Potential and Therapeutic Roles of Diosmin in Human Diseases

Neuroprotective potential of hispidulin and diosmin: a review of molecular mechanisms

Flavonoids are an important class of natural products, particularly, belong to a class of plant secondary metabolites having a polyphenolic structure. They are widely found in fruits, vegetables, and certain beverages. Hispidulin and diosmin are naturally occurring flavonoids recognized for their potential health benefits, such as antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and neuroprotective properties. Hispidulin is present in several plants, including Arnica montana, Salvia officinalis (sage), and Eupatorium arnottianum. Diosmin is mainly extracted from citrus fruits like lemons and oranges and can also be synthesized from hesperidin, another flavonoid found in citrus fruits. Neurodegenerative diseases are characterized by complex signaling pathways that contribute to neuronal deterioration. The JAK/STAT pathway is involved in inflammatory responses, while the NF-κB/NLRP3 pathway is associated with metabolic stress and inflammation, both facilitating neurodegeneration. Conversely, the AMPK/pGSK3β pathway is crucial for neuroprotection, regulating cellular responses to oxidative stress and promoting neuronal survival. Additionally, the BACE/Aβ pathway exacerbates neuronal damage by triggering inflammatory and oxidative stress responses, highlighting critical targets for therapeutic strategies. Hispidulin and diosmin have emerged as promising agents in the modulation of mediators involved in neuroinflammation and neurodegenerative diseases. Oxidative stress and inflammatory pathways, including those driven by Aβ/BACE1 and JAK/STAT signaling, are central to neuronal damage and disease progression. Recent studies highlight that hispidulin and diosmin exhibit notable neuroprotective effects by targeting these mediators. Hispidulin has been shown to impact key inflammatory cytokines and adhesion molecules, while diosmin influences proinflammatory cytokine production and inflammasome activation. Both compounds offer potential therapeutic benefits by modulating crucial mediators linked to neuroinflammation and neurodegeneration. This review article is designed to explore the intricate mechanistic interplay underlying the neuroprotective effects of hispidulin and diosmin.

Identification and Evaluation of Colour Change in Rosemary and Biluochun Tea Infusions

BACKGROUND

The colour of tea beverages during processing and storage significantly influences their visual quality. However, natural pink tea products are rare. This study investigated the mechanism behind the pink colouration in the mixed infusion of Biluochun (a green tea) and rosemary.

METHODS

Infusions of Biluochun (B), rosemary (R), and their mixture (BR), brewed with boiling water for 10 min, were analysed using liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS). Additionally, the pH value and tea pigment content were measured.

RESULTS

A total of 134 differential metabolites (DEMs) were detected. Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) analysis showed that phenylalanine metabolism and tyrosine metabolism pathways were enriched with abundant DEMs. Some amino acids in BR showed degradation. The content of pelargonin, a compound in the anthocyanin biosynthetic pathway, was significantly elevated in BR compared to that in B and R. DEMs related to fatty acid metabolism were at low levels in BR. Other compounds, such as quercetin, caffeate, rosmarinic acid, and isoferulic acid, were also more abundant in BR. No significant differences in pH value and tea pigment content were found among the three infusions.

CONCLUSIONS

A model of pink colouration formation in BR was proposed based on the results of this study. Some substances in Biluochun and rosemary were released during the brewing process. Tyrosine was converted into p-coumaric acid, which further reacted to form pelargonin. Pelargonin, an orange-red (pH ≈ 5.0) anthocyanin, was the primary contributor to the pink colouration in BR. Additionally, p-coumaric acid formed co-pigments such as quercetin, caffeic acid, rosmarinic acid, and isovaleric acid. These co-pigments stabilised or enhanced the colour of pelargonin through co-pigmentation. The findings provide a theoretical basis for optimising tea processing techniques and improving quality control in beverage production.

Amelioration of Freund's adjuvant-induced polyarthritis by Diosmin-loaded nanoparticles in Wistar rats; a mechanistic study

The current study aims to synthesize diosmin-loaded nanoparticles (DNPs) to make available an alternative safe treatment for adjuvant-induced polyarthritis. DNPs were formulated using chitosan biopolymer and characterized. Acute toxicity study was also performed and acute anti-inflammatory potential was accessed using phologistic agents. For anti-arthritic potential, disease was inoculated by injecting 0.15-ml Freund's adjuvant at day 1 to all groups except normal control in left hind paw. Therapy using DNPs at 5-20 mg/kg and diosmin 20 mg/kg and methotrexate was started from day 8-28 orally. The DNPs of size 223 nm, potential 2.9 Mv, polydisparity index > 0.7 and spherical shape particles as revealed by scanning electron microscopy and amorphous nature were revealed by X-ray diffraction. DNPs dose dependently ameliorated arthritic scoring, pain, paw swelling and body weight in contrary to disease control. DNPs and free drug restored significantly altered blood parameters, oxidation status and neurotransmitters level in treated animals as evident by histologic examination of tissues. Treatment with DNPs and free drug profoundly downregulated the expression of cyclooxygenase-2, interleukin (IL)-6, TNF-α, NF-κβ and increased IL-4 and IL-10 in arthritic animals. DNP 20 mg/kg revealed noteworthy anti-arthritic, anti-inflammatory and anti-nociceptive potential in counter to diosmin and methotrexate treated animals.

Zein-sodium caseinate-diosmin nanoparticles as a promising anti-cancer agent with targeted efficacy against A2780 cell line

This research investigated the potential of zein-sodium caseinate-diosmin nanoparticles (ZCD-NPs) as an anti-cancer agent against the A2780 cell line. Dynamic light scattering (DLS) analysis showed that ZCD-NPs have an average size of 265.30 nm with a polydispersity index of 0.21, indicating good uniformity suitable for pharmaceutical applications. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) confirmed the successful incorporation of diosmin into the NPs and highlighted the interactions between the components. Field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM) images showed spherical NPs with smooth surfaces, suggesting stability and high production quality. Encapsulation efficiency was remarkably high, at 93.45%. Cytotoxicity assays showed a dose-dependent effect of ZCD-NPs, with A2780 cells showing significant sensitivity compared to normal HDF cells, indicating selective targeting of cancer cells. Flow cytometry analysis confirmed that ZCD-NPs induced apoptosis and necrosis in A2780 cells, as evidenced by increased expression of apoptotic genes such as p53 and caspases 8 and 9. In addition, ZCD-NPs exhibited potent antioxidant activity, effectively scavenging free radicals. These results suggest that ZCD-NPs have promising properties for targeted cancer therapy and antioxidant applications, which warrant further exploration in clinical settings.

Bioactive flavonoids metabolites in citrus species: their potential health benefits and medical potentials

Citrus flavonoids are naturally occurring phytochemicals widely present in the peels and pulps of citrus fruits. They exhibit a wide range of biological activities, including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, hypoglycemic, lipid-lowering, antimicrobial, and gut-protective effects. These metabolites show great potential in improving metabolic syndromes such as diabetes, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), and cardiovascular diseases. Additionally, citrus flavonoids have demonstrated significant effects in inhibiting pancreatic lipase activity, regulating lipid metabolism, and enhancing intestinal barrier function. Advances in extraction and purification techniques have further promoted their applications in the fields of food, medicine, and functional materials. This review systematically summarizes the types, bioactivities, and mechanisms of action of citrus flavonoids, providing scientific evidence for their research and development.

Modulating NLRP3 Inflammasomes in Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis: A Comprehensive Review on Flavonoid-Based Interventions

Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis (IPF) is a severe, rapidly advancing disease that drastically diminishes life expectancy. Without treatment, it can progress to lung cancer. The precise etiology of IPF remains unknown, but inflammation and damage to the alveolar epithelium are widely thought to be pivotal in its development. Research has indicated that activating the NLRP3 inflammasome is a crucial mechanism in IPF pathogenesis, as it triggers the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines such as IL-1β, IL-18, and TGF-β. These cytokines contribute to the myofibroblast differentiation and extracellular matrix (ECM) accumulation. Currently, treatment options for IPF are limited. Only two FDA-approved medications, pirfenidone and nintedanib, are available. While these drugs can decelerate disease progression, they come with a range of side effects and do not cure the disease. Additional treatment strategies primarily involve supportive care and therapy. Emerging research has highlighted that numerous flavonoids derived from traditional medicines can inhibit the critical regulators responsible for activating the NLRP3 inflammasome. These flavonoids show promise as potential therapeutic agents for managing IPF, offering a new avenue for treatment that targets the core inflammatory processes of this debilitating condition.

A review of six bioactive compounds from preclinical studies as potential breast cancer inhibitors

Breast cancer is one of the predominant causes of mortality in women worldwide. Although therapeutics such as surgery, chemotherapy, hormonal therapy, and radiotherapy have been used, they are associated with adverse effects or multidrug resistance. The use of natural compounds is a promising strategy, owing to their abundance and medicinal value. This review focuses on six natural compounds, namely cinnamaldehyde, diosmin, taxifolin, phloretin, arctigenin, and eugenol, and details their mechanisms of breast cancer inhibition based on in vitro and in vivo studies. These compounds generally promote apoptosis and cell cycle arrest, hinder metastasis and invasion, and decrease tumor growth. This review reinforces the use of natural compounds as therapeutics for breast cancer from their preclinical studies. These compounds might be promising for drug development due to their abundance, high reliability, and safety.

