Potential anti-inflammatory effects of the hydrophilic fraction of pomegranate (Punica granatum L.) seed oil on breast cancer cell lines

Pomegranate Extracts as Dual Regulators of Angiogenesis: A Systematic Review of Preclinical Evidence in Cancer and Chronic Wound Healing

Angiogenesis plays a critical role in both tumor progression and wound healing. This systematic review investigates the effect of pomegranate (Punica granatum, PG) extracts as both anti- and pro-angiogenic agents in preclinical models of cancer and chronic wound healing (CWH), respectively. Following PRISMA guidelines, 14 studies (10 cancer, 4 CWH) were identified from PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar databases. In cancer models, PG extracts (juice, peel extract, seed oil) reduced vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) expression, and endothelial tube formation across multiple cancer types, with concomitant decrease in matrix metalloproteinases and inflammatory mediators. Conversely, in CWH models, topical PG peel extract applications enhanced VEGF expression and wound closure in diabetic and burn injuries. This dual angiogenic effect appears mechanistically linked to peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor signaling pathways and synergistic interactions among PG polyphenols, particularly ellagitannins. Assessment of study quality revealed generally low risk of bias across in vitro studies, while animal studies demonstrated variable methodological rigor. Despite promising preclinical evidence, standardization of extraction methods, exploration of molecular mechanisms, and translation to clinical investigations remain critical research priorities. This comprehensive analysis validates PG extracts as a promising therapeutic strategy for both inhibiting pathological angiogenesis in cancer and promoting beneficial angiogenesis in CWH.

Antiangiogenic Potential of Pomegranate Extracts

Pomegranate (Punica granatum L.) has long been recognised for its rich antioxidant profile and potential health benefits. Recent research has expanded its therapeutic potential to include antiangiogenic properties, which are crucial for inhibiting the growth of tumours and other pathological conditions involving aberrant blood vessel formation. This review consolidates current findings on the antiangiogenic effects of pomegranate extracts. We explore the impact of pomegranate polyphenols, including ellagic acid, punicalagin, anthocyanins, punicic acid and bioactive polysaccharides on key angiogenesis-related pathways and endothelial cell function. Emphasis is placed on the effects of these extracts as phytocomplexes rather than isolated compounds. Additionally, we discuss the use of pomegranate by-products, such as peels and seeds, in the preparation of extracts within a green chemistry and circular economy framework, highlighting their value in enhancing extract efficacy and sustainability. By primarily reviewing in vitro and in vivo preclinical studies, we assess how these extracts modulate angiogenesis across various disease models and explore their potential as adjunctive therapies for cancer and other angiogenesis-driven disorders. This review also identifies existing knowledge gaps and proposes future research directions to fully elucidate the clinical utility of pomegranate extracts in therapeutic applications.

The Effect of Pomegranate Peel Extract on the Oxidative and Inflammatory Status in the Spleens of Rats with Metabolic Syndrome

Polyphenols have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties and maintain the immune system in balance; therefore, the aim of the study was to investigate the effect of polyphenols present in pomegranate peel extract on the spleens of rats with metabolic syndrome. The study objects were adult male Zucker Diabetic Fatty (ZDF-Leprfa/Crl, fa/fa) rats. The rats were divided into a control group (MetS) consisting of rats with metabolic syndrome and four study groups consisting of rats with metabolic syndrome (MetS + 100 mg and MetS + 200 mg) or healthy animals (H + 100 mg and H + 200 mg) receiving polyphenol extract at a dose of 100 mg or 200 mg/kg, respectively. Concentrations of IL-6, NF-κB, NFATc1, Cyt-C, TNFα, MMP-2, ROS/RNS, and MDA were measured; the activities of GPX, SOD, CAT, MMP-2, and MMP-9 were assessed; and the expression of the BAX and BCL-2 genes was evaluated in homogenized spleens. In conclusion, pomegranate extract may lead to an increase in catalase and glutathione peroxidase activity. Additionally, it may have a reducing effect on the ROS/RNS level, leading to a reduction in the activity of SOD in the MetS groups with PPE administration. Moreover, the BCL-2 gene showed lower expression in the MetS + 100 mg group compared to the H + 100 mg group, indicating that the balance between pro- and antiapoptotic factors of the BCL-2 family may be disrupted by the metabolic syndrome promoting the proapoptotic pathway.

Therapeutic Potential of Pomegranate Extract for Women's Reproductive Health and Breast Cancer

Pomegranate extract has potential benefits for women's reproductive health, including fertility enhancement, menstrual cycle regulation, pregnancy support, and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) treatment. It possesses antioxidant properties, reducing oxidative stress and improving fertility. Pomegranate extract may help regulate hormonal imbalances and promote regular menstrual cycles. The extract's rich nutrient profile supports placental development and fetal growth and may reduce the risk of preterm birth. Additionally, pomegranate extract shows promise in improving insulin sensitivity and reducing inflammation and oxidative damage in PCOS. Some studies suggest its potential anticancer properties, particularly against breast cancer. However, further research, including human clinical trials, is necessary to establish its effectiveness and safety. The current evidence is limited and primarily based on in vitro studies, animal studies, and clinical trials. This review provides a comprehensive summary of the benefits of pomegranate extract for women's reproductive health and breast cancer, serving as a reference for future research.

