1
|
Vaidya VG, Naik NN, Ganu G, Parmar V, Jagtap S, Saste G, Bhatt A, Mulay V, Girme A, Modi SJ, Hingorani L. Clinical pharmacokinetic evaluation of Withania somnifera (L.) Dunal root extract in healthy human volunteers: A non-randomized, single dose study utilizing UHPLC-MS/MS analysis. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2024; 322:117603. [PMID: 38122911 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2023.117603] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2023] [Revised: 11/17/2023] [Accepted: 12/13/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Withania somnifera (L.) Dunal; (Solanaceae), commonly known as Ashwagandha, is one of the most significant medicinal herbs in 'Ayurveda', a traditional Indian medicine used for centuries with evidence in scriptures. Ashwagandha was mentioned in old Ayurvedic medical literature such as Charaka Samhita and Sushruta Samhita for improving weight and strength, with multiple citations for internal and exterior usage in emaciation and nourishing the body. Ethnopharmacological evidence revealed that it was used to relieve inflammation, reduce abdominal swelling, as a mild purgative, and treat swollen glands. The root was regarded as a tonic, aphrodisiac, and emmenagogue in the Unani tradition of the Indian medicinal system. Further, Ashwagandha has been also described as an Ayurvedic medicinal plant in the Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India extending informed therapeutic usage and formulations. Despite the widespread ethnopharmacological usage of Ashwagandha, clinical pharmacokinetic parameters are lacking in the literature; hence, the findings of this study will be relevant for calculating doses for future clinical evaluations of Ashwagandha root extract. AIM This study aimed to develop a validated and highly sensitive bioanalytical method for quantifying withanosides and withanolides of the Ashwagandha root extract in human plasma to explore its bioaccessibility. Further to apply a developed method to perform pharmacokinetics of standardized Withania somnifera (L.) Dunal root extract (WSE; AgeVel®/Witholytin®) capsules in healthy human volunteers. METHODS A sensitive, reliable, and specific ultra-high pressure liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (UHPLC-MS/MS) method was developed and validated for the simultaneous quantification of five major withanosides and withanolides (withanoside IV, withanoside V, withanolide A, withaferin A, and 12-deoxy-withastramonolide) in human plasma. Further for the study, eighteen healthy male volunteers (18-45 years) were enrolled in a non-randomized, open-label, single period, single treatment, clinical pharmacokinetic study and given a single dose (500 mg) of WSE (AgeVel®/Witholytin®) capsules containing not less than 7.5 mg of total withanolides under fasting condition. Later, pharmacokinetic profiles were assessed using the plasma concentration of each bioactive constituent Vs. time data. RESULTS For all five constituents, the bioanalytical method demonstrated high selectivity, specificity, and linearity. There was no carryover, and no matrix effect was observed. Furthermore, the inter-day and intra-day precision and accuracy results fulfilled the acceptance criteria. Upon oral administration of WSE capsules, Cmax was found to be 0.639 ± 0.211, 2.926 ± 1.317, 2.833 ± 0.981, and 5.498 ± 1.986 ng/mL for withanoside IV, withanolide A, withaferin A, and 12-deoxy-withastramonolide with Tmax of 1.639 ± 0.993, 1.361 ± 0.850, 0.903 ± 0.273, and 1.375 ± 0.510 h respectively. Further, withanoside V was also detected in plasma; but its concentration was found below LLOQ. CONCLUSION The novel and first-time developed bioanalytical method was successfully applied for the quantification of five bio-active constituents in human volunteers following administration of WSE capsules, indicating that withanosides and withanolides were rapidly absorbed from the stomach, have high oral bioavailability, and an optimum half-life to produce significant pharmacological activity. Further, AgeVel®/Witholytin® was found safe and well tolerated after oral administration, with no adverse reaction observed at a 500 mg dose.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Vidyadhar G Vaidya
- Lokmanya Medical Research Centre and Hospital, Pune, 411033, Maharashtra, India.
| | - Ninad N Naik
- Lokmanya Medical Research Centre and Hospital, Pune, 411033, Maharashtra, India.
| | - Gayatri Ganu
- Mprex Healthcare Pvt. Ltd., Pune, 411057, Maharashtra, India.
| | - Vijay Parmar
- Pharmanza Herbal Pvt. Ltd., Anand, 388430, Gujarat, India.
| | - Shubham Jagtap
- Pharmanza Herbal Pvt. Ltd., Anand, 388430, Gujarat, India.
| | - Ganesh Saste
- Pharmanza Herbal Pvt. Ltd., Anand, 388430, Gujarat, India.
| | - Ankit Bhatt
- Pharmanza Herbal Pvt. Ltd., Anand, 388430, Gujarat, India.
| | - Vallabh Mulay
- Pharmanza Herbal Pvt. Ltd., Anand, 388430, Gujarat, India.
| | - Aboli Girme
- Pharmanza Herbal Pvt. Ltd., Anand, 388430, Gujarat, India.
