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Kang Q, He L, Zhang Y, Zhong Z, Tan W. Immune-inflammatory modulation by natural products derived from edible and medicinal herbs used in Chinese classical prescriptions. PHYTOMEDICINE : INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PHYTOTHERAPY AND PHYTOPHARMACOLOGY 2024; 130:155684. [PMID: 38788391 DOI: 10.1016/j.phymed.2024.155684] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2023] [Revised: 01/29/2024] [Accepted: 04/24/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Edible and medicinal herbs1 (EMHs) refer to a class of substances with dual attribution of food and medicine. These substances are traditionally used as food and also listed in many international pharmacopoeias, including the European Pharmacopoeia, the United States Pharmacopoeia, and the Chinese Pharmacopoeia. Some classical formulas that are widely used in traditional Chinese medicine include a series of EMHs, which have been shown to be effective with obvious characteristics and advantages. Notably, these EMHs and Chinese classical prescriptions2 (CCPs) have also attracted attention in international herbal medicine research because of their low toxicity and high efficiency as well as the rich body of experience for their long-term clinical use. PURPOSE Our purpose is to explore the potential therapeutic effect of EMHs with immune-inflammatory modulation for the study of modern cancer drugs. STUDY DESIGN In the present study, we present a detailed account of some EMHs used in CCPs that have shown considerable research potential in studies exploring modern drugs with immune-inflammatory modulation. METHODS Approximately 500 publications in the past 30 years were collected from PubMed, Web of Science and ScienceDirect using the keywords, such as natural products, edible and medicinal herbs, Chinese medicine, classical prescription, immune-inflammatory, tumor microenvironment and some related synonyms. The active ingredients instead of herbal extracts or botanical mixtures were focused on and the research conducted over the past decade were discussed emphatically and analyzed comprehensively. RESULTS More than ten natural products derived from EMHs used in CCPs are discussed and their immune-inflammatory modulation activities, including enhancing antitumor immunity, regulating inflammatory signaling pathways, lowering the proportion of immunosuppressive cells, inhibiting the secretion of proinflammatory cytokines, immunosuppressive factors, and inflammatory mediators, are summarized. CONCLUSION Our findings demonstrate the immune-inflammatory modulating role of those EMHs used in CCPs and provide new ideas for cancer treatment in clinical settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qianming Kang
- School of Pharmacy, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, China
| | - Luying He
- School of Pharmacy, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, China
| | - Yang Zhang
- School of Pharmacy, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, China
| | - Zhangfeng Zhong
- Macao Centre for Research and Development in Chinese Medicine, State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, University of Macau, Macao SAR 999078, China.
| | - Wen Tan
- School of Pharmacy, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, China.
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2
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Huang F, Lyu B, Xie F, Li F, Xing Y, Han Z, Lai J, Ma J, Zou Y, Zeng H, Xu Z, Gao P, Luo Y, Bolund L, Tong G, Fengping X. From gut to liver: unveiling the differences of intestinal microbiota in NAFL and NASH patients. Front Microbiol 2024; 15:1366744. [PMID: 38638907 PMCID: PMC11024258 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2024.1366744] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2024] [Accepted: 03/04/2024] [Indexed: 04/20/2024] Open
Abstract
Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is increasingly recognized for its global prevalence and potential progression to more severe liver diseases such as non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). The gut microbiota plays a pivotal role in the pathogenesis of NAFLD, yet the detailed characteristics and ecological alterations of gut microbial communities during the progression from non-alcoholic fatty liver (NAFL) to NASH remain poorly understood. Methods: In this study, we conducted a comparative analysis of gut microbiota composition in individuals with NAFL and NASH to elucidate differences and characteristics. We utilized 16S rRNA sequencing to compare the intestinal gut microbiota among a healthy control group (65 cases), NAFL group (64 cases), and NASH group (53 cases). Random forest machine learning and database validation methods were employed to analyze the data. Results: Our findings indicate a significant decrease in the diversity of intestinal flora during the progression of NAFLD (p < 0.05). At the phylum level, high abundances of Bacteroidetes and Fusobacteria were observed in both NAFL and NASH patients, whereas Firmicutes