encouraged by principal component analysis (PCA) data identifying a wide chemical space shared by CB2R and FAAH ligands, we designed a small library of adamantyl-benzamides, as potential dual agents, CB2R agonists, and FAAH inhibitors. The new compounds were tested for their CB2R affinity/selectivity and CB2R and FAAH activity. Derivatives 13, 26, and 27, displaying the best pharmacodynamic profile as CB2R full agonists and FAAH inhibitors, decreased pro-inflammatory and increased anti-inflammatory cytokines production. Molecular docking simulations complemented the experimental findings by providing a molecular rationale behind the observed activities. These multitarget ligands constitute promising anti-inflammatory agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesca Intranuovo
- Dipartimento di Farmacia-Scienze Del Farmaco, Università Degli Studi di Bari ALDO MORO, Via Orabona 4, Bari 70125, Italy
| | - Leonardo Brunetti
- Dipartimento di Farmacia-Scienze Del Farmaco, Università Degli Studi di Bari ALDO MORO, Via Orabona 4, Bari 70125, Italy
| | - Pietro DelRe
- Institute of Crystallography, National Research Council of Italy, Via Amendola, 122/o, Bari 70126, Italy
| | | | - Angela Stefanachi
- Dipartimento di Farmacia-Scienze Del Farmaco, Università Degli Studi di Bari ALDO MORO, Via Orabona 4, Bari 70125, Italy
| | - Antonio Laghezza
- Dipartimento di Farmacia-Scienze Del Farmaco, Università Degli Studi di Bari ALDO MORO, Via Orabona 4, Bari 70125, Italy
| | - Mauro Niso
- Dipartimento di Farmacia-Scienze Del Farmaco, Università Degli Studi di Bari ALDO MORO, Via Orabona 4, Bari 70125, Italy
| | - Francesco Leonetti
- Dipartimento di Farmacia-Scienze Del Farmaco, Università Degli Studi di Bari ALDO MORO, Via Orabona 4, Bari 70125, Italy
| | - Fulvio Loiodice
- Dipartimento di Farmacia-Scienze Del Farmaco, Università Degli Studi di Bari ALDO MORO, Via Orabona 4, Bari 70125, Italy
| | - Alessia Ligresti
- Institute of Biomolecular Chemistry, National Research Council of Italy, Via Campi Flegrei 34, Pozzuoli 80078, Italy
| | - Magdalena Kostrzewa
- Institute of Biomolecular Chemistry, National Research Council of Italy, Via Campi Flegrei 34, Pozzuoli 80078, Italy
| | - Jose Brea
- Innopharma Screening Platform, BioFarma Research Group, Center for Research in Molecular Medicine and Chronic Diseases (CIMUS), University of Santiago de Compostela, Santiago de Compostela 15782, Spain.,Department of Pharmacology, Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Technology. School of Pharmacy, University of Santiago de Compostela, Santiago de Compostela 15782, Spain
| | - Maria Isabel Loza
- Innopharma Screening Platform, BioFarma Research Group, Center for Research in Molecular Medicine and Chronic Diseases (CIMUS), University of Santiago de Compostela, Santiago de Compostela 15782, Spain.,Department of Pharmacology, Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Technology. School of Pharmacy, University of Santiago de Compostela, Santiago de Compostela 15782, Spain
| | - Eddy Sotelo
- ComBioMed Research Group, Centro de Química Biológica y Materiales Moleculares (CIQUS), University of Santiago de Compostela, Santiago de Compostela 15782, Spain
| | - Michele Saviano
- Institute of Crystallography, National Research Council of Italy, Via Vivaldi, 43, Caserta 81100, Italy
| | - Nicola Antonio Colabufo
- Dipartimento di Farmacia-Scienze Del Farmaco, Università Degli Studi di Bari ALDO MORO, Via Orabona 4, Bari 70125, Italy
| | - Chiara Riganti
- Dipartimento di Oncologia, Università Degli Studi di Torino, Torino 10126, Italy
| | - Carmen Abate
- Dipartimento di Farmacia-Scienze Del Farmaco, Università Degli Studi di Bari ALDO MORO, Via Orabona 4, Bari 70125, Italy.,Institute of Crystallography, National Research Council of Italy, Via Amendola, 122/o, Bari 70126, Italy
| | - Marialessandra Contino
- Dipartimento di Farmacia-Scienze Del Farmaco, Università Degli Studi di Bari ALDO MORO, Via Orabona 4, Bari 70125, Italy
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12
