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Monchaux de Oliveira C, Morael J, Guille A, Amadieu C, Vancassel S, Gaudout D, Capuron L, Pourtau L, Castanon N. Saffron extract interferes with lipopolysaccharide-induced brain activation of the kynurenine pathway and impairment of monoamine neurotransmission in mice. Front Nutr 2023; 10:1267839. [PMID: 37867499 PMCID: PMC10585275 DOI: 10.3389/fnut.2023.1267839] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2023] [Accepted: 09/05/2023] [Indexed: 10/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Although activation of inflammatory processes is essential to fight infections, its prolonged impact on brain function is well known to contribute to the pathophysiology of many medical conditions, including neuropsychiatric disorders. Therefore, identifying novel strategies to selectively counter the harmful effects of neuroinflammation appears as a major health concern. In that context, this study aimed to test the relevance of a nutritional intervention with saffron, a spice known for centuries for its beneficial effect on health. Methods For this purpose, the impact of an acute oral administration of a standardized saffron extract, which was previously shown to display neuromodulatory properties and reduce depressive-like behavior, was measured in mice challenged with lipopolysaccharide (LPS, 830 μg/kg, ip). Results Pretreatment with saffron extract (6.5 mg/kg, per os) did not reduce LPS-induced sickness behavior, preserving therefore this adaptive behavioral response essential for host defense. However, it interfered with delayed changes of expression of cytokines, chemokines and markers of microglial activation measured 24 h post-LPS treatment in key brain areas for behavior and mood control (frontal cortex, hippocampus, striatum). Importantly, this pretreatment also counteracted by that time the impact of LPS on several neurobiological processes contributing to inflammation-induced emotional alterations, in particular the activation of the kynurenine pathway, assessed through the expression of its main enzymes, as well as concomitant impairment of serotonergic and dopaminergic neurotransmission. Conclusion Altogether, this study provides important clues on how saffron extract interferes with brain function in conditions of immune stimulation and supports the relevance of saffron-based nutritional interventions to improve the management of inflammation-related comorbidities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Camille Monchaux de Oliveira
- INRAE, NutriNeuro, UMR 1286, Bordeaux University, Bordeaux IPB, Bordeaux, France
- Activ’Inside, Beychac-et-Caillau, France
| | - Jennifer Morael
- INRAE, NutriNeuro, UMR 1286, Bordeaux University, Bordeaux IPB, Bordeaux, France
| | - Alexandrine Guille
- INRAE, NutriNeuro, UMR 1286, Bordeaux University, Bordeaux IPB, Bordeaux, France
| | - Camille Amadieu
- INRAE, NutriNeuro, UMR 1286, Bordeaux University, Bordeaux IPB, Bordeaux, France
| | - Sylvie Vancassel
- INRAE, NutriNeuro, UMR 1286, Bordeaux University, Bordeaux IPB, Bordeaux, France
| | | | - Lucile Capuron
- INRAE, NutriNeuro, UMR 1286, Bordeaux University, Bordeaux IPB, Bordeaux, France
| | | | - Nathalie Castanon
- INRAE, NutriNeuro, UMR 1286, Bordeaux University, Bordeaux IPB, Bordeaux, France
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Shahmoradi N, Davarinejad O, Brühl AB, Brand S. Effects of Aphrodite (an Herbal Compound) on SSRI-Induced Sexual Dysfunctions and Depression in Females with Major Depressive Disorder: Findings from a Randomized Clinical Trial. MEDICINA (KAUNAS, LITHUANIA) 2023; 59:1663. [PMID: 37763782 PMCID: PMC10538161 DOI: 10.3390/medicina59091663] [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: 07/31/2023] [Revised: 09/01/2023] [Accepted: 09/08/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023]
Abstract
Background and Objectives: Almost by default, people with major depression disorder (MDD) also report sexual health issues. This holds even more true when sexual dysfunctions are SSRI-induced. Herbal compounds may have the power to counterbalance such sexual dysfunctions, though research is still scarce. Therefore, we assessed females with diagnosed MDD treated with a standard SSRI (sertraline) and reporting SSRI-induced sexual dysfunctions, and we asked whether compared to placebo, Aphrodite (a blend of ginger, saffron, cinnamon, thistle, and Tribulus terrestris) may favorably impact on sexual dysfunctions, and on symptoms of depression, anxiety, and sleep disturbances. Materials and Methods: A total of 41 females (mean age: 35.05 years) with diagnosed MDD, treated with sertraline (a standard SSRI) at therapeutic dosages, and reporting SSRI-induced sexual dysfunction, were randomly assigned either to Aphrodite or to the placebo condition. At baseline and four and eight weeks later (study end), participants completed a series of self-rating questionnaires covering symptoms of sexual dysfunction, depression, anxiety, and sleep complaints. Results: Symptoms of sexual dysfunction, depression, and anxiety decreased over time, but more so in the Aphrodite condition, compared to the placebo condition (significant p-values and large effect sizes). Over time, sleep disturbances decreased irrespective of the study condition. Conclusions: The pattern of results suggests that compared to placebo, Aphrodite appeared to improve symptoms of sexual dysfunction, depression, and anxiety among females with diagnosed MDD and SSRI-induced sexual dysfunction. Further and similar studies should investigate the underlying psychophysiological mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nasrin Shahmoradi
- Department of Psychiatry, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences (KUMS), Kermanshah 6714673159, Iran; (O.D.); (A.B.B.)