Diosmin alleviates NLRP3 inflammasome-dependent cellular pyroptosis after stroke through RSK2/CREB pathway

In the context of our previous analyses on the main active ingredients of Jieyudan, a classic formula targeting aphasia in stroke, we further delve into the function and mechanisms of its active ingredient, Diosmin (DM), which may exert neuroprotective effects, in ischemic stroke. Herein, bioinformatics analysis revealed targets of DM and their intersection with differentially expressed genes in ischemic stroke. Middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) rats and oxygen-glucose deprivation (OGD) cells were used to construct in vivo and in vitro models of ischemic stroke. The effects of DM on MCAO rats were assessed by Zea-Longa score, Morris water maze, TTC staining, Nissl staining, immunohistochemistry, and Western blot. At the cellular level, cell counting kit-8 assay and Western blot were carried out to verify the mechanism of DM in ischemic stroke. In vivo, DM decreased neurological deficit score, cerebral infarct volume and neuronal damage, and improved cognitive function in MCAO rats. In vitro, DM increased the viability of OGD-treated cells. In addition, DM down-regulated the expressions of NLR family pyrin domain containing 3 (NLRP3) and pyroptosis-associated proteins, while up-regulating ribosomal protein S6 kinase A3 (RSK2) level and activating cyclic-AMP response element-binding protein (CREB) signaling. Conversely, RSK2 inhibitor LJH685 reduced the viability and promoted pyroptosis-associated protein levels, which also partially reversed the effects of DM in vitro. Collectively, DM plays a therapeutic role in ischemic stroke by inhibiting NLRP3 inflammasome-mediated cellular pyroptosis via the RSK2/CREB pathway.

Diosmin induces mitochondrial-mediated apoptosis and anti-inflammatory effects in Hep-2 cells: an integrated in vitro and in silico analysis

The present study aims to explore the anticancer efficacy of Diosmin by inducing mitochondrial-mediated apoptosis in human epidermoid carcinoma cells (Hep-2). This is done by cell line assays and studying crucial inflammatory and apoptotic signaling molecules. The cytotoxicity property of Diosmin was evaluated by MTT (3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide) assay. Marker expression study was done by western blotting for studying apoptotic markers like Bax, Bcl-2, p53, Bak, and Bcl-xl, proinflammatory cytokine (TNF-α), interleukins (IL-1, IL-6, IL-8), and signal transduction (STAT-3). The docking study confirms the affinity of Diosmin with apoptotic and important markers. Through the MTT assay, a dose-dependent cytotoxic effect of Diosmin was unveiled, with an IC50 value of effective inhibition of cell proliferation. Diosmin treatment resulted in noteworthy downregulation of Bcl-xl, Bak, Bcl-2, IL-1, 6, 8, TNF-α, and STAT-3 while upregulating the p53 and Bax expression levels, highlighting its inhibitory role in inducing apoptosis. Docking studies further exposed robust binding affinities between Diosmin and target apoptotic proteins, suggesting its efficacy in disrupting cellular functions and inflammatory signaling pathways in Hep-2 cells. The cytotoxic effects on Hep-2 cells and suggested activation of Bax, p53, and inhibition of Bcl-xl, Bak, Bcl-2, IL-1, 6, 8, TNF-α, as well as STAT-3 lead to the activation of mitochondrial-mediated apoptosis in Diosmin-treated Hep-2 cells. Further, its anti-inflammatory properties locate Diosmin as a conclusive compound for further studies for effective oral and other related squamous carcinoma treatments.

Hepatoprotective effects of diosmin: a narrative review

Liver diseases represent a formidable global health threat. Hesperidin, a flavonoid found in citrus fruits, is the source of diosmin (DS). The in vivo and in vitro investigations of the pharmacological effects of DS reveal that it exhibits tremendous beneficial effects, such as fighting against inflammation, oxidative stress, and fibrosis. These effects have been noticed in various disease models, emphasizing the potential therapeutic value of DS in tackling diverse pathological conditions. Interestingly, DS has promising liver-defense capabilities against a range of hepatic illnesses, such as radiation-induced hepatic injury, liver ischemia/reperfusion injury, alcoholic hepatic disease, nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Furthermore, DS demonstrates potential hepatoprotective effects against environmental toxins, such as heavy metals. DS activates PPAR-γ and Nrf2, leading to antioxidant effects that reduce oxidative stress. Moreover, DS suppresses NF-κB, NLRP3, MAPK activities, and cytokine production (TNF-α and IL-1β), resulting in inflammation suppression. These anti-inflammatory effects are attributed to the activation of PPAR-γ and Nrf2, which are NF-κB inhibitors. This review aims to comprehensively discuss the hepatoprotective capacity of DS, elucidating the underlying mechanisms and identifying several research avenues that warrant further exploration to ascertain the prospective clinical advantages of DS intake as a viable strategy for the treatment of hepatic illnesses.

Evaluation of the efficacy of diosmin and chrysin against tau-fluvalinate exposure in rats

Tau-fluvalinate is a type 2 pyrethroid insecticide. Diosmin and chrysin are flavonoids with antioxidant and anti-apoptotic effects. Role of diosmin and chrysin against infavorable toxic effects caused by tau-fluvalinate and the underlying mechanisms of these effects were investigated. Six groups were formed and diosmin, chrysin, tau-fluvalinate, tau-fluvalinate + diosmin and tau-fluvalinate + chrysin were administered orally to rats at a dose of 20 mg/kg.bw except for the control group, once a day for 21 days, respectively. Tau-fluvalinate elevated MDA and NO levels while diminishing the activities of antioxidant enzymes (SOD, CAT, GSH-Px, GR, GST, G6PD) and GSH levels in the majority of the analyzed blood and tissues, statistically significant. Serum triglyceride, cholesterol, total protein and albumin levels as well as LDH and PChE activities decreased. Conversely, serum creatinine, AST, ALT and ALP levels/activities increased. Elevated protein levels of caspase 3, caspase 9, p53 and Bax and decreased protein levels of Bcl-2 were observed in the liver. There were negative changes in body/some organ weights. Diosmin and chrysin administration resulted in a marked recovery in tau-fluvalinate-induced toxic effects, but this improvement was not complete. These flavonoids may be considered as promising potential therapeutic options to alleviate the adverse effects associated with tau-fluvalinate intoxication.

[Treatment of acute hemorrhoids according to the results of a multicenter observational study]

BACKGROUND

The issue of improving hemorrhoid treatment outcomes in outpatient practice is one of the most pressing in the daily work of coloproctologists today. Advances in the treatment of hemorrhoidal disease, the most common pathological condition in general proctology, in recent decades have been associated not only with the adoption of minimally invasive surgical techniques but also with the enhancement of pharmacological therapy. A key component of systemic pharmacotherapy for chronic and acute hemorrhoids is the use of venotonic drugs, including flavonoids which are included in the clinical guidelines. Therefore, a comprehensive and reliable evaluation of the clinical efficacy of diosmin is an important area of research, especially in cases of acute hemorrhoids.

OBJECTIVE

The study aimed to assess the effectiveness of using Phlebodia 600 and evaluate the dynamics of patients' quality of life with acute hemorrhoids of grades I-II in outpatient practice without employing minimally invasive surgical methods.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

A Russian multicenter prospective observational study was conducted involving an adult population of patients with grade I-II acute hemorrhoids in the city of Rostov-on-Don and the Rostov region. Outpatients (both men and women) aged 18 to 64 with a confirmed diagnosis of grade I-II acute hemorrhoids (thrombosis of external or internal hemorrhoidal nodes, including those with bleeding) established through standardized clinical examination were included. Therapy with Phlebodia 600 (diosmin) commenced no later than three days after the onset of clinical symptoms, which included a dominant set of symptoms such as enlarged hemorrhoidal nodes, pain, bleeding, anal itching, burning, or discomfort. The total sample size analyzed was 220 patients, and the medication was administered for at least 36 days.

RESULTS

The use of Phlebodia 600 for grade I-II acute hemorrhoids allowed for the resolution of complaints and stabilization of all key clinical parameters within the timeframes set by the study design. Following the proposed treatment regimen, early resolution and reduction of complaints such as pain, discomfort, itching, and blood streaks during defecation were observed by the control visit after seven days of therapy, compared to baseline. In 73% of cases, a reduction in the size of hemorrhoidal nodes was noted within this period. The proposed treatment regimen can be considered rational since, after 30 days, not only was there consistent resolution of complaints in the majority of patients, but there was also a significant improvement in quality of life (SF-36). No cases of intolerance to Phlebodia 600 or adverse reactions associated with its use were identified, indicating a high safety profile.

CONCLUSIONS

A 35-40 day course of Phlebodia 600 administered continuously according to the manufacturer's recommended regimen effectively reduces the severity and frequency of major complaints in patients with grade I-II acute hemorrhoids. This is achieved through improved microcirculation, venotonic, anti-inflammatory, and anti-edema effects. Diosmin (Phlebodia 600) favourable safety profile has been demonstrated. in acute hemorrhoids.

Preparation of monoclonal antibody against rhoifolin and its application in enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay of rhoifolin and diosmin

Both rhoifolin and diosmin belong to flavonoids, which are widely present in citrus. Diosmin is not only used in the medical field in the world, but also used as a dietary supplement in the United States. Rhoifolin has a similar structure to diosmin and also exhibits antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. In this study, an anti-rhoifolin monoclonal antibody was prepared and an indirect competitive enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (icELISA) method was established. The half-maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) of icELISA was determined to be 4.83 ng/mL, and the detection range was 0.97-33.87 ng/mL. The results of UPLC-MS/MS and icELISA generally demonstrate consistency. Moreover, by exploiting the cross-reactivity of the antibody, diosmin in tablets can be detected by icELISA. The results demonstrate that the developed method has good accuracy, reproducibility, and broad application prospects.

