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Shinde S, Balasubramaniam AK, Mulay V, Saste G, Girme A, Hingorani L. Recent Advancements in Extraction Techniques of Ashwagandha ( Withania somnifera) with Insights on Phytochemicals, Structural Significance, Pharmacology, and Current Trends in Food Applications. ACS OMEGA 2023; 8:40982-41003. [PMID: 37970011 PMCID: PMC10633886 DOI: 10.1021/acsomega.3c03491] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2023] [Revised: 09/25/2023] [Accepted: 10/02/2023] [Indexed: 11/17/2023]
Abstract
Ashwagandha, also known as Withania somnifera (WS), is an ayurvedic botanical plant with numerous applications in dietary supplements and traditional medicines worldwide. Due to the restorative qualities of its roots, WS has potent therapeutic value in traditional Indian (Ayurvedic, Unani, Siddha) and modern medicine recognized as the "Indian ginseng". The presence of phytochemical bioactive compounds such as withanolides, withanosides, alkaloids, flavonoids, and phenolic compounds has an important role in the therapeutic and nutritional properties of WS. Thus, the choice of WS plant part and extraction solvents, with conventional and modern techniques, plays a role in establishing WS as a potential nutraceutical product. WS has recently made its way into food supplements and products, such as baked goods, juices, beverages, sweets, and dairy items. The review aims to cover the key perspectives about WS in terms of plant description, phytochemistry, structural significance, and earlier reported extraction methodologies along with the analytical and pharmacological landscape in the area. It also attempts to iterate the key limitations and further insights into extraction techniques and bioactive standardization with the regulatory framework. It presents a key to the future development of prospective applications in foods such as food supplements or functional foods.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sunil Shinde
- Pharmanza Herbal Pvt. Ltd., Anand 388430, Gujarat, India
| | | | - Vallabh Mulay
- Pharmanza Herbal Pvt. Ltd., Anand 388430, Gujarat, India
| | - Ganesh Saste
- 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
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Gómez Afonso A, Fernandez-Lazaro D, Adams DP, Monserdà-Vilaró A, Fernandez-Lazaro CI. Effects of Withania somnifera (Ashwagandha) on Hematological and Biochemical Markers, Hormonal Behavior, and Oxidant Response in Healthy Adults: A Systematic Review. Curr Nutr Rep 2023; 12:465-477. [PMID: 37428341 PMCID: PMC10444651 DOI: 10.1007/s13668-023-00481-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/30/2023] [Indexed: 07/11/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW: Withania somnifera (L.) Dunal (Ws) is a common herb plant that has been used for centuries to treat a wide range of conditions, particularly certain chronic diseases due to its antidiabetic, cardioprotective, antistress, and chondroprotective effects, among many others. No conclusive evidence, however, exists about the potential health effects of Ws in adults without chronic conditions. We aimed to evaluate the current evidence on the health benefits of Ws supplementation in healthy adults. RECENT FINDINGS: Based on the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines, we systematically reviewed studies indexed in Web of Science, Scopus, and PubMed to assess the effects of Ws on hematological and biochemical markers, hormonal behavior, and oxidant response in healthy adults. Original articles published up to March 5, 2022, with a controlled trial design or pre-post intervention design, in which supplementation of Ws was compared to a control group or data prior to intervention were included. Among 2,421 records identified in the search, 10 studies met the inclusion criteria. Overall, most of the studies reported beneficial effects of the Ws supplementation, and no serious adverse events were reported. Participants supplemented with Ws displayed reduced levels of oxidative stress and inflammation, and counterbalanced hormone levels. No evidence of the beneficial effects of Ws supplementation on hematological markers was reported. Ws supplementation appears to be safe, may regulate hormone levels, and has potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. However, further studies are needed to elucidate the relevance of its application.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adrián Gómez Afonso
- Faculty of Physical Activity Sport Sciences, European University of Madrid, 28670, Madrid, Spain
| | - Diego Fernandez-Lazaro
- Departamento de Biología Celular, Genética, Histología y Farmacología, Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Campus de Soria, Universidad de Valladolid, Soria, 42004, Spain.