Review of Pharmacological and Medicinal Uses of Punica granatum

Pomegranates (Punica granatum) are a fruit renowned for their rich history, diverse uses, and substantial health benefits. Current research on the botanical features, nutritional profile, and medicinal properties of pomegranates is summarized in this study. Botanically, the pomegranate is classified as a deciduous shrub with a unique fruit structure comprising numerous seeds, or arils, embedded in a leathery skin. Nutritionally, pomegranates are a significant source of antioxidants, particularly punicalagin, and anthocyanins, which contribute to their purported health benefits. Emerging evidence suggests that pomegranate consumption may have favorable effects on cardiovascular health, anti-inflammatory responses, and cancer prevention. Clinical studies highlight their potential to enhance blood flow, prevent arterial plaque formation, and reduce the risk of heart disease, heart attacks, and strokes. This review also examines traditional and contemporary uses of pomegranates in medicine and cuisine, highlighting their cultural significance and potential therapeutic applications. Despite promising findings, limitations in current research methodologies and the need for more robust clinical trials are discussed. This review aims to synthesize current research on the botanical characteristics, nutritional profile, and medicinal properties of pomegranates (Punica granatum), with a focus on their health benefits and applications in traditional and contemporary contexts. Future research directions are proposed to better understand the mechanisms underlying the health benefits of pomegranates and to optimize their use in preventive and therapeutic contexts.

The power of Punica granatum: A natural remedy for oxidative stress and inflammation; a narrative review

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Pomegranate 'Punica granatum' offers multiple health benefits, including managing hypertension, dyslipidemia, hyperglycemia, insulin resistance, and enhancing wound healing and infection resistance, thanks to its potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. It has been symbolized by life, health, femininity, fecundity, and spirituality.

AIM OF THE STUDY

Although laboratory and animal studies have been conducted on the healing effects of pomegranate, there needs to be a comprehensive review on its anti-oxidative and anti-inflammatory effects in chronic disorders. We aim to provide a comprehensive review of these effects based on in-vitro, in-vivo, and clinical studies conducted in managing various disorders.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A comprehensive search of in-vitro, in-vivo, and clinical findings of pomegranate and its derivatives focusing on the highly qualified original studies and systematic reviews are carried out in valid international web databases, including Web of Science, PubMed, Scopus, and Cochrane Library.

RESULTS

Relevant studies have demonstrated that pomegranate and its derivatives can modulate the expression and activity of several genes, enzymes, and receptors through influencing oxidative stress and inflammation pathways. Different parts of pomegranate; roots, bark, blossoms, fruits, and leaves contain various bioactive compounds, such as polyphenols, flavonoids, anthocyanins, and ellagitannins, that have preventive and therapeutic effects against many disorders such as cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, neurological diseases, and cancers without any serious adverse effects.

CONCLUSIONS

Most recent scientific evidence indicates that all parts of the pomegranate can be helpful in treating a wide range of chronic disorders due to its anti-oxidative and anti-inflammatory activities. Since the safety of pomegranate fruit, juice, and extracts is established, further investigations can be designed by targeting its active antioxidant and anti-inflammatory constituents to discover new drugs.

Pomegranate seeds: a comprehensive review of traditional uses, chemical composition, and pharmacological properties

Pomegranate seeds (PS) are the dried seeds derived from pomegranate fruit, accounting for approximately 20% of the fruit's total weight, and are a by-product of pomegranate juice extraction. These seeds hold significance in traditional medicine among Uyghurs and Tibetan cultures, featuring diverse clinical applications within traditional Chinese medicine. These applications include management of gastric coldness and acidity, abdominal distension, liver and gallbladder fever, and pediatric enteritis. PS demonstrates properties such as stomach tonicity, qi regulation, analgesia, and anti-inflammatory effects. Extensive research underscores the richness of PS in various phytochemical compounds and metabolites, notably unsaturated fatty acids (particularly linolenic acid and linoleic acid), phenolic compounds tocopherols, proteins, and volatile oils. Notably, among these bioactive compounds, punicic acid (PA), found within PS, demonstrates potential in the prevention and treatment of cancers, diabetes, obesity, and other ailments. Despite extensive literature on pomegranate as a botanical entity, a comprehensive review focusing specifically on the chemical composition and pharmacological effects of PS remains elusive. Therefore, this review aimed to consolidate knowledge regarding the medicinal properties of PS, summarizing its chemical composition, traditional uses, and pharmacological effects in treating various diseases, thereby laying a foundation for the advancement and application of PS in the field of pharmacology.

Modified Release 3D-Printed Capsules Containing a Ketoprofen Self-Nanoemulsifying System for Personalized Medical Application

This study explores the realm of personalized medicine by investigating the utilization of 3D-printed dosage forms, specifically focusing on patient-specific enteric capsules designed for the modified release of ketoprofen, serving as a model drug. The research investigates two distinct scenarios: the modification of drug release from 3D-printed capsules crafted from hydroxypropyl methylcellulose phthalate:polyethylene glycol (HPMCP:PEG) and poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA), tailored for pH sensitivity and delayed release modes, respectively. Additionally, a novel ketoprofen-loaded self-nanoemulsifying drug delivery system (SNEDDS) based on pomegranate seed oil (PSO) was developed, characterized, and employed as a fill material for the capsules. Through the preparation and characterization of the HPMCP:PEG based filament via the hot-melt extrusion method, the study thoroughly investigated its thermal and mechanical properties. Notably, the in vitro drug release analysis unveiled the intricate interplay between ketoprofen release, polymer type, and capsule thickness. Furthermore, the incorporation of ketoprofen into the SNEDDS exhibited an enhancement in its in vitro cylooxygenase-2 (COX-2) inhibitory activity. These findings collectively underscore the potential of 3D printing in shaping tailored drug delivery systems, thereby contributing significantly to the advancement of personalized medicine.

Pomegranate (Punica granatum L): A Fruitful Fountain of Remedial Potential

Pomegranate (Punica granatum L.) has long been used for medical purposes. Punica protopunicas and Punica granatum L. are two prominent species of pomegranate, generally known as "Anar" and farmed worldwide. Its medicinal value is documented in several ancient texts. This review article aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the remedial uses of pomegranate in traditional and modern medicine. The methodology employed for this review involves a systematic literature search, collection of relevant articles, and critical analysis of their content. The review covers the botanical properties, phytochemical composition, and diverse remedial applications of pomegranate, including its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anticancer, cardiovascular, antimicrobial, and dermatological properties. The gathered data emphasizes the potential benefits of pomegranate-derived compounds in managing a range of health issues. This review sheds light on the importance of pomegranate as a valuable natural resource for various therapeutic interventions and encourages further research to unlock its full remedial potential. Traditional medicine is gaining popularity to restore health to individuals with few negative effects. Due to the existence of key phytochemical elements such as flavonoids, punic acid, ellagic acid, anthocyanins, ellagitannins, flavones, and estrogenic flavonoids, it has a wide range of clinical applications.

