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Caroli C, Baron G, Cappellucci G, Brighenti V, Della Vedova L, Fraulini F, Oliaro-Bosso S, Alessandrini A, Zambon A, Lusvardi G, Aldini G, Biagi M, Corsi L, Pellati F. Extraction, purification and in vitro assessment of the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity of policosanols from non-psychoactive Cannabis sativa L. Heliyon 2024; 10:e30291. [PMID: 38737258 PMCID: PMC11088244 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e30291] [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] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2023] [Revised: 04/23/2024] [Accepted: 04/23/2024] [Indexed: 05/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Policosanols (PCs) are bioactive compounds extracted from different natural waxes. In this work, the purification, characterization and assessment of the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity was carried out on PCs from an innovative source, i.e. a waxy material from supercritical-fluid extraction (SFE) of non-psychoactive Cannabis sativa L. (hemp) inflorescences. Starting from this material, PCs were obtained by microwave-assisted trans-esterification and hydrolysis, followed by preparative liquid chromatography under normal phase conditions. The purified product was characterized using high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) with an evaporative light scattering detector (ELSD). In vitro cell-free and cell-based antioxidant and anti-inflammatory assays were then performed to assess their bioactivity. HPLC-ELSED analysis of the purified mixture from hemp wax revealed C26OH and C28OH as the main compounds. In vitro assays indicated an inhibition of intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, a reduction of nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) activation and of the activity of the neutrophil elastase. Immunoblotting assays allowed us to hypothesize the mechanism of action of the compounds of interest, given the higher levels of MAPK-activated protein kinase 2 (MK2) and heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) protein expression in the PC pretreated HaCaT cells. In conclusion, even if more research is needed to unveil other molecular mechanisms involved in hemp PC activity, the results of this work suggest that these compounds may have potential for use in oxinflammation processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Clarissa Caroli
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Via Giuseppe Campi 103-287, 41125, Modena, Italy
- Clinical and Experimental Medicine PhD Program, University of Modena and Reggio, Via Giuseppe Campi 287, 41125, Modena, Italy
| | - Giovanna Baron
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Milan, Via Mangiagalli 25, 20133, Milan, Italy
| | - Giorgio Cappellucci
- Department of Physical Sciences, Earth and Environment, University of Siena, Via Laterina, 8, 53100, Siena, Italy
| | - Virginia Brighenti
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Via Giuseppe Campi 103-287, 41125, Modena, Italy
| | - Larissa Della Vedova
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Milan, Via Mangiagalli 25, 20133, Milan, Italy
| | - Francesca Fraulini
- Department of Chemical and Geological Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Via Giuseppe Campi 103, 41125, Modena, Italy
| | - Simonetta Oliaro-Bosso
- Department of Drug Science and Technology, University of Turin, Via Pietro Giuria 9, 10125, Turin, Italy
| | - Andrea Alessandrini
- Department of Physics, Informatics and Mathematics, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Via Giuseppe Campi 213/A, 41125, Modena, Italy
- National Institute of Biostructures e Biosystems (INBB), 00136, Roma, Italy
| | - Alfonso Zambon
- Department of Chemical and Geological Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Via Giuseppe Campi 103, 41125, Modena, Italy
| | - Gigliola Lusvardi
- Department of Chemical and Geological Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Via Giuseppe Campi 103, 41125, Modena, Italy
| | - Giancarlo Aldini
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Milan, Via Mangiagalli 25, 20133, Milan, Italy
| | - Marco Biagi
- Department of Food and Drug, University of Parma, Parco Area delle Scienze 27/A, 43124, Parma, Italy
| | - Lorenzo Corsi
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Via Giuseppe Campi 103-287, 41125, Modena, Italy
- National Institute of Biostructures e Biosystems (INBB), 00136, Roma, Italy
| | - Federica Pellati
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Via Giuseppe Campi 103-287, 41125, Modena, Italy
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Governa P, Biagi M, Manetti F, Forli S. Consensus screening for a challenging target: the quest for P-glycoprotein inhibitors. RSC Med Chem 2024; 15:720-732. [PMID: 38389870 PMCID: PMC10880898 DOI: 10.1039/d3md00649b] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2023] [Accepted: 01/18/2024] [Indexed: 02/24/2024] Open
Abstract
ATP-binding cassette (ABC) transporters are a large family of proteins involved in membrane transport of a wide variety of substrates. Among them, ABCB1, also known as MDR-1 or P-glycoprotein (P-gp), is the most characterized. By exporting xenobiotics out of the cell, P-gp activity can affect the ADME properties of several drugs. Moreover, P-gp has been found to mediate multidrug resistance in cancer cells. Thus, the inhibition of P-gp activity may lead to increased absorption and/or intracellular accumulation of co-administered drugs, enhancing their effectiveness. Using the human-mouse chimeric cryoEM 3D structure of the P-gp in the inhibitor-bound intermediate form (PDBID: 6qee), approximately 200 000 commercially available natural compounds from the ZINC database were virtually screened. To build a model able to discriminate between substrate and inhibitors, two datasets of compounds with known activity, including P-gp inhibitors, substrates, and inactive molecules were also docked. The best docking pose of selected substrates and inhibitors were used to generate 3D common feature pharmacophoric models that were combined with the Autodock Vina binding energy values to prioritize compounds for visual inspection. With this consensus approach, 13 potential candidates were identified and then tested for their ability to inhibit P-gp, using zosuquidar, a third generation P-gp inhibitor, as a reference drug. Eight compounds were found to be active with 6 of them having an IC50 lower than 5 μM in a membrane-based ATPase activity assay. Moreover, the P-gp inhibitory activity was also confirmed by two different cell-based in vitro methods. Both retrospective and prospective results demonstrate the ability of the combined structure-based pharmacophore modeling and docking-based virtual screening approach to predict novel hit compounds with inhibitory activity toward P-gp. The resulting chemical scaffolds could serve as inspiration for the optimization of novel and more potent P-gp inhibitors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paolo Governa
- Department of Integrative Structural and Computational Biology, Scripps Research Institute La Jolla CA 92037 USA
- Department of Biotechnology, Chemistry and Pharmacy, University of Siena 53100 Siena Italy
| | - Marco Biagi
- Department of Food and Drug, University of Parma 43121 Parma Italy
| | - Fabrizio Manetti
- Department of Biotechnology, Chemistry and Pharmacy, University of Siena 53100 Siena Italy
| | - Stefano Forli
- Department of Integrative Structural and Computational Biology, Scripps Research Institute La Jolla CA 92037 USA
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3
