Anti-Inflammatory Effects of High Hydrostatic Pressure Extract of Mulberry (Morus alba) Fruit on LPS-Stimulated RAW264.7 Cells

Subchronic oral toxicity study of the synbiotic mulberry in male and female Wistar rats

Mulberry (Morus alba L) fruit is traditionally used in Chinese medicine and has several beneficial effects, such as hypoglycemic, hypolipidemic, and anti-oxidative effects. We previously developed the synbiotic mulberry (SM) containing probiotic Lactobacilli, prebiotic inulin, and mulberry powder. In food supplement development, toxicity is the most important criterion in food and drug regulations before commercialization. Thus, this study aimed to investigate the subchronic toxicity of SM in male and female Wistar rats to evaluate its biosafety. The subchronic toxicity study was conducted by daily oral administration of SM at doses of 250, 500, and 1000 mg/kgBW for 90 days. Male and female rats were evaluated for body weight, organ coefficients, biochemical and hematological parameters, and vital organ histology. The results showed no mortality or toxic changes in the subchronic toxicity study. These results suggested that no observed adverse effect level (NOAEL) of SM in male and female rats has been considered at 1000 mg/kgBW for subchronic toxicity study.

Macroporous resin purification of phenolics from Irish apple pomace: Chemical characterization, and cellular antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities

Apple pomace (AP) is a highly prevalent waste product worldwide in the fruit processing sector. This study compared the chemical profile, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory activities of crude (CE) and an extract purified using XAD-7 resin (PE). The purification process increased the total phenolic content, flavonoids, and tannins by 3.35, 40.31, and 8.87-fold, respectively. The main phenolic compounds identified in PE were phlorizin (20.54 mg/g), chlorogenic acid (10.01 mg/g), and hyperoside (2.77 mg/g). No difference was found between CE and PE in protecting human plasma against oxidation. In human erythrocytes, both CE and PE decreased the reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation and decreased lipoperoxidation. However, PE had stronger anti-inflammatory effects than CE by promoting HO-1 gene expression, suppressing NO production, and inhibiting IL-1β, IL-6, and IL-10 mRNA expression in lipopolysaccharide-challenged RAW.264.7 macrophages. Therefore, purifying apple pomace crude extract is a promising approach to boosting valuable antioxidants and anti-inflammatory phenolics.

Terfezia boudieri and Terfezia claveryi inhibit the LPS/IFN-γ-mediated inflammation in RAW 264.7 macrophages through an Nrf2-independent mechanism

Desert truffles have been used as traditional treatments for numerous inflammatory disorders. However, the molecular mechanisms underlying their anti-inflammatory effects in RAW 264.7 macrophages have yet to be fully elucidated. The present study investigated the anti-inflammatory activities of two main desert truffles, Terfezia boudieri and T. claveryi, and the underlying mechanisms associated with their anti-inflammatory activities in RAW 264.7 macrophages stimulated with lipopolysaccharide/interferon-gamma (LPS/IFN-γ). Our results demonstrated that treatment with T. boudieri and T. claveryi extracts effectively suppressed the inflammatory response in LPS/IFN-γ-stimulated RAW 264.7 macrophages. Specifically, T. boudieri extract was found to reduce the production of nitric oxide and inhibit the expression of various pro-inflammatory markers, including inducible nitric oxide synthase, cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2), tumor necrosis factor-α, and interleukin-6 (IL-6) at both the mRNA and protein levels. Similarly, T. claveryi extract exhibited comparable inhibitory effects, except for the expression of IL-6 and COX-2 at the protein level, where no significant effect was observed. Moreover, both studied extracts significantly downregulated the microRNA expression levels of miR-21, miR-146a, and miR-155, suggesting that T. boudieri and T. claveryi suppress the inflammatory response in LPS/IFN-γ-stimulated RAW 264.7 cells through an epigenetic mechanism. Furthermore, our study reveals a new mechanism for the anti-inflammatory properties of desert truffle extracts. We show for the first time that Terfezia extracts do not rely on the nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 pathway, previously linked to anti-inflammatory responses. This expands our understanding of natural product anti-inflammatory mechanisms and could have important implications for developing new therapies. To account for differences in truffle effects, extracts prepared were subjected to secondary metabolites profiling using UPLC-MS. UPLC-MS led to the annotation of 87 secondary metabolites belonging to various classes, including amino acids, carbohydrates, alkaloids, amides, fatty acids, sterols, and phenolic compounds. Therefore, these results indicate that T. boudieri and T. claveryi exhibit anti-inflammatory activities through suppressing multiple inflammatory mediators and cytokines and may be potential anti-inflammatory agents.