The Therapeutic Alliance between Pomegranate and Health Emphasizing on Anticancer Properties

Pomegranate is a fruit bearing-plant that is well known for its medicinal properties. Pomegranate is a good source of phenolic acids, tannins, and flavonoids. Pomegranate juice and by-products have attracted the scientific interest due to their potential health benefits. Currently, the medical community has showed great interest in exploiting pomegranate potential as a protective agent against several human diseases including cancer. This is demonstrated by the fact that there are more than 800 reports in the literature reporting pomegranate's anticancer properties. This review is an update on the research outcomes of pomegranate's potential against different types of human diseases, emphasizing on cancer. In addition, perspectives of potential applications of pomegranate, as a natural additive aiming to improve the quality of animal products, are discussed.

Punica granatum seed oil detracts peritoneal adhesion: Perusing antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antifibrotic, and antiangiogenic impacts

Peritoneal adhesion is a significant problem following gastrointestinal surgeries, accompanied by a significant economic burden and morbidity for patients. Punica granatum seed oil (PSO) possesses antioxidative, anti-inflammatory, and anticancer effects. Thus, we aimed to evaluate the antiperitoneal adhesive properties of PSO in rats. Forty-eight Wistar rats (200-250 g) were randomly and equally divided into six groups: sham group, control group; peritoneal adhesion without any treatment, vehicle group; peritoneal adhesion with saline + Tween-80.5% treatment, and experimental groups; peritoneal adhesion with 0.5%, 1.5%, and 4.5% v/v PSO treatment. In addition, peritoneal adhesion was examined macroscopically along with evaluating the oxidative stress (malondialdehyde [MDA], nitric oxide [NO], and glutathione [GSH]) inflammatory (interleukin [IL]-6, IL-1β, and tumor necrosis factor-α [TNF-α]), fibrotic (transforming growth factor-β [TGF-β]), and angiogenic (vascular endothelial growth factor [VEGF]) factors. Our results revealed that the levels of adhesion scores, MDA, NO, IL-6, TNF-α, IL-1β, TGF-β, and VEGF, were propagated in the vehicle group while the GSH level was alleviated (p < 0.001). In contrast, premedication with PSO, especially at the lowest concentration, notably lessened the levels of adhesion scores, MDA, NO, IL-6, TNF-α, IL-1β, TGF-β, and VEGF as well as GSH in comparison to the vehicle group following the peritoneal adhesion induction (p < 0.001-0.05). As a result, PSO may prevent peritoneal adhesion through its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antifibrotic, and antiangiogenic properties. Therefore, PSO could be considered a beneficial candidate for the treatment of postoperative peritoneal adhesion.

Pomegranate juice and punicalagin-mediated chemoprevention of hepatocellular carcinogenesis via regulating miR-21 and NF-κB-p65 in a rat model

Background

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the most common neoplasm among primary liver malignancies, accounting for 70%–85% of total liver cancer cases worldwide. It is also the second-leading cause of cancer-related death worldwide. Recent research has investigated naturally occurring products high in polyphenolic compounds in the regression and prevention of HCC. This study investigated the chemoprevention effects of pomegranate juice (PJ) and punicalagin (PCG) against diethylnitrosamine (DENA)-induced hepatocarcinogenesis in male albino rats.

Methods

Animals were randomized into six groups and treated for 11 weeks as follows: group 1 was a negative control group, group 2 was treated orally with 10 mL PJ per kilogram body weight (kg bw), group 3 was treated orally with 18.5 mg PCG/kg bw, and groups 4–6 were injected with an intraperitoneal dose of DENA (50 mg/kg bw) weekly beginning in the third week. Group 4 was a HCC control (DENA-treated group), group 5 was HCC + PJ, and group 6 was HCC + PCG.

Results

PJ antagonized DENA-induced elevations of ALAT, TNF-α, NF-κB-p65, GST, MDA, and NO and restored total protein, IL-10, SOD, and CAT levels. Moreover, PJ resulted in downregulation of miR-21, Bcl-2, and Bcl-XL and an upregulation of caspase-3 and Bax mRNA expressions. These chemoprevention effects of PJ also alleviated the hepatic preneoplastic lesions induced by DENA. Although PCG treatment induced some modulation in DENA-treated rats, it did not show potent chemoprevention activity and induced some side effects.

Conclusion

Both of PJ and PCG downregulated miR-21 expression and triggered apoptosis. However, PJ was more effective than pure PCG in alleviating the hepatic antioxidant defense state and the inflammatory status. So, PJ was superior in prevention of DENA-induced hepatocellular carcinogenesis in rats than pure PCG.

Graphical Abstract

The Therapeutic Efficacy of Punica granatum and Its Bioactive Constituents with Special Reference to Photodynamic Therapy

Punica granatum (P. granatum) is a fruit-bearing tree from the Punicaceae family, indigenous to Iran. This plant has healing qualities that have drawn the interest of the medical community as an alternative treatment for malignancies and non-malignancies. Its healing quality is due to the phytochemicals present in the plant. These include ellagic acid, punicic acid, phenols, and flavonoids. In traditional medicine, P. granatum has been used in treating diseases such as dysentery, bleeding disorders, leprosy, and burns. This review explores the effects of the phytochemical constituents of P. granatum on photodynamic therapy for cancer, chronic inflammation, osteoarthritis, and viral infections. Its antioxidant and antitumor effects play a role in reduced free radical damage and cancer cell proliferation. It was concluded that P. granatum has been used for many disease conditions for a better therapeutic outcome. This paper will give visibility to more studies and expand the knowledge on the potential use of P. granatum in photodynamic cancer treatment.