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β-Caryophyllene Acts as a Ferroptosis Inhibitor to Ameliorate Experimental Colitis. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms232416055. [PMID: 36555694 PMCID: PMC9784863 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232416055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2022] [Revised: 12/10/2022] [Accepted: 12/13/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Macrophage infiltration is one of the main pathological features of ulcerative colitis (UC) and ferroptosis is a type of nonapoptotic cell death, connecting oxidative stress and inflammation. However, whether ferroptosis occurs in the colon macrophages of UC mice and whether targeting macrophage ferroptosis is an effective approach for UC treatment remain unclear. The present study revealed that macrophage lipid peroxidation was observed in the colon of UC mice. Subsequently, we screened several main components of essential oil from Artemisia argyi and found that β-caryophyllene (BCP) had a good inhibitory effect on macrophage lipid peroxidation. Additionally, ferroptotic macrophages were found to increase the mRNA expression of tumor necrosis factor alpha (Tnf-α) and prostaglandin-endoperoxide synthase 2 (Ptgs2), while BCP can reverse the effects of inflammation activated by ferroptosis. Further molecular mechanism studies revealed that BCP activated the type 2 cannabinoid receptor (CB2R) to inhibit macrophage ferroptosis and its induced inflammatory response both in vivo and in vitro. Taken together, BCP potentially ameliorated experimental colitis inflammation by inhibiting macrophage ferroptosis. These results revealed that macrophage ferroptosis is a potential therapeutic target for UC and identified a novel mechanism of BCP in ameliorating experimental colitis.
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13
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Mani V, Balraj M, Rajapandian N, Jinka C, Babu S. Hypolipidemic effect of β-caryophyllene in high fat diet and fructose induced type-2 diabetic adult male rats. Bioinformation 2022; 18:1087-1091. [PMID: 37693084 PMCID: PMC10484697 DOI: 10.6026/973206300181087] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2022] [Revised: 11/29/2022] [Accepted: 11/30/2022] [Indexed: 09/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Skeletal muscle is responsible for the majority of insulin-stimulated whole-body glucose elimination, under normal circumstances. High dietary fat consumption increases stored fat mass and is a major risk factor for metabolic disorders. The conventional pharmacological treatments are associated with many adverse side effects and high rates of secondary failure which lead to an increasing demand for natural products with anti-diabetic activity and lesser side effects. β-Caryophyllene is a naturally occurring sequiterpene that may be found in cannabis and a range of culinary herbs and spices. It contains antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-lipidemic effects, among others. However, the effect of β-Caryophyllene on glucose absorption and oxidation, is yet unknown. Hence, the current study was intended to investigate the anti-diabetic impact of β-Caryophyllene in type-2 diabetes caused by a high-fat diet. To evaluate its anti-diabetic efficacy, high fat diet and fructose-induced type-2 diabetic rats were administered an effective dosage of β-Caryophyllene (200 mg/kg b.wt, orally for 30 days). The treatment of diabetes-induced rats with β-Caryophyllene restored the altered levels of blood glucose, serum insulin as well as lipid parameters. Our findings show that β-caryophyllene improves glycemia control by alleviating dyslipidemia in type-2 diabetic rats. From the present findings, it is evident that β-caryophyllene can be used as an anti-diabetic drug.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vadivel Mani
- Department of Biochemistry, Arunai Medical College and Hospital, Tiruvanamallai- 606603, Tamilnadu, India
| | - Manikandan Balraj
- Department of Physiology, Konaseema Institute of Medical Sciences and Research Foundation, Amalapuram, East Godavari Dt-533201, Andhra Pradesh, India
| | - Nithya Rajapandian
- Department of Physiology, Arunai Medical College and Hospital, Tiruvanamallai- 606603, Tamilnadu, India
| | - Chaitra Jinka
- Syngene International Limited, Biocon park, Bangalore, Karnataka, India
| | - Shyamaladevi Babu
- Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, Chettinad Hospital and Research Institute, Chettinad Academy of Research and Education, Kelambakkam - 603103, Tamil Nadu, India
