Potential Antioxidative and Anti-Hyperuricemic Components Targeting Superoxide Dismutase and Xanthine Oxidase Explored from Polygonatum Sibiricum Red

Flavonoids from the genus Polygonatum: biological activities and biosynthesis mechanism

The genus Polygonatum is a medicinal plant that has been used as food for a long time, containing various biologically active compounds, including polysaccharides, saponins, flavonoids, alkaloids, and many others. Polygonatum, like other Chinese herbal plants, can be employed as natural medicines, exhibiting a reduced incidence of adverse effects compared to synthetic pharmaceuticals. Flavonoids are key biomarkers that indicate the quality of the genus Polygonatum, and constitute one of the primary active ingredients. Additionally, flavonoids exhibit a range of nutritional, biological and health-promoting characteristics, including antibacterial, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antitumor, and hypoglycemic properties. This paper reviewed biosynthesis and bioactivities of flavonoids from the genus Polygonatum. We hope that this paper would ultimately serve as a valuable reference for the development of flavonoid-related functional foods from the genus Polygonatum.

Exploring the chemistry, biological effects, and mechanism insights of natural coumaroyltyramine: First report

Today, pharmaceutical drugs have been shown to have serious side effects, while the bioactive components of botanical plants are proven to be effective in the treatment of several diseases marked by enhanced oxidative stress and mild inflammation, often associated with minimal adverse events. Coumaroyltyramine, designated by various nomenclatures such as paprazine, N-p-trans-coumaroyltyramine, p-coumaroyltyramine and N-p-coumaroyltyramine, could be a promising bioactive ingredient to address health issues thanks to its powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. This review represents the first in-depth analysis of coumaroyltyramine, an intriguing phenylpropanoid substance found in many species of plants. In fact, an in-depth examination of coumaroyltyramine's biological characteristics, chemical attributes, and synthesis process has been undertaken. All previous research relating to the discovery, extraction, biosynthesis, and characterization of the biologically and pharmacologically active properties of coumaroyltyramine has been reviewed and taken into consideration in this analysis. All articles published in a peer-reviewed English-language journal were examined between the initial compilations of the appropriate database until February 12, 2024. A variety of phytochemicals revealed that coumaroyltyramine is a neutral amide of hydroxycinnamic acid that tends to concentrate in plants as a reaction against infection caused by pathogens and is extracted from several medicinal herbs such as Cannabis sativa, Solanum melongena, Allium bakeri, Annona cherimola, Polygonatum zanlanscianense, and Lycopersicon esculentum. Thanks to its effectiveness in suppressing the effect of the enzyme α-glucosidase, coumaroltyramine has demonstrated antihyperglycemic activity and could have an impact on diabetes and metabolic disorders. It has considerable anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. These results were obtained through biological and pharmacological studies in silico, in vivo, and in vitro. In addition, coumaroyltyramine has demonstrated hypocholesterolemic and neuroprotective benefits, thereby diminishing heart and vascular disease incidence and helping to prevent neurological disorders. Other interesting properties of coumaroltyramine include anticancer, antibacterial, anti-urease, antifungal, antiviral, and antidysmenorrheal activities. Targeted pathways encompass activity at different molecular levels, notably through induction of endoplasmic reticulum stress-dependent apoptosis, arrest of the cell cycle, and inhibition of the growth of cancer cells, survival, and proliferation. Although the findings from in silico, in vivo, and in vitro experiments illustrate coumaroyltyramine's properties and modes of action, further research is needed to fully exploit its therapeutic potential. To improve our understanding of the compound's pharmacodynamic effects and pharmacokinetic routes, large-scale research should first be undertaken. To determine whether coumaroyltyramine is clinically safe and effective, further studies are required in the clinical and toxicological fields. This upcoming research will be crucial to achieving the overall potency of this substance as a natural drug and in terms of its potential synergies with other drugs.

