Antiproliferative, antimicrobial and apoptosis inducing effects of compounds isolated from Inula viscosa

Chemical composition, biological activities, and molecular mechanism of Inula viscosa (L.) bioactive compounds: a review

Inula viscosa is an herbaceous plant mainly found in Mediterranean regions, predominantly, used in developing countries as a folk remedy for treating numerous diseases using different traditional methods of preparation that includes infusion, decoction, and external application. Researchers have been interested in studying the antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antifungal, antibacterial, antidiabetic, and antitumor effects of I. viscosa extracts, due to its high countenance of bioactive molecules. The chemical studies of ethanol, methanol, chloroform, aqueous, petroleum ether, dichloromethane, and ethyl acetate extracts from different parts of I. viscosa, growing around the world, and analyzed by different analytical techniques allowed to isolate and identify a great number of secondary metabolites from terpenes, flavonoids, phenylpropanoids, and polyketides, and complementary in vitro and in vivo studies indicated the pharmacological activities of an isolated compound, a mixture, or the crude extract. I. viscosa extracts had a great in vivo potential reducing mice paw, ear, and the severity of pulmonary edema, and the occurrence of skin carcinoma growing; in vitro recent study results showed, in addition, the high antioxidant, α-glucosidase, and α-amylase inhibitory activity, and neuroprotectivity effects; a correlation with the in vivo studies confirming the anti-inflammatory and antitumor proprieties, elucidating some molecular mechanisms: showing that tomentosin reduced pro-inflammatory cytokine secretion (IFNγ, IL-1, IL-2, TNF-α, and IL-6) via the suppression of transcription factor NF-κB and MAP kinase (p38/JNK) activation, and that the two phenolic compounds banaxanthone E and paxanthone inhibited the antiapoptotic protein BCL-2, activating the apoptotic process leading to the antiproliferative effect.

Polyphenols of the Inuleae-Inulinae and Their Biological Activities: A Review

Polyphenols are ubiquitous plant metabolites that demonstrate biological activities essential to plant-environment interactions. They are of interest to plant food consumers, as well as to the food, pharmaceutical and cosmetic industry. The class of the plant metabolites comprises both widespread (chlorogenic acids, luteolin, quercetin) and unique compounds of diverse chemical structures but of the common biosynthetic origin. Polyphenols next to sesquiterpenoids are regarded as the major class of the Inuleae-Inulinae metabolites responsible for the pharmacological activity of medicinal plants from the subtribe (Blumea spp., Dittrichia spp., Inula spp., Pulicaria spp. and others). Recent decades have brought a rapid development of molecular and analytical techniques which resulted in better understanding of the taxonomic relationships within the Inuleae tribe and in a plethora of data concerning the chemical constituents of the Inuleae-Inulinae. The current taxonomical classification has introduced changes in the well-established botanical names and rearranged the genera based on molecular plant genetic studies. The newly created chemical data together with the earlier phytochemical studies may provide some complementary information on biochemical relationships within the subtribe. Moreover, they may at least partly explain pharmacological activities of the plant preparations traditionally used in therapy. The current review aimed to systematize the knowledge on the polyphenols of the Inulae-Inulinae.

Hispidulin: a promising anticancer agent and mechanistic breakthrough for targeted cancer therapy

Cancer is a complex disease characterized by dysregulated cell growth and division, posing significant challenges for effective treatment. Hispidulin, a flavonoid compound, has shown promising biological effects, particularly in the field of anticancer research. The main objective of this study is to investigate the anticancer properties of hispidulin and gain insight into its mechanistic targets in cancer cells. A comprehensive literature review was conducted to collect data on the anticancer effects of hispidulin. In vitro and in vivo studies were analyzed to identify the molecular targets and underlying mechanisms through which hispidulin exerts its anticancer activities. Hispidulin has shown significant effects on various aspects of cancer, including cell growth, proliferation, cell cycle regulation, angiogenesis, metastasis, and apoptosis. It has been observed to target both extrinsic and intrinsic apoptotic pathways, regulate cell cycle arrest, and modulate cancer progression pathways. The existing literature highlights the potential of hispidulin as a potent anticancer agent. Hispidulin exhibits promising potential as a therapeutic agent for cancer treatment. Its ability to induce apoptosis and modulate key molecular targets involved in cancer progression makes it a valuable candidate for further investigation. Additional pharmacological studies are needed to fully understand the specific targets and signaling pathways influenced by hispidulin in different types of cancer. Further research will contribute to the successful translation of hispidulin into clinical settings, allowing its utilization in conventional and advanced cancer therapies with improved therapeutic outcomes and reduced side effects.

Methanolic Extracts of D. viscosa Specifically Affect the Cytoskeleton and Exert an Antiproliferative Effect on Human Colorectal Cancer Cell Lines, According to Their Proliferation Rate

Numerous studies have reported the pharmacological effects exhibited by Dittrichia viscosa, (D. viscosa) including antioxidant, cytotoxic, antiproliferative, and anticancer properties. In our research, our primary objective was to validate a prescreening methodology aimed at identifying the fraction that demonstrates the most potent antiproliferative and anticancer effects. Specifically, we investigated the impact of various extract fractions on the cytoskeleton using a screening method involving transgenic plants. Tumors are inherently heterogeneous, and the components of the cytoskeleton, particularly tubulin, are considered a strategic target for antitumor agents. To take heterogeneity into account, we used different lines of colorectal cancer, specifically one of the most common cancers regardless of gender. In patients with metastasis, the effectiveness of chemotherapy has been limited by severe side effects and by the development of resistance. Additional therapies and antiproliferative molecules are therefore needed. In our study, we used colon-like cell lines characterized by the expression of gastrointestinal differentiation markers (such as the HT-29 cell line) and undifferentiated cell lines showing the positive regulation of epithelial-mesenchymal transition and TGFβ signatures (such as the DLD-1, SW480, and SW620 cell lines). We showed that all three of the D. viscosa extract fractions have an antiproliferative effect but the pre-screening on transgenic plants anticipated that the methanolic fraction may be the most promising, targeting the cytoskeleton specifically and possibly resulting in fewer side effects. Here, we show that the preliminary use of screening in transgenic plants expressing subcellular markers can significantly reduce costs and focus the advanced characterization only on the most promising therapeutic molecules.

Medicinal plants of Jordan: Scoping review

Jordan is rich in the flora of ethnobotanical importance. This scoping review aims to highlight the ethnopharmacological value of Jordanian medicinal plants using the Preferred Reporting Items of Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA) guidelines. A total of one hundred twenty-four articles published between 2000 and 2022 obtained from PubMed, EBSCO, and Google Scholar databases were included in this review. These plants own several classes of secondary bioactive metabolites, including alkaloids, flavonoids, phenolics, and terpenes. Jordanian plants exhibited potential therapeutic activity against various tumors, bacterial infections, elevated blood glucose levels, hyperlipidemia, platelets aggregation disorders, and gastrointestinal disorders. Phytochemicals' biological activities depend on their structures, parts used, methods of extraction, and evaluation model. In conclusion, this review highlights the need of researching Jordan's abundant naturally occurring medicinal plants and their phytochemicals as novel lead molecules in drug discovery and development. Studying active phytochemicals for disease treatment will help develop drugs for safe treatment and cure in the future.

Inula viscosa (L.) Aiton Ethanolic Extract Inhibits the Growth of Human AGS and A549 Cancer Cell Lines

The present study shows the chemical profile and cytotoxic properties of the ethanolic extracts of Inula viscosa from Northeast Algeria. The extract was obtained by maceration using ethanol. Its phenolic profile was determined using ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography coupled with a diode array detector and an electrospray mass spectrometer (UHPLC-DAD-ESI/MS), which allowed the identification and quantification of 17 compounds, 1,5-O-caffeoylquinic acid being the most abundant. The cytotoxic activity was assessed against human gastric cancer (AGS) and human non-small-cell lung cancer (A549) cell lines, whereas ethanolic extract elicited nearly 60 % and 40 % viability loss toward AGS and A549 cancer cells, respectively. Results also showed that cell death is caspase-independent and confirmed the involvement of RIPK1 and the necroptosis pathway in the toxicity induced by the I. viscosa extract. In addition, the ethanolic extract would not provoke morphological traits in the cancer cells. These findings suggest that I. viscosa can be a source of new antiproliferative drugs or used in preparation plant-derived pharmaceuticals.