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14
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Gaylis NB, Kreychman I, Sagliani J, Mograbi J, Gabet Y. The results of a unique dietary supplement (nutraceutical formulation) used to treat the symptoms of long-haul COVID. Front Nutr 2022; 9:1034169. [DOI: 10.3389/fnut.2022.1034169] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2022] [Accepted: 10/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Long-COVID is a syndrome characterized by debilitating symptoms that persist over 3 months after infection with the SARS-CoV-2 virus. It affects 15 to 33% of COVID-19 recovered patients and has no dedicated treatment. First, we found that β-caryophyllene and pregnenolone have a significant synergistic effect in the resolution of LPS-induced sepsis and inflammation in mice. Then we combined these two compounds with seven others and designed a unique dietary supplement formulation to alleviate long COVID inflammatory and neurological disorders. We performed a one-arm open-labeled study at a single site with 51 eligible patients from 18 states. Each participant recorded the severity level of 12 symptoms (including fatigue, weakness, cardiac and neurological symptoms, shortness of breath, gastrointestinal disorders, ageusia or anosmia, anxiety, joint pain, rash, cough, and insomnia) at baseline, 2- and 4-week time points. On average, all the symptoms were significantly milder after 2 weeks, with further improvement after 4 weeks. Importantly, each symptom was significantly attenuated in 72 to 84% of the participants. There were no significant adverse effects. Our data indicate that the use of this nutraceutical product is a safe and significantly efficient option to reduce multiple symptoms of long COVID.
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15
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Multi-Target Effects of ß-Caryophyllene and Carnosic Acid at the Crossroads of Mitochondrial Dysfunction and Neurodegeneration: From Oxidative Stress to Microglia-Mediated Neuroinflammation. Antioxidants (Basel) 2022; 11:antiox11061199. [PMID: 35740096 PMCID: PMC9220155 DOI: 10.3390/antiox11061199] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2022] [Revised: 06/13/2022] [Accepted: 06/17/2022] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Inflammation and oxidative stress are interlinked and interdependent processes involved in many chronic diseases, including neurodegeneration, diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and cancer. Therefore, targeting inflammatory pathways may represent a potential therapeutic strategy. Emerging evidence indicates that many phytochemicals extracted from edible plants have the potential to ameliorate the disease phenotypes. In this scenario, ß-caryophyllene (BCP), a bicyclic sesquiterpene, and carnosic acid (CA), an ortho-diphenolic diterpene, were demonstrated to exhibit anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant activities, as well as neuroprotective and mitoprotective effects in different in vitro and in vivo models. BCP essentially promotes its effects by acting as a selective agonist and allosteric modulator of cannabinoid type-2 receptor (CB2R). CA is a pro-electrophilic compound that, in response to oxidation, is converted to its electrophilic form. This can interact and activate the Keap1/Nrf2/ARE transcription pathway, triggering the synthesis of endogenous antioxidant “phase 2” enzymes. However, given the nature of its chemical structure, CA also exhibits direct antioxidant effects. BCP and CA can readily cross the BBB and accumulate in brain regions, giving rise to neuroprotective effects by preventing mitochondrial dysfunction and inhibiting activated microglia, substantially through the activation of pro-survival signalling pathways, including regulation of apoptosis and autophagy, and molecular mechanisms related to mitochondrial quality control. Findings from different in vitro/in vivo experimental models of Parkinson’s disease and Alzheimer’s disease reported the beneficial effects of both compounds, suggesting that their use in treatments may be a promising strategy in the management of neurodegenerative diseases aimed at maintaining mitochondrial homeostasis and ameliorating glia-mediated neuroinflammation.