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Cappellucci G, Baini G, Miraldi E, Pauletto L, De Togni H, Raso F, Biagi M. Investigation on the Efficacy of Two Food Supplements Containing a Fixed Combination of Selected Probiotics and β-Glucans or Elderberry Extract for the Immune System: Modulation on Cytokines Expression in Human THP-1 and PBMC. Foods 2024; 13:458. [PMID: 38338593 PMCID: PMC10855234 DOI: 10.3390/foods13030458] [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: 12/29/2023] [Revised: 01/29/2024] [Accepted: 01/30/2024] [Indexed: 02/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Several herbal and other natural products are used as ingredients in food supplements to strengthen immunity even if, very often, marketed products are proposed without a clear rationale or experimental evidence. In this study, we aimed to investigate the effect on human monocytes (THP-1) and on ex vivo human peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) of two formulations, one containing Bifidobacterium animalis subsp. lactis Bl-04® with β-glucans (for adults) and one containing Lactobacillus rhamnosus CRL1505 with elderberry extract (for children). We compared formulations with single ingredients, with bacterial lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and the drug pidotimod; cytokines expression level was evaluated testing different concentrations of samples at two exposure times. As expected, LPS caused a non-specific huge upregulation of cytokines expression both in THP-1 and in PBMC, whereas pidotimod mainly upregulated IL-2 in PBMC and IL-8 in THP-1. The two formulations showed a difference between a pro-inflammatory stimulus such as LPS, and also from an immunostimulant drug, such as pidotimod, as they mainly upregulated the expression of IL-6 and IL-10 in PBMC but not in THP-1, in a concentration-dependent mode. Probiotics were shown to play a major role, but β-glucans and elderberry extract exerted a synergistic activity. This work demonstrated that combining selected probiotics with other natural products having immunomodulatory properties is an interesting strategy to develop innovative formulations in the sector of food supplements.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giorgio Cappellucci
- Department of Physics, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy; (G.C.); (G.B.); (E.M.)
| | - Giulia Baini
- Department of Physics, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy; (G.C.); (G.B.); (E.M.)
| | - Elisabetta Miraldi
- Department of Physics, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy; (G.C.); (G.B.); (E.M.)
| | - Lara Pauletto
- Scientific Affairs Department Schwabe Pharma Italia, 39044 Egna, Italy; (L.P.); (H.D.T.); (F.R.)
| | - Heide De Togni
- Scientific Affairs Department Schwabe Pharma Italia, 39044 Egna, Italy; (L.P.); (H.D.T.); (F.R.)
| | - Floriana Raso
- Scientific Affairs Department Schwabe Pharma Italia, 39044 Egna, Italy; (L.P.); (H.D.T.); (F.R.)
| | - Marco Biagi
- Department of Food and Drug, University of Parma, 43124 Parma, Italy
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Governa P, Romagnoli G, Albanese P, Rossi F, Manetti F, Biagi M. Effect of in vitro simulated digestion on the anti- Helicobacter Pylori activity of different Propolis extracts. J Enzyme Inhib Med Chem 2023; 38:2183810. [PMID: 36916299 PMCID: PMC10026752 DOI: 10.1080/14756366.2023.2183810] [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] [Indexed: 03/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Helicobacter pylori (HP) is among the most common pathogens causing infection in humans worldwide. Oxidative stress and gastric inflammation are involved in the progression of HP-related gastric diseases, and they can be targeted by integrating conventional antibiotic treatment with polyphenol-enriched natural products. In this work, we characterised three different propolis extracts and evaluated their stability under in vitro simulated gastric digestion, compared to their main constituents alone. The extract with the highest stability to digestion (namely, the dark propolis extract, DPE) showed a minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) lower than 1 mg/mL on HP strains with different virulence factors. Finally, since urease is one of the virulence factors contributing to the establishment of a microenvironment that promotes HP infection, we evaluated the possible inhibition of this enzyme by using molecular docking simulations and in vitro colorimetric assay, showing that galangin and pinocembrin may be involved in this activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paolo Governa
- Department of Biotechnology, Chemistry and Pharmacy, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Giulia Romagnoli
- Department of Biotechnology, Chemistry and Pharmacy, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Paola Albanese
- Department of Physical Sciences, Earth and Environment, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Federico Rossi
- Department of Physical Sciences, Earth and Environment, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Fabrizio Manetti
- Department of Biotechnology, Chemistry and Pharmacy, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Marco Biagi
- Department of Physical Sciences, Earth and Environment, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
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5
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Sambù A, Cornara L, Catarino L, Indjai B, Biagi M, Giordani P. Medical Ethnobotany of the Bissau-Guinean Community of Migrants Living in Northern Italy and Comparison with the Ethnopharmacology of Guinea-Bissau. Plants (Basel) 2023; 12:plants12091909. [PMID: 37176967 PMCID: PMC10181441 DOI: 10.3390/plants12091909] [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: 04/03/2023] [Revised: 05/03/2023] [Accepted: 05/05/2023] [Indexed: 05/15/2023]
Abstract
This study compares the knowledge of medicinal plants of Bissau-Guinean migrants now established in Italy with the ethnopharmacology still present in their country of origin. We also investigated how traditional ethnobotanical knowledge is changing following the phenomenon of migration from Africa to Europe. The ethnobotanical data were collected during 2017-2018, by interviewing 49 informants belonging to 8 ethnic groups, living in 8 provinces of northern Italy. The final inventory of botanical taxa included 81 species belonging to 34 families, with Fabaceae and Malvaceae the most represented, followed by Euphorbiaceae, Apocynaceae, Combretaceae, and Solanaceae. Plant remedies were used to treat 21 ailment categories, such as fever, internal infections, intestinal and respiratory problems, and pains. The traditional ethnobotanical knowledge of Bissau-Guinean migrants in Italy was associated with gender, with women showing the highest knowledge. In addition, a negative relationship was observed between the maintenance of this knowledge and the number of years migrants have spent in Italy. Overall, a loss of knowledge was observed in the less numerous ethnic groups. However, traditional preparations based on plants from the country of origin are in general well preserved to maintain a good state of health. Our work could help in transferring to the next generation the cultural heritage of Bissau-Guinean people permanently moved to European Countries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alfredo Sambù
- Department of Physical, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of Siena, Strada Laterina 8, 53100 Siena, Italy
| | - Laura Cornara
- Department of Earth, Environment and Life Sciences, University of Genova, 16132 Genova, Italy
| | - Luís Catarino
- Centre for Ecology, Evolution and Environmental Changes (cE3c) & CHANGE-Global Change and Sustainability Institute, Faculdade de Ciências, Universidade de Lisboa, 1749-016 Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Bucar Indjai