| | | | - Lal Hingorani
- Pharmanza Herbal Pvt. Ltd., Anand, 388430, Gujarat, India.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Dutra LL, Borges RJ, Maltarollo VG, Mendes TAO, Bressan GC, Leite JPV. In silico evaluation of pharmacokinetics properties of withanolides and simulation of their biological activities against Alzheimer's disease. J Biomol Struct Dyn 2024; 42:2616-2631. [PMID: 37166375 DOI: 10.1080/07391102.2023.2206909] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2022] [Accepted: 04/19/2023] [Indexed: 05/12/2023]
Abstract
The withanolides are naturally occurring steroidal lactones found mainly in plants of the Solanaceae family. The subtribe Withaninae includes species like Withania sominifera, which are a source of many bioactive withanolides. In this work, we selected and evaluate the ADMET-related properties of 91 withanolides found in species of the subtribe Withaninae computationally, to predict the relationship between their structures and their pharmacokinetic profiles. We also evaluated the interaction of these withanolides with known targets of Alzheimer's disease (AD) through molecular docking and molecular dynamics. Withanolides presented favorable pharmacokinetic properties, like high gastrointestinal absorption, lipophilicity (logP ≤ 5), good distribution and excretion parameters, and a favorable toxicity profile. The specie Withania aristata stood out as an interesting source of the promising withanolides classified as 5-ene with 16-ene or 17-ene. These withanolides presented a favourable pharmacokinetic profile and were also highlighted as the best candidates for inhibition of AD-related targets. Our results also suggest that withanolides are likely to act as cholinesterase inhibitors by interacting with the catalytic pocket in an energy favorable and stable way.Communicated by Ramaswamy H. Sarma.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Luana L Dutra
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Universidade Federal de Viçosa, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Rafael J Borges
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Universidade Federal de Viçosa, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Vinícius G Maltarollo
- Pharmaceutical Products Department- Faculty of Pharmacy, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Tiago A O Mendes
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Universidade Federal de Viçosa, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Gustavo C Bressan
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Universidade Federal de Viçosa, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - João Paulo V Leite
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Universidade Federal de Viçosa, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Kumar P, Banik SP, Goel A, Chakraborty S, Bagchi M, Bagchi D. Revisiting the Multifaceted Therapeutic Potential of Withaferin A (WA), a Novel Steroidal Lactone, W-ferinAmax Ashwagandha, from Withania Somnifera (L) Dunal. JOURNAL OF THE AMERICAN NUTRITION ASSOCIATION 2024; 43:115-130. [PMID: 37410676 DOI: 10.1080/27697061.2023.2228863] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2023] [Revised: 06/12/2023] [Accepted: 06/19/2023] [Indexed: 07/08/2023]
Abstract
Withania somnifera (L.) Dunal, abundant in the Indian subcontinent as Ashwagandha or winter cherry, is a herb of unprecedented therapeutic value. The number of ailments for which crude Ashwagandha extract can be used as a preventive or curative is practically limitless; and this explains why its use has been in vogue in ancient Ayurveda since at-least about four thousand years. The therapeutic potential of Ashwagandha mainly owes from its reservoir of alkaloids (isopelletierine, anaferine), steroidal lactones (withanolides) and saponins with an extra acyl group (sitoindoside VII and VIII). Withaferin A is an exceptionally potent withanolide which is found in high concentrations in W. somnifera plant extracts. The high reactivity of Withaferin A owes to the presence of a C-28 ergostane network with multiple sites of unsaturation and differential oxygenation. It interacts with the effectors of multiple signaling pathways involved in inflammatory response, oxidative stress response, cell cycle regulation and synaptic transmission and has been found to be significantly effective in inducing programmed cell death in cancer cells, restoring cognitive health, managing diabetes, alleviating metabolic disorders, and rejuvenating the overall body homeostasis. Additionally, recent studies suggest that Withaferin A (WA) has the potential to prevent viral endocytosis by sequestering TMPRSS2, the host transmembrane protease, without altering ACE-2 expression. The scope of performing subtle structural modifications in this multi-ring compound is believed to further expand its pharmacotherapeutic horizon. Very recently, a novel, heavy metal and pesticide free formulation of Ashwagandha whole herb extract, with a significant amount of WA, termed W-ferinAmax Ashwagandha, has been developed. The present review attempts to fathom the present and future of this wonder molecule with comprehensive discussion on its therapeutic potential, safety and toxicity.Key teaching pointsWithania somnifera (L.) Dunal is a medicinal plant with versatile therapeutic values.The therapeutic potential of the plant owes to the presence of withanolides such as Withaferin A.Withaferin A is a C-28 ergostane based triterpenoid with multiple reactive sites of therapeutic potential.It is effective against a broad spectrum of ailments including neurodegenerative disorders, cancer, inflammatory and oxidative stress disorders and it also promotes cardiovascular and sexual health.W-ferinAmax Ashwagandha, is a heavy metal and pesticide free Ashwagandha whole herb extract based formulation with significant amount of Withaferin A.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Pawan Kumar