| | - Omran Davarinejad
- Department of Psychiatry, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences (KUMS), Kermanshah 6714673159, Iran; (O.D.); (A.B.B.)
| | - Annette Beatrix Brühl
- Department of Psychiatry, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences (KUMS), Kermanshah 6714673159, Iran; (O.D.); (A.B.B.)
- Center for Affective, Stress and Sleep Disorders, Psychiatric Clinics of the University of Basel, 4002 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Serge Brand
- Center for Affective, Stress and Sleep Disorders, Psychiatric Clinics of the University of Basel, 4002 Basel, Switzerland
- Substance Abuse Prevention Research Center, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences (KUMS), Kermanshah 6714673159, Iran
- School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences (TUMS), Tehran 1417466191, Iran
- Sleep Disorders Research Center, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences (KUMS), Kermanshah 6714673159, Iran
- Division of Sport Science and Psychosocial Health, Department of Sport, Exercise and Health, University of Basel, 4052 Basel, Switzerland
- Center for Disaster Psychiatry and Disaster Psychology, Psychiatric Clinics of the University of Basel, 4002 Basel, Switzerland
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Singh G, Brim H, Haileselassie Y, Varma S, Habtezion A, Rashid M, Sinha SR, Ashktorab H. Microbiomic and Metabolomic Analyses Unveil the Protective Effect of Saffron in a Mouse Colitis Model. Curr Issues Mol Biol 2023; 45:5558-5574. [PMID: 37504267 PMCID: PMC10378474 DOI: 10.3390/cimb45070351] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2023] [Revised: 06/08/2023] [Accepted: 06/08/2023] [Indexed: 07/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Despite the existence of effective drugs used to treat inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), many patients fail to respond or lose response over time. Further, many drugs can carry serious adverse effects, including increased risk of infections and malignancies. Saffron (Crocus sativus) has been reported to have anti-inflammatory properties. Its protective role in IBD and how the microbiome and metabolome play a role has not been explored extensively. We aimed to establish whether saffron treatment modulates the host microbiome and metabolic profile in experimental colitis. Colitis was induced in C57BL/6 mice with 3% DSS and treated with either saffron in a dose of 20 mg/kg body weight or vehicle through daily gavage. On day 10, stool pellets from mice were collected and analyzed to assess saffron's effect on fecal microbiota and metabolites through 16S rRNA sequencing and untargeted primary metabolite analysis. Saffron treatment maintained gut microbiota homeostasis by counter-selecting pro-inflammatory bacteria and maintained Firmicutes/Bacteroides ratio, which was otherwise disturbed by DSS treatment. Several metabolites (uric acid, cholesterol, 2 hydroxyglutaric acid, allantoic acid, 2 hydroxyhexanoic acid) were altered significantly with saffron treatment in DSS-treated mice, and this might play a role in mediating saffron's colitis-mitigating effects. These data demonstrate saffron's therapeutic potential, and its protective role is modulated by gut microbiota, potentially acting through changes in metabolites.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gulshan Singh
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, School of Medicine, Stanford University, Palo Alto, CA 94305, USA
| | - Hassan Brim
- Department of Pathology, Howard University College of Medicine, Washington, DC 20059, USA
| | - Yeneneh Haileselassie
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, School of Medicine, Stanford University, Palo Alto, CA 94305, USA
| | - Sudhir Varma
- Hithru Analytics LLC, Silver Spring, MD 20877, USA
| | - Aida Habtezion
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, School of Medicine, Stanford University, Palo Alto, CA 94305, USA
| | - Mudasir Rashid
- Department of Pathology and Cancer Center, College of Medicine, Howard University College of Medicine, Washington, DC 20059, USA
| | - Sidhartha R Sinha
- Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, School of Medicine, Stanford University, Palo Alto, CA 94305, USA
| | - Hassan Ashktorab
