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Wang L, Ma X, Pan Y, Ye H, Liu Z, Kuang Z, Zhao Z, Liu A, Ji Y. pH-Responsive Calcium Ions and Crocetin Releasing Hydrogel for Accelerating Skin Wound Healing. Chem Asian J 2024:e202400198. [PMID: 38558255 DOI: 10.1002/asia.202400198] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2024] [Revised: 03/31/2024] [Accepted: 04/01/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024]
Abstract
The ideal and highly anticipated dressing for skin wounds should provide a moist environment, possess antibacterial properties, and ensure sustained drug release. In the present work, a hyaluronic acid-based hydrogel was formed by cross-linking crocetin and CaCO3@polyelectrolyte materials (CaCO3@PEM) microspheres with HA hydrogels via hydrogen bond and amido bonding (CaCO3@PEM@Cro@HA hydrogel, CPC@HA hydrogel). Moreover, the CPC@HA hydrogel had the capability of sustained, controlled release of calcium ions and crocetin via pH-sensitive and accelerated skin wound healing. The experiment results showed that the CPC@HA hydrogel exhibited porous network structures, stable physical properties, and had antibacterial properties and biocompatibility in vitro. In addition, the CPC@HA hydrogel covering on the skin wound could reduce inflammation and promote wound healing. The high expression of angiogenic cytokines (CD31) and epidermal terminal differentiation markers (Loricrin) of wound healing tissue suggested the CPC@HA hydrogel also had the function of promoting the remodeling of regenerated skin. Overall, CPC@HA hydrogel has promising potential for clinical applications in accelerating skin wound repair.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li Wang
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, 510006, China
| | - Xuemei Ma
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, 510006, China
| | - Yanan Pan
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, 510006, China
| | - Haoxiang Ye
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, 510006, China
| | - Zike Liu
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, 510006, China
| | - Zaoyuan Kuang
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, 510006, China
| | - Zhongxiang Zhao
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, 510006, China
| | - Aijun Liu
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, 510006, China
| | - Yuxing Ji
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, 510006, China
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2
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Liu C, Wang L, Zhou Y, Xia W, Wang Z, Kuang L, Hua D. Biogenic crocetin-crosslinked chitosan nanoparticles with high stability and drug loading for efficient radioprotection. Int J Biol Macromol 2024; 265:130756. [PMID: 38462118 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2024.130756] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2023] [Revised: 02/20/2024] [Accepted: 03/07/2024] [Indexed: 03/12/2024]
Abstract
The risk of radiation exposure increases with the development of nuclear energy and technology, and radiation protection receives more and more attention from public health and safety. However, the numerous adverse effects and low drug utilization limit the practical applications of radioprotective agents. In this study, we developed a biogenic crocetin-crosslinked chitosan nanoparticle with high stability and drug loading for efficient radioprotection. In detail, the nanoparticles were prepared using the natural antioxidant crocetin as a cross-linking reagent in amidation reactions of chitosan and mPEG-COOH. The nanoparticles exhibit a quick scavenging ability for common reactive oxygen species and reactive nitrogen in vitro. Meanwhile, cellular experiments demonstrate the good biocompatibility of the nanoparticles and the alleviation of radiation damage by scavenging reactive oxygen species, reducing apoptosis, and inhibiting DNA damage, etc. Importantly, the nanoparticles are effective in mitigating oxidative damage in major organs and maintaining peripheral blood cell content. In addition, they perform better radioprotective properties than free drug due to the significant extension of the blood half-life of crocetin in vivo from 10 min to 5 h. This work proposes a drug-crosslinking strategy for the design of a highly efficient radioprotective agent, which exhibits a promising prospect in the fields of nuclear emergency and public health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chang Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Radiation Medicine and Protection, School for Radiological and Interdisciplinary Sciences (RAD-X), Collaborative Innovation Center of Radiological Medicine of Jiangsu Higher Education Institutions, Soochow University, Suzhou 215123, China
| | - Lu Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Radiation Medicine and Protection, School for Radiological and Interdisciplinary Sciences (RAD-X), Collaborative Innovation Center of Radiological Medicine of Jiangsu Higher Education Institutions, Soochow University, Suzhou 215123, China
| | - Yi Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Radiation Medicine and Protection, School for Radiological and Interdisciplinary Sciences (RAD-X), Collaborative Innovation Center of Radiological Medicine of Jiangsu Higher Education Institutions, Soochow University, Suzhou 215123, China
| | - Wanyi Xia
- The First Clinical Medical College, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing 210023, China
| | - Ziyu Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Radiation Medicine and Protection, School for Radiological and Interdisciplinary Sciences (RAD-X), Collaborative Innovation Center of Radiological Medicine of Jiangsu Higher Education Institutions, Soochow University, Suzhou 215123, China.
| | - Liangju Kuang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Schepens Eye Research Institute of Massachusetts Eye & Ear, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114, USA.
| | - Daoben Hua
- State Key Laboratory of Radiation Medicine and Protection, School for Radiological and Interdisciplinary Sciences (RAD-X), Collaborative Innovation Center of Radiological Medicine of Jiangsu Higher Education Institutions, Soochow University, Suzhou 215123, China.
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Koch W, Wawruszak A, Kukula-Koch W, Zdziebło M, Helon P, Almarhoon ZM, Al-Omari B, Calina D, Sharifi-Rad J. Exploring the therapeutic efficacy of crocetin in oncology: an evidence-based review. Naunyn Schmiedebergs Arch Pharmacol 2024; 397:1455-1476. [PMID: 37736836 DOI: 10.1007/s00210-023-02714-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2023] [Accepted: 09/05/2023] [Indexed: 09/23/2023]
Abstract
With cancer being a leading cause of death globally, there is an urgent need to improve therapeutic strategies and identify effective chemotherapeutics. This study aims to highlight the potential of crocetin, a natural product derived from certain plants, as an anticancer agent. It was conducted an extensive review of the existing literature to gather and analyze the most recent data on the chemical properties of crocetin and its observed effects in various in vitro and in vivo studies. The study particularly focused on studies that examined crocetin's impact on cell cycle dynamics, apoptosis, caspases and antioxidant enzyme levels, tumor angiogenesis, inflammation, and overall tumor growth. Crocetin exhibited diverse anti-tumorigenic activities including inhibition of tumor cell proliferation, apoptosis induction, angiogenesis suppression, and potentiation of chemotherapy. Multiple cellular and molecular pathways such as the PI3K/Akt, MAPK and NF-κB were modulated by it. Crocetin demonstrates promising anti-cancer properties and offers potential as an adjunctive or alternative therapy in oncology. More large-scale, rigorously designed clinical trials are needed to establish therapeutic protocols and ascertain the comprehensive benefits and safety profile of crocetin in diverse cancer types.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wojciech Koch
- Department of Food and Nutrition, Medical University of Lublin, 4a Chodźki Str, 20-093, Lublin, Poland
| | - Anna Wawruszak
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Medical University of Lublin, 1 Chodźki Str, 20-093, Lublin, Poland
| | - Wirginia Kukula-Koch
- Department of Pharmacognosy with Medicinal Plants Garden, Medical University of Lublin, 1 Chodźki Str, 20-093, Lublin, Poland
| | - Magdalena Zdziebło
- Branch in Sandomierz, Jan Kochanowski University in Kielce, Schinzla 13a Str, 27-600, Sandomierz, Poland
| | - Paweł Helon
- Branch in Sandomierz, Jan Kochanowski University in Kielce, Schinzla 13a Str, 27-600, Sandomierz, Poland
| | - Zainab M Almarhoon
- Department of Chemistry, College of Science, King Saud University, P. O. Box 2455, Riyadh, 11451, Saudi Arabia
| | - Basem Al-Omari
- Department of Epidemiology and Population Health, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Khalifa University, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
| | - Daniela Calina
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, University of Medicine and Pharmacy of Craiova, 200349, Craiova, Romania.
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She CY, Deng YX, Wu QY, Li J. Comparative pharmacokinetic investigation on crocetin in hyperlipidemia and normal rats after oral administration. Naunyn Schmiedebergs Arch Pharmacol 2024:10.1007/s00210-024-03012-y. [PMID: 38386043 DOI: 10.1007/s00210-024-03012-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2023] [Accepted: 02/13/2024] [Indexed: 02/23/2024]
Abstract
Crocetin as one of the main components of saffron possesses a lot of pharmacological effects, especially the beneficial effects in the treatment of hyperlipidemia. However, the pharmacokinetics of crocetin in the pathological state of hyperlipidemia has not been reported. In present study, the pharmacokinetics of crocetin in hyperlipidemia rats after oral administration of crocetin was investigated and the possible mechanisms for the pharmacokinetics were explored. High-fat diet was used to induce hyperlipidemia in rats. The pharmacokinetics of crocetin was investigated in hyperlipidemia and normal rats after oral and intravenous administration of crocetin, and the possible mechanisms of the pharmacokinetic changes were investigated in terms of metabolism and absorption using in vitro incubation with liver microsomes and the everted gut sac method, respectively. Results indicated that the AUCs of crocetin in hyperlipidemia rats after oral administration of crocetin were remarkably decreased when compared with those in normal rats. Moreover, crocetin was also metabolized more rapidly in the liver microsomes of hyperlipidemia rats and intestinal absorption of crocetin was significantly reduced in hyperlipidemia rats. It suggested that the remarkably decreased AUCs of crocetin in hyperlipidemia rats might partly result from the result of faster metabolic elimination and reduced absorption of crocetin in the hyperlipidemia pathological state. And the present investigations conducted on rats demonstrate that further investigations into the kinetics of crocetin in humans with hyperlipidemia are necessary in order to ensure an adequate dosage in this indication.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cheng-Ye She
- Key Laboratory of Study and Discovery of Small Targeted Molecules of Hunan Province, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, 410013, China
- Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology and Traditional Chinese Medicine Research (Hunan Normal University), Ministry of Education, Changsha, 410081, China
- Department of Pharmaceutical Science, Medical College of Hunan Normal University, Changsha, 410013, China
| | - Yuan-Xiong Deng
- Key Laboratory of Study and Discovery of Small Targeted Molecules of Hunan Province, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, 410013, China.
- Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology and Traditional Chinese Medicine Research (Hunan Normal University), Ministry of Education, Changsha, 410081, China.
- Department of Pharmaceutical Science, Medical College of Hunan Normal University, Changsha, 410013, China.
| | - Qin-Yu Wu
- Key Laboratory of Study and Discovery of Small Targeted Molecules of Hunan Province, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, 410013, China
- Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology and Traditional Chinese Medicine Research (Hunan Normal University), Ministry of Education, Changsha, 410081, China
- Department of Pharmaceutical Science, Medical College of Hunan Normal University, Changsha, 410013, China
| | - Jing Li
- Key Laboratory of Study and Discovery of Small Targeted Molecules of Hunan Province, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, 410013, China
- Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology and Traditional Chinese Medicine Research (Hunan Normal University), Ministry of Education, Changsha, 410081, China
- Department of Pharmaceutical Science, Medical College of Hunan Normal University, Changsha, 410013, China
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Fan T, Jiang K, Wang Z, Chang Y, Tian H, Huang J. Crocetin inhibits mast cell-dependent immediate-type allergic reactions through Ca 2+/PLC/IP3 and TNF pathway. Int Immunopharmacol 2024; 128:111583. [PMID: 38286072 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2024.111583] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2023] [Revised: 01/21/2024] [Accepted: 01/22/2024] [Indexed: 01/31/2024]
Abstract
Crocetin is a kind of glycocone naturally occurring in Crocus sativus L.. It is an active metabolite produced by biohydrolysis of Crocus sativus L.. Crocetin has anti-cardiovascular diseases and antioxidant effects, but its anti-allergic effect has not been reported. In this study, the inhibitory effect of crocetin on immunoglobulin E (IgE) - mediated allergic reaction and the mechanism of action were investigated. The passive cutaneous anaphylaxis (PCA) was used to elucidate the anti-allergic effects of crocetin in vivo. Degranulation assay, calcium imaging, and cytokine release assay were to evaluate the anti-allergic effect of crocetin in vitro. We found that crocetin IgE-mediated RBL-2H3 cell degranulation and allergy both in vitro and in vivo. The TNF pathway was inhibited by crocetin in our RNA-seq sequences, Furthermore, crocetin inhibits IgE-mediated calcium influx, and PLC / IP3 phosphorylation in RBL-2H3 cells. Our findings suggested that crocetin revealed prominent anti-allergy activity through TNF and Ca2+/PLC/IP3 pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ting Fan
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Honghui Hospital, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi Province, China
| | - Kai Jiang
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Honghui Hospital, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi Province, China
| | - Zixiao Wang
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Honghui Hospital, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi Province, China
| | - Yu Chang
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Honghui Hospital, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi Province, China
| | - Hua Tian
- Department of Respiratory and geriatrics, Honghui Hospital, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi Province, China.
| | - Jing Huang
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Honghui Hospital, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi Province, China.
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Lin S, Chen Z, Wu Z, Fei F, Xu Z, Tong Y, Sun W, Wang P. Involvement of PI3K/AKT Pathway in the Rapid Antidepressant Effects of Crocetin in Mice with Depression-Like Phenotypes. Neurochem Res 2024; 49:477-491. [PMID: 37935859 DOI: 10.1007/s11064-023-04051-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2023] [Revised: 09/22/2023] [Accepted: 10/17/2023] [Indexed: 11/09/2023]
Abstract
The current first-line antidepressants have the drawback of slow onset, which greatly affects the treatment of depression. Crocetin, one of the main active ingredients in saffron (Crocus sativus L.), has been demonstrated to have antidepressant activities, but whether it has a rapid antidepressant effect remains unclear. This study aimed to investigate the onset, duration, and mechanisms of the rapid antidepressant activity of crocetin (20, 40 and 80 mg/kg, intraperitoneal injection) in male mice subjected to chronic restraint stress (CRS). The results of behavioral tests showed that crocetin exerted rapid antidepressant-like effect in mice with depression-like phenotypes, including rapid normalization of depressive-like behaviors within 3 h, and the effects could be maintained for 2 days. Hematoxylin-eosin (HE) and Nissl staining showed that crocetin ameliorated hippocampal neuroinflammation and nerve injuries in mice with depression-like phenotypes. The levels of inflammatory factors, corticosterone and pro brain-derived neurotrophic factor in crocetin-administrated mice serum were significantly reduced compared with those in the CRS group, as well as the levels of inflammatory factors in hippocampus. What's more, Western blot analyses showed that, compared to CRS-induced mice, the relative levels of mitogen-activated kinase phosphatase 1 and toll-like receptor 4 were significantly reduced after the administration of crocetin, and the relative expressions of extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1/2 (ERK1/2), cAMP-response element binding protein, phosphorylated phosphoinositide 3 kinase (p-PI3K)/PI3K, phosphorylated protein kinase B (p-AKT)/AKT, phosphorylated glycogen synthase kinase 3β (p-GSK3β)/GSK3β, phosphorylated mammalian target of rapamycin (p-mTOR)/mTOR were markedly upregulated. In conclusion, crocetin exerted rapid antidepressant effects via suppressing the expression of inflammatory cytokines and the apoptosis of neuronal cells through PI3K/AKT signaling pathways. The rapid antidepressant effect of crocetin (40 mg/kg) could be maintained for at least 2 days after single treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susu Lin
- The First Hospital of Jiaxing, Affiliated Hospital of Jiaxing University, Jiaxing, 314001, People's Republic of China
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University of Technology, No. 18 Chaowang Road, Hangzhou, 310014, People's Republic of China
| | - Ziwei Chen
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University of Technology, No. 18 Chaowang Road, Hangzhou, 310014, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhaoruncheng Wu
- School of Biomedical engineering, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, 510515, People's Republic of China
| | - Fei Fei
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University of Technology, No. 18 Chaowang Road, Hangzhou, 310014, People's Republic of China
| | - Zijin Xu
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University of Technology, No. 18 Chaowang Road, Hangzhou, 310014, People's Republic of China
- College of Pharmacy, Jiangxi Medical College, Shangrao, 334000, Jiangxi, People's Republic of China
| | - Yingpeng Tong
- Institute of Natural Medicine and Health Product, School of Advanced Study, Taizhou University, Taizhou, 318000, People's Republic of China
| | - Wenyu Sun
- The First Hospital of Jiaxing, Affiliated Hospital of Jiaxing University, Jiaxing, 314001, People's Republic of China.
| | - Ping Wang
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University of Technology, No. 18 Chaowang Road, Hangzhou, 310014, People's Republic of China.