- Research and Development Department, Chemical Resources (CHERESO), Panchkula, Haryana, India
| | - Samudra P Banik
- Department of Microbiology, Maulana Azad College, Kolkata, India
| | - Apurva Goel
- Regulatory Department, Chemical Resources (CHERESO), Panchkula, India
| | - Sanjoy Chakraborty
- Department of Biological Sciences, New York City College of Technology/CUNY, Brooklyn, New York, USA
| | - Manashi Bagchi
- Research & Development Department, Dr. Herbs LLC, Concord, California, USA
| | - Debasis Bagchi
- Department of Biology, Adelphi University, Garden City, New York, USA
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Texas Southern University, Houston, Texas, USA
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Vaidya VG, Gothwad A, Ganu G, Girme A, Modi SJ, Hingorani L. Clinical safety and tolerability evaluation of Withania somnifera (L.) Dunal (Ashwagandha) root extract in healthy human volunteers. J Ayurveda Integr Med 2024; 15:100859. [PMID: 38154316 PMCID: PMC10784694 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaim.2023.100859] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2023] [Revised: 10/07/2023] [Accepted: 12/01/2023] [Indexed: 12/30/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Withania somnifera (L.) Dunal, known as Ashwagandha, is an adaptogen with significant importance in Ayurveda for its potential health benefits in strength ('balavardhan') and muscle growth ('mamsavardhan'). Despite numerous studies on its efficacy, limited research is reported on its clinical safety and tolerability in healthy individuals. OBJECTIVE This research evaluated the tolerability and safety of standardized Withania somnifera root extract (WSE) capsules (AgeVel®/Witholytin®) at 1000 mg/day dose upon oral administration in healthy male participants. METHOD A non-randomized, open-label, single-treatment clinical study included eighteen healthy male participants aged 18 to 60. The participants were administered a dose of 500 mg of the WSE capsules twice daily for four weeks. Each capsule contained not less than 7.50 mg of total withanolides. The study evaluated various indicators in a cohort of healthy participants throughout the trial, including vital signs, organ function tests, urine analysis, X-ray and ECG, cardiorespiratory endurance, body fat percentage, lean body weight, adverse events profile, and tolerability of the WSE capsules. RESULTS The participant's physical, hematological, and biochemical characteristics were normal, and no significant alterations or irregularities were observed in safety metrics like liver, kidney, and thyroid functions after administering AgeVel®/Witholytin®. CONCLUSION This study found that healthy male participants could consume a standardized WSE at a daily dosage of 1000 mg for four weeks without any adverse effects. Future research should focus on long-term safety assessments in male and female participants.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Vidyadhar G Vaidya
- Lokmanya Medical Research Centre and Hospital, Pune, 411033, Maharashtra, India
| | - Amol Gothwad
- Lokmanya Medical Research Centre and Hospital, Pune, 411033, Maharashtra, India
| | - Gayatri Ganu
- Mprex Healthcare Pvt. Ltd., Pune, 411057, Maharashtra, India
| | - Aboli Girme
- Pharmanza Herbal Pvt. Ltd., Anand, 388430, Gujarat, India
| | | | - Lal Hingorani
- Pharmanza Herbal Pvt. Ltd., Anand, 388430, Gujarat, India.
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Della Porta M, Maier JA, Cazzola R. Effects of Withania somnifera on Cortisol Levels in Stressed Human Subjects: A Systematic Review. Nutrients 2023; 15:5015. [PMID: 38140274 PMCID: PMC10745833 DOI: 10.3390/nu15245015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2023] [Revised: 11/30/2023] [Accepted: 12/02/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Withania somnifera (WS), a popular medicinal plant of the Solanaceae family, contains active ingredients with antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory, and anti-stress activities. However, its precise mechanisms of action and optimal use as a supplement are not yet fully understood. The objective of this systematic review is to assess the impact of WS supplementation on cortisol levels in stressed humans by analyzing clinical trials conducted prior to May 2023. METHODS The assessment was carried out following the guidelines of Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) by exploring the databases of EMBASE, PubMed, Google Scholar, CENTRAL, and Scopus. RESULTS Of the 4788 articles identified, only 9 studies met the selection criteria. The selected studies varied in terms of design, results, formulations, dosages, and treatment duration (30-112 days), and involved subjects with varying degrees of stress. WS supplementation decreases cortisol secretion with no significant adverse effects. Nonetheless, none of the studies evaluated the potential impact of cortisol reduction on adrenal function and long-term effects. CONCLUSIONS Brief-term supplementation with WS appears to have a stress-reducing effect in stressed individuals. However, since the long-term effects of WS supplementation are not yet fully understood, WS supplements should be used under medical supervision.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Matteo Della Porta
- Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, University of Milano, 20157 Milan, Italy; (J.A.M.); (R.C.)