- Department of Pathology and Cancer Center, College of Medicine, Howard University College of Medicine, Washington, DC 20059, USA
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Dai Y, Guo J, Zhang B, Chen J, Ou H, He RR, So KF, Zhang L. Lycium barbarum (Wolfberry) glycopeptide prevents stress-induced anxiety disorders by regulating oxidative stress and ferroptosis in the medial prefrontal cortex. PHYTOMEDICINE : INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PHYTOTHERAPY AND PHYTOPHARMACOLOGY 2023; 116:154864. [PMID: 37182278 DOI: 10.1016/j.phymed.2023.154864] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2022] [Revised: 04/15/2023] [Accepted: 05/08/2023] [Indexed: 05/16/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Lycium barbarum (Wolfberry) extract has been shown to be effective in neuroprotection against aging or neural injury. Knowledge of its potential roles and biological mechanisms in relieving mental disorders, however, remains limited. PURPOSE To investigate the potency of Lycium barbarum glycopeptide (LbGp) in alleviating anxiety disorders and the related biological mechanisms. METHODS LbGp was administrated to mice subjected to 14 days of chronic restrain stress (CRS) via the intragastric route. The anxiolytic effect was evaluated by a battery of behavioral assays. The morphology of neurons and glial cells was evaluated, and cortical neuronal calcium transients were recorded in vivo. The molecular mechanism of LbGp was also investigated. RESULTS LbGp effectively relieved anxiety-like and depressive behaviors under CRS. Mechanistic studies further showed that LbGp treatment relieved oxidative stress and lipid peroxidation in the medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC). In particular, the ferroptosis pathway was inhibited by LbGp, revealing a previously unrecognized mechanism of the anxiolytic role of wolfberry extract. CONCLUSION In summary, our results supported the future development of LbGp to prevent or ameliorate stress-induced anxiety disorders. Our work provides a promising strategy for early intervention for pateitents with mental disorders by applying natural plant extracts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yelin Dai
- Key Laboratory of CNS Regeneration (Ministry of Education), Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macau Institute of CNS Regeneration, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Junxiu Guo
- Key Laboratory of CNS Regeneration (Ministry of Education), Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macau Institute of CNS Regeneration, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Borui Zhang
- Key Laboratory of CNS Regeneration (Ministry of Education), Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macau Institute of CNS Regeneration, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Junlin Chen
- Key Laboratory of CNS Regeneration (Ministry of Education), Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macau Institute of CNS Regeneration, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Haibin Ou
- College of Life Science and Technology, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Rong-Rong He
- Guangdong Engineering Research Center of Chinese Medicine & Disease Susceptibility, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Kwok-Fai So
- Key Laboratory of CNS Regeneration (Ministry of Education), Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macau Institute of CNS Regeneration, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China; State Key Laboratory of Brain and Cognitive Science, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China; Neuroscience and Neurorehabilitation Institute, University of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, Qingdao, China; Center for Exercise and Brain Science, School of Psychology, Shanghai University of Sport, Shanghai, China.
| | - Li Zhang
- Key Laboratory of CNS Regeneration (Ministry of Education), Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macau Institute of CNS Regeneration, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China; Neuroscience and Neurorehabilitation Institute, University of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, Qingdao, China; Center for Exercise and Brain Science, School of Psychology, Shanghai University of Sport, Shanghai, China.