Exploration of the pharmacological components and therapeutic mechanisms in treatment of Alzheimer's disease with Polygonati Rhizoma and its processed product using combined analysis of metabolomics, network pharmacology, and gut microbiota

Polygonati Rhizoma (PR, Huangjing in Chinese) and its processed product (PRP), which are used in Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) for cognitive enhancement and treatment of Alzheimer's disease (AD), have not been fully explored in terms of the different mechanisms underlying their anti-AD effects. Therefore, we used APP/PS1 mice as an AD model to assess the effects of PR and PRP on anxiety-like behaviors, cognitive function, memory performance, and pathological changes in the murine brain. UPLC-HRMS was applied to identify the components of PR and PRP that entered into the blood and brain. Network pharmacology was used to elucidate potential mechanisms underlying the improvement of AD. Differences in the intestinal flora composition between mice treated with PR and PRP were investigated using 16S rRNA sequencing, establishing a correlation between pharmacological components and distinct flora profiles. The results revealed that both PR and PRP interventions ameliorated cognitive deficits and attenuated Amyloid β (Aβ) plaque deposition in the brains of AD mice. Seven specific blood-entering components, namely glutamic acid, Phe-Phe, and uridine, etc., were associated with PR intervention, whereas ten specific blood-entering components including (2R,3S)-3-isopropylmalate, 3-methylhexahydropyrrolo[1,2-a]pyrazine-1,4-dione, and 3-methoxytyrosine were related to PRP intervention. Uridine was identified as a common brain-penetrating component in both PR and PRP interventions. Network pharmacology analysis suggested that the NOD-like receptor signaling pathway, Calcium signaling pathway and Alzheimer's disease were specific pathways targeted in AD treatment using PR intervention. Moreover, the apoptosis pathway was specifically linked to AD treatment during PRP intervention. Furthermore, the administration of both PR and PRP enhanced the abundance and diversity of the intestinal flora in APP/PS1 mice. Western blotting confirmed that PR excels in regulates inflammation, whereas PRP balances autophagy and apoptosis to alleviate the progression of AD. This study offers valuable insights and establishes a robust foundation for further comprehensive exploration of the intrinsic correlation between TCM and AD.

Research progress on medicinal components and pharmacological activities of polygonatum sibiricum

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Polygonatum sibiricum, commonly known as Siberian Solomon's seal, is a traditional herb widely used in various traditional medical systems, especially in East Asia. In ancient China, the use of polygonatum sibiricum in medicine and food was mentioned in Li Shizhen's Bencao Gangmu of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM). It was also used in history of India in Vedic medicine. The plant is rich in bioactive substances such as polysaccharides, saponins, flavonoid and alkaloids.

AIM OF THE REVIEW

The aim of this review is to understand the pharmacological and pharmacokinetics research progress of the major components of polygonatum sibiricum, and to prospect its potential application and development in the treatment of various diseases.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We conducted a systematic literature search against major online databases on the Web, including PubMed, ancient books, patents, PubMed, Wiley, Google Scholar, Web of Science, and others. We select the pharmacological process and mechanism of the main components of polygonatum sibiricum in a variety of diseases, and make a strict but careful supplement and in-depth elaboration to this review.

RESULTS

Several studies have demonstrated the strong antioxidant properties of polygonatum extract, which can be attributed to the presence of flavonoids and other polyphenol compounds; for diabetes and other metabolic-related diseases, polygonatum saponins have particular advantages in regulating intestinal flora and lipoprotein concentration in organisms. In addition, the polysaccharides extracted from this plant have a strong anti-inflammatory effect, which is related to its ability to regulate proinflammatory cytokine and mediators. In the aspect of anti-tumor effect, polygonatum derivatives can induce cancer cell apoptosis mainly by adjusting the cell membrane potential and cell cycle. It is worth noting that the combined action of the main components of polygonatum also offers promising solutions for the treatment of the disease.