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
6
|
Kumar Gupta S, Gohil D, Dutta D, Panigrahi GC, Gupta P, Dalvi K, Khanka T, Yadav S, Kumar Kaushal R, Chichra A, Punatar S, Gokarn A, Mirgh S, Jindal N, Nayak L, Tembhare PR, Khizer Hasan S, Kumar Sandur S, Hingorani L, Khattry N, Gota V. Withaferin-A alleviates acute graft versus host disease without compromising graft versus leukemia effect. Int Immunopharmacol 2023; 121:110437. [PMID: 37311352 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2023.110437] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2023] [Revised: 05/20/2023] [Accepted: 05/30/2023] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Acute graft versus host disease (aGvHD) contributes to a significant proportion of non-relapse mortality and morbidity in patients undergoing allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (alloHSCT). Withaferin-A (WA), a phytomolecule obtained from Withania somnifera (Ashwagandha), is known to have anti-inflammatory, anti-proliferative and immunomodulatory properties. The efficacy of WA for the prevention and treatment of aGvHD was evaluated using a murine model of alloHSCT. Prophylactic administration of WA to mice mitigated the clinical symptoms of aGvHD and improved survival significantly compared to the GvHD control [HR = 0.07 (0.01-0.35); P < 0.001]. Furthermore, WA group had better overall survival compared to standard prophylactic regimen of CSA + MTX [HR = 0.19 (0.03-1.1), P < 0.05]. At the same time, WA did not compromise the beneficial GvL effect. In addition, WA administered to animals after the onset of aGvHD could reverse the clinical severity and improved survival, thus establishing its therapeutic potential. Our findings suggest that WA reduced the systemic levels of Th1, Th2 and Th17 inflammatory cytokine and increased the anti-inflammatory cytokine IL-10 levels significantly (P < 0.05). WA also inhibited lymphocytes migration to gut, liver, skin and lung and protected these organs from damage. Ex-vivo, WA inhibited proliferation of human peripheral blood mononuclear cells (hPBMCs), modulated immune cell phenotype and decreased cytokine release. In addition, WA inhibited pJAK2 and pSTAT3 protein levels in mouse splenocytes and hPBMCs. In conclusion, our study demonstrates the utility of WA for the prevention and treatment of aGvHD, which should be further evaluated in a clinical setting.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Saurabh Kumar Gupta
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, ACTREC, Tata Memorial Centre, Kharghar, Navi Mumbai 410210, Maharashtra, India; Homi Bhabha National Institute, BARC Training School Complex, Anushakti Nagar, Mumbai 400094, Maharashtra, India
| | - Dievya Gohil
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, ACTREC, Tata Memorial Centre, Kharghar, Navi Mumbai 410210, Maharashtra, India; Homi Bhabha National Institute, BARC Training School Complex, Anushakti Nagar, Mumbai 400094, Maharashtra, India
| | - Deepshikha Dutta
- Cell and Tumor Biology Group, ACTREC, Tata Memorial Centre, Kharghar, Navi Mumbai 410210, Maharashtra, India; Homi Bhabha National Institute, BARC Training School Complex, Anushakti Nagar, Mumbai 400094, Maharashtra, India
| | - Girish Ch Panigrahi
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, ACTREC, Tata Memorial Centre, Kharghar, Navi Mumbai 410210, Maharashtra, India; Homi Bhabha National Institute, BARC Training School Complex, Anushakti Nagar, Mumbai 400094, Maharashtra, India
| | - Puja Gupta
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, ACTREC, Tata Memorial Centre, Kharghar, Navi Mumbai 410210, Maharashtra, India
| | - Kajal Dalvi
- Hematopathology Laboratory, ACTREC, Tata Memorial Centre, Kharghar, Navi Mumbai 410210, Maharashtra, India
| | - Twinkle Khanka
- Hematopathology Laboratory, ACTREC, Tata Memorial Centre, Kharghar, Navi Mumbai 410210, Maharashtra, India
| | - Subhash Yadav
- Department of Pathology, Tata Memorial Hospital, Parel, Mumbai 400012, Maharashtra, India; Homi Bhabha National Institute, BARC Training School Complex, Anushakti Nagar, Mumbai 400094, Maharashtra, India
| | - Rajiv Kumar Kaushal
- Department of Pathology, Tata Memorial Hospital, Parel, Mumbai 400012, Maharashtra, India; Homi Bhabha National Institute, BARC Training School Complex, Anushakti Nagar, Mumbai 400094, Maharashtra, India
| | - Akanksha Chichra
- Department of Medical Oncology, ACTREC, Tata Memorial Centre, Kharghar, Navi Mumbai 410210, Maharashtra, India; Homi Bhabha National Institute, BARC Training School Complex, Anushakti Nagar, Mumbai 400094, Maharashtra, India
| | - Sachin Punatar
- Department of Medical Oncology, ACTREC, Tata Memorial Centre, Kharghar, Navi Mumbai 410210, Maharashtra, India; Homi Bhabha National Institute, BARC Training School Complex, Anushakti Nagar, Mumbai 400094, Maharashtra, India
| | - Anant Gokarn
- Department of Medical Oncology, ACTREC, Tata Memorial Centre, Kharghar, Navi Mumbai 410210, Maharashtra, India; Homi Bhabha National Institute, BARC Training School Complex, Anushakti Nagar, Mumbai 400094, Maharashtra, India
| | - Sumeet Mirgh
- Department of Medical Oncology, ACTREC, Tata Memorial Centre, Kharghar, Navi Mumbai 410210, Maharashtra, India; Homi Bhabha National Institute, BARC Training School Complex, Anushakti Nagar, Mumbai 400094, Maharashtra, India
| | - Nishant Jindal
- Department of Medical Oncology, ACTREC, Tata Memorial Centre, Kharghar, Navi Mumbai 410210, Maharashtra, India; Homi Bhabha National Institute, BARC Training School Complex, Anushakti Nagar, Mumbai 400094, Maharashtra, India
| | - Lingaraj Nayak
- Department of Medical Oncology, ACTREC, Tata Memorial Centre, Kharghar, Navi Mumbai 410210, Maharashtra, India; Homi Bhabha National Institute, BARC Training School Complex, Anushakti Nagar, Mumbai 400094, Maharashtra, India
| | - Prashant R Tembhare
- Hematopathology Laboratory, ACTREC, Tata Memorial Centre, Kharghar, Navi Mumbai 410210, Maharashtra, India; Homi Bhabha National Institute, BARC Training School Complex, Anushakti Nagar, Mumbai 400094, Maharashtra, India