were less abundant. At the genus level, a significant decrease in Prevotella expression was seen in the NAFL group (AUC 0.738), whereas an increase in the combination of Megamonas and Fusobacterium was noted in the NASH group (AUC 0.769). Furthermore, KEGG pathway analysis highlighted significant disturbances in various types of glucose metabolism pathways in the NASH group compared to the NAFL group, as well as notably compromised flavonoid and flavonol biosynthesis functions. The study uncovers distinct microbiota characteristics and microecological changes within the gut during the transition from NAFL to NASH, providing insights that could facilitate the discovery of novel biomarkers and therapeutic targets for NAFLD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Furong Huang
- Faculty of Chinese Medicine and State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, Macau University of Science and Technology, Macau, China
- Department of Hepatology, Shenzhen Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, Shenzhen, China
- Department of Sanming Project of Medicine in Shenzhen, Shenzhen Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Bo Lyu
- College of Life Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- BGI Cell, Shenzhen, China
| | - Fanci Xie
- The Fourth Clinical Medical College of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Shenzhen, China
- People's Hospital of Longhua, Shenzhen, China
| | - Fang Li
- BGI, Shenzhen, China
- Qingdao-Europe Advanced Institute for Life Sciences, BGI Research, Qingdao, China
- Lars Bolund Institute of Regenerative Medicine, BGI-Qingdao, BGI Research, Qingdao, China
| | - Yufeng Xing
- Department of Hepatology, Shenzhen Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, Shenzhen, China
- Department of Sanming Project of Medicine in Shenzhen, Shenzhen Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Zhiyi Han
- Department of Hepatology, Shenzhen Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, Shenzhen, China
- Department of Sanming Project of Medicine in Shenzhen, Shenzhen Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Jianping Lai
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Shenzhen Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | | | - Yuanqiang Zou
- BGI, Shenzhen, China
- Qingdao-Europe Advanced Institute for Life Sciences, BGI Research, Qingdao, China
| | - Hua Zeng
- Department of Hepatology, Shenzhen Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, Shenzhen, China
- Department of Sanming Project of Medicine in Shenzhen, Shenzhen Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Zhe Xu
- BGI, Shenzhen, China
- Qingdao-Europe Advanced Institute for Life Sciences, BGI Research, Qingdao, China
- Lars Bolund Institute of Regenerative Medicine, BGI-Qingdao, BGI Research, Qingdao, China
| | - Pan Gao
- BGI, Shenzhen, China
- Qingdao-Europe Advanced Institute for Life Sciences, BGI Research, Qingdao, China
- Lars Bolund Institute of Regenerative Medicine, BGI-Qingdao, BGI Research, Qingdao, China
| | - Yonglun Luo
- Department of Sanming Project of Medicine in Shenzhen, Shenzhen Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, Shenzhen, China
- College of Life Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- BGI Cell, Shenzhen, China
- BGI, Shenzhen, China
- Qingdao-Europe Advanced Institute for Life Sciences, BGI Research, Qingdao, China
- Lars Bolund Institute of Regenerative Medicine, BGI-Qingdao, BGI Research, Qingdao, China
| | - Lars Bolund
- Department of Sanming Project of Medicine in Shenzhen, Shenzhen Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, Shenzhen, China
- BGI Cell, Shenzhen, China
- BGI, Shenzhen, China
- Qingdao-Europe Advanced Institute for Life Sciences, BGI Research, Qingdao, China
- Lars Bolund Institute of Regenerative Medicine, BGI-Qingdao, BGI Research, Qingdao, China
| | - Guangdong Tong
- Faculty of Chinese Medicine and State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, Macau University of Science and Technology, Macau, China
- Department of Hepatology, Shenzhen Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, Shenzhen, China
- Department of Sanming Project of Medicine in Shenzhen, Shenzhen Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, Shenzhen, China
- The Fourth Clinical Medical College of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Shenzhen, China
| | - Xu Fengping
- Department of Sanming Project of Medicine in Shenzhen, Shenzhen Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, Shenzhen, China
- College of Life Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- BGI Cell, Shenzhen, China
- BGI, Shenzhen, China
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3