CONCLUSION

Polygonatum polysaccharide has therapeutic effects on many diseases by adjusting cell signal pathways, polygonatum sibiricum have significant advantages in regulating intestinal flora, inducing apoptosis of tumor cells, activating antioxidant processes, etc. Further research and basic exploration are needed to prove the function and mechanisms of the main components of polygonatum sibiricum on related diseases. The study on the immunomodulatory properties of polygonatum revealed its potentiality of enhancing immune function, which made it an interesting subject for further exploration in the field of immunotherapy.

Efficient and fast screening and separation based on computer-aided screening and complex chromatography methods for lipoxygenase inhibitors from Ganoderma lucidum

INTRODUCTION

Accurate screening and targeted preparative isolation of active substances from natural medicines have long been technical challenges in natural medicine research.

OBJECTIVES

This study outlines a new approach for improving the efficiency of natural product preparation, focusing on the rapid and accurate screening of potential active ingredients in Ganoderma lucidum and efficient preparation of lipoxidase inhibitors, with the aim of providing new ideas for the treatment of Alzheimer's disease with G. lucidum.

METHODS

The medicinal plant G. lucidum was selected through ultrafiltration coupled with liquid chromatography and mass spectrometry (UF-LC-MS) and computer-assisted screening for lipoxygenase (LOX) inhibitors. In addition, the inhibitory effect of the active compounds on LOX was studied using enzymatic reaction kinetics, and the underlying mechanism is discussed. Finally, based on the earlier activity screening guidelines, the identified ligands were isolated and purified through complex chromatography (high-speed countercurrent chromatography and semi-preparative high-performance liquid chromatography).

RESULTS

Five active ingredients, ganoderic acids A, B, C2, D2, and F, were identified and isolated from G. lucidum. We improved the efficiency and purity of active compound preparation using virtual computer screening and enzyme inhibition assays combined with complex chromatography.

CONCLUSION

The innovative methods of UF-LC-MS, computer-aided screening, and complex chromatography provide powerful tools for screening and separating LOX inhibitors from complex matrices and provide a favourable platform for the large-scale production of bioactive substances and nutrients.

Non-Volatile Component and Antioxidant Activity: A Comparative Analysis between Litsea cubeba Branches and Leaves

Litsea cubeba, which is found widely distributed across the Asian region, functions as both an economic tree and a medicinal plant with a rich historical background. Previous investigations into its chemical composition and biological activity have predominantly centered on volatile components, leaving the study of non-volatile components relatively unexplored. In this study, we employed UPLC-HRMS technology to analyze the non-volatile components of L. cubeba branches and leaves, which successfully resulted in identifying 72 constituents. Comparative analysis between branches and leaves unveiled alkaloids, organic acids, and flavonoids as the major components. However, noteworthy differences in the distribution of these components between branches and leaves were observed, with only eight shared constituents, indicating substantial chemical variations in different parts of L. cubeba. Particularly, 24 compounds were identified for the first time from this plant. The assessment of antioxidant activity using four methods (ABTS, DPPH, FRAP, and CUPRAC) demonstrated remarkable antioxidant capabilities in both branches and leaves, with slightly higher efficacy observed in branches. This suggests that L. cubeba may act as a potential natural antioxidant with applications in health and therapeutic interventions. In conclusion, the chemical composition and antioxidant activity of L. cubeba provides a scientific foundation for its development and utilization in medicine and health products, offering promising avenues for the rational exploitation of L. cubeba resources in the future.

In-depth analysis of the xanthine oxidase inhibitors of Cicer arietinum L.-based receptor-ligand affinity coupled with complex chromatography

INTRODUCTION

Cicer arietinum L. is the choice of health food for people with diabetes, hypertension, and hyperlipidemia. As an essential source of high-nutrition legumes, it is also an important source of dietary isoflavones.

OBJECTIVES

In order to improve the preparation efficiency of natural plants, a rapid biological activity screening and preparation of xanthine oxidase inhibitors from C. arietinum L. was established.