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16
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Enhanced Oral Bioavailability of β-Caryophyllene in Healthy Subjects Using the VESIsorb® Formulation Technology, a Novel Self-Emulsifying Drug Delivery System (SEDDS). Molecules 2022; 27:molecules27092860. [PMID: 35566210 PMCID: PMC9104399 DOI: 10.3390/molecules27092860] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2022] [Revised: 04/28/2022] [Accepted: 04/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
β-Caryophyllene (BCP), a common constituent of many spice and food plants, is gaining increased attention due to recent research identifying numerous potential health benefits. Due to limited oral bioavailability observed in preclinical models, the described benefits of BCP may be maximized by using a suitable delivery system. Additionally, human pharmacokinetics (PK) remain unknown. This study evaluates the relative oral bioavailability of BCP formulated in a self-emulsifying drug delivery system (SEDDS) based on VESIsorb® formulation technology (BCP-SEDDS) compared to BCP neat oil. Hence, a randomized, double-blind, cross-over design, single oral dose study (100 mg BCP) in 24 healthy subjects (12 men/12 women) was performed under fasting conditions. Pharmacokinetic parameters were analyzed from individual concentration-time curves. The data show that BCP-SEDDS resulted in a 2.2/2.0-fold increase in AUC0–12h/AUC0–24h and a 3.6-fold increase in Cmax compared to BCP neat oil. Moreover, BCP was absorbed faster from BCP-SEDDS (Tmax: 1.43 h) compared to BCP neat oil (Tmax: 3.07 h). Gender analysis revealed that there is no significant difference between men and women for both the investigated formulations and all investigated PK endpoints. In conclusion, BCP-SEDDS offers a well-tolerated and effective oral delivery system to significantly enhance the oral bioavailability of BCP in humans.
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17
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Janecki M, Graczyk M, Lewandowska AA, Pawlak Ł. Anti-Inflammatory and Antiviral Effects of Cannabinoids in Inhibiting and Preventing SARS-CoV-2 Infection. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23084170. [PMID: 35456990 PMCID: PMC9025270 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23084170] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2022] [Revised: 03/31/2022] [Accepted: 04/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus made it necessary to search for new options for both causal treatment and mitigation of its symptoms. Scientists and researchers around the world are constantly looking for the best therapeutic options. These difficult circumstances have also spurred the re-examination of the potential of natural substances contained in Cannabis sativa L. Cannabinoids, apart from CB1 and CB2 receptors, may act multifacetedly through a number of other receptors, such as the GPR55, TRPV1, PPARs, 5-HT1A, adenosine and glycine receptors. The complex anti-inflammatory and antiviral effects of cannabinoids have been confirmed by interactions with various signaling pathways. Considering the fact that the SARS-CoV-2 virus causes excessive immune response and triggers an inflammatory cascade, and that cannabinoids have the ability to regulate these processes, it can be assumed that they have potential to be used in the treatment of COVID-19. During the pandemic, there were many publications on the subject of COVID-19, which indicate the potential impact of cannabinoids not only on the course of the disease, but also their role in prevention. It is worth noting that the anti-inflammatory and antiviral potential are shown not only by well-known cannabinoids, such as cannabidiol (CBD), but also secondary cannabinoids, such as cannabigerolic acid (CBGA) and terpenes, emphasizing the role of all of the plant’s compounds and the entourage effect. This article presents a narrative review of the current knowledge in this area available in the PubMed, Scopus and Web of Science medical databases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marcin Janecki
- Department of Palliative Care and Palliative Medicine, Silesian Medical University in Katowice, 40-752 Katowice, Poland;
| | - Michał Graczyk
- Department of Palliative Care, Collegium Medicum in Bydgoszcz, Nicolaus Copernicus University in Toruń, 87-100 Toruń, Poland
- Correspondence: (M.G.); (A.A.L.)
| | - Agata Anna Lewandowska
- 10th Military Research Hospital and Polyclinic in Bydgoszcz, 85-681 Bydgoszcz, Poland
- Correspondence: (M.G.); (A.A.L.)