- Grupo de Investigación Reconocido "Neurobiología", Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Valladolid, Valladolid, 47005, Spain.
| | - David P Adams
- University of Galway, University Road, Galway, H91 TK33, Ireland
| | - Aniol Monserdà-Vilaró
- Faculty of Physical Activity Sport Sciences, European University of Madrid, 28670, Madrid, Spain
| | - Cesar I Fernandez-Lazaro
- Department of Preventive Medicine and Public Health, School of Medicine, University of Navarra, 31008, Pamplona, Spain.
- IdiSNA, Navarra Institute for Health Research, 31008, Pamplona, Spain.
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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.
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Kiriacos CJ, Khedr MR, Tadros M, Youness RA. Prospective Medicinal Plants and Their Phytochemicals Shielding Autoimmune and Cancer Patients Against the SARS-CoV-2 Pandemic: A Special Focus on Matcha. Front Oncol 2022; 12:837408. [PMID: 35664773 PMCID: PMC9157490 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2022.837408] [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: 12/16/2021] [Accepted: 03/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Being "positive" has been one of the most frustrating words anyone could hear since the end of 2019. This word had been overused globally due to the high infectious nature of SARS-CoV-2. All citizens are at risk of being infected with SARS-CoV-2, but a red warning sign has been directed towards cancer and immune-compromised patients in particular. These groups of patients are not only more prone to catch the virus but also more predisposed to its deadly consequences, something that urged the research community to seek other effective and safe solutions that could be used as a protective measurement for cancer and autoimmune patients during the pandemic. Aim The authors aimed to turn the spotlight on specific herbal remedies that showed potential anticancer activity, immuno-modulatory roles, and promising anti-SARS-CoV-2 actions. Methodology To attain the purpose of the review, the research was conducted at the States National Library of Medicine (PubMed). To search databases, the descriptors used were as follows: "COVID-19"/"SARS-CoV-2", "Herbal Drugs", "Autoimmune diseases", "Rheumatoid Arthritis", "Asthma", "Multiple Sclerosis", "Systemic Lupus Erythematosus" "Nutraceuticals", "Matcha", "EGCG", "Quercetin", "Cancer", and key molecular pathways. Results This manuscript reviewed most of the herbal drugs that showed a triple action concerning anticancer, immunomodulation, and anti-SARS-CoV-2 activities. Special attention was directed towards "matcha" as a novel potential protective and therapeutic agent for cancer and immunocompromised patients during the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic. Conclusion This review sheds light on the pivotal role of "matcha" as a tri-acting herbal tea having a potent antitumorigenic effect, immunomodulatory role, and proven anti-SARS-CoV-2 activity, thus providing a powerful shield for high-risk patients such as cancer and autoimmune patients during the pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caroline Joseph Kiriacos
- Molecular Genetics Research Team (MGRT), Pharmaceutical Biology Department, Faculty of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, German University in Cairo, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Monika Rafik Khedr
- Molecular Genetics Research Team (MGRT), Pharmaceutical Biology Department, Faculty of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, German University in Cairo, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Miray Tadros
- Molecular Genetics Research Team (MGRT), Pharmaceutical Biology Department, Faculty of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, German University in Cairo, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Rana A. Youness
- Molecular Genetics Research Team (MGRT), Pharmaceutical Biology Department, Faculty of Pharmacy and Biotechnology, German University in Cairo, Cairo, Egypt
- Biology and Biochemistry Department, School of Life and Medical Sciences, University of Hertfordshire Hosted by Global Academic Foundation, Cairo, Egypt
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Paul S, Chakraborty S, Anand U, Dey S, Nandy S, Ghorai M, Saha SC, Patil MT, Kandimalla R, Proćków J, Dey A. Withania somnifera (L.) Dunal (Ashwagandha): A comprehensive review on ethnopharmacology, pharmacotherapeutics, biomedicinal and toxicological aspects. Biomed Pharmacother 2021; 143:112175. [PMID: 34649336 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2021.112175] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2021] [Revised: 09/03/2021] [Accepted: 09/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Withania somnifera (L.) Dunal (Solanaceae) has been used as a traditional Rasayana herb for a long time. Traditional uses of this plant indicate its ameliorative properties against a plethora of human medical conditions, viz. hypertension, stress, diabetes, asthma, cancer etc. This review presents a comprehensive summary of the geographical distribution, traditional use, phytochemistry, and pharmacological activities of W. somnifera and its active constituents. In addition, it presents a detailed account of its presence as an active constituent in many commercial preparations with curative properties and health benefits. Clinical studies and toxicological considerations of its extracts and constituents are also elucidated. Comparative analysis of relevant in-vitro, in-vivo, and clinical investigations indicated potent bioactivity of W. somnifera extracts and phytochemicals as anti-cancer, anti-inflammatory, apoptotic, immunomodulatory, antimicrobial, anti-diabetic, hepatoprotective, hypoglycaemic, hypolipidemic, cardio-protective and spermatogenic agents. W. somnifera was found to be especially active against many neurological and psychological conditions like Parkinson's disease, Alzheimer's disease, Huntington's disease, ischemic stroke, sleep deprivation, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, bipolar disorder, anxiety, depression, schizophrenia and obsessive-compulsive disorder. The probable mechanism of action that imparts the pharmacological potential has also been explored. However, in-depth studies are needed on the clinical use of W. somnifera against human diseases. Besides, detailed toxicological analysis is also to be performed for its safe and efficacious use in preclinical and clinical studies and as a health-promoting herb.
