Exploring the pharmacological mechanisms and key active ingredients of total flavonoids from Lamiophlomis rotata (Benth.) Kudo against rheumatoid arthritis based on multi-technology integrated network pharmacology

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Lamiophlomis rotata (Benth.) Kudo (LR, Lamiaceae) is a traditional Tibetan medicinal material in China. Tibetan medicine classic and research report suggested that LR could be used to cure rheumatoid arthritis (RA). However, the anti-RA active ingredients and pharmacological mechanisms of LR have not been elucidated.

AIM OF THE STUDY

To explore the mechanisms and key active ingredients of total flavonoids from LR (TFLR) against RA.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

First, the mechanisms of TFLR against RA were investigated on collagen-induced arthritis (CIA) rat model by analyzing paw appearance, paw swelling, arthritis score, spleen index, thymus index, inflammatory cytokine (TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6 and IL-17) levels in serum, histopathology of ankle joint and synovium from knee joint (hematoxylin-eosin, safranin O-fast green and DAB-TUNEL staining), and apoptosis-related protein (PI3K, Akt1, p-Akt, Bad, p-Bad, Bcl-xL and Bcl-2) levels in the synovium of ankle joints (Western blot). Then, the crucially active ingredients of TFLR against RA were explored by network pharmacology, ingredient analysis, in vitro metabolism and TNF-α-induced human RA synovial fibroblast MH7A proliferation assays. Network pharmacology was applied to predict the key active ingredients of TFLR against RA. The ingredient analysis and in vitro metabolism of TFLR were performed on HPLC, and MH7A proliferation assay were applied to evaluate the predicted results of network pharmacology.

RESULTS

TFLR shown excellently anti-RA effect by reducing paw swelling, arthritis score, spleen index, thymus index and inflammatory cytokine (IL-1β, IL-6 and IL-17) levels, and improving the histopathological changes of ankle joint and synovium from knee joint in CIA rats. Results of Western blot indicated that TFLR reversed the changes of PI3K, p-Akt, p-Bad, Bcl-xL and Bcl-2 levels in the ankle joint synovium of CIA rats. Results of network pharmacology exhibited that luteolin was identified as the pivotal active ingredient of TFLR against RA. The ingredient analysis of TFLR indicated that the main ingredient in TFLR was luteoloside. The in vitro metabolism study of TFLR suggested that luteoloside could be converted to luteolin in artificial gastric juice and intestinal juice. Results of MH7A proliferation assay showed that there was no significant difference between TFLR and equal luteoloside on the viability of MH7A cells, indicating that luteoloside was the key active ingredient of TFLR against RA. Additionally, the luteolin (same mol as luteoloside) showed better inhibitory effect on the viability of MH7A cells than luteoloside.

CONCLUSION

TFLR showed anti-RA effect, and the mechanism was related to promoting synovial cell apoptosis mediated by PI3K/Akt/Bad pathway. Meanwhile, this work indicated that luteoloside was the key active ingredient of TFLR against RA. This work lays a foundation for providing TFLR product with clear mechanism and stable quality to treat RA.

Moore

Artemisia anomala S. Moore exerts many pharmacological activities, including the removing of the blood stasis, relieving of the fever and analgesia, reducing the swelling and dampness. In this study, the extraction technology, chemical compositions and anti-inflammatory effect in vitro and mechanism of total flavonoids extract from Artemisia anomala S. Moore were studied. The optimal yield rate of total flavonoids extract was optimized by single factor experiments and response surface method, and the chemical constituents were analyzed by UPLC-QTOF-MS method; and the anti-inflammatory activity of the extract was evaluated with lipopolysaccharide induced RAW 264.7 cells. The highest extraction rate was 2.02% under these conditions of the concentration of ethanol 50%, the ultrasonic extraction time 30 min, and the ratio of solvent volume to material weight 20:1 (ml/g). In addition, the main components of total flavonoid extract were preliminarily identified and deduced based on mass spectrometry information and relevant literatures, and its stronger anti-inflammatory activity was demonstrated by reducing the phagocytosis, the content of nitric oxide and the level of related cytokines (tumor necrosis factor-α, interleukin-10, interleukin-6). Furthermore, it was further revealed that the anti-inflammatory effect of the extract was closely connected with the activation of TLR4-MyD88-NF-κB signalling pathway. This study indicated that the total flavonoids extract from Artemisia anomala S. Moore may be a better candidate anti-inflammatory natural medicine.

leaves against radiation-induced intestinal injury in mice and its mechanism

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Irradiation-induced intestinal injury (RIII) often occurs during radiotherapy in patients, which would result in abdominal pain, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, and even death. Engelhardia roxburghiana Wall. leaves, a traditional Chinese herb, has unique anti-inflammatory, anti-tumor, antioxidant, and analgesic effects, is used to treat damp-heat diarrhea, hernia, and abdominal pain, and has the potential to protect against RIII.

AIM OF THE STUDY

To explore the protective effects of the total flavonoids of Engelhardia roxburghiana Wall. leaves (TFERL) on RIII and provide some reference for the application of Engelhardia roxburghiana Wall. leaves in the field of radiation protection.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The effect of TFERL on the survival rate of mice was observed after a lethal radiation dose (7.2 Gy) by ionizing radiation (IR). To better observe the protective effects of the TFERL on RIII, a mice model of RIII induced by IR (13 Gy) was established. Small intestinal crypts, villi, intestinal stem cells (ISC) and the proliferation of ISC were observed by haematoxylin and eosin (H&E) and immunohistochemistry (IHC). Quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR) was used to detect the expression of genes related to intestinal integrity. Superoxide dismutase (SOD), reduced glutathione (GSH), interleukin-6 (IL-6) and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) in the serum of mice were assessed. In vitro, cell models of RIII induced by IR (2, 4, 6, 8 Gy) were established. Normal human intestinal epithelial cells HIEC-6 cells were treated with TFERL/Vehicle, and the radiation protective effect of TFERL on HIEC-6 cells was detected by clone formation assay. DNA damage was detected by comet assay and immunofluorescence assay. Reactive oxygen species (ROS), cell cycle and apoptosis rate were detected by flow cytometry. Oxidative stress, apoptosis and ferroptosis-related proteins were detected by western blot. Finally, the colony formation assay was used to detect the effect of TFERL on the radiosensitivity of colorectal cancer cells.

RESULTS

TFERL treatment can increase the survival rate and time of the mice after a lethal radiation dose. In the mice model of RIII induced by IR, TFERL alleviated RIII by reducing intestinal crypt/villi structural damage, increasing the number and proliferation of ISC, and maintaining the integrity of the intestinal epithelium after total abdominal irradiation. Moreover, TFERL promoted the proliferation of irradiated HIEC-6 cells, and reduced radiation-induced apoptosis and DNA damage. Mechanism studies have found that TFERL promotes the expression of NRF2 and its downstream antioxidant proteins, and silencing NRF2 resulted in the loss of radioprotection by TFERL, suggesting that TFERL exerts radiation protection by activating the NRF2 pathway. Surprisingly, TFERL reduced the number of clones of colon cancer cells after irradiation, suggesting that TFERL can increase the radiosensitivity of colon cancer cells.

CONCLUSION

Our data showed that TFERL inhibited oxidative stress, reduced DNA damage, reduced apoptosis and ferroptosis, and improved IR-induced RIII. This study may offer a fresh approach to using Chinese herbs for radioprotection.

Genotoxicity and maternal-fetal safety of the dried extract of leaves of Azadirachta indica A. Juss (Meliaceae) in Wistar rats

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Azadirachta indica A. Juss (Meliaceae), popularly known as "neem", is used for the treatment of rheumatism, cancer, ulcers, diabetes, respiratory problems, among others. This species is present on six continents and contains more than 400 bioactive compounds. Practically all parts of the plant are used in the treatment of diseases. Although it is widely used, no study has evaluated the safety of this species throughout the gestational period in Wistar rats.

AIM OF THE STUDY

To evaluate the genotoxicity and the effect of treatment with dried extract of leaves of Azadirachta indica on maternal toxicity and fetal development.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The dried extract of leaves of A. indica was obtained by spray drying after percolation of the plant material in 30% ethanol (w/w). The total flavonoids and rutin contents of the extract were determined by spectrophotometric method and HPLC-DAD, respectively. Pregnant Wistar rats (n = 40) were divided into four groups (n = 10/group): one control and three groups treated with dried extract of leaves of A. indica at doses of 300, 600 or 1200 mg/kg. Treatments were carried out from gestational day (GD) 0-20. During gestation, clinical signs of toxicity, weight gain, feed and water consumption of the dams were evaluated. On GD 21, rats were euthanized and cardiac blood was collected. Liver, kidneys, lung, heart, uterus, ovaries and bone marrow were collected. Reproductive performance parameters, histopathological analysis, biochemistry and genotoxicity were evaluated. Fetuses were evaluated for external morphology, skeletal and visceral changes.