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Yan YF, Feng Y, Wang SM, Fang F, Chen HY, Zhen MX, Ji YQ, Wu SD. Potential actions of capsaicin for preventing vascular calcification of vascular smooth muscle cells in vitro and in vivo. Heliyon 2024; 10:e28021. [PMID: 38524547 PMCID: PMC10958412 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e28021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2023] [Revised: 03/09/2024] [Accepted: 03/11/2024] [Indexed: 03/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Vascular calcification (VC) is an accurate risk factor and predictor of adverse cardiovascular events; however, there is currently no effective therapy to specifically prevent VC progression. Capsaicin (Cap) is a bioactive alkaloid isolated from Capsicum annuum L., a traditional medicinal and edible plant that is beneficial for preventing cardiovascular diseases. However, the effect of Cap on VC remains unclear. This study aimed to explore the effects and related mechanisms of Cap on aortic calcification in a mouse and on Pi-induced calcification in vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs). First, we established a calcification mouse model with vitamin D3 and evaluated the effects of Cap on calcification mice using von Kossa staining, calcium content, and alkaline phosphatase activity tests. The results showed that Cap significantly improved calcification in mice. VSMCs were then cultured in 2.6 mM Na2HPO4 and 50 μg/mL ascorbic acid for 7 days to obtain a calcification model, and we investigated the effects and mechanisms of Cap on VSMCs calcification by assessing the changes of calcium deposition, calcium content, and subsequent VC biomarkers. These results showed that Cap alleviated VSMCs calcification by upregulating the expressions of TRPV1. Moreover, Cap reduced the expression of Wnt3a and β-catenin, whereas DKK1 antagonised the inhibitory effect of Cap on VSMC calcification. This study is the first to offer direct evidence that Cap inhibits the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway by upregulating the expression of the TRPV1 receptor, resulting in the decreased expression of Runx2 and BMP-2, thereby reducing VSMC calcification. Our study may provide novel strategies for preventing the progression of VC. This could serve as a theoretical basis for clinically treating VC with spicy foods.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yin-Fang Yan
- Department of Central Laboratory, The First Affiliated Hospital of Northwestern University, The First Hospital of Xi'an, Xi'an, 710069, Shaanxi Province, China
- Xi'an Key Laboratory for Innovation and Translation of Neuroimmunological Diseases, Xi'an, Shaanxi Province, China
| | - Yue Feng
- Department of Central Laboratory, The First Affiliated Hospital of Northwestern University, The First Hospital of Xi'an, Xi'an, 710069, Shaanxi Province, China
- Xi'an Key Laboratory for Innovation and Translation of Neuroimmunological Diseases, Xi'an, Shaanxi Province, China
| | - Si-Min Wang
- Department of Central Laboratory, The First Affiliated Hospital of Northwestern University, The First Hospital of Xi'an, Xi'an, 710069, Shaanxi Province, China
- Xi'an Key Laboratory for Innovation and Translation of Neuroimmunological Diseases, Xi'an, Shaanxi Province, China
| | - Fei Fang
- Department of Central Laboratory, The First Affiliated Hospital of Northwestern University, The First Hospital of Xi'an, Xi'an, 710069, Shaanxi Province, China
- Xi'an Key Laboratory for Innovation and Translation of Neuroimmunological Diseases, Xi'an, Shaanxi Province, China
| | - Hong-Yan Chen
- Department of Central Laboratory, The First Affiliated Hospital of Northwestern University, The First Hospital of Xi'an, Xi'an, 710069, Shaanxi Province, China
- Xi'an Key Laboratory for Innovation and Translation of Neuroimmunological Diseases, Xi'an, Shaanxi Province, China
| | - Ming-Xia Zhen
- Department of Central Laboratory, The First Affiliated Hospital of Northwestern University, The First Hospital of Xi'an, Xi'an, 710069, Shaanxi Province, China
- Xi'an Key Laboratory for Innovation and Translation of Neuroimmunological Diseases, Xi'an, Shaanxi Province, China
| | - Yu-Qiang Ji
- Department of Central Laboratory, The First Affiliated Hospital of Northwestern University, The First Hospital of Xi'an, Xi'an, 710069, Shaanxi Province, China
- Xi'an Key Laboratory for Innovation and Translation of Neuroimmunological Diseases, Xi'an, Shaanxi Province, China
| | - Song-Di Wu
- Department of Central Laboratory, The First Affiliated Hospital of Northwestern University, The First Hospital of Xi'an, Xi'an, 710069, Shaanxi Province, China
- Xi'an Key Laboratory for Innovation and Translation of Neuroimmunological Diseases, Xi'an, Shaanxi Province, China
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4