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Affiliation(s)
- Subhabrata Paul
- School of Biotechnology, Presidency University (2nd Campus), Kolkata 700156, West Bengal, India
| | - Shreya Chakraborty
- Department of Life Sciences, Presidency University, 86/1 College Street, Kolkata 700073, West Bengal, India
| | - Uttpal Anand
- Department of Life Sciences, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer-Sheva 84105, Israel
| | - Swarnali Dey
- Department of Botany, University of Calcutta, Kolkata 700019, West Bengal, India
| | - Samapika Nandy
- Department of Life Sciences, Presidency University, 86/1 College Street, Kolkata 700073, West Bengal, India
| | - Mimosa Ghorai
- Department of Life Sciences, Presidency University, 86/1 College Street, Kolkata 700073, West Bengal, India
| | - Suchismita Chatterjee Saha
- Department of Zoology, Nabadwip Vidyasagar College (Affiliated to the University of Kalyani), Nabadwip 741302, West Bengal, India
| | - Manoj Tukaram Patil
- Post Graduate Department of Botany, SNJB's KKHA Arts, SMGL Commerce and SPHJ Science College (Affiliated to Savitribai Phule Pune University), Chandwad, Nashik 423101, Maharashtra, India
| | - Ramesh Kandimalla
- CSIR-Indian Institute of Chemical Technology, Uppal Road, Tarnaka, Hyderabad 500007, Telangana, India; Department of Biochemistry, Kakatiya Medical College, Warangal-506007, Telangana, India
| | - Jarosław Proćków
- Department of Plant Biology, Institute of Environmental Biology, Wrocław University of Environmental and Life Sciences, Kożuchowska 5b, 51-631 Wrocław, Poland.
| | - Abhijit Dey
- Department of Life Sciences, Presidency University, 86/1 College Street, Kolkata 700073, West Bengal, India.
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Saggam A, Limgaokar K, Borse S, Chavan-Gautam P, Dixit S, Tillu G, Patwardhan B. Withania somnifera (L.) Dunal: Opportunity for Clinical Repurposing in COVID-19 Management. Front Pharmacol 2021; 12:623795. [PMID: 34012390 PMCID: PMC8126694 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2021.623795] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2020] [Accepted: 03/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
As the COVID-19 pandemic is progressing, the therapeutic gaps in conventional management have highlighted the need for the integration of traditional knowledge systems with modern medicine. Ayurvedic medicines, especially Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera (L.) Dunal, WS), may be beneficial in the management of COVID-19. WS is a widely prescribed Ayurvedic botanical known as an immunomodulatory, antiviral, anti-inflammatory, and adaptogenic agent. The chemical profile and pharmacological activities of WS have been extensively reported. Several clinical studies have reported its safety for use in humans. This review presents a research synthesis of in silico, in vitro, in vivo, and clinical studies on Withania somnifera (L.) Dunal (WS) and discusses its potential for prophylaxis and management of COVID-19. We have collated the data from studies on WS that focused on viral infections (HIV, HSV, H1N1 influenza, etc.) and noncommunicable diseases (hypertension, diabetes, cancer, etc.). The experimental literature indicates that WS has the potential for 1) maintaining immune homeostasis, 2) regulating inflammation, 3) suppressing pro-inflammatory cytokines, 4) organ protection (nervous system, heart, lung, liver, and kidney), and 5) anti-stress, antihypertensive, and antidiabetic activities. Using these trends, the review presents a triangulation of Ayurveda wisdom, pharmacological properties, and COVID-19 pathophysiology ranging from viral entry to end-stage acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). The review proposes WS as a potential therapeutic adjuvant for various stages of COVID-19 management. WS may also have beneficial effects on comorbidities associated with the COVID-19. However, systematic studies are needed to realize the potential of WS for improving clinical outcome of patients with COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Akash Saggam