Mulberry extract upregulates cholesterol efflux and inhibits p38 MAPK-NLRP3-mediated inflammation in foam cells

The accumulation of foam cells in arterial intima and the accompanied chronic inflammation are considered major causes of neoatherosclerosis and restenosis. However, both the underlying mechanism and effective treatment for the disease are yet to be uncovered. In this study, we combined transcriptome profiling of restenosis artery tissue and bioinformatic analysis to reveal that NLRP3 inflammasome is markedly upregulated in restenosis and that several restenosis-related DEGs are also targets of mulberry extract, a natural dietary supplement used in traditional Chinese medicine. We demonstrated that mulberry extract suppresses the formation of ox-LDL-induced foam cells, possibly by upregulating the cholesterol efflux genes ABCA1 and ABCG1 to inhibit intracellular lipid accumulation. In addition, mulberry extract dampens NLRP3 inflammasome activation by stressing the MAPK signaling pathway. These findings unveil the therapeutic value of mulberry extract in neoatherosclerosis and restenosis treatment by regulating lipid metabolism and inflammatory response of foam cells.

Mulberry extract ameliorates T2DM-related symptoms via AMPK pathway in STZ-HFD-induced C57BL/6J mice

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Mulberry (Morus alba L.) is not only a tasty food but also a beneficial medicinal substance that has been historically used to treat diabetes, as recorded in Tang Ben Cao. Recent research on animal models has shown that the ethyl acetate extract of Morus alba L. fruits (EMF) has hypoglycemic and hypolipidemic properties. However, there is a lack of documentation on the specific mechanisms through which EMF exerts its hypoglycemic effects.

OBJECTIVE OF THE STUDY

This study aimed to investigate the impact of EMF on L6 cells and C57/BL6J mice and to elucidate the potential mechanisms underlying its effects. The findings of this study can contribute to the existing evidence for the application of EMF as a therapeutic drug or dietary supplement in the management of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The UPLC-Q-TOF-MS technique was utilized to gather MS data. Masslynx 4.1 software in conjunction with the SciFinder database and other relevant references were used to analyze and identify the chemical composition of EMF. A series of in vitro investigations including MTT assay, glucose uptake assay and Western blot analysis were performed using an L6 cell model stably expressing IRAP-mOrange after EMF treatment. In vivo investigations were performed on a STZ-HFD co-induced T2DM mouse model, which included assessments of body composition, biochemical tests, histopathological analysis, and Western blot analysis.

RESULTS

MTT results revealed that EMF had no toxic effects on the cells at various concentrations. When EMF was administered to L6 cells, there was an increase in glucose transporter type 4 (GLUT4) translocation activity and a significant dose-dependent enhancement of glucose uptake by L6 myotubes. EMF treatment led to a marked increase in P-AMPK levels and GLUT4 expression in the cells, but these effects were reversed by an AMPK inhibitor (Compound C). In diabetic mice with STZ-HFD-induced diabetes, EMF treatment improved oral glucose tolerance, hyperglycemia, and hyperinsulinemia. Furthermore, EMF supplementation significantly reduced insulin resistance (IR) in diabetic mice, as evaluated using a steady-state model of the insulin resistance index. Histopathological sections demonstrated that acute EMF treatment reduced hepatic steatosis, pancreatic damage, and adipocyte hypertrophy. Western blot analysis demonstrated that EMF treatment also reduced abnormally high PPARγ expression, elevated the level of p-AMPK and p-ACC, and augmented the abundance of GLUT4 in insulin-sensitive peripheral tissues.

SUMMARY

The results suggest that EMF may exert beneficial effects on T2DM through the AMPK/GLUT4 and AMPK/ACC pathways, as well as by regulating PPARγ expression.

Engineering fucoxanthin-loaded probiotics' membrane vesicles for the dietary intervention of colitis

Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are very attractive as carriers of active components due to their good immunological and their ability to penetrate the physiological barrier that synthetic delivery carriers cannot penetrate. However, the low secretion capacity of EVs limited its widespread adoption, let alone the lower yield of EVs loaded with active components. Here, we report a large-scale engineering preparation strategy of synthetic probiotic membrane vesicles for encapsulating fucoxanthin (FX-MVs), an intervention for colitis. Compared with the EVs naturally secreted by probiotics, the engineering membrane vesicles showed a 150-fold yield and richer protein. Moreover, FX-MVs improved the gastrointestinal stability of fucoxanthin and inhibited H₂O₂-induced oxidative damage by scavenging free radicals effectively (p < 0.05). The in vivo results showed that FX-MVs could promote the polarization of macrophages to M2 type, prevent the injury and shortening of colon tissue (p < 0.05), and improve the colonic inflammatory response. Consistently, proinflammatory cytokines were effectively suppressed after FX-MVs treatment (p < 0.05). Unexpectedly, such engineering FX-MVs could also reshape the gut microbiota communities and improve the abundance of short-chain fatty acids in the colon. This study lays a foundation for developing dietary interventions using natural foods to treat intestinal-related diseases.