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Fossatelli L, Maroccia Z, Fiorentini C, Bonucci M. Resources for Human Health from the Plant Kingdom: The Potential Role of the Flavonoid Apigenin in Cancer Counteraction. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 25:251. [PMID: 38203418 PMCID: PMC10778966 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25010251] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2023] [Revised: 12/20/2023] [Accepted: 12/21/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Apigenin is one of the most widespread flavonoids in the plant kingdom. For centuries, apigenin-containing plant preparations have been used in traditional medicines to treat diseases that have an inflammatory and/or degenerative component. In the 1980s, apigenin was proposed to interfere with the process of carcinogenesis. Since then, more and more evidence has demonstrated its anticancer efficacy, both in vitro and in vivo. Apigenin has been shown to target signaling pathways involved in the development and progression of cancer, such as PI3K/Akt/mTOR, MAPK/ERK, JAK/STAT, NF-κB, and Wnt/β-catenin pathways, and to modulate different hallmarks of cancer, such as cell proliferation, metastasis, apoptosis, invasion, and cell migration. Furthermore, apigenin modulates PD1/PD-L1 expression in cancer/T killer cells and regulates the percentage of T killer and T regulatory cells. Recently, apigenin has been studied for its synergic and additive effects when combined with chemotherapy, minimizing the side effects. Unfortunately, its low bioavailability and high permeability limit its therapeutic applications. Based on micro- and nanoformulations that enhance the physical stability and drug-loading capacity of apigenin and increase the bioavailability of apigenin, novel drug-delivery systems have been investigated to improve its solubility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Fossatelli
- Association for Research on Integrative Oncology Therapies (ARTOI) Foundation, Via Ludovico Micara 73, 00165 Rome, Italy; (L.F.); (M.B.)
| | - Zaira Maroccia
- Department of Cardiovascular, Endocrine-Metabolic Diseases and Aging, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Viale Regina Elena 299, 00161 Rome, Italy;
| | - Carla Fiorentini
- Association for Research on Integrative Oncology Therapies (ARTOI) Foundation, Via Ludovico Micara 73, 00165 Rome, Italy; (L.F.); (M.B.)
| | - Massimo Bonucci
- Association for Research on Integrative Oncology Therapies (ARTOI) Foundation, Via Ludovico Micara 73, 00165 Rome, Italy; (L.F.); (M.B.)
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5
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Capuozzo M, Celotto V, Landi L, Ferrara F, Sabbatino F, Perri F, Cascella M, Granata V, Santorsola M, Ottaiano A. Beyond Body Size: Adiponectin as a Key Player in Obesity-Driven Cancers. Nutr Cancer 2023; 75:1848-1862. [PMID: 37873648 DOI: 10.1080/01635581.2023.2272343] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2023] [Accepted: 08/23/2023] [Indexed: 10/25/2023]
Abstract
Obesity, a complex and multifactorial disease influenced by genetic, environmental, and psychological factors, has reached epidemic proportions globally, posing a significant health challenge. In addition to its established association with cardiovascular disease and type II diabetes, obesity has been implicated as a risk factor for various cancers. However, the precise biological mechanisms linking obesity and cancer remain largely understood. Adipose tissue, an active endocrine organ, produces numerous hormones and bioactive molecules known as adipokines, which play a crucial role in metabolism, immune responses, and systemic inflammation. Notably, adiponectin (APN), the principal adipocyte secretory protein, exhibits reduced expression levels in obesity. In this scoping review, we explore and discuss the role of APN in influencing cancer in common malignancies, including lung, breast, colorectal, prostate, gastric, and endometrial cancers. Our review aims to emphasize the critical significance of investigating this field, as it holds great potential for the development of innovative treatment strategies that specifically target obesity-related malignancies. Furthermore, the implementation of more rigorous and comprehensive prevention and treatment policies for obesity is imperative in order to effectively mitigate the risk of associated diseases, such as cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Francesco Sabbatino
- Oncology Unit, Department of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry, University of Salerno, Baronissi, Salerno, Italy
| | - Francesco Perri
- Istituto Nazionale Tumori di Napoli, IRCCS "G. Pascale", Naples, Italy
| | - Marco Cascella
- Istituto Nazionale Tumori di Napoli, IRCCS "G. Pascale", Naples, Italy
| | - Vincenza Granata
- Istituto Nazionale Tumori di Napoli, IRCCS "G. Pascale", Naples, Italy
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6
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Leonte D, Ungureanu D, Zaharia V. Flavones and Related Compounds: Synthesis and Biological Activity. Molecules 2023; 28:6528. [PMID: 37764304 PMCID: PMC10535985 DOI: 10.3390/molecules28186528] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2023] [Revised: 09/04/2023] [Accepted: 09/05/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