LC-PDA-MS and GC-MS Analysis of Scorzonera hispanica Seeds and Their Effects on Human Breast Cancer Cell Lines

Scorzonera hispanica is an herbaceous perennial cultivated in Central and Southern Europe. This study aimed to qualitatively and quantitatively evaluate the composition of oil, extracts, and fractions (SH1-SH12) obtained from S. hispanica seeds. Furthermore, an evaluation of biological activities in breast cancer cell lines was also performed. GC-MS analysis revealed that the primary components of the seed oil (SH12) were fatty acids and β-sitosterol. In the evaluation of extracts (SH1-SH3, SH8-SH10) and fractions (SH4-SH7, SH11) composition, the presence of apigenin, derivatives of p-coumaric and caffeic acids, was reported. In the biological assays, methanolic extract (SH1), diethyl ether (SH4), and chloroform (SH11) fractions exhibited cytotoxicity toward cells. The highest activity was observed for fatty acids- and 3,4-dimethoxycinnamate-rich SH11 (IC₅₀: 399.18 μg/mL for MCF-7, 781.26 μg/mL for MDA-MB-231). SH11 was also observed to induce apoptosis in MCF-7 cells (52.4%). SH1, SH4, and SH11 attenuate signaling pathways and affect the expression of apoptosis-, autophagy-, and inflammation-related proteins. SH12 was non-toxic toward either cancer or normal cell lines in concentrations up to 1 mg/mL. The results suggest that S. hispanica seeds exhibit a wide range of potential uses as a source of oil and bioactive compounds for complementary therapy of breast cancer.

Improved Efficiency of Pomegranate Seed Oil Administrated Nasally

Pomegranate seed oil (PSO) is currently administrated orally as a food supplement for improving memory. However, the efficiency of the oral dosage forms for such purposes is low, mainly due to the blood brain barrier impeding a good delivery to brain. In this work, we designed and characterized a PSO phospholipid oily gel for nasal administration. We tested the performance of the new PSO delivery system in animal models for impaired memory and locomotor activity. The experimental results indicated a statistically significant improvement (p < 0.05) of more than 1.5 fold in the behavior of animals treated nasally, in comparison to those treated with orally administrated oil. Furthermore, in multiphoton microscopy and near infrared imaging studies, the nasal administration of fluorescent probes, fluorescein isothiocyanate (FITC), and indocyanine green (ICG) incorporated in the PSO system showed enhanced delivery to the brain. Results of the histopathologic examination of the nasal cavity and mucosa, as carried out by a pathologist, indicated the safety of the PSO phospholipid oily gel. In conclusion, the results of this work encourage further investigation of the phospholipid oily gel composition as a new way of PSO administration.

The effects of ellagic acid and other pomegranate (Punica granatum L.) derivatives on human gastric cancer AGS cells

Although surgery with or without (neo)adjuvant chemo/radiotherapy, as the standard treatments, can be suitable therapeutic strategies for gastric cancer, side effects and drug resistance are two main treatment obstacles. It has been discovered that pomegranate and its natural derivatives, especially ellagic acid (EA), offer significant anti-cancer effects while causing trivial side effects. In this study, we aimed to explore the anti-cancer effects of EA on a human gastric adenocarcinoma cell line (AGS) as well as in immunocompromised mice bearing human gastric tumors, for the first time. HPLC was used for determining EA in samples. MTT assay, apoptosis and scratch assay, gelatin zymography, and quantitative RT-PCR were used to determine the anti-cancer properties of different concentrations of pomegranate fruit juice, pomegranate peel extract, and EA. Furthermore, the effects of these compounds were investigated on immunosuppressed C57BL/6 mice carrying human gastric cancer tumors. EA could inhibit the proliferation and migration of gastric cancer cells. It also had significant effects on reducing both expression and activity of MMP-2 and MMP-9. Further, it was demonstrated that with alterations in the expression of genes involved in apoptosis and inflammation including P53, BAX, APAF1, BCL2, iNOS, NF-κB, IL-8, and TNF-α, EA treatment led to increased cancer cell death and reduced inflammation. Furthermore, its use in mice bearing gastric tumors resulted in a significant reduction in tumor volume without any obvious side effects. Ellagic acid exhibited anti-cancer effects on gastric adenocarcinoma, and can be considered as a safe anti-cancer agent for further preclinical studies on this cancer.

Pullulan film incorporated with nanocapsules improves pomegranate seed oil anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects in the treatment of atopic dermatitis in mice

This study aimed to prepare pullulan films containing pomegranate seeds oil (PSO) based nanocapsules, and evaluate the formulation efficacy in the treatment of atopic dermatitis (AD)-like lesions induced by 2,4-dinitrochlorobenzene (DNCB). The Eudragit RS 100® nanocapsules (PSONC) were prepared by the interfacial precipitation of preformed polymer, whereas the films were produced by the solvent casting method. Pomegranate seed oil nanoemulsions (PSONE) were prepared by the spontaneous emulsification method for comparative reasons. Both nanosystems presented adequate mean diameter (248 ± 16 nm for PSONE and 181 ± 6 nm for PSONC), polydispersity index (below 0.2), zeta potential (-25.63 ± 1.1 mV for PSONE and + 43.13 ± 0.7 mV for PSONC) and pH in the acid range (6.77 ± 0.27 and 5.31 ± 0.17, PSONE and PSONC). By a pre-formulation study, sorbitol (6.5%) and PEG 400 (1.5%) were considered the most suitable plasticizers for developing pullulan films (6%) intending topical application. In general, pullulan films were classified as flexible and hydrophilic, with high occlusive properties, 57.6 ± 0.8%, 64.6 ± 0.8% for vehicle, PSONCF (pullulan film containing PSONC), respectively. All formulations (films and nanocarriers) presented no irritant potential in the chorioallantoic membrane test. In the in vivo model, the treatments with free PSO and PSONCF attenuated the skin injury as well as the mechanical hypernociceptive behavioral induced by DNCB exposure to mice. Importantly, the biochemical analyses provided evidence that only the treatment with PSONCF modulated the inflammatory and the oxidative stress parameters evaluated in this study. In conclusion, these data lead us to believe that PSONC incorporation into a pullulan film matrix improved the biological properties of the PSO in this AD-model.