Citrus flavonoids diosmin, myricetin and neohesperidin as inhibitors of Pseudomonas aeruginosa: Evidence from antibiofilm, gene expression and in vivo analysis

Citrus flavonoids are group of bioactive polyphenols. Here, we investigated the potential of diosmin, myricetin and neohesperidin as possible inhibitors of Pseudomonas aeruginosa. This bacterium is a major clinical challenge due to its propensity to form resistant biofilm. The aims of this study were to examine flavonoids antibacterial activity using the microdilution method, assays intended to determine several antibiofilm mechanisms (crystal violet, congo red binding, extracellular DNA (eDNA) test and confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM) live/dead cell imaging), followed by virulence genes RT-qPCR analysis. Furthermore, we aimed to examine in vivo toxicity of the compounds as well as their efficacy in P. aeruginosa zebrafish embryo infection model. Minimal inhibitory concentrations of tested flavonoids towards P. aeruginosa were in range 0.05 - 0.4 mg/mL. A high potential of the compounds to disturb both the formation of the bacterial biofilm and its eradication was recorded, including significant reduction in biofilm biomass, exopolysaccharide and eDNA production. Biofilm treatment with diosmin resulted in the lowest percentage of live microbial cells as observed in the CLSM live/dead cell imaging. The lasI, pvdS, and rhlC genes were found to be downregulated in the presence of diosmin and myricetin. Only diosmin stood out as non-embryotoxic. Consequently, in vivo analysis using a zebrafish model of P. aeruginosa infection showed an antivirulence effect of diosmin. Our findings suggest that diosmin could be potential candidate for the development of new agent that target P. aeruginosa infections by reducing its virulence mechanisms.

Flavone-C-glycosides from Cassia auriculata L. as possible inhibitors of phosphodiesterase-5 (PDE5): in vitro, molecular docking and molecular dynamics studies

Phosphodiesterase-5 (PDE5) is a homodimeric enzyme that specifically targets cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP), that mediates many downstream effects such as vasodilation, neurotransmission, and calcium homeostasis. Considering the functions of cGMP, inhibition of PDE5 has been established to have several therapeutic effects in disease conditions such as cancer, cardiovascular diseases and Alzheimer's disease. Consequently, many PDE5 inhibitors were developed but with severe adverse effects such as non-arteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy (NAION), priapism, etc. Hence, in our study for the identification of new PDE5 inhibitors from alternative sources, Cassia auriculata L. was identified as a potential PDE5 inhibitors with 56.23% inhibition at 100 μg/mL in vitro. In addition, the respective phytoconstituents were evaluated through molecular docking, interaction studies and MM/GBSA binding free energy calculations, identifying two potential flavone C-glycosides, lucenin-II (-15.977, dG bind = -38.8), stellarin-II (-15.099, dG bind = -34.59), and a flavan derivative (2S)-7,4-dihydroxyflavan(4β-8)-catechin, in comparison to sildenafil (-10.890, dG bind = -75.4) and having frequent contacts with Phe 786, Phe 820, Ser 663, Tyr 664, and other crucial residues at the catalytic site of PDE5. Molecular dynamics simulations performed for 100 ns showed structural stability and compactness of the candidates through RMSD, RMSF which showed less fluctuations. The ADMET analysis revealed favorable pharmacokinetics, and pharmacodynamic properties with no subsequent toxicity in normal cells. The biological target class prediction identified enzymes with similar properties and icariin, which is a well-established natural PDE5 inhibitor was identified as a structurally similar analogue. These findings could lead to the development of novel natural product based PDE5 inhibitors.

Tailored biosynthesis of diosmin through reconstitution of the flavonoid pathway in Nicotiana benthamiana

The flavonoid diosmin (diosmetin 7-O-rutinoside) is used as a therapeutic agent for disorders of the blood vessels such as hemorrhoids and varicose veins. Diosmin is commercially produced using semi-synthetic methods involving the oxidation of hesperidin, the most abundant flavonoid in citrus fruits. However, this method produces byproducts that are toxic to the environment, and new sustainable methods to produce diosmin are required. Here, we used a synthetic biology approach to produce diosmin without generating toxic byproducts through reconstitution of the diosmin biosynthetic pathway in Nicotiana benthamiana. We first established that N. benthamiana leaves co-infiltrated with all seven genes in the flavonoid biosynthesis pathway produced high levels of luteolin, a precursor of diosmetin. We then compared the activity of modification enzymes such as methyltransferases, glucosyltransferases, and rhamnosyltransferases in Escherichia coli and in planta and selected genes encoding enzymes with the highest activity for producing diosmetin, diosmetin 7-O-glucoside, and diosmin, respectively. Finally, we reconstructed the entire diosmin biosynthetic pathway using three constructs containing ten genes encoding enzymes in this pathway, from phenylalanine ammonia lyase to rhamnosyltransferase. N. benthamiana leaves transiently co-expressing all these genes yielded 37.7 µg diosmin per gram fresh weight. To our knowledge, this is the first report of diosmin production in a heterologous plant system without the supply of a precursor. Successful production of diosmin in N. benthamiana opens new avenues for producing other commercially important flavonoids using similar platforms.

Effective Determination of Diosmin Using Nitrogen Doped Carbon Dots as Probe Based on Internal Filtering Effect

The establishment of a convenient and efficient testing method is crucial and needed for the monitoring of diosmin. In this study, nitrogen doped carbon dots (N-CDs) with the particle size distribution of 2.5-5.7 nm and the average diameter of 4.1 nm were successfully synthesized using a simple strategy. N-CDs exhibited excellent and stable fluorescence performance with the quantum yield of 22.33%. Correspondingly, a fluorescence analytical method was developed for diosmin determination using N-CDs as probe. UV-vis absorbance spectroscopy and the evaluation of internal filtering parameters verified that the mechanism causing the quenching of N-CDs was an internal filtering effect (IFE). The concentration of diosmin can be directly evaluated based on the quenched fluorescence intensities. After optimizing experimental conditions, it was found that the fluorescence quenching efficiency ((F0-F)/F0) of N-CDs exhibited a good linear relationship with the concentration of diosmin (CDiosmin) in the range of 3.0-50 µg/mL. The limit of detection (LOD) was 0.86 µg/mL based on 3σ/slope (n = 13). This method was successfully applied to accurately determine the content of diosmin in diosmin tablets and human plasma samples with good reproducibility. It stands out for its simplicity, speed, and acceptable determination performance.

Diosmin ameliorates inflammation, apoptosis and activates PI3K/AKT pathway in Alzheimer's disease rats

Alzheimer's disease (AD), a prevalent cognitive disorder among the elderly, is frequently linked to the abnormal accumulation of myloid-β (Aβ), which is mainly as a result of neuronal death and inflammation. Diosmin, a flavonoid, is considered a potential drug for the treatment of AD. Our study aimed to uncover the molecular mechanism of diosmin in AD therapy. Here, rats were randomly divided into three groups: control, Aβ25-35, and Aβ25-35 + diosmin groups. AD model rats were induced by Aβ25-35 intraventricular injection, meanwhile 50 mg/kg diosmin was orally administered for 6-week intervention. Morris water maze test assessed learning and memory abilities. Hippocampal neuronal damage was determined by HE, Nissl, and TUNEL staining. These assays indicate that diosmin improves cognitive dysfunction and reduces hippocampal neuronal loss and apoptosis. Western blot showed that diosmin reduced Bax (1.21 ± 0.12) and cleaved caspase-3 (1.27 ± 0.12) expression, and increased Bcl-2 (0.70 ± 0.06), p-PI3K (0.71 ± 0.08), and p-AKT (0.96 ± 0.10) in the hippocampus. ELISA indicated diosmin reduces IL-1β, IL-6, and TNF-α levels, suggesting anti-inflammation effect. These results suggest that diosmin inhibits neuronal apoptosis and neuroinflammatory responses to improve cognitive dysfunction in AD rats, possibly related to upregulation of the PI3K/AKT pathway, providing a scientific basis for its use in AD treatment.

Diosmin and Hesperidin Have a Protective Effect in Diabetic Neuropathy via the FGF21 and Galectin-3 Pathway

Background and Objectives: This study aimed to investigate the protective effect of diosmin and hesperidin in diabetic neuropathy using a rat model, focusing on their impact on nerve regeneration through the fibroblast growth factor 21 (FGF21) and galectin-3 (gal3) pathway. Materials and Methods: Forty adult male Wistar rats were used in this study. Diabetes was induced using streptozotocin (STZ), and the rats were divided into control, diabetes and saline-treated, diabetes and diosmin + hesperidin (150 mg/kg) treated, and diabetes and diosmin + hesperidin (300 mg/kg) treated groups. Electromyography (EMG) and inclined plane testing were performed to assess nerve function and motor performance. Sciatic nerve sections were examined histopathologically. Plasma levels of FGF21, galectin-3, and malondialdehyde (MDA) were measured as markers of oxidative stress and inflammation. Results: Diabetic rats treated with saline displayed reduced nerve conduction parameters and impaired motor performance compared to controls. Treatment with diosmin and hesperidin significantly improved compound muscle action potential (CMAP) amplitude, distal latency, and motor performance in a dose-dependent manner. Histopathological examination revealed decreased perineural thickness in treated groups. Additionally, treatment with diosmin and hesperidin resulted in increased plasma FGF21 levels and reduced plasma levels of galectin-3 and MDA, indicating decreased oxidative stress and inflammation. Conclusions: Diosmin and hesperidin exhibited protective effects in diabetic neuropathy by promoting nerve regeneration, enhancing nerve conduction, and improving motor performance. These effects were associated with modulation of the FGF21 and galectin-3 pathway. These findings suggest that diosmin and hesperidin may hold potential as adjunctive therapies for diabetic neuropathy.