Morus alba: a comprehensive phytochemical and pharmacological review

Morus alba is a fast-growing shrub or medium-sized tree with a straight, cylindrical trunk. Medicinally, whole plants, leaves, fruits, branches, and roots have been employed. Google Scholar, PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science were used to search for relevant material on the phytochemical components and pharmacologic and mechanism of action of the Morus alba. This was reviewed to assess important updates about Morus alba. The fruits of Morus alba have traditionally been used as an analgesic, anthelmintic, antibacterial, anti-rheumatic, diuretic, hypotensive, hypoglycemia, purgative, restorative, sedative tonic, and blood stimulant. Various plant parts were used as a cooling, sedating, diuretic, tonic, and astringent agent to treat nerve disorders. The plant contained tannins, steroids, phytosterols, sitosterol, glycosides, alkaloids, carbohydrates, proteins, and amino acids, as well as saponins, triterpenes, phenolics, flavonoids, benzofuran derivatives, anthocyanins, anthraquinones, glycosides, vitamins, and minerals. Previous pharmacological research identified antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, immunological, analgesic, antipyretic, antioxidant, anti-cancer, antidiabetic, gastrointestinal, respiratory, cardiovascular, hypolipidemic, anti-obesity, dermatological, neurological, muscular, and protecting effects. This study looked at Morus alba's traditional uses, chemical components, and pharmacological effects.

Comparison of In Vitro Estrogenic Activity of Polygoni multiflori Radix and Cynanchi wilfordii Radix via the Enhancement of ERα/β Expression in MCF7 Cells

Postmenopausal women experience several symptoms, including inflammation and a sharp rise in oxidative stress caused by estrogen deprivation. Although estrogen replacement therapy (ERT) is generally regarded as an effective treatment for menopause, it has been used less frequently due to some adverse effects and high costs. Therefore, there is an immediate need to develop an effective herbal-based treatment that is affordable for low-income populations. Acordingly, this study explored the estrogen-like properties of methanol extracts from Cynanchum wilfordii (CW) and Poligonum multiflorum (PM), two important medicinal plants in Republic of Korea, Japan, and China. Due to the similar names and morphologies of these two radixes, they are frequently confused in the marketplace. Our previous colleagues discriminated between these two plants. In this study, we investigated the estrogenic activity of PM and CW using several in vitro assays with their possible mechanism of action. First, their phytochemical contents, such as gallic acid, 2,3,5,4'-tetrahydroxystilbene-2-O-glucoside (TSG) and emodin, were quantified using high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). Secondly, estrogen-like activity was assessed utilizing the well-known E-screen test and gene expression analysis in estrogen receptor (ER)-positive MCF7 cells. ROS inhibition and anti-inflammatory effects were analyzed using HaCaT and Raw 264.7 cells, respectively. Our findings demonstrate that PM extracts significantly increased the expression of the estrogen-dependent genes (ERα, ERβ, pS2) and boosted MCF7 cell proliferation in comparison to CW extracts. Additionally, PM extract demonstrated a significant reduction in reactive oxygen species (ROS) production as well as an enhanced antioxidant profile compared to the CW extract. Further, the PM extract treatment significantly reduced the generation of nitric oxide (NO) in RAW 264.7 cells, a murine macrophage cell line, demonstrating the anti-inflammatory properties of the extract. Finally, this research offers an experimental foundation for the use of PM as a phytoestrogen to minimize menopausal symptoms.

Mulberry plant as a source of functional food with therapeutic and nutritional applications: A review

Medicinal plants from the family Moraceae have diverse applications in agriculture, cosmetics, food, and the pharmaceutical industry. Their extensive spectrum of pharmacological activity for treating numerous inflammatory illnesses, cancer, cardiovascular diseases, and gastrointestinal problems reflects their biological and therapeutic value. This article summarizes the molecular mechanisms related to the biological implications of mulberry extracts, fractions, and isolated bioactive compounds from different parts in various health-related ailments. Additionally, the food industry and animal nutrition applications are summarized. Phytochemicals such as steroids, saponins, alkaloids, glycosides, polysaccharides, and phenolic compounds including terpenoids, flavonoids, anthocyanins, and tannins are found in this medicinal plant. The aqueous, ethanolic, and methanolic extracts, as well as bioactive compounds, have anti-oxidative, hypoglycemic, nephroprotective, antimicrobial, neuroprotective, anti-mutagenic, hepatoprotective, anthelmintic, immune-modulatory, cardioprotective, and skin protecting activities. Mulberry supplementation in food products improves the stability of phenolics, sensory properties, antioxidant activity, and antimicrobial properties. Mulberry leaves in animal feed increase the nutrient digestibility, growth parameters, antimicrobial, and antioxidant properties. PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS: This review summarized the in vivo and in vitro biological activities of the mulberry and isolated constituents in various health conditions. In addition, the food uses such as antioxidant potential, antimicrobial, and physicochemical properties were discussed. Furthermore, in vivo studies revealed mulberry as a significant protein source and its flavonoids as potential animal foliage.