- INEP-Instituto Nacional de Estudos e Pesquisa, C.P. 112 Bissau, Guinea-Bissau
- CEF-Centro de Estudos Florestais, Instituto Superior de Agronomia (ISA), Universidade de Lisboa, 1349-017 Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Marco Biagi
- Department of Physical, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of Siena, Strada Laterina 8, 53100 Siena, Italy
| | - Paolo Giordani
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Genova, 16148 Genova, Italy
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6
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Borgonetti V, Biagi M, Galeotti N, Manetti F, Governa P. Investigation on the neuroprotective effect of a cannabidiol-enriched non-psychotropic Cannabis sativa L. extract in an in vitro model of excitotoxicity. Fitoterapia 2022; 163:105315. [PMID: 36179898 DOI: 10.1016/j.fitote.2022.105315] [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] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2022] [Revised: 09/19/2022] [Accepted: 09/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to evaluate the neuroprotective effect of a cannabidiol-enriched non-psychotropic Cannabis sativa L. extract (CSE) and its main constituents, cannabidiol and β-caryophyllene. An in vitro model of glutamate-induced neuronal excitotoxicity using SH-SY5Y cells was optimized. The impact of CSE on glutamate-impaired cell viability, brain-derived neurotrophic factor release, CB1 protein expression, and ERK levels was evaluated. The involvement of CB1 modulation was verified by the cotreatment with the CB1 antagonist AM4113. CSE was able to significantly protect SH-SY5Y from glutamate-impaired cell viability, and to counteract the changes in brain-derived neurotrophic factor levels, with a mechanism of action involving ERK modulation. Moreover, CSE completely reversed the reduction of CB1 receptor expression induced by glutamate, and the presence of the CB1 antagonist AM4113 reduced CSE effectiveness, suggesting that CBr play a role in the modulation of neuronal excitotoxicity. This work demonstrated the in vitro effectiveness of CSE as a neuroprotective agent, proposing the whole cannabis phytocomplex as a more effective strategy, compared to its main constituents alone, and suggested further investigations by using more complex cell models before moving to in vivo studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vittoria Borgonetti
- Department of Neuroscience, Psychology, Pharmacology and Child Health (NEUROFARBA), University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Marco Biagi
- Department of Physical Sciences, Earth and Environment, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Nicoletta Galeotti
- Department of Neuroscience, Psychology, Pharmacology and Child Health (NEUROFARBA), University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Fabrizio Manetti
- Department of Biotechnology, Chemistry and Pharmacy, Department of Excellence 2018-2022, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Paolo Governa
- Department of Biotechnology, Chemistry and Pharmacy, Department of Excellence 2018-2022, University of Siena, Siena, Italy.
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7
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Borgonetti V, Benatti C, Governa P, Isoldi G, Pellati F, Alboni S, Tascedda F, Montopoli M, Galeotti N, Manetti F, Miraldi E, Biagi M, Rigillo G. Non-psychotropic Cannabis sativa L. phytocomplex modulates microglial inflammatory response through CB2 receptors-, endocannabinoids-, and NF-κB-mediated signaling. Phytother Res 2022; 36:2246-2263. [PMID: 35393641 PMCID: PMC9325551 DOI: 10.1002/ptr.7458] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [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: 06/13/2021] [Revised: 12/27/2021] [Accepted: 01/12/2022] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Cannabis sativa L. is increasingly emerging for its protective role in modulating neuroinflammation, a complex process orchestrated among others by microglia, the resident immune cells of the central nervous system. Phytocannabinoids, especially cannabidiol (CBD), terpenes, and other constituents trigger several upstream and downstream microglial intracellular pathways. Here, we investigated the molecular mechanisms of a CBD- and terpenes-enriched C. sativa extract (CSE) in an in vitro model of neuroinflammation. We evaluated the effect of CSE on the inflammatory response induced by exposure to lipopolysaccharide (LPS) in BV-2 microglial cells, compared with CBD and β-caryophyllene (CAR), CB2 receptors (CB2r) inverse and full agonist, respectively. The LPS-induced upregulation of the pro-inflammatory cytokines IL-1β, IL-6, and TNF-α was significantly attenuated by CSE and only partially by CBD, whereas CAR was ineffective. In BV-2 cells, these anti-inflammatory effects exerted by CSE phytocomplex were only partially dependent on CB2r modulation and they were mediated by the regulation of enzymes responsible for the endocannabinoids metabolism, by the inhibition of reactive oxygen species release and the modulation of JNK/p38 cascade with consequent NF-κB p65 nuclear translocation suppression. Our data suggest that C. sativa phytocomplex and its multitarget mechanism could represent a novel therapeutic strategy for neuroinflammatory-related diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vittoria Borgonetti
- Department of Neuroscience, Psychology, Drug Research and Child Health (NEUROFARBA), Section of Pharmacology, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Cristina Benatti
- Center for Neuroscience and Neurotechnology, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy.,Department of Life Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Paolo Governa
- Department of Biotechnology, Chemistry and Pharmacy (Department of Excellence 2018-2022), University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | | | - Federica Pellati
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Silvia Alboni
- Center for Neuroscience and Neurotechnology, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy.,Department of Life Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Fabio Tascedda
- Center for Neuroscience and Neurotechnology, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy.,Department of Life Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy.,Consorzio Interuniversitario Biotecnologie, Trieste, Italy
| | - Monica Montopoli
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
| | - Nicoletta Galeotti
- Department of Neuroscience, Psychology, Drug Research and Child Health (NEUROFARBA), Section of Pharmacology, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Fabrizio Manetti
- Department of Biotechnology, Chemistry and Pharmacy (Department of Excellence 2018-2022), University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Elisabetta Miraldi
- Department of Physical Sciences, Earth and Environment, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Marco Biagi
- Department of Physical Sciences, Earth and Environment, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Giovanna Rigillo
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
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8