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Lee JH, Lee SR, Lee SY, Lee PC. Complete microbial synthesis of crocetin and crocins from glycerol in Escherichia coli. Microb Cell Fact 2024; 23:10. [PMID: 38178149 PMCID: PMC10765794 DOI: 10.1186/s12934-023-02287-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2023] [Accepted: 12/23/2023] [Indexed: 01/06/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Crocin, a glycosylated apocarotenoid pigment predominantly found in saffron, has garnered significant interest in the field of biotechnology for its bioactive properties. Traditional production of crocins and their aglycone, crocetin, typically involves extraction from crocin-producing plants. This study aimed to develop an alternative biosynthetic method for these compounds by engineering the metabolic pathways of zeaxanthin, crocetin, and crocin in Escherichia coli strains. RESULTS Employing a series of genetic modifications and the strategic overexpression of key enzymes, we successfully established a complete microbial pathway for synthesizing crocetin and four glycosylated derivatives of crocetin, utilizing glycerol as the primary carbon source. The overexpression of zeaxanthin cleavage dioxygenase and a novel variant of crocetin dialdehyde dehydrogenase resulted in a notable yield of crocetin (34.77 ± 1.03 mg/L). Further optimization involved the overexpression of new types of crocetin and crocin-2 glycosyltransferases, facilitating the production of crocin-1 (6.29 ± 0.19 mg/L), crocin-2 (5.29 ± 0.24 mg/L), crocin-3 (1.48 ± 0.10 mg/L), and crocin-4 (2.72 ± 0.13 mg/L). CONCLUSIONS This investigation introduces a pioneering and integrated microbial synthesis method for generating crocin and its derivatives, employing glycerol as a sustainable carbon feedstock. The substantial yields achieved highlight the commercial potential of microbial-derived crocins as an eco-friendly alternative to plant extraction methods. The development of these microbial processes not only broadens the scope for crocin production but also suggests significant implications for the exploitation of bioengineered compounds in pharmaceutical and food industries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jun Ho Lee
- Department of Molecular Science and Technology, Department of Applied Chemical and Biological Engineering, Ajou University, Woncheon-dong, Yeongtong-gu, Suwon, 16499, Republic of Korea
| | - Seong-Rae Lee
- Department of Molecular Science and Technology, Department of Applied Chemical and Biological Engineering, Ajou University, Woncheon-dong, Yeongtong-gu, Suwon, 16499, Republic of Korea
| | - Sang Yup Lee
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST), 291 Daehak-ro, Yuseong-gu, Daejeon, 34141, Republic of Korea
| | - Pyung Cheon Lee
- Department of Molecular Science and Technology, Department of Applied Chemical and Biological Engineering, Ajou University, Woncheon-dong, Yeongtong-gu, Suwon, 16499, Republic of Korea.
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Wang C, Li X, Su J, Duan J, Yao Y, Shang Q. Crocetin inhibits choroidal neovascularization in both in vitro and in vivo models. Exp Eye Res 2024; 238:109751. [PMID: 38097101 DOI: 10.1016/j.exer.2023.109751] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2023] [Revised: 11/18/2023] [Accepted: 12/11/2023] [Indexed: 12/21/2023]
Abstract
Choroidal neovascularization (CNV) is the primary pathogenic process underlying wet age-related macular degeneration, leading to severe vision loss. Despite current anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) therapies, several limitations persist. Crocetin, a major bioactive constituent of saffron, exhibits multiple pharmacological activities, yet its role and mechanism in CNV remain unclear. Here, we investigated the potential effects of crocetin on CNV using in vitro and in vivo models. In human umbilical vein endothelial cells, crocetin demonstrated inhibition of VEGF-induced cell proliferation, migration, and tube formation in vitro, as assessed by CCK-8 and EdU assays, transwell and scratch assays, and tube formation analysis. Additionally, crocetin suppressed choroidal sprouting in ex vivo experiments. In the human retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) cell line ARPE-19, crocetin attenuated cobalt chloride-induced hypoxic cell injury, as evidenced by CCK-8 assay. As evaluated by quantitative PCR and Western blot assay, it also reduced hypoxia-induced expression of VEGF and hypoxia-inducible factor 1α (HIF-1α), while enhancing zonula occludens-1 expression. In a laser-induced CNV mouse model, intravitreal administration of crocetin significantly reduced CNV size and suppressed elevated expressions of VEGF, HIF-1α, TNFα, IL-1β, and IL-6. Moreover, crocetin treatment attenuated the elevation of phospho-S6 in laser-induced CNV and hypoxia-induced RPE cells, suggesting its potential anti-angiogenic effects through antagonizing the mechanistic target of rapamycin complex 1 (mTORC1) signaling. Our findings indicate that crocetin may hold promise as an effective drug for the prevention and treatment of CNV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caixia Wang
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, 050000, Hebei, China
| | - Xuejing Li
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, 050000, Hebei, China
| | - Jing Su
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, 050000, Hebei, China
| | - Jialiang Duan
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, 050000, Hebei, China
| | - Yimin Yao
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, 050000, Hebei, China
| | - Qingli Shang
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, 050000, Hebei, China.
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Saadat S, Ghasemi Z, Memarzia A, Behrouz S, Aslani MR, Boskabady MH. An overview of pharmacological effects of Crocus sativous and its constituents. Iran J Basic Med Sci 2024; 27:391-417. [PMID: 38419885 PMCID: PMC10897555 DOI: 10.22038/ijbms.2023.73410.15950] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2023] [Accepted: 10/30/2023] [Indexed: 03/02/2024]
Abstract
Crocus sativus L. was used for the treatment of a wide range of disorders in traditional medicine. Due to the extensive protective and treatment properties of C. sativus and its constituents in various diseases, the purpose of this review is to collect a summary of its effects, on experimental studies, both in vitro and in vivo. Databases such as PubMed, Science Direct, and Scopus were explored until January 2023 by employing suitable keywords. Several investigations have indicated that the therapeutic properties of C. sativus may be due to its anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory effects on the nervous, cardiovascular, immune, and respiratory systems. Further research has shown that its petals also have anticonvulsant properties. Pharmacological studies have shown that crocetin and safranal have anti-oxidant properties and through inhibiting the release of free radicals lead to the prevention of disorders such as tumor cell proliferation, atherosclerosis, hepatotoxicity, bladder toxicity, and ethanol induced hippocampal disorders. Numerous studies have been performed on the effect of C. sativus and its constituents in laboratory animal models under in vitro and in vivo conditions on various disorders. This is necessary but not enough and more clinical trials are needed to investigate unknown aspects of the therapeutic properties of C. sativus and its main constituents in different disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saeideh Saadat
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, Zahedan University of Medical Sciences, Zahedan, Iran
- Applied Biomedical Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
- These authors contributed equally to this work
| | - Zahra Ghasemi
- Applied Biomedical Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
- These authors contributed equally to this work
| | - Arghavan Memarzia
- Applied Biomedical Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
- Student Research Committee, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Sepideh Behrouz
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Mohammad Reza Aslani
- Applied Biomedical Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
- Lung Diseases Research Center, Faculty of Medicine, Ardabil University of Medical Sciences, Ardabil, Iran
| | - Mohammad Hossein Boskabady
- Applied Biomedical Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
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Tong Z, Liu X, Tao Y, Feng P, Luan F, Jie X, Xie Z, Pu F, Xu Z, Wang P. Enhancement of dissolution and oral bioavailability by adjusting microenvironment pH in crocetin ternary solid dispersions: Optimization, characterization, in vitro evaluation, and pharmacokinetics. Drug Deliv Transl Res 2023:10.1007/s13346-023-01497-3. [PMID: 38117406 DOI: 10.1007/s13346-023-01497-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/11/2023] [Indexed: 12/21/2023]
Abstract
The most promising active ingredient of Crocus sativus L., crocetin (CCT), has been demonstrated to possess many biological activities. However, only a few studies have been conducted on CCT formulation, especially in oral formulation, mainly due to its insolubility in water, which limits its application for oral administration. This article reports an equilibrium saturation solubility and single-pass intestinal perfusion studies conducted to classify the biopharmaceutics classification system (BCS) of CCT. To enhance in vitro dissolution and in vivo oral bioavailability, ternary solid dispersions of CCT (CCT-SDs) with soluplus (SOL) as hydrophilic carrier and meglumine (MEG) as alkalizer were optimized using response surface methodology (RSM) with central composite design (CCD) experiments. Four different preparation methods were evaluated using the optimal formulation, including solvent evaporation, ball milling, spray drying, and freeze-drying. Prepared formulations were characterized by TG-DSC, FTIR, X-RPD, and SEM; the pharmacokinetic studies were performed in rats after oral administration. The cumulative dissolution rate of CCT-SDs containing SOL and MEG prepared by the ball milling method was 97.1% at 15 min and remained at 95.6% at 480 min, which was significantly higher than that of untreated CCT. The lower crystallinity, smaller particle size, and higher microenvironment pH (pHM) were observed in CCT-SDs prepared by the ball milling method. In vivo absorption of CCT-SDs (Cmax = 52.789 ± 12.441 μg/mL and AUC0-12 = 191.748 ± 35.043 μg/mL·h) was greater than untreated CCT (Cmax = 5.918 ± 1.388 μg/mL and AUC0-12 = 44.309 ± 7.264 μg/mL·h). In conclusion, the current study provides ternary solid dispersion formulation of CCT to increase the in vitro dissolution and in vivo bioavailability, which will benefit the commercial production and future clinical applications of CCT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zheren Tong
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou, 310014, China
| | - Xianyin Liu
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Jiangxi Medical College, Shangrao, 334000, China
| | - Yi Tao
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou, 310014, China
| | - Peishi Feng
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou, 310014, China
| | - Fujia Luan
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Jiangxi Medical College, Shangrao, 334000, China
| | - Xiaolu Jie
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou, 310014, China
| | - Zhangfu Xie
- Zhejiang Suichang Liming Pharmaceutical Co., LTD, Suichang, 323300, China
| | - Faxiang Pu
- Zhejiang Suichang Liming Pharmaceutical Co., LTD, Suichang, 323300, China
| | - Zijin Xu
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Jiangxi Medical College, Shangrao, 334000, China.
| | - Ping Wang
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou, 310014, China.
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Mazani M, Mahdavifard S, Koohi A. Crocetin ameliorative effect on diabetic nephropathy in rats through a decrease in transforming growth factor-β and an increase in glyoxalase-I activity. Clin Nutr ESPEN 2023; 58:61-66. [PMID: 38057037 DOI: 10.1016/j.clnesp.2023.08.033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2023] [Revised: 08/23/2023] [Accepted: 08/29/2023] [Indexed: 12/08/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND & AIMS Glycation, oxidative stress, and inflammation due to the elevation of transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1) participate in diabetic nephropathy (DN). Thus, we investigated for the first time the effect of crocetin (Crt) on the renal histopathological parameters, TGF-β1 and glycation, oxidative stress, as well as inflammatory markers in the DN rat model. METHODS Forty male Wistar rats were randomly divided into 4 equal groups: normal (N), N + Crt, DN, and DN + Crt. DN was induced in rats with a combination of nephrectomy and streptozotocin. Treated groups received 100 mg/kg of Crt via intraperitoneal injection monthly for 3 months. Different glycation (glycated albumin, glycated LDL, Methylglyoxal, and pentosidine), oxidative stress (advanced oxidation protein products, malondialdehyde, glutathione, and paraoxonase-I (PON-1)), and inflammatory markers (tumor necrosis factor-α, myeloperoxidase, and TGF-β1), blood glucose, insulin, lipid profile, creatinine in the serum, and proteinuria, as well as the glyoxalase-1 (GLO-1) activity, was determined. RESULTS Crt decreased renal biochemical (Cre and PU) and histopathological (glomerulosclerosis) renal dysfunction parameters, diverse glycation, oxidative stress, and inflammatory markers in the DN rats. Furthermore, the treatment corrected glycemia, insulin resistance, and dyslipidemia as well as induced the activities of GLO-1 and PON-1. Over and above, the treatment decreased TGF-β1 in their serum (p > 0.001). CONCLUSIONS Crocetin improved DN owing to an advantageous effect on metabolic profile. Further, the treatment with a reducing effect on TGF-β1, oxidative stress, glycation, and inflammation markers along with an increase in Glo-1 activity showed multiple protective effects on kidney tissue.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad Mazani
- Professor of the Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Ardabil University of Medical Sciences, Ardabil, Iran
| | - Sina Mahdavifard
- Associate Professor of the Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Ardabil University of Medical Sciences, Ardabil, Iran.
| | - Alireza Koohi
- Medicine Student of Faculty of Medicine, Ardabil University of Medical Sciences, Ardabil, Iran
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Mohammadi S, Naseri M, Faridi N, Zareie P, Zare L, Mirnajafi-Zadeh J, Bathaie SZ. Saffron carotenoids reversed the UCMS-induced depression and anxiety in rats: Behavioral and biochemical parameters, and hippocampal BDNF/ERK/CREB and NR2B signaling markers. Phytomedicine 2023; 119:154989. [PMID: 37506574 DOI: 10.1016/j.phymed.2023.154989] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2023] [Revised: 06/13/2023] [Accepted: 07/18/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Depression is a debilitating condition that affects the mind and the individual's body. The improving effects of saffron on depression and anxiety have long been discussed, with limited information about the molecular mechanism of action. HYPOTHESIS/PURPOSE Investigating the effect of saffron carotenoids, Crocin and Crocetin, on depression and anxiety in rats by emphasizing some signaling pathways involved. STUDY DESIGN Depression and anxiety were induced in rats via unpredictable chronic mild stress (UCMS). Then different rat groups were treated with Crocin, Crocetin, Fluoxetine, and vehicle. Behavioral tests were done before and after treatment. METHODS The serum Serotonin and Corticosterone and the expression of some hippocampal signaling proteins were studied. Furthermore, bioinformatics tools were used to predict the interactions of Crocin/ Crocetin with the Serotonin transporter and NMDA receptor subunit NR2B. Then, the patch-clamp was used to study the interaction of Crocetin with the NMDA receptor. RESULTS Various behavioral tests confirmed the induction of depression and the improvement of depression by these natural carotenoids. In addition, Crocin/ Crocetin significantly increased the decreased serum Serotonin and reduced the increased serum Corticosterone in the depressed groups. They also increased or caused a trend of increase in the CREB, ERK, BAD, BDNF, p11, and 5-HT1B expression in the hippocampus of the depressed groups. In addition, there were an increase or a trend in p-CREB/CREB, p-ERK1/2 /ERK1/2, and p-BAD/BAD ratios in the Crocin/ Crocetin treated depressed groups. However, the NR2B and FOXO3a expression showed a trend of decrease in depressed groups after treatment. The bioinformatics data indicated that Crocin/ Crocetin could bind to the Serotonin transporter (SLC6A4) and NR2B subunit of the NMDA receptor. Both carotenoids bind to the same site as Fluoxetine in the SLC6A4. However, they bound to different sites on the NR2B. So, Crocetin binds to NR2B at the same site as Ifenprodil. But Crocin bound to another site. The whole cell patch-clamp recording on the normal rat hippocampus revealed a significant decrease in the NMDA peak amplitude after Crocetin treatment, indicating its inhibitory effect on this receptor. CONCLUSION The antidepressant activities of Crocin/ Crocetin are possibly due to their effects on Serotonin and Corticosterone serum concentrations, NR2B expression, and the downstream signaling pathways. Furthermore, these natural carotenoids, like Fluoxetine, induced an increasing tendency in p11 and 5HT1B in depressed rats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sahar Mohammadi
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohsen Naseri
- Traditional Medicine Clinical Trial Research Center, Shahed University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Nassim Faridi
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Parisa Zareie
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Leila Zare
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Javad Mirnajafi-Zadeh
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
| | - S Zahra Bathaie
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran; Institute for Natural Products and Medicinal Plants, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran; UCLA-DOE Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, United States of America.