Dietary anthocyanins balance immune signs in osteoarthritis and obesity - update of human in vitro studies and clinical trials

Anthocyanins are known to change ligand-receptor bindings, cell membrane permeability, and intracellular signaling pathways. The beneficial effects of dietary anthocyanins have been chronologically demonstrated in interventional and observational studies, including fourteen human chondrocyte studies and related cell culture assays, nineteen human clinical trials in osteoarthritis patients, seven in vivo obesity assays, nineteen in vitro assays in preadipocytes and related cells, and twenty-two clinical trials in overweight/obese subjects, which are critically discussed in this update. Strawberries, cherries, berries, pomegranate, tropical fruits, rosehip, purple rice, purple corn, red beans, and black soybean, together with cyanidin, delphinidin, malvidin, peonidin, some 3-O-glycosides, metabolites, and acylated anthocyanins from a potato cultivar have shown the best outcomes. The set of these five key tests and clinical trials, taken together, contributes to the understanding of the underlying mechanisms and pathways involved. Furthermore, this set shows the value of anthocyanins in counteracting the progression of osteoarthritis/obesity. The interplay between the inflammation of osteoarthritis and obesity, and the subsequent regulation/immunomodulation was performed through isolated and food anthocyanins. The antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and immunomodulatory properties of anthocyanins explain the findings of the studies analyzed. However, further interventional studies should be conducted to finally establish the appropriate doses for anthocyanin supplementation, dose-response, and length of consumption, to include dietary recommendations for osteoarthritis/obese patients for preventive and management purposes.

Mulberry vinegar attenuates lipopolysaccharide and interferon gamma-induced inflammatory responses in C6 glial cells

The present study evaluated the effect of mulberry vinegar (MV) on the regulation of the inflammatory responses using C6 glial cells. Treatment with lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and interferon-γ (IFN-γ) induced the nitric oxide and reactive oxygen species generation, while pre-incubation with MV inhibited these formations in a concentration-dependent manner. MV treatment also decreased the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines, such as interleukin-1β (IL-1β), IL-6, and tumor necrosis factor-α in C6 glial cells stimulated by LPS/IFN-γ. Compared to the LPS/IFN-γ-treated control group, the MV-treated group exerts downregulation in the protein expressions of inducible nitric oxide synthase and cyclooxygenase-2, through inhibition of nuclear factor-κB activation. Protein expressions of glial fibrillary acidic protein and ionized calcium-binding adapter molecule 1 were also decreased in the MV-treated group. These findings suggest that MV prevents neuroinflammation by regulating the NF-κB signaling pathway and glial activation. PRACTICAL APPLICATION: Mulberry fruits (Morus alba L.) have been commonly consumed as juice or jam. It is a rich source of anthocyanins that might be associated with beneficial effects on human health, including the anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-obesity, and anti-diabetic effects. Mulberry vinegar was produced by alcohol and acetic fermentation of mulberry juice, and they possessed a protective effect against LPS/IFN-γ-stimulated inflammatory responses in glial cells via regulation of glial activation and NF-κB signaling pathway (i.e., downregulation of iNOS, COX-2, TLR4, p-IκB, and NF-κB p65 protein expressions). Although further research especially animal and clinical trials are still necessary, the present study will be helpful to scale-up the production of functional vinegar with neuroprotective and anti-inflammatory properties using mulberry.

Oreocharioside A-G, new acylated C-glycosylflavones from Oreocharis auricula (Gesneriaceae)

Seven new acylated C-glycosylflavones, oreocharioside A-G, together with two known compounds were isolated from the whole plant of Oreocharis auricula. Their structures were characterized by the comprehensive analysis of their NMR, IR, UV, CD spectra and HRESIMS data. All the new compounds were evaluated for the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities. The results showed that compounds 1 and 2 had significant DPPH and ABTS radical scavenging activities, with the IC₅₀ values of 0.32-3.20 μg/mL. Compounds 2 and 3 exhibited the higher potency among all the new compounds in reducing TNF-α production.