Review of Post-laser-resurfacing Topical Agents for Improved Healing and Cosmesis

BACKGROUND

Laser resurfacing produces a controlled skin injury, resulting in a wound healing response. This wound healing response allows for collagen remodeling, which improves skin texture and tone. Topical agents are often employed following laser treatments to facilitate recovery. The introduction of newer small-molecule technologies allow for improved recovery and cosmesis.

OBJECTIVE

We sought to perform a critical review of the safety and efficacy of newer small-molecule technologies employed following laser resurfacing.

METHODS

We performed a PubMed search of the generic name of the following topicals and included literature relevant to laser procedures, with an emphasis on laser resurfacing: thermal spring water, conjugated linolenic acid, vitamin C/vitamin E/ferulic acid serum, tripeptide/hexapeptide technology-containing products, growth factor serum and gel, recombinant human epidermal growth factor ointment and gel, red deer umbilical cord lining mesenchymal stem cell extract cream and serum, silicone-based gel, and microparticulate (1-3, 1-6 beta-glucan) gel.

RESULTS

Our search of the PubMed database yielded 62 results, out of which 17 clinical studies were included in this publication. The majority of aforementioned topicals show promise in terms of improving post-resurfacing recovery or cosmesis.

CONCLUSION

Clinical data regarding these agents is limited by the number and quality of studies. It is therefore challenging to propose a recommendation supporting any particular topical. We provide our own provider-specific post-laser resurfacing protocols to offer insight regarding new small-molecule technologies.

Pharmacological and Therapeutic Properties of Punica granatum Phytochemicals: Possible Roles in Breast Cancer

Background: Pomgranate (Punica granatum) represents a high source of polyphenols with great bioavailability. The role of this fruit in the prevention and treatment of various malignant pathologies has been long time cited in both scientific and non-scientific literature, making thus important to identify its involvement in the pathophysiological processes. The treatment for breast cancer had focused on the inhibition of the mechanisms that governs the estrogen activity. These mechanisms are covered either by the antagonism of the estrogen receptor (ER) or by the inhibition of the estrogen synthesis. Our interest in identifying a bioactive compound rich in polyphenols, which induces both the antagonism of the estrogen receptor, and the inhibition of the estrogen synthesis, revealed us the pomegranate fruit and its derivatives: peel and seeds. Pomegranates' chemical composition include many biological active substances such as flavonols, flavanols, anthocyanins, proanthocyanidins, ellagitannins and gallotannins. Materials and Methods: We performed a review of the scientific literature by using the following keywords: "pomegranate", "breast cancer", "Punica granatum", "pomegranate polyphenols". Our search was performed in the PubMed and Google Scholar databases, and it included only original research written in English from the last 20 years. None of the articles were excluded due to affiliation. A total number of 28 original papers, which mentioned the beneficial activity of pomegranate against breast cancer, were selected. Both clinical and preclinical studies were considered for this review. Results: Recent discoveries pointed out that polyphenols from Punica granatum possess strong anti-cancer activity, exhibited by a variety of mechanisms, such as anti-estrogenic, anti-proliferative, anti-angiogenetic, anti-inflammatory, and anti-metastatic. Pomegranate extracts induced cell cycle arrest in the G0/G1 phase, and induced cytotoxicity in a dose- and time-dependent manner. Moreover, several polyphenols extracted from pomegranate inhibited the invasion potential, migration and viability of breast cancer cells. The effects of pomegranate juice on serum estrogens and other sexual hormones levels were also investigated on two human cohorts. Conclusions: Punica granatum represents a promising area in oncology. The large availability and low cost, associated with the lack of side effects, made from this natural product a great strategy for the management of breast cancer. There are several mechanistic studies in mouse models and in breast cancer cell lines, suggesting the possible pathways through which polyphenols from pomegranate extracts act, but larger and better-controlled studies are necessary in the future. Only two small clinical trials were conducted on humans until now, but their results are contradictory and should be considered preliminary.

Role of natural products in breast cancer related symptomology: Targeting chronic inflammation

Breast cancer is the most common cancer in women worldwide. There have been many advancements in the treatment of breast cancer leading to an increased population of patients living with this disease. Accumulating evidence suggests that cancer diagnosis and aftermath experienced stress could not only affect the quality of life of cancer patients, but it could also influence their disease outcome. The magnitude of stress experienced by breast cancer patients is often compared to the post-traumatic stress disorder-like symptoms suggested to be mediated by the chronic inflammation including NF-κB, AKt, p53 and other inflammatory pathways. Here, we describe the symptomology of PTSD-like symptoms in breast cancer patients and argue that they may in fact be caused by or maintained through aspects of chronic inflammation mediated by the pro-inflammatory markers. Evidence exists that natural products that might attenuate or lessen the effects of chronic inflammation abound in the diet. We summarize some possible agents that might abate the genesis of symptoms experienced by breast cancer patients while mitigating the effect of inflammation.

Fruits

Fruits come in a wide variety of colors, shapes, and flavors. This chapter will cover selected fruits that are known to be healthy and highly nutritious. These fruits were chosen due to their common usage and availability. Since it is not possible to cover all health benefits or essential nutrients and important phytochemicals of the fruit composition, this chapter will focus on the key valuable constituents and their potential health effects.

Comparative Study of Punica granatum Gel and Triadent Oral Paste Effect on Recurrent Aphthous Stomatitis, a Double Blind Clinical Trial

Statement of the Problem

Recurrent aphthous stomatitis is a common oral lesion, and the use of herbal remedies containing tannin and flavonoid has been reported to be effective in treating aphthous stomatitis.