Escin's Action on Bradykinin Pathway: Advantageous Clinical Properties for an Unknown Mechanism?

Escin, extracted from horse chestnut (Aesculus hippocastanum) has anti-edema and anti-inflammatory effects. It is used to treat several clinical conditions, including venous insufficiency, pain, inflammation, and edema. Considering escin's pharmacodynamic, the inhibition of the bradykinin pathway represents a particular effect, decreasing the local edema and conferring an advantage in comparison to other compounds. In this narrative review, we described the effects of escin considering its effects on bradykinin pathway.

Dietary anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial medicinal plants and its compounds in bovine mastitis associated impact on human life

Bovine mastitis (BM) is the most common bacterial mediated inflammatory disease in the dairy cattle that causes huge economic loss to the dairy industry due to decreased milk quality and quantity. Milk is the essential food in the human diet, and rich in crucial nutrients that helps in lowering the risk of diseases like hypertension, cardiovascular diseases and type 2 diabetes. The main causative agents of the disease include various gram negative, and positive bacteria, along with other risk factors such as udder shape, age, genetic, and environmental factors also contributes much for the disease. Currently, antibiotics, immunotherapy, probiotics, dry cow, and lactation therapy are commonly recommended for BM. However, these treatments can only decrease the rise of new cases but can't eliminate the causative agents, and they also exhibit several limitations. Hence, there is an urgent need of a potential source that can generate a typical and ideal treatment to overcome the limitations and eliminate the pathogens. Among the various sources, medicinal plants and its derived products always play a significant role in drug discovery against several diseases. In addition, they are also known for its low toxicity and minimum resistance features. Therefore, plants and its compounds that possess anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial properties can serve better in bovine mastitis. In addition, the plants that are serving as a food source and possessing pharmacological properties can act even better in bovine mastitis. Hence, in this evidence-based study, we particularly review the dietary medicinal plants and derived products that are proven for anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial effects. Moreover, the role of each dietary plant and its compounds along with possible role in the management of bovine mastitis are delineated. In this way, this article serves as a standalone source for the researchers working in this area to help in the management of BM.

Quality assessment and Q-markers discovery in Citri Sarcodactylis Fructus by integrating serum pharmacochemistry and network pharmacology

INTRODUCTION

Citri Sarcodactylis Fructus (CSF), a common fruit and traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), has been hindered in its further development and research owing to the lack of comprehensive and specific quality evaluation standards.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to establish clear TCM quality standards related to the therapeutic mechanisms of CSF and to provide a basis for subsequent research and development.

METHODS

Ultra-high performance liquid chromatography coupled with hybrid quadrupole-orbitrap high-resolution mass spectrometry (UPLC-Q-orbitrap HRMS) technology was used to comprehensively identify CSF components and explore their absorbance levels in rat serum. Network pharmacology research methods were employed to investigate the potential mechanisms of action of the identified components in the treatment of major clinical diseases. Subsequently, a combination of HPLC chromatographic fingerprinting for qualitative analysis and multi-index content determination was used to evaluate the detectability of the identified quality markers (Q-markers).

RESULTS

Twenty-six prototype components were tentatively characterized in rat serum. Network pharmacology analysis showed six effective components, namely 7-hydroxycoumarin, isoscopoletin, diosmin, hesperidin, 5,7-dimethoxycoumarin, and bergapten, which played important roles in the treatment of chronic gastritis, functional dyspepsia, peptic ulcer, and depression and were preliminarily identified as Q-markers. The results of content determination in 15 batches of CSF indicated significant differences in the content of medicinal materials from different origins. However, compared with the preliminarily determined Q-markers, all six components could be measured and were determined as Q-markers of CSF.

CONCLUSION

The chemical Q-markers obtained in this study could be used for effective quality control of CSF.

Advances in chromone-based copper(ii) Schiff base complexes: synthesis, characterization, and versatile applications in pharmacology and biomimetic catalysis

Chromones are well known as fundamental structural elements found in numerous natural compounds and medicinal substances. The Schiff bases of chromones have a much wider range of pharmacological applications such as antitumor, antioxidant, anti-HIV, antifungal, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties. A lot of research has been carried out on chromone-based copper(ii) Schiff-base complexes owing to their role in the organometallic domain and promise as potential bioactive cores. This review article is centered on copper(ii) Schiff-base complexes derived from chromones, highlighting their diverse range of pharmacological applications documented in the past decade, as well as the future research opportunities they offer.

Drug Reaction with Eosinophilia and Systemic Symptoms Induced by Diosmin and Hesperidin: A Case Report

Drug reaction with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms (DRESS) is a severe cutaneous adverse reaction which exhibits a diverse range of presentations. We described a 48-year-old man diagnosed with acute generalized exanthematous pustulosis (AGEP)-like DRESS following the administration of diosmin and hesperidin. To our knowledge, diosmin and hesperidin-induced DRESS are exceptionally rare. This aims to raise awareness of potential severe cutaneous side effects in patients taking these agents.

A Comparative Analysis of Polysaccharides and Ethanolic Extracts from Two Egyptian Sweet Potato Cultivars, Abees and A 195: Chemical Characterization and Immunostimulant Activities

Sweet potato (Ipomoea batatas (L.) Lam.) belongs to family Convolvulaceae. The plant is distributed worldwide and consumed, especially for its edible tubers. Many studies have proved that the plant has variable biological activities such as antidiabetic, anti-cancer, antihypertensive, antimicrobial, and immunostimulant activities. The roots of sweet potatoes are rich in valuable phytochemical constituents that vary according to the flesh color. Our investigation focused on the chemical profiling of two Egyptian sweet potato cultivars, Abees and A 195, using UPLC-QTOF and the analysis of their polysaccharide fractions by GC-MS. Furthermore, we assessed the immunostimulant properties of these extracts in immunosuppressed mice. The study revealed that sweet potato roots contain significant concentrations of phenolic acids, including caffeoylquinic, caffeic, caffeoyl-feruloyl quinic, and p-coumaric acids, as well as certain flavonoids, such as diosmin, diosmetin, and jaceosidin, and coumarins, such as scopoletin and umbelliferone. Moreover, polysaccharides prepared from both studied cultivars were analyzed using GC-MS. Further biological analysis demonstrated that all the tested extracts possessed immunostimulant properties by elevating the level of WBCs, IL-2, TNF, and IFN-γ in the immunosuppressed mice relative to the control group with the highest values in polysaccharide fractions of A195 (the ethanolic extract showed a higher effect on TNF and IFN-γ, while its polysaccharide fraction exhibited a promising effect on IL-2 and WBCs). In conclusion, the roots of the Egyptian sweet potato cultivars Abees and A 195 demonstrated significant immunostimulant activities, which warrants further investigation through clinical studies.

Comprehensive and critical view on the anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory role of natural phenolic antioxidants

The immune response encompasses innate and adaptive immunity, each with distinct and specific activities. The innate immune system is constituted by phagocytic cells, macrophages, monocytes and neutrophils, the cascade system, and different classes of receptors such as toll-like receptors that are exploited by the innate immune cells. The adaptive immune system is antigen-specific, encompassing memory lymphocytes and the corresponding specific receptors. Inflammation is understood as an activation of different signaling pathways such as toll-like receptors or nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells, with an increase in nitric oxide, inflammatory cytokines and chemokines. Increased oxidative stress has been identified as main source of chronic inflammation. Phenolic antioxidants modulate the activities of lymphocytes and macrophages by impacting cytokines and nitric oxide release, exerting anti-inflammatory effect. The nuclear-factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells signaling pathway and the mitogen-activated protein kinase pathway are targeted, alongside an increase in nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor mediated antioxidant response, triggering the activity of antioxidant enzymes. The inhibitive potential on phospholipase A2, cyclooxygenase and lipoxygenase in the arachidonic acid pathway, and the subsequent reduction in prostaglandin and leukotriene generation, reveals the potential of phenolics as inflammation antagonists. The immunomodulative potential encompasses the capacity to interfere with proinflammatory cytokine synthesis and with the expression of the corresponding genes. A diet rich in antioxidants can result in prevention of inflammation-related pathologies. More investigations are necessary to establish the role of these antioxidants in therapy. The appropriate delivery system and the prooxidant effects exhibited at large doses, or in the presence of heavy metal cations should be regarded.

Factors Influencing Venous Remodeling in the Development of Varicose Veins of the Lower Limbs

One of the early symptoms of chronic venous disease (CVD) is varicose veins (VV) of the lower limbs. There are many etiological environmental factors influencing the development of chronic venous insufficiency (CVI), although genetic factors and family history of the disease play a key role. All these factors induce changes in the hemodynamic in the venous system of the lower limbs leading to blood stasis, hypoxia, inflammation, oxidative stress, proteolytic activity of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), changes in microcirculation and, consequently, the remodeling of the venous wall. The aim of this review is to present current knowledge on CVD, including the pathophysiology and mechanisms related to vein wall remodeling. Particular emphasis has been placed on describing the role of inflammation and oxidative stress and the involvement of extracellular hemoglobin as pathogenetic factors of VV. Additionally, active substances used in the treatment of VV were discussed.