RESULTS

The total flavonoid content of the extract ranged from 2.64 to 3.01%, and the rutin content was 1.07%. There was no change in body mass gain, food and water consumption between the evaluated groups. There was also no difference between the groups in terms of biochemical parameters, reproductive performance, histopathological analysis of the mother's organs and genotoxicity. Supernumerary ossification sites of the sternum were observed, and other skeletal and visceral alterations were not significant.

CONCLUSIONS

The treatment did not induce maternal toxicity, it was neither embryotoxic nor fetotoxic. The extract was not potentially genotoxic, and at a dose of 1200 mg/kg, it caused changes in the ossification of the sternum.

Integration of network pharmacology, transcriptomics and molecular docking reveals two novel hypoglycemic components in snow chrysanthemum

Our previous studies uncovered the glucose-lowering properties of snow chrysanthemum tea, however, the active ingredients and underlying mechanisms were yet to be uncovered. Flavonoids are the most active and abundant components in snow chrysanthemum tea. In this study, we treated leptin-deficient diabetic ob/ob or high-fat diet (HFD)-induced C57BL/6 J obese mice with or without total flavonoids of snow chrysanthemum (TFSC) for 14 weeks. Results indicated that TFSC ameliorated dyslipidemia and fatty liver, thereby reducing hyperlipidemia. Further mechanism experiments, including RNA-seq and experimental validation, revealed TFSC improved glycolipid metabolism primarily by activating the AMPK/Sirt1/PPARγ pathway. Additionally, by integrating UPLC, network pharmacology, transcriptomics, and experimental validation, we identified two novel hypoglycemic compounds, sulfuretin and leptosidin, in TFSC. Treatment with 12.5 μmol/L sulfuretin obviously stimulated cellular glucose consumption, and sulfuretin (3.125, 6.25 and 12.5 μmol/L) significantly mitigated glucose uptake damage and reliably facilitated glucose consumption in insulin-resistant HepG2 cells. Remarkably, sulfuretin interacted with the ligand-binding pocket of PPARγ via three hydrogen bond interactions with the residues LYS-367, GLN-286 and TYR-477. Furthermore, a concentration of 12.5 μmol/L sulfuretin effectively upregulated the expression of PPARγ, exhibiting a comparable potency to a renowned PPARγ agonist at 20 μmol/L. Taken together, our findings have identified two new hypoglycemic compounds and revealed their mechanisms, which significantly expands people's understanding of the active components in snow chrysanthemum that have hypoglycemic effects.

Solid-state fermentation improves the quality of chrysanthemum waste as an alternative feed ingredient

Chrysanthemum waste (CW) is an agricultural and industrial by-product produced during chrysanthemum harvesting, drying, preservation, and deep processing. Although it is nutritious, most CW is discarded, wasting resources and contributing to serious environmental problems. This work explored a solid-state fermentation (SSF) strategy to improve CW quality for use as an alternative feed ingredient. Orthogonal experiment showed that the optimal conditions for fermented chrysanthemum waste (FCW) were: CW to cornmeal mass ratio of 9:1, Pediococcus cellaris + Candida tropicalis + Bacillus amyloliquefaciens proportions of 2:2:1, inoculation amount of 6%, and fermentation time of 10 d. Compared with the control group, FCW significantly increased the contents of crude protein, ether extract, crude fiber, acid detergent fiber, neutral detergent fiber, ash, calcium, phosphorus, and total flavonoids (p < 0.01), and significantly decreased pH and saponin content (p < 0.01). SSF improved the free and hydrolyzed amino acid profiles of FCW, increased the content of flavor amino acids, and improved the amino acid composition of FCW protein. Overall, SSF improved CW nutritional quality. FCW shows potential use as a feed ingredient, and SSF helps reduce the waste of chrysanthemum processing.

Preparation and characterization of zein-lecithin-total flavonoids from Smilax glabra complex nanoparticles and the study of their antioxidant activity on HepG2 cells

Total flavonoids from Smilax glabra (TFSG) exhibit several biological activities; however, their poor stability limits their application. In this work, zein-lecithin-TFSG complex nanoparticles (Z-L-TFSG NPs) were prepared using the anti-solvent coprecipitation technique. The prepared Z-L-TFSG NPs were spherical with an encapsulation efficiency of 98.0%. Differential scanning calorimetry, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, and morphology tests revealed that the TFSG were successfully encapsulated by Z-L NPs. Z-L-TFSG NPs showed superior stability and better controlled release characteristics in simulated gastrointestinal digestion. The encapsulation of TFSG by Z-L NPs could improve their antioxidant capacity in vitro. Moreover, Z-L-TFSG NPs could enhance the protective effects of TFSG against H₂O₂-induced oxidative damage to HepG2 cells. The results indicated that the Z-L self-assembled NPs could serve as a promising drug delivery system through the integrated encapsulation of multiple flavonoids.

Pharmacological properties of total flavonoids in Scutellaria baicalensis for the treatment of cardiovascular diseases

BACKGROUND

Scutellaria baicalensis, a medicinal herb belonging to the Lamiaceae family, has been recorded in the Chinese, European, and British Pharmacopoeias. The medicinal properties of this plant are attributed to the total flavonoids of Scutellaria baicalensis (TFSB), particularly the main component, baicalin. This study provides a systematic and comprehensive list of the identified TFSB components and their chemical structures. The quality control process, pharmacokinetics, clinical application, and safety of Scutellaria baicalensis are discussed, and its pharmacological effect on cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) is detailed. Finally, the future research trends and prospects of this medicinal plant are provided.

METHODS

The Chinese and English papers related to TFSB were collected from the PubMed and CNKI databases using the relevant keywords. To highlight the pharmacological mechanism, clinical application, and safety of TFSB, the collected articles were screened and classified based on their research content.

RESULTS

TFSB contains at least 100 different kinds of flavonoids, of which baicalin, baicalein, wogonin, wogonoside, scutellarin, and scutellarein are the main active ingredients. The preparation process of TFSB is relatively well established, and the extraction rate can be significantly increased by enzymatic pretreatment and ultrasonication. The low oral availability of TFSB may be effectively enhanced using nanoformulations. The available pharmacokinetic data show that flavonoid glycosides and aglycones with the same parent nucleus may be converted to structures that are conducive to absorption in vivo. Moreover, TFSB can protect against CVDs by inhibiting apoptosis, regulating oxidative stress response, participating in inflammatory response, protecting against myocardial fibrosis, inhibiting myocardial hypertrophy, and regulating blood vessels. In terms of clinical application and animal safety, the available studies show that TFSB can be applied in a wide range of clinical treatments and is safe to use is animals.

CONCLUSION

This article systematically reviews the therapeutic effect and underlying pharmacological mechanism of TFSB against CVDs. The available studies clearly suggest that TFSB has great potential for the treatment of CVDs and is worthy of in-depth research and development.

The water extract of Radix scutellariae, its total flavonoids and baicalin inhibited CYP7A1 expression, improved bile acid, and glycolipid metabolism in T2DM mice

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Radix scutellariae (the root of Scutellaria baicalensis Georgi), is a traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) used to treat type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Abundant flavonoids are the antidiabetic components of Radix scutellariae, of which baicalin (Baicalein 7-O-glucuronide, BG) is the major bioactive component. Our previous studies found that the water extract of Radix scutellariae (WESB) could exert hypoglycemic and hypolipidemic efficacies by adjusting the ileum FXR-medicated interaction between gut microbiota and bile acid (BA) metabolism. However, it remains unclear whether WESB and its biologically active ingredients exert an antidiabetic effect through bile acid signaling mediated by FXR-CYP7A1.

AIMS OF THE STUDY

To explore the mechanism of WESB and its total flavonoids (TF) further and BG on BA signals and glycolipid metabolism in T2DM mice.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The antidiabetic effects of WESB, TF and BG were evaluated by indexing the body weight, fasting blood glucose (FBG) and oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) in HFD/STZ-induced (high-fat diet and streptozocin) diabetic mice, and comparing them with the positive control (metformin). The lipids in the mouse liver and the total bile acids (TBA) in the mouse liver and bile were detected by commercial kits. The concentration of BAs in the mouse feces was determined by liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry. The protein expression levels of cholesterol 7α-hydroxylase (CYP7A1), farnesol X receptor (FXR), etc., in the liver and/or ileum, play a key role in the BAs metabolism of T2DM mice were evaluated by immunoblot analysis.