| | - Syed Khizer Hasan
- Cell and Tumor Biology Group, ACTREC, Tata Memorial Centre, Kharghar, Navi Mumbai 410210, Maharashtra, India; Homi Bhabha National Institute, BARC Training School Complex, Anushakti Nagar, Mumbai 400094, Maharashtra, India
| | - Santosh Kumar Sandur
- Radiation Biology and Health Science Division, Bio-science Group, Bhabha Atomic Research Centre, Mumbai 400094, India; Homi Bhabha National Institute, BARC Training School Complex, Anushakti Nagar, Mumbai 400094, Maharashtra, India
| | - Lal Hingorani
- Pharmanza Herbal Pvt. Ltd., Anand 388435, Gujarat, India
| | - Navin Khattry
- Department of Medical Oncology, ACTREC, Tata Memorial Centre, Kharghar, Navi Mumbai 410210, Maharashtra, India; Homi Bhabha National Institute, BARC Training School Complex, Anushakti Nagar, Mumbai 400094, Maharashtra, India
| | - Vikram Gota
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, ACTREC, Tata Memorial Centre, Kharghar, Navi Mumbai 410210, Maharashtra, India; Homi Bhabha National Institute, BARC Training School Complex, Anushakti Nagar, Mumbai 400094, Maharashtra, India.
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Bashir A, Nabi M, Tabassum N, Afzal S, Ayoub M. An updated review on phytochemistry and molecular targets of Withania somnifera (L.) Dunal (Ashwagandha). Front Pharmacol 2023; 14:1049334. [PMID: 37063285 PMCID: PMC10090468 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2023.1049334] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2022] [Accepted: 02/28/2023] [Indexed: 03/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Withania somnifera (L.) Dunal belongs to the nightshade family Solanaceae and is commonly known as Ashwagandha. It is pharmacologically a significant medicinal plant of the Indian sub-continent, used in Ayurvedic and indigenous systems of medicine for more than 3,000 years. It is a rich reservoir of pharmaceutically bioactive constituents known as withanolides (a group of 300 naturally occurring C-28 steroidal lactones with an ergostane-based skeleton). Most of the biological activities of W. somnifera have been attributed to two key withanolides, namely, withaferin-A and withanolide-D. In addition, bioactive constituents such as withanosides, sitoindosides, steroidal lactones, and alkaloids are also present with a broad spectrum of therapeutic potential. Several research groups worldwide have discovered various molecular targets of W. somnifera, such as inhibiting the activation of nuclear factor kappa-B and promoting apoptosis of cancer cells. It also enhances dopaminergic D2 receptor activity (relief in Parkinson’s disease). The active principles such as sitoindosides VII-X and withaferin-A possess free radical properties. Withanolide-D increases the radio sensitivity of human cancer cells via inhibiting deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) damage to non-homologous end-joining repair (NHEJ) pathways. Withanolide-V may serve as a potential inhibitor against the main protease (Mpro) of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) to combat COVID. The molecular docking studies revealed that the withanolide-A inhibits acetyl-cholinesterase in the brain, which could be a potential drug to treat Alzheimer’s disease. Besides, withanolide-A reduces the expression of the N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptor, which is responsible for memory loss in epileptic rats. This review demonstrates that W. somnifera is a rich source of withanolides and other bioactive constituents, which can be used as a safe drug for various chronic diseases due to the minimal side effects in various pre-clinical studies. These results are interesting and signify that more clinical trials should be conducted to prove the efficacy and other potential therapeutic effects in human settings.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Arsalan Bashir
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Kashmir, Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir, India
| | - Masarat Nabi
- Department of Environmental Science, University of Kashmir, Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir, India
| | - Nahida Tabassum
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Kashmir, Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir, India
- *Correspondence: Nahida Tabassum,
| | - Suhaib Afzal
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Kashmir, Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir, India
| | - Mehrose Ayoub
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Kashmir, Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir, India
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Mikulska P, Malinowska M, Ignacyk M, Szustowski P, Nowak J, Pesta K, Szeląg M, Szklanny D, Judasz E, Kaczmarek G, Ejiohuo OP, Paczkowska-Walendowska M, Gościniak A, Cielecka-Piontek J. Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera)—Current Research on the Health-Promoting Activities: A Narrative Review. Pharmaceutics 2023; 15:pharmaceutics15041057. [PMID: 37111543 PMCID: PMC10147008 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics15041057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2023] [Revised: 03/12/2023] [Accepted: 03/20/2023] [Indexed: 03/28/2023] Open
Abstract
In recent years, there has been a significant surge in reports on the health-promoting benefits of winter cherry (Withania somnifera), also known as Ashwagandha. Its current research covers many aspects of human health, including neuroprotective, sedative and adaptogenic effects and effects on sleep. There are also reports of anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, cardioprotective and anti-diabetic properties. Furthermore, there are reports of reproductive outcomes and tarcicidal hormone action. This growing body of research on Ashwagandha highlights its potential as a valuable natural remedy for many health concerns. This narrative review delves into the most recent findings and provides a comprehensive overview of the current understanding of ashwagandha’s potential uses and any known safety concerns and contraindications.