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Matraszek-Gawron R, Chwil M, Terlecki K, Skoczylas MM. Current Knowledge of the Antidepressant Activity of Chemical Compounds from Crocus sativus L. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2022; 16:58. [PMID: 36678554 PMCID: PMC9860663 DOI: 10.3390/ph16010058] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2022] [Revised: 12/09/2022] [Accepted: 12/12/2022] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Psychotropic effect of Crocus sativus L. (family Iridaceae) biologically active chemical compounds are quite well documented and they can therefore be used in addition to the conventional pharmacological treatment of depression. This systematic review on antidepressant compounds in saffron crocus and their mechanisms of action and side effects is based on publications released between 1995−2022 and data indexed in 15 databases under the following search terms: antidepressant effect, central nervous system, Crocus sativus, cognitive impairement, crocin, crocetin, depression, dopamine, dopaminergic and serotonergic systems, picrocrocin, phytotherapy, neurotransmitters, safranal, saffron, serotonin, and biologically active compounds. The comparative analysis of the publications was based on 414 original research papers. The investigated literature indicates the effectiveness and safety of aqueous and alcoholic extracts and biologically active chemical compounds (alkaloids, anthocyanins, carotenoids, flavonoid, phenolic, saponins, and terpenoids) isolated from various organs (corms, leaves, flower petal, and stigmas) in adjuvant treatment of depression and anxiety. Monoamine reuptake inhibition, N-methyl-d-aspartate (NMDA) receptor antagonism, and gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA)-α agonism are the main proposed mechanism of the antidepressant action. The antidepressant and neuroprotective effect of extract components is associated with their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activity. The mechanism of their action, interactions with conventional drugs and other herbal preparations and the safety of use are not fully understood; therefore, further detailed research in this field is necessary. The presented results regarding the application of C. sativus in phytotherapy are promising in terms of the use of herbal preparations to support the treatment of depression. This is particularly important given the steady increase in the incidence of this disease worldwide and social effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Renata Matraszek-Gawron
- Department of Botany and Plant Physiology, University of Life Sciences in Lublin, Akademicka 15 Street, 20-950 Lublin, Poland
| | - Mirosława Chwil
- Department of Botany and Plant Physiology, University of Life Sciences in Lublin, Akademicka 15 Street, 20-950 Lublin, Poland
| | - Karol Terlecki
- Department of Vascular Surgery and Angiology, Medical University of Lublin, Racławickie 1 Street, 20-059 Lublin, Poland
| | - Michał Marian Skoczylas
- Department of Diagnostic Imaging and Interventional Radiology, Pomeranian Medical University in Szczecin, Unii Lubelskiej 1 Street, 71-252 Szczecin, Poland
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Ma A, Zou F, Zhang R, Zhao X. The effects and underlying mechanisms of medicine and food homologous flowers on the prevention and treatment of related diseases. J Food Biochem 2022; 46:e14430. [PMID: 36165435 DOI: 10.1111/jfbc.14430] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2022] [Revised: 09/05/2022] [Accepted: 09/12/2022] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
The theory of medicine and food homology has a long history in China. Numerous traditional Chinese medicinal could be used as both medicine and food. Many flower medicinal materials also belong to the homology of medicine and food, such as Chrysanthemum morifolium, Lonicera japonica, Crocus sativus, and Lonicera macranthoides. They mainly contain flavonoids, organic acids, terpenoids, and other active ingredients, which have a variety of medicinal values, including anti-inflammatory, anti-tumor, and antioxidant. There are many formulations and functional foods containing these plants in Chinese medicine, which have a variety of nutritional and health effects on the human body. In this review, 10 widely used flowers were selected to review their pharmacological activities, prevention and treatment of related diseases and underlying mechanisms, and discussed the current limitations and future development prospects, hoping to provide references for the research on the development and utilization of natural medical flowers. PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS: The "homology of medicine and food" flowers have a wide range of uses and are of great research value. In this paper, we introduce 10 "homology of medicine and food" flowers. Their active ingredients, pharmacological activities, and treatments for related diseases are reviewed, and the limitations and development prospects of the "homology of medicine and food" flowers are discussed. It is hoped that this will contribute to the development of the food and pharmacological fields.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aijinxiu Ma
- Faculty of Functional Food and Wine, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Fengmao Zou
- School of Traditional Chinese Material Medica, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Ruowen Zhang
- Jiahehongsheng (Shenzhen) Health Industry Group, Shenzhen, China
| | - Xu Zhao
- Faculty of Functional Food and Wine, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang, China
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Authentication of Iranian Saffron (Crocus sativus) Using Stable Isotopes δ13C and δ2H and Metabolites Quantification. Molecules 2022; 27:molecules27206801. [DOI: 10.3390/molecules27206801] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2022] [Revised: 10/04/2022] [Accepted: 10/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Saffron is a very high value-added ingredient used in the food supplement market and contains a high level of safranal. Adding synthetic safranal to saffron, which is significantly cheaper, and falsifying the origin of saffron may represent recurrent fraud. Saffron from different countries was analyzed to determine the stable isotope ratios δ13C and δ2H from safranal by gas chromatography coupled with isotope-ratio mass spectrometry (GC-C/P-IRMS) and the concentration of saffron metabolites with ultra-high performance liquid chromatography coupled with diode array detector (UHPLC-DAD). The isotopic analysis highlighted a higher ratio of δ2H in synthetic safranal than in natural safranal; the mean values were 36‰ (+/− 40) and −210‰ (+/− 35), respectively. The δ13C between Iranian, Spanish and other saffron was significantly different and represents median values of −28.62‰, −30.12‰ and −30.70‰, respectively. Moreover, linear and quadratic discriminant analyses (LDA and QDA) were computed using the two isotope ratios of safranal and the saffron metabolites. A first QDA showed that trans-crocetin and the δ13C of safranal, picrocrocin, and crocin C3 concentrations clearly differentiated Iranian saffron from other origins. A second model identified δ13C, trans-crocetin, crocin C2, crocin C3, and picrocrocin as good predictors to discriminate saffron samples from Iran, Spain, or other origins, with a total ability score classification matrix of 100% and a prediction matrix of 82.5%. This combined approach may be a useful tool to authenticate the origin of unknown saffron.