Antioxidant and Anti-Inflammatory Activities of Phytochemicals from Ruellia tuberosa

In Vietnam, the aerial parts of Ruellia tuberosa L. are used to treat stress oxidation and inflammatory symptoms in diabetes mellitus. The present study was designed to determine the antioxidant and inflammatory inhibition activities of Ruellia tuberosa L. extract (RTE) and those of the isolated compounds by column chromatography. The crude ethanol extract and ethyl acetate fraction exhibited potent antioxidant activity in the 2,2-diphenyl-1-picryl-hydrazyl-hydrate (DPPH) and 2,2-azinobis-(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonate) (ABTS) assays with an IC50 of 25.18 and 14.71 (DPPH test) and 18.22 and 15.27 µg/ml (ABTS test), respectively. The RTE contained high concentrations of polyphenols (308.21 mg GAE/g) and moderate concentrations of flavonoids (97.80 mg QE/g). In the anti-inflammatory screening assay, the crude ethanol extract, ethyl acetate, and methanol fractions suppressed the release of IL-6 and nitric oxide production, but the production of IL-10 was not enhanced in LPS-induced RAW 264.7 cells. Three potential anti-inflammatory compounds as hispidulin (6), physalin E (7), and physalin D (8) along with five other compounds named myricitrin (1), afzelin (2), apigenin (3), taraxerol (4), and lupeol (5) were isolated and identified from the ethyl acetate fraction. Physalin D (8) exhibited a strong, dose-dependent anti-inflammatory activity by inhibiting the production of IL-6 proinflammatory cytokines; however, the IL-10 expression was independent of its concentration in macrophages at noncytotoxic concentrations ranging from 5 to 40 μg/mL. Based on the data obtained, compounds 6–8 sourced from Ruellia tuberosa L are potentially bioactive compounds for the treatment of inflammation symptoms in type 2 diabetes mellitus.

Mulberry (Morus alba L.) Fruit Extract Ameliorates Inflammation via Regulating MicroRNA-21/132/143 Expression and Increases the Skeletal Muscle Mitochondrial Content and AMPK/SIRT Activities

The Mulberry (Morus alba L.) fruit is a rich source of polyphenolic compounds; most of these are anthocyanins. Obesity is intimately related to low-grade inflammation, with increased pro-inflammatory cytokine secretion and macrophage infiltration in white adipose tissue (WAT). This study investigated whether mulberry fruit extract (ME) has beneficial effects on obesity-induced inflammation and skeletal muscle mitochondrial dysfunction. Sprague-Dawley rats were divided into four groups and fed either a low-fat diet (LFD), high-fat diet (HFD), HFD + 5 g/kg of ME (ME-L), or HFD + 10 g/kg of ME (ME-H) for 14 weeks. ME alleviated dyslipidemia and lipid accumulation, as well as pro-inflammatory cytokine production such as tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interleukin 6 (IL-6), and monocyte chemoattractant protein 1 (MCP1) in the WAT. ME mitigated nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells (NF-κB) phosphorylation and macrophage infiltration in WAT. Notably, microRNA (miR)-21, miR-132, and miR-43 expressions were downregulated in the WAT of the ME groups compared to the HFD group. Moreover, ME increased the mitochondrial size and mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) content, as well as key genes’ expression related to mitochondrial function, including sirtuin (SIRT)1, peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ coactivator-1α (PGC-1α), carnitine palmitoyltransferase 1β (CPT-1β), and uncoupling protein 3 (UCP3), and adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase (AMPK)/SIRT activities in skeletal muscle. These results suggested that ME might alleviate obesity-induced inflammation and mitochondrial dysfunction by regulating miR-21, miR-132, and miR-43 expression in WAT, and by activating the PGC-1α/SIRT1 pathway in muscle.

Bioactive Phytochemicals from Mulberry: Potential Anti-Inflammatory Effects in Lipopolysaccharide-Stimulated RAW 264.7 Macrophages

The fruits of the mulberry tree (Morus alba L.), known as white mulberry, have been consumed in various forms, including tea, beverages, and desserts, worldwide. As part of an ongoing study to discover bioactive compounds from M. alba fruits, the anti-inflammatory effect of compounds from M. alba were evaluated in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated mouse RAW 264.7 macrophages. Phytochemical analysis of the ethanol extract of the M. alba fruits led to the isolation of 22 compounds. Among the isolated compounds, to the best of our knowledge, compounds 1, 3, 5, 7, 11, 12, and 14-22 were identified from M. alba fruits for the first time in this study. Inhibitory effects of 22 compounds on the production of the nitric oxide (NO) known as a proinflammatory mediator in LPS-stimulated RAW 264.7 macrophages were evaluated using NO assays. Western blot analysis was performed to evaluate the anti-inflammatory effects of cyclo(L-Pro-L-Val) (5). We evaluated whether the anti-inflammatory effects of cyclo(L-Pro-L-Val) (5) following LPS stimulation in RAW 264.7 macrophages occurred because of phosphorylation of IκB kinase alpha (IKKα), IκB kinase beta (IKKβ), inhibitor of kappa B alpha (IκBα), nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) and activations of inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), and cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2). Cyclo(L-Pro-L-Val) (5) significantly suppressed phosphorylations of IKKα, IKKβ, IκBα, and NF-κB and activations of iNOS and COX-2 in a concentration-dependent manner. Taken together, these results indicate that cyclo(L-Pro-L-Val) (5) can be considered a potential therapeutic agent for the treatment of inflammation-associated disorders.