Bioactive Compounds in Citrus Species with Potential for the Treatment of Chronic Venous Disease: A Review

Chronic venous disease (CVD) significantly impacts global health, presenting a complex challenge in medical management. Despite its prevalence and the burden it places on healthcare systems, CVD remains underdiagnosed and undertreated. This review aims to provide a comprehensive analysis of the bioactive compounds in the Citrus genus, exploring their therapeutic potential in CVD treatment and addressing the gap in current treatment modalities. A narrative review methodology was adopted, focusing on the pharmacological effects of Citrus-derived bioactive compounds, including flavonoids and terpenes. Additionally, the review introduced the DBsimilarity method for analyzing the chemical space and structural similarities among Citrus compounds. The review highlights the Citrus genus as a rich source of pharmacologically active compounds, notably flavonoids and terpenes, which exhibit significant anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and veno-protective properties. Some of these compounds have been integrated into existing therapies, underscoring their potential for CVD management. The DBsimilarity analysis further identified many clusters of compounds with more than 85% structural similarity. Citrus-derived bioactive compounds offer promising therapeutic potential for managing CVD, showcasing significant anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and veno-protective effects. The need for further comparative studies, as well as safety and efficacy investigations specific to CVD treatment, is evident. This review underlines the importance of advancing our understanding of these natural compounds and encouraging the development of novel treatments and formulations for effective CVD management. The DBsimilarity method's introduction provides a novel approach to exploring the chemical diversity within the Citrus genus, opening new pathways for pharmacological research.

The Different Therapeutic Effects of Traditional Chinese Medicine Shensong Yangxin Capsule and Salubrinal in High-intensity Exercise-induced Heart Failure in Rats with Acute Myocardial Infarction

BACKGROUND

Currently, endoplasmic reticulum stress is studied utilizing a dephosphorylation inhibitor (Sal). The traditional Chinese patent medicine and simple formulation Shensong Yangxin Capsule is a commonly used medication for the treatment of arrhythmia. However, the efficacy and underlying mechanism of the capsule in treating post-ischemic heart failure in myocardial tissue have not yet been investigated.

OBJECTIVE

The therapeutic effects and the underlying mechanism of the Shensong Yangxin Capsule (SSYX) and the dephosphorylation inhibitor Salubrinal (Sal) on heart failure (HF) induced by high-intensity exercise in rats with acute myocardial infarction (AMI) were investigated.

METHODS

Male infants of 8 weeks Spragge-Dawley (SD) rats were randomly assigned to one of four groups: sham surgery group, AMI+placebo group, AMI+Shensong Yangxin Capsule group (AMI+SSYX), and AMI+Sal administration group. Rats' myocardial infarction was induced by left coronary artery ligation. Rats were subjected to a 3-week high-intensity exercise program to simulate heart failure after 7 days of postoperative rest. After the fourth postoperative week, echocardiography was applied to determine the left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF), left ventricular fractional shortening (LVFS), and left ventricular systolic volume (LVESV) in each group. HE and TUNEL labeling were employed to examine the morphology of cardiac cells and measure the percentage of apoptosis in each group; Western blotting was applied to detect the cardiomyocyte apoptosis-related proteins p-JNK, p-P38, and NOX2, while ELISA was used to detect glutathione(GSH), malondialdehyde (MDA), and superoxide dismutase (SOD) in serum.

RESULTS

Following a 4-week drug intervention:(1)LVFS and LVEF in the AMI+placebo group were statistically significantly reduced, while LVESV were significantly higher, compared to those in the sham surgery group (P<0.05); The AMI+SSYX group performed statistically significantly better than the AMI+placebo group(P<0.05). (2) The myocardial cells in the AMI+placebo group exhibited significant swelling and inflammatory cell infiltration; the myocardial cells in the AMI+SSYX group and AMI+Sal group displayed mild swelling and minimal inflammatory cell infiltration; the AMI+SSYX group's myocardial cell morphology was superior to that of the AMI+Sal group; (3) The apoptosis rate of the AMI+placebo group was around 95%, greater than that of the sham surgery group (2.55%). The apoptosis rate of the AMI+SSYX group is approximately 21%, while the apoptosis rate of the AMI+Sal group is about 43%. (4) In the AMI+placebo group, p-JNK, p-P38, and NOX2 protein expression dramatically increased compared to the sham surgery group. The expression of p-P38, NOX2, and p-JNK/t-JNK was considerably reduced in the AMI+Shensong group and AMI+Sal group, compared to the AMI+placebo group. (P<0.01)The AMI+SSYX group's result is superior to that of the AMI+Sal group. (5) Compared to the sham surgery group, the serum levels of SOD and GSH were significantly lower, and MDA was significantly higher in the AMI+placebo group. Compared to the AMI+placebo group, the serum levels of SOD and GSH were significantly higher, and MDA was significantly lower in the AMI+SSYX group and the AMI+Sal group. (P<0.05) Conclusion: In rats with acute myocardial infarction in high-intensity exercise-induced heart failure, Shensong Yangxin Capsule dramatically reduces myocardial cell death and cardiac dysfunction. SSYX has a shorter course of treatment and a better therapeutic effect than Sal.

Comparison of the anti-inflammatory and antilipidemic activity of diosmin and saroglitazar in a model of nonalcoholic fatty liver induced by a high-fat diet in Wistar rats

Objectives

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is the most common liver-related metabolic disorder in the world, with a global prevalence of 25%. Compounds with anti-inflammatory, lipid-lowering, and insulin-sensitizing properties can be used for the prevention or treatment of NAFLD. Therefore, this study was conducted to investigate the effect of saroglitazar (a dual PPARα/γ agonist) and diosmin (a flavonoid) on non-alcoholic fatty liver induced by a high-fat diet (HFD) in Wistar rats.

Materials and Methods

Forty male Wistar rats (6-8 weeks old) were fed an HFD to induce NAFLD. After 7 weeks, rats were divided into four groups: group1 was fed HFD, and the other groups received HFD+saroglitazar, HFD+diosmin, and HFD+ saroglitazar+diosmin. We examined body and liver weight, histopathology, serum levels of liver enzymes (ALT and AST), and lipid profiles (LDL-C and HDL-C) using the standard protocols. qRT-PCR was also used to examine the expression of PPARα, PPARγ, SREBP1c, FAS, ACC, CPT1α, and pro-inflammatory genes (IL6, TNFα, and TGFβ).

Results

Rats fed the HFD showed characteristics of NAFLD (pathologically and biochemically). Administration of saroglitazar and diosmin alone caused a significant decrease in the levels of PPARγ, SREBP1c, FAS, ACC, ALT, AST, LDL-C, and pro-inflammatory genes and a significant increase in PPARα, CPT1a, and HDL-C in comparison with the HF group (P<0.05). Their combined effect was more evident.

Conclusion

Our results showed that diosmin, like saroglitazar, significantly ameliorated inflammatory and lipid profiles in HFD-induced NAFLD, suggesting that diosmin, as a natural compound, could be a suitable alternative to saroglitazar.

Stasis Dermatitis: Pathophysiology, Current Treatment Paradigms, and the Use of the Flavonoid Diosmin

Objective

We sought to examine the role of flavonoids, particularly diosmin, as a therapeutic agent for stasis dermatitis (SD) through discussion of pathophysiology, current treatment paradigms, potential mechanisms of action, and a systematic review of evidence on clinical efficacy.

Methods

In addition to articles on pathophysiology and standard treatment, a search of PubMed was conducted using the following query: ("Diosmin" OR "MPFF" OR "Micronized Purified Flavonoid Fraction" OR "Flavonoid") AND ("Stasis Dermatitis" OR "Venous Ulcer" OR "Lipodermatosclerosis"). Emphasis was placed on studies that were randomized controlled trials examining an oral flavonoid against a placebo or standard of care.

Results

Diosmin is effective at improving stasis changes, increasing ulcer healing frequency, decreasing the time to ulcer healing, and reducing tissue edema. They also cause significant improvement in patient quality of life and reduction of venous symptoms. Diosmin has been shown to have a favorable safety profile with very few mild adverse events which did not differ significantly from placebo. Flavonoids also appear to be effective for other dermatologic conditions, including rosacea and senile purpura.

Conclusion

There is a growing body of evidence indicating that diosmin has therapeutic efficacy in managing stasis dermatitis. Data from studies in diseases with pathogenic similarities suggests the potential for even broader dermatologic applications.

Potential Chemopreventive Effects of Dietary Combination of Phytochemicals against Cancer Development

Cancer remains a major cause of cancer-related death worldwide. Over 70% of epithelial malignancies are sporadic and are related to lifestyle. Epidemiological studies suggest an inverse correlation between cancer incidence and fruit and vegetable intake. Numerous preclinical studies using in vitro (cell lines) and in vivo animal models of oncogenesis have reported the chemopreventive effects of dietary phytochemical agents through alterations in different biomarkers and signaling pathways. However, there is contrasting evidence from preclinical studies and clinical trials. To date, the most studied compounds include curcumin, resveratrol, isoflavones, green tea extract (epigallocatechin gallate), black raspberry powder (anthocyanins and ellagitannins), bilberry extract (anthocyanins), ginger extract (gingerol derivatives), and pomegranate extract (ellagitannins and ellagic acid). Overall, the clinical evidence of the preventive effects of dietary phytochemicals against cancer development is still weak, and the amount of these phytochemicals needed to exert chemopreventive effects largely exceeds the common dietary doses. Therefore, we propose a combination treatment of natural compounds that are used clinically for another purpose in order to obtain excess inhibitory efficacy via low-dose administration and discuss the possible reasons behind the gap between preclinical research and clinical trials.