Collapse
|
9
|
Alhasaniah AH. l-carnitine: Nutrition, pathology, and health benefits. Saudi J Biol Sci 2023; 30:103555. [PMID: 36632072 PMCID: PMC9827390 DOI: 10.1016/j.sjbs.2022.103555] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2022] [Revised: 12/09/2022] [Accepted: 12/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Carnitine is a medically needful nutrient that contributes in the production of energy and the metabolism of fatty acids. Bioavailability is higher in vegetarians than in people who eat meat. Deficits in carnitine transporters occur as a result of genetic mutations or in combination with other illnesses such like hepatic or renal disease. Carnitine deficit can arise in diseases such endocrine maladies, cardiomyopathy, diabetes, malnutrition, aging, sepsis, and cirrhosis due to abnormalities in carnitine regulation. The exogenously provided molecule is obviously useful in people with primary carnitine deficits, which can be life-threatening, and also some secondary deficiencies, including such organic acidurias: by eradicating hypotonia, muscle weakness, motor skills, and wasting are all improved l-carnitine (LC) have reported to improve myocardial functionality and metabolism in ischemic heart disease patients, as well as athletic performance in individuals with angina pectoris. Furthermore, although some intriguing data indicates that LC could be useful in a variety of conditions, including carnitine deficiency caused by long-term total parenteral supplementation or chronic hemodialysis, hyperlipidemias, and the prevention of anthracyclines and valproate-induced toxicity, such findings must be viewed with caution.
Collapse
Key Words
- AD, Alzheimer's disease
- AIF, Apoptosis-inducing factor
- Anti-wasting effect
- BBB, Blood–brain barrier
- CC, Cancer cachexia
- CHF, Chronic heart failure
- COPD, Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
- ESRD, End-stage renal disease
- GOT, Glutamic oxaloacetic transaminase
- HCC, Hepatocellular carcinoma
- HFD, High-Fat Diet
- HOI, Highest observed intake
- Health benefits
- LC, l-carnitine
- MI, myocardial infarction
- MTX, Methotrexate
- NF-kB, Nuclear factor-kB
- Nutrition
- OSL, Observed safe level
- PCD, Primary carnitine deficiency
- Pathology
- ROS, Reactive oxygen species
- SCD, Secondary carnitine deficiency
- TLE, Temporal lobe epilepsy
- VD, Vascular dementia
- l-carnitine
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Abdulaziz Hassan Alhasaniah
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Sciences, Faculty of Applied Medical Sciences, Najran University, P.O. Box 1988, Najran 61441, Saudi Arabia
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Bhat JA, Akther T, Najar RA, Rasool F, Hamid A. Withania somnifera (L.) Dunal (Ashwagandha); current understanding and future prospect as a potential drug candidate. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:1029123. [PMID: 36578541 PMCID: PMC9790970 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.1029123] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2022] [Accepted: 11/30/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Cancer and Neurodegenerative diseases are one of the most dreadful diseases to cure and chemotherapy has found a prime place in cancerous treatments while as different strategies have been tested in neurodegenerative diseases as well. However, due to adverse shortcomings like the resistance of cancerous cells and inefficiency in neurodegenerative disease, plant sources have always found a prime importance in medicinal use for decades, Withania somnifera (L.) Dunal (W. somnifera) is a well-known plant with medicinal use reported for centuries. It is commonly known as winter cherry or ashwagandha and is a prime source of pharmaceutically active compounds withanolides. In recent years research is being carried in understanding the extensive role of W. somnifera in cancer and neurological disorders. W. somnifera has been reported to be beneficial in DNA repair mechanisms; it is known for its cellular repairing properties and helps to prevent the apoptosis of normal cells. This review summarizes the potential properties and medicinal benefits of W. somnifera especially in cancer and neurodegenerative diseases. Available data suggest that W. somnifera is effective in controlling disease progressions and could be a potential therapeutic target benefiting human health status. The current review also discusses the traditional medicinal applications of W. somnifera, the experimental evidence supporting its therapeutical potential as well as obstacles that necessitate being overcome for W. somnifera to be evaluated as a curative agent in humans.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Javeed Ahmad Bhat
- Cancer Pharmacology Division, CSIR-Indian Institute of Integrative Medicine, Jammu, India,Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, University of Rochester, Rochester, NY, United States,*Correspondence: Javeed Ahmad Bhat, ; Abid Hamid,
| | - Tahira Akther
- B. S. Abdur Rahman Crescent Institute of Science and Technology, Chennai, India
| | - Rauf Ahmad Najar
- Cancer Pharmacology Division, CSIR-Indian Institute of Integrative Medicine, Jammu, India,Department of Pediatrics (Neonatology), Lung Biology and Disease Program, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY, United States
| | - Faheem Rasool
- Government College for Women, Jammu, Jammu and Kashmir, India
| | - Abid Hamid
- Cancer Pharmacology Division, CSIR-Indian Institute of Integrative Medicine, Jammu, India,Department of Biotechnology, School of Life Sciences, Central University of Kashmir, Srinagar, India,*Correspondence: Javeed Ahmad Bhat, ; Abid Hamid,