Immunomodulatory, Anticancer, and Antimicrobial Effects of Rice Bran Grown in Iraq: An In Vitro and In Vivo Study

Emerging evidence supports the role of rice bran in cancer prevention. Studies were conducted on multiple rice cultivars. However, limited studies were conducted on rice cultivars in the Middle East. In this study, rice bran growing in Iraq (O. sativa ssp. Japonica, cultivars: Amber Barka) was evaluated for its effect on preventing cancer and stimulating the immune system. Rice bran was collected from local mills in Al-Najaf (south of Iraq). Several solvent extracts (ethanol, methanol, n-hexane, and water) were prepared by maceration. MTT assay was used to measure the antiproliferative effects of extracts against a panel of cancer cell lines. The ability of each extract to induce apoptosis and inhibit angiogenesis was measured using standard ELISA kits. The effect of extracts on the immune system was evaluated using a lymphocyte proliferation assay, a pinocytic activity assay, a phagocytic activity assay, and a Th1/Th2 cytokine detection kit. A microbroth dilution method was used to detect the antimicrobial activity of each extract against different microbial strains. LC-MS analysis was used to detect the phytochemical composition of extracts, while DPPH assay was used to determine the antioxidant activity. For the in vivo study, rice bran was added to mouse fodder at 10% and 20%. Mice were treated for two weeks using mouse fodder supplemented with rice bran. In the third week of the experiment, EMT6/P breast cancer cells (1 × 10⁶ cells/mL) were injected subcutaneously into the abdominal area of each mouse. The dimensions of the grown tumors were measured after 14 days of tumor inoculation. A microbroth dilution method was used to evaluate the antimicrobial activity of rice bran extracts against three bacterial strains. The highest antiproliferative activity was observed in ethanol and n-hexane extracts. Ethanol and methanol extract showed the highest activity to induce apoptosis and inhibit angiogenesis. Both extracts were also effective to enhance immunity by activating lymphocytes and phagocytes proliferation with modulations of cytokine levels. The incorporation of rice bran in mice food caused a 20% regression in tumor development and growth compared with the negative control. All extracts exhibited limited antimicrobial activity against tested microorganisms. Methanol extract showed antioxidant activity with an IC₅₀ value of 114 µg/mL. LC-MS analysis revealed the presence of multiple phytochemicals in rice bran including apiin, ferulic acid, and succinic acid. Rice bran is a rich source of active phytochemicals that may inhibit cancer and stimulate the immune system. Rice bran's biological activities could be due to the presence of multiple synergistically active phytochemicals. Further studies are needed to understand the exact mechanisms of action of rice bran.

Phenolic fingerprints of the Pacific seagrass Phyllospadixtorreyi - Structural characterization and quantification of undescribed flavonoid sulfates

Four undescribed flavonoid sulfates were isolated from Phyllospadix torreyi S. Watson foliar tissue. In addition, nine known flavonoid sulfates and three phenolic acids were isolated from the same extract, of which seven had never been reported for the genus Phyllospadix. Structural elucidation of individual phenolics was assigned using complementary informations from their spectral evidence (HPLC-DAD, LC-MS, NMR, and UV) and chemical behavior. The inter-annual variation in phenolic concentrations was determined by quantitative HPLC-DAD over a three-year period. The results showed a relative constancy of phenolic content over time and the high prevalence of flavonoid disulfates (70-90% of the total flavonoids detected). All samples were found dominated by the unreported nepetin 7, 3'-disulfate and 5-methoxyluteolin 7, 3'-disulfate, followed by luteolin 7, 3'-disulfate. Considering the economic potential of flavonoid sulfates in the pharmaceutical and nutraceutical segments, a sample of detrital leaves was also analyzed. The same phenolic pattern was found and the concentration of the individuals, although lower than in fresh material, makes this abundant biomass of interest for dietary and pharmaceutical applications.

Antioxidant, Antimicrobial, and Insecticidal Properties of a Chemically Characterized Essential Oil from the Leaves of Dittrichia viscosa L

Since some synthetic insecticides cause damage to human health, compounds in plants can be viable alternatives to conventional synthetic pesticides. Dittrichia viscosa L. is a perennial Mediterranean plant known to possess biological activities, including insecticidal properties. The chemical composition of an essential oil (EOD) from D. viscosa, as well as its antioxidant, antimicrobial, and insecticidal effects on the cowpea weevil (Callosobruchus maculatus) were determined. Forty-one volatile compounds were identified in EOD, which accounted for 97.5% of its constituents. Bornyl acetate (41%) was a major compound, followed by borneol (9.3%), α-amorphene (6.6%), and caryophyllene oxide (5.7%). EOD exhibited significant antioxidant activity in all tests performed, with an IC₅₀ of 1.30 ± 0.05 mg/mL in the DPPH test and an EC₅₀ equal to 36.0 ± 2.5 mg/mL in the FRAP assay. In the phosphor-molybdenum test, EOD results ranged from 39.81 ± 0.7 to 192.1 ± 0.8 mg AAE/g E. EOD was active on E. coli (9.5 ± 0.5 mm), S. aureus (31.0 ± 1.5 mm), C. albicans (20.4 ± 0.5 mm), and S. cerevisiae (28.0 ± 1.0 mm), with MICs ranging from 0.1 mg/mL to 3.3 mg/mL. We found that 1 µL of EOD caused 97.5 ± 5.0% insect mortality after 96 h in the inhalation test and 60.0 ± 8.3% in the ingestion assay. The median lethal concentration (LC₅₀) was 7.8 ± 0.3 μL EO/L, while the effective concentration in the ingestion test (LC₅₀) was 15.0 ± 2.1 μL EO/L. We found that 20 µL of EOD caused a reduction of more than 91% of C. maculatus laid eggs.

LC–DAD–MS Phenolic Characterisation of Six Invasive Plant Species in Croatia and Determination of Their Antimicrobial and Cytotoxic Activity

Invasive plants’ phytochemicals are important for their invasiveness, enabling them to spread in new environments. However, these chemicals could offer many pharmaceutical compounds or active ingredients for herbal preparations. This study provides the first LC–MS phytochemical screening of six invasive alien plant species (IAPS) in the Istria region (Croatia): Ailanthus altissima, Ambrosia artemisiifolia, Conyza canadensis, Dittrichia viscosa, Erigeron annuus, and Xanthium strumarium. The study aims to identify and quantify the phenolic content of their leaf extracts and assess their antimicrobial and cytotoxic potential. A total of 32 species-specific compounds were recorded. Neochlorogenic, chlorogenic, and 5-p-coumaroylquinic acids, quercetin-3-glucoside, and kaempferol hexoside were detected in all the tested IAPS. Hydroxycinnamic acid derivatives were the main components in all the tested IAPS, except in E. annuus, where flavanones dominated with a share of 70%. X. strumarium extract had the best activity against the tested bacteria, with an average MIC value of 0.11 mg/mL, while A. altissima and X. strumarium extracts had the best activity against the tested fungi, with an average MIC value of 0.21 mg/mL in both cases. All the plant extracts studied, except X. strumarium, were less cytotoxic than the positive control. The results provided additional information on the phytochemical properties of IAPS and their potential for use as antimicrobial agents.

Antimicrobial Effects of Inula viscosa Extract on the In Situ Initial Oral Biofilm

Given the undesirable side effects of commercially used mouth rinses that include chemically synthesized antimicrobial compounds such as chlorhexidine, it is essential to discover novel antimicrobial substances based on plant extracts. The aim of this study was to examine the antimicrobial effect of Inula viscosa extract on the initial microbial adhesion in the oral cavity. Individual test splints were manufactured for the participants, on which disinfected bovine enamel samples were attached. After the initial microbial adhesion, the biofilm-covered oral samples were removed and treated with different concentrations (10, 20, and 30 mg/mL) of an I. viscosa extract for 10 min. Positive and negative controls were also sampled. Regarding the microbiological parameters, the colony-forming units (CFU) and vitality testing (live/dead staining) were examined in combination with fluorescence microscopy. An I. viscosa extract with a concentration of 30 mg/mL killed the bacteria of the initial adhesion at a rate of 99.99% (log₁₀ CFU value of 1.837 ± 1.54). Compared to the negative control, no killing effects were determined after treatment with I. viscosa extract at concentrations of 10 mg/mL (log₁₀ CFU value 3.776 ± 0.831; median 3.776) and 20 mg/mL (log₁₀ CFU value 3.725 ± 0.300; median 3.711). The live/dead staining revealed a significant reduction (p < 0.0001) of vital adherent bacteria after treatment with 10 mg/mL of I. viscosa extract. After treatment with an I. viscosa extract with a concentration of 30 mg/mL, no vital bacteria could be detected. For the first time, significant antimicrobial effects on the initial microbial adhesion in in situ oral biofilms were reported for an I. viscosa extract.