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Chaoul V, Awad M, Harb F, Najjar F, Hamade A, Nabout R, Soueid J. Saffron Extract Attenuates Anxiogenic Effect and Improves Cognitive Behavior in an Adult Zebrafish Model of Traumatic Brain Injury. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms231911600. [PMID: 36232902 PMCID: PMC9570094 DOI: 10.3390/ijms231911600] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2022] [Revised: 09/16/2022] [Accepted: 09/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Traumatic brain injury (TBI) has the highest mortality rates worldwide, yet effective treatment remains unavailable. TBI causes inflammatory responses, endoplasmic reticulum stress, disruption of the blood-brain barrier and neurodegeneration that lead to loss of cognition, memory and motor skills. Saffron (Crocus sativus L.) is known for its anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective effects, which makes it a potential candidate for TBI treatment. Zebrafish (Danio rerio) shares a high degree of genetic homology and cell signaling pathways with mammals. Its active neuro-regenerative function makes it an excellent model organism for TBI therapeutic drug identification. The objective of this study was to assess the effect of saffron administration to a TBI zebrafish model by investigating behavioral outcomes such as anxiety, fear and memory skills using a series of behavioral tests. Saffron exhibited anxiolytic effect on anxiety-like behaviors, and showed prevention of fear inhibition observed after TBI. It improved learning and enhanced memory performance. These results suggest that saffron could be a novel therapeutic enhancer for neural repair and regeneration of networks post-TBI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Victoria Chaoul
- Department of Life and Earth Sciences, Faculty of Sciences, Lebanese University, Jdeidet P.O. Box 90656, Lebanon
| | - Maria Awad
- Department of Life and Earth Sciences, Faculty of Sciences, Lebanese University, Jdeidet P.O. Box 90656, Lebanon
| | - Frederic Harb
- Department of Life and Earth Sciences, Faculty of Sciences, Lebanese University, Jdeidet P.O. Box 90656, Lebanon
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Medical Sciences, University of Balamand, Kalhat, Al Kurah P.O. Box 100, Lebanon
| | - Fadia Najjar
- Laboratoire d’Innovation Thérapeutique, Departments of Biology, Chemistry and Biochemistry, Faculty of Sciences II, Lebanese University, Jdeidet P.O. Box 90656, Lebanon
| | - Aline Hamade
- Laboratoire d’Innovation Thérapeutique, Departments of Biology, Chemistry and Biochemistry, Faculty of Sciences II, Lebanese University, Jdeidet P.O. Box 90656, Lebanon
| | - Rita Nabout
- Department of Life and Earth Sciences, Faculty of Sciences, Lebanese University, Jdeidet P.O. Box 90656, Lebanon
| | - Jihane Soueid
- Department of Life and Earth Sciences, Faculty of Sciences, Lebanese University, Jdeidet P.O. Box 90656, Lebanon
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, American University of Beirut, Beirut P.O. Box 11-0236, Lebanon
- Correspondence:
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Lopresti AL, Smith SJ. An examination into the mental and physical effects of a saffron extract (affron®) in recreationally-active adults: A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study. J Int Soc Sports Nutr 2022; 19:219-238. [PMID: 35813851 PMCID: PMC9261746 DOI: 10.1080/15502783.2022.2083455] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Adrian L Lopresti
- Clinical Research Australia, Perth, Australia
- Murdoch University, College of Science, Health, Engineering and Education, Perth, Australia
| | - Stephen J Smith
- Clinical Research Australia, Perth, Australia
- Murdoch University, College of Science, Health, Engineering and Education, Perth, Australia
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10
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Safety Assessment and Pain Relief Properties of Saffron from Taliouine Region (Morocco). Molecules 2022; 27:molecules27103339. [PMID: 35630819 PMCID: PMC9144369 DOI: 10.3390/molecules27103339] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2022] [Revised: 05/18/2022] [Accepted: 05/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Saffron is the most expensive spice in the world. In addition to its culinary utilization, this spice is used for medicinal purposes such as in pain management. In this study, the analgesic activity of Crocus sativus stigma extract (CSSE) was evaluated in rodents and its possible physiological mechanism was elucidated. The anti-nociceptive effect of CSSE was evaluated using three animal models (hot plate, writhing, and formalin tests). The analgesic pathways involved were assessed using various analgesia-mediating receptors antagonists. The oral administration of CSSE, up to 2000 mg/kg, caused no death or changes in the behavior or in the hematological and biochemical blood parameters of treated animals nor in the histological architecture of the animals’ livers and kidneys. CSSE showed a central, dose-dependent, anti-nociceptive effect in response to thermal stimuli; and a peripheral analgesic effect in the test of contortions induced by acetic acid. The dual (central and peripheral) analgesic effect was confirmed by the formalin test. The anti-nociceptive activity of CSSE was totally or partially reversed by the co-administration of receptor antagonists, naloxone, atropine, haloperidol, yohimbine, and glibenclamide. CSSE influenced signal processing, by the modulation of the opioidergic, adrenergic, and muscarinic systems at the peripheral and central levels; and by regulation of the dopaminergic system and control of the opening of the ATP-sensitive K+ channels at the spinal level. The obtained data point to a multimodal mechanism of action for CSSE: An anti-inflammatory effect and a modulation, through different physiological pathways, of the electrical signal generated by the nociceptors. Further clinical trials are required to endorse the potential utilization of Moroccan saffron as a natural painkiller.