This review focuses on the synthesis and biological activity of flavones and their related flavonoidic compounds, namely flavonols and aurones. Among the biological activities of natural and synthetic flavones and aurones, their anticancer, antioxidant, and antimicrobial properties are highlighted and detailed in this review. Starting from the structures of natural flavones acting on multiple anticancer targets (myricetin, genkwanin, and other structurally related compounds), new flavone analogs were recently designed and evaluated for their anticancer activity. The most representative compounds and their anticancer activity are summarized in this review. Natural flavones recognized for their antimicrobial properties (baicalein, luteolin, quercetol, apigenin, kaempferol, tricin) have been recently derivatized or structurally modulated by chemical synthetic methods in order to obtain new effective antimicrobial flavonoidic derivatives with improved biological properties. The most promising antimicrobial agents are systematically highlighted in this review. The most applied method for the synthesis of flavones and aurones is based on the oxidative cyclization of o-hydroxychalcones. Depending on the reaction conditions and the structure of the precursor, in some cases, several cyclization products result simultaneously: flavones, flavanones, flavonols, and aurones. Based on the literature data and the results obtained by our research group, our aim is to highlight the most promising methods for the synthesis of flavones, as well as the synthetic routes for the other structurally related cyclization products, such as hydroxyflavones and aurones, while considering that, in practice, it is difficult to predict which is the main or exclusive cyclization product of o-hydroxychalcones under certain reaction conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Valentin Zaharia
- Department of Organic Chemistry, Iuliu Hațieganu University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Victor Babeş 41, RO-400012 Cluj-Napoca, Romania; (D.L.); (D.U.)
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7
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El Menyiy N, Aboulaghras S, Bakrim S, Moubachir R, Taha D, Khalid A, Abdalla AN, Algarni AS, Hermansyah A, Ming LC, Rusu ME, Bouyahya A. Genkwanin: An emerging natural compound with multifaceted pharmacological effects. Biomed Pharmacother 2023; 165:115159. [PMID: 37481929 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2023.115159] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2023] [Revised: 07/10/2023] [Accepted: 07/11/2023] [Indexed: 07/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Plant bioactive molecules could play key preventive and therapeutic roles in chronological aging and the pathogenesis of many chronic diseases, often accompanied by increased oxidative stress and low-grade inflammation. Dietary antioxidants, including genkwanin, could decrease oxidative stress and the expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines or pathways. The present study is the first comprehensive review of genkwanin, a methoxyflavone found in several plant species. Indeed, natural sources, and pharmacokinetics of genkwanin, the biological properties were discussed and highlighted in detail. This review analyzed and considered all original studies related to identification, isolation, quantification, investigation of the biological and pharmacological properties of genkwanin. We consulted all published papers in peer-reviewed journals in the English language from the inception of each database to 12 May 2023. Different phytochemical demonstrated that genkwanin is a non-glycosylated flavone found and isolated from several medicinal plants such as Genkwa Flos, Rosmarinus officinalis, Salvia officinalis, and Leonurus sibiricus. In vitro and in vivo biological and pharmacological investigations showed that Genkwanin exhibits remarkable antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities, genkwanin, via activation of glucokinase, has shown antihyperglycemic activity with a potential role against metabolic syndrome and diabetes. Additionally, it revealed cardioprotective and neuroprotective properties, thus reducing the risk of cardiovascular diseases and assisting against neurodegenerative diseases. Furthermore, genkwanin showed other biological properties like antitumor capability, antibacterial, antiviral, and dermato-protective effects. The involved mechanisms include sub-cellular, cellular and molecular actions at different levels such as inducing apoptosis and inhibiting the growth and proliferation of cancer cells. Despite the findings from preclinical studies that have demonstrated the effects of genkwanin and its diverse mechanisms of action, additional research is required to comprehensively explore its therapeutic potential. Primarily, extensive studies should be carried out to enhance our understanding of the molecule's pharmacodynamic actions and pharmacokinetic pathways. Moreover, toxicological and clinical investigations should be undertaken to assess the safety and clinical efficacy of genkwanin. These forthcoming studies are of utmost importance in fully unlocking the potential of this molecule in the realm of therapeutic applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Naoual El Menyiy
- Laboratory of Pharmacology, National Agency of Medicinal and Aromatic Plants, Taounate 34025, Morocco.