Purpose

This study was aimed to evaluate the effect of Punica granatum muco-adhesive gel on controlling the oral recurrent aphthous stomatitis and its comparison with Triadent oral paste.

Materials and Method

In this double-blind clinical trial, 60 patients with minor aphthous stomatitis were enrolled. These patients had no systemic diseases and were not on any medications. The patients were randomly treated with Punica granatum formulated gel, Triadent oral paste and placebo. The time of pain elimination and the time of complete healing were recorded and the pain degree was assessed and recorded by each patient. The data were analyzed using survival analysis and ANOVA test.

Results

The Kaplan-Meier survival analysis demonstrated that pain relief time in Punica granatum group was lower than placebo group (p= 0.002), even so, it caused no significant difference with the Triadent group in comparison with the placebo group (p= 0.08). The survival analysis also indicated that the wound healing time in Punica granatum group was significantly lower than the other two groups (p< 0.05).

Conclusion

Punica granatum gel has a successful effect in controlling and treating recurrent aphthous stomatitis. It can be considered as an affordable and inexpensive treatment.

Potential of Fatty Oils from Traditional Chinese Medicine in Cancer Therapy: A Review for Phytochemical, Pharmacological and Clinical Studies

Cancer management is a worldwide challenge. In addition to effective cancer therapies like chemotherapy, radiotherapy and surgery, treatment based on traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) and combined TCM with western medicine has gradually gained attention in Oriental countries. One potential TCM approach using extracted fatty oils, containing fatty acids which are important active ingredients with a variety of pharmacological activities, makes significant contributions to cancer treatment. The strategies of treating cancer with the fatty oils of TCM were classified into “Fuzheng”, which usually associates with improving immunity, represented by coix seed oil. The other classification is “Quxie”, which relates to inducing apoptosis of cancer cells, and is represented by Brucea javanica oil. Compared with other active substances, the literature about anticancer fatty oils is relatively limited, and most of them focus on the composition and other biological activities without a systematic review. Therefore, based on the theories of “Fuzheng” and “Quxie” in TCM, in this paper, the anticancer effects of fatty oils have been reviewed. The chemical composition, anticancer mechanism, listed drugs, studying dosage form and clinical application of fatty oils have also been discussed. In summary, since there are different types and abundance of fatty oils among botanicals, anticancer effects of fatty oils can be achieved through two TCM theory-based strategies. We hoped that this review paper can reveal the anticancer potential of fatty oils and provide a reference for future related studies.

Potential therapeutic effect of pomegranate seed oil on ovarian ischemia/reperfusion injury in rats

OBJECTIVES

The aim of this study is to determine the therapeutic effects of pomegranate seed oil, which is a powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agent, on ovarian-ischemia and reperfusion injury in rats.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Fifty-six female albino Wistar rats were divided into 7 equal groups. Group 1; Sham Operation, Group 2; Ischemia, Group 3; Ischemia + Reperfusion, Group 4; Ischemia + Pomegranate 0,32 ml / kg (IP), Group 5; Ischemia + Pomegranate 0.64 ml / kg, Group 6; Ischemia + Pomegranate 0,32 ml / kg + reperfusion, Group 7; Ischemia + Pomegranate 0,64 ml / kg + reperfusion. Three hours after ischemia and 3 hours after reperfusion, the study was terminated.

RESULTS

While NADPH oxidase activity, MDA and TNF-α levels were significantly increased, SOD activity and GSH levels were reduced in ischemia and I/R groups. Low dose pomegranate seed oil application reduced significantly oxidative stress and NADPH oxidase activity in both ischemic and ischemic/reperfusion groups. At the same time, low-dose pomegranate seed oil extract reduced TNF-α levels and significantly increased antioxidant activity.

CONCLUSION

PSO demonstrated an important therapeutic effect in the treatment of ovarian ischemia and reperfusion injury.

Pomegranate Seed Oil Enhances the Percutaneous Absorption of trans-Resveratrol

Pomegranate seed oil (PSO) is primarily composed of unsaturated fatty acids, implying its potential application as a transdermal enhancer. In this study, the function of PSO in prompting the percutaneous absorption of resveratrol was examined and compared with isopropyl palmitate (IP). IP of 10% enhanced the cumulative permeation amount of resveratrol by 50% but did not influence the permeation velocity. Though 2.5% and 5.0% IP accelerated the penetration process of resveratrol, they had no discernable impact on total permeation amount. In contrast, the cumulative percutaneous amount of the drug with 2.5%, 5.0% and 10% PSO was 1.25, 2.25, and 3.14-fold that of resveratrol alone, respectively. Moreover, PSO of different concentrations speeded up resveratrol to permeate through skin in the whole process, exhibiting its superior capacity over IP in enhancing the transdermal absorption of resveratrol. IP of 2.5% substantially augmented resveratrol retention in stratum corneum (SC), epidermis, and dermis (p < 0.05) while 2.5% PSO only increased the drug detaining in SC. Involvement of oils also aided in resveratrol diffusion within skin. The study demonstrates that both IP and PSO prompted the percutaneous transport of resveratrol. PSO presents more promising opportunities in serving as a percutaneous enhancer for transdermal preparations.

Main components of pomegranate, ellagic acid and luteolin, inhibit metastasis of ovarian cancer by down-regulating MMP2 and MMP9

Ovarian cancer is the third most common cancer in the female reproductive organs and epithelial ovarian cancer has the highest lethality of all gynecological cancers. Pomegranate fruit juice (PFJ) has been shown to inhibit the growth of several types of cancer other than ovarian cancer. In this study, we exposed the ovarian cancer cell line A2780 to PFJ and two of its components (ellagic acid and luteolin). MTT and wound healing assays demonstrated that all three treatments suppressed the proliferation and migration of the ovarian cancer cells. In addition, western blotting and ELISA assays showed that the expression levels of MMP2 and MMP9 gradually decreased after treatment with increasing concentrations of ellagic acid and luteolin. To confirm our findings in the in vitro experiments, we used another ovarian cancer cell line, ES-2, in nude mice experiments. All three treatments inhibited tumor growth without obvious side-effects. Furthermore, compared with the control group, the expression levels of MMP2 and MMP9 were depressed. Ellagic acid induced a greater effect than luteolin, suggesting that ellagic acid might be a promising candidate for further preclinical testing for treatment of human ovarian cancer.