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Liu Z, Wang Z, Zhu Z, Hong J, Cui L, Hao Y, Cheng G, Tan R. Crocetin Regulates Functions of Neural Stem Cells to Generate New Neurons for Cerebral Ischemia Recovery. Adv Healthc Mater 2023; 12:e2203132. [PMID: 37001492 DOI: 10.1002/adhm.202203132] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2022] [Revised: 03/25/2023] [Indexed: 04/03/2023]
Abstract
Many neurons undergo apoptosis after ischemic stroke. In the brain, neurogenesis has the potential for neuronal replacement and can be activated by external conditions to repair the injury. Crocetin (CRO), naturally extracted from the plant saffron, acts as a neuroprotective agent for ischemic stroke. However, the underlying mechanism remains unknown. In this work, the effect of CRO on neural stem cell (NSC) behaviors and subventricular zone neurogenesis is investigated. Initially, NSCs are incubated with different concentrations of CRO to detect the cell proliferation and differentiation in vitro. Second, ischemic stroke induced rats are treated with CRO using nimodipine (NMDP) as a comparison. The behavioral functions, infarcted volume, and apoptotic Nissl bodies of rats are noticeably improved after CRO-treatment, comparable to those of NMDP. In addition, the increased regional cerebral blood flow and promoted neuronal differentiation are achieved by CRO-treatment. Brain tissue examination shows significantly increased neuronal regeneration in the focal ischemic injury area. Meanwhile, the length of neurites is prolonged, indicating that CRO could potentially promote neurite extension to enhance cell-cell communication. These findings demonstrate that CRO facilitated the neuronal differentiation of NSCs by activating subventricular zone neurogenesis in damaged cortex and striatum sites to repair ischemic stroke.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhongqing Liu
- College of Life Science and Engineering, Southwest Jiaotong University, Chengdu, 610031, China
| | - Zhaojun Wang
- College of Life Science and Engineering, Southwest Jiaotong University, Chengdu, 610031, China
| | - Zhanchi Zhu
- School of Nano-Tech and Nano-Bionics, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, 230026, China
- CAS Key Laboratory of Nano-Bio Interface, Suzhou Institute of Nano-Tech and Nano Bionics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Suzhou, Jiangsu, 215123, China
| | - Jing Hong
- School of Nano-Tech and Nano-Bionics, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, 230026, China
- CAS Key Laboratory of Nano-Bio Interface, Suzhou Institute of Nano-Tech and Nano Bionics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Suzhou, Jiangsu, 215123, China
| | - Leisha Cui
- School of Nano-Tech and Nano-Bionics, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, 230026, China
- CAS Key Laboratory of Nano-Bio Interface, Suzhou Institute of Nano-Tech and Nano Bionics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Suzhou, Jiangsu, 215123, China
| | - Ying Hao
- School of Nano-Tech and Nano-Bionics, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, 230026, China
- CAS Key Laboratory of Nano-Bio Interface, Suzhou Institute of Nano-Tech and Nano Bionics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Suzhou, Jiangsu, 215123, China
| | - Guosheng Cheng
- School of Nano-Tech and Nano-Bionics, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, 230026, China
- CAS Key Laboratory of Nano-Bio Interface, Suzhou Institute of Nano-Tech and Nano Bionics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Suzhou, Jiangsu, 215123, China
| | - Rui Tan
- College of Life Science and Engineering, Southwest Jiaotong University, Chengdu, 610031, China
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Li Q, Feng P, Lin S, Xu Z, Zhao J, Chen Z, Luo Z, Tao Y, Chen S, Wang P. Crocetin confers neuroprotection and is anti-inflammatory in rats with induced glaucoma. Mol Biol Rep 2023; 50:1321-1331. [PMID: 36456771 DOI: 10.1007/s11033-022-08102-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2022] [Accepted: 11/08/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Crocetin is a bioactive ingredient in saffron, derived from the Crocus sativus stigmas of the Iridaceae family. As a chemically carotenoid derivative, crocetin exhibites effects like anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, neuroprotective, etc. However, the protective effect of crocetin on glaucoma and its mechanism remains unclear. The current study assesed the neuroprotective and anti-inflammatory effects of crocetin on retinal neurons in glaucoma rats which were induced by 0.3% carbomer injection into the anterior chamber. METHODS AND RESULTS The pathological structures on the retina and optic nerve were observed and examined by H&E staining and transmission electron microscopy. Immunohistochemical staining was used to detect the expression of TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6 of the retina and the expression of a brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) in the primary visual cortex (PVC). Western blot was carried out to detect the expression of PI3K, Akt, and NF-κB in the retina. It was found that crocetin ameliorated the pathological changes of the retina and ON and reduced the number of apoptotic retinal ganglion cells. Immunohistochemical staining showed that crocetin could decrease the contents of TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6 and increase the contents of BDNF. Western blot showed that crocetin was found to suppress the expression of PI3K, Akt, and NF-κB. CONCLUSION The results obtained in this study have indicated that crocetin showes neuroprotective effects on retinal ganglion cells in glaucoma rats and inhibits retinal dysfunction. Meanwhile, crocetin exerted an anti-inflammatory effect to protect the retina by inhibiting the expression of the PI3K/Akt/NF-κB signaling pathway. This work provides substantial evidence that crocetin may be a potential drug for the treatment of glaucoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiaoqiao Li
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University of Technology, No.18, Chaowang Road, 310014, Hangzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Peishi Feng
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University of Technology, No.18, Chaowang Road, 310014, Hangzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Susu Lin
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University of Technology, No.18, Chaowang Road, 310014, Hangzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Zijin Xu
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University of Technology, No.18, Chaowang Road, 310014, Hangzhou, People's Republic of China
- College of Pharmacy, Jiangxi Medical College, 334000, Shangrao, Jiangxi, People's Republic of China
| | - Jiajing Zhao
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University of Technology, No.18, Chaowang Road, 310014, Hangzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Ziwei Chen
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University of Technology, No.18, Chaowang Road, 310014, Hangzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Zirui Luo
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University of Technology, No.18, Chaowang Road, 310014, Hangzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Yi Tao
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University of Technology, No.18, Chaowang Road, 310014, Hangzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Suhong Chen
- Collaborative Innovation Center of Yangtze River Delta Region Green Pharmaceuticals, Zhejiang University of Technology, No.18, Chaowang Road, 310014, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, People's Republic of China.
| | - Ping Wang
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University of Technology, No.18, Chaowang Road, 310014, Hangzhou, People's Republic of China.
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Aslani MR, Armin F, Abedi A, Keramati E, Ghobadi H. Potential role of saffron and its components on miRNA levels in various disorders, a comprehensive review. Iran J Basic Med Sci 2023; 26:1120-1130. [PMID: 37736510 PMCID: PMC10510481 DOI: 10.22038/ijbms.2023.71915.15627] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2023] [Accepted: 07/02/2023] [Indexed: 09/23/2023]
Abstract
The potential therapeutic benefits of saffron and its active constituents have been investigated for the treatment of numerous illnesses. In this review, the impacts of saffron and its essential components on the levels of microRNAs (miRNAs) in different diseases have been delineated. Relevant articles were obtained through databases such as PubMed, Web of Sciences, Scopus, and Google Scholar up to the end of November 2022. miRNA expression has been altered by saffron and its active substances (crocin, crocetin, and safranal) which has been of great advantage in treating diseases such as cardiovascular, type 2 diabetes, cancers, gastrointestinal and liver disorders, central and peripheral nervous system disorders, asthma, osteoarthritis, ischemic-reperfusion induced injury conditions, and renal disorder. This study uncovered the potential restorative advantages of saffron and its derivatives, in miRNA imbalances in a variety of diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad Reza Aslani
- Lung Diseases Research Center, Ardabil University of Medical Sciences, Ardabil, Iran
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Ardabil University of Medical Sciences, Ardabil, Iran
| | - Farshad Armin
- Lung Diseases Research Center, Ardabil University of Medical Sciences, Ardabil, Iran
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Ardabil University of Medical Sciences, Ardabil, Iran
| | - Ali Abedi
- Lung Diseases Research Center, Ardabil University of Medical Sciences, Ardabil, Iran
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Ardabil University of Medical Sciences, Ardabil, Iran
| | - Elham Keramati
- Lung Diseases Research Center, Ardabil University of Medical Sciences, Ardabil, Iran
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Ardabil University of Medical Sciences, Ardabil, Iran
| | - Hassan Ghobadi
- Lung Diseases Research Center, Ardabil University of Medical Sciences, Ardabil, Iran
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Demirci Kucuk K, Tokuc EO, Aciksari A, Duruksu G, Yazir Y, Karabas VL. The effects of crocetin on oxidative stress induced ARPE-19 cells by H 2O 2. Exp Eye Res 2023; 226:109305. [PMID: 36372214 DOI: 10.1016/j.exer.2022.109305] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2022] [Revised: 10/29/2022] [Accepted: 11/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
The anti-apoptotic and antioxidant effects of crocetin was aimed to investigate on the oxidative damage model of ARPE-19 cells. The oxidative damage in ARPE cells was developed by H2O2 treatment at 800 μM. Different doses of crocetin (1-80 μM) were applied for 24 h, and the effects on viability were evaluated to find out the optimum drug dose. At first, three effective doses of crocetin (10, 20, 40 μM) on cell viability were selected for further analyses. The levels of superoxide dismutase (SOD), malondialdehyde (MDA) and glutathione (GSH) were determined, and the expression of pro-apoptotic Bax gene and anti-apoptotic Bcl-2 gene were evaluated. The most effective crocetin dose on cell viability was found to be 10 μM. After the H2O2 treatment, SOD and GSH were decreased and MDA were increased significantly (p = 0.011, 0.037, 0.018, respectively). Following the crocetin treatment at 10 μM, SOD and GSH activities were improved compared to the no drug group; and MDA level was declined remarkably (p = 0.022, 0.019, 0.029, respectively). The Bcl-2 level was significantly decreased (p < 0.01), while the Bax1 and Nrf2 expression and ROS level was increased significantly in the damage model group (p < 0.01). After the drug treatment, the Bax1 and Nrf2 expression level were decreased in all groups (p < 0.01). The increase in Bcl-2 expression was significant in crocetin 40 μM (p < 0.05) and the decrease in ROS level were significant in 20 μM and 40 μM doses of crocetin (p < 0.05). It has been shown that crocetin might be used as an antioxidant and anti-apoptotic agent on the hindering the effect of the oxidative damage. Following the development of the oxidative stress in the cells, crocetin reversed the damage signals. By the in vitro tests, it was shown that crocetin might be considered as an effective molecule to be used in the AMD treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kübra Demirci Kucuk
- Kocaeli University School of Medicine, Department of Ophthalmology, Izmit, Kocaeli, Turkey.
| | - Ecem Onder Tokuc
- Kocaeli University School of Medicine, Department of Ophthalmology, Izmit, Kocaeli, Turkey.
| | - Aysegul Aciksari
- Kocaeli University, Center for Stem Cells and Gene Therapies Research and Practice, Izmit, Kocaeli, Turkey.
| | - Gokhan Duruksu
- Kocaeli University, Center for Stem Cells and Gene Therapies Research and Practice, Izmit, Kocaeli, Turkey.
| | - Yusufhan Yazir
- Kocaeli University, Center for Stem Cells and Gene Therapies Research and Practice, Izmit, Kocaeli, Turkey; Kocaeli University School of Medicine, Department of Histology and Embryology, Izmit, Kocaeli, Turkey.
| | - Veysel Levent Karabas
- Kocaeli University School of Medicine, Department of Ophthalmology, Izmit, Kocaeli, Turkey.
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Lin S, Li Q, Xu Z, Chen Z, Tao Y, Tong Y, Wang T, Chen S, Wang P. Detection of the role of intestinal flora and tryptophan metabolism involved in antidepressant-like actions of crocetin based on a multi-omics approach. Psychopharmacology (Berl) 2022; 239:3657-77. [PMID: 36169685 DOI: 10.1007/s00213-022-06239-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2022] [Accepted: 09/16/2022] [Indexed: 10/14/2022]
Abstract
RATIONALE Depression is a serious mood disorder, and crocetin has a variety of pharmacological activities, including antidepressant effect. The alterations of intestinal flora have a significant correlation with depression, and crocetin can alter the composition of intestinal flora in mice with depression-like behaviors. OBJECTIVE This study investigated the underlying antidepressant mechanisms of crocetin through multi-omics coupled with biochemical technique validation. METHODS Chronic unpredictable stress (CUMS) was used to induce mice model of depression to evaluate the antidepressant effect of crocetin through behavioral tests, and the metagenomic and metabolomic were used to explore the potential mechanisms involved. In order to verify its underlying mechanism, western blot (WB), Elisa, immune histological and HPLC techniques were used to detect the level of inflammatory cytokines and the level of metabolites/proteins related to tryptophan metabolism in crocetin-treated mice. RESULTS Crocetin ameliorated depression-like behaviors and increased mobility in depressive mice induced by CUMS. Metagenomic results showed that crocetin regulated the structure of intestinal flora, as well as significantly regulated the function gene related to derangements in energy metabolism and amino acid metabolism in mice with depression-like behaviors. Metabolomic results showed that the tryptophan metabolism, arginine metabolism and arachidonic acid metabolism played an essential role in exerting antidepressant-like effect of crocetin. According to multi-omics approaches and validation results, tryptophan metabolism and inflammation were identified and validated as valuable biological processes involved in the antidepressant effects of crocetin. Crocetin regulated the tryptophan metabolism in mice with depression-like behaviors, including increased aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) expression, reduced indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase 1 (IDO1) and serotonin transporter (SERT) expression in the hippocampus, elevated the content of 5-HT, kynurenic acid in serum and 5-HT, tryptophan in hippocampus. In addition, crocetin also attenuated inflammation in mice with depression-like behaviors, which presented with reducing the production of inflammatory cytokines in serum and colon. Meanwhile, crocetin up-regulated the expression of zonula occludens 1 (ZO-1) and occludin in ileum and colon to repair the intestinal barrier for preventing inflammation transfer. CONCLUSION Our findings clarify that crocetin exerted antidepressant effects through its anti-inflammation, repairment of intestinal barrier, modulatory on the intestinal flora and metabolic disorders, which further regulated tryptophan metabolism and impacted mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling pathway to enhance neural plasticity, thereby protect neural.