| | - Sara Aboulaghras
- Laboratory of Human Pathologies Biology, Faculty of Sciences, Mohammed V University in Rabat, Rabat 10106, Morocco.
| | - Saad Bakrim
- Geo-Bio-Environment Engineering and Innovation Laboratory, Molecular Engineering, Biotechnology and Innovation Team, Polydisciplinary Faculty of Taroudant, Ibn Zohr University, Agadir 80000, Morocco.
| | - Rania Moubachir
- Bioactives and Environmental Health Laboratory, Faculty of Sciences, Moulay Ismail University, Meknes, Morocco.
| | - Doaue Taha
- Molecular Modeling, Materials, Nanomaterials, Water and Environment Laboratory, CERNE2D, Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Sciences, Mohammed V University in Rabat, Rabat 10106, Morocco.
| | - Asaad Khalid
- Substance Abuse and Toxicology Research Center, Jazan University, P.O. Box: 114, Jazan 45142, Saudi Arabia.
| | - Ashraf N Abdalla
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, Umm Al-Qura University, Makkah 21955, Saudi Arabia.
| | - Alanood S Algarni
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, Umm Al-Qura University, Makkah 21955, Saudi Arabia.
| | - Andi Hermansyah
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, Faculty of Pharmacy, Universitas Airlangga, Surabaya 60115, Indonesia.
| | - Long Chiau Ming
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, Faculty of Pharmacy, Universitas Airlangga, Surabaya 60115, Indonesia; School of Medical and Life Sciences, Sunway University, Sunway City, Malaysia; PAPRSB Institute of Health Sciences, Universiti Brunei Darussalam, Gadong, Brunei Darussalam.
| | - Marius Emil Rusu
- Department of Pharmaceutical Technology and Biopharmaceutics, Faculty of Pharmacy, Iuliu Hatieganu University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 8 Victor Babes, 400012 Cluj-Napoca, Romania.
| | - Abdelhakim Bouyahya
- Laboratory of Human Pathologies Biology, Faculty of Sciences, Mohammed V University in Rabat, Rabat 10106, Morocco.
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8
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Kim K, Hong HL, Kim GM, Leem J, Kwon HH. Eupatilin Ameliorates Lipopolysaccharide-Induced Acute Kidney Injury by Inhibiting Inflammation, Oxidative Stress, and Apoptosis in Mice. Curr Issues Mol Biol 2023; 45:7027-7042. [PMID: 37754228 PMCID: PMC10530142 DOI: 10.3390/cimb45090444] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2023] [Revised: 08/18/2023] [Accepted: 08/22/2023] [Indexed: 09/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Acute kidney injury (AKI) is a common complication of sepsis. Eupatilin (EUP) is a natural flavone with multiple biological activities and has beneficial effects against various inflammatory disorders. However, whether EUP has a favorable effect on septic AKI remains unknown. Here, we examined the effect of EUP on lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-evoked AKI in mice. LPS-evoked renal dysfunction was attenuated by EUP, as reflected by reductions in serum creatinine and blood urea nitrogen levels. LPS injection also induced structural damage such as tubular cell detachment, tubular dilatation, brush border loss of proximal tubules, and upregulation of tubular injury markers. However, EUP significantly ameliorated this structural damage. EUP decreased serum and renal cytokine levels, prevented macrophage infiltration, and inhibited mitogen-activated protein kinase and NF-κB signaling cascades. Lipid peroxidation and DNA oxidation were increased after LPS treatment. However, EUP mitigated LPS-evoked oxidative stress through downregulation of NPDPH oxidase 4 and upregulation of antioxidant enzymes. EUP also inhibited p53-mediated apoptosis in LPS-treated mice. Therefore, these results suggest that EUP ameliorates LPS-evoked AKI through inhibiting inflammation, oxidative stress, and apoptosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kiryeong Kim
- Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, Daegu Catholic University, Daegu 42472, Republic of Korea; (K.K.); (H.-L.H.)
| | - Hyo-Lim Hong
- Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, Daegu Catholic University, Daegu 42472, Republic of Korea; (K.K.); (H.-L.H.)
| | - Gyun Moo Kim
- Department of Emergency Medicine, School of Medicine, Daegu Catholic University, Daegu 42472, Republic of Korea;
| | - Jaechan Leem
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Daegu Catholic University, Daegu 42472, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyun Hee Kwon
- Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, Daegu Catholic University, Daegu 42472, Republic of Korea; (K.K.); (H.-L.H.)