- AYUSH Center of Excellence, Center for Complementary and Integrative Health, Interdisciplinary School of Health Sciences, Savitribai Phule Pune University, Pune, India
| | - Kirti Limgaokar
- Division of Biochemistry, Department of Chemistry, Fergusson College (Autonomous), Pune, India
| | - Swapnil Borse
- AYUSH Center of Excellence, Center for Complementary and Integrative Health, Interdisciplinary School of Health Sciences, Savitribai Phule Pune University, Pune, India
| | - Preeti Chavan-Gautam
- AYUSH Center of Excellence, Center for Complementary and Integrative Health, Interdisciplinary School of Health Sciences, Savitribai Phule Pune University, Pune, India
| | | | - Girish Tillu
- AYUSH Center of Excellence, Center for Complementary and Integrative Health, Interdisciplinary School of Health Sciences, Savitribai Phule Pune University, Pune, India
| | - Bhushan Patwardhan
- AYUSH Center of Excellence, Center for Complementary and Integrative Health, Interdisciplinary School of Health Sciences, Savitribai Phule Pune University, Pune, India
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Zahran E, El Sebaei MG, Awadin W, Elbahnaswy S, Risha E, Elseady Y. Withania somnifera dietary supplementation improves lipid profile, intestinal histomorphology in healthy Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus), and modulates cytokines response to Streptococcus infection. FISH & SHELLFISH IMMUNOLOGY 2020; 106:133-141. [PMID: 32738514 DOI: 10.1016/j.fsi.2020.07.056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2020] [Revised: 07/20/2020] [Accepted: 07/24/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Despite Withania somnifera (WS), stimulating effects have been investigated on many animal species, its role on lipid profile and intestinal histomorphology in healthy animals, and its modulating role on pro-inflammatory cytokines following infection in fish are yet scarce. In this context, lipid profile, liver, and intestinal histomorphology were measured in Nile tilapia fed with a basal diet or diets containing 2.5 and 5% of supplementary WS for 60 days. Besides, cytokines response was measured at 1, 3,7, and 14 days following Streptococcus iniae (S. iniae) infection after the feeding trial. All lipid profile parameters were nominally lowered, excluding high-density lipoprotein (HDL) that exhibited a significant increase in WS 5% group compared to other groups. Improved gut health integrity was observed, especially in WS 5% group in terms of increased goblet cell numbers, villous height, the width of lamina propria in all parts of the intestine, and a decrease in the diameter of the intestinal lumen of the distal intestine only. A significant down-regulation in the mRNA transcript level of cytokine genes (interleukin 1β/IL-1β, tumor necrosis factor α/TNFα, and interleukin 6/IL-6) was demonstrated in the kidney and spleen of WS-supplemented groups following S. iniae infection compared with the control infected (positive control/PC) group. Our findings give new insights for the potential roles of WS dietary inclusion not only on lipid profile and intestinal health integrity improvement in healthy fish under normal rearing but also as a prophylactic against the infection. Thus, WS can be incorporated as a promising nutraceutical in aquaculture.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eman Zahran
- Department of Internal Medicine, Infectious and Fish Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Mansoura University, Mansoura, 35516, Egypt.