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Circulating Human Serum Metabolites Derived from the Intake of a Saffron Extract (Safr'Inside TM) Protect Neurons from Oxidative Stress: Consideration for Depressive Disorders. Nutrients 2022; 14:nu14071511. [PMID: 35406124 PMCID: PMC9002571 DOI: 10.3390/nu14071511] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2022] [Revised: 04/01/2022] [Accepted: 04/03/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Increases in oxidative stress have been reported to play a central role in the vulnerability to depression, and antidepressant drugs may reduce increased oxidative stress in patients. Among the plants exerting anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant properties, saffron, a spice derived from the flower of Crocus sativus, is also known for its positive effects on depression, potentially through its SSRI-like properties. However, the molecular mechanisms underlying these effects and their health benefits for humans are currently unclear. Using an original ex vivo clinical approach, we demonstrated for the first time that the circulating human metabolites produced following saffron intake (Safr’InsideTM) protect human neurons from oxidative-stress-induced neurotoxicity by preserving cell viability and increasing BNDF production. In particular, the metabolites significantly stimulated both dopamine and serotonin release. In addition, the saffron’s metabolites were also able to protect serotonergic tone by inhibiting the expression of the serotonin transporter SERT and down-regulating serotonin metabolism. Altogether, these data provide new biochemical insights into the mechanisms underlying the beneficial impact of saffron on neuronal viability and activity in humans, in the context of oxidative stress related to depression.
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Siddiqui SA, Ali Redha A, Snoeck ER, Singh S, Simal-Gandara J, Ibrahim SA, Jafari SM. Anti-Depressant Properties of Crocin Molecules in Saffron. MOLECULES (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2022; 27:molecules27072076. [PMID: 35408474 PMCID: PMC9000812 DOI: 10.3390/molecules27072076] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2022] [Revised: 03/18/2022] [Accepted: 03/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Saffron is a valued herb, obtained from the stigmas of the C. sativus Linn (Iridaceae), with therapeutic effects. It has been described in pharmacopoeias to be variously acting, including as an anti-depressant, anti-carcinogen, and stimulant agent. The therapeutic effects of saffron are harbored in its bioactive molecules, notably crocins, the subject of this paper. Crocins have been demonstrated to act as a monoamine oxidase type A and B inhibitor. Furthermore, saffron petal extracts have experimentally been shown to impact contractile response in electrical field stimulation. Other research suggests that saffron also inhibits the reuptake of monoamines, exhibits N-methyl-d-aspartate antagonism, and improves brain-derived neurotrophic factor signaling. A host of experimental studies found saffron/crocin to be similarly effective as fluoxetine and imipramine in the treatment of depression disorders. Saffron and crocins propose a natural solution to combat depressive disorders. However, some hurdles, such as stability and delivery, need to be overcome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shahida Anusha Siddiqui
- Campus Straubing for Biotechnology and Sustainability, Technical University of Munich, Essigberg 3, 94315 Straubing, Germany;
- German Institute of Food Technologies (DIL e.V.), 49610 D-Quakenbrück, Germany
| | - Ali Ali Redha
- Department of Sport and Health Sciences, College of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Exeter, Exeter EX1 2LU, UK;
- Centre for Nutrition and Food Sciences, Queensland Alliance for Agriculture and Food Innovation (QAAFI), The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4072, Australia
| | - Edgar Remmet Snoeck
- Food Technology Study Programme, HAS University of Applied Sciences, Onderwijsboulevard 221, 5223 DE ‘s-Hertogenbosch, The Netherlands;
| | - Shubhra Singh
- Department of Tropical Agriculture and International Cooperation, National Pingtung University of Science and Technology, No. 1, Xuefu Rd, Neipu Township, Pingtung City 912, Taiwan;
| | - Jesus Simal-Gandara
- Nutrition and Bromatology Group, Department of Analytical Chemistry and Food Science, Faculty of Science, Universidade de Vigo, E-32004 Ourense, Spain;
| | - Salam A. Ibrahim
- Food and Nutritional Sciences Program, North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University, E. Market Street, 1601, Greensboro, NC 24711, USA;
| | - Seid Mahdi Jafari
- Nutrition and Bromatology Group, Department of Analytical Chemistry and Food Science, Faculty of Science, Universidade de Vigo, E-32004 Ourense, Spain;