RESULTS

The hyperglycemia and impaired glucose tolerance of T2DM mice were improved after WESB, TF and BG treatment. Especially after BG administration, the levels of low-density lipoprotein-cholesterol (LDL-c) and total glyceride (TG) in the T2DM mouse liver were significantly decreased (p < 0.05). While the level of high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-c) was significant increased (p < 0.001). Meanwhile, the levels of TBA in both the liver and bile of T2DM mice were significantly decreased by BG (p < 0.05). Moreover, the high expression of CYP7A1 in the liver of T2DM mice was significantly inhibited by WESB, TF and BG (p < 0.05), and the high expression of FXR in the ileum of T2DM mice was significantly inhibited by TF (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

These results indicated that the hypoglycemic effects of WESB, TF and BG might be exerted by inhibiting the expression of CYP7A1 in T2DM mice, and TF inhibited expression of intestinal FXR by inducing changes in fecal BA profile. BG significantly improved hepatic lipid metabolism. Moreover, BG reduced lipid accumulation in the liver and bile by inhibiting the expression of CYP7A1 in T2DM mice. These findings provide useful explanations for the antidiabetic mechanism of Radix scutellariae.

Fruit by-products: the potential natural sources of antioxidants and α-glucosidase inhibitors

The present effort was to obtain extracts from various fruit by-products using three extraction systems and to evaluate their polyphenolic content, antioxidant, and α-glucosidase inhibition activity. The fruit by-products were pre-processed by washing, drying, and milling methods to produce the powder. The powder samples were used to obtain extracts using pressurized hot-water (PHWE), enzyme-assisted (EnE) and organic solvent extraction (OSE) systems. The total phenolic content (TPC), total flavonoid content (TFC), antioxidant and α-glucosidase inhibition activity in all samples were assessed by Folin-Ciocalteu, AlCl₃ colorimetric, DPPH^· & ABST^·+ and α-glucosidase inhibitory methods. The results showed that the extracts of peel, seed and other by-products exhibited outstanding TPC, TFC, and strongest antioxidant and α-glucosidase inhibition activity, eventually higher than edible parts of the fruits. For instance, the highest TPC among the peels of various fruits were in mango peel (in all cultivar) followed by litchi peel, banana peel cv. sagor, jackfruit peel, pineapple peel, papaya peel, banana peel cv. malbhog and desi on average in all tested extraction systems. PHWE system yielded significantly (p < 0.05) higher TPC and TFC than other extraction systems. In case of misribhog mango variety, the TPC (mg GAE/g DM) in peels were 180.12 ± 7.33, 73.52 ± 2.91 and 36.10 ± 3.48, and in seeds were 222.62 ± 12.11, 76.18 ± 2.63 and 42.83 ± 12.52 for PHWE, EnE and OSE respectively. This work reported the promising potential of underutilized fruit by-products as new sources to manufacture ingredients and nutraceuticals for foods and pharmaceutical products.

Molecular docking simulation and in vitro studies on estrogenic activities of flavonoids from leaves of Carya cathayensis Sarg

The main purpose of this study was to evaluate the estrogenic properties of total flavonoids (TFs) and five flavonoid monomers (cardamonin (Car), pinostrobin chalcone (PC), wogonin (Wo), chrysin (Chr) and Pinocembrin (PI)) from leaves of Carya cathayensis Sarg (LCC). TFs from LCC were isolated and determined using HPLC. The 3-[4,5-dimethylthiazole-2-yl]-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay and flow cytometry were performed to assess the effects of flavonoids on cell proliferation and cell cycle, respectively. The molecular docking technique was applied to investigate binding conformations of the monomers from LCC to the estrogen receptor ERα and ERβ. Gene and protein expression patterns were assessed using quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR) and western blot, respectively. The results showed that TFs, Car, PC, Wo and Chr promoted proliferation of MCF-7 cells and cell transition from the G1 to S phase, and inhabitation of MCF-7 cell proliferation was observed after the treatment of PI. Molecular docking studies confirmed ERs as molecular targets for the monomers. TFs, Car, PC, Wo and Chr from LCC promoted gene expression of ERα, ERβ, progesterone receptor (PR) and pS2. Our collective results demonstrated that TFs and monomers from LCC may exert ER agonist activity through competitively bind to ER, inducing ER upregulation and active ER to estrogen response element (ERE)- independent gene regulation. As an abundant natural product, LCC may provide a novel medicinal source for treatment of diseases caused by estrogen deficiency.

Effect of storage temperatures, packaging materials and storage periods on antioxidant activity and non-enzymatic browning of antioxidant treated walnut kernels

The effect of antioxidants, temperature, packaging materials and storage periods was investigated in medium shelled walnut kernels (Hamdan) variety. The kernels were mechanically dried (40 °C), standardized and treated with butylated hydroxylanisole and butylated hydroxytoluene in combination at concentrations (0.015%) each. Then packed in laminates under vacuum and high density polyethylene non vacuum packaging materials and stored under ambient and refrigerated temperature conditions (4 °C) for a period of 9 months. All tested extracts possessed appreciable antioxidant potential. The bioactive compounds were identified by using chromatographic techniques (GC-MS and LC-MS). Before storage dried kernels exhibited high values of total phenols (31.23 mgGAE/gm), DPPH (215.13 µmol TAEg-1) and low value of non enzymatic browning (0.63 OD). Walnuts packed in laminates under vacuum and refrigerated conditions exhibited higher values of total phenols, total flavonoids, DPPH and subsequently lower change in non-enzymatic browning reactions throughout the experiment. After 90 days of storage maximum loss in total phenols and DPPH value and highest value of non enzymatic browning was observed in high density polyethylene non vacuum packaging materials under ambient temperature. The major phenolic components identified by GC/MS and LC/MS analysis were linoleic acid, oleic acid, hexadecanoic acid, epicatechin, quercetin, epicatechin and ellagic acid respectively. This study validates the antioxidant potential of the walnut kernels and the positive relationship between total phenolic content, total flavonoids and antioxidant activity.

In vitro antioxidant activity and polyphenolic content of commonly used spices from Ethiopia

INTRODUCTION

In this study, the antioxidative effectiveness, and polyphenolic content of methanol and aqueous extracts of spices such as Lippia adoensis (Koseret), Nigella sativa (Thikur azmud), Piper capense (Timiz), Thymus schimperi (Tosign) and Trachyspermum ammi (Netchazmud), consumed among people of Ethiopia were investigated.

METHODS

The antioxidant activity was assessed via established in vitro assay models such as 2, 2-Diphenyl-1-Picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical quenching assay, reducing power assay and reactive nitrogen species (RNS) inhibitory potential. Total phenolics content was measured according to Folin-Ciocalteu's method and total flavonoid content was estimated by using Aluminium chloride colorimetric method.

RESULTS

The results showed that the total phenolic content was highest in both methanol (720 ± 0.04 mg GAE/100 g extract DW) and aqueous (580 ± 0.08 mg GAE/100 g DW) extracts of L. adoensis. Among the five tested spices, the methanol and aqueous extracts of L. adoensis exerted the strongest DPPH radical quenching activity with IC50values of 49.17 ± 1.26 and 20.99 ± 8.6 μg/mL, respectively. Both methanol and aqueous extracts of L. adoensis showed notable reducing capacity. The highest RNS scavenging activity was shown by both methanol (IC50 597.21 ± 6.99 μg/mL) and aqueous (IC50 = 551.5 ± 28.9 μg/mL) extracts of L. adoensis. High to moderate positive correlations were observed between total phenolic contents and in vitro antioxidant assays. This indicates that the antioxidant activities of the tested spices are attributed to the phenolic contents.

CONCLUSION

The results of the present work revealed that the tested spices demonstrated high phenolic contents and antioxidant properties. Thus, these spices are worth considering as important sources of natural antioxidant agents.

Variability of antioxidant properties, catechins, caffeine, L-theanine and other amino acids in different plant parts of Azorean Camellia sinensis

During Camellia sinensis tea processing, manufacturers usually remove the internodes, which are classified as waste. This study presents the first determination of plant part contribution, particularly internodes, to green tea quality, in order to find the best blend to maximize impact on human health. Catechins, caffeine and free amino acid (FAA) profiles were determined by RP-HPLC/DAD, total phenolics (TPC) and total flavonoids (TFC) by Folin-Ciocalteu and colorimetric methodologies, respectively, and antioxidant activities by free radical-scavenging activity (FRSA), ferric-reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) and ferrous ion-chelating (FIC) methods. Individual esterified catechins content decreased as follows: epicatechin-3-gallate > epigallocatechin-3-gallate ≫ gallocatecin-3-gallate, and epicatechin derivatives content ranged from 63.91 to 91.22% of total catechins. Caffeine content was higher in internodes. L-theanine, histidine, asparagine, phenylalanine, glutamic acid and methionine were the major FAAs, and internodes contained the highest amounts of L-theanine and histidine (17 and 13.73 mg/g of sample, respectively). TPC ranged from 201.51 to 265.48 mg gallic acid equivalents/g dry extract (DE) and TFC ranged from 23.84 to 72.02 mg rutin equivalents/g DE. Internodes presented the lowest FRSA (EC₅₀ = 6.10–13.50 μg/mL), FRAP (EC₅₀ = 5.70–11.40 μg/mL) and FIC activity (36.96–79.21%). Bud presented the highest FRSA and FRAP, and bud+1st+2^ndleaves + internodes the highest FIC activity. The results revealed the potential contribution of the internodes to green tea quality and, consequently, to human health.