| | - Mahmoud G El Sebaei
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, King Faisal University, Al-Ahsa, 31982, Saudi Arabia; Department of Biochemistry and Chemistry of Nutrition, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Mansoura University, Mansoura, 35516, Egypt
| | - Walaa Awadin
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Mansoura University, Mansoura, 35516, Egypt
| | - Samia Elbahnaswy
- Department of Internal Medicine, Infectious and Fish Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Mansoura University, Mansoura, 35516, Egypt
| | - Engy Risha
- Clinical Pathology Department, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Mansoura University, Mansoura, 35516, Egypt
| | - Youssef Elseady
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Mansoura University, Mansoura, 35516, Egypt
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Mandlik Ingawale DS, Namdeo AG. Pharmacological evaluation of Ashwagandha highlighting its healthcare claims, safety, and toxicity aspects. J Diet Suppl 2020; 18:183-226. [PMID: 32242751 DOI: 10.1080/19390211.2020.1741484] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Withania somnifera, commonly known as "Ashwagandha" or "Indian ginseng" is an essential therapeutic plant of Indian subcontinent regions. It is regularly used, alone or in combination with other plants for the treatment of various illnesses in Indian Systems of Medicine over the period of 3,000 years. Ashwagandha (W. somnifera) belongs to the genus Withania and family Solanaceae. It comprises a broad spectrum of phytochemicals having wide range of biological effects. W. somnifera has demonstrated various biological actions such as anti-cancer, anti-inflammatory, anti-diabetic, anti-microbial, anti-arthritic, anti-stress/adaptogenic, neuro-protective, cardio-protective, hepato-protective, immunomodulatory properties. Furthermore, W. somnifera has revealed the capability to decrease reactive oxygen species and inflammation, modulation of mitochondrial function, apoptosis regulation and improve endothelial function. Withaferin-A is an important phytoconstituents of W. somnifera belonging to the category of withanolides been used in the traditional system of medicine for the treatment of various disorders. In this review, we have summarized the active phytoconstituents, pharmacologic activities (preclinical and clinical), mechanisms of action, potential beneficial applications, marketed formulations and safety and toxicity profile of W. somnifera.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deepa S Mandlik Ingawale
- Department of Pharmacology, Bharati Vidyapeeth Deemed to be University, Poona College of Pharmacy, Erandwane, Pune, India
| | - Ajay G Namdeo
- Department of Pharmacology, Bharati Vidyapeeth Deemed to be University, Poona College of Pharmacy, Erandwane, Pune, India
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Natural Withanolides in the Treatment of Chronic Diseases. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2017; 928:329-373. [PMID: 27671823 PMCID: PMC7121644 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-319-41334-1_14] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Withanolides, and in particular extracts from Withania somnifera, have been used for over 3,000 years in traditional Ayurvedic and Unani Indian medical systems as well as within several other Asian countries. Traditionally, the extracts were ascribed a wide range of pharmacologic properties with corresponding medical uses, including adaptogenic, diuretic, anti-inflammatory, sedative/anxiolytic, cytotoxic, antitussive, and immunomodulatory. Since the discovery of the archetype withaferin A in 1965, approximately 900 of these naturally occurring, polyoxygenated steroidal lactones with 28-carbon ergostane skeletons have been discovered across 24 diverse structural types. Subsequently, extensive pharmacologic research has identified multiple mechanisms of action across key inflammatory pathways. In this chapter we identify and describe the major withanolides with anti-inflammatory properties, illustrate their role within essential and supportive inflammatory pathways (including NF-κB, JAK/STAT, AP-1, PPARγ, Hsp90 Nrf2, and HIF-1), and then discuss the clinical application of these withanolides in inflammation-mediated chronic diseases (including arthritis, autoimmune, cancer, neurodegenerative, and neurobehavioral). These naturally derived compounds exhibit remarkable biologic activity across these complex disease processes, while showing minimal adverse effects. As novel compounds and analogs continue to be discovered, characterized, and clinically evaluated, the interest in withanolides as a novel therapeutic only continues to grow.