| | - Łukasz Pawlak
- Collegium Medicum in Bydgoszcz, Nicolaus Copernicus University in Toruń, 87-100 Toruń, Poland;
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Screening of Natural Products Inhibitors of SARS-CoV-2 Entry. MOLECULES (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2022; 27:molecules27051743. [PMID: 35268843 PMCID: PMC8911944 DOI: 10.3390/molecules27051743] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2021] [Revised: 02/17/2022] [Accepted: 02/24/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic has led to the search for new molecules with antiviral activity against SARS-CoV-2. The entry of the virus into the cell is one of the main targets for inhibiting SARS-CoV-2 infection. Natural products are an important source of new therapeutic alternatives against diseases. Pseudotyped viruses allow the study of SARS-CoV-2 viral entry inhibitors, and due to their simplicity, they allow the screening of a large number of antiviral candidates in Biosafety Level 2 facilities. We used pseudotyped HIV-1 with the D614G SARS-CoV-2 spike glycoprotein to test its ability to infect ACE2-expressing HEK 293T cells in the presence of diverse natural products, including 21 plant extracts, 7 essential oils, and 13 compounds from plants and fungi. The 50% cytotoxic concentration (CC50) was evaluated using the resazurin method. From these analyses, we determined the inhibitory activity of the extract of Stachytarpheta cayennensis, which had a half-maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) of 91.65 µg/mL, a CC50 of 693.5 µg/mL, and a selectivity index (SI) of 7.57, indicating its potential use as an inhibitor of SARS-CoV-2 entry. Moreover, our work indicates the usefulness of the pseudotyped-virus system in the screening of SARS-CoV-2 entry inhibitors.
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Vladić J, Duarte ARC, Radman S, Simić S, Jerković I. Enzymatic and Microwave Pretreatments and Supercritical CO 2 Extraction for Improving Extraction Efficiency and Quality of Origanum vulgare L. spp. hirtum Extracts. PLANTS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2021; 11:54. [PMID: 35009059 PMCID: PMC8747452 DOI: 10.3390/plants11010054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2021] [Revised: 12/15/2021] [Accepted: 12/22/2021] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
The goal of the study was to establish a procedure for improving the efficiency of supercritical carbon dioxide (scCO2) extraction of Origanum vulgare L. spp. hirtum (Greek oregano) and enhancing the quality of obtained extracts. Microwave and enzymatic pretreatments of the plant material were applied prior to the scCO2 extraction. It was determined that the microwave pretreatment with irradiation power 360 W during 2 min accelerated the extraction of lipophilic compounds and provided a twofold higher extraction yield compared to the control. Moreover, this pretreatment also led to an increase in oxygenated monoterpenes content and the most dominant component carvacrol, as well as the extracts' antioxidant activity. The enzymatic pretreatment caused a significant increase in the extraction yield and the attainment of the extract with the most potent antioxidant properties. Coupling the pretreatments with scCO2 extraction improves the process of obtaining high value lipophilic products of oregano in terms of utilization of the plant material, acceleration of the extraction with the possibility to adjust its selectivity and quality of extracts, and enhancement of biological activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jelena Vladić
- Faculdade de Ciências e Tecnologia, Universidade Nova de Lisboa, 2829-516 Caparica, Portugal;
- Faculty of Technology, University of Novi Sad, Bulevar cara Lazara 1, 21000 Novi Sad, Serbia;
| | - Ana Rita C. Duarte
- Faculdade de Ciências e Tecnologia, Universidade Nova de Lisboa, 2829-516 Caparica, Portugal;
| | - Sanja Radman
- Faculty of Chemistry and Technology, University of Split, Ruđera Boškovića 35, 21000 Split, Croatia; (S.R.); (I.J.)
| | - Siniša Simić
- Faculty of Technology, University of Novi Sad, Bulevar cara Lazara 1, 21000 Novi Sad, Serbia;
| | - Igor Jerković
- Faculty of Chemistry and Technology, University of Split, Ruđera Boškovića 35, 21000 Split, Croatia; (S.R.); (I.J.)