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Li J, Nan J, Wu H, Park HJ, Zhao Q, Yang L. Middle purity soy lecithin is appropriate for food grade nanoliposome: Preparation, characterization, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory ability. Food Chem 2022; 389:132931. [PMID: 35500405 DOI: 10.1016/j.foodchem.2022.132931] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2022] [Revised: 03/31/2022] [Accepted: 04/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
The purity of soy lecithin exerts significant impact on nanoliposome (NL) properties for food applications. In this study, three soy lecithin of different purity were used to prepare NL. LC-MS analysis confirmed soy lecithin of relatively low purify (50% and 70%) contains multiple natural phospholipids. NL produced by soy lecithin of middle purity (70%) is smaller and more stable than other counterparts. Ultimately, soy lecithin of 70% purity was selected to develop NL encapsulated crocetin (CR) as model payload and further coated by chitosan (CS). The structure characteristic, physicochemical properties, antioxidant activity and anti-inflammatory activity of crocetin nanoliposome (CR-NL) and chitosan coated crocetin nanoliposome (CS-CR-NL) were evaluated. NL encapsulation and CS coating significantly improve antioxidant and anti-inflammatory ability of CR, and prolong storage period of CR (p < 0.05). For food applications, soy lecithin of middle purity (70%) is cheaper and more appropriate than soy lecithin of high purity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jinglei Li
- School of Food and Biological Engineering, Hefei University of Technology, Hefei, China; Engineering Research Center of Bio-process, Ministry of Education, Hefei University of Technology, Hefei, China
| | - Jian Nan
- School of Food and Biological Engineering, Hefei University of Technology, Hefei, China
| | - Haishan Wu
- School of Food and Biological Engineering, Hefei University of Technology, Hefei, China
| | - Hyun Jin Park
- School of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Korea University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Qingsheng Zhao
- National Key Laboratory of Biochemical Engineering, Institute of Process Engineering, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Liu Yang
- School of Food and Biological Engineering, Hefei University of Technology, Hefei, China; Engineering Research Center of Bio-process, Ministry of Education, Hefei University of Technology, Hefei, China.
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Jafari F, Emami SA, Javadi B, Salmasi Z, Tayarani-Najjaran M, Tayarani-Najaran Z. Inhibitory effect of saffron, crocin, crocetin, and safranal against adipocyte differentiation in human adipose-derived stem cells. J Ethnopharmacol 2022; 294:115340. [PMID: 35551973 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2022.115340] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2022] [Revised: 04/20/2022] [Accepted: 04/30/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Saffron (Crocus sativus L.) has been introduced as a potential promising natural antioxidant with anti-obesity properties. In Persian Medicine, saffron has been used to control appetite and obesity. AIM OF THE STUDY The present study aims to investigate the effect of saffron and its bioactive compounds on adipocyte differentiation in human adipose-derived stem cells (ADSCs). MATERIALS AND METHODS Flow-Cytometric analysis was performed to quantify the cell surface markers. The extracts cytotoxicity on hASCs was measured using alamarBlue® assay whereas their activities against adipocyte differentiation were studied using Oil Red O staining. The level of Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-γ (PPARγ), Fatty Acid Synthetase (FAS), and Glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase (GAPHD) which are key proteins in cell differentiation was investigated by western blot analysis. RESULTS Flow-cytometry revealed the mesenchymal stem cells markers, CD44 and CD90, on ADSCs surface. The saffron, crocin, and crocetin significantly inhibited adipocyte differentiation while saffron up to 20 μg/mL and crocin, crocetin and safranal up to 20 μM did not exhibit cytotoxicity. The western blotting analysis revealed a remarkable reduction in the level of PPARγ, GAPDH, and FAS proteins by 10 and 20 μM of crocin and 2.5 and 5 μM of crocetin. CONCLUSION It seems that saffron, crocin, and crocetin could efficiently inhibit the differentiation of hASCs with benefits for the treatment and prevention of obesity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fatemeh Jafari
- Medical Toxicology Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran.
| | - Seyed Ahmad Emami
- Department of Traditional Pharmacy, School of Pharmacy, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran.
| | - Behjat Javadi
- Department of Traditional Pharmacy, School of Pharmacy, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran.
| | - Zahra Salmasi
- Nanotechnology Research Center, Pharmaceutical Technology Institute, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran; Department of Pharmaceutical Nanotechnology, School of Pharmacy, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran.
| | | | - Zahra Tayarani-Najaran
- Targeted Drug Delivery Research Center, Pharmaceutical Technology Institute, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran.
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20
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Khoshandam A, Razavi BM, Hosseinzadeh H. Interaction of saffron and its constituents with Nrf2 signaling pathway: A review. Iran J Basic Med Sci 2022; 25:789-798. [PMID: 36033950 PMCID: PMC9392575 DOI: 10.22038/ijbms.2022.61986.13719] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2021] [Accepted: 06/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Saffron (Crocus sativus) is a natural compound and its constituents such as crocin, crocetin, and safranal have many pharmacological properties such as anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory, antitumor, antigenotoxic, anti-depressant, hepatoprotective, cardioprotective, and neuroprotective. The nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) signaling pathway plays an important role against inflammation, oxidative stress, and carcinogenesis. In the regulation of the Nrf2 signaling pathway, kelch-like ECH-associated protein 1 (keap1) is the most studied pathway. In this review, we gathered various studies and describe the pharmacological effects of saffron and its constituents with their related mechanisms of action, particularly the Nrf2 signaling pathway. In this review, we used search engines or electronic databases including Scopus, Web of Science, and Pubmed, without time limitation. The search keywords contained saffron, "Crocus sativus", crocetin, crocin, safranal, picrocrocin, "nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2", and Nrf2. Saffron and its constituents could have protective properties through various mechanisms particularly the Nrf2/HO-1/Keap1 signaling pathway in different tissues such as the liver, heart, brain, pancreas, lung, joints, colon, etc. The vast majority of studies discussed in this review indicate that saffron and its constituents could induce the Nrf2 signaling pathway leading to its anti-oxidant and therapeutic effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arian Khoshandam
- School of Pharmacy, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Bibi Marjan Razavi
- Targeted Drug Delivery Research Center, Pharmaceutical Technology Institute, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran , Department of Pharmacodynamics and Toxicology, School of Pharmacy, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Hossein Hosseinzadeh
- Department of Pharmacodynamics and Toxicology, School of Pharmacy, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran , Pharmaceutical Research Center, Pharmaceutical Technology Institute, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran,Corresponding author: Hossein Hosseinzadeh. Pharmaceutical Research Center, Pharmaceutical Technology Institute, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran.
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21
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Fiorito S, Palumbo L, Epifano F, Collevecchio C, Cardellini F, Bastianini M, Spogli R, Genovese S. An easy way for the hydrolysis, pre-concentration, and chemical stabilization of crocetin from saffron powder. Food Chem 2022; 377:132040. [PMID: 34999454 DOI: 10.1016/j.foodchem.2022.132040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2021] [Revised: 12/30/2021] [Accepted: 01/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
To date there are no methods in the literature leading to crocetin selective concentration from saffron powder aqueous solutions. To this aim, we decided to test the performance of its heterogeneous extraction by means of a panel of 21 synthetic clays, 4 of which demonstrated to selectively retain crocetin in the solid phase after hydrolysis of its digentiobyosil ester (crocin) (and its isomers) and to its chemical stabilization (e.g., oxidation) over time. The best adsorption yield was obtained with zinc hydroxy chloride (66.18 ± 0.06 μg/g dry powder). This phenomenon was assessed by HPLC-DAD analyses after desorption of crocetin from the respective support and assessing its degradation along a period of 30 days. The method we established could represent a good mean to provide pure crocetin from saffron powder, preserving in the meantime its chemical properties for a concrete future exploitation for food pharmaceutical, and cosmetic purposes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Serena Fiorito
- Dipartimento di Farmacia, Università "G. d'Annunzio" Chieti - Pescara, Via dei Vestini 31, 66100 Chieti Scalo (CH), Italy
| | - Lucia Palumbo
- Dipartimento di Farmacia, Università "G. d'Annunzio" Chieti - Pescara, Via dei Vestini 31, 66100 Chieti Scalo (CH), Italy
| | - Francesco Epifano
- Dipartimento di Farmacia, Università "G. d'Annunzio" Chieti - Pescara, Via dei Vestini 31, 66100 Chieti Scalo (CH), Italy.
| | - Chiara Collevecchio
- Dipartimento di Farmacia, Università "G. d'Annunzio" Chieti - Pescara, Via dei Vestini 31, 66100 Chieti Scalo (CH), Italy
| | | | | | - Roberto Spogli
- Prolabin & Tefarm Srl, Via dell'Acciaio 9, 06134 Perugia, Italy
| | - Salvatore Genovese
- Dipartimento di Farmacia, Università "G. d'Annunzio" Chieti - Pescara, Via dei Vestini 31, 66100 Chieti Scalo (CH), Italy
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22
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Peng S, Wu Y, Wang Y. Crocetin suppresses uterine ischemia/reperfusion-induced inflammation and apoptosis through Nrf-2/HO-1 pathway. Curr Mol Med 2022; 23:527-535. [PMID: 35619323 DOI: 10.2174/1566524022666220520141943] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2021] [Revised: 04/06/2022] [Accepted: 04/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Uterine ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury often occurs during many complex surgical procedures, such as uterus transplantation, cesarean, and myomectomy, it may lead to the loss of uterine function and failure of operation. Crocetin (CRO), as one of the major active constituents from saffron extract, shows protective effects against reactive oxygen species, inflammation and apoptosis. However, the role of CRO in protecting uterus against I/R-induced injury has never been investigated. This study aims to clarify the protective role of CRO against I/R injury and the underlying mechanisms. MATERIALS AND METHODS Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly divided into five groups: the control group, I/R group, 20 mg/kg CRO-treated I/R group, 40 mg/kg CRO-treated I/Rgroup, and 80 mg/kg CRO-treated I/R group. Rats were given daily gavages with different doses of CRO or vehicle for five consecutive days. Rat uterine I/R model was created by routine method with 1h ischemia and 3h reperfusion. The serum and uterine tissues were collected, the changes in malondialdehyde (MDA) level and superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity, the mRNA and protein levels of interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-6, tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α and IL-10, the protein levels of B-cell chronic lymphocytic leukemia/lymphoma (Bcl)-2, Bcl-2-associated X protein (Bax), caspase-3, nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor (Nrf)-2 and heme oxygenase(HO)-1, were measured. The histological changes were examined by HE staining. The number of apoptotic cells was analyzed by flowcytometry. RESULTS Uterine I/R significantly induced MDA level, suppressed SOD activity, up-regulated levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines, down-regulated level of anti-inflammatory cytokine, induced caspase-3-dependent apoptosis, activated the protein expression of Nrf-2 and HO-1, and caused uterine damage. However, pre-administration of CRO effectively reversed I/R-induced above changes, and further enhanced Nrf-2/HO-1 activation on a dose-dependent manner. CONCLUSIONS Pre-administration of CRO effectively alleviates I/R-induced oxidative stress, inflammation, apoptosis, and tissue injury probably through activating Nrf-2/HO-1 pathway, suggesting a protective role of CRO in I/R-induced uterus injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shu Peng
- Reproductive Medicine, Maternal and Child Health Hospital of Hubei Province, No.745 Wuluo Road, Wuhan 430070, Hubei, China
| | - Yong Wu
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Jingzhou Hospital affiliated to Yangtze University, No.60 Jingzhong Road, Jingzhou 434020, Hubei, China
| | - Ying Wang
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Jingzhou Hospital affiliated to Yangtze University, No.60 Jingzhong Road, Jingzhou 434020, Hubei, China
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Ding Y, Ma L, He L, Xu Q, Zhang Z, Zhang Z, Zhang X, Fan R, Ma W, Sun Y, Zhang B, Li W, Zhai Y, Zhang J. A strategy for attenuation of acute radiation-induced lung injury using crocetin from gardenia fruit. Biomed Pharmacother 2022; 149:112899. [PMID: 35366531 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2022.112899] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2022] [Revised: 03/18/2022] [Accepted: 03/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Radiation-induced lung injury limits the implementation of radiotherapy plans and severely impairs the quality of life. Crocetin has the capability to protect against radiation. This study is aimed at estimate the preventive effect and mechanism of crocetin on acute radiation induced lung injury. METHODS AND MATERIALS In this study, we offer a strategy for radiation-induced lung injury by using crocetin, an extract of gardenia fruit. Histopathology, transcriptomics, flow cytometry, and other methods have served to examine the effect and mechanism of crocetin on acute radiation-induced lung injury. RESULTS Crocetin effectively alleviates radiation-induced alveolar wall thickening and alveolar destruction. The number of normal alveoli and lung structure of mice is well protected by the prevention of crocetin. It is found that crocetin inhibits necroptosis to achieve effective radioprotection by down regulating the Tnfrsf10b gene in vitro. CONCLUSION Crocetin inhibits necroptosis through transcriptional regulation of the Tnfrsf10b gene, thereby preventing radiation-induced lung injury. This work may provide a new strategy for the prevention of lung radiation injury by the extract from Chinese herbal medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Ding
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Nanyang First People's Hospital Affiliated to Henan University, Nanyang 473000, China
| | - Lei Ma
- Cancer Center, Nanyang First People's Hospital Affiliated to Henan University, Nanyang 473000, China
| | - Limin He
- Cancer Center, Nanyang First People's Hospital Affiliated to Henan University, Nanyang 473000, China
| | - Quanxiao Xu
- Cancer Center, Nanyang First People's Hospital Affiliated to Henan University, Nanyang 473000, China
| | - Zhuang Zhang
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Xinjiang Medical University, Urumqi 830000, China
| | - Zhen Zhang
- Second Ward, Department of Oncology, Nanyang First People's Hospital Affiliated to Henan University, Nanyang 473000, China
| | - Xinping Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nanyang First People's Hospital Affiliated to Henan University, Nanyang 473000, China
| | - Rui Fan
- Department of Pathology, Nanyang First People's Hospital Affiliated to Henan University, Nanyang 473000, China
| | - Wenjun Ma
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Nanyang First People's Hospital Affiliated to Henan University, Nanyang 473000, China
| | - Ya'nan Sun
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Nanyang First People's Hospital Affiliated to Henan University, Nanyang 473000, China
| | - Baile Zhang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Nanyang First People's Hospital Affiliated to Henan University, Nanyang 473000, China
| | - Wentai Li
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Nanyang First People's Hospital Affiliated to Henan University, Nanyang 473000, China
| | - Yao Zhai
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Nanyang First People's Hospital Affiliated to Henan University, Nanyang 473000, China
| | - Jiandong Zhang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Nanyang First People's Hospital Affiliated to Henan University, Nanyang 473000, China.