A Topical Anti-inflammatory Healing Regimen Utilizing Conjugated Linolenic Acid for Use Post-ablative Laser Resurfacing of the Face: A Randomized, Controlled Trial

Background: Fractionated, ablative lasers are usually associated with post-treatment erythema, edema, and crusting, which can last from 5 to 14 days. Conjugated linolenic acid, an omega-5 fatty acid, has significant antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, and has been shown to stimulate keratinocyte proliferation and epidermal regeneration. By modulating the early inflammatory milieu and directly affecting skin structure and function, conjugated linolenic acid might therefore shorten downtime following fractionated ablative laser resurfacing of the face. Objective: To evaluate the efficacy and subject satisfaction of a topical regimen containing conjugated linolenic acid derived from pomegranate seed extract in accelerating wound healing and improving skin quality following fractionated ablative laser resurfacing of the face. Materials and Methods: Thirty-four subjects were enrolled and received fractionated CO2 laser resurfacing. Subjects were randomized to use the test healing regimen (n=24) or 1% dimethicone ointment (n=10) post-procedure. The primary endpoint was the degree of erythema, edema, crusting, and exudation evaluated by a blinded clinician at post-treatment Days 1,3,7,10, 14, and 30. Secondary endpoints included a blinded evaluator assessment of the degree of wrinkling and elastosis using the Fitzpatrick-Goldman Wrinkle and Elastosis Scale; subject-assessed degree of pain, itching, tightness, oozing, and crusting; and subject overall satisfaction. Results: Subjects who applied the topical conjugated linolenic acid healing regimen experienced significantly reduced edema on post-procedure Day 3 (p=0.04), and itching on Days 1 and 3 (p=0.03 and p=0.04). Both regimens produced significant improvements in wrinkling and elastosis at Days 14 and 30 post-treatment, with conjugated linolenic acid outperforming placebo in improvements in wrinkling at Day 14. Both regimens were well tolerated with no statistical differences in adverse events or subject satisfaction. Conclusion: The topical conjugated linolenic acid formulation outperformed placebo by decreasing acute pruritus and edema, and enabling a faster positive outcome in wrinkle improvement. Additionally, topical conjugated linolenic acid does not raise any safety or tolerability issues as compared to current standard of care.

Dietary Natural Products for Prevention and Treatment of Breast Cancer

Breast cancer is the most common cancer among females worldwide. Several epidemiological studies suggested the inverse correlation between the intake of vegetables and fruits and the incidence of breast cancer. Substantial experimental studies indicated that many dietary natural products could affect the development and progression of breast cancer, such as soy, pomegranate, mangosteen, citrus fruits, apple, grape, mango, cruciferous vegetables, ginger, garlic, black cumin, edible macro-fungi, and cereals. Their anti-breast cancer effects involve various mechanisms of action, such as downregulating ER-α expression and activity, inhibiting proliferation, migration, metastasis and angiogenesis of breast tumor cells, inducing apoptosis and cell cycle arrest, and sensitizing breast tumor cells to radiotherapy and chemotherapy. This review summarizes the potential role of dietary natural products and their major bioactive components in prevention and treatment of breast cancer, and special attention was paid to the mechanisms of action.

Pomegranate for Prevention and Treatment of Cancer: An Update

Cancer is the second leading cause of death in the United States, and those who survive cancer may experience lasting difficulties, including treatment side effects, as well as physical, cognitive, and psychosocial struggles. Naturally-occurring agents from dietary fruits and vegetables have received considerable attention for the prevention and treatment of cancers. These natural agents are safe and cost efficient in contrast to expensive chemotherapeutic agents, which may induce significant side effects. The pomegranate (Punica granatum L.) fruit has been used for the prevention and treatment of a multitude of diseases and ailments for centuries in ancient cultures. Pomegranate exhibits strong antioxidant activity and is a rich source of anthocyanins, ellagitannins, and hydrolysable tannins. Studies have shown that the pomegranate fruit as well as its juice, extract, and oil exert anti-inflammatory, anti-proliferative, and anti-tumorigenic properties by modulating multiple signaling pathways, which suggest its use as a promising chemopreventive/chemotherapeutic agent. This review summarizes preclinical and clinical studies highlighting the role of pomegranate in prevention and treatment of skin, breast, prostate, lung, and colon cancers.

Oxidative Stability of Pomegranate (Punica granatum L.) Seed Oil to Simulated Gastric Conditions and Thermal Stress

The fatty acid composition of pomegranate (Punica granatum L.) seed oil (PSO) is dominated by punicic acid, a conjugated linolenic acid (18:3ω-5). As a free fatty acid, punicic acid is rapidly oxidized in air and extensively isomerizes upon acid-catalyzed methylation at 90 °C. In contrast, triacylglycerol-bound punicic acid in PSO was unchanged by simulated gastric conditions and was degraded by 5-7% by severe heating (up to 170 °C for 4 h), as herein assessed by gas chromatography, attenuated total reflectance-Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, ¹H and ¹³C NMR, and high-resolution electrospray ionization mass spectrometry. Total polar compounds of PSO were slightly affected by thermal stress, accounting for 5.71, 6.35, and 9.53% (w/w) in the unheated, heated at mild temperature (50 °C, 2 h), and heated at frying temperature (170 °C, 4 h) PSO, respectively. These findings support from a structural standpoint the potential use of PSO as a health-promoting edible oil.