Toxicity Derived from Interaction between Natural Compounds and Cancer Therapeutic Drugs Metabolized by CYP3A4: Lessons Learned from Two Clinical Case Reports

The use of natural compounds and, in general, the use of Complementary and Alternative Medicine (CAM), is growing steadily worldwide, both due to commercial pressure and the increasing use of self-medication and the desire to manage one's own personal health and well-being. Patients facing a cancer diagnosis are also strongly pressured to use these compounds, which are often added to standard therapeutic regimens, that should instead be based solely on diagnostic and therapeutic care pathways (DTCP) or evidence-based medicine (EBM). This study presents two clinical cases of cancer patients who presented to the pharmaceutical consultation service (PCD-Pharmacy Clinical Desk) established at the CRO Institute in Aviano, Italy. Both patients were using natural products along with prescribed chemotherapy. In the first case, a 55-year-old woman diagnosed with bilateral breast cancer with bone metastases, who was using natural compounds based on diosmin, escin (or aescin) and resveratrol in combination with ribociclib anticancer therapy, a severe ADR (neutropenia) was identified as a consequence of the drug-natural product interaction. In the second case, following a detailed medication review by the PCD, we avoided taking a therapeutic treatment (with natural compounds) that in itself could potentially render chemotherapy ineffective in a 57-year-old woman with multiple infiltrating ductal carcinoma of the left breast; the patient was planning to take a natural product containing St. John's Wort tincture and lemon balm tincture, in combination with paclitaxel and trastuzumab. In addition, we describe the corrective actions taken, thus outlining the main objectives of the activity of the PCD's pharmacy counseling service: first, to identify, report, and manage adverse drug reactions (ADRs), and second, to identify therapeutic combinations that present potential risks of toxicity or ineffectiveness of the drug therapy itself.

Repurposing FDA approved drug molecules against A B C classes of β-lactamases: a computational biology and molecular dynamics simulations study

β-lactamase are the main resistance factor for β-lactam antibiotics in Gram-negative bacteria. Since β-lactam antibiotics are being utilised as an antimicrobial agents extensively for the past 70 years, a large number of β-lactam-inactivating β-lactamases have been produced by bacteria. Here, we employed a structure-based drug discovery approach to identify and assess the efficacy of a potential medication that might block the β-lactamases which hydrolyse antibiotics. The FDA-approved medications were subjected to virtual screening, molecular docking, molecular dynamics simulations, density functional theory, and covalent docking against the β-lactamases. We identified diosmin, hidrosmin, monoxuritin and solasulfone as β-lactamase inhibitors which are authorised for therapeutic use in humans. These medications interact in a remarkable variety of non-covalent ways with the conserved residues in the substrate-binding pocket of the β-lactamases. Diosmin has been identified as an inhibitor that binds covalently to the NDM-1 a class B metallo-betalactamase. After experimental validation and clinical demonstration, this study offers adequate evidence for the therapeutic use of these drugs for controlling multidrug resistance.Communicated by Ramaswamy H. Sarma.

Flavonoids in the Spotlight: Bridging the Gap between Physicochemical Properties and Formulation Strategies

Flavonoids are hydroxylated polyphenols that are widely distributed in plants with diverse health benefits. Despite their popularity, the bioavailability of flavonoids is often overlooked, impacting their efficacy and the comparison of products. The study discusses the bioavailability-related physicochemical properties of flavonoids, with a focus on the poorly soluble compounds commonly found in dietary supplements and herbal products. This review sums up the values of pKa, log P, solubility, permeability, and melting temperature of flavonoids. Experimental and calculated data were compiled for various flavonoid subclasses, revealing variations in their physicochemical properties. The investigation highlights the challenges posed by poorly soluble flavonoids and underscores the need for enabling formulation approaches to enhance their bioavailability and therapeutic potential. Compared to aglycones, flavonoid glycosides (with sugar moieties) tend to be more hydrophilic. Most of the reviewed aglycones and glycosides exhibit relatively low log P and high melting points, making them "brick dust" candidates. To improve solubility and absorption, strategies like size reduction, the potential use of solid dispersions and carriers, as well as lipid-based formulations have been discussed.

Anti-proliferative, anti-migration, and anti-invasion activity of novel hesperidin glycosides in non-small cell lung cancer A549 cells

Background and purpose

Several attempts have been made to synthesize and investigate modified flavonoids to improve their potential anticancer efficacy. This study aimed to determine the in vitro anti-viability, anti-migration, and anti-invasive effects of two novel hesperidin glycosides, hesperidin glucoside (HG1) and hesperidin maltoside (HG2), compared to original hesperidin and diosmin.

Experimental approach

Inhibitory effects on normal (MRC5) and cancer (A549) cell viability of hesperidin glycosides were investigated by the trypan blue and MTS assays. A scratch assay determined the suppressive effects on cancer cell migration, and inhibition of cancer cell invasion was investigated through Matrigel™. The selectivity index (SI), a marker of cell toxicity, was also determined for A549 relative to MRC5 cells.

Findings/Results

The cell viability trypan blue and MTS assays showed similar results of the inhibition of A549 cancer cells; HG1 and HG2 had lower IC50 than original hesperidin and diosmin. The SI of HG1 and HG2 was > 2 after 72-h culture. Investigation of cell migration showed that HG1 and HG2 inhibited the ability of gap closure in a time- and dose-dependent manner. The infiltration of the Matrigel™-coated filter by A549 cells was suppressed in the presence of HG1 and HG2. This result implied that HG1 and HG2 could inhibit cancer cell invasion.

Conclusion and implication

Our results suggest the inhibition of cancer cell migration and invasion in a time- and concentration-related manner with a favorable toxic profile. Moreover, HG1 and HG2 appeared potentially better agents than the original hesperidin for future anticancer development.

Comparative Analysis of Chemical Composition of Zanthoxylum myriacanthum Branches and Leaves by GC-MS and UPLC-Q-Orbitrap HRMS, and Evaluation of Their Antioxidant Activities

Zanthoxylum myriacanthum Wall. ex Hook. f., a plant belonging to the Rutaceae family and the Zanthoxylum genus, is extensively utilized for its medicinal properties and as a culinary seasoning in China and Southeast Asian countries. However, the chemical composition and biological activities of Z. myriacanthum branches and leaves remain insufficiently explored. In this study, the volatile and non-volatile components of Z. myriacanthum branches and leaves were analyzed using GC-MS and UPLC-Q-Orbitrap HRMS techniques. A total of 78 volatile compounds and 66 non-volatile compounds were identified. The volatile compounds were predominantly terpenoids and aliphatic compounds, while the non-volatile compounds were primarily flavonoids and alkaloids. The branches contained 52 volatile compounds and 33 non-volatile compounds, whereas the leaves contained 48 volatile compounds and 40 non-volatile compounds. The antioxidant activities of the methanol extracts from Z. myriacanthum branches and leaves were evaluated using ABTS and DPPH free-radical-scavenging assays, both of which demonstrated certain antioxidant activity. The methanol extract of leaves demonstrated significantly higher antioxidant activity compared to that of the branches, possibly due to the higher presence of flavonoids and phenols in the leaves, with IC50 values of 7.12 ± 0.257 μg/mL and 1.22 × 102 ± 5.01 μg/mL for ABTS and DPPH, respectively. These findings enhance our understanding of the chemical composition and antioxidant potential of Z. myriacanthum. The plant holds promise as a natural source of antioxidants for applications in pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and functional foods. Further research can explore its broader biological activities and potential applications.

Intramammary Infusion of Micronised Purified Flavonoid Fraction (MPFF) in Mastitis-Diagnosed Dairy Cows Naturally Infected by Staphylococcus spp. in the Late Lactation

Infectious mastitis is the most prevalent health problem in dairy cattle that can result in permanent economic losses on dairy farms. The micronised purified flavonoid fraction (MPFF) is a biocompatible active polyphenolic compound derived from flavonoid glycosides which exhibits several antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and phlebotonic properties. The goal was to assess the effects of an alternative therapy for mastitis based on MPFF intramammary infusions in late lactation in dairy cows naturally infected by Staphylococcus spp. The California Mastitis Test (CMT scores) was performed to detect mastitis-positive quarters in twelve dairy farms. All cows were screened for immune response by measuring somatic cell counts (SCCs; cells/mL) in milk samples from each quarter. In addition, bacteriological identification, pathogenic bacterial isolates, and total bacterial counts (TBCs; CFU/mL) were assessed before (day 0, last milking day) and after (day 3 post-calving) MPFF application. Antimicrobial sensitivity patterns of the pathogenic isolated bacteria were evaluated. Finally, cure rates (%) were determined for each MPFF treatment. Around 15 mastitis-related genera were isolated. Staphylococcus aureus (25.2%) and coagulase-negative Staphylococci (CNS; 22.4%) were the most prevalent pathogens. No statistical differences were observed in SCCs and TBCs after low, medium, and high MPFF dose administration in S. aureus-positive mastitis cases (p > 0.05). However, differences were observed in SCCs and TBCs after medium and high MPFF dose administration in CNS-positive quarters (p < 0.05). The pathogenic bacteria isolate reduction after MPFF applications showed a dose-response fashion (p < 0.01) while isolates obtained from controls and low MPFF-treated quarters remained similar, irrespective of the pathogen (p > 0.05). Sensitivity patterns were variable, although S. aureus remained resistant, irrespective of the MPFF dose. However, CNS showed a dose-response sensitivity pattern. Finally, the cure rate (%) on day 3 post-partum improved significantly using medium and higher MPFF doses in CNS-positive quarters (p < 0.05). In conclusion, MPFF treatment was found to be more effective for CNS-positive cases in the late lactation due to noticeable dose-specific responses regarding somatic cells, bacterial counts, sensitivity patterns, and cure rates in dairy cattle.