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Xu Z, Lin S, Tong Z, Chen S, Cao Y, Li Q, Jiang Y, Cai W, Tong Y, Zahra BS, Wang P. Crocetin ameliorates non-alcoholic fatty liver disease by modulating mitochondrial dysfunction in L02 cells and zebrafish model. J Ethnopharmacol 2022; 285:114873. [PMID: 34848360 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2021.114873] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2021] [Revised: 11/23/2021] [Accepted: 11/24/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Traditional Chinese medicine considers that the etiology and pathogenesis of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) are related to liver depression and qi stagnation. Saffron and its active ingredient, crocetin (CCT), are used for the treatment of metabolic diseases owing to their "Liver deobstruent" and "Liver tonic" effects. However, the effect of CCT on NAFLD has not been fully elucidated. In the present study, the effect and potential molecular mechanism of CCT were explored in both in vivo and in vitro models of NAFLD. MATERIALS AND METHODS CCT was isolated from saffron and purity and structure characterization were performed using HPLC, MS, 1H-NMR, and 13C-NMR. The effect of CCT on the viability of L02 cells and its maximum tolerable concentration (MTC) in zebrafish were investigated. Free fatty acids (FFA) and thioacetamide (TAA) were used to induce lipid accumulation in L02 cells and steatosis in zebrafish, respectively. The effects of CCT on indexes related to lipid metabolism, oxidative stress, and mitochondrial function in NAFLD models were explored using biochemical assay kits, Western blot analysis, Reverse Transcription-Polymerase Chain Reaction (RT-PCR), histopathology analysis, and determination of mitochondrial membrane potential (ΔΨm). Morphological analysis of mitochondria was performed using transmission electron microscopy (TEM). RESULTS The levels of triglyceride (TG), total cholesterol (TC), malondialdehyde (MDA), and alanine/aspartate aminotransferases (ALT/AST) activities in FFA treated L02 cells were significantly reduced after CCT treatment. CCT treatment significantly increased ATP concentration, ΔΨm, and activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), and cytochrome c oxidase (COX IV) in FFA treated L02 cells. TEM images showed restoration of mitochondrial morphology. CCT decreased ATP concentration and upregulated expression of B-cell lymphoma-2 (Bcl-2) and COX IV, whereas, CCT downregulated expression of BCL2-Associated X (Bax) and cleaved caspase-3 in TAA treated zebrafish. These findings indicated that mitochondrial dysfunction was alleviated after CCT treatment. Oil Red O staining of L02 cells and zebrafish showed that CCT treatment reversed the accumulation of lipid droplets. CONCLUSION In summary, CCT treatment effectively alleviated the symptoms of NAFLD and restored mitochondrial function in L02 cells and zebrafish NAFLD model.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zijin Xu
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou, 310014, People's Republic of China
| | - Susu Lin
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou, 310014, People's Republic of China
| | - Zheren Tong
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou, 310014, People's Republic of China
| | - Suhong Chen
- Collaborative Innovation Center of Yangtze River Delta Region Green Pharmaceuticals, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310014, People's Republic of China
| | - Yifeng Cao
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou, 310014, People's Republic of China
| | - Qiaoqiao Li
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou, 310014, People's Republic of China
| | - Yuli Jiang
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou, 310014, People's Republic of China
| | - Weijie Cai
- Collaborative Innovation Center of Yangtze River Delta Region Green Pharmaceuticals, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310014, People's Republic of China
| | - Yingpeng Tong
- School of Life Sciences, Taizhou University, Taizhou, 318000, People's Republic of China
| | - Bathaie S Zahra
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, P.O. Box. 14115-133, Tehran, Islamic Republic of Iran
| | - Ping Wang
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou, 310014, People's Republic of China.
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Zang M, Hou J, Huang Y, Wang J, Ding X, Zhang B, Wang Y, Xuan Y, Zhou Y. Crocetin suppresses angiogenesis and metastasis through inhibiting sonic hedgehog signaling pathway in gastric cancer. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2021; 576:86-92. [PMID: 34482028 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2021.08.092] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2021] [Revised: 08/25/2021] [Accepted: 08/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Gastric cancer (GC) is one of the major causes of cancer-related deaths and chemoresistance is a key obstacle to the treatment of GC, particularly in advanced GC. As an active component of saffron stigma, crocetin has important therapeutic effects on various diseases including tumors. However, the therapeutic potential of crocetin targeting GC is still unclear and the underlying mechanisms are remained to be further explored. In this study, crocetin significantly inhibited angiogenesis in GC, including tubes of HUVECs and vasculogenic mimicry (VM) formation of GC cells. Crocetin also suppressed cell proliferation, migration and invasion. To explore which signaling pathway involving in crocetin, HIF-1α, Notch1, Sonic hedgehog (SHH) and VEGF were examined with crocetin treatment and we found that SHH significantly decreased. Crocetin suppressed SHH signaling with SHH, PTCH2, Sufu and Gli1 protein level decreased in western blot assay. In addition, crocetin suppressed SHH secretion in GC and HUVEC cells. The promoted effects on cell migration induced by secreted SHH were also inhibited by crocetin in GC and HUVEC cell co-culture system. Furthermore, recombinant SHH promoted angiogenesis as well as cell migration and proliferation. However, these promoted effects were reversed by crocetin treatment. These results revealed that crocetin suppressed GC angiogenesis and metastasis through SHH signaling pathway, indicating that crocetin may function as an effective therapeutic drug against GC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mingde Zang
- Department of Gastric Cancer Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, PR China
| | - Junyi Hou
- Department of Surgery, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Gastric Neoplasms, Shanghai Institute of Digestive Surgery, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, 200025, Shanghai, PR China
| | - Yakai Huang
- Department of Gastric Cancer Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, PR China
| | - Jiangli Wang
- Department of Gastric Cancer Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, PR China
| | - Xusheng Ding
- Department of Surgery, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Gastric Neoplasms, Shanghai Institute of Digestive Surgery, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, 200025, Shanghai, PR China
| | - Baogui Zhang
- Affiliated Hospital of Jining Medical University, No. 89 Guhuai Road, Rencheng District, Jining City, 272000, PR China
| | - Yanong Wang
- Department of Gastric Cancer Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, PR China
| | - Yi Xuan
- Department of Gastric Cancer Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, PR China.
| | - Ye Zhou
- Department of Gastric Cancer Surgery, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai, PR China.
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Inoue E, Suzuki T, Shimizu Y, Sudo K, Kawasaki H, Ishida N. Saffron ameliorated motor symptoms, short life span and retinal degeneration in Parkinson's disease fly models. Gene 2021; 799:145811. [PMID: 34224829 DOI: 10.1016/j.gene.2021.145811] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2021] [Revised: 06/17/2021] [Accepted: 06/30/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Parkinson's disease (PD) is a common neurodegenerative disorder with motor symptoms linked to the loss of dopaminergic neurons in the brain. α-Synuclein is an aggregation-prone neural protein that plays a role in the pathogenesis of PD. In our previous paper, we found that saffron; the stigma of Crocus sativus Linné (Iridaceae), and its constituents (crocin and crocetin) suppressed aggregation of α-synuclein and promoted the dissociation of α-synuclein fibrils in vitro. In this study, we investigated the effect of dietary saffron and its constituent, crocetin, in vivo on a fly PD model overexpressing several mutant α-synuclein in a tissue-specific manner. Saffron and crocetin significantly suppressed the decrease of climbing ability in the Drosophila overexpressing A30P (A30P fly PD model) or G51D (G51D fly PD model) mutated α-synuclein in neurons. Saffron and crocetin extended the life span in the G51D fly PD model. Saffron suppressed the rough-eyed phenotype and the dispersion of the size histogram of the ocular long axis in the eye of A30P fly PD model. Saffron had a cytoprotective effect on a human neuronal cell line with α-synuclein fibrils. These data showed that saffron and its constituent crocetin have protective effects on the progression of PD disease in animals in vivo and suggest that saffron and crocetin can be used to treat PD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eiji Inoue
- Tokyo Research Center, Kyushin Pharmaceutical Co, Ltd., Suginami 166-0012, Tokyo, Japan; Institute for Chronobiology, Foundation for Advancement of International Science (FAIS), Tsukuba, 305-0821 Ibaraki, Japan.
| | - Takahiro Suzuki
- Institute for Chronobiology, Foundation for Advancement of International Science (FAIS), Tsukuba, 305-0821 Ibaraki, Japan.
| | - Yasuharu Shimizu
- Tokyo Research Center, Kyushin Pharmaceutical Co, Ltd., Suginami 166-0012, Tokyo, Japan.
| | - Keiichi Sudo
- Tokyo Research Center, Kyushin Pharmaceutical Co, Ltd., Suginami 166-0012, Tokyo, Japan.
| | - Haruhisa Kawasaki
- Institute for Chronobiology, Foundation for Advancement of International Science (FAIS), Tsukuba, 305-0821 Ibaraki, Japan.
| | - Norio Ishida
- Institute for Chronobiology, Foundation for Advancement of International Science (FAIS), Tsukuba, 305-0821 Ibaraki, Japan.
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Arjmand MH, Hashemzehi M, Soleimani A, Asgharzadeh F, Avan A, Mehraban S, Fakhraei M, Ferns GA, Ryzhikov M, Gharib M, Salari R, Sayyed Hoseinian SH, Parizadeh MR, Khazaei M, Hassanian SM. Therapeutic potential of active components of saffron in post-surgical adhesion band formation. J Tradit Complement Med 2021; 11:328-335. [PMID: 34195027 PMCID: PMC8240116 DOI: 10.1016/j.jtcme.2021.01.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2020] [Revised: 10/26/2020] [Accepted: 01/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Abdominal adhesions are common and often develop after abdominal surgery. There are currently no useful targeted pharmacotherapies for adhesive disease. Saffron and its active constituents, Crocin and Crocetin, are wildly used in traditional medicine for alleviating the severity of inflammatory or malignant disease. PURPOSE The aim of this study was to investigate the therapeutic potential of the pharmacological active component of saffron in attenuating the formation of post-operative adhesion bands using different administration methods in a murine model. MATERIAL METHOD saffron extract (100 mg/kg), Crocin (100 mg/kg), and Crocetin (100 mg/kg) were administered intraperitoneally and by gavage in various groups of male Wistar rat post-surgery. Also three groups were first treated intra-peritoneally by saffron extract, Crocin, and Crocetin (100 mg/kg) for 10 days and then had surgery. At the end of the experiments, animals sacrificed for biological assessment. RESULT A hydro-alcoholic extract of saffron and crocin but not crocetin potently reduced the adhesion band frequency in treatment and pre-treatment groups in the mice given intra-peritoneal (i.p) injections. Following the saffron or crocin administration, histological evaluation and quantitative analysis represented less inflammatory cell infiltration and less collagen composition, compared to control group. Moreover, the oxidative stress was significantly reduced in treatment groups. CONCLUSION These findings suggest that a hydro-alcoholic extract of saffron or its active compound, crocin, is a potentially novel therapeutic strategy for the prevention of adhesions formation and might be used as beneficial anti-inflammatory or anti-fibrosis agents in clinical trials. TAXONOMY Abdominal surgeries/post-surgical adhesions.
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Key Words
- APC, activated protein C
- Crocetin
- Crocin
- DSS, dextran sodium sulfate
- Fibrosis
- HE, Hematoxylin & Eosin
- IP, intera-peritoneal
- Inflammation
- MDA, malondialdehyde
- PDGF, platelet-derived growth factor
- PSAB, post-surgical adhesion band
- Post-surgical adhesion band formation
- SOD, superoxidase dismutase
- Saffron
- TAA, thioacetamide
- TGF-β, transforming growth factor-beta
- α-SMA, α-smooth muscle actin
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad-Hassan Arjmand
- Medical Plants Research Center, Basic Health Sciences Institute, Shahrekord University of Medical Sciences, Shahrekord, Iran
| | | | - Atena Soleimani
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Fereshteh Asgharzadeh
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Amir Avan
- Metabolic Syndrome Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
- Student Research Committee and Department of Medical Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Science, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Saeedeh Mehraban
- Immunology Research Center, Inflammation and Inflammatory Diseases Division, School of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Maryam Fakhraei
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Gordon A. Ferns
- Brighton & Sussex Medical School, Division of Medical Education, Falmer, Brighton, BN1 9PH, UK
| | - Mikhail Ryzhikov
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Washington University, School of Medicine, Saint Louis, MO, USA
| | - Masoumeh Gharib
- Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Roshanak Salari
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences in Persian Medicine, School of Persian and Complementary Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | | | - Mohammad Reza Parizadeh
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Majid Khazaei
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
- Metabolic Syndrome Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Seyed Mahdi Hassanian
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
- Metabolic Syndrome Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
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Song YN, Wang Y, Zheng YH, Liu TL, Zhang C. Crocins: A comprehensive review of structural characteristics, pharmacokinetics and therapeutic effects. Fitoterapia 2021; 153:104969. [PMID: 34147548 DOI: 10.1016/j.fitote.2021.104969] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2021] [Revised: 05/10/2021] [Accepted: 05/29/2021] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
Crocins, as a kind of water-soluble carotenoid pigment, are a series of ester compounds formed from crocetin and gentibiose or glucose, and mainly distributed among Crocus sativus L. (CSL), Gardenia jasminoides Ellis. (GJE). Crocins exhibit a wide range of pharmacological effects on neurodegeneration, cardiovascular disease, cerebrovascular disease, depression, liver disease, arthritis, tumor, diabetes, etc. This review systematically discussed the pharmacologic study of crocins in the aspect of structural characteristic and pharmacokinetics, and summarized the mechanism of treating disease. It summarized the abundant research of crocins from 1984 to 2020 based on the above aspects, which provide a reference for the deeply development and application of crocins.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ya-Nan Song
- Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing 100700, China; Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Taian 271016, China
| | - Yun Wang
- Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing 100700, China
| | - Ying-Hao Zheng
- Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing 100700, China
| | | | - Cun Zhang
- Institute of Chinese Materia Medica, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, Beijing 100700, China.