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de Sousa DP, Damasceno ROS, Amorati R, Elshabrawy HA, de Castro RD, Bezerra DP, Nunes VRV, Gomes RC, Lima TC. Essential Oils: Chemistry and Pharmacological Activities. Biomolecules 2023; 13:1144. [PMID: 37509180 PMCID: PMC10377445 DOI: 10.3390/biom13071144] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2023] [Revised: 07/03/2023] [Accepted: 07/10/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
In this review, we provide an overview of the current understanding of the main mechanisms of pharmacological action of essential oils and their components in various biological systems. A brief introduction on essential oil chemistry is presented to better understand the relationship of chemical aspects with the bioactivity of these products. Next, the antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antitumor, and antimicrobial activities are discussed. The mechanisms of action against various types of viruses are also addressed. The data show that the multiplicity of pharmacological properties of essential oils occurs due to the chemical diversity in their composition and their ability to interfere with biological processes at cellular and multicellular levels via interaction with various biological targets. Therefore, these natural products can be a promising source for the development of new drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Damião P de Sousa
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Federal University of Paraiba, João Pessoa 58051-900, Brazil
| | - Renan Oliveira S Damasceno
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Center of Biosciences, Federal University of Pernambuco, Recife 50670-901, Brazil
| | - Riccardo Amorati
- Department of Chemistry "G. Ciamician", University of Bologna, Via Gobetti 83, 40129 Bologna, Italy
| | - Hatem A Elshabrawy
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, College of Osteopathic Medicine, Sam Houston State University, Conroe, TX 77304, USA
| | - Ricardo D de Castro
- Department of Clinical and Social Dentistry, Federal University of Paraíba, João Pessoa 58051-970, Brazil
| | - Daniel P Bezerra
- Instituto Gonçalo Moniz, Fundação Oswaldo Cruz (IGM-FIOCRUZ/BA), Salvador 40296-710, Brazil
| | - Vitória Regina V Nunes
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Federal University of Paraiba, João Pessoa 58051-900, Brazil
| | - Rebeca C Gomes
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Federal University of Paraiba, João Pessoa 58051-900, Brazil
| | - Tamires C Lima
- Department of Pharmacy, Federal University of Sergipe, São Cristóvão 49100-000, Brazil
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Barreca MM, Alessandro R, Corrado C. Effects of Flavonoids on Cancer, Cardiovascular and Neurodegenerative Diseases: Role of NF-κB Signaling Pathway. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24119236. [PMID: 37298188 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24119236] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2023] [Revised: 05/17/2023] [Accepted: 05/23/2023] [Indexed: 06/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Flavonoids are polyphenolic phytochemical compounds found in many plants, fruits, vegetables, and leaves. They have a multitude of medicinal applications due to their anti-inflammatory, antioxidative, antiviral, and anticarcinogenic properties. Furthermore, they also have neuroprotective and cardioprotective effects. Their biological properties depend on the chemical structure of flavonoids, their mechanism of action, and their bioavailability. The beneficial effects of flavonoids have been proven for a variety of diseases. In the last few years, it is demonstrated that the effects of flavonoids are mediated by inhibiting the NF-κB (Nuclear Factor-κB) pathway. In this review, we have summarized the effects of some flavonoids on the most common diseases, such as cancer, cardiovascular, and human neurodegenerative diseases. Here, we collected all recent studies describing the protective and prevention role of flavonoids derived from plants by specifically focusing their action on the NF-κB signaling pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Magdalena Barreca
- Department of Biomedicine, Neuroscience and Advanced Diagnostics (Bi.N.D.), Section of Biology and Genetics, University of Palermo, 90133 Palermo, Italy
| | - Riccardo Alessandro
- Department of Biomedicine, Neuroscience and Advanced Diagnostics (Bi.N.D.), Section of Biology and Genetics, University of Palermo, 90133 Palermo, Italy
| | - Chiara Corrado
- Department of Biomedicine, Neuroscience and Advanced Diagnostics (Bi.N.D.), Section of Biology and Genetics, University of Palermo, 90133 Palermo, Italy
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