- Faculty of Food Science and Technology, Gorgan University of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources, Gorgan 49189, Iran
- Correspondence:
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Marie A, Leroy J, Darricau M, Alfos S, De Smedt-Peyrusse V, Richard E, Vancassel S, Bosch-Bouju C. Preventive Vitamin A Supplementation Improves Striatal Function in 6-Hydroxydopamine Hemiparkinsonian Rats. Front Nutr 2022; 9:811843. [PMID: 35178422 PMCID: PMC8843942 DOI: 10.3389/fnut.2022.811843] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2021] [Accepted: 01/05/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The mechanisms leading to a loss of dopaminergic (DA) neurons from the substantia nigra pars compacta (SNc) in Parkinson's disease (PD) have multifactorial origins. In this context, nutrition is currently investigated as a modifiable environmental factor for the prevention of PD. In particular, initial studies revealed the deleterious consequences of vitamin A signaling failure on dopamine-related motor behaviors. However, the potential of vitamin A supplementation itself to prevent neurodegeneration has not been established yet. Objective The hypothesis tested in this study is that preventive vitamin A supplementation can protect DA neurons in a rat model of PD. Methods The impact of a 5-week preventive supplementation with vitamin A (20 IU/g of diet) was measured on motor and neurobiological alterations induced by 6-hydroxydopamine (6-OHDA) unilateral injections in the striatum of rats. Rotarod, step test and cylinder tests were performed up to 3 weeks after the lesion. Post-mortem analyses (retinol and monoamines dosages, western blots, immunofluorescence) were performed to investigate neurobiological processes. Results Vitamin A supplementation improved voluntary movements in the cylinder test. In 6-OHDA lesioned rats, a marked decrease of dopamine levels in striatum homogenates was measured. Tyrosine hydroxylase labeling in the SNc and in the striatum was significantly decreased by 6-OHDA injection, without effect of vitamin A. By contrast, vitamin A supplementation increased striatal expression of D2 and RXR receptors in the striatum of 6-OHDA lesioned rats. Conclusions Vitamin A supplementation partially alleviates motor alterations and improved striatal function, revealing a possible beneficial preventive approach for PD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anaïs Marie
- Institut National de Recherche pour l'Agriculture, l'Alimentation et l'Environnement (INRAE), Institut Polytechnique de Bordeaux (INP), NutriNeuro, University of Bordeaux, Bordeaux, France
| | - Julien Leroy
- Institut National de Recherche pour l'Agriculture, l'Alimentation et l'Environnement (INRAE), Institut Polytechnique de Bordeaux (INP), NutriNeuro, University of Bordeaux, Bordeaux, France
| | - Morgane Darricau
- Institut National de Recherche pour l'Agriculture, l'Alimentation et l'Environnement (INRAE), Institut Polytechnique de Bordeaux (INP), NutriNeuro, University of Bordeaux, Bordeaux, France
- Institut des Maladies Neurodégénératives, University of Bordeaux, Bordeaux, France
| | - Serge Alfos
- Institut National de Recherche pour l'Agriculture, l'Alimentation et l'Environnement (INRAE), Institut Polytechnique de Bordeaux (INP), NutriNeuro, University of Bordeaux, Bordeaux, France
| | - Veronique De Smedt-Peyrusse
- Institut National de Recherche pour l'Agriculture, l'Alimentation et l'Environnement (INRAE), Institut Polytechnique de Bordeaux (INP), NutriNeuro, University of Bordeaux, Bordeaux, France
| | - Emmanuel Richard
- Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale (INSERM), Centre Hospital-Universitaire (CHU) Bordeaux, University of Bordeaux, Bordeaux, France
| | - Sylvie Vancassel
- Institut National de Recherche pour l'Agriculture, l'Alimentation et l'Environnement (INRAE), Institut Polytechnique de Bordeaux (INP), NutriNeuro, University of Bordeaux, Bordeaux, France
| | - Clementine Bosch-Bouju
- Institut National de Recherche pour l'Agriculture, l'Alimentation et l'Environnement (INRAE), Institut Polytechnique de Bordeaux (INP), NutriNeuro, University of Bordeaux, Bordeaux, France
- *Correspondence: Clementine Bosch-Bouju