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Wang JB, Andrade-Cetto A, Echeverria J, Wardle J, Yen HR, Heinrich M. Editorial: Ethnopharmacological Responses to the Coronavirus Disease 2019 Pandemic. Front Pharmacol 2021; 12:798674. [PMID: 34925048 PMCID: PMC8678406 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2021.798674] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2021] [Accepted: 11/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Jia-Bo Wang
- School of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Adolfo Andrade-Cetto
- Laboratorio de Etnofarmacología, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Javier Echeverria
- Departamento de Ciencias del Ambiente, Facultad de Química y Biología, Universidad de Santiago de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Jon Wardle
- National Centre for Naturopathic Medicine, Southern Cross University, Lismore, NSW, Australia
| | - Hung-Rong Yen
- Chinese Medicine Research Center and College of Chinese Medicine, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan
| | - Michael Heinrich
- Research Group "Pharmacognosy and Phytotherapy", UCL School of Pharmacy, University of London, London, United Kingdom
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21
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Chapman RL, Andurkar SV. A review of natural products, their effects on SARS-CoV-2 and their utility as lead compounds in the discovery of drugs for the treatment of COVID-19. Med Chem Res 2021; 31:40-51. [PMID: 34873386 PMCID: PMC8636070 DOI: 10.1007/s00044-021-02826-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2021] [Accepted: 11/15/2021] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
During the COVID-19 pandemic lasting now for well more than a year, nearly 247 million cases have been diagnosed and over 5 million deaths have been recorded worldwide as of November 2021. The devastating effects of the SARS-CoV-2 virus on the immune system lead to the activation of signaling pathways involved in inflammation and the production of inflammatory cytokines. SARS-CoV-2 displays a great deal of homology with other coronaviruses, especially SARS-CoV and MERS-CoV which all display similar components which may serve as targets, namely the Spike (S) protein, the main protease (MPro) which is a chymotrypsin-like protease (CLPro) and RNA-directed RNA polymerase (RdRp). Natural constituents found in traditional herbal medicines, dietary supplements and foods demonstrate activity against SARS-CoV-2 by affecting the production of cytokines, modulating cell signaling pathways related to inflammation and even by direct interaction with targets found in the virus. This has been demonstrated by the application of fluorescence resonance energy transfer (FRET) experiments, assays of cytopathic effect (CPE) and in silico molecular docking studies that estimate binding strength. Glycyrrhizin, flavonoids such as quercetin, kaempferol and baicalein, and other polyphenols are the most common constituents found in Traditional Chinese Medicines that modulate inflammation and cell signaling pathways, and bind viral targets demonstrating valuable effects against SARS-CoV-2. However, the bioavailability of these natural products and their dependence on each other in extracts make it difficult to assess their actual utility in the treatment of COVID-19. Therefore, more can be learned through rational drug design based on natural products and from well-designed clinical trials employing specific doses of standardized combinations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert L Chapman
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Midwestern University College of Pharmacy, 555 31st Street Downers Grove, Downers Grove, IL 60515 United States
| | - Shridhar V Andurkar
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Midwestern University College of Pharmacy, 555 31st Street Downers Grove, Downers Grove, IL 60515 United States
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Can SARS-CoV-2 Induce Uterine Vascular Anomalies and Poor Contractile Response?-A Case Report. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2021; 57:medicina57070670. [PMID: 34209533 PMCID: PMC8303955 DOI: 10.3390/medicina57070670] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2021] [Revised: 06/23/2021] [Accepted: 06/27/2021] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
We are reporting a case of a 36 year-old Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) positive hypertensive primigravida with postpartum uterine atony that required emergency subtotal hysterectomy at Saint John Hospital Bucur Maternity Bucharest. The maternity was designated as the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) Maternity for Bucharest and Ilfov County since March 2020. The patient was mildly symptomatic for SARS-CoV-2, infection confirmed with reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). The caesarean section was performed and a live male fetus was born, 2630 g and Apgar Score of 9 (the male fetus was negative for SARS-CoV-2). Postpartum hysterectomy with adnexal preservation was performed because of uterine atony. The postoperative evolution was favorable. The patient was discharged with her baby 10 days after birth. Given the limited resources, the placenta, the umbilical cord and the uterus were not tested for SARS-CoV-2. The pathology exam revealed that on the maternal side there were specific uterine atony lesions as well as endometrial and miometrial ischaemia. The placenta had nonspecific findings: chronic ischemic lesions with small villi, fibrin deposits in the materno-fetal interface. The peculiarity of the case is that we report the morphological findings of the placenta and uterus resulted from intrapartum uterine atonia in a patient with gestational arterial hypertension, premature birth and COVID-19. Further studies are required to characterize the pattern of such intricate conditions.
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