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Differential effects of phytotherapic preparations in the hSOD1 Drosophila melanogaster model of ALS. Sci Rep 2017; 7:41059. [PMID: 28102336 PMCID: PMC5244478 DOI: 10.1038/srep41059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2016] [Accepted: 12/15/2016] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The present study was aimed at characterizing the effects of Withania somnifera (Wse) and Mucuna pruriens (Mpe) on a Drosophila melanogaster model for Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS). In particular, the effects of Wse and Mpe were assessed following feeding the flies selectively overexpressing the wild human copper, zinc-superoxide dismutase (hSOD1-gain-of-function) in Drosophila motoneurons. Although ALS-hSOD1 mutants showed no impairment in life span, with respect to GAL4 controls, the results revealed impairment of climbing behaviour, muscle electrophysiological parameters (latency and amplitude of ePSPs) as well as thoracic ganglia mitochondrial functions. Interestingly, Wse treatment significantly increased lifespan of hSDO1 while Mpe had not effect. Conversely, both Wse and Mpe significantly rescued climbing impairment, and also latency and amplitude of ePSPs as well as failure responses to high frequency DLM stimulation. Finally, mitochondrial alterations were any more present in Wse- but not in Mpe-treated hSOD1 mutants. Hence, given the role of inflammation in the development of ALS, the high translational impact of the model, the known anti-inflammatory properties of these extracts, and the viability of their clinical use, these results suggest that the application of Wse and Mpe might represent a valuable pharmacological strategy to counteract the progression of ALS and related symptoms.
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Withania somnifera (L.) Dunal root extract alleviates formalin-induced nociception in mice. Behav Pharmacol 2016; 27:57-68. [DOI: 10.1097/fbp.0000000000000195] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
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Dar NJ, Hamid A, Ahmad M. Pharmacologic overview of Withania somnifera, the Indian Ginseng. Cell Mol Life Sci 2015; 72:4445-60. [PMID: 26306935 PMCID: PMC11113996 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-015-2012-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 144] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2015] [Revised: 07/28/2015] [Accepted: 08/03/2015] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Withania somnifera, also called 'Indian ginseng', is an important medicinal plant of the Indian subcontinent. It is widely used, singly or in combination, with other herbs against many ailments in Indian Systems of Medicine since time immemorial. Withania somnifera contains a spectrum of diverse phytochemicals enabling it to have a broad range of biological implications. In preclinical studies, it has shown anti-microbial, anti-inflammatory, anti-tumor, anti-stress, neuroprotective, cardioprotective, and anti-diabetic properties. Additionally, it has demonstrated the ability to reduce reactive oxygen species, modulate mitochondrial function, regulate apoptosis, and reduce inflammation and enhance endothelial function. In view of these pharmacologic properties, W. somnifera is a potential drug candidate to treat various clinical conditions, particularly related to the nervous system. In this review, we summarize the pharmacologic characteristics and discuss the mechanisms of action and potential therapeutic applications of the plant and its active constituents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nawab John Dar
- Neuropharmacology Laboratory, Indian Institute of Integrative Medicine-CSIR, Sanat Nagar, Srinagar, 190005, India
- Cancer Pharmacology Division, Indian Institute of Integrative Medicine-CSIR, Canal Road, Jammu, 180001, India
- Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Indian Institute of Integrative Medicine-CSIR, Canal Road, Jammu, 180001, Jammu and Kashmir, India
| | - Abid Hamid
- Cancer Pharmacology Division, Indian Institute of Integrative Medicine-CSIR, Canal Road, Jammu, 180001, India
- Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Indian Institute of Integrative Medicine-CSIR, Canal Road, Jammu, 180001, Jammu and Kashmir, India
| | - Muzamil Ahmad
- Neuropharmacology Laboratory, Indian Institute of Integrative Medicine-CSIR, Sanat Nagar, Srinagar, 190005, India.
- Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Indian Institute of Integrative Medicine-CSIR, Canal Road, Jammu, 180001, Jammu and Kashmir, India.