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Metabolites variability is observed in different parts of Azorean Camellia sinensis.

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Camellia sinensis plant parts are good sources of polyphenols (catechins).

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Internodes are not useless tea plant waste but a valuable tea quality component.

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Theanine is the major amino acid in Camellia sinensis particularly in internodes.

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Addition of internodes to the tea leaves have significative impact on human health.

Effect of roasting temperature and time on volatile compounds, total polyphenols, total flavonoids, and lignan of omija (Schisandra chinensis Baillon) fruit extract

In this study, roasting was applied to enhance the volatile compound content and antioxidant activity of hot-air dried omija (Schisandra chinensis Baillon) fruit. The major volatile compounds were furfural, 1,8-cineole and terpinen-4-ol. Total volatile compound concentration in omija roasted at 150 ℃ for 15 min was approximately 4 times higher than that in hot-air dried omija. Contents of monoterpenes and sesquiterpenes in roasted omija were significantly increased, compared to that of the hot-air dried omija (P < 0.05). The contents of schizandrin in extracts of hot-air dried omija and omija roasted at 150 ℃ for 10 min were determined to be 28.9 and 106.5 mg/100 g extract, respectively. The content of gomisin A from roasted omija was about 5 times higher than that of hot-air dried omija. Through this study, it is believed that the usability of omija will be expanded.

Protective effect of Chrysanthemum morifolium Ramat. ethanol extract on lipopolysaccharide induced acute lung injury in mice

BACKGROUND

To evaluate the effect of Chrysanthemum morifolium Ramat. ethanol extract (CEE) on lipopolysaccharide induced acute lung injury in mice.

METHODS

The ninety C57BL/6 J male mice randomly divided into five groups: control, model and CEE (50, 100, 200 mg/kg) groups for 7 days oral administration. At the last administration, all mice except control were intratracheal instilled with lipopolysaccharide (LPS, 3 mg/kg) for establish the acute lung injury. Then lung histopathologic, lung wet/dry weight, white blood cells, lymphocytes, neutrophils were detected. The pro-inflammation cytokine tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interleukin (IL)-6, anti-inflammatory cytokine transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1), IL-10 and the marker of antioxides ability total-antioxidant capacity (T-AOC), malondialdehyde (MDA) in lung tissue were measured.

RESULTS

The result showed that CEE could improve lung histopathological injury, reduce the ratio of wet/dry lung weight and lung index, inhibit the increased number of white blood cells, lymphocytes and neutrophils, and reduce the increased levels of TNF-α and IL-6. While CEE also significantly increased the levels of TGF-β1 and IL-10. Furthermore, CEE also markedly increased the activity of T-AOC, and decreased the contents of MDA with a dose-dependent manner.

CONCLUSIONS

The study exhibited that CEE has a potential protective effect on lipopolysaccharide induced acute lung injury in mice, the action mechanism of CEE may through balance of the pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory factors, and the oxygen free radicals inhibition.

Improve cardiac function and attenuate cardiac remodeling post myocardial infarction in mice

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

The plant Anchusa italica Retz. (Anchusa azurea Mill.) has been traditionally used in Uygur medicine for the treatment of cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases in China. Our previous study showed that total flavonoids from Anchusa italica Retz. (TFAI) exhibited potent cardioprotection in acute ischemia/reperfusion injured rats.

AIM OF THE STUDY

This study was undertaken to investigate the effects of TFAI on chronic myocardial infarction (MI) in mice and the underlying mechanism.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Total flavonoids were extracted from the whole herb of Anchusa italica Retz. and were characterized using HPLC-MS analysis. The left anterior descending branch of the coronary artery was ligated to simulate MI injury in mice. After surgery, mice were orally fed with TFAI at the doses of 10, 30 and 50 mg/kg body weight/day for a total of four weeks. Cardiac function and infarct size were measured, and inflammatory mediators were detected. Hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) staining and Masson's trichrome staining were performed on heart sections. The apoptotic factors, such as Bax, Bcl-2 and cleaved caspase 3, as well as the key proteins in the PI3K/Akt/mTOR signaling pathway were examined by Western blot.

RESULTS

The content of total flavonoids in TFAI was 56.2%. Four weeks following the MI surgery, TFAI enhanced the survival rate in post-MI mice. TFAI treatment at the doses of 30 and 50 mg/kg remarkably reduced infarct size and improved cardiac function as indicated by elevated EF and FS. Assay of the inflammatory factors showed that sera levels of TNF-α, IL-1β and IL-6 were markedly decreased by TFAI treatment compared to the MI group. H&E staining and Masson's trichrome staining demonstrated that TFAI suppressed myocyte hypertrophy and cardiac fibrosis as indicated by the decreased cross-section area and collagen volume. Western blot analysis showed that cleaved caspase 3 and Bax/Bcl-2 were significantly downregulated following TFAI treatment. Furthermore, TFAI treatment significantly suppressed the activation of the PI3K/Akt/mTOR signaling pathway.

CONCLUSIONS

Our data suggest that TFAI exerts a potent protective effect against chronic MI injury, and its beneficial effects on cardiac function and cardiac remodeling might be attributable, at least in part, to anti-inflammation and inhibition of the PI3K/Akt/mTOR signaling pathway.

Protective effect of total flavonoids from Ixeris Sonchifolia on herpes simplex virus keratitis in mice

Background

To investigate the protective effect of Ixeris Sonchifolia (Bae.) Hance (ISH) extract on herpes simplex virus keratitis (HSK) in mice.

Methods

A mouse model of HSK was established by inoculating 60 mice (60 right eyes) with herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) by corneal scratch. The other 15 mice as blank control only received corneal scratch but without HSV-1. From the 2nd day after the successful modeling, the experimental group was fed with ISH total flavonoids (50, 100 and 200 mg/kg) orally, twice a day for 14 days. The model group and control group were given the same amount of normal saline. The pathological changes of cornea were observed once a day by slit lamp microscopy combined with fluorescein staining. The corneal histopathological examination, the survival status and the serum levels of interleukin-2 (IL-2), IL-4 and interferon-gama (INF-γ) were performed at the end of the experiment.

Results

The result showed that ISH could significantly improve the corneal lesion degree, increase mice survival rate, and markedly increase the levels of IL-2 and INF-γ, reduce the levels of IL-4 in serum of mice.

Conclusions

ISH could increase the anti-virus ability, promote the healing of corneal inflammation and alleviate the pathological damage of cornea, which suggested that ISH has a potential and valuable therapeutic effect on the HSK.

Mitigation of lead neurotoxicity by the ethanolic extract of Laurus leaf in rats

The present study was conducted in order to assess the chemical composition of Laurus, its antioxidant activities, and benefit from the Laurus extract effect on neurotoxicity caused by lead acetate (Pb). Chemical profile was assayed by using liquid chromatography coupled with high-resolution mass spectrometry (LC-HR-MS). In this study, 40 male rats were divided into four groups (10 rats per each group): (1) control group, (2) Laurus group: rats treated with 250 mg/kg b. wt. of Laurus leaves extract, (3) Pb group: rats treated with 100 mg/kg b. wt. of lead acetate, (4) Pb + Laurus group: rats treated with 250 mg/kg b. wt. of Laurus leaves extract in addition to lead acetate for 30 days. At the end of experiment, some estimates were calculated from blood samples, brain tissue, and histological examination. The results showed that the extract is highly affluent in total flavonoids, total phenolic, and also has antioxidant activity. The LC-MS appeared a wide range of compounds in the extract. The oxidative stress resulted from exposure to lead acetate has been reported to cause reduction in body and brain weights, levels of RBCs, acetylcholinesterase (AChE), GSH, SOD, and CAT in addition to increase in levels of WBCs and MAD. Moreover, Laurus leaves extract notably lessened the biochemical changes caused by lead acetate in the blood, homogenate, and brain tissue (P < 0.05). The current study indicates the antioxidant activity of Laurus leaves extract and assumes that it has a defensive role against the oxidative damage caused by lead in a rat's brain.