Traditional medicinal knowledge of plants used for cancer treatment by communities of mountainous areas of Fez-Meknes-Morocco

Since their existence on earth, humans have used herbal medicine to meet their requirements for medication. The aim of the study: This work refers to a study conducted to carry out an ethnopharmacological survey of medicinal plants used for the treatment of cancer in Fez-Meknes region of Morocco. Material and Methods: To achieve this goal, 300 informants including 237 local people and 63 herbalists. They were requested to fill a survey related questionnaire aiming at the collection of data about the addressed objective. Informants were asked about the vernacular names, parts of medicinal plants used, mode of preparation, route of administration, reference area as well as the ecological distribution. The Relative Frequency of Citation (RFC) and Fidelity Level (FL) were calculated to identify the most effective plants recommended by informants for disease treatment. Results: The findings obtained in the present survey revealed that 94 species belonging to 47 families have been used for cancer treatment in the region of Fez-Meknes. Fruits, leaves, and seeds are the most commonly used plant parts, by the time powder and infusion arethe most common methods used fordrug preparations. Conclusion: This work may contribute towards the society as it provides interesting data on traditional medicinal knowledge of medicinal plantsused to fight cancer.

Not Only a Weed Plant-Biological Activities of Essential Oil and Hydrosol of Dittrichia viscosa (L.) Greuter

With the increasing interest in obtaining biologically active compounds from natural sources, Dittrichia viscosa (L.) Greuter (Asteraceae) came into our focus as a readily available and aromatic wild shrub widely distributed in the Mediterranean region. This work provides a phytochemical profile of D. viscosa in terms of parallel chemical composition in the lipophilic fraction (essential oil) and the water fraction (hydrosol). GC-MS analysis identified 1,8-cineole, caryophyllene oxide, α-terpenyl acetate, and α-muurolol as the major components of the essential oil, while in the hydrosol p-menth-1-en-9-ol, 1,8-cineole, linalool, cis-sabinene hydrate, and α-muurolol were the major volatile components. 3,4-Dihydroxybenzoic acid was found to be the predominant compound in the hydrosol composition by HPLC analysis. The antimicrobial potential of both extracts was evaluated against thirteen opportunistic pathogens associated with common skin and wound infections and emerging food spoilage microorganisms. The antimicrobial activity of the essential oil suggests that the volatiles of D. viscosa could be used as novel antimicrobial agents. The antiproliferative results of D. viscosa volatiles are also new findings, which showed promising activity against three cancer cell lines: HeLa (cervical cancer cell line), HCT116 (human colon cancer cell line), and U2OS (human osteosarcoma cell line). The decrease in GSH level observed in hydrosol-treated HeLa cells suggests oxidative stress as a possible mechanism of the antiproliferative effect of hydrosol on tumor cells. The presented results are also the first report of significant antiphytoviral activity of hydrosol against tobacco mosaic virus (TMV) infection. Based on the results, D. viscosa might have the potential to be used in crop protection, as a natural disinfectant and natural anticancer agent.

Evaluation of cytotoxic and antioxidant potential of Dittrichia viscosa (L.) Greuter used in traditional medicine

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Dittrichia viscosa (L.) Greuter ("Sarı ot, Yapışkan andız otu" in Turkish) is a medicinal plant that has been traditionally used in the Mediterranean area. This plant is used by the local population for the treatment of cancer. Investigation of their biological activities is therefore very important to be supported by scientific basis for traditional use.

AIMS OF THE STUDY

In this study, it is aimed to assess the phytochemical composition, in vitro antioxidant, cytotoxic, and antiproliferative activities of the aqueous and ethanolic extracts obtained from the aerial parts (stems, leaves, flowers) of D. viscosa, collected from two sites in Turkey (Istanbul and Marmaris) against breast and prostate tumor cell lines.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Validated methods were used to evaluate the in vitro antioxidant capacity (DPPH, ABTS, CUPRAC), cytotoxicity (Cell Viability Assay), antiproliferative (Apoptosis assay), and phytochemical compositions. The nepetin (N), 3-O-methylquercetin (Q), and hispidulin (H) in the extracts of D. viscosa were quantified by HPLC and LC-HRMS. Furthermore, in order to control the standards of benefiting from the plant in a healthy way, the contents of some heavy metals were also assessed by ICP-OES in the plant and soil samples as well as the species soil's physical and chemical characteristics.

RESULTS

We have found that heavy metal accumulation in the soil does not exceed the allowable limit value except for the nickel. The results showed that ethanol extraction is an efficient strategy to get NQH molecules with a higher content compared with other extraction techniques. However, using the same extraction method revealed that the amount of NQH molecules in the samples of two different regions were variable. The results suggested that all extracts had a high amount of total phenolic content (12.354-22.184 μg GAE/mg) and total flavonoid content (4.442-17.263 μg QE/g). In the antioxidant assay according to the DPPH method, the aqueous ethanol extracts (IC₅₀; 21.00 μg/mL) showed stronger antioxidant activity than BHT. A significant reduction in cell viability was particularly observed in MDA-MB-231 cells, which were sensitive to ethanolic extracts in Istanbul (12-22%) and in Marmaris (14-15%), while PC3 cell lines were also more sensitive to extracts of the aqueous in Istanbul (16%) and the decoction in Marmaris (12%) after 72 h. Especially, it was observed that Marmaris and Istanbul samples induced the toxicity against PC3 cells.

CONCLUSION

The study supports the medicinal use of D. viscosa as a potential anticancer against breast and prostate cancer cells in vitro and underlines the immense therapeutic potential of the plant.

Phytochemical Profile, Antioxidant Capacity, α-Amylase and α-Glucosidase Inhibitory Potential of Wild Moroccan Inula viscosa (L.) Aiton Leaves

Medicinal plants offer imperative sources of innovative chemical substances with important potential therapeutic effects. Among them, the members of the genus Inula have been widely used in traditional medicine for the treatment of several diseases. The present study investigated the antioxidant (DPPH, ABTS and FRAP assays) and the in vitro anti-hyperglycemic potential of aerial parts of Inula viscosa (L.) Aiton (I. viscosa) extracts through the inhibition of digestive enzymes (α-amylase and α-glucosidase), responsible of the digestion of poly and oligosaccharides. The polyphenolic profile of the Inula viscosa (L.) Aiton EtOAc extract was also investigated using HPLC-DAD/ESI-MS analysis, whereas the volatile composition was elucidated by GC-MS. The chemical analysis resulted in the detection of twenty-one polyphenolic compounds, whereas the volatile profile highlighted the occurrence of forty-eight different compounds. Inula viscosa (L.) Aiton presented values as high as 87.2 ± 0.50 mg GAE/g and 78.6 ± 0.55mg CE/g, for gallic acid and catechin, respectively. The EtOAc extract exhibited the higher antioxidant activity compared to methanol and chloroform extracts in different tests with (IC50 = 0.6 ± 0.03 µg/mL; IC50 = 8.6 ± 0.08 µg/mL; 634.8 mg ± 1.45 AAE/g extract) in DPPH, ABTS and FRAP tests. Moreover, Inula viscosa (L.) Aiton leaves did show an important inhibitory effect against α-amylase and α-glucosidase. On the basis of the results achieved, such a species represents a promising traditional medicine, thanks to its remarkable content of functional bioactive compounds, thus opening new prospects for research and innovative phytopharmaceuticals developments.