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Hua KF, Yang SM, Kao TY, Chang JM, Chen HL, Tsai YJ, Chen A, Yang SS, Chao LK, Ka SM. Osthole mitigates progressive IgA nephropathy by inhibiting reactive oxygen species generation and NF-κB/NLRP3 pathway. PLoS One 2013; 8:e77794. [PMID: 24204969 PMCID: PMC3810132 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0077794] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2013] [Accepted: 09/04/2013] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Renal reactive oxygen species (ROS) and mononuclear leukocyte infiltration are involved in the progressive stage (exacerbation) of IgA nephropathy (IgAN), which is characterized by glomerular proliferation and renal inflammation. The identification of the mechanism responsible for this critical stage of IgAN and the development of a therapeutic strategy remain a challenge. Osthole is a pure compound isolated from Cnidiummonnieri (L.) Cusson seeds, which are used as a traditional Chinese medicine, and is anti-inflammatory, anti-apoptotic, and anti-fibrotic both in vitro and in vivo. Recently, we showed that osthole acts as an anti-inflammatory agent by reducing nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) activation in and ROS release by activated macrophages. In this study, we examined whether osthole could prevent the progression of IgAN using a progressive IgAN (Prg-IgAN) model in mice. Our results showed that osthole administration resulted in prevention of albuminuria, improved renal function, and blocking of renal progressive lesions, including glomerular proliferation, glomerular sclerosis, and periglomerular mononuclear leukocyte infiltration. These findings were associated with (1) reduced renal superoxide anion levels and increased Nrf2 nuclear translocation, (2) inhibited renal activation of NF-κB and the NLRP3 inflammasome, (3) decreased renal MCP-1 expression and mononuclear leukocyte infiltration, (4) inhibited ROS production and NLRP3 inflammasome activation in cultured, activated macrophages, and (5) inhibited ROS production and MCP-1 protein levels in cultured, activated mesangial cells. The results suggest that osthole exerts its reno-protective effects on the progression of IgAN by inhibiting ROS production and activation of NF-κB and the NLRP3 inflammasome in the kidney. Our data also confirm that ROS generation and activation of NF-κB and the NLRP3 inflammasome are crucial mechanistic events involved in the progression of the renal disorder.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kuo-Feng Hua
- Department of Biotechnology and Animal Science, National Ilan University, Ilan, Taiwan, Republic of China
| | - Shun-Min Yang
- Department of Pathology, Tri-Service General Hospital, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei, Taiwan, Republic of China
| | - Tzu-Yang Kao
- Department of Biotechnology and Animal Science, National Ilan University, Ilan, Taiwan, Republic of China
| | - Jia-Ming Chang
- Department of Pharmacology, Institute for Drug Evaluation Platform, Development Center for Biotechnology, Taipei, Taiwan, Republic of China
| | - Hui-Ling Chen
- IND Core Team, Institute for Drug Evaluation Platform, Development Center for Biotechnology, Taipei, Taiwan, Republic of China
| | - Yung-Jen Tsai
- Department of Pharmacology, Institute for Drug Evaluation Platform, Development Center for Biotechnology, Taipei, Taiwan, Republic of China
| | - Ann Chen
- Department of Pathology, Tri-Service General Hospital, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei, Taiwan, Republic of China
| | - Sung-Sen Yang
- Division of Nephrology, Department of Internal Medicine, Tri-Service General Hospital, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei, Taiwan, Republic of China
| | - Louis Kuoping Chao
- Department of Cosmeceutics, China Medical University, Taichung, Taiwan, Republic of China
| | - Shuk-Man Ka
- Graduate Institute of Aerospace and Undersea Medicine, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei, Taiwan, Republic of China
- * E-mail:
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Vanden Berghe W, Sabbe L, Kaileh M, Haegeman G, Heyninck K. Molecular insight in the multifunctional activities of Withaferin A. Biochem Pharmacol 2012; 84:1282-91. [PMID: 22981382 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2012.08.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 144] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2012] [Revised: 08/29/2012] [Accepted: 08/30/2012] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Herbal medicine which involves the use of plants for their medicinal value, dates as far back as the origin of mankind and demonstrates an array of applications including cardiovascular protection and anti-cancer activities, via antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and metabolic activities. Even today the popularity of medicinal herbs is still growing like in traditional medicines such as the Indian medicine, Ayurveda. One of the Ayurvedic medicinal plants is Withania somnifera Dunal, of which the important constituents are the withanolides. Among them, Withaferin A is one of the most bioactive compounds, exerting anti-inflammatory, pro-apoptotic but also anti-invasive and anti-angiogenic effects. In the context of modern pharmacology, a better insight in the underlying mechanism of the broad range of bioactivities exerted by Withaferin A is compulsory. Therefore, a lot of effort was made to explore the intracellular effects of Withaferin A and to characterize its target proteins. This review provides a decisive insight on the molecular basis of the health-promoting potential of Withaferin A.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wim Vanden Berghe
- Laboratory of Eukaryotic Gene Expression and Signal Transduction (LEGEST), Department of Physiology, Ghent University, Gent, Belgium
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