Developing deep learning based regression approaches for determination of chemical compositions in dry black goji berries (Lycium ruthenicum Murr.) using near-infrared hyperspectral imaging

Black goji berry (Lycium ruthenicum Murr.) has great commercial and nutritional values. Near-infrared hyperspectral imaging (NIR-HSI) was used to determine total phenolics, total flavonoids and total anthocyanins in dry black goji berries. Convolutional neural networks (CNN) were designed and developed to predict the chemical compositions. These CNN models and deep autoencoder were used as supervised and unsupervised feature extraction methods, respectively. Partial least squares (PLS) and least-squares support vector machine (LS-SVM) as modelling methods, successive projections algorithm and competitive adaptive reweighted sampling (CARS) as wavelength selection methods, and principal component analysis (PCA) and wavelet transform (WT) as feature extraction methods were studied as conventional approaches for comparison. Deep learning approaches as modelling methods and feature extraction methods obtained good and equivalent performances to the conventional methods. The results illustrated that deep learning had great potential as modelling and feature extraction methods for chemical compositions determination in NIR-HSI.

extracts by macroporous adsorption resins and in vitro evaluation of antioxidant and antiproliferative activities

The aim of this work is to develop an efficient and economical method for the enrichment of total flavonoids from Pteris ensiformis Burm. extracts. Resin screening, adsorption kinetics, adsorption isotherms and thermodynamics were successively researched prior to the dynamic adsorption and desorption tests. NKA-II resin was chosen as the best adsorbent, and the adsorption data were best described by the pseudo-second-order kinetics model and Langmuir isotherm model. The optimum enrichment conditions were as follows: for adsorption the total flavonoids concentration, flow rate and volume of sample were 1.84 mg/mL, 2 BV/h and 5 BV, respectively, and for desorption the flavonoids-loaded NKA-II resin column was desorbed by 7 BV of 50% ethanol at a rate of 2 BV/h. The product had a 6.63-fold higher total flavonoids content than crude extracts, and the recovery yield of total flavonoids was 80.65%. Furthermore, flavonoids-enriched extracts exhibited higher in vitro scavenging activity against superoxide anion radical and hydroxyl radical than crude extracts. In addition, higher antiproliferative activity of flavonoids-enriched extracts against MCF-7 and HepG-2 cell lines was also found as compared to the crude extracts. The developed method is appropriate for large-scale enrichment of total flavonoids from Pteris ensiformis Burm. extracts in the food and pharmaceutical industries.

Preparation of the particles of Acanthopanax senticosus

The main objective of this study is to establish the best preparation technology of the particles of Acanthopanax senticosus. First, take the reflux extraction method extract of Acanthopanax senticosus coarse powder, optimized by orthogonal experimental method, to flavonoids flavonoids extraction extraction rate as the indexes to determine the effects of extraction temperature, ethanol concentration, extraction time on flavonoids content. Then by a wet granulation of thorn slender acanthopanax particles, taste with granules, forming rate, melting rate as index to investigate the influences of materials adding amount of granules effect. The results showed that the ethanol water heating reflux extraction method to extract the temperature of 70 deg, the percentage of ethanol 75%, extraction time 2.5 h, the highest content of total flavonoids in the extract. Join the 5 ml and 10 g in the extract of acacia honey, dextrin, starch, sugar ratio for 3:4:8, the best taste of Acanthopanax granules. In the end, the best preparation technology of the granules is established, and the process is simple, which is suitable for the large-scale production of the factory.

The antioxidative effects of bioactive products from Sargassum polycystum C. Agardh and Sargassum duplicatum J. Agardh against inflammation and other pathological issues

The present study was aimed to determine the phenol, total flavonoids and antioxidant potentials of Sargassum polycystum C. Agardh and Sargassum duplicatum J. Agardh from south east coast of Tamil Nadu and India using DPPH, phophomolybdenum and hydrogen peroxide scavenging activity. The total phenols, total flavonoids and antioxidant activities of S. polycystum and S. duplicatum were determined. Highest phenols (33.49 and 149.52 mg GAE/g) were observed in chloroform extracts of S. polycystum and methanolic extracts of S. duplicatum. The acetone extracts of S. polycystumand S. duplicatum demonstrated maximum amount of flavonoids compared to other studied extracts. Maximum amount of phosphomolybdenum reduction was observed in acetone extracts of S. polycystum and methanolic extracts of S. duplicatum. The DPPH radical scavenging activity of different extracts of S. polycystum and S. duplicatum were as follows acetone > chloroform > Petroleum ether > methanol and acetone > chloroform > methanol >Petroleum ether respectively. The H2O2 scavenging activity of S. polycystum extracts were as follows Petroleum ether extracts of S. polycystum (67.9%) > acetone (67.3%) > chloroform (58.6%) > methanol (51.78%). Acetone extracts of S. duplicatum showed maximum inhibition (90.39%) followed by petroleum ether, chloroform and methanolic extracts (75.11, 72.37 and 54.59%) respectively. The present study results confirmed the antioxidant properties of the two selected brown seaweeds viz., S. polycytum and S. duplicatum. The total phenols, flavonoids and alkaloids may be responsible for the antioxidant activities.

idaho

In this study, we aimed to evaluate the antiviral effect of total flavonoids extracted from Robinia pseudoacacia cv. idaho (RPTF) in vivo and its toxicity on rats with oral gavage. RPTF was prepared by percolation with 70% ethanol for 24 h and its antiviral effect on different kinds of viruses was evaluated in vitro by MTT staining. The long-term toxicity of RPTF on rats was evaluated through the detection of general behavior, body weight, food intake and related organ tissue sections of experimental animals. We found that RPTF produced significantly inhibitory effects on HSV-1 and EV-71 viruses with the therapeutic index TI values 113.8 and 46.2, respectively. Moreover, toxicity evaluation in vivo showed no significantly adverse effects in rats, indicating that RPTF was safe in use. In conclusion, we demonstrated that RPTF, natural compounds in the Chinese traditional medicine, could act as promising and effective antiviral therapeutics with relative safety in use.

Estimation of phytochemical constituents and in vitro antioxidant potencies of Brachychiton populneus (Schott & Endl.) R.Br

Background

Plants either in raw form or their isolated bioactive constituents are utilized as complementary and alternative medicine in various disorders. The present study was designed to evaluate chief phytochemical constituents of various fractions of Brachychiton populneus leaves and its antioxidative aptitude against free radicals.

Methods

Various fractions of B. populneus were prepared through solvent–solvent extraction technique based on their polarity and screened for phytochemical classes, total phenolic (TPC), flavonoid (TFC) and total tannin (TTC) content. Antioxidant effects of the extracts were manifested by in vitro multidimensional assays i.e. DPPH, hydroxyl radical scavenging, iron chelating, nitric oxide scavenging, β-carotene bleaching, phosphomolybdenum and reducing power assay.

Results

Qualitative screening of various fractions of B. populneus ensured the presence of alkaloids, saponins, terpenoids, phenols, tannins, triterpenoids and flavonoids. Quantitative analysis revealed that aqueous fraction (BPA) showed maximum quantity of TPC and TFC followed by BPE and BPB. In terms of IC₅₀ values BPA exhibited minimum values in all the in vitro antioxidant assays. However, the phytochemicals and yield did not accumulate in various fractions on polarity.

Conclusion

Our results indicated the presence of various polyphenolics, flavonoids, alkaloids etc. The yield of various fractions and qualitative phytochemical analysis did not correlate with polarity of solvents. Various antioxidant assays exhibited significant (p < 0.05) correlation with TPC and TFC and renders B. populneus with therapeutic potential against free-radical-associated oxidative damages and this effect was significant with BPA.

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (10.1186/s13065-019-0549-z) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

The protective effect of the flavonoid fraction of Abutilon theophrasti Medic. leaves on LPS-induced acute lung injury in mice via the NF-κB and MAPK signalling pathways

Accompanied by the damages of epithelial and capillary endothelial cell, acute lung injury is diagnosed with the typical pathological symptoms in clinic, including diffusing of pulmonary interstitial, alveolar oedema and hypoxic respiratory insufficiency. Current study focused on the investigation the anti-inflammatory action and mechanisms of total flavonoids extract (TFE) from Abutilon theophrasti Medic. leaves on ALI mice induced by LPSs. Mice were administrated intragastrically with TFE at the concentrations of 0.25, 0.5, or 1.0 g/kg for 5 days, and on last day, nasal administration of LPSs for 6 h after 30 min for intragastric administration of TFE. Pretreatment with TFE not only reduced oxidative damage but also alleviated lung edema in ALI mice. Increased secretion of pro-inflammatory cytokines TNF-α, IL-1β and IL-6, caused by LPSs was reversed by TFE; on the contrary, the anti-inflammatory cytokine IL-10 was upregulated. The proteins expressions of pro-inflammatory mediators iNOS and COX-2 induced by LPSs, were down-regulated by TFE. Moreover, the activation of NF-κB and MAPK signalling pathways was inhibited by TFE in LPSs induced ALI mice. The results revealed that the anti-inflammatory mechanisms of TFE were via inhibition of NF-κB and MAPK activation. Combined, the results suggested that TFE might exert in vivo antioxidant and anti-inflammatory functions in LPSs stimulated mice, and will be potential in adjuvant treatment in oxidative stress and inflammation diseases.