High hydrostatic pressure extract of mulberry leaves ameliorates hypercholesterolemia via modulating hepatic microRNA-33 expression and AMPK activity in high cholesterol diet fed rats

Background

Mulberry leaf (Morus alba L.) contains multiple bioactive ingredients and has been used in the treatment of obesity, diabetes, inflammation, and atherosclerosis. High hydrostatic pressure (HHP) processing has been developed for the extraction of bioactive compounds from plants. However, the hypocholesterolemic effect of the HHP extract from mulberry leaves and its underlying mechanism have never been investigated.

Objective

The specific aim of the present study was to investigate the hypocholesterolemic property of a novel extract obtained from mulberry leaves under HHP in rats.

Design

Sprague–Dawley rats were divided into four groups and fed either a normal diet (NOR), a high cholesterol diet containing 1% cholesterol and 0.5% cholic acid (HC), an HC diet containing 0.5% mulberry leaf extract (ML), or a 1% mulberry leaf extract (MH) for 4 weeks.

Results

High hydrostatic pressure extract of mulberry leaves significantly reduced the HC-increased serum levels of triglyceride (TG), cholesterol (TC) and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), and hepatic contents of TG and TC. The HHP extraction from mulberry leaves also increased the HC-decreased fecal TC and bile acid levels without changing body weight, food intake, liver weight, and serum activities of alanine transaminase (ALT) and aspartate transaminase (AST) (P < 0.05). The mulberry leaf extract significantly enhanced the expression of hepatic genes such as cholesterol 7 alpha-hydroxylase (CYP7A1), liver X receptor alpha (LXRα), and ATP-binding cassette transporters, ABCG5/ABCG8, involved in hepatic bile acid synthesis and cholesterol efflux (P < 0.05). In addition, the HHP extraction of mulberry leaves significantly suppressed hepatic microRNA(miR)-33 expression and increased adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase (AMPK) activity.

Conclusion

These results suggest that the HHP extract of mulberry leaves lowers serum cholesterol levels by partially increasing hepatic bile acid synthesis and fecal cholesterol excretion through the modulation of miR-33 expression and AMPK activation in the liver.

Nutritional constituents of mulberry and their potential applications in food and pharmaceuticals: A review

Mulberry is a fast growing deciduous plant found in wide variety of climatic, topographical and soil conditions, and is widely distributed from temperate to subtropical regions. Due to presence of valuable phytochemical constituents, mulberry as a whole plant has been utilized as a functional food since long time. Mulberry fruits are difficult to preserve as they have relatively high water content. Therefore for proper utilization, different value-added products like syrups, squashes, teas, pestil sand köme, pekmez (turkuish by-products), yogurts, jams, jellies, wines, vinegar, breads, biscuits, parathas, and many more are made. In overseas, these value-added products are commercially sold and easily available, though in India, this versatile medicinal plant is still missing its identity at commercial and industrial scale. Leaves of mulberry are economically viable due to their important role in the sericulture industry since ancient times. Mulberries or its extracts exhibit excellent anti-microbial, anti-hyperglycaemic, anti-hyperlipidemic, anti-inflammatory, anti-cancer effects and is used to combat different acute and chronic diseases. Different parts of Morus species like fruits, leaves, twigs, and bark exhibit strong anti-tyrosinase inhibition activity that makes it a suitable candidate in cosmetic industries as a whitening agent. The current review provides a comprehensive discussion concerning the phytochemical constituents, functionality and nutraceutical potential of mulberry and as a common ingredient in various cosmetic products.