Potential Anticancer Effects of Polyphenols from Chestnut Shell Extracts: Modulation of Cell Growth, and Cytokinomic and Metabolomic Profiles

In this study, a hydroalcoholic chestnut shell extract was characterized and tested on six different human cell lines. Gallic, ellagic, and syringic acids were the most abundant non-condensed compounds in the chestnut extract, as determined by high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). Tannins were mainly represented by condensed monomeric units of epigallocatechin and catechin/epicatechin. After 48 h of treatment, only the human hepatoblastoma HepG2 cells reached an inhibition corresponding to IC₅₀ with an increase of apoptosis and mitochondrial depolarization. The cytokinome evaluation before and after treatment revealed that the vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and the tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α decreased after the treatment, suggesting a potential anti-angiogenic and anti-inflammatory effect of this extract. Moreover, the metabolome evaluation by ¹H-NMR evidenced that the polyphenols extracted from chestnut shell (PECS) treatment affected the levels of some amino acids and other metabolites. Overall, these data highlight the effects of biomolecules on cell proliferation, apoptosis, cell cycle and mitochondrial depolarization, and on cytokinomics and metabolomics profiles.

Antiproliferative and Antiangiogenic Effects of Punica granatum Juice (PGJ) in Multiple Myeloma (MM)

Multiple myeloma (MM) is a clonal B-cell malignancy characterized by an accumulation of clonal plasma cells (PC) in the bone marrow (BM) leading to bone destruction and BM failure. Despite recent advances in pharmacological therapy, MM remains a largely incurable pathology. Therefore, novel effective and less toxic agents are urgently necessary. In the last few years, pomegranate has been studied for its potential therapeutic properties including treatment and prevention of cancer. Pomegranate juice (PGJ) contains a number of potential active compounds including organic acids, vitamins, sugars, and phenolic components that are all responsible of the pro-apoptotic effects observed in tumor cell line. The aim of present investigation is to assess the antiproliferative and antiangiogenic potential of the PGJ in human multiple myeloma cell lines. Our data demonstrate the anti-proliferative potential of PGJ in MM cells; its ability to induce G0/G1 cell cycle block and its anti-angiogenic effects. Interestingly, sequential combination of bortezomib/PGJ improved the cytotoxic effect of the proteosome inhibitor. We investigated the effect of PGJ on angiogenesis and cell migration/invasion. Interestingly, we observed an inhibitory effect on the tube formation, microvessel outgrowth aorting ring and decreased cell migration and invasion as showed by wound-healing and transwell assays, respectively. Analysis of angiogenic genes expression in endothelial cells confirmed the anti-angiogenic properties of pomegranate. Therefore, PGJ administration could represent a good tool in order to identify novel therapeutic strategies for MM treatment, exploiting its anti-proliferative and anti-angiogenic effects. Finally, the present research supports the evidence that PGJ could play a key role of a future therapeutic approach for treatment of MM in order to optimize the pharmacological effect of bortezomib, especially as adjuvant after treatment.

Sources and Bioactive Properties of Conjugated Dietary Fatty Acids

The group of conjugated fatty acids known as conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) isomers have been extensively studied with regard to their bioactive potential in treating some of the most prominent human health malignancies. However, CLA isomers are not the only group of potentially bioactive conjugated fatty acids currently undergoing study. In this regard, isomers of conjugated α-linolenic acid, conjugated nonadecadienoic acid and conjugated eicosapentaenoic acid, to name but a few, have undergone experimental assessment. These studies have indicated many of these conjugated fatty acid isomers commonly possess anti-carcinogenic, anti-adipogenic, anti-inflammatory and immune modulating properties, a number of which will be discussed in this review. The mechanisms through which these bioactivities are mediated have not yet been fully elucidated. However, existing evidence indicates that these fatty acids may play a role in modulating the expression of several oncogenes, cell cycle regulators, and genes associated with energy metabolism. Despite such bioactive potential, interest in these conjugated fatty acids has remained low relative to the CLA isomers. This may be partly attributed to the relatively recent emergence of these fatty acids as bioactives, but also due to a lack of awareness regarding sources from which they can be produced. In this review, we will also highlight the common sources of these conjugated fatty acids, including plants, algae, microbes and chemosynthesis.

Health Benefits of Punicic Acid: A Review

Punicic acid (PA) is a polyunsaturated fatty acid (18:3 n-5), which is classified as a conjugated linolenic acid. PA is also referred as a "super CLnA" whose effect is even more potent than that of an ordinary CLnA. It is found mainly in the seeds of pomegranate fruit (Punica granatum) and Trichoxanthes kirilowii and some other minor sources. It possesses a wide array of biological properties including antidiabetic, antiobesity, antiproliferative, and anticarcinogenic activity against various forms of cancer. In spite of this, PA has not been explored as a nutraceutical or as an ingredient of food products which can be aimed at specific consumer target groups. This review details the various health-beneficial properties of PA and explores the possibilities of its utilization as an active ingredient in various food products.

Anti-Inflammatory Effects of a Methanol Extract from the Marine Sponge Geodia cydonium on the Human Breast Cancer MCF-7 Cell Line

Many research groups are working to find new possible anti-inflammatory molecules, and marine sponges represent a rich source of biologically active compounds with pharmacological applications. In the present study, we tested different concentrations of the methanol extract from the marine sponge, Geodia cydonium, on normal human breast epithelial cells (MCF-10A) and human breast cancer cells (MCF-7). Our results show that this extract has no cytotoxic effects on both cell lines whereas it induces a decrease in levels of VEGF and five proinflammatory cytokines (CCL2, CXCL8, CXCL10, IFN-γ, and TNF-α) only in MCF-7 cells in a dose-dependent manner, thereby indicating an anti-inflammatory effect. Moreover, interactomic analysis suggests that all six cytokines are involved in a network and are connected with some HUB nodes such as NF-kB subunits and ESR1 (estrogen receptor 1). We also report a decrease in the expression of two NFKB1 and c-Rel subunits by RT-qPCR experiments only in MCF-7 cells after extract treatment, confirming NF-kB inactivation. These data highlight the potential of G. cydonium for future drug discovery against major diseases, such as breast cancer.