Estimated daily per capita intakes of phenolics and antioxidants from coffee in the Korean diet

This study evaluated the daily per drinker intakes of total phenolics, total flavonoids, and antioxidants from coffee in the Korean diet. Four types of coffee (instant coffee, decaffeinated instant coffee, roasted coffee, and coffee mix) were selected and analyzed. Based on the Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey in 2012, the daily intakes per coffee drinker were estimated to be 348.6 mg gallic acid equivalents for phenolics, 222.5 mg catechin equivalents for flavonoids, and 370.8 mg vitamin C equivalents (DPPH assay) or 546.7 mg vitamin C equivalents (ABTS assay) for antioxidants. Men had higher intakes of instant coffee and coffee mix, while women had a higher intake of roasted coffee. Regarding age categories, over 58% of the coffee consumers were 30-59 years old. This study revealed that, in Korea, approximately half of the people drank about 1.4 cups of roasted coffee or 2.0 cups of instant coffee every day.

in vitro and in vivo

Artemisia scoparia Waldst. et Kit. is traditionally used for the treatment of jaundice urinary retention, itching wet sores, infectious icteric hepatitis and influenza in Uighur medicine. This study aimed to further illuminate the anti-inflammatory effects and mechanism of the total flavonoids (ASTF) from Artemisia scoparia Waldst. et Kit. In vitro, RAW 264.7 cells were pretreated with ASTF 1 h before stimulation with LPS (1 μg/mL) for 24 h. Then, the concentrations of NO, PGE₂, TNF-α, IL-6 and MCP-1 in the medium were determined. Intracellular oxidative stress was detected using DCFH-DA. Immunofluorescent analysis, western blot and qRT-PCR were carried out to illuminate the mechanism of anti-inflammatory effects of ASTF. In vivo, mice were given an intragastric administration of ASTF 1 h before an intranasal administration of LPS. After 24 h, bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) was collected to measure the number of total cells, macrophage and neutrophils. The levels of TNF-α and IL-6 in BALF were quantified by ELISA kits. Lung specimens were isolated for histopathological examinations and lung wet-to-dry weight (W/D) ratio. We found that ASTF significantly inhibited the production of NO, PGE₂, TNF-α, IL-6, MCP-1 and reactive oxygen species (ROS) in LPS-stimulated RAW 264.7 cells. ASTF can obviously inhibit the degredation of IκBa and inhibit the nucleus translocations of p-NF-κB p65, p-ERK1/2 and p-p38 in RAW 264.7 cells stimulated by LPS. ASTF also markedly decreased the protein and mRNA expression of TNF-α and IL-6 in a dose-dependent manner. When pretreated with ASTF, alveolar hemorrhage and neutrophil infiltration, as well as pulmonary histopathologic changes, were substantially suppressed in lung tissues in the murine acute lung injury model. The lung wet-to-dry weight (W/D) ratio was strongly decreased. These results suggested that ASTF showed important anti-inflammatory activity and might provide protective effects against LPS-induced ALI. The anti-inflammatory effect of ASTF might attribute to its suppression of NF-κB and MAPK signaling pathway.

Foliar application of ascorbic and citric acids enhanced 'Red Spur' apple fruit quality, bioactive compounds and antioxidant activity

This study aimed to assess the effect of the foliar application of ascorbic acid (AA) and citric acid (CA) on total antioxidant activity (TAA), total phenolics, total flavonoids, total anthocyanin content, antioxidant enzymes, phenylalanine ammonialyase (PAL), and polyphenol oxidase (PPO) activities in apple 'Red Spur'. The experiment was conducted on 12-years-old trees 'Red Spur' grafted on MM₁₀₆ rootstock. The trees were sprayed with AA (0, 200 and 400 mg L^-1) and/or CA (0, 200 and 400 mg L^-1) at three different times during summer. Foliar application with AA and CA significantly (p < 0.01) enhanced all measured quality attributes and decreased the activity of PPO. Fruit from trees treated with AA at 400 mg L^-1 and CA at 200 mg L^-1 showed the highest TAA and catalase (CAT) enzyme activity. Total phenolics increased in fruits when trees were sprayed with AA and CA. Contrasting, AA treatment, CA had no significant effect on guaiacol peroxidase (G-POD). A significant decrease in PPO activity was detected in fruits when treated with both AA and CA. Both treatments significantly decreased the activity of PAL at 400 mg L^-1. Considering the results, foliar application of AA and CA, either alone or in combination improved the quality and nutraceutical properties of 'Red Spur' apple.

Pancratium triflorum Roxb. (Amaryllidaceae) and Molineria trichocarpa (Wight) N.P. Balakr (Hypoxidaceae): Cytotoxic and antioxidant activities

The present investigation was carried out to evaluate the antioxidant and cytotoxic activities of Pancratium triflorum Roxb and Molineria trichocarpa were collected from South Vagaikulam, Tirunelveli district, Tamil Nadu, India. The antioxidant activities of P. triflorum extracts were as follows with the IC₅₀ values methanol (228.13 μg/mL) > chloroform (311.33 μg/mL) > acetone (398.08 μg/mL) > petroleum ether (410.16 μg/mL). The antioxidant activities of P. triflorum and M. trichocarpa extracts were as follows with the IC₅₀ values methanol (80.93 μg/mL) > acetone (98.02 μg/mL) > chloroform (186.84 μg/mL) > petroleum ether (209.64 μg/mL). Among the various extracts of P. triflorum, methanolic extracts showed the strongest phosphomolybdenum reduction (140.56 g AA/100 g). Among the tested extracts, acetone extracts of M. trichocarpa showed maximum inhibition with 71.36 ± 5.86%. In P. triflorum, chloroform extracts showed maximum inhibition (69.51%). The petroleum ether extract of M. trichocarpa was found to be most effective at which 50% mortality (LC₅₀) and 90% mortality (LC₉₀) of brine shrimp nauplii were found to be 29.22 and 184.82 mg/mL. This study results revealed the antioxidant and cytotoxic properties of P. triflorum and M. trichocarpa. Further investigations are needed to isolate and validate the active principles of the extract responsible various pharmacological properties.

Chemical Composition of Selected Commercial Herbal Remedies in Relation to Geographical Origin and Inter-Species Diversity

Infusions prepared from medicinal herbs that are rich in flavonoids are very popular herbal remedies in societies of Eastern Europe. Therefore, the content of essential elements together with total flavonoids was analyzed in 65 commercially available samples of herbal drugs originating from Ukraine, Romania, and Belarus. The results showed that metallic elements (in mg kg^-1 d.w.) have occurred in the following order: Fe > Mn > Zn > Cu, both for total and water-extractable species. Total flavonoids were determined in the range from 10.0 to 191.8 mg g^-1 d.w. Several significant correlations have been found between the analytes, especially among water-extractable Fe with other metals, and total flavonoids and Fe, Zn, and Mn. Analysis of variance has revealed significant differences among studied samples due to their origin from different countries, especially between Belarussian samples and others. Differences owing to belonging to various plant species were also found, as it was noticed in the case of Polygoni aviculare herba in comparison with other botanical plant species. Moreover, multivariate statistical techniques, such as cluster analysis (CA) and principal component analysis (PCA) were used to gather herbal drugs based on similarity of chemical composition. CA grouped the samples into clusters with similar level of elements and total flavonoid contents, and PCA has indicated Hyperici herba, Tiliae flores, and Crataegi fructus as herbal remedies with close concentration of studied elements and flavonoids.

Chemical Profile and Anti-inflammatory Activity of Total Flavonoids from Glycyrrhiza Uralensis Fisch

Glycyrrhiza uralensis Fisch. (G. uralensis) is one of the most widely used herbal medicines. This study was designed to enrich total flavonoids (TFF) from G. uralensis. The chemical profile of TFF was identified by HPLC and colorimetric assay. The TFF mainly contained liquiritin apioside, liquiritin, isoliquiritin apioside, liquiritigenin and isoliquiritigenin without glycyrrhizic acid. To study the anti-inflammatory activity of TFF, the DMB-induced ear vasodilatation assay and carrageenan-induced rat paw edema model have been utilized. Treatment with TFF showed significant anti-inflammatory activities in the two models. The two in-vivo edema assays demonstrated that the TFF possesses significant dose-dependent anti-inflammatory activity, similar to that of indomethacin at a dose of 500 mg/kg. In rat paws with carrageenan, treatment with TFF (500 and 250 mg/kg) markedly inhibited the expression of IL-1β and iNOS. TFF at all doses noticeably decreased levels of NO and MDA at the site of inflammation, while only i.g. TFF at a dose of 500 mg/kg significantly decreased TNF-α levels in the carrageenan-injected paws. In addition, an increase in SOD activity was induced by TFF at all doses. These results revealed that TFF exhibited significant anti-inflammatory activity in acute inflammatory models.

Assessment of In Vitro Biological Activities of Anthocyanins-Rich Plant Species Based on Plinia cauliflora Study Model

Plinia cauliflora (jaboticaba) is a native fruit tree from Brazilian rainforest widely used in popular medicine to prevent diarrhea, asthma, and infections. Studies have shown that the major therapeutic potential of jaboticaba fruits is on its peel, a rich source of anthocyanins. These secondary metabolites have well-known antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities and have been claimed to be effective to treat diabetes, cancer, cardiovascular diseases, and stroke. This chapter describes a series of methodologies to evaluate important in vitro biological activities like cytotoxicity, proliferation, and migration of a hydroalcoholic extract of jaboticaba peel on mouse fibroblast L929 line. Assays to assess total phenolic, flavonoid, and anthocyanin contents and antioxidant activities are described as well.