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Sepahi S, Soheili ZS, Tavakkol-Afshari J, Mehri S, Hosseini SM, Mohajeri SA, Khodaverdi E. Retinoprotective Effects of Crocin and Crocetin via Anti-angiogenic Mechanism in High Glucose-Induced Human Retinal Pigment Epithelium Cells. Curr Mol Pharmacol 2021; 14:883-893. [PMID: 33881975 DOI: 10.2174/1874467214666210420111232] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2020] [Revised: 01/18/2021] [Accepted: 02/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Diabetic retinopathy (DR) is one of the most common side effects of diabetes. We aimed to investigate the effects of crocin and crocetin (as a deglycosylated form of crocin in blood stream) in gene expression or protein levels of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), vascular endothelial growth factor-receptor1 (VEGFR-1), matrix metalloproteinases2 (MMP-2), matrix metalloproteinases9 (MMP-9) and thrombospondin-2 (TSP-2) in high glucose cell culture media. METHODS The retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) cells were exposed to high glucose (HG, 30 mM glucose concentration) and normal glucose (NG, 24.5 mM mannitol + 5.5 mM glucose) for six days. RPE cells were treated in four treatment groups (crocin, crocetin, Bevacizumab, and crocin + Bevacizumab). Gene expressions were measured using quantitative real-time PCR, and proteins level was evaluated by western blot. RESULTS Findings showed that VEGF gene expression and protein level significantly decreased in all treatment groups. In addition, reduction in VEGFR1 gene expression was significantly higher in Bevacizumab and crocin + Bevacizumab groups than other groups. Only, crocin and crocetin could reduce the gene levels of MMP-2 and MMP-9. In addition, TSP-2 protein levels increased when HG cells were exposed crocin or crocin + Bevacizumab groups. CONCLUSION Our data showed that crocin and crocetin have anti-VEGF function similar to Bevacizumab, act as an anti-angiogenic agent. Also, crocin and crocetin could decrease MMP-2 and MMP-9 gene levels, as inflammatory and angiogenesis factors. As a result, crocin and crocetin have protective effects against angiogenesis and inflammation in DR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samaneh Sepahi
- Targeted Drug Delivery Research Center, Pharmaceutical Technology Institute, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Zahra-Soheila Soheili
- National Institute of Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, 14965/161, Tehran, Iran
| | | | - Soghra Mehri
- Department of Pharmacodynamics and Toxicology, School of Pharmacy, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | | | - Seyed Ahmad Mohajeri
- Targeted Drug Delivery Research Center, Pharmaceutical Technology Institute, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Elham Khodaverdi
- Targeted Drug Delivery Research Center, Pharmaceutical Technology Institute, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
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Shah HM, Jain AS, Joshi SV, Kharkar PS. Crocetin and related oxygen diffusion-enhancing compounds: Review of chemical synthesis, pharmacology, clinical development, and novel therapeutic applications. Drug Dev Res 2021; 82:883-895. [PMID: 33817811 PMCID: PMC8273373 DOI: 10.1002/ddr.21814] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2020] [Revised: 02/17/2021] [Accepted: 03/02/2021] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
The current pandemic forced us to introspect and revisit our armamentarium of medicinal agents which could be life‐saving in emergency situations. Oxygen diffusion‐enhancing compounds represent one such class of potential therapeutic agents, particularly in ischemic conditions. As rewarding as the name suggests, these agents, represented by the most advanced and first‐in‐class molecule, trans‐sodium crocetinate (TSC), are the subject of intense clinical investigation, including Phase 1b/2b clinical trials for COVID‐19. Being a successor of a natural product, crocetin, TSC is being investigated for various cancers as a radiosensitizer owing to its oxygen diffusion enhancement capability. The unique properties of TSC make it a promising therapeutic agent for various ailments such as hemorrhagic shock, stroke, heart attack, among others. The present review outlines various (bio)synthetic strategies, pharmacological aspects, clinical overview and potential therapeutic benefits of crocetin and related compounds including TSC. The recent literature focusing on the delivery aspects of these compounds is covered as well to paint the complete picture to the curious reader. Given the potential TSC holds as a first‐in‐class agent, small‐ and/or macromolecular therapeutics based on the core concept of improved oxygen diffusion from blood to the surrounding tissues where it is needed the most, will be developed in future and satisfy the unmet medical need for many diseases and disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hriday M Shah
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technology, Institute of Chemical Technology, Mumbai, India
| | - Ashvi S Jain
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technology, Institute of Chemical Technology, Mumbai, India
| | - Shreerang V Joshi
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technology, Institute of Chemical Technology, Mumbai, India
| | - Prashant S Kharkar
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technology, Institute of Chemical Technology, Mumbai, India
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Lin S, Li Q, Jiang S, Xu Z, Jiang Y, Liu L, Jiang J, Tong Y, Wang P. Crocetin ameliorates chronic restraint stress-induced depression-like behaviors in mice by regulating MEK/ERK pathways and gut microbiota. J Ethnopharmacol 2021; 268:113608. [PMID: 33242618 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2020.113608] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2020] [Revised: 11/15/2020] [Accepted: 11/19/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE This study aimed at determining the effects of saffron on depression as well as its neuroprotective and pharmacological effects on the intestinal function of crocetin in mice exposed to chronic restraint stress. MATERIALS AND METHODS Chronic stress was induced in two-week-old ICR mice by immobilizing them for 6 h per day for 28 days. The mice were orally administered with crocetin (20, 40, 80 mg/kg), fluoxetine (20 mg/kg) or distilled water. The treatments were administered daily and open field and tail suspension tests were performed. Immunofluorescent and Western-bolt (WB) assays were conducted to determine the expression of mitogen-activated protein kinase phosphatase-1 (MKP-1), the precursor of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (proBDNF), extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1/2 (ERK1/2), phosphorylated cAMP response element-binding (CREB) protein in the hippocampus. Serum levels of dopamine (DA), proBDNF, MKP-1 and CREB were measured by Elisa kits. High-throughput sequencing was carried out to analyze the composition of intestinal microbiota. RESULTS Crocetin ameliorated depressive-like behaviors caused by chronic restraint stress-induced depressive mice. It significantly attenuated the elevated levels of MKP-1, proBDNF, alanine transaminase, aspartate transaminase and increased the serum levels of DA as well as CREB. Histopathological analysis showed that crocetin suppressed hippocampus injury in restraint stress mice by protecting neuronal cells. Immunofluorescent and WB analysis showed elevated expression levels of ERK1/2, CREB and inhibited expression levels of MKP-1, proBDNF in the hippocampus. The intestinal ecosystem of the crocetin group partially recovered and was close to the control group. CONCLUSIONS Crocetin has neuroprotective properties and ameliorates the effects of stress-associated brain damage by regulating the MKP-1-ERK1/2-CREB signaling and intestinal ecosystem.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susu Lin
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou, 310014, People's Republic of China
| | - Qiaoqiao Li
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou, 310014, People's Republic of China
| | - Shanshan Jiang
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou, 310014, People's Republic of China
| | - Zijin Xu
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou, 310014, People's Republic of China
| | - Yu Jiang
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou, 310014, People's Republic of China
| | - Ling Liu
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou, 310014, People's Republic of China
| | - Jinyan Jiang
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou, 310014, People's Republic of China
| | - Yingpeng Tong
- Institute of Natural Medicine and Health Products, School of Advanced Study, Taizhou University, Taizhou, 318000, People's Republic of China
| | - Ping Wang
- College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou, 310014, People's Republic of China.
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Kordzadeh A, Ramazani Saadatabadi A, Hadi A. Investigation on penetration of saffron components through lipid bilayer bound to spike protein of SARS-CoV-2 using steered molecular dynamics simulation. Heliyon 2020; 6:e05681. [PMID: 33344790 PMCID: PMC7733551 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2020.e05681] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2020] [Revised: 11/19/2020] [Accepted: 12/03/2020] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
A coronavirus identified as COVID-19 is the reason for an infection outbreak which is started in December 2019. NO completely effective drugs and treatments are not recognized for this virus. Recently, saffron and its compounds were used to treat different viral diseases. Saffron extract and its major ingredients have shown antiviral effects. In this study, the steered molecular dynamics simulation was used for investigating the effect of four main components of saffron that include: crocin, crocetin, safranal, and picrocrocin as candidate for drug molecules, on COVID-19. The binding energies between drug molecules and spike protein and the main protease of the virus were evaluated. The obtained results based on Lennard-Jones and electrostatic potentials demonstrated that crocetin has a high affinity towards spike protein and also the main protease of the virus. Also, the quantum mechanics calculations elucidated that the crocetin could overcome energy barrier of lipid bilayer with strong dipole moment and polarizability. The pharmacokinetic and ADMET properties proved that crocetin could be a suitable drug candidate. So, crocetin could be a promising drug for treatment of COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Azadeh Kordzadeh
- Chemial and Petroleum Egineering Department, Sharif University of Technology, Tehran, Iran
| | | | - Amin Hadi
- Cellular and Molecular Research Center, School of Medicine, Yasuj University of Medical Sciences, Yasuj, Iran
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Khajeh E, Rasmi Y, Kheradmand F, Malekinejad H, Aramwit P, Saboory E, Daeihassani B, Nasirzadeh M. Crocetin suppresses the growth and migration in HCT-116 human colorectal cancer cells by activating the p-38 MAPK signaling pathway. Res Pharm Sci 2020; 15:592-601. [PMID: 33828602 PMCID: PMC8020854 DOI: 10.4103/1735-5362.301344] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2019] [Revised: 05/09/2020] [Accepted: 11/14/2020] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
Background and purpose: Crocetin is a natural antioxidant that is found in the crocus flower and Gardenia jasminoides (fruit). Previous studies have reported its anticancer activity both in vivo and in vitro. In addition, crocetin suppresses the growth and migration of human colorectal cancer cells, however, its mechanism of action remains to be elucidated. Therefore, the present study investigated the molecular mechanism of crocetin effect on colorectal cancer cells (HCT-116) in vitro. Experimental approach: HCT-116 cells were treated with different concentrations (0, 200, 400, 600, and 800 μM) of crocetin for 24 h. The cell survival rate was measured by MTT assay. Cell migration capacity was evaluated using the wound healing assay. The expression levels of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and matrix metalloproteinase (MMP-9) was monitored by RT-PCR. Phosphorylation of focal adhesion kinase (FAK) and p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) was determined using western blot. Findings/Results: The proliferation of HCT-116 was inhibited by crocetin at 800 μM (P < 0.001). Crocetin prevented migration of HCT-116 cells (P < 0.05) and suppressed VEGF and MMP-9 mRNA expression (P < 0.001) and increased phosphorylation of p38 (MAPK; P < 0.001). However, no significant change in the phosphorylation of FAK was observed. Conclusion and implication: These data suggested that crocetin-induced growth- and migration- suppressing effects on HCT-116 cells may partially depend on the regulation of the p38 (MAPK) signaling pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Esmaeil Khajeh
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, I.R. Iran
| | - Yousef Rasmi
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, I.R. Iran.,Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, I.R. Iran
| | - Fatemeh Kheradmand
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, I.R. Iran
| | - Hassan Malekinejad
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, I.R. Iran
| | - Pornanong Aramwit
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Center of Excellence in Bioactive Resources for Innovative Clinical Applications, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, 10330 Thailand
| | - Ehsan Saboory
- Zanjan Metabolic Diseases Research Center, Zanjan University of Medical Sciences, Zanjan, I.R. Iran
| | | | - Mahdieh Nasirzadeh
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, I.R. Iran
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Liu T, Yu S, Xu Z, Tan J, Wang B, Liu YG, Zhu Q. Prospects and progress on crocin biosynthetic pathway and metabolic engineering. Comput Struct Biotechnol J 2020; 18:3278-3286. [PMID: 33209212 PMCID: PMC7653203 DOI: 10.1016/j.csbj.2020.10.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2020] [Revised: 10/15/2020] [Accepted: 10/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Crocins are a group of highly valuable apocarotenoid-derived pigments mainly produced in Crocus sativus stigmas and Gardenia jasminoides fruits, which display great pharmacological activities for human health, such as anticancer, reducing the risk of atherosclerosis, and preventing Alzheimer's disease. However, traditional sources of crocins are no longer sufficient to meet current demands. The recent clarification of the crocin biosynthetic pathway opens up the possibility of large-scale production of crocins by synthetic metabolic engineering methods. In this review, we mainly introduce the crocin biosynthetic pathway, subcellular route, related key enzymes, and its synthetic metabolic engineering, as well as its challenges and prospects, with a view to providing useful references for further studies on the synthetic metabolic engineering of crocins.
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Affiliation(s)
- Taoli Liu
- State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-Bioresources, College of Life Sciences, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
- Guangdong Laboratory for Lingnan Modern Agriculture, Guangzhou 510642, China
| | - Suize Yu
- State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-Bioresources, College of Life Sciences, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
- Guangdong Laboratory for Lingnan Modern Agriculture, Guangzhou 510642, China
| | - Zhichao Xu
- Institute of Medicinal Plant Development, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Jiantao Tan
- State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-Bioresources, College of Life Sciences, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
- Guangdong Laboratory for Lingnan Modern Agriculture, Guangzhou 510642, China
| | - Bin Wang
- State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-Bioresources, College of Life Sciences, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
- Guangdong Laboratory for Lingnan Modern Agriculture, Guangzhou 510642, China
| | - Yao-Guang Liu
- State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-Bioresources, College of Life Sciences, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
- Guangdong Laboratory for Lingnan Modern Agriculture, Guangzhou 510642, China
| | - Qinlong Zhu
- State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-Bioresources, College of Life Sciences, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
- Guangdong Laboratory for Lingnan Modern Agriculture, Guangzhou 510642, China
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Erfanparast A, Tamaddonfard E, Henareh-Chareh F. Central H 2 histaminergic and alpha-2 adrenergic receptors involvement in crocetin-induced antinociception in orofacial formalin pain in rats. Vet Res Forum 2020; 11:229-234. [PMID: 33133459 PMCID: PMC7597797 DOI: 10.30466/vrf.2018.83779.2101] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2018] [Accepted: 07/24/2018] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Previous findings have shown that saffron (Crocus sativus L.) extract and its active constituents produce antinociceptive effects in the rat models of orofacial pain. In the present study, the central H2 histaminergic and alpha-2 adrenergic receptors involvement in crocetin-induced antinociception in orofacial formalin pain in rats was evaluated. The guide cannula was implanted into the fourth ventricle in ketamine-xylazine anesthetized rats. Subcutaneous injection of a diluted formalin solution (1.50%; 50.00 µL) into a vibrissae pad was used as a model of orofacial pain. Face rubbing behavior durations were recorded at 3 min blocks for 45 min. Formalin produced a biphasic pain response (first phase: 0-3 min and second phase: 15-33 min). Intra-fourth ventricle injections of crocetin (5.00 and 10.00 μg μL-1) suppressed, whereas yohimbine (10.00 μg μL-1) and naloxone (10.00 μg μL-1) increased the intensity of both phases of pain. Crocetin-induced antinociception was not prevented by central pretreatment with naloxone. However, the antinociceptive effect of crocetin (5.00 μg μL-1) was inhibited by prior administration of famotidine (10.00 μg μL-1) and yohimbine (10.00 μg μL-1). Our study showed that injection of crocetin into the cerebral fourth ventricle attenuated formalin-induced orofacial pain in rats. Central H2 histaminergic and alpha-2 adrenergic receptors, but not opioid receptors, might be involved in crocetin-induced antinociception.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amir Erfanparast
- Department of Basic Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Urmia University, Urmia, Iran;
| | - Esmaeal Tamaddonfard
- Department of Basic Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Urmia University, Urmia, Iran;
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Liu P, Xue Y, Zheng B, Liang Y, Zhang J, Shi J, Chu X, Han X, Chu L. Crocetin attenuates the oxidative stress, inflammation and apoptosisin arsenic trioxide-induced nephrotoxic rats: Implication of PI3K/AKT pathway. Int Immunopharmacol 2020; 88:106959. [PMID: 32919218 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2020.106959] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2020] [Revised: 08/13/2020] [Accepted: 08/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Arsenic trioxide (ATO)-induced renal toxicity through oxidative stress and apoptosis restricts the therapeutic action of acute myelogenous leukemia. Crocetin (Crt) possesses antioxidant and antiapoptosis properties, and has certain renal protective effects, but it has not been reported that it has protective effect on renal injury caused by ATO. The current study explored the effects and mechanisms of Crt on kidney damage induced by ATO. Fifty Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly divided into five groups. Adult rats were given Crt concurrently with ATO for 1 week. On the 8th day, rats were killed and blood and kidney tissues were collected. Histopathological changes were measured, and kidneytissues and serum were used to determine renal function and antioxidant enzyme activity. In addition, the protein expression levels of P-PI3K, PI3K, P-AKT, AKT, CytC, Bax, Bcl-2 and Caspase-3 were determined via western blot analysis. Results revealed ATO induced renal morphological alterations and activated serum BUN and CRE. Compared with the control group, ROS, MDA, IL-1β, TNF-α, protein carbonyls (PC), lipid hydroperoxides (LOOH) and arsenic concentration levels were found to be significantly increased and SOD, CAT, GSH-Px, GSH and total sulphydryl groups (TSH) levels were attenuated in the ATO group. Crt markedly reduced oxidative stress in ATO-induced nephrotoxicity. Further, ATO induced apoptosis by significantly enhancing CytC, Bax and Caspase-3 and inhibiting Bcl-2. Administration with Crt markedly improved the expression of apoptosis factor. Moreover, Crt treatment stimulated the expressions of P-PI3K, PI3K, P-AKT, AKT induced by ATO. This study indicates Crt could prevent renal injury caused by ATO through inhibiting oxidative stress, inflammation and apoptosis, and its mechanism may be related to activation of PI3K/Akt signaling pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Panpan Liu
- School of Pharmacy, Hebei University of Chinese Medicine, Shijiazhuang 050200, Hebei, China
| | - Yurun Xue
- School of Pharmacy, Hebei University of Chinese Medicine, Shijiazhuang 050200, Hebei, China
| | - Bin Zheng
- School of Pharmacy, Hebei University of Chinese Medicine, Shijiazhuang 050200, Hebei, China
| | - Yingran Liang
- School of Pharmacy, Hebei University of Chinese Medicine, Shijiazhuang 050200, Hebei, China
| | - Jianping Zhang
- School of Basic Medicine, Hebei University of Chinese Medicine, Shijiazhuang 050200, Hebei, China
| | - Jing Shi
- The Fourth Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang 050011, Hebei, China
| | - Xi Chu
- The Fourth Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang 050011, Hebei, China.
| | - Xue Han
- School of Pharmacy, Hebei University of Chinese Medicine, Shijiazhuang 050200, Hebei, China.
| | - Li Chu
- School of Pharmacy, Hebei University of Chinese Medicine, Shijiazhuang 050200, Hebei, China.