Indian Medicinal Plants and Formulations and Their Potential Against COVID-19-Preclinical and Clinical Research

The cases of COVID-19 are still increasing day-by-day worldwide, even after a year of its first occurrence in Wuhan city of China. The spreading of SARS-CoV-2 infection is very fast and different from other SARS-CoV infections possibly due to structural differences in S proteins. The patients with severe diseases may die due to acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) caused by systemic inflammatory reactions due to the excessive release of pro-inflammatory cytokines and chemokines by the immune effector cells. In India too, it is spreading very rapidly, although the case fatality rate is below 1.50% (https://www.statista.com), which is markedly less than in other countries, despite the dense population and minimal health infrastructure in rural areas. This may be due to the routine use of many immunomodulator medicinal plants and traditional AYUSH formulations by the Indian people. This communication reviews the AYUSH recommended formulations and their ingredients, routinely used medicinal plants and formulations by Indian population as well as other promising Indian medicinal plants, which can be tested against COVID-19. Special emphasis is placed on Indian medicinal plants reported for antiviral, immunomodulatory and anti-allergic/anti-inflammatory activities and they are categorized for prioritization in research on the basis of earlier reports. The traditional AYUSH medicines currently under clinical trials against COVID-19 are also discussed as well as furtherance of pre-clinical and clinical testing of the potential traditional medicines against COVID-19 and SARS-CoV-2. The results of the clinical studies on AYUSH drugs will guide the policymakers from the AYUSH systems of medicines to maneuver their policies for public health, provide information to the global scientific community and could form a platform for collaborative studies at national and global levels. It is thereby suggested that promising AYUSH formulations and Indian medicinal plants must be investigated on a priority basis to solve the current crisis.

Quinolizidine alkaloids from Sophora alopecuroides with anti-inflammatory and anti-tumor properties

Forty-three quinolizidine alkaloids (1-43), including twelve new matrine-type ones, sophalodes A-L (1-7, 17, 19 and 28-30), were isolated from the seeds of Sophora alopecuroides. Structurally, compounds 1-4 were the first examples of C-11 oxidized matrine-type alkaloids from Sophora plants. The structures and absolute configurations of new compounds were elucidated by extensive spectroscopic techniques, X-ray diffraction analysis, and quantum chemical calculation. In addition, the NMR data and absolute configuration of compound 18 was reported for the first time. All the isolates were evaluated for their inhibition on nitric oxide production induced by lipopolysaccharide in RAW 264.7 macrophages, among them, compounds 29, 38 and 42 exhibited the most significant activity with IC₅₀ values of 29.19, 25.86 and 33.30 μM, respectively. Further research about new compound 29 showed that it also suppressed the protein levels of iNOS and COX-2, which revealed its anti-inflammatory potential. Moreover, additional research showed that compound 16 exhibited marginal cytotoxicity against HeLa cell lines, with an IC₅₀ value of 24.27 μM.

Antioxidant and Anti-Inflammatory Effects of White Mulberry (Morus alba L.) Fruits on Lipopolysaccharide-Stimulated RAW 264.7 Macrophages

In this study, the protective effects of white mulberry (Morus alba) fruits on lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated RAW 264.7 macrophages were investigated. The ethanol (EtOH) extract of white mulberry fruits and its derived fractions contained adequate total phenolic and flavonoid contents, with good in vitro antioxidant radical scavenging activity. The extract and fractions also markedly inhibited ROS generation and antioxidant activity. After treatment with the EtOH extract and its fractions, LPS stimulation-induced elevated nitric oxide (NO) production was restored, which was primarily mediated by downregulation of inducible NO synthase expression. A total of 20 chemical constituents including flavonoids, steroids, and phenolics were identified in the fractions using ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography (UHPLC)-quadrupole time-of-flight (QTOF) high-resolution mass spectrometry (HRMS). These findings provide experimental evidence of the protective effects of white mulberry fruit extract against oxidative stress and inflammatory responses, suggesting their nutraceutical and pharmaceutical potential as natural antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agents.

Coumarin and Moracin Derivatives from Mulberry Leaves (Morus alba L.) with Soluble Epoxide Hydrolase Inhibitory Activity

This study identified three coumarins (1-3), and six moracin derivatives (4-9). The structures of these natural compounds were determined by the spectroscopic methods, including 1D and 2D NMR methods, and comparison with previous reported data. All of the isolated compounds were assessed for the effects on the soluble epoxide hydrolase (sEH) inhibitory activity. Among them, compounds 1-7 exhibited significant inhibitory effect with 100% inhibitory, with IC₅₀ values of 6.9, 0.2, 15.9, 1.1, 1.2, 9.9, and 7.7 µM, respectively. A kinetic study revealed that compounds 1-4, and 6 were competitive types of inhibitors, compounds 5 and 7 were mixed types of inhibitors. These results suggest that moracin and coumarin derivatives from mulberry leaves are significant sEH inhibitors.