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Xu Z, Chu M. Advances in Immunosuppressive Agents Based on Signal Pathway. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:917162. [PMID: 35694243 PMCID: PMC9178660 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.917162] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2022] [Accepted: 05/02/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Immune abnormality involves in various diseases, such as infection, allergic diseases, autoimmune diseases, as well as transplantation. Several signal pathways have been demonstrated to play a central role in the immune response, including JAK/STAT, NF-κB, PI3K/AKT-mTOR, MAPK, and Keap1/Nrf2/ARE pathway, in which multiple targets have been used to develop immunosuppressive agents. In recent years, varieties of immunosuppressive agents have been approved for clinical use, such as the JAK inhibitor tofacitinib and the mTOR inhibitor everolimus, which have shown good therapeutic effects. Additionally, many immunosuppressive agents are still in clinical trials or preclinical studies. In this review, we classified the immunosuppressive agents according to the immunopharmacological mechanisms, and summarized the phase of immunosuppressive agents.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zhiqing Xu
- Department of Immunology, National Health Commission (NHC) Key Laboratory of Medical Immunology (Peking University), School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, China
- Department of Pharmacology, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Ming Chu
- Department of Immunology, National Health Commission (NHC) Key Laboratory of Medical Immunology (Peking University), School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, China
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Chowdhury NN, Islam MN, Jafrin R, Rauf A, Khalil AA, Emran TB, Aljohani ASM, Alhumaydhi FA, Lorenzo JM, Shariati MA, Simal-Gandara J. Natural plant products as effective alternatives to synthetic chemicals for postharvest fruit storage management. Crit Rev Food Sci Nutr 2022; 63:10332-10350. [PMID: 35612470 DOI: 10.1080/10408398.2022.2079112] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
Fruits contain enormous source of vitamins that provides energy to the human body. These are also affluent in essential and vital vitamins, minerals, fiber, and health-promoting components, which has led to an increase in fruit consumption in recent years. Though fruit consumption has expanded considerably in recent years, the use of synthetic chemicals to ripen or store fruits has been steadily increasing, resulting in postharvest deterioration. Alternatives to synthetic chemicals should be considered to control this problem. Instead of utilizing synthetic chemicals, this study suggests using natural plant products to control postharvest decay. The aim of this study indicates how natural plant products can be useful and effective to eliminate postharvest diseases rather than using synthetic chemicals. Several electronic databases were investigated as information sources, including Google Scholar, PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, ScienceDirect, SpringerLink, Semantic Scholar, MEDLINE, and CNKI Scholar. The current review focused on the postharvest of fruits has become more and more necessary because of these vast demands of fruits. Pathogen-induced diseases are the main component and so the vast portion of fruits get wasted after harvest. Besides, it may occur harmful during harvesting and subsequent handling, storage, and marketing and after consumer purchasing and also causes for numerous endogenous and exogenous diseases via activating ROS, oxidative stress, lipid peroxidation, etc. However, pathogenicity can be halted by using postharvest originating natural fruits containing bioactive elements that may be responsible for the management of nutritional deficiency, inflammation, cancer, and so on. However, issues arising during the postharvest diseases must be controlled and resolved before releasing the horticultural commodities for commercialization. Therefore, the control of postharvest pathogens still depends on the use of synthetic fungicides; however, due to the problem of the development of the fungicide-resistant strains there is a good demand of public to eradicate the use of pesticides with the arrival of numerous diseases that are expanded in their intensity by the specific chemical product. By using of the organic or natural products for controlling postharvest diseases of fruits has become a mandatory step to take. In addition, antimicrobial packaging may have a greater impact on long-term food security by lowering the risk of pathogenicity and increasing the longevity of fruit shelf life. Taken together, natural chemicals as acetaldehyde, hexanal, eugenol, linalool, jasmonates, glucosinolates, essential oils, and many plant bioactive are reported for combating of the postharvest illnesses and guide to way of storage of fruits in this review.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nahidun Nesa Chowdhury
- Department of Pharmacy, International Islamic University Chittagong, Chittagong, Bangladesh
| | - Mohammad Nazmul Islam
- Department of Pharmacy, International Islamic University Chittagong, Chittagong, Bangladesh
| | - Rifat Jafrin
- Department of Pharmacy, International Islamic University Chittagong, Chittagong, Bangladesh
| | - Abdur Rauf
- Department of Chemistry, University of Swabi, Anbar, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan
| | - Anees Ahmed Khalil
- University Institute of Diet and Nutritional Sciences, Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, The University of Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Talha Bin Emran
- Department of Pharmacy, BGC Trust University Bangladesh, Chittagong, Bangladesh
| | - Abdullah S M Aljohani
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, College of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Qassim University, Buraydah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Fahad A Alhumaydhi
- Department of Medical Laboratories, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Qassim University, Buraydah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Jose M Lorenzo