Preventive Applications of Polyphenols in Dentistry-A Review

Polyphenols are natural substances that have been shown to provide various health benefits. Antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-carcinogenic effects have been described. At the same time, they inhibit the actions of bacteria, viruses, and fungi. Thus, studies have also examined their effects within the oral cavity. This review provides an overview on the different polyphenols, and their structure and interactions with the tooth surface and the pellicle. In particular, the effects of various tea polyphenols on bioadhesion and erosion have been reviewed. The current research confirms that polyphenols can reduce the growth of cariogenic bacteria. Furthermore, they can decrease the adherence of bacteria to the tooth surface and improve the erosion-protective properties of the acquired enamel pellicle. Tea polyphenols, especially, have the potential to contribute to an oral health-related diet. However, in vitro studies have mainly been conducted. In situ studies and clinical studies need to be extended and supplemented in order to significantly contribute to additive prevention measures in caries prophylaxis.

The Anticancer Effect of Inula viscosa Methanol Extract by miRNAs' Re-regulation: An in vitro Study on Human Malignant Melanoma Cells

Alternative and natural therapies are needed for malignant melanoma (MM), the most deadly skin cancer type due to chemotherapy's limited effect. In the present study, we evaluated the anticancer potentials of Inula viscosa methanol and water extracts (IVM and IVW) on MM cells, A2058 and MeWo, and normal fibroblasts. After the chromatographic and antioxidant activity analysis, their antiproliferative effects were determined with the increasing doses for 24-72 h. IVM induced more cell death in a dose and time-dependent manner in MM cells compared to IVW. This effect was probably due to the higher amount of phenolics in it. IVM significantly induced more apoptotic death in MM cells than fibroblasts (p < 0.01), which was also supported morphologically. IVM also caused cell cycle arrest at G0/G1 and G2/M phases in A2058 and MeWo, respectively, and suppressed the migration ability of MM cells (p < 0.01). Additionally, IVM was found to have significant potential in regulating MM-related miRNAs, upregulating miR-579 and miR-524, and downregulating miR-191 and miR-193, in MM cells (p < 0.05, p < 0.01). As a result, the anticancer effect of IVM via regulating miRNAs' expression has been demonstrated for the first time. Thus, IVM, with these potentials, may be a promising candidate for MM treatment.

Anticancer medicinal plants used by Moroccan people: Ethnobotanical, preclinical, phytochemical and clinical evidence

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Cancer is a major health problem worldwide. Drugs' side effects and high cost of treatment remain the main limitations of conventional therapy. Nowadays, developing new therapeutic strategies is necessary. Therefore, medicinal plants can be used to promote novel, safe, and potent anticancer drugs through their natural compounds.

AIM OF THE STUDY

This review aims to provide scientific evidence related to the anticancer activities of medicinal plants used by Moroccan people as well as approving their efficiency as an alternative cancer therapy.

METHODS

An ethnopharmacological review approach was conducted by analyzing Moroccan published ethnobotanical surveys from 1991 to 2019 and consulting peer-reviewed articles worldwide to investigate the pharmacological, phytochemical, and clinical effects related to the anticancer activities. Plants with anticancer proprieties were classified into four groups: (a) plants only cited as anticancer, (b) plants pharmacologically investigated, (c) plants with bioactive compounds tested as anticancer, and (d) plants clinically investigated.

RESULTS

A total of 103 plant species belonging to 47 botanical families used by Moroccans to treat cancer have been recorded. Aristolochia fontanesii Boiss. & Reut, Marrubium vulgare L., and Allium sativum L. are the most referred species in Morocco. Medicinal plants used for cancer treatment were classified into four groups: 48 species were used traditionally as anticancer (group a), 41 species pharmacologically investigated for their anticancer activities (group b), 32 plants with bioactive compounds tested against cancer (group c), and eight plants were clinically investigated for their anticancer effects (group d). Out of 82 plants' extracts pharmacologically tested (from plants of group b), only 24 ones show a significant cytotoxic effect. A total of seventy-seven compounds are isolated from plants of group (c). However, only six ones were clinically evaluated, and most of them exhibit a beneficial effect on cancerous patients with few side effects.

CONCLUSION

Medicinal plants can be a promising candidate for alternative cancer therapy. Nevertheless, it is critical to increasing the clinical trials to confirm their beneficial effect on patients with cancer. Overall, this review can serve as a database for further studies.

Bazzocchi I, Bekhti K, E. Piñero J, Jiménez IA, Lorenzo-Morales J. Exploring the Anti-Infective Value of Inuloxin A Isolated from Inula viscosa against the Brain-Eating Amoeba (Naegleria fowleri) by Activation of Programmed Cell Death

Primary amoebic meningoencephalitis (PAM), caused by the pathogenic free-living amoeba Naegleria fowleri, is a rare but fatal disease. Nowadays, no fully effective therapy is available to erradicate or prevent this disease. Natural products could constitute a promising source of useful bioactive compounds in drug discovery. The present study is a characterization of main active compounds from the ethanolic extract of Inula viscosa (Asteraceae) leaves against N. fowleri trophozoites. Four compounds (1-4) were successfully identified by spectroscopic techniques, but only inuloxin A displayed a potential antiamoebic activity with an IC₅₀ of 21.27 μM. The specificity of this compound toward the studied strain leads us to analyze the insight into its mechanism of action by performing in vitro assays of programmed cell death markers and to discuss the structure-activity relationship (SAR). The obtained results demonstrated that inuloxin A interferes with various processes leading to membrane damage, mitochondria alteration, chromatin condensation, and ROS accumulation, which highlight features specific to apoptosis. The current findings could be a promising step for developing new effective drugs against PAM.

Chemical composition variability and vascular endothelial growth factor receptors inhibitory activity of Inulaviscosa essential oils from Algeria

Angiogenes is therefore appears to be a complex phenomenon, finely regulated by various activators (pro-angiogenic factors) and inhibitors (anti-angiogenic factors). Among the pro-angiogenic factors, VEGF (Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor) seems to be one of the main players in tumor angiogenesis. It exerts its pro-angiogenic activity by attaching to the surface of receptors with tyrosine kinase activity (VEGFR). The aim of this research was the bioinformatical study of VEGFR inhibition by essential oils of the Inula viscosa.Analyses of essential oils obtained by hydrodistillation from the aerial parts of the plant were performed using GC and GC/MS analysis. We used molecular modeling approaches as molecular mechanics to theoretical investigation VEGF receptors by natural inhibitors.Nineteen compounds were identified, constituting 90.1-98.8% of the total essential oils. The main components of the plants were (E)-nerolidol (15.5-20.2 %), caryophyllene oxide (10.6-18.1%), (E)-Z-farnesyl acetone (13.2-25.1%) and (E)-β-farnesene (1.5-5.6%). Essential oil samples were clustered into two groups according to their chemical compositions. The molecular dynamics study was conducted for the best inhibitors. A few key residues were identified at the binding site of VEGFR. The Pharmacokinetics was justified by means of lipophilicity and high coefficient of skin permeability. The in silico evaluation of ADME revealed that L19 has high absorption. The essential oil of I. viscosa presents a significant variability. This study revealed that (E)-Z-Farnesylacetone is a functional inhibitor of VEGF activities and subsequently can be the best inhibitors candidate to be scrutinized in vivo and in vitro.Communicated by Ramaswamy H. Sarma.

New perspectives of purple starthistle (Centaurea calcitrapa) leaf extracts: phytochemical analysis, cytotoxicity and antimicrobial activity

Ethnobotanical and ethnopharmacological studies of many Centaurea species indicated their potential in folk medicine so far. However, investigations of different Centaurea calcitrapa L. extracts in terms of cytotoxicity and antimicrobial activity against phytopathogens are generally scarce. The phenolic profile and broad antimicrobial activity (especially towards bacterial phytopathogens) of methanol (MeOH), 70% ethanol (EtOH), ethyl-acetate (EtOAc), 50% acetone (Me₂CO) and dichloromethane: methanol (DCM: MeOH, 1: 1) extracts of C. calcitrapa leaves and their potential toxicity on MRC-5 cell line were investigated for the first time. A total of 55 phenolic compounds were identified: 30 phenolic acids and their derivatives, 25 flavonoid glycosides and aglycones. This is also the first report of the presence of centaureidin, jaceidin, kaempferide, nepetin, flavonoid glycosides, phenolic acids and their esters in C. calcitrapa extracts. The best results were obtained with EtOAc extract with lowest MIC values expressed in µg/mL ranging from 13 to 25, while methicillin resistant Staphylococcus aureus was the most susceptible strain. The most susceptible phytopathogens were Pseudomonas syringae pv. syringae, Xanthomonas campestris pv. campestris and Agrobacterium tumefaciens. The highest cytotoxicity was recorded for EtOAc and Me₂CO extracts with the lowest relative and absolute IC₅₀ values between 88 and 102 µg/mL, while EtOH extract was the least toxic with predicted relative IC₅₀ value of 1578 µg/mL. Our results indicate that all tested extracts at concentration considered as non-toxic can be one of great importance in combat towards phytopathogenic and human pathogenic strains, as well as natural sources of antimicrobials.

Achyrocline satureioides compounds, achyrobichalcone and 3-O-methylquercetin, induce mitochondrial dysfunction and apoptosis in human breast cancer cell lines

Natural products are a valuable source of new molecules and are important for drug discovery. Many chemotherapeutics currently in clinical use were originated from natural sources and are effective cytotoxic agents. In this study, we investigated the cytotoxic and pro-apoptotic effects of achyrobichalcone (ACB) and 3-O-methylquercetin (3OMQ), two novel compounds isolated from the Achyrocline satureioides plant. Because extracts from this plant have been shown to have anticancer activity in vitro, we evaluated ACB and 3OMQ using a human breast cancer cell line, MDA-MB-231, and a nontumorigenic human breast epithelial cell line, MCF-12A. We found that ACB demonstrates cytotoxic effects on MDA-MB-231 cells, but not MCF-12A cells. 3OMQ also demonstrated cytotoxic effects on MDA-MB-231 cells, but with lower selectivity compared to treated MCF-12A cells. Cell death by both compounds was associated with caspase-9 and caspase-3/7 activation. Using high-resolution respirometry, we found that ACB and 3OMQ were able to cause acute mitochondrial dysfunction in MDA-MB-231-treated cells. These results suggest that apoptosis in MDA-MB-231 cells is induced through the activation of the mitochondrial-dependent pathway. Collectively, these findings suggest that ACB is a strong candidate for further anticancer in vivo tests.

Phytochemical screening, metabolite profiling and enhanced antimicrobial activities of microalgal crude extracts in co-application with silver nanoparticle

Background

Microalgae is one of the major sources of natural compounds with antimicrobial activity. The metabolite profiling of the extracts could identify the bioactive compounds based on methanol (MET), ethanol (ETH), chloroform (CHL), hexane (HEX) and water (W) solvent systems. The microalgal crude extracts in co-application with silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) had enhanced antimicrobial activity with potential to overcome the global problem of microbial antibiotic resistance.

Results

Chlorella sp. exhibited the highest lipid, N. oculata the highest total saturated fatty acids (TSFA), and T. suecica the highest mono-unsaturated (MUFA) and poly-unsaturated fatty acids (PUFA). The highest carbohydrate, protein and total phenolics contents (TPCs) were attained by N. oculata. The highest total flavonoids contents (TFCs), and chlorophyll a and b were in T. suecica, while comparable level of carotenoids were found in all species. For high-performance thin-layer chromatography (HPTLC) analyses, the eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) with high peaks were detected in T. suecica-HEX and N. oculata-CHL; and β-carotene in Chlorella sp.-ETH. The gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC–MS) analyses showed high 13-docosenamide (Z)- in T. suecica-HEX; phytol in N. oculata-HEX; and neophytadiene in Chlorella sp.-ETH. The AgNPs–MCEs–MET and HEX at the 1.5:1 ratios exhibited strong activities against Bacillus subtilis, Streptococcus uberis, and Salmonella sp.; and the AgNPs–T. suecica-HEX and MET and AgNPs–Chlorella sp.-HEX at the 1.5:1 ratios exhibited activities against Klebsiella pneumoniae.

Conclusion

Different bioactive components were detected in the MCEs based on the HPTLC and GC–MS analyses. Significant antimicrobial activities against the pathogenic microbes were demonstrated by the synergistic effects of the MCEs in co-application with the AgNPs. This could be beneficial in the fight against sensitive and multidrug-resistant bacteria.

Terfezia boudieri: A Desert Truffle With Anticancer and Immunomodulatory Activities

Desert truffles have high nutritional value and grow wild in the Mediterranean basin and Western Asia. Although, many studies were performed to evaluate truffles nutritious values and phytochemical composition, studies are limited to evaluate their anticancer and/ or immunomodulatory effects. Our study was conducted to evaluate the anticancer and immunomodulatory effects of Terfezia boudieri (desert truffle). Different solvent extracts were prepared from the truffle and MTT assay was used to measure their anticancer activity against cancer cell lines (T47D, MCF-7, MDA-MB231, HCT-116, and Hela). Total phenolic content in each extract was determined by using Folin-Ciocalteu reagent and qualitative phytochemical screening was performed using standard methods. The degree of apoptosis induction (using caspase 3 assay) and vascular endothelial growth factor expression were detected using standard kits. Also, ELISA was used to measure levels of IFN-γ, IL-2, IL-4, and IL-10 secreted by splenocytes after treatment with the extracts. The effect of the extracts on splenocytes proliferation was measured using MTT assay. Macrophage function was evaluated using nitro blue tetrazolium assay and pinocytosis function was evaluated using neutral red method. Terpenoids, phytosterols, and carbohydrates were present in all the solvent extracts, while tannins, alkaloids and flavonoids were detected only in aqueous/methanol and aqueous extracts. The highest total phenolic content was observed in aqueous and aqueous methanol extracts. The growth of cancer cell lines was inhibited by T. boudieri extracts in a dose dependent manner. N-hexane extract was the most potent against most cell lines. Aqueous/methanol extract showed high apoptosis induction and angiogenesis suppression effects. An increase in TH1 cytokines (IFN-γ, IL-2) level and a decrease in TH2 cytokine (IL-4) level were evident after lymphocytes stimulation by aqueous/methanol, n-hexane and ethyl acetate extracts of T. boudieri. Ethyl acetate extract of T. boudieri were the most potent extracts to stimulate lymphocytes proliferation while all other extracts showed moderate stimulation. Aqueous/methanol extract was the most active extract to stimulate phagocytosis. Ethyl acetate extract was the most active extract to stimulate pinocytosis. The use of T. boudieri provides variable health benefits. N-hexane, ethyl acetate, and aqueous/methanol extracts exhibited anticancer activities and are potent stimulators of innate and acquired immunity. Further testing is needed to identify the biologically active compounds and detect them quantitatively using GC-MS analysis.

3, 3-Dimethylquercetin Inhibits the Proliferation of Human Colon Cancer RKO Cells through Inducing G2/M Cell Cycle Arrest and Apoptosis

Background:

Our previous study successfully identified that 3,3-Dimethylquercetin (DMQ) acted as a potent anticancer agent against human colon cancer cell lines RKO. Thus, this study was conducted to investigate the underlying mechanism by which DMQ displayed inhibitory activity in RKO cells.

Methods:

Flow cytometry was used to evaluate the effect of DMQ on the cell cycle arrest, as well as the mitochondrial membrane potential in RKO cells. DAPI staining and DNA fragmentation ladder assays were performed to assess the apoptosis inducing activity of DMQ. Furthermore, western blot analysis was conducted to examine the expression of related proteins responsible for the cell cycle arrest and apoptosis.

Results:

Treatment with DMQ caused a significant increase in the fraction of G2/M cells, and induced remarkable apoptosis. Furthermore, western blot analysis showed that DMQ arrested cells at G2/M checkpoint by down-regulation of cyclin B1, cdc2 and cdc25c and up-regulation of p21, and induced cell apoptosis via affecting the ratio of Bax/Bcl-2, causing loss of the mitochondrial membrane potential and enhancing the expression of cleaved caspase-9 (C-caspase-9) and cleaved caspase-3 (C-caspase-3).

Conclusion:

These data showed that DMQ could suppress RKO cell growth by arresting RKO cells at G2/M checkpoint and inducing mitochondria-dependent cell apoptosis. Our findings shed light on the potential use of DMQ as a chemotherapeutic agent for CRC.

Semi-preparative isolation and purification of phenolic compounds from Achyrocline satureioides (Lam) D.C. by high-performance counter-current chromatography

INTRODUCTION

Phenolic compounds present in Achyrocline satureioides are known to have therapeutic benefits like antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antitumour properties. The main polyphenols present in the plant are quercetin (QCT), luteolin (LUT), 3-O-methylquercetin (3OMQ), and achyrobichalcone (ACB). However, the effective isolation and purification of these compounds from A. satureioides inflorescences are not an easy task.

OBJECTIVE

To develop an efficient high-performance counter-current chromatography (HPCCC) method for quick separation and purification of naturally occurring phenolic compounds from the extract of A. satureioides.

METHODOLOGY

A two-step HPCCC semi-preparative isolation method was developed using a solvent system composed of n-hexane/ethyl acetate/methanol/water (0.8:1.0:0.8:1.0) and dichloromethane/methanol/water (3.5:3.5:2.5).

RESULTS

The HPCCC method was used to obtain two fractions. The first fraction (F₁ ) contained high levels of ACB, among other constituents, while the second fraction (F₂ ) contained mostly QCT, LUT, and 3OMQ. Besides the high ACB content, F₁ contained three other flavonoid-aglycones (kaempferol, 97.3%; isokaempferide, 92.4%; and 3,3'-di-O-methylquercetin, 95.2%) identified by an ultra-performance liquid chromatography system coupled to a quadrupole time-of-flight with high-definition mass spectrometry (UPLC-QTOF/HDMS) and nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) analysis. Purity levels of ACB, 3OMQ, QCT, and LUT were 98.0, 97.0, 97.5, and 90.2%, respectively.

CONCLUSION

This is the first time that high purity ACB and six other flavonoids were obtained from A. satureioides inflorescences by HPCCC. These excellent results reveal the potential and versatility of HPCCC as a technique to produce different types of products from this plant species on a semi-preparative scale: enriched fractions, new metabolites, or high purity compounds.

A nutraceutical extract from Inula viscosa leaves: UHPLC-HR-MS/MS based polyphenol profile, and antioxidant and cytotoxic activities

Nowadays, advanced extraction techniques and highly sensitive metabolic profiling methods are effectively employed to get new information on plant chemical constituents. Among them wild medicinal plants or their parts, with large and ancient use in folk medicine, are investigated for their potential functional use and cultivation. In this context, Inula viscosa leaves engaged our attention. A simple experimental design, based on Soxhlet extraction and chromatographic fractionation, allowed us to obtain the investigated polyphenol fraction (IvE). UHPLC-HRMS analyses revealed shikimoyl depsides of caffeic acid and unusual dihydrobenzofuran lignans as main secondary metabolites. These compounds, together with cinchonain-type phenols, and hydroxycinnamoyl flavonol glycosides, are reported for the first time in inula. Overall, forty-three secondary metabolites were identified. The extract exerted a remarkable antiradical activity towards DPPH^• and ABTS^+•. Furthermore, it was able to inhibit cell viability and mitochondrial redox activity of neuroblastoma, hepatoblastoma and colon carcinoma cells, whereas it did not affect cell density of HaCaT cells immortalized human keratinocytes. As detected by the oxidant-sensing probe 2′,7′-dichlorodihydrofluorescein diacetate, the inhibitory responses seemed to be related to IvE-induced increase of intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS). The obtained results highlighted that inula leaves, nowadays even undervalued and unexplored, could be considered a renewable source of nutraceutical compounds.

Antimicrobial, anticancer, and antioxidant compounds from Premna resinosa growing in Saudi Arabia

CONTEXT

Premna resinosa (Hochst.) Schauer (Lamiaceae) is used in many places to treat bronchitis, respiratory illness and convulsions of the rib cage.

OBJECTIVE

This study evaluates the anticancer, antimicrobial and antioxidant activities of P. resinosa, and isolates some responsible constituents.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The methanol extract of P. resinosa aerial parts and its fractions (n-hexane, dichloromethane, ethyl acetate and n-butanol) were tested. Antimicrobial activity was tested using microdilution method against three Gram-positive and four Gram-negative bacteria. The tested concentrations ranged from 4000 to 7.8 μg/mL and MIC values were determined after 24 h incubation. Anticancer activity was evaluated against three human cancer cell lines (Daoy, HepG2 and SK-MEL28) using MTT assay. Antioxidant activity was investigated by DPPH scavenging method and β-carotene-linoleic acid assay.

RESULTS

The greatest antimicrobial activity was exhibited by n-hexane fraction (MIC 10 μg/mL) against Staphylococcus aureus, Enterococcus faecalis, and Shigella flexneri. The n-hexane fraction induced the greatest cytotoxic activity against Daoy, HepG2, and SK-MEL28 cell lines with IC₅₀ values of 9.0, 8.5 and 13.2, respectively. Moreover, the dichloromethane and ethyl acetate fractions showed the highest antioxidant potential. A bioassay-guided fractionation led to the isolation and characterization of seven compounds for the first time, namely, quercetin (1), 3-methoxy quercetin (2), kaempferol (3), 3-methoxy kaempferol (4), myricetin 3,7,3'-trimethyl ether (5), lupeol (6), and stigmasterol (7).

CONCLUSION

Our results indicate that P. resinosa is a source for antimicrobial and cytotoxic compounds. However, further work is required to isolate other active principles and to determine the mechanism of action.

Total phenolic, flavonoid, alkaloid and iridoid content and preventive effect of Lider-7-tang on lipopolysaccharide-induced acute lung injury in rats

Lider-7-tang, a medicine used for the treatment of respiratory diseases especially pneumonia and fever in Mongolian Traditional Medicine, was selected for this phytochemical and pharmacological study. The objectives of the study were to determine total biological active substances and analyze the effects of Lider-7-tang treatment in rats with acute lung injury (ALI). Quantitative determination of the total active constituents (phenolic, flavonoid, iridoid and alkaloid) of the methanol extract of Lider-7-tang was performed using Folin-Ciocalteu reagent, aluminum chloride reagent, Trim-Hill reagent, and Bromocresol green reagent, respectively. A total of fifty 8-10-week-old male Wistar rats (200-240 g) were randomized into three groups: control group, lipopolysaccharide (LPS) group (7.5 mg/kg) and LPS+Lider-7 group (90 mg/kg Lider-7-tang before LPS administration). The total content of alkaloids was 0.2±0.043%, total phenols 7.8±0.67%, flavonoids 3.12±0.206%, and iridoids 0.308±0.0095%. This study also evaluated the effects of Lider-7 on levels of inflammatory mediators by observing histopathological features associated with LPS-induced ALI. The rats pretreated with Lider-7 had significantly lower levels of IL-6 (at 3 and 6 h), and TNF-α (at 3, 6, 9, and 12 h). The current study showed that Lider-7 exerted a preventive effect against LPS-induced ALI, which appeared to be mediated by inhibiting the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines.

Medicinal importance, pharmacological activities, and analytical aspects of hispidulin: A concise report

Herbal medicines have been played an important role in the human civilization since very ancient time as a food, cloth, medicine and other aspects. Some of the important drugs in the modern medicine were derived from the natural sources such as aspirin, digitalis, quinine, vincristine, vinblastine etc. Hispidulin (4', 5, 7-trihydroxy-6-methoxyflavone) is a flavones derivative found in plant such as Grindelia argentina, Arrabidaea chica, Saussurea involucrate, Crossostephium chinense, Artemisia and Salvia species. Hispidulin have antioxidant, antifungal, anti-inflammatory, antimutagenic, and antineoplastic properties. So far, various analytical methods have been investigated and developed for detection of hispidulin in the plant materials. Productions of hispidulin through different tissue culture techniques have been also investigated. Present review summarized medicinal uses, pharmacological activities and analytical aspects of hispidulin. From the above mentioned aspects, we can conclude that, this review will be helpful to the researcher in the field of natural product for the development of novel molecule for the treatment of different disorders.

The use of medicinal herbs in gynecological and pregnancy-related disorders by Jordanian women: a review of folkloric practice vs. evidence-based pharmacology

Context National statistical reports in Jordan indicate a decrease in the total fertility rate along with a parallel increase in contraceptive use. The folkloric use of medicinal herbs in gynecological disorders has been growing in Jordan, despite of deficient reports on the evidence-based safety and efficacy of these practices. Objective The aim of this comprehensive article is to review medicinal plants with claimed ethnonpharmacological usage in various gynecological and pregnancy-related issues in Jordan, and to assess their evidence-based pharmacological studies as well as their phytochemistry. Methods The published literature was surveyed using Google Scholar entering the terms "ethnopharmacology AND Jordan AND infertility AND gynecology OR gestation". We included ethnopharmacological surveys in Jordan with available full-text. Results Twelve articles were reviewed. Plant species which are commonly used for female gynecological issues such as Artemisia monosperma Del. and A. herba-alba Asso. (Asteraceae) have been found to exert an antifertility effect. Ricinus communis L. (Euphorbiaceae) and Citrullus colocynthis (L.) Schrad. (Cucurbitaceae) had antifertility effects in male rats, but Nigella sativa oil L. (Ranunculaceae) and Cinnamon zeylanicum J. Presl (Lauraceae) were found to enhance it. Conclusion Using plants for gynecological disorders is a common practice in Jordan. Many of them, whether utilised for gynecological or non-gynecological conditions equally, were found to have detrimental effects on female or male fertility. Thus, couples planning pregnancy should be discouraged from the consumption of these herbs. Further local studies are warranted to confirm the appreciable beneficial pharmacological effects and safety of these plants.

Effect of Inula viscosa on the pellicle's protective properties and initial bioadhesion in-situ

OBJECTIVES

The present in situ study investigated the effect of Inula viscosa tea on the pellicle's acid protective properties and on initial oral biofilm formation.

DESIGN

Biofilm formation was performed on bovine enamel slabs on individual maxillary splints. Following 1min of pellicle formation, eight subjects rinsed for 10min with Inula viscosa tea and the splints remained for 8h intraorally. Samples carried after 1-min rinsing with CHX (0.2%) or without rinse served as controls. BacLight™ staining, 4',6-diamidino-2-phenylindole (DAPI)-staining and fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) were used for fluorescence microscopic detection of adherent bacteria. For investigation of acid protective properties, three subjects rinsed for 10min with Inula viscosa tea after 1min pellicle formation and kept the splints intraorally for further 19min. Physiological 30-min pellicles and native enamel samples served as controls. After HCl incubation of the samples ex-vivo over 120s (pH 2.0, 2.3, 3.0) calcium- and phosphate release were quantified photometrically. Potential influences on the pellicle's ultrastructure by Inula viscosa tea were evaluated by transmission electron microscopy (TEM).

RESULTS

Application of Inula viscosa tea yielded a significant reduction of adherent bacteria on all enamel samples as detected by fluorescence microscopy. For calcium- and phosphate release no significant effect was recorded. TEM investigation indicated a modification of the pellicle's ultrastructure, but no enhanced protection against erosive noxae.

CONCLUSION

Rinsing with Inula viscosa tea influences the bacterial colonization on enamel in situ over 8h but has no impact on acid protective properties of the pellicle.

Inula Viscosa Extracts Induces Telomere Shortening and Apoptosis in Cancer Cells and Overcome Drug Resistance

Telomerase is activated in human papillomavirus (HPV) positive cervical cancer and targeting telomeres offers a novel anticancer therapeutic strategy. In this study, the telomere targeting properties, the cytotoxic as well as the pro-apoptotic effects of hexane (IV-HE) and dichloromethane (IV-DF) fractions from Inula viscosa L. extracts were investigated on human cervical HeLa and SiHa cancer cells. Our data demonstrate that IV-HE and IV-DF extracts were able to inhibit cell growth in HeLa and SiHa cells in a dose-dependent manner and studied resistant cell lines exhibited a resistance factor less than 2 when treated with the extracts. IV-HE and IV-DF extracts were able to inhibit telomerase activity and to induce telomere shortening as shown by telomeric repeat amplification protocol and TTAGGG telomere length assay, respectively. The sensitivity of fibroblasts to the extracts was increased when telomerase was expressed. Finally, IV-HE and IV-DF were able to induce apoptosis as evidenced by an increase in annexin-V labeling and caspase-3 activity. This study provides the first evidence that the IV-HE and IV-DF extracts from Inula viscosa L. target telomeres induce apoptosis and overcome drug resistance in tumor cells. Future studies will focus on the identification of the molecules involved in the anticancer activity.

Docking studies of flavonoid compounds as inhibitors of β-ketoacyl acyl carrier protein synthase I (Kas I) of Escherichia coli

Escherichia coli is one of the most frequent causes of many common bacterial infections, including cholecystitis, bacteremia, cholangitis, urinary tract infection (UTI), traveler's diarrhea and other clinical infections such as neonatal meningitis and pneumonia. The fatty acid biosynthesis is essential for the bacterial viability and growth. There are three types of β-ketoacyl acyl carrier protein synthase (KAS) which are important for overcoming the bacterial resistance problem. β-ketoacyl acyl carrier protein synthase I (KAS I) is member of the condensing enzyme family, which is a key catalyst in bacterial fatty acid biosynthesis, and thus an attractive target for novel antibioticsis related to the elongation of unsaturated fatty acids in bacterial fatty acid synthesis and can be a good therapeutic target of designing novel antibiotics. In this report, we performed docking study of E. coli (KAS I) and 50 flavonoids. Out of these 50 flavonoids, there are two compounds, genistein and isorhamnetin, that showed the superior binding energy while fully satisfying the conditions of drug likeliness. The predicted binding energy of genistein and isorhamnetin toward KAS I are -135.76kcal/mol and -132.42kcal/mol, respectively. These energies favorably compare to the biding energy of known drugs thiolactomicin and cerulenin that are -90.26kcal/mol and -99.64kcal/mol, respectively. The method used was docking with the selected E. coli (KAS I-PDB ID-1FJ4) using iGemdock. This was also found to obey the Lipinski's guidelines of five and to show the drug likeliness and bioavailability.

1H NMR based metabolic profiling of eleven Algerian aromatic plants and evaluation of their antioxidant and cytotoxic properties

Eleven Algerian medicinal and aromatic plants (Aloysia triphylla, Apium graveolens, Coriandrum sativum, Laurus nobilis, Lavandula officinalis, Marrubium vulgare, Mentha spicata, Inula viscosa, Petroselinum crispum, Salvia officinalis, and Thymus vulgaris) were selected and their hydroalcoholic extracts were screened for their antiradical and antioxidant properties in cell-free systems. In order to identify the main metabolites constituting the extracts, ¹H NMR-based metabolic profiling was applied. Data obtained emphasized the antiradical properties of T. vulgaris, M. spicata and L. nobilis extracts (RACI 1.37, 0.97 and 0.93, respectively), whereas parsley was the less active as antioxidant (RACI -1.26). When the cytotoxic effects of low and antioxidant doses of each extract were evaluated towards SK-N-BE(2)C neuronal and HepG2 hepatic cell lines, it was observed that all the extracts weakly affected the metabolic redox activity of the tested cell lines. Overall, data strongly plead in favor of the use of these plants as potential food additives in replacement of synthetic compounds.

HPLC-SPE-NMR characterization of major metabolites in Salvia fruticosa Mill. extract with antifungal potential: relevance of carnosic acid, carnosol, and hispidulin

Plant pathogenic fungi are considered of significant economic importance for adversely affecting both quantitatively and qualitatively fresh and processed produce. Extracts of Salvia fruticosa were initially screened for their antifungal activity, and the ethyl acetate fraction, being the most active, was further analyzed using HPLC-SPE-NMR hyphenation. The methoxylated flavones hispidulin, salvigenin, and cirsimaritin and the diterpenes carnosic acid, carnosol, and 12-methoxycarnosic acid were identified as the major components of the extract. In addition, the concentration levels of all identified components were determined using q-NMR. The antifungal activity of the crude extract and selected phytochemicals was estimated against the fungal species Aspergillus tubingensis, Botrytis cinerea, and Penicillium digitatum. The estimated MIC and MFC values of the ethyl acetate extract of S. fruticosa, as well as three of its major constituents, carnosic acid, carnosol, and hispidulin, support their antifungal activity, especially against B. cinerea and P. digitatum, suggesting their potential use in food and agricultural systems.