METHODS

Xanthine oxidase (XOD) inhibitors were rapidly screened using ultrafiltration liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (UF-LC-MS) based on receptor-ligand affinity. The change in XOD activity was evaluated by enzymatic reaction kinetics measurement. The potential bioactive compounds were verified through molecular docking. In addition, the biological activity of ligands screened was separated and purified by complex chromatography. The structures of the compounds were identified by nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy.

RESULTS

Three active ingredients, namely daidzin, daidzein, calycosin with XOD binding affinities were identified and isolated from the raw plant materials via semi-preparative high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), 0-60 min, 5-50% B and countercurrent chromatography (CCC) (ethyl acetate/acetic acid/water [5:0.8:10, v/v/v]).

CONCLUSION

This study will help to elucidate the mechanisms of action of natural plants of interest at the molecular level and could also provide more opportunities for the discovery and development of new nutritional value from other natural resources.

Widely Targeted Metabolomics Reveals the Effects of Soil on the Metabolites in Dioscorea opposita Thunb

Chinese yam (Dioscorea opposita Thunb. cv. Tiegun), a type of homologous medicinal plant, mainly grows in sandy soil (SCY) and loessial soil (LCY). However, the effects of the soil on the metabolites in SCY and LCY remain unclear. Herein, this study aims to comprehensively elucidate the metabolites in SCY and LCY. A UPLC-MS/MS-based, widely targeted metabolomics approach was adapted to compare the chemical composition of SCY and LCY. A total of 988 metabolites were detected, including 443 primary metabolites, 510 secondary metabolites, and 35 other compounds. Notably, 177 differential metabolites (classified into 12 categories) were identified between SCY and LCY; among them, 85.9% (152 differential metabolites) were upregulated in LCY. LCY significantly increased the contents of primary metabolites such as 38 lipids and 6 nucleotides and derivatives, as well as some secondary metabolites such as 36 flavonoids, 28 phenolic acids, 13 alkaloids, and 6 tannins. The results indicate that loessial soil can improve the nutritional and medicinal value of D. opposita.

Screening of Tyrosinase, Xanthine Oxidase, and α-Glucosidase Inhibitors from Polygoni Cuspidati Rhizoma et Radix by Ultrafiltration and HPLC Analysis

Polygoni Cuspidati Rhizoma et Radix (PCR), the rhizome and root of Polygonum cuspidatum Sieb. et Zucc., has been used as an herbal medicine for a long time. In this study, the ultrafiltration combined with high performance liquid chromatography (UF-HPLC) method was developed to screen tyrosinase (TYR), α-glucosidase (α-GLU), and xanthine oxidase (XOD) inhibitors from PCR. Firstly, the inhibitory activity of 50% methanol PCR extract on TYR, α-GLU, XOD, and acetylcholinesterase (ACHE) was tested. The extract showed a good inhibition on the enzymes, except for ACHE. Therefore, UF-HPLC experiments were carried out to screen TYR, α-GLU, and XOD inhibitors from PCR extract. Seven potential bioactive components were discovered, including methylgallate (1), 1,6-di-O-galloyl-D-glucose (2), polydatin-4'-O-D-glucoside (3), resveratrol-4'-O-D-glucoside (4), polydatin (5), malonyl glucoside resveratrol (6), and resveratrol-5-O-D-glucoside (7). Most of them were found as enzyme inhibitors from PCR for the first time, except polydatin (5), which had been reported as an α-GLUI in PCR in the literature. Finally, molecular docking analysis was applied to validate the interactions of these seven potential active components with the enzymes. Compounds 1-7 were proven as TYR inhibitors, compounds 2, 4-7 were identified as XOD inhibitors, and compounds 4-6 were confirmed as α-GLU inhibitors. In short, the current study provides a good reference for the screening of enzyme inhibitors through UF-HPLC, and provides scientific data for future studies of PCR.