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Hashemi SA, Karami M, Bathaie SZ. Saffron carotenoids change the superoxide dismutase activity in breast cancer: In vitro, in vivo and in silico studies. Int J Biol Macromol 2020; 158:845-853. [PMID: 32360463 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2020.04.063] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2020] [Revised: 02/27/2020] [Accepted: 04/07/2020] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
Superoxide dismutase (SOD) is an important member of the antioxidant defense system and is proposed as a therapeutic agent against the ROS-mediated diseases, and a therapeutic target for cancer treatment. Saffron carotenoids, crocin (Cro) and crocetin (Crt), are antioxidants with anticancer activity. In the present study, we investigated the effects of Cro/Crt on the SOD activity in both in vivo and in vitro models of breast cancer. Both Cro and Crt showed strong radical scavenging activity and SOD inhibition in the MCF-7 breast cancer cell line. The UVVis, circular dichroism and fluorometry studies proposed the binding of both Cro and Crt with SOD; the ΔG° of binding at 310 °K was -8.6 and -4.4 kcal/mol, respectively. The docking analysis predicted the Cro/Crt binding near the active site channel, but in different sites. According to the obtained data, Cro inhibits SOD activity by scavenging superoxide radical (O2), while Crt inhibits SOD by affecting the copper-binding site. In contrast to the in vitro data, both Cro and Crt effectively increased SOD activity in breast tumors of BALB/c mice, after one month of treatment. The mechanism that is important to compensate for the SOD decreased activity in cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Ali Hashemi
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Medicine, AJA University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Masoumeh Karami
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Medicine, AJA University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - S Zahra Bathaie
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran.
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Yang X. Design and optimization of crocetin loaded PLGA nanoparticles against diabetic nephropathy via suppression of inflammatory biomarkers: a formulation approach to preclinical study. Drug Deliv 2020; 26:849-859. [PMID: 31524015 PMCID: PMC6761602 DOI: 10.1080/10717544.2019.1642417] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Diabetic nephropathy (DN) is a serious complication of diabetes mellitus whose expand
process is linked with the fibrosis, renal hypertrophy and inflammation. The current study
was to formulate and optimize the nano-formulation of crocetin (CT-PLGA-NPs) against
Streptozotocin-induced renal nephropathy in rats. Double emulsion evaporation technique
was used for the preparation of CT-PLGA-NPs. CT-PLGA-NPs were scrutinized for
polydispersity index, size, gastric stability, entrapment, drug-loading capacity and
in-vitro drug release and in vivo preclinical study.
Single intraperitoneal injection of streptozotocin (STZ) (55 mg/kg) and rats were divided
into different group. Renal function and metabolic parameters of urine and serum were
estimated. Fibrotic protein, renal pro-inflammatory cytokines and degree of renal damage
expression were also determined. We also estimated the fibronectin, type IV collagen and
transforming growth factor-β1 for a possible mechanism of action. Crocetin supplement
(10 mg/kg) and CT-PLGA-NPs exhibited the accumulation of the drug in kidney and liver of
diabetic rats. Crocetin reduced the BGL and enhanced plasma insulin and body weight. Dose
dependent treatment of crocetin significantly (p < .001)
down-regulated the expression of renal tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interleukin-6
(IL-6), interleukin (IL)-1β (IL-1β) and Monocyte Chemoattractant Protein-1 (MCP-1).
Crocetin significantly (p < .001) altered the expression of
fibronectin, type IV collagen, and transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-1β). Crocetin
significantly (p < .001) down-regulated the protein kinase C activity
and the expression of nuclear factor κB (NF-κB) p65 activity and protein production in
renal tissue. On the basis of the available result, we can conclude that nano-formulation
of crocetin could attenuate the diabetic nephropathy via antifibrotic and
anti-inflammatory effect.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaodong Yang
- Department of General Medicine, Zhumadian Central Hospital , Zhumadian , China
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Arzi L, Hoshyar R, Jafarzadeh N, Riazi G, Sadeghizadeh M. Anti-metastatic properties of a potent herbal combination in cell and mice models of triple negative breast cancer. Life Sci 2020; 243:117245. [PMID: 31926253 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2019.117245] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2019] [Revised: 12/23/2019] [Accepted: 12/28/2019] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
AIM To determine the anti-metastatic potential of combinations of two bioactive carotenoids of saffron, crocin and crocetin, on 4T1 breast cancer and on a mice model of TNBC, and assess the effect of the most potent combination on the Wnt/β-catenin pathway. MAIN METHODS The effects of the carotenoid combinations on the viability of 4T1 cells were determined by MTT assay. The effects of the nontoxic doses on migration, mobility, invasion and adhesion to ECM were examined by scratch assay, Transwell/Matrigel-coated Transwell chamber and adhesion assay respectively. Tumors were inoculated by injecting mice with 4T1 cells. The weights and survival rates of the mice and tumor sizes were monitored. Histological analysis of the tissues was conducted. The expression levels of Wnt/β-catenin pathway genes were measured by Real-time PCR and western blotting. KEY FINDINGS Treatment of 4T1 cells with combination doses inhibited viability in a dose-dependent manner. The nontoxic combinations significantly inhibited migration, cell mobility and invasion, also attenuating adhesion to ECM. The combination therapy mice possessed more weight, higher survival rates and smaller tumors. Histological examination detected remarkably fewer metastatic foci in their livers and lungs. It was also demonstrated that the combinations exerted anti-metastatic effects by disturbing the Wnt/β-catenin target genes in the liver and tumors. SIGNIFICANCE Our findings propose a carotenoid combination as an alternative potent herbal treatment for TNBC, which lacks the adverse effects associated with either chemotherapeutic agents or herb-chemotherapeutic drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laleh Arzi
- Institute of Biochemistry and Biophysics (IBB), University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Reyhane Hoshyar
- Microbiology and Molecular Genetics Department, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824, USA; Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Birjand University of Medical Sciences, Birjand, Iran
| | - Nazli Jafarzadeh
- Department of Genetics, School of Biological Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Gholamhossein Riazi
- Institute of Biochemistry and Biophysics (IBB), University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Majid Sadeghizadeh
- Department of Genetics, School of Biological Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran.
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Reddy CN, Bharate SB, Vishwakarma RA, Bharate SS. Chemical analysis of saffron by HPLC based crocetin estimation. J Pharm Biomed Anal 2020; 181:113094. [PMID: 31927167 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpba.2020.113094] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2019] [Revised: 12/30/2019] [Accepted: 01/02/2020] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Abstract
Saffron is one of the most expensive and valuable spice having tremendous commercial value in food industry and thus its quality check is of utmost importance. Crocins are unique group of extremely hydrophilic apocarotenoids which are main components of saffron. Crocetin is an aglycone of crocins which do occur naturally in saffron, and is produced in biological system as a bioactive metabolite via hydrolytic cleavage of crocins. Crocins are unstable and tend to undergo isomerisation/ inter-conversions, and therefore their quantitative estimation is difficult. Herein, we have established for the first time, a crocetin-based HPLC method to evaluate the total crocin content of saffron, and thereby analyze the quality of saffron. The present approach comprises alkali-mediated conversion of crocins to crocetin in raw material followed by quantitative estimation of in-situ formed crocetin by HPLC analysis. The unique and efficient protocol for preparation of high purity analytical grade 'crocetin' directly from saffron has also been established. It is simple and efficient way to check the quality of saffron/ saffron-containing products.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chilakala Nagarjuna Reddy
- Preformulation Laboratory, PK-PD Toxicology and Formulation Division, CSIR- Indian Institute of Integrative Medicine, Canal Road, Jammu, 180001, India
| | - Sandip B Bharate
- Medicinal Chemistry Division, CSIR- Indian Institute of Integrative Medicine, Canal Road, Jammu, 180001, India; Academy of Scientific & Innovative Research, CSIR-Indian Institute of Integrative Medicine, Canal Road, Jammu, 180001, India
| | - Ram A Vishwakarma
- Medicinal Chemistry Division, CSIR- Indian Institute of Integrative Medicine, Canal Road, Jammu, 180001, India; Academy of Scientific & Innovative Research, CSIR-Indian Institute of Integrative Medicine, Canal Road, Jammu, 180001, India
| | - Sonali S Bharate
- Preformulation Laboratory, PK-PD Toxicology and Formulation Division, CSIR- Indian Institute of Integrative Medicine, Canal Road, Jammu, 180001, India.
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Neyshaburinezhad N, Kalalinia F, Hashemi M. Encapsulation of crocetin into poly (lactic-co-glycolic acid) nanoparticles overcomes drug resistance in human ovarian cisplatin-resistant carcinoma cell line (A2780-RCIS). Mol Biol Rep 2019; 46:6525-32. [PMID: 31646427 DOI: 10.1007/s11033-019-05098-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2019] [Accepted: 09/22/2019] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Nanoparticles and herbal medicines have gained considerable attention in overcoming multidrug resistance through different mechanisms. In this study, the effects of poly (Lactic-co-glycolic acid)-crocetin nanoparticles (PLGA-Crt NPs) on MRP1 and MRP2 activity in a human ovarian cisplatin-resistant carcinoma cell line (A2780-RCIS) and its parental form (A2780) were evaluated. PLGA-Crt NPs were formulated and then characterized. The cytotoxic effect of Crt, PLGA-Crt NPs, and empty PLGA NPs was assessed using MTT test in A2780 and A2780-RCIS cells. The effect of PLGA-Crt NPs on MRP1 and MRP2 mRNA expression was evaluated by Real-Time qRT-PCR. The impact of PLGA-Crt NPs on the functioning of MRP transporters was assessed by the doxorubicin efflux assay. The particle size, entrapment efficiency (EE) and loading capacity (LC) of PLGA-Crt NPs were obtained about 239.8 ± 9 nm, 79 ± 3% and 4.9 ± 0.2%, respectively. The PLGA-Crt NPs IC50 values were obtained 104 ± 3 µM and 96 ± 2 µM in A2780 and A2780-RCIS cell lines, respectively. The Real-time RT-PCR results demonstrated the inhibition of mRNA expression of MRP2 in all studied concentrations (up to 67 ± 8% at 100 µM) in A2780-RCIS cells. PLGA-Crt NPs showed more indirect efflux inhibition (up to 70 ± 5%) compared to direct inhibition (up to 49 ± 5%). The encapsulation of crocetin into PLGA NPs can increase its inhibitory effects on drug resistance by downregulating MRP2 transporters.