- Centro Tecnológico de la Carne de Galicia, Ourense, Spain
- Área de Tecnología de los Alimentos, Facultad de Ciencias de Ourense, Universidad de Vigo, Ourense, Spain
| | - Mohammad Ali Shariati
- K.G. Razumovsky Moscow State University of Technologies and Management, The First Cossack University), Moscow, Russia
| | - Jesus Simal-Gandara
- Universidade de Vigo, Nutrition and Bromatology Group, Analytical Chemistry and Food Science Department, Faculty of Science, Ourense, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Safety, toxicity and pharmacokinetic assessment of oral Withaferin-A in mice. Toxicol Rep 2022; 9:1204-1212. [DOI: 10.1016/j.toxrep.2022.05.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2022] [Revised: 05/02/2022] [Accepted: 05/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
|
14
|
Pushparaj PN, Kalamegam G, Wali Sait KH, Rasool M. Decoding the Role of Astrocytes in the Entorhinal Cortex in Alzheimer’s Disease Using High-Dimensional Single-Nucleus RNA Sequencing Data and Next-Generation Knowledge Discovery Methodologies: Focus on Drugs and Natural Product Remedies for Dementia. Front Pharmacol 2022; 12:720170. [PMID: 35295737 PMCID: PMC8918735 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2021.720170] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2021] [Accepted: 12/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a major cause of the development of cognitive decline and dementia. AD and associated dementias (ADRD) are the major contributors to the enormous burden of morbidity and mortality worldwide. To date, there are no robust therapies to alleviate or cure this debilitating disease. Most drug treatments focus on restoring the normal function of neurons and the cells that cause inflammation, such as microglia in the brain. However, the role of astrocytes, the brain’s housekeeping cells, in the development of AD and the initiation of dementia is still not well understood. Objective: To decipher the role of astrocytes in the entorhinal cortex of AD patients using single nuclear RNA sequencing (snRNASeq) datasets from the Single Cell RNA-seq Database for Alzheimer’s Disease (scREAD). The datasets were originally derived from astrocytes, isolated from the entorhinal cortex of AD brain and healthy brain to decipher disease-specific signaling pathways as well as drugs and natural products that reverse AD-specific signatures in astrocytes. Methods: We used snRNASeq datasets from the scREAD database originally derived from astrocytes isolated from the entorhinal cortex of AD and healthy brains from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) (GSE138852 and GSE147528) and analyzed them using next-generation knowledge discovery (NGKD) platforms. scREAD is a user-friendly open-source interface available at https://bmbls.bmi.osumc.edu/scread/that enables more discovery-oriented strategies. snRNASeq data and metadata can also be visualized and downloaded via an interactive web application at adsn.ddnetbio.com. Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) for each snRNASeq dataset were analyzed using iPathwayGuide to compare and derive disease-specific pathways, gene ontologies, and in silico predictions of drugs and natural products that regulate AD -specific signatures in astrocytes. In addition, DEGs were analyzed using the L1000FWD and L1000CDS2 signature search programming interfaces (APIs) to identify additional drugs and natural products that mimic or reverse AD-specific gene signatures in astrocytes. Results: We found that PI3K/AKT signaling, Wnt signaling, neuroactive ligand-receptor interaction pathways, neurodegeneration pathways, etc. were significantly impaired in astrocytes from the entorhinal cortex of AD patients. Biological processes such as glutamate receptor signaling pathway, regulation of synapse organization, cell-cell adhesion via plasma membrane adhesion molecules, and chylomicrons were negatively enriched in the astrocytes from the entorhinal cortex of AD patients. Gene sets involved in cellular components such as postsynaptic membrane, synaptic membrane, postsynapse, and synapse part were negatively enriched (p < 0.01). Moreover, molecular functions such as glutamate receptor activity, neurotransmitter receptor activity, and extracellular ligand-gated ion channels were negatively regulated in the astrocytes of the entorhinal cortex of AD patients (p < 0.01). Moreover, the application of NGKD platforms revealed that antirheumatic drugs, vitamin-E, emetine, narciclasine, cephaeline, trichostatin A, withaferin A, dasatinib, etc. can potentially reverse gene signatures associated with AD. Conclusions: The present study highlights an innovative approach to use NGKD platforms to find unique disease-associated signaling pathways and specific synthetic drugs and natural products that can potentially reverse AD and ADRD-associated gene signatures.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Peter Natesan Pushparaj
- Center of Excellence in Genomic Medicine Research, Department of Medical Laboratory Technology, Faculty of Applied Medical Sciences, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
- Center for Transdisciplinary Research, Department of Pharmacology, Saveetha Dental College and Hospitals, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences, Chennai, India
- *Correspondence: Peter Natesan Pushparaj, ; Mahmood Rasool,
| | - Gauthaman Kalamegam
- Center for Transdisciplinary Research, Department of Pharmacology, Saveetha Dental College and Hospitals, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences, Chennai, India
| | - Khalid Hussain Wali Sait
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, King Abdulaziz University Hospital, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mahmood Rasool
- Center of Excellence in Genomic Medicine Research, Department of Medical Laboratory Technology, Faculty of Applied Medical Sciences, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
- *Correspondence: Peter Natesan Pushparaj, ; Mahmood Rasool,
| |
Collapse
|