Diosmin nanocrystal gel alleviates imiquimod-induced psoriasis in rats via modulating TLR7,8/NF-κB/micro RNA-31, AKT/mTOR/P70S6K milieu, and Tregs/Th17 balance

Diosmin is a flavonoid with promising anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. However, it has difficult physicochemical characteristics since its solubility demands a pH level of 12, which has an impact on the drug's bioavailability. The aim of this work is the development and characterization of diosmin nanocrystals using anti-solvent precipitation technique to be used for topical treatment of psoriasis. Results revealed that diosmin nanocrystals stabilized with hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (HPMC E15) in ratio (diosmin:polymer; 1:1) reached the desired particle size (276.9 ± 16.49 nm); provided promising colloidal properties and possessed high drug release profile. Additionally, in-vivo assessment was carried out to evaluate and compare the activities of diosmin nanocrystal gel using three different doses and diosmin powder gel in alleviating imiquimod-induced psoriasis in rats and investigating their possible anti-inflammatory mechanisms. Herein, 125 mg of 5% imiquimod cream (IMQ) was applied topically for 5 consecutive days on the shaved backs of rats to induce psoriasis. Diosmin nanocrystal gel especially in the highest dose used offered the best anti-inflammatory effect. This was confirmed by causing the most statistically significant reduction in the psoriasis area severity index (PASI) score and the serum inflammatory cytokines levels. Furthermore, it was capable of maintaining the balance between T helper (Th17) and T regulatory (Treg) cells. Moreover, it tackled TLR7/8/NF-κB, miRNA-31, AKT/mTOR/P70S6K and elevated the TNFAIP3/A20 (a negative regulator of NF-κB) expression in psoriatic skin tissues. This highlights the role of diosmin nanocrystal gel in tackling imiquimod-induced psoriasis in rats, and thus it could be a novel promising therapy for psoriasis.

Investigation of the efficacy of diosmin against organ damage caused by bendiocarb in male Wistar albino rats

Bendiocarb is a carbamate insecticide, which is used more in indoor areas, especially against scorpions, spiders, flies, mosquitoes and cockroaches. Diosmin is an antioxidant flavonoid found mostly in citrus fruits. In this study, the efficacy of diosmin against the adverse effects of bendiocarb was investigated in rats. For this purpose, 60, 2-3 month-old male Wistar albino rats, weighing 150-200 g, were used. The animals were assigned to six groups, one of which was maintained for control purposes and five of which were trial groups. The control rats received only corn oil, which was used as a vehicle for diosmin administration in the trial groups. Groups 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6 were administered with 10 mg/kg.bw bendiocarb, 10 mg/kg.bw diosmin, 20 mg/kg.bw diosmin, 2 mg/kg.bw bendiocarb plus 10 mg/kg.bw diosmin, and 2 mg/kg.bw bendiocarb plus 20 mg/kg.bw diosmin, respectively, using an oral catheter, for 28 days. At the end of the study period, blood and organ (liver, kidneys, brain, testes, heart and lungs) samples were collected. Body weight and organ weights were determined. Compared to the control group, in the group given bendiocarb alone, firstly, body weight and liver, lung and testicular weights decreased. Secondly, tissue/plasma malondialdehyde (MDA) and nitric oxide (NO) levels increased, and glutathione (GSH) levels and superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) (except for lung tissue), glutathione reductase (GR), and glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) activities decreased in all tissues and erythrocytes. Thirdly, catalase (CAT) activity decreased in erythrocytes and the kidney, brain, heart and lung tissues and increased in the liver and testes. Fourthly, while GST activity decreased in the kidneys, testes, lung and erythrocytes, an increase was observed in the liver and heart tissues. Fifthly, while serum triglyceride levels and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), alkaline phosphatase (ALP) and pseudo-cholinesterase (PchE) activities decreased, aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and alanine aminotransferase (ALT) activities and blood urea nitrogen (BUN), creatinine and uric acid levels increased. Lastly, liver caspase 3, caspase 9 and p53 expression levels significantly increased. When compared to the control group, the groups treated with diosmin alone showed no significant difference for the parameters investigated. On the other hand, it was observed that the values of the groups treated with a combination of bendiocarb and diosmin were closer to the values of the control group. In conclusion, while exposure to bendiocarb at a dose of 2 mg/kg.bw for 28 days caused oxidative stress/organ damage, diosmin administration at doses of 10 and 20 mg/kg.bw reduced this damage. This demonstrated that diosmin has pharmaceutical benefits, when used for supportive treatment as well as radical treatment, against the potential adverse effects of bendiocarb.

hsa-mir-(4328, 4422, 548z and -628-5p) in diabetic retinopathy: diagnosis, prediction and linking a new therapeutic target

AIMS

Growing evidence suggests that microRNAs (miRNAs) are crucial in controlling how diabetic retinopathy (DR) develops. We intend to mine miRNAs with diagnostic and predictive value for DR and to investigate new drug therapeutic targets.

METHODS

After performing a differential analysis on the miRNA and mRNA datasets for DR and neovascularization (NEO), miRNA-mRNA networks were created. Combine the results of enrichment analysis, Protein-Protein Interaction Networks (PPI), and Cytoscape to identify key miRNAs. DrugBank was used to find drugs that interacted with transcription factors (TF) predicted by TransmiR. Finally, whole blood and clinical data were collected from 58 patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), and RT-qPCR, logistic analysis, and ROC were used to verify the value of key miRNAs.

RESULTS

Differential analysis indicated the presence of genes and miRNAs that co-regulate DR and NEO. Enrichment analysis showed that key genes are inextricably linked to neovascularization. Combining the results of PPI and Cytoscape identified four key miRNAs, namely hsa-mir-(4328, 4422, 548z and -628-5p). RT-qPCR, logistic, and ROC results showed that decreased expression levels of hsa-mir-(4328, 4422, 548z and -628-5p) signal the risk of evolution to DR in T2DM patients. Finally, we constructed a TF-miRNA network to find the 15 TFs and the 35 drugs that interact with these TFs.

CONCLUSION

hsa-mir-(4328, 4422, 548z and -628-5p) in whole blood are protective factors for DR as novel biomarkers for diagnosis and prediction. In addition, our research provides new drug directions for the treatment of DR, such as Diosmin, Atorvastatin, and so on.

Diosmin exerts hepatoprotective and antihyperglycemic effects against sodium arsenite-induced toxicity through the modulation of oxidative stress and inflammation in mice

BACKGROUND

Chronic exposure to high concentrations of inorganic arsenic (NaAsO₂) in drinking water is related to an increase in the risk of liver toxicity and diabetes. Diosmin has various pharmacological properties, including antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. This study was designed to investigate the protective effects of diosmin on diabetes and hepatotoxicity caused by NaAsO₂.

METHODS

Sixty male 8-week-old NMRI mice, weighing 25 ± 2 g, were randomly selected and put into six groups. The control (Group 1) was treated orally with distilled water, group 2 was treated with diosmin (100 mg/kg, p.o), group 3 received NaAsO₂ (10 mg/kg, p.o), and groups 4, 5, 6 received diosmin (25, 50, 100 mg/kg, p.o), respectively and NaAsO₂ (10 mg/kg, p.o). After 29 days, fasting blood sugar (FBS) measurement and glucose tolerance test were done. The mice were sacrificed on day 31, and blood and tissue (liver and pancreas) samples were taken. Then, serum and tissue samples were studied for biochemical and histological evaluations.

RESULTS

The results demonstrated that diosmin ameliorated glucose intolerance and decreased FBS compared to the NaAsO₂ group. Diosmin (50 and 100 mg/kg) improved the serum factors of liver function (alanine aminotransferase, aspartate transaminase, and alkaline phosphatase) in the groups receiving NaAsO₂. Moreover, increased levels of nitric oxide, tumor necrosis factor-alpha, and thiobarbituric acid reactive substances in liver tissue induced by NaAsO₂ were diminished by diosmin treatment. Administration of diosmin increased total thiol and enzymatic activities of catalase, superoxide dismutase, and glutathione peroxidase in liver tissue. Furthermore, treatment with diosmin reduced the increase in protein amount of Sirtuin 3 and nuclear factor kappa B in the groups receiving NaAsO₂. Also, the liver and pancreas histological lesions induced by NaAsO₂ were attenuated by diosmin treatment.

CONCLUSION

Diosmin has a preventive effect against hepatotoxicity and diabetes induced by NaAsO₂ in mice through its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.

Beneficial properties of Drimia numidica leaf methanolic extract against the cytogenotoxic effects of mitomycin C on human lymphocytes

This study investigated the phytochemical profile of Drimia numidica leaf methanolic extract, as well as its cyto-genotoxic and cyto/genoprotective potential against mitomycin C (MMC) mediated effects on healthy human lymphocytes. Photosynthetic pigments, trace elements, and secondary metabolites were estimated and/or identified in methanolic extract of mature leaves, and the latter was further used for assessing its in vitro biological effects on MMC-free and/or MMC-treated human lymphocytes (at low, non-toxic concentrations of 0.001 and 0.01% v/v). The results showed that D. numidica leaf methanolic extract, being rich in carotenoids, phenolics, flavonoids, organic acids and bufadienolides, could be protective against MMC mediated cyto/genotoxic potential in healthy human lymphocytes. Biomolecules possessing antioxidant and antitumor potential, such as beta-carotene and lutein among others, chlorogenic acid, caffeic acid and their derivatives, minerals such as Si, as well as apigenin- and luteolin-derived glycosides, either individual or in a mixture, could be beneficial rather than harmful, at least at the extract concentrations tested. Although further in vitro and in vivo studies are still needed for elucidating the beneficial (individual and/or additive/synergistic) role of those compounds, the results of the present study are quite promising, thus encouraging new challenges for the appropriate utilization of D. numidica leaf extract.