Kmeria duperreana (Pierre) Dandy Extract Suppresses LPS-Induced iNOS and NO via Regulation of NF-κB Pathways and p38 in Murin Macrophage RAW 264.7 Cells

Development of anti-inflammatory products remains in high demand due to the incidence of inflammatory diseases, including diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and neurodegenerative diseases. In this study, we examined the potential anti-inflammatory activity of the nutraceutical, Kmeria duperreana (Pierre) Dandy extract (KDE). We evaluated the ability of KDE to inhibit lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced inflammatory markers, including nitric oxide (NO), nuclear factor kappa-B, and mitogen-activated protein kinases, in RAW 264.7 cells. KDE suppressed LPS-induced nitrite production and inducible NO synthase (iNOS) expression in RAW 264.7 cells, but has no effect on cyclooxygenase-2 expression. KDE also suppressed LPS-induced phosphorylation of p65, IκB kinase, and p38 in RAW 264.7 cells. Through Western blot assays and immunofluorescence results, we showed that KDE suppresses LPS-induced p65 translocation from cytosol to the nucleus in RAW 264.7 cells. Moreover, KDE suppressed mRNA expression of LPS-induced interleukin (IL)-1β in RAW 264.7 cells, but had no effect on mRNA expression of IL-6 or tumor necrosis factor-a. These results demonstrate that KDE may be a promising anti-inflammatory nutraceutical. KDE may act by suppressing iNOS expression and subsequent NO production by inhibiting phosphorylation of p65 and p38 and suppressing translocation of p65 from the cytosol to the nucleus.

Mulberry Fruit Extract Promotes Serum HDL-Cholesterol Levels and Suppresses Hepatic microRNA-33 Expression in Rats Fed High Cholesterol/Cholic Acid Diet

Serum high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) levels and cholesterol excretion are closely associated with the risk of cardiovascular complications. The specific aim of the present study was to investigate the cholesterol lowering effect of mulberry fruit in rats fed a high cholesterol/cholic acid diet. Four-week supplementation with mulberry fruit extract significantly decreased serum and hepatic cholesterol (TC), serum low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), and fecal bile acid levels without changes in body weight and food intake (p < 0.05). Mulberry fruit extract significantly inhibited hepatic sterol-regulatory element binding protein (Srebp) 2 gene expression and upregulated hepatic mRNA levels of liver X receptor alpha (Lxr-α), ATP-binding cassette transporter 5 (Abcg5), and cholesterol 7 alpha-hydroxylase (Cyp7a1), which are involved in hepatic bile acid synthesis and cholesterol metabolism (p < 0.05). In addition, hepatic microRNA-33 expression was significantly inhibited by supplementation of mulberry fruit extract (p < 0.05). These results suggest the involvement of miR-33, its associated hepatic bile acid synthesis, HDL formation, and cholesterol metabolism in mulberry fruit-mediated beneficial effects on serum and hepatic lipid abnormalities.

Croton hirtus L'Hér Extract Prevents Inflammation in RAW264.7 Macrophages Via Inhibition of NF-κB Signaling Pathway

Consumption of anti-inflammatory nutraceuticals may help treat or prevent inflammation-related illnesses such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and cancer. This study evaluated the effect of Croton hirtus L'Hér extract (CHE) on lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced nitric oxide (NO) production and nuclear factor kappa-B (NF-κB) signaling cascades. CHE significantly suppressed LPS-induced NO production and inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) expression in RAW264.7 macrophages, although cyclooxygenase (COX)-2 expression was not affected. CHE also suppressed LPS-induced IκB kinase (IKK), IκB, and p65 phosphorylation in RAW264.7 cells. Western blot and immunofluorescence assays of cytosol and nuclear p65 and the catalytic subunit of NF-κB showed that CHE suppressed LPS-induced p65 translocation from the cytosol to the nucleus. CHE also suppressed LPS-induced Interleukin (IL)-6 and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α production in RAW264.7 cells. These results suggest that CHE prevents NO-mediated inflammation by suppressing NF-κB and inflammatory cytokines.

Mulberry Fruit Extract Ameliorates Adipogenesis via Increasing AMPK Activity and Downregulating MicroRNA-21/143 in 3T3-L1 Adipocytes

Mulberry (Morus alba L.) fruits have long been used in traditional medicine and as edible berries in many countries. This study investigated the antiadipogenic effect of high hydrostatic pressure mulberry fruit extract (MFE) during 3T3-L1 adipocyte differentiation. MFE decreased lipid and triglyceride accumulation and glycerol-3-phosphate dehydrogenase activity. The mRNA expression levels of genes related to adipogenesis, such as the adipocyte protein 2, proliferator-activated receptor-γ, and CCAAT/enhancer binding protein-α, were suppressed by MFE. They also reduced microRNA (miR)-21 and miR-143 expression, which are involved in adipogenesis. In contrast, adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase (AMPK) activity was increased by MFE. These results suggested that MFE may suppress adipogenesis through modulating miR-21/143 expression and AMPK activity in 3T3-L1 adipocytes, which may be useful as antiobesity food agents.