Effect of chitosan and alginate based coatings enriched with pomegranate peel extract to extend the postharvest quality of guava (Psidium guajava L.)

The influence of chitosan (1% w/v) and alginate (2% w/v) coatings in combination with pomegranate peel extract (PPE; 1% w/v) on quality of guavas (cv Allahabad safeda) were studied. Restricted changes were recorded in respiration rate, ripening index, and instrumental colour values in case of the coated samples as compared to the control for 20days at 10°C. Samples coated with chitosan enriched with PPE (CHE) proved to be the most effective treatment in maintaining the overall fruit quality. Ascorbic acid, total phenolics, total flavonoids contents and antioxidant activity were recorded with restricted losses of 29%, 8%, 12%, 12% (DPPH) and 9% (FRAP), respectively for CHE samples at the end of storage. A higher degree of correlation (r>0.918) was established between various phytochemicals and AOA. PPE enriched coatings was proved efficient in maintaining the quality of guavas during 20days of low temperature storage.

Variability of traits and bioactive compounds in the fruit and pulp of six mamey apple (Mammea americana L.) accessions

Our objective was to compare fruit morphology, physico-chemistry and bioactive compounds content of the edible pulp of six Mammea americana accessions. The results showed that this fruit was rather big, weighing on average 600 to 1100g depending on the accession, and spherical to oblate-shaped. The pulp represented between 50 and 70% of the weight of the whole fruit. The pulp adhered only partially to the seeds in 5 of the 6 accessions studied, while the last one exhibited full adherence. The fresh pulp was acidic, sweet, succulent and crunchy. The fruits studied had a variety of qualities, providing various opportunities for post-harvest uses: fruit salads, nectar preparation, jams and jellies, or export. We have established for the first time the total phenolic compounds and total flavonoids contents in the pulp of mamey apple fruits. The pulp colour was highly correlated with total phenolic compounds and total carotenoids contents.

Ultrasound-synergized electrostatic field extraction of total flavonoids from Hemerocallis citrina baroni

The total flavonoids from Hemerocallis citrina baroni are regarded as a green and natural health care product with many beneficial impacts on human health. In this study, ultrasound-synergized electrostatic field extraction (UEE) of the total flavonoids (TF) from H. citrina was investigated. Significant independent variables of the extraction, including the electrostatic field, ultrasonic power, ethanol concentration and extraction time, were optimized using the Box-Behnken (BB) method, and the optimal extraction conditions were obtained by response surface methodology (RSM). The extraction yield using UEE was compared with the yields obtained using only ultrasound extraction (UE) and water bath extraction (WE), using a UV-vis spectrophotometer. The best extraction yield of 1.536% using UEE was achieved under the following optimal conditions: electrostatic field of 7kV, ultrasonic power of 500W, ethanol concentration of 70% and extraction time of 20min. The optimal solid-liquid ratio (1:25g/mL) and extraction temperature (55°C) were determined by single factor experiments. Compared to other extraction methods, UEE not only increases the extraction yield of TF but also exhibits an excellent antioxidant activity in assays of the scavenging capacity for DPPH, hydroxyl and superoxide anion radicals. The availability of the UEE method can be supported by the ultrasonic cavitation effect, which plays the most important role in the UEE method. The electrostatic field can be regarded as a random disturbance for sonication, which can strengthen the cavitation effect and increase the cavitation yield. Moreover, the amount of iodine release in potassium iodide solution well validated the synergetic effect between the ultrasound and electrostatic field.

Anxiolytic-Like and Sedative Effects of Alcea Aucheri (Boiss.) Alef. Flower Extract in the Laboratory Rat

The present study was conducted to investigate the possible anxiolytic and sedative of an acute administration and 4-day repeated dosing of an aqueous extract of flowers of Alcea aucheri (Boiss.) Alef. (EFA)in rats subjected to the elevated plus-maze (EPM), open-field, and horizontal wire tests. All drugs were administered intraperitoneally. Phytochemical screening confirmed the presence of phenolic compounds, flavonoids, and polysaccharides in the extract. Repeated dosing of EFA (at dose of 35 mg/kg) significantly increased percentage of time spent on open arms and of open arms entries, and also decreased percentage of time spent on closed arms and of closed arms entries; compared with saline control, 24 h after treatment. In addition, repeated dosing of EFA (at dose of 175 mg/kg) significantly increased open arm activity 48 h after treatment, versus saline group. This effect was also observed following acute administration of EFA at 175 mg/kg. In open field, acute administration of EFA at doses of 17.5, 35, 70, 175, 350, and 700 mg/kg induced a statistically significant and dose-dependent decrease in locomotor activity, compared with saline control. ED50 value for EFA-induced decrease in locomotor activity was 194 mg/kg. Furthermore, unlike diazepam; EFA didn´t decrease the percent of the rats grasping the wire. These data suggest that Alcea aucheri extract may have anxiolytic and sedative properties and some of the components in the extract such as phenolic compounds may have contributed to the observed effects.

Extraction and purification of total flavonoids from pine needles of Cedrus deodara contribute to anti-tumor in vitro

Background

Cedrus deodara is one of the traditional Chinese medicinal herbs that exhibits a line of biological activities. The current study extracted the total flavonoids from the pine needles of Cedrus deodara (TFPNCD), and investigated its anti-cancer effects in tumor cell lines.

Methods

The total flavonoids was extracted from pine needles of Cedrus deodara by ethanol hot refluxing and purified by HPD722 macroporous resin. The contents of total flavonoids and the active ingredients of TFPNCD were analyzed through UV and HPLC. MTT assay was used to investigate its inhibitory effect on tumor cell lines. The flow cytometry was employed to determine the apoptosis and cell cycle distribution after treated TFPNCD on HepG2 cells.

Results

The TFPNCD, in which the contents of total flavonoid reached up to 54.28 %, and the major ingredients of myricetin, quercetin, kaempferol and isorhamnetin in TFPNCD were 1.89, 2.01, 2.94 and 1.22 mg/g, respectively. The MTT assays demonstrated that TFPNCD inhibited the growth of HepG2 cells in a dose-dependent manner, with the IC₅₀ values of 114.12 μg/mL. By comparison, TFPNCD inhibited the proliferation to a less extent in human cervical carcinoma HeLa, gastric cancer MKN28 cells, glioma SHG-44 cells and lung carcinoma A549 than HepG2 cells. We found that even at the lower doses, the total flavonoids effectively inhibited the proliferation of HepG2 cells. Comparison of IC₅₀ values implicated that HepG2 cells might be more sensitive to the treatment with total flavonoids. TFPNCD was able to increase the population of HepG2 cells in G0 /G1 phase. Meanwhile, TFPNCD treatment increased the percentage of apoptotic HepG2 cells.

Conclusion

These data suggested that TFPNCD might have therapeutic potential in cancer through the regulation of cell cycle and apoptosis.

Optimization of ultrasound-assisted extraction of bioactive compounds from wild garlic (Allium ursinum L.)

Ultrasound-assisted extraction was used for extraction of bioactive compounds and for production of Allium ursinum liquid extract. The experiments were carried out according to tree level, four variables, face-centered cubic experimental design (FDC) combined with response surface methodology (RSM). Temperature (from 40 to 80 °C), ethanol concentration (from 30% to 70%), extraction time (from 40 to 80 min) and ultrasonic power (from 19.2 to 38.4 W/L) were investigated as independent variables in order to obtain the optimal conditions for extraction and to maximize the yield of total phenols (TP), flavonoids (TF) and antioxidant activity of obtained extracts. Experimental results were fitted to the second order polynomial model where multiple regression and analysis of variance were used to determine the fitness of the model and optimal condition for investigated responses. The predicted values of the TP (1.60 g GAE/100 g DW), TF (0.35 g CE/100 g DW), antioxidant activity, IC50 (0.71 mg/ml) and EY (38.1%) were determined at the optimal conditions for ultrasound assisted extraction: 80 °C temperature, 70% ethanol, 79.8 min and 20.06 W/L ultrasonic power. The predicted results matched well with the experimental results obtained using optimal extraction conditions which validated the RSM model with a good correlation.