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Abstract
The effects of saffron carotenoids, crocetin (Crt) and crocin (Cro) on the structure, function and kinetics of catalase (CAT) were investigated. Both Crt and Cro quenched the fluorescence emission of CAT through the dynamic mechanism, but Crt (Ksv= 8.1 × 104 mol-1) was more effective than Cro (Ksv= 0.6 × 104 mol-1) at 300 °K. The UV-vis and circular dichroism spectra showed conformational changes of CAT in the presence of both carotenoids, but with different degrees. Kinetic studies showed strong inhibition of CAT by Crt, while, different concentrations of Cro showed different effects. Our in vitro data showed that Crt treatment significantly (p = 0.002) reduced the CAT activity in MCF-7, up to 24 h. The in vivo results showed that both Crt and Cro significantly increased the CAT activity in the tumor (p = 0.000 for both), and liver (p = 0.000 and p = 0.026 for Crt and Cro, respectively) tissues of 4T1-induced breast cancer in BALB/c mice, after 4 weeks of treatment. These findings are consistent with the binding, thermodynamic and molecular docking data. In conclusion, Crt and Cro with some differences in the structure affect CAT structure, function and activity, but in a slightly different manner.Communicated by Ramaswamy H. Sarma.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Ali Hashemi
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
| | - S Zahra Bathaie
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohammad-Ali Mohagheghi
- Cancer Research Center of Cancer Institute, Imam Khomeini Hospital, Tehran University of Medical Science, Tehran, Iran
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Gezici S. Comparative anticancer activity analysis of saffron extracts and a principle component, crocetin for prevention and treatment of human malignancies. J Food Sci Technol 2019; 56:5435-43. [PMID: 31749491 DOI: 10.1007/s13197-019-04014-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Revised: 08/02/2019] [Accepted: 08/07/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Abstract Saffron, obtained from dry stigmas of the flowers of Crocus sativus L. (fam. Iridaceae), is an ancient spice and a natural food colorant that has been used to treat various diseases in the long human history. Crocetin is of the main secondary metabolites of saffron and its curative properties for many ailments have been revealed in the previous scientific reports. The aim of this study was to evaluate the anticancer potentials of saffron extracts and its pure crocetin compounds against human cancer cells. The cytotoxic and antiproliferative activities along with lactate dehydrogenase activities of extracts and crocetin, a carotenoid derived from saffron, were assessed using A549, MCF-7 and HeLa human cancer cells, and compared to the non-malignant HUVECs. Additionally, apoptotic activity in the cells treated and untreated with the extracts and pure crocetin were determined in terms of DNA fragmentation. The results showed the extracts and crocetin from saffron induced cytotoxicity, enhanced cancer cell death as well as inhibited cancer cell growth in a concentration and time dependent manner. In addition, the results revealed that the tested compounds at different concentration had no cytotoxic effects on the non-malignant cells, whereas, it could significantly decrease the cell viability and proliferation in the malignant cells. As compared to anticancer potentials of the analyzed extracts and its pure crocetin compounds, crocetin was found as the more potent one. Overall, this research suggests that crocetin is a potential anticancer agent that can be used for cancer prevention and treatment. Graphic abstract
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Wang W, He P, Zhao D, Ye L, Dai L, Zhang X, Sun Y, Zheng J, Bi C. Construction of Escherichia coli cell factories for crocin biosynthesis. Microb Cell Fact 2019; 18:120. [PMID: 31277660 PMCID: PMC6610952 DOI: 10.1186/s12934-019-1166-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2019] [Accepted: 06/24/2019] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Crocin is a carotenoid-derived natural product found in the stigma of Crocus spp., which has great potential in medicine, food and cosmetics. In recent years, microbial production of crocin has drawn increasing attention, but there were no reports of successful implementation. Escherichia coli has been engineered to produce various carotenoids, including lycopene, β-carotene and astaxanthin. Therefore, we intended to construct E. coli cell factories for crocin biosynthesis. Results In this study, a heterologous crocetin and crocin synthesis pathway was first constructed in E. coli. Firstly, the three different zeaxanthin-cleaving dioxygenases CsZCD, CsCCD2 from Crocus sativus, and CaCCD2 from Crocus ancyrensis, as well as the glycosyltransferases UGT94E5 and UGT75L6 from Gardenia jasminoides, were introduced into zeaxanthin-producing E. coli cells. The results showed that CsCCD2 catalyzed the synthesis of crocetin dialdehyde. Next, the aldehyde dehydrogenases ALD3, ALD6 and ALD9 from Crocus sativus and ALD8 from Neurospora crassa were tested for crocetin dialdehyde oxidation, and we were able to produce 4.42 mg/L crocetin using strain YL4(pCsCCD2-UGT94E5-UGT75L6,pTrc-ALD8). Glycosyltransferases from diverse sources were screened by in vitro enzyme activity assays. The results showed that crocin and its various derivatives could be obtained using the glycosyltransferases YjiC, YdhE and YojK from Bacillus subtilis, and the corresponding genes were introduced into the previously constructed crocetin-producing strain. Finally, crocin-5 was detected among the fermentation products of strain YL4(pCsCCD2-UGT94E5-UGT75L6,pTrc-ALD8,pET28a-YjiC-YdhE-YojK) using HPLC and LC–ESI–MS. Conclusions A heterologous crocin synthesis pathway was constructed in vitro, using glycosyltransferases from the Bacillus subtilis instead of the original plant glycosyltransferases, and a crocetin and crocin-5 producing E. coli cell factory was obtained. This research provides a foundation for the large-scale production of crocetin and crocin in E. coli cell factories. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s12934-019-1166-1) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wen Wang
- Tianjin Institute of Industrial Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Tianjin, 300308, People's Republic of China.,Shanghai Key Laboratory of New Drug Design, School of Pharmacy, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai, 200237, People's Republic of China
| | - Ping He
- Tianjin Institute of Industrial Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Tianjin, 300308, People's Republic of China.,Shanghai Key Laboratory of New Drug Design, School of Pharmacy, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai, 200237, People's Republic of China
| | - Dongdong Zhao
- Tianjin Institute of Industrial Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Tianjin, 300308, People's Republic of China
| | - Lijun Ye
- Tianjin Institute of Industrial Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Tianjin, 300308, People's Republic of China
| | - Longhai Dai
- Tianjin Institute of Industrial Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Tianjin, 300308, People's Republic of China
| | - Xueli Zhang
- Tianjin Institute of Industrial Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Tianjin, 300308, People's Republic of China
| | - Yuanxia Sun
- Tianjin Institute of Industrial Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Tianjin, 300308, People's Republic of China.
| | - Jing Zheng
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of New Drug Design, School of Pharmacy, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai, 200237, People's Republic of China.
| | - Changhao Bi
- Tianjin Institute of Industrial Biotechnology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Tianjin, 300308, People's Republic of China.
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Hashemi M, Hosseinzadeh H. A comprehensive review on biological activities and toxicology of crocetin. Food Chem Toxicol 2019; 130:44-60. [PMID: 31100302 DOI: 10.1016/j.fct.2019.05.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2018] [Revised: 05/09/2019] [Accepted: 05/11/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Natural products with high pharmacological potential and low toxicity have been considered as the novel therapeutic agents. Crocetin is an active constituent of saffron (Crocus sativus L.) stigma, which in its free-acid form is insoluble in water and most organic solvents. Crocetin exhibits various health-promoting properties including anti-tumor, neuroprotective effects, anti-diabetics, anti-inflammatory, anti-hyperlipidemia, etc. These therapeutic effects can be achieved with different mechanisms such as improvement of oxygenation in hypoxic tissues, antioxidant effects, inhibition of pro-inflammatory mediators, anti-proliferative activity and stimulation of apoptosis in cancer cells. It is also worth considering that crocetin could be tolerated without major toxicity at therapeutic dosage in experimental models. In the present review, we discuss the biosynthesis, pharmacokinetic properties of crocetin and provide a comprehensive study on the biological activities and toxicity along with the mechanism of actions and clinical trials data of crocetin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maryam Hashemi
- Nanotechnology Research Center, Pharmaceutical Technology Institute, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Hossein Hosseinzadeh
- Department of Pharmacodynamics and Toxicology, School of Pharmacy, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran; Pharmaceutical Research Center, Pharmaceutical Technology Institute, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran.
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Pradhan J, Mohanty C, Sahoo SK. Protective efficacy of crocetin and its nanoformulation against cyclosporine A-mediated toxicity in human embryonic kidney cells. Life Sci 2018; 216:39-48. [PMID: 30444987 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2018.11.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2018] [Revised: 10/23/2018] [Accepted: 11/12/2018] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
AIM This study is aimed to formulate crocetin-loaded lipid Nanoparticles (NPs) and to evaluate its antioxidant properties in a cyclosporine A-mediated toxicity in Human Embryonic Kidney (HEK-293) cells in vitro. MAIN METHODS Crocetin-loaded NPs were prepared followed by physicochemical characterization. In vitro protective efficacy of crocetin and crocetin loaded NPs was investigated in cyclosporine A-mediated toxicity in HEK-293 cells by assessing free radical scavenging, DNA Nicking, cytotoxicity, intracellular Reactive oxygen species (ROS) inhibition, Mitochondrial membrane potential (MMPs) loss and evaluating the activity and expression of antioxidant enzymes and non-enzyme level. Further, we have studied the mechanism of protective activity of crocetin either native or in NPs by studying the expression of phase II detoxifying proteins (HO-1) via Nrf2 mediated regulation. KEY FINDINGS Our results showed that pretreatment with crocetin and crocetin-loaded NPs attenuated the cyclosporine A-mediated toxicity, ROS production and exhibited enhance free radical scavenging ability and cytoprotective activity. Further, the treatment prevented MMPs loss by directly scavenging the ROS and restored the antioxidant enzyme network with normalization of heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) expression by inhibiting nuclear translocation of Nrf2. SIGNIFICANCE Pretreatment of crocetin and crocetin-loaded NPs provided pronounce protective effect against cyclosporine A-mediated toxicity in HEK-293 cells by nullifying the ROS formation and restored antioxidant network through inhibition of Nrf2 translocation and followed by expression of HO-1. Such an approach may be anticipated to be beneficial for antioxidant therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jyotsnarani Pradhan
- Institute of Life Sciences, Bhubaneswar, Odisha, India; P.G. Department of Biotechnology, Utkal University, Bhubaneswar, Odisha, India
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Zhang H, Shang Q, An J, Wang C, Ma J. Crocetin inhibits PDGF-BB-induced proliferation and migration of retinal pigment epithelial cells. Eur J Pharmacol 2018; 842:329-337. [PMID: 30395849 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2018.11.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2018] [Revised: 10/29/2018] [Accepted: 11/01/2018] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
In proliferative vitreoretinopathy (PVR), the proliferation and migration of retinal pigment epithelial (RPE) cells are important to pathogenesis. Platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF) is an important factor in the underlying mechanism. Several studies have shown that PDGF induced the proliferation and migration effects on RPE cells in PVR. Crocetin-anantioxidant carotenoid that is abundant in saffron-has been shown to suppress the migration and proliferation of many cell types, but studies of the effects on RPE cell migration and proliferation are incomplete. Therefore, we investigated the inhibitory effect of crocetin on the proliferation and migration of ARPE-19 cells induced by PDGF-BB, an isoform of PDGF. The proliferation of cells was assessed by Cell Counting Kit-8 (CCK-8) and 5-ethynyl-2'-deoxyuridine (EdU) assays. The apoptosis of cells was assessed by flow cytometric analysis. The migration of RPE cells was detected by a Transwell migration assay and an in vitro scratch assay. The levels of main regulatory proteins for apoptosis and the PDGF-BB-induced signaling pathway were determined by western blot analysis. The proliferation and migration of ARPE-19 cells treated with crocetin (100-400 μM) and PDGF-BB (20 ng/ml) were significantly inhibited in a concentration- and time-dependent manner. Crocetin exhibited potent inducing effects on the apoptosis of PDGF-BB-induced ARPE-19 cells via the modulation of Bcl-2 family regulators in a concentration-dependent manner. The inhibitory effects of crocetin on PDGF-BB-induced platelet-derived growth factor receptor β (PDGFRβ) and the underlying pathways of PI3K/Akt and ERK, p38, JNK activation were identified. The results showed that crocetin is an effective inhibitor of PDGF-BB-induced proliferation and migration of ARPE-19 cell through the downregulation of regulatory signaling pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- He Zhang
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang 050000, Hebei, China
| | - Qingli Shang
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang 050000, Hebei, China
| | - Jianbin An
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang 050000, Hebei, China
| | - Caixia Wang
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang 050000, Hebei, China
| | - Jingxue Ma
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang 050000, Hebei, China.
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Abstract
BACKGROUND Crocetin, an agent derived from saffron, has multiple pharmacological properties, such as neuroprotective, anti-oxidant, and anti-inflammatory actions. These properties might benefit the treatment of Alzheimer's disease (AD). In the present study, we tested whether crocetin attenuates inflammation and amyloid-β (Aβ) accumulation in APPsw transgenic mice, AD mouse models. Cell viability and the levels of Aβ40 and Aβ42 in HeLa cells stably transfected with Swedish mutant APP751 were evaluated. Mice with Swedish mutant APP751 transgene were used as transgenic mouse models of AD, and were orally administrated with crocetin. Aβ protein and inflammatory cytokines were measured with ELISA. NF-κB and P53 were measured with western blot assay. Learning and memory were analyzed with Morris water maze and novel object recognition tests. RESULTS Crocetin significantly reduced Aβ40 and Aβ42 secretion in Hela cells without effecting cell viability. In AD transgenic mice, crocetin significantly reduced the pro-inflammatory cytokines and enhanced anti-inflammatory cytokine in plasma, suppressed NF-κB activation and P53 expression in the hippocampus, decreased Aβ in various brain areas, and improved learning and memory deficits. CONCLUSION Crocetin improves Aβ accumulation-induced learning and memory deficit in AD transgenic mice, probably due to its anti-inflammatory and anti-apoptotic functions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jin Zhang
- Department of Neurology, Daqing Oilfield General Hospitals, No. 9 Zhongkang Road, Daqing, 163001 China
| | - Yuchao Wang
- Department of Neurology, Daqing Oilfield General Hospitals, No. 9 Zhongkang Road, Daqing, 163001 China
| | - Xueshuang Dong
- Department of Neurology, Daqing Oilfield General Hospitals, No. 9 Zhongkang Road, Daqing, 163001 China
| | - Jianghua Liu
- Department of Neurology, Daqing Oilfield General Hospitals, No. 9 Zhongkang Road, Daqing, 163001 China
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Karkoula E, Lemonakis N, Kokras N, Dalla C, Gikas E, Skaltsounis AL, Tsarbopoulos A. Trans-crocin 4 is not hydrolyzed to crocetin following i.p. administration in mice, while it shows penetration through the blood brain barrier. Fitoterapia 2018; 129:62-72. [PMID: 29920295 DOI: 10.1016/j.fitote.2018.06.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2018] [Revised: 06/14/2018] [Accepted: 06/15/2018] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
A novel, fit-for-purpose, highly sensitive, analytical UPLC-PDA methodology was developed and fully validated, according to ICH, FDA and EMA guidelines, for the rapid and accurate quantification of trans-crocin 4 (TC4) and crocetin (CRC) in mice plasma and brain after i.p. administration. A PDA based methodology shows a wider applicability as it is cost effective and can be easily and seamlessly adopted by the pharma industry. The separation of the analytes was performed on a C18 Hypersil Gold column with 2.5 min run time, employing the internal standard (ISTD) methodology. The two methods were successfully applied for the determination of CRC and TC4 in mouse plasma and brain after i.p. administration of TC4 (50 mg/kg) in a time range of 0-240 min. Due to the selection of i.p. administration route, the first-pass metabolism and/or gastric hydrolysis were bypassed, a fact that enhanced the bioavailability of TC4. Furthermore, TC4 was found to be capable of crossing the Blood Brain Barrier (BBB) and build up levels in the mouse brain, regardless of its highly hydrophilic character. CRC was not detected in any plasma or brain sample, although it has been reported that TC4 quickly hydrolyzes to CRC after p.o. administration. Therefore i.p. administration could be used in the case of TC4 for the accurate determination of its biological role. Overall, the developed methodology offers important information about the bioavailability of TC4 in mouse plasma and for the first time, demonstrates the ability of TC4 to penetrate the BBB and localize inside the brain.
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Bukhari SI, Manzoor M, Dhar MK. A comprehensive review of the pharmacological potential of Crocus sativus and its bioactive apocarotenoids. Biomed Pharmacother 2018; 98:733-745. [PMID: 29306211 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2017.12.090] [Citation(s) in RCA: 91] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2017] [Revised: 12/02/2017] [Accepted: 12/18/2017] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Crocus sativus is an herbaceous plant that belongs to family Iridaceae. It is commonly known as saffron and has been used for medicinal purposes since many centuries in India and other parts of the world. Saffron of commercial importance comprises of dried stigmas of the plant and is rich in flavonoids, vitamins, and carotenoids. Carotenoids represent the main components of saffron and their cleavage results in the formation of apocarotenoids such as crocin, picrocrocin, and safranal. Studies conducted during the past two decades have revealed the immense therapeutic potential of saffron. Most of the therapeutic properties are due to the presence of unique apocarotenoids having strong free radical scavenging activity. The mode of action of these apocarotenoids could be: modulatory effects on detoxifying enzymes involved in combating oxidative stress, decreasing telomerase activity, increased the proapoptotic effect, inhibition of DNA, RNA and protein synthesis, and by a strong binding capacity of crocetin with tRNA. The present review focuses on the therapeutic role of saffron and its bio oxidative cleavage products and also highlights the possible molecular mechanism of action. The findings reported in this review describes the wide range of applications of saffron and attributes its free radical scavenging nature the main property which makes this spice a potent chemotherapeutic agent for the treatment of various diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Mahreen Manzoor
- School of Biotechnology, University of Jammu, Jammu, 180006, India
| | - M K Dhar
- School of Biotechnology, University of Jammu, Jammu, 180006, India
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