Cytotoxicity of dietary flavonoids on different human cancer types

Flavonoids are ubiquitous in nature. They are also in food, providing an essential link between diet and prevention of chronic diseases including cancer. Anticancer effects of these polyphenols depend on several factors: Their chemical structure and concentration, and also on the type of cancer. Malignant cells from different tissues reveal somewhat different sensitivity toward flavonoids and, therefore, the preferences of the most common dietary flavonoids to various human cancer types are analyzed in this review. While luteolin and kaempferol can be considered as promising candidate agents for treatment of gastric and ovarian cancers, respectively, apigenin, chrysin, and luteolin have good perspectives as potent antitumor agents for cervical cancer; cells from main sites of flavonoid metabolism (colon and liver) reveal rather large fluctuations in anticancer activity probably due to exposure to various metabolites with different activities. Anticancer effect of flavonoids toward blood cancer cells depend on their myeloid, lymphoid, or erythroid origin; cytotoxic effects of flavonoids on breast and prostate cancer cells are highly related to the expression of hormone receptors. Different flavonoids are often preferentially present in certain food items, and knowledge about the malignant tissue-specific anticancer effects of flavonoids could be purposely applied both in chemoprevention as well as in cancer treatment.

Anti-tumor activity of safranal against neuroblastoma cells

Objective:

Safranal (2,6,6-trimethyl-1,3-cyclohexadiene-1-carboxaldehyde, C10H14O) is an active ingredient in the saffron, which is used in traditional medicine, and also, the biological activity of saffron in anti-cancer is in development. It has been reported to have anti-oxidant effects, but its anti-tumor effects remain uncertain. The aim of this study was to evaluate effects of safranal on anti-tumor on neuroblastoma cells.

Materials and Methods:

Neuroblastoma cells were cultured and exposed to safranal (0, 10, 15, 20, 50 μg/ml). Cell proliferation was examined using the 3-(4, 5-dimethyl thiazol-2-yl)-2, 5-diphenyl tetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay. Apoptotic cells, cell cycle distribution, and sub-G1 fraction were analyzed using flow cytometric analysis after propidium iodide staining.

Results:

Safranal inhibited the growth of malignant cells in a dose-and time-dependent manner. The IC (50) values against the neuroblastoma cell line were determined as 11.1 and 23.3 μg/ml after 24 and 48 h, respectively. Safranal induced a sub-G1 peak in the flow cytometry histogram of treated cells compared to control cells indicating that apoptotic cell death is involved in safranal toxicity.

Conclusions:

Our pre-clinical study demonstrated a neuroblastoma cell line to be highly sensitive to safranal-mediated growth inhibition and apoptotic cell death. Although the molecular mechanisms of safranal action are not yet clearly understood, it appears to have potential as a therapeutic agent.

High-level antimicrobial efficacy of representative Mediterranean natural plant extracts against oral microorganisms

Nature is an unexplored reservoir of novel phytopharmaceuticals. Since biofilm-related oral diseases often correlate with antibiotic resistance, plant-derived antimicrobial agents could enhance existing treatment options. Therefore, the rationale of the present report was to examine the antimicrobial impact of Mediterranean natural extracts on oral microorganisms. Five different extracts from Olea europaea, mastic gum, and Inula viscosa were tested against ten bacteria and one Candida albicans strain. The extraction protocols were conducted according to established experimental procedures. Two antimicrobial assays—the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) assay and the minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) assay—were applied. The screened extracts were found to be active against each of the tested microorganisms. O. europaea presented MIC and MBC ranges of 0.07–10.00 mg mL⁻¹ and 0.60–10.00 mg mL⁻¹, respectively. The mean MBC values for mastic gum and I. viscosa were 0.07–10.00 mg mL⁻¹ and 0.15–10.00 mg mL⁻¹, respectively. Extracts were less effective against C. albicans and exerted bactericidal effects at a concentration range of 0.07–5.00 mg mL⁻¹ on strict anaerobic bacteria (Porphyromonas gingivalis, Prevotella intermedia, Fusobacterium nucleatum, and Parvimonas micra). Ethyl acetate I. viscosa extract and total mastic extract showed considerable antimicrobial activity against oral microorganisms and could therefore be considered as alternative natural anti-infectious agents.

The genus Inula and their metabolites: from ethnopharmacological to medicinal uses

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

The genus Inula comprises more than one hundred species widespread in temperate regions of Europe and Asia. Uses of this genus as herbal medicines have been first recorded by the Greek and Roman ancient physicians. In the Chinese Pharmacopoeia, from the 20 Inula spp. distributed in China, three are used as Traditional Chinese medicines, named Tumuxiang, Xuanfuhua and Jinfeicao. These medicines are used as expectorants, antitussives, diaphoretics, antiemetics, and bactericides. Moreover, Inula helenium L. which is mentioned in Minoan, Mycenaean, Egyptian/Assyrian pharmacotherapy and Chilandar Medical Codex, is good to treat neoplasm, wound, freckles and dandruff. Many other Inula spp. are used in Ayurvedic and Tibetan traditional medicinal systems for the treatment of diseases such as bronchitis, diabetes, fever, hypertension and several types of inflammation. This review is a critical evaluation of the published data on the more relevant ethnopharmacological and medicinal uses of Inula spp. and on their metabolites biological activities. This study allows the identification of the ethnopharmacological knowledge of this genus and will provide insight into the emerging pharmacological applications of Inula spp. facilitating the prioritirization of future investigations. The corroboration of the ethnopharmacological applications described in the literature with proved biological activities of Inula spp. secondary metabolites will also be explored.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The major scientific databases including ScienceDirect, Medline, Scopus and Web of Science were queried for information on the genus Inula using various keyword combinations, more than 180 papers and patents related to the genus Inula were consulted. The International Plant Name Index was also used to confirm the species names.

RESULTS

Although the benefits of Inula spp. are known for centuries, there are insufficient scientific studies to certify it. Most of the patents are registered by Chinese researchers, proving the traditional use of these plants in their country. Although a total of sixteen Inula species were reported in the literature to have ethnopharmacological applications, the species Inula cappa (Buch.-Ham. ex D.Don) DC., Inula racemosa Hook.f., Inula viscosa (L.) Aiton [actually the accepted name is Dittrichia viscosa (L.) Greuter], Inula helenium, Inula britannica L. and Inula japonica Thunb. are the most frequently cited ones since their ethnopharmacological applications are vast. They are used to treat a large spectrum of disorders, mainly respiratory, digestive, inflammatory, dermatological, cancer and microbial diseases. Fifteen Inula spp. crude extracts were investigated and showed interesting biological activities. From these, only 7 involved extracts of the reported spp. used in traditional medicine and 6 of these were studied to isolate the bioactive compounds. Furthermore, 90 bioactive compounds were isolated from 16 Inula spp. The characteristic compounds of the genus, sesquiterpene lactones, are involved in a network of biological effects, and in consequence, the majority of the experimental studies are focused on these products, especially on their cytotoxic and anti-inflammatory activities. The review shows the chemical composition of the genus Inula and presents the pharmacological effects proved by in vitro and in vivo experiments, namely the cytotoxic, anti-inflammatory (with focus on nitric oxide, arachidonic acid and NF-κB pathways), antimicrobial, antidiabetic and insecticidal activities.

CONCLUSIONS

Although there are ca. 100 species in the genus Inula, only a few species have been investigated so far. Eight of the sixteen Inula spp. with ethnopharmacological application had been subjected to biological evaluations and/or phytochemical studies. Despite Inula royleana DC. and Inula obtusifolia A. Kerner are being used in traditional medicine, as far as we are aware, these species were not subjected to phytochemical or pharmacological studies. The biological activities exhibited by the compounds isolated from Inula spp., mainly anti-inflammatory and cytotoxic, support some of the described ethnopharmacological applications. Sesquiterpene lactone derivatives were identified as the most studied class, being britannilactone derivatives the most active ones and present high potential as anti-inflammatory drugs, although, their pharmacological effects, dose-response relationship and toxicological investigations to assess potential for acute or chronic adverse effects should be further investigated. The experimental results are promising, but the precise mechanism of action, the compound or extract toxicity, and the dose to be administrated for an optimal effect need to be investigated. Also human trials (some preclinical studies proved to be remarkable) should be further investigated. The genus Inula comprises species useful not only in medicine but also in other domains which makes it a high value-added plant.