Investigations of the total flavonoids extracted from flowers of Abelmoschus manihot (L.) Medic against α-naphthylisothiocyanate-induced cholestatic liver injury in rats

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY RELEVANCE

The decoction of the flowers of Abelmoschus manihot (L.) Medic was traditionally used for the treatment of jaundice and various types of chronic and acute hepatitis in Anhui and Jiangsu Provinces of China for hundreds of years. Phytochemical studies have indicated that total flavonoids extracted from flowers of A. manihot (L.) Medic (TFA) were the major constituents of the flowers. Our previous studies have investigated the hepatoprotective effects of the TFA against carbon tetrachloride (CCl4) induced hepatocyte damage in vitro and liver injury in vivo. This study aimed to investigate the protective effects and mechanisms of TFA on α-naphthylisothiocyanate (ANIT)-induced cholestatic liver injury in rats.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

The hepatoprotective activities of TFA (125, 250 and 500mg/kg) were investigated on ANIT-induced cholestatic liver injury in rats. The serum levels of alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) were used as indices of hepatic cell damage and measured. Meanwhile, the serum levels of alkaline phosphatase (ALP), gamma-glutamyltransferase (GGT), total bilirubin (TBIL), direct bilirubin (DBIL), and total bile acid (TBA) were used as indices of biliary cell damage and cholestasis and evaluated. Hepatic malondialdehyde (MDA), glutathione (GSH), superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione transferase (GST), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) and nitric oxide (NO) were measured in the liver homogenates. The bile flow in 4h was estimated and the histopathology of the liver tissue was evaluated. Furthermore, the expression of transporters, bile salt export pump (BSEP), multidrug resistance-associated protein 2 (MRP2), and Na(+)-taurocholate cotransporting polypeptide (NTCP) were studied by western blot and reverse transcription-quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) to elucidate the protective mechanisms of TFA against ANIT-induced cholestasis.

RESULTS

The oral administration of TFA to ANIT-treated rats could reduce the increases in serum levels of ALT, AST, LDH, ALP, GGT, TBIL, DBIL and TBA. Decreased bile flow by ANIT was restored with TFA treatment. Concurrent administration of TFA reduced the severity of polymorphonuclear neutrophil infiltration and other histological damages, which were consistent with the serological tests. Hepatic MDA and GSH contents in liver tissue were reduced, while SOD and GST activities, which had been suppressed by ANIT, were elevated in the groups pretreated with TFA. With TFA intervention, levels of TNF-α and NO in liver were decreased. Additionally, TFA was found to increase the expression of liver BSEP, MRP2, and NTCP in both protein and mRNA levels in ANIT-induced liver injury with cholestasis.

CONCLUSION

TFA exerted protective effects against ANIT-induced liver injury. The possible mechanisms could be related to anti-oxidative damage, anti-inflammation and regulating the expression of hepatic transporters. It layed the foundation for the further research on the mechanisms of cholestasis as well as the therapeutic effects of A. manihot (L.) Medic for the treatment of jaundice.

Evaluation of antioxidant-associated efficacy of flavonoid extracts from a traditional Chinese medicine Hua Ju Hong (peels of Citrus grandis (L.) Osbeck)

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Hua Ju Hong (HJH, peels of Citrus grandis (L.) Osbeck) is a popularly used traditional Chinese medicine recorded by "Compendium of Materia Medica" (Ben Cao Gang Mu) in Ming Dynasty of China (1578 A.D.). With flavonoid components, HJH possesses hypolipidemic effect associated with antioxidation action. However, no report was found regarding the flavonoid profile and antioxidant activity of HJH.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Five purified flavonoid extracts (TFCA, TFCB, TFCC, TFCD and TFCE.) were obtained from HJH using Ca(OH)2 and HPD-300 macroporous resins, and their total flavonoids and representative flavonoid components were analyzed. In vitro tests of DPPH free radical scavenging activity, reducing power, and total antioxidant activity of each extract were evaluated. The most effective extract was selected for in vivo antioxidative evaluation using a rat hyperlipemia model.

RESULTS

The total flavonoid content was varying among each HJH extract and decreased in an order of TFCB>TFCD>TFCC>TFCE>TFCA. TFCB, TFCD, and TFCC contained more than 50% of total flavonoids, the highest content of which was found in TFCB (80.7%). HPLC analysis showed that the contents of three flavonoid components, narirutin, naringin and neohesperidin, displayed a similar trend as that of total flavonoids. In vitro antioxidative tests determined that TFCB at 0.24 to 1.2mg/ml possessed the most significant antioxidant effects among other extracts and was also superior to BHT. In vivo experiment also revealed the significant antioxidant and antihyperlipidemic activities of TFCB started from 50 to 200mg/kg after oral administration to hyperlipemia rats. These results indicate that TFCB with the highest flavonoid contents has the strongest antioxidant-associated activities.

CONCLUSION

This is the first report regarding antioxidant-associated activities and relevant flavonoid components of HJH extracts, providing a promising candidate of traditional Chinese medicine for antioxidative treatment.

Influence of drying method on steviol glycosides and antioxidants in Stevia rebaudiana leaves

The application of different drying conditions (hot air drying at 100 °C and 180 °C, freeze drying and shade drying) on steviol glycosides (stevioside, dulcoside A, rebaudioside A and rebaudioside C) and antioxidants in Stevia leaves was evaluated. Stevioside, the major glycoside found in fresh leaves (81.2mg/g), suffered an important reduction in all cases, although shade drying was the least aggressive treatment. Considering the antioxidant parameters (total phenols, flavonoids and total antioxidants), the most suitable drying method was hot air at 180 °C, since it substantially increased all of them (76.8 mg gallic acid, 45.1mg catechin and 126 mg Trolox, all equivalent/g Stevia, respectively), with respect to those present in fresh leaves (44.4, 2.5 and 52.9 mg equivalent/g). Therefore, the ideal method for drying Stevia leaves depends on their final use (sweetener or antioxidant), although, hot air at 180 °C is the most recommendable if only one treatment has to be chosen.

Effects of flavonoids from Rosa laevigata Michx fruit against high-fat diet-induced non-alcoholic fatty liver disease in rats

The effects and mechanisms of the total flavonoids (TFs) from Rosa laevigata Michx fruit on high-fat diet-induced non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) were investigated in this study. Gavage administration of the TFs significantly decreased the relative liver weight, serum AST and ALT activities, the levels of serum lipid, LDL, blood glucose and insulin, suppressed lipid accumulation in liver, and increased serum HDL level. Moreover, the natural product significantly enhanced SOD activity, increased GSH-Px and GSH contents and decreased the concentration of MDA and CYP2E1 expression as well as prevented mitochondrial membrane potential dysfunctions and ultrastructural alterations. Further mechanism investigation indicated that the TFs inhibited hepatic lipid accumulation by suppressing the expressions of some key molecules in fatty acid synthesis pathway and promoting fatty acid β-oxidation, while not by inhibiting cholesterol synthesis. On the base of these, the TFs should be developed as a new drug for treatment of NAFLD.

Protective Effect against Hydroxyl-induced DNA Damage and Antioxidant Activity of Radix Glycyrrhizae (Liquorice Root)

PURPOSE

As a typical Chinese herbal medicine, Radix Glycyrrhizae (RG) possesses various pharmacological effects involved in antioxidant ability. However, its antioxidant has not been explored so far. The aim of the study was to investigate its antioxidant ability, then further discuss the antioxidant mechanism.

METHODS

RG was extracted by ethanol to obtain ethanolic extract of Radix Glycyrrhizae (ERG). ERG was then determined by various antioxidant methods, including DNA damage assay, DPPH assay, ABTS assay, Fe(3+)-reducing assay and Cu(2+)-reducing assay. Finally, the contents of total phenolics and total flavonoids were analyzed by spectrophotometric methods.

RESULTS

Our results revealed that ERG could effectively protect against hydroxyl-induced DNA damage (IC50 517.28±26.61μg/mL). In addition, ERG could scavenge DPPH· radical (IC50165.18±6.48μg/mL) and ABTS(+)• radical (IC507.46±0.07μg/mL), reduce Fe(3+) (IC50 97.23±2.88 μg/mL) and Cu(2+) (IC50 59.21±0.18 μg/mL). Chemical analysis demonstrated that the contents of total phenolics and flavonoids in ERG were 111.48±0.88 and 218.26±8.57 mg quercetin/g, respectively.

CONCLUSION

Radix Glycyrrhizae can effectively protect against hydroxyl-induced DNA damage. One mechanism of protective effect may be radical-scavenging which is via donating hydrogen atom (H·), donating electron (e). Its antioxidant ability can be mainly attributed to the flavonoids or total phenolics.

Improvised Rhododendron squash: processing effects on antioxidant composition and organoleptic attributes

The main objective of the present investigation was to develop an improvised method for the preparation of Rhododendron squash, which otherwise had a narrow consumer's acceptability, despite being rich in antioxidants due to faulty preparation procedure and to compare the superiority of the new method over existing preparation method by examining various antioxidants and total antioxidant capacity. For the preparation of squashes in the present investigation, Rhododendron petals were heated with water at 80 °C for 20 min and left for 3-hour (or 180 min) followed by filtration and addition of sugar with or without ginger juice. Leaving Rhododendron petals with water for 3-hour at room temperature following heating facilitated maximum recovery of anthocyanin in water. Rhododendron squashes, prepared through improvised method, were compared with a Rhododendron squash collected from the market (control) for their physico-chemical characteristics, antioxidants and sensory quality attributes. The improvised Rhododendron squashes registered higher values for most of the parameters than the control.