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Prevention of Stress-Induced Depressive-like Behavior by Saffron Extract Is Associated with Modulation of Kynurenine Pathway and Monoamine Neurotransmission. Pharmaceutics 2021; 13:pharmaceutics13122155. [PMID: 34959434 PMCID: PMC8709346 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics13122155] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2021] [Revised: 12/06/2021] [Accepted: 12/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Depressive disorders are a major public health concern. Despite currently available treatment options, their prevalence steadily increases, and a high rate of therapeutic failure is often reported, together with important antidepressant-related side effects. This highlights the need to improve existing therapeutic strategies, including by using nutritional interventions. In that context, saffron recently received particular attention for its beneficial effects on mood, although the underlying mechanisms are poorly understood. This study investigated in mice the impact of a saffron extract (Safr’Inside™; 6.25 mg/kg, per os) on acute restraint stress (ARS)-induced depressive-like behavior and related neurobiological alterations, by focusing on hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal axis, inflammation-related metabolic pathways, and monoaminergic systems, all known to be altered by stress and involved in depressive disorder pathophysiology. When given before stress onset, Safr’Inside administration attenuated ARS-induced depressive-like behavior in the forced swim test. Importantly, it concomitantly reversed several stress-induced monoamine dysregulations and modulated the expression of key enzymes of the kynurenine pathway, likely reducing kynurenine-related neurotoxicity. These results show that saffron pretreatment prevents the development of stress-induced depressive symptoms and improves our understanding about the underlying mechanisms, which is a central issue to validate the therapeutic relevance of nutritional interventions with saffron in depressed patients.
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Musazadeh V, Zarezadeh M, Faghfouri AH, Keramati M, Ghoreishi Z, Farnam A. Saffron, as an adjunct therapy, contributes to relieve depression symptoms: An umbrella meta-analysis. Pharmacol Res 2021; 175:105963. [PMID: 34757208 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2021.105963] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2021] [Revised: 10/22/2021] [Accepted: 10/25/2021] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Saffron is a traditional herbal medicine that has been used to treat various ailments such as depressive mood. However, the findings of several meta-analyses regarding anti-depressive properties of saffron (Crocus sativus L.) are controversial. The current umbrella meta-analysis was carried out to determine the magnitude and direction of saffron administration on depression. METHODS Relevant studies were searched in international databases including PubMed, Scopus, EMBASE, Web of Science, and Cochrane Central Library up to June 2021. Meta-analysis studies investigating the effects of saffron on depression were considered to include in the study. Random-effects model was used to perform the meta-analysis. Additional analyses including subgroup and sensitivity analyses were carried out. RESULTS Overall, 7 meta-analyses were included in the study. The results demonstrated that the consumption of saffron resulted in a significant reduction in BDI scores (ES: -3.87; 95% CI: -5.27, -2.46). However, saffron did not change the HAMD scores (ES: -2.10; 95% CI: -5.05, 0.86, p = 0.164) and mixed scores (HAM-D/BDI/DASS) (ES: 0.02; 95% CI: -0.39, 0.43,p = 0.941). CONCLUSION Present umbrella meta-analysis demonstrated that saffron intake might contribute to alleviation of depression disorder, however, it cannot be considered as a single therapeutic approach to treat depression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vali Musazadeh
- Student Research Committee, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran; Department of Community Nutrition, School of Nutrition and Food Sciences, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.
| | - Meysam Zarezadeh
- Student Research Committee, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran; Nutrition Research Center, Department of Clinical Nutrition, School of Nutrition and Food Sciences, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.
| | - Amir Hossein Faghfouri
- Student Research Committee, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran; Department of Community Nutrition, School of Nutrition and Food Sciences, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Majid Keramati
- Student Research Committee, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran; Department of Community Nutrition, School of Nutrition and Food Sciences, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Zohreh Ghoreishi
- Nutrition Research Center, Department of Clinical Nutrition, School of Nutrition and Food Sciences, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Alireza Farnam
- Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran; Research Center of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.
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