Diosmin and Bromelain Stimulate Glutathione and Total Thiols Production in Red Blood Cells

Diosmin and bromelain are bioactive compounds of plant origin with proven beneficial effects on the human cardiovascular system. We found that diosmin and bromelain slightly reduced total carbonyls levels and had no effect on TBARS levels, as well as slightly increased the total non-enzymatic antioxidant capacity in the RBCs at concentrations of 30 and 60 µg/mL. Diosmin and bromelain induced a significant increase in total thiols and glutathione in the RBCs. Examining the rheological properties of RBCs, we found that both compounds slightly reduce the internal viscosity of the RBCs. Using the MSL (maleimide spin label), we revealed that higher concentrations of bromelain led to a significant decrease in the mobility of this spin label attached to cytosolic thiols in the RBCs, as well as attached to hemoglobin at a higher concentration of diosmin, and for both concentrations of bromelain. Both compounds tended to decrease the cell membrane fluidity in the subsurface area, but not in the deeper regions. An increase in the glutathione concentration and the total level of thiol compounds promotes the protection of the RBCs against oxidative stress, suggesting that both compounds have a stabilizing effect on the cell membrane and improve the rheological properties of the RBCs.

Hepatoprotective potential of diosmin against hepatotoxic effect of isoniazid and rifampin in wistar rats

OBJECTIVE

The treatment of tuberculosis with isoniazid and rifampin is associated with hepatocellular damage. Therefore, the study was designed to evaluate the hepatoprotective potential of diosmin against hepatotoxic effect of isoniazid and rifampin in Wistar rats.

METHODS

Hepatotoxicity was induced by administering isoniazid and rifampin (100 mg/kg), whereas diosmin was given as treatment control. Markers of liver function (ALT, AST, ALP and bilirubin), inflammatory cytokines (TNFα, IL-6 and IL-1β), apoptosis (caspase-3), oxidative stress parameters (LPO, GSH, CAT and SOD) and histological changes in liver were assessed in normal, hepatotoxic control and treatment groups.

RESULTS

The administration of isoniazid and rifampin significantly increased markers of liver dysfunction (ALT, AST, ALP and bilirubin), cytokines (TNFα, IL-6 and IL-1β) and apoptosis (caspase-3). However, daily dosing of diosmin significantly reduced these markers of liver dysfunction, inflammatory cytokines and apoptosis to near normal levels. Additionally, markers of hepatocellular oxidative stress parameters were significantly altered as evident from increased LPO level and decreased endogenous antioxidants such as GSH, SOD and CAT in isoniazid-and rifampin-treated hepatotoxic group. It was observed that diosmin treatment reduced high levels of LPO and demonstrated significant improvement in antioxidant levels. Histological studies of liver also supported our biochemical findings, which are also manifested as diosmin treatment exhibited protection against hepatocellular degeneration and inflammation.

CONCLUSION

Results of the present study demonstrate hepatoprotective potential of diosmin against isoniazid-and rifampin-treated hepatotoxicity. Thus, we conclude that diosmin may be used along with anti-tubercular drugs (isoniazid and rifampin) in tuberculosis patients to overcome their hepatotoxic adverse effect.

Preparation and Evaluation of Diosmin-Loaded Diphenylcarbonate-Cross-Linked Cyclodextrin Nanosponges for Breast Cancer Therapy

In the current study, diosmin (DSM)-loaded beta-cyclodextrin (β-CD)-based nanosponges (NSPs) using diphenylcarbonate (DPC) as a cross-linker were prepared. Four different DSM-loaded NSPs (D-NSP1-NSP4) were developed by varying the molar ratio of β-CD: DCP (1:15-1:6). Based on preliminary evaluations, NSPs (D-NSP3) were optimized for size (412 ± 6.1 nm), polydispersity index (PDI) (0.259), zeta potential (ZP) (-10.8 ± 4.3 mV), and drug loading (DL) (88.7 ± 8.5%), and were further evaluated by in vitro release, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and in vitro antioxidant studies. The NSPs (D-NSP3) exhibited improved free radical scavenging activity (85.58% at 100 g/mL) compared to pure DSM. Dissolution efficiency (%DE) was enhanced to 71.50% (D-NSP3) from plain DSM (58.59%). The D-NSP3 formulation followed the Korsmeyer-Peppas kinetic model and had an n value of 0.529 indicating a non-Fickian and controlled release by diffusion and relaxation. The D-NSP3 showed cytotoxic activity against MCF-7 breast cancer, as evidenced by caspase 3, 9, and p53 activities. According to the findings, DSM-loaded NSPs might be a promising therapy option for breast cancer.

Role of ZNF143 and Its Association with Gene Expression Patterns, Noncoding Mutations, and the Immune System in Human Breast Cancer

The function of noncoding sequence variations at ZNF143 binding sites in breast cancer cells is currently not well understood. Distal elements and promoters, also known as cis-regulatory elements, control the expression of genes. They may be identified by functional genomic techniques and sequence conservation, and they frequently show cell- and tissue-type specificity. The creation, destruction, or modulation of TF binding and function may be influenced by genetic modifications at TF binding sites that affect the binding affinity. Therefore, noncoding mutations that affect the ZNF143 binding site may be able to alter the expression of some genes in breast cancer. In order to understand the relationship among ZNF143, gene expression patterns, and noncoding mutations, we adopted an integrative strategy in this study and paid close attention to putative immunological signaling pathways. The immune system-related pathways ErbB, HIF1a, NF-kB, FoxO, JAK-STAT, Wnt, Notch, cell cycle, PI3K-AKT, RAP1, calcium signaling, cell junctions and adhesion, actin cytoskeleton regulation, and cancer pathways are among those that may be significant, according to the overall analysis.

An Approach for Systems-Level Understanding of Prostate Cancer from High-Throughput Data Integration to Pathway Modeling and Simulation

To understand complex diseases, high-throughput data are generated at large and multiple levels. However, extracting meaningful information from large datasets for comprehensive understanding of cell phenotypes and disease pathophysiology remains a major challenge. Despite tremendous advances in understanding molecular mechanisms of cancer and its progression, current knowledge appears discrete and fragmented. In order to render this wealth of data more integrated and thus informative, we have developed a GECIP toolbox to investigate the crosstalk and the responsible genes'/proteins' connectivity of enriched pathways from gene expression data. To implement this toolbox, we used mainly gene expression datasets of prostate cancer, and the three datasets were GSE17951, GSE8218, and GSE1431. The raw samples were processed for normalization, prediction of differentially expressed genes, and the prediction of enriched pathways for the differentially expressed genes. The enriched pathways have been processed for crosstalk degree calculations for which number connections per gene, the frequency of genes in the pathways, sharing frequency, and the connectivity have been used. For network prediction, protein-protein interaction network database FunCoup2.0 was used, and cytoscape software was used for the network visualization. In our results, we found that there were enriched pathways 27, 45, and 22 for GSE17951, GSE8218, and GSE1431, respectively, and 11 pathways in common between all of them. From the crosstalk results, we observe that focal adhesion and PI3K pathways, both experimentally proven central for cellular output upon perturbation of numerous individual/distinct signaling pathways, displayed highest crosstalk degree. Moreover, we also observe that there were more critical pathways which appear to be highly significant, and these pathways are HIF1a, hippo, AMPK, and Ras. In terms of the pathways' components, GSK3B, YWHAE, HIF1A, ATP1A3, and PRKCA are shared between the aforementioned pathways and have higher connectivity with the pathways and the other pathway components. Finally, we conclude that the focal adhesion and PI3K pathways are the most critical pathways, and since for many other pathways, high-rank enrichment did not translate to high crosstalk degree, the global impact of one pathway on others appears distinct from enrichment.

Multidirectional Characterization of Phytochemical Profile and Health-Promoting Effects of Ziziphora bungeana Juz. Extracts

Ziziphora species (Lamiaceae) have been used in traditional medicine as sedatives, antiseptics, carminatives, or expectorants. Despite their common applications in phytotherapy, there is still lack of evidence about the composition of their extracts and its impact on biological properties of the plants. The aim of this study was to evaluate the content of Ziziphora bungeana, a less studied species growing in Kazakhstan, using HPLC-ESI-QTOF-MS/MS instrumentation and to determine its antimicrobial, antioxidant, and cytotoxic activity together with inhibitory properties against tyrosinase and toxicity in erythrocyte lysis assay. Extracts from Z. bungeana were found to be sources of flavonoids, phenolic acids, organic acids, and terpenes that determined their antiradical activity. The minimum inhibitory concentrations of extracts were lower for Gram-positive bacteria (1.25-10 mg/mL) than for Gram-negative bacteria and fungi (5-20 mg/mL). The EC₅₀ value calculated for antiradical activity ranged between 15.00 ± 1.06 µg/mL and 13.21 ± 3.24 µg/mL for ABTS and DPPH assays, respectively. Z. bungeana extracts were found to decrease the activity of tyrosinase by 50% (at 200 µg/mL) similarly to kojic acid and were slightly cytotoxic for human melanoma A375 cell line (at 200 µg/mL) with no effect on HaCaT keratinocytes. In the end, Z. bungeana did not reveal toxic effects in hemolytic assay as compared to the positive control Triton X-100. The performed tests show potential application of the plant in the treatment of infectious diseases, disorders caused by free radicals, and skin problems.