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Sberna G, Biagi M, Marafini G, Nardacci R, Biava M, Colavita F, Piselli P, Miraldi E, D'Offizi G, Capobianchi MR, Amendola A. In vitro Evaluation of Antiviral Efficacy of a Standardized Hydroalcoholic Extract of Poplar Type Propolis Against SARS-CoV-2. Front Microbiol 2022; 13:799546. [PMID: 35350622 PMCID: PMC8958028 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2022.799546] [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] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2021] [Accepted: 01/27/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Except for specific vaccines and monoclonal antibodies, effective prophylactic or post-exposure therapeutic treatments are currently limited for COVID-19. Propolis, a honeybee’s product, has been suggested as a potential candidate for treatment of COVID-19 for its immunomodulatory properties and for its powerful activity against various types of viruses, including common coronaviruses. However, direct evidence regarding the antiviral activities of this product still remains poorly documented. VERO E6 and CALU3 cell lines were infected with SARS-CoV-2 and cultured in the presence of 12.5 or 25 μg/ml of a standardized Hydroalcoholic Extract acronym (sHEP) of Eurasian poplar type propolis and analyzed for viral RNA transcription, for cell damage by optical and electron microscopy, and for virus infectivity by viral titration at 2, 24, 48, and 72 h post-infection. The three main components of sHEP, caffeic acid phenethyl ester, galangin, and pinocembrin, were tested for the antiviral power, either alone or in combination. On both cell lines, sHEP showed significant effects mainly on CALU3 up to 48 h, i.e., some protection from cytopathic effects and consistent reduction of infected cell number, fewer viral particles inside cellular vesicles, reduction of viral titration in supernatants, dramatic drop of N gene negative sense RNA synthesis, and lower concentration of E gene RNA in cell extracts. Interestingly, pre-treatment of cells with sHEP before virus inoculation induced these same effects described previously and was not able to block virus entry. When used in combination, the three main constituents of sHEP showed antiviral activity at the same levels of sHEP. sHEP has a remarkable ability to hinder the replication of SARS-CoV-2, to limit new cycles of infection, and to protect host cells against the cytopathic effect, albeit with rather variable results. However, sHEP do not block the virus entry into the cells. The antiviral activity observed with the three main components of sHEP used in combination highlights that the mechanism underlying the antiviral activity of sHEP is probably the result of a synergistic effect. These data add further emphasis on the possible therapeutic role of this special honeybee’s product as an adjuvant to official treatments of COVID-19 patients for its direct antiviral activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giuseppe Sberna
- Laboratory of Virology, National Institute for Infectious Diseases INMI, "Lazzaro Spallanzani" Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico (IRCCS), Rome, Italy
| | - Marco Biagi
- Department of Physical Sciences, Earth and Environment, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Giovanni Marafini
- Laboratory of Virology, National Institute for Infectious Diseases INMI, "Lazzaro Spallanzani" Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico (IRCCS), Rome, Italy
| | - Roberta Nardacci
- Laboratory of Virology, National Institute for Infectious Diseases INMI, "Lazzaro Spallanzani" Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico (IRCCS), Rome, Italy.,Clinical Department, National Institute for Infectious Diseases INMI, "Lazzaro Spallanzani" Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico (IRCCS), Rome, Italy
| | - Mirella Biava
- Laboratory of Virology, National Institute for Infectious Diseases INMI, "Lazzaro Spallanzani" Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico (IRCCS), Rome, Italy
| | - Francesca Colavita
- Laboratory of Virology, National Institute for Infectious Diseases INMI, "Lazzaro Spallanzani" Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico (IRCCS), Rome, Italy
| | - Pierluca Piselli
- Epidemiology Department, National Institute for Infectious Diseases INMI, "Lazzaro Spallanzani" Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico (IRCCS), Rome, Italy
| | - Elisabetta Miraldi
- Department of Physical Sciences, Earth and Environment, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Gianpiero D'Offizi
- Clinical Department, National Institute for Infectious Diseases INMI, "Lazzaro Spallanzani" Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico (IRCCS), Rome, Italy.,Saint Camillus International University of Health Sciences, Rome, Italy
| | - Maria Rosaria Capobianchi
- Laboratory of Virology, National Institute for Infectious Diseases INMI, "Lazzaro Spallanzani" Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico (IRCCS), Rome, Italy.,Saint Camillus International University of Health Sciences, Rome, Italy
| | - Alessandra Amendola
- Laboratory of Virology, National Institute for Infectious Diseases INMI, "Lazzaro Spallanzani" Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico (IRCCS), Rome, Italy
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9
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Minoretti P, Biagi M, Emanuele E. An open-label study on the short-term effects of a novel EFSA-compliant nutraceutical combination in mild-to-moderate hypercholesterolemia. Avicenna J Phytomed 2022; 12:559-565. [PMID: 36583178 PMCID: PMC9768856 DOI: 10.22038/ajp.2022.20662] [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] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2021] [Revised: 03/16/2022] [Accepted: 04/03/2022] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Objective Recently, the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) has recommended to limit the use of total monacolins in red yeast rice (RYR) products to a dose <3 mg/day. However, data concerning the lipid lowering efficacy of the reduced dosage remain limited. A monacolin dose reduced due to safety issues may be expected to be less effective as a lipid lowering strategy and, for this reason, nutraceutical combinations with other active compounds may offer a viable solution as they can act synergistically through different mechanisms. Materials and Methods This 8-week open-label study was designed to investigate the safety and efficacy of a novel ESFA-compliant lipid lowering nutraceutical combination (Colestarmony Plus®; containing total monacolins from RYR at a dose of 2.9 mg/day, a highly bioavailable berberine formulation, and pomegranate extract) in subjects (n=40) with mild-to-moderate hypercholesterolemia and no history of cardiovascular disease. Results After 8 weeks of supplementation, Colestarmony Plus® significantly reduced total cholesterol (-10.4%, p<0.05), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (-14.8%, p<0.05), oxidized low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (-12.0%, p<0.05), and high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (-14.0%, p<0.05) compared with baseline values. A subgroup of 22 patients underwent measurements of flow-mediated dilation, with values increasing by 18.0% at 8 weeks with respect to baseline (p<0.05). The supplement was generally well-tolerated. Conclusion Our short-term results indicate that the tested ESFA-compliant nutraceutical is effective in a primary prevention setting, even by providing only <3 mg/day of monacolins.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Marco Biagi
- Department of Environment, Earth and Physical Sciences, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Enzo Emanuele
- 2E Science, Robbio (PV), Italy,Corresponding Author: Tel: +393385054463,
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Borgonetti V, Governa P, Manetti F, Miraldi E, Biagi M, Galeotti N. A honokiol-enriched Magnolia officinalis Rehder & E.H. Wilson. bark extract possesses anxiolytic-like activity with neuroprotective effect through the modulation of CB1 receptor. J Pharm Pharmacol 2021; 73:1161-1168. [PMID: 33950239 DOI: 10.1093/jpp/rgab067] [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: 01/19/2021] [Accepted: 04/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The exposure of neurons to an excessive excitatory stimulation induces the alteration of the normal neuronal function. Mood disorders are among the first signs of alterations in the central nervous system function. Magnolia officinalis bark extract has been extensively used in the traditional medicine systems of several countries, showing several pharmacological activities. Honokiol, the main constituent of M. officinalis, is a GABA modulator and a CB1 agonist, which is deeply investigated for its role in modulating mood disorders. METHODS Thus, we evaluated the possible neuroprotective effect of a standardized M. officinalis bark extract (MOE), enriched in honokiol, and its effect on animal mood behavioural tests and in an in vitro model of excitotoxicity. KEY FINDINGS MOE showed neuroprotective effect using SH-SY5Y cells, by normalizing brain-derived neurotrophic factor release. Then, we tested the effect of MOE in different behavioural tests evaluating anxiety and depression and we observed a selective anxiolytic-like effect. Finally, we confirmed the involvement of CB1 in the final effect of MOE by the co-administration of the CB1 antagonist, AM251. CONCLUSION These results suggest that MOE could be considered an effective and safe anxiolytic candidate with neuroprotective activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vittoria Borgonetti
- Department of Neuroscience, Psychology, Drug Research and Child Health (NEUROFARBA), Section of Pharmacology, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Paolo Governa
- Department of Biotechnology, Chemistry and Pharmacy - Department of Excellence 2018-2022, University of Siena Siena, Italy
| | - Fabrizio Manetti
- Department of Biotechnology, Chemistry and Pharmacy - Department of Excellence 2018-2022, University of Siena Siena, Italy
| | - Elisabetta Miraldi
- Department of Physical Sciences, Earth and Environment, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Marco Biagi
- Department of Physical Sciences, Earth and Environment, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Nicoletta Galeotti
- Department of Neuroscience, Psychology, Drug Research and Child Health (NEUROFARBA), Section of Pharmacology, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
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Cocetta V, Governa P, Borgonetti V, Tinazzi M, Peron G, Catanzaro D, Berretta M, Biagi M, Manetti F, Dall'Acqua S, Montopoli M. Cannabidiol Isolated From Cannabis sativa L. Protects Intestinal Barrier From In Vitro Inflammation and Oxidative Stress. Front Pharmacol 2021; 12:641210. [PMID: 33995048 PMCID: PMC8115937 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2021.641210] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [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] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2020] [Accepted: 04/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
The relevance and incidence of intestinal bowel diseases (IBD) have been increasing over the last 50 years and the current therapies are characterized by severe side effects, making essential the development of new strategies that combine efficacy and safety in the management of human IBD. Herbal products are highly considered in research aimed at discovering new approaches for IBD therapy and, among others, Cannabis sativa L. has been traditionally used for centuries as an analgesic and anti-inflammatory remedy also in different gastrointestinal disorders. This study aims to investigate the effects of different C. sativa isolated compounds in an in vitro model of intestinal epithelium. The ability of treatments to modulate markers of intestinal dysfunctions was tested on Caco-2 intestinal cell monolayers. Our results, obtained by evaluation of ROS production, TEER and paracellular permeability measurements and tight junctions evaluation show Cannabidiol as the most promising compound against intestinal inflammatory condition. Cannabidiol is able to inhibit ROS production and restore epithelial permeability during inflammatory and oxidative stress conditions, suggesting its possible application as adjuvant in IBD management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Veronica Cocetta
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Paolo Governa
- Department of Biotechnology, Chemistry and Pharmacy Department of Excellence 2018-2022, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Vittoria Borgonetti
- Department of Neuroscience, Psychology, Drug Research and Child Health (NEUROFARBA), Section of Pharmacology, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Mattia Tinazzi
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Gregorio Peron
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Daniela Catanzaro
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Massimiliano Berretta
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Marco Biagi
- Department of Physical Sciences, Earth and Environment, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Fabrizio Manetti
- Department of Biotechnology, Chemistry and Pharmacy Department of Excellence 2018-2022, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Stefano Dall'Acqua
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Monica Montopoli
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Padova, Padova, Italy.,Veneto Institute of Molecular Medicine, VIMM, Padova, Italy
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Lamponi S, Baratto MC, Miraldi E, Baini G, Biagi M. Chemical Profile, Antioxidant, Anti-Proliferative, Anticoagulant and Mutagenic Effects of a Hydroalcoholic Extract of Tuscan Rosmarinus officinalis. Plants (Basel) 2021; 10:plants10010097. [PMID: 33418860 PMCID: PMC7825123 DOI: 10.3390/plants10010097] [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] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2020] [Revised: 12/25/2020] [Accepted: 12/31/2020] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
This study aimed to characterize the chemical profile of an ethanolic extract of Tuscan Rosmarinus officinalis (Roex) and to determine its in vitro bioactivity. The content of phenolic and flavonoid compounds, hydroxycinnamic acids and triterpenoids was determined, and high-performance liquid chromatography-diode array detection (HPLC-DAD) analysis revealed that rosmarinic acid and other hydroxycinnamic derivatives were the main constituents of the extract. Roex demonstrated to have both antioxidant activity and the capability to scavenge hydrogen peroxide in a concentration dependent manner. Moreover, NIH3T3 mouse fibroblasts and human breast adenocarcinoma cells MDA-MB-231 viability was influenced by the extract with an IC50 of 2.4 × 10-1 mg/mL and 4.8 × 10-1 mg/mL, respectively. The addition of Roex to the culture medium of both the above cell lines, resulted also in the reduction of cell death after H2O2 pre-treatment. The Ames test demonstrated that Roex was not genotoxic towards both TA98 and TA100 strains, with and without S9 metabolic activation. The extract, by inactivating thrombin, showed to also have an anti-coagulating effect at low concentration values. All these biological activities exerted by Roex are tightly correlated to its phytochemical profile, rich in bioactive compounds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefania Lamponi
- Department of Biotechnologies, Chemistry and Pharmacy, University of Siena, Via Aldo Moro 2, 53100 Siena, Italy;
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-0577-234386; Fax: +39-0577-234254
| | - Maria Camilla Baratto
- Department of Biotechnologies, Chemistry and Pharmacy, University of Siena, Via Aldo Moro 2, 53100 Siena, Italy;
| | - Elisabetta Miraldi
- Department of Physical Sciences, Earth and Environment, University of Siena, Strada Laterina 8, 53100 Siena, Italy; (E.M.); (G.B.); (M.B.)
| | - Giulia Baini
- Department of Physical Sciences, Earth and Environment, University of Siena, Strada Laterina 8, 53100 Siena, Italy; (E.M.); (G.B.); (M.B.)
| | - Marco Biagi
- Department of Physical Sciences, Earth and Environment, University of Siena, Strada Laterina 8, 53100 Siena, Italy; (E.M.); (G.B.); (M.B.)
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Finetti F, Biagi M, Ercoli J, Macrì G, Miraldi E, Trabalzini L. Phaseolus vulgaris L. var. Venanzio Grown in Tuscany: Chemical Composition and In Vitro Investigation of Potential Effects on Colorectal Cancer. Antioxidants (Basel) 2020; 9:antiox9121181. [PMID: 33256057 PMCID: PMC7760357 DOI: 10.3390/antiox9121181] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [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: 09/09/2020] [Revised: 11/13/2020] [Accepted: 11/24/2020] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Phaseolus vulgaris L. (common bean) is a leguminous species that is an important dietary component due to its high content of proteins, unsaturated fatty acids, minerals, dietary fibers and vitamins. Due to the high content of polyphenols, several biological activities have been described for bean extracts, making it possible to include P. vulgaris among food with beneficial effects for human health. Moreover, more than 40,000 varieties of beans have been recognised with different nutraceutical properties, pointing out the importance of food biodiversity. In this work, we describe for the first time the chemical composition and biological activity of a newly recognized Italian variety of P. vulgaris grown in a restricted area of the Tuscany region and named “Fagiola di Venanzio”. Fagiola di Venanzio water extract is rich in proteins, sugars and polyphenols and displays antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and antiproliferative activities in in vitro assays on colon cancer cellular models. Our data indicate that this variety of P. vulgaris appears to be a promising source of bioactive compounds and encourage more in-depth studies to better elucidate the implications of its consumption for public health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Federica Finetti
- Department of Biotechnology, Chemistry and Pharmacy, University of Siena, Via Aldo Moro 2, 53100 Siena, Italy; (J.E.); (G.M.)
- Correspondence: (F.F.); (L.T.)
| | - Marco Biagi
- Department of Physical Sciences, Earth and Environment, University of Siena, Via Laterina 8, 53100 Siena, Italy; (M.B.); (E.M.)
| | - Jasmine Ercoli
- Department of Biotechnology, Chemistry and Pharmacy, University of Siena, Via Aldo Moro 2, 53100 Siena, Italy; (J.E.); (G.M.)
| | - Giulia Macrì
- Department of Biotechnology, Chemistry and Pharmacy, University of Siena, Via Aldo Moro 2, 53100 Siena, Italy; (J.E.); (G.M.)
| | - Elisabetta Miraldi
- Department of Physical Sciences, Earth and Environment, University of Siena, Via Laterina 8, 53100 Siena, Italy; (M.B.); (E.M.)
| | - Lorenza Trabalzini
- Department of Biotechnology, Chemistry and Pharmacy, University of Siena, Via Aldo Moro 2, 53100 Siena, Italy; (J.E.); (G.M.)
- Correspondence: (F.F.); (L.T.)
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Borgonetti V, Governa P, Biagi M, Pellati F, Galeotti N. Zingiber officinale Roscoe rhizome extract alleviates neuropathic pain by inhibiting neuroinflammation in mice. Phytomedicine 2020; 78:153307. [PMID: 32846405 DOI: 10.1016/j.phymed.2020.153307] [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] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2020] [Revised: 08/10/2020] [Accepted: 08/18/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Current therapies for neuropathic pain are generally symptomatic and possess several side effects, limiting their prolonged usage. HYPOTHESIS/PURPOSE Thus, it is urgent to develop novel and safe candidates for the management of this chronical condition. For this purpose, we investigated the analgesic effect of a standardized extract from Zingiber officinale Roscoe rhizomes (ZOE) obtained by CO2 supercritical extraction, in a mice model of peripheral neuropathy. We also explored the mechanism of action of ZOE and its main constituents using an in vitro model of neuroinflammation. METHODS Peripheral mono-neuropathy was induced in mice, by spared nerve injury (SNI). The analgesic effect of ZOE after oral administration was assessed by measuring mechanical and thermal allodynia in SNI mice. The mechanism of action of ZOE and its main constituents were investigated using spinal cords samples and in an in vitro model of neuroinflammation by ELISA, western blotting and immunofluorescence techniques. RESULTS Oral administration of ZOE 200 mg kg-1 ameliorated mechanical and thermal allodynia in SNI mice, with a rapid and a long-lasting effect. ZOE did not alter locomotor activity. In BV2 cells and spinal cord samples, ZOE, 6-gingerol and 6-shogaol reduced pERK levels, whereas ZOE and terpene fraction reduced HDAC1 protein levels, inhibited NF-κB signalling activation and decreased IL-1β, TNF-α and IL-6 release. ZOE and each tested constituent had a positive effect on inflammation-impaired SH-SY5Y cell viability. CONCLUSIONS The oral administration of ZOE attenuated SNI-induced neuropathic pain symptoms by reducing spinal neuroinflammation, suggesting ZOE as a novel and interesting candidate for the management of neuropathic pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vittoria Borgonetti
- Department of Neuroscience, Psychology, Drug Research and Child Health (NEUROFARBA), Section of Pharmacology, University of Florence, Viale G. Pieraccini 6, 50139 Florence, Italy
| | - Paolo Governa
- Department of Biotechnology, Chemistry and Pharmacy - Department of Excellence 2018-2022, University of Siena, Via Aldo Moro 2, 53100 Siena, Italy
| | - Marco Biagi
- Department of Physical Sciences, Earth and Environment, University of Siena, Strada Laterina 8, 53100 Siena, Italy
| | - Federica Pellati
- Department of Life Science, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Via G. Campi 103, 41125 Modena, Italy
| | - Nicoletta Galeotti
- Department of Neuroscience, Psychology, Drug Research and Child Health (NEUROFARBA), Section of Pharmacology, University of Florence, Viale G. Pieraccini 6, 50139 Florence, Italy,.
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Biagi M, Vialichka A, Jurkovic M, Wu T, Shajee A, Lee M, Patel S, Mendes RE, Wenzler E. Activity of Cefiderocol Alone and in Combination with Levofloxacin, Minocycline, Polymyxin B, or Trimethoprim-Sulfamethoxazole against Multidrug-Resistant Stenotrophomonas maltophilia. Antimicrob Agents Chemother 2020; 64:e00559-20. [PMID: 32571820 PMCID: PMC7449157 DOI: 10.1128/aac.00559-20] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2020] [Accepted: 06/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
The production of an L1 metallo-β-lactamase and an L2 serine active-site β-lactamase precludes the use of β-lactams for the treatment of Stenotrophomonas maltophilia infections. Preclinical data suggest that cefiderocol is the first approved β-lactam with reliable activity against S. maltophilia, but data on strains resistant to current first-line agents are limited, and no studies have assessed cefiderocol-based combinations. The objective of this study was to evaluate and compare the in vitro activity of cefiderocol alone and in combination with levofloxacin, minocycline, polymyxin B, or trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (TMP-SMZ) against a collection of highly resistant clinical S. maltophilia isolates. For this purpose, the MICs of cefiderocol, ceftazidime, levofloxacin, minocycline, polymyxin B, and TMP-SMZ for 37 S. maltophilia isolates not susceptible to levofloxacin and/or TMP-SMZ were determined. Nine strains with various cefiderocol MICs were then tested in time-kill experiments with cefiderocol alone and in combination with comparators. The only agents for which susceptibility rates exceeded 40% were cefiderocol (100%) and minocycline (97.3%). Cefiderocol displayed the lowest MIC50 and MIC90 values (0.125 and 0.5 mg/liter, respectively). In time-kill experiments, synergy was observed when cefiderocol was combined with levofloxacin, minocycline, polymyxin B, or TMP-SMZ against 4/9 (44.4%), 6/9 (66.7%), 5/9 (55.5%), and 6/9 (66.7%) isolates, respectively. These data suggest that cefiderocol displays potent in vitro activity against S. maltophilia, including strains resistant to currently preferred agents. Future dynamic and in vivo studies of cefiderocol alone and in combination are warranted to further define cefiderocol's synergistic capabilities and its place in therapy for S. maltophilia infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Biagi
- College of Pharmacy, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - A Vialichka
- College of Pharmacy, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - M Jurkovic
- College of Pharmacy, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - T Wu
- College of Pharmacy, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - A Shajee
- College of Pharmacy, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - M Lee
- College of Pharmacy, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - S Patel
- College of Pharmacy, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - R E Mendes
- JMI Laboratories, North Liberty, Iowa, USA
| | - E Wenzler
- College of Pharmacy, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, USA
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Borgonetti V, Governa P, Biagi M, Galeotti N. Novel Therapeutic Approach for the Management of Mood Disorders: In Vivo and In Vitro Effect of a Combination of L-Theanine, Melissa officinalis L. and Magnolia officinalis Rehder & E.H. Wilson. Nutrients 2020; 12:nu12061803. [PMID: 32560413 PMCID: PMC7353338 DOI: 10.3390/nu12061803] [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] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2020] [Revised: 05/19/2020] [Accepted: 06/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Mood disorders represent one of the most prevalent and costly psychiatric diseases worldwide. The current therapies are generally characterized by several well-known side effects which limit their prolonged use. The use of herbal medicine for the management of several psychiatric conditions is becoming more established, as it is considered a safer support to conventional pharmacotherapy. The aim of this study was to investigate the possible anxiolytic and antidepressant activity of a fixed combination of L-theanine, Magnolia officinalis, and Melissa officinalis (TMM) in an attempt to evaluate how the multiple modulations of different physiological systems may contribute to reducing mood disorders. TMM showed an anxiolytic-like and antidepressant-like activity in vivo, which was related to a neuroprotective effect in an in vitro model of excitotoxicity. The effect of TMM was not altered by the presence of flumazenil, thus suggesting a non-benzodiazepine-like mechanism of action. On the contrary, a significant reduction in the effect was observed in animals and neuronal cells co-treated with AM251, a cannabinoid receptor type 1 (CB1) antagonist, suggesting that the endocannabinoid system may be involved in the TMM mechanism of action. In conclusion, TMM may represent a useful and safe candidate for the management of mood disorders with an innovative mechanism of action, particularly as an adjuvant to conventional therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vittoria Borgonetti
- Department of Neuroscience, Psychology, Drug Research and Child Health (NEUROFARBA), Section of Pharmacology, University of Florence, Viale G. Pieraccini 6, 50139 Florence, Italy;
| | - Paolo Governa
- Department of Biotechnology, Chemistry and Pharmacy-Department of Excellence 2018-2022, University of Siena, Via Aldo Moro 2, 53100 Siena, Italy;
| | - Marco Biagi
- Department of Physical Sciences, Earth and Environment, University of Siena, Strada Laterina 8, 53100 Siena, Italy;
| | - Nicoletta Galeotti
- Department of Neuroscience, Psychology, Drug Research and Child Health (NEUROFARBA), Section of Pharmacology, University of Florence, Viale G. Pieraccini 6, 50139 Florence, Italy;
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-055-275-8391
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Borgonetti V, Cocetta V, Biagi M, Carnevali I, Governa P, Montopoli M. Anti-inflammatory activity of a fixed combination of probiotics and herbal extract in an in vitro model of intestinal inflammation by stimulating Caco-2 cells with LPS- conditioned THP-1 cells medium. Minerva Pediatr 2020. [PMID: 32418407 DOI: 10.23736/s0026-4946.20.05765-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is an inflammatory condition of the gastrointestinal tract, characterized by chronic and relapsing immune system activation, often diagnosed in adolescence, with a rising incidence in pediatric populations. IBD results from altered interactions between gut microbes and the intestinal immune system which induce an aberrant immune response, thus anti-inflammatory or immunosuppressive therapies are generally used. Recent interest has been given to the identification of integrative and complementary approaches that could be able to restore and preserve the intestinal barrier function. METHODS In this work, we tested the effect of a fixed combination of probiotics and herbal extract (ColikindGocce®, CKG) in an in vitro model of intestinal inflammation. CaCo-2cells stimulated with LPS-conditioned monocytes culture medium was used as a paradigm of intestinal inflammation. The possible effect of CKG in maintaining the homeostasis of the intestinal epithelial barrier was investigated by measurement of the trans- epithelial electrical resistance, the paracellular permeability, and the release of inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL8, and IL10). RESULTS Results obtained in this work demonstrated that CKG is able to prevent the impairment of intestinal barrier function induced by inflammation, ameliorating the transepithelial electrical resistance and the paracellular permeability of the Caco-2 monolayer; moreover, CKG is able to counteract the increased release of TNF-a and IL-8 induced by inflammatory stimulus, thus reducing the intestinal inflammation. CONCLUSIONS This work underlines the protective effect of CKG on intestinal barrier, reducing the damages induced by inflammatory stimulus. This suggests CKG as an interesting product in the management of intestinal inflammatory conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vittoria Borgonetti
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
| | - Veronica Cocetta
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
| | - Marco Biagi
- Department of Physical Sciences, Earth and Environment, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Ilaria Carnevali
- Clinical Research Department Schwabe Pharma Italia, Egna, Bolzano, Italy
| | - Paolo Governa
- Department of Biotechnology, Chemistry and Pharmacy, University of Siena, Siena, Italy -
| | - Monica Montopoli
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
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Borgonetti V, Governa P, Biagi M, Dalia P, Corsi L. Rhodiola rosea L. modulates inflammatory processes in a CRH-activated BV2 cell model. Phytomedicine 2020; 68:153143. [PMID: 32018209 DOI: 10.1016/j.phymed.2019.153143] [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] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2019] [Revised: 11/27/2019] [Accepted: 12/03/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Rhodiola rosea L. (Crassulaceae) has been used for years in the traditional medicine of several countries as an adaptogen drug, able to preserve homeostasis in response to stress stimuli. Currently R. rosea roots and rhizome are classified as a traditional herbal medicinal product for temporary relief of symptoms of stress, such as fatigue and sensation of weakness by the European Medicines Agency. HYPOTHESIS/PURPOSE Increasing evidences suggest the involvement of neuroinflammation in response to stress. However, whether the modulation of neuroinflammatory parameters could be involved in the anti-stress effect of R. rosea has been barely studied. Thus, the aim of this work is to investigate the possible modulation of molecular inflammatory processes elicited by a R. rosea roots and rhizome ethanolic extract in an in vitro model of corticotropin releasing hormone (CRH)-stimulated BV2 microglial cells. METHODS BV2 cells were stimulated with CRH 100 nM and changes in cell viability, cytokines production and heat shock protein 70 (HSP70) levels were evaluated. Intracellular pathways related to inflammation, such as nuclear factor kappa-light-chain enhancer of activated B cells (NF-κB) nuclear translocation and mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPK) activation were also analyzed. RESULTS We found that R. rosea extract (2.7% m/m rosavin and 1% m/m salidroside) 20 µg/ml was able to counteract the neuroinflammatory effect of CRH by inhibiting NF-κB nuclear translocation with a mechanism of action involving the modulation of mitogen-activated protein kinase-activated protein kinase 2 (MKK2), extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1/2 (ERK 1/2) and c-Jun n-terminal kinase (JNK), resulting in a reduction of HSP70 expression. CONCLUSION This work expands the knowledge of the intracellular mechanisms involved in R. rosea anti-stress activity and may be useful for the study of other adaptogen drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vittoria Borgonetti
- Department of Neuroscience, Psychology, Pharmacology and Child Health (NEUROFARBA), University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Paolo Governa
- Department of Biotechnology, Chemistry and Pharmacy - Department of Excellence 2018-2022, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Marco Biagi
- Department of Physical Sciences, Earth and Environment, University of Siena, Strada Laterina, 8 Siena 53100, Italy.
| | - Pasquale Dalia
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Lorenzo Corsi
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
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Carullo G, Governa P, Spizzirri UG, Biagi M, Sciubba F, Giorgi G, Loizzo MR, Di Cocco ME, Aiello F, Restuccia D. Sangiovese cv Pomace Seeds Extract-Fortified Kefir Exerts Anti-Inflammatory Activity in an In Vitro Model of Intestinal Epithelium Using Caco-2 Cells. Antioxidants (Basel) 2020; 9:E54. [PMID: 31936207 PMCID: PMC7022605 DOI: 10.3390/antiox9010054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [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: 12/05/2019] [Revised: 01/04/2020] [Accepted: 01/05/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Inflammatory bowel disease and food allergies are a growing topic in the field of nutrition science. Polyphenols, which are the most important secondary metabolites of plants, demonstrated to modulate the expression and/or production of numerous proteins, but also to regulate the intestinal ecosystem. In this context, our aim was the investigation of protective effects against the gastrointestinal mucosa of fortified milk kefir obtained by adding seeds extract from Sangiovese cv. Pomace. Methods: An ultrasound-assisted method was used to obtain the extracts. All the extracts were assayed for the antioxidant activity. The best extract was used as an additive of fermented milk kefir to obtain a fortified final product. Kefir samples were analyzed by NMR spectroscopy. The efficiency of the barrier functions was evaluated by measuring trans-epithelial electric resistance (TEER) using a voltmeter. Results: the enriched kefir (Ksgn) possesses higher antioxidant performances compared to the unfortified sample (Kwht). Kwht and Ksgn did not alter Caco-2 TEER in basal condition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriele Carullo
- Dipartimento di Farmacia e Scienze della Salute e della Nutrizione—Dipartimento di Eccellenza 2018-2022, Università della Calabria, Edificio Polifunzionale, 87036 Rende (CS), Italy; (G.C.); (U.G.S.); (M.R.L.); (D.R.)
| | - Paolo Governa
- Dipartimento di Biotecnologie, Chimica e Farmacia—Dipartimento di Eccellenza 2018-2022, Università di Siena, Via Aldo Moro 2, 53100 Siena, Italy; (P.G.); (G.G.)
| | - Umile Gianfranco Spizzirri
- Dipartimento di Farmacia e Scienze della Salute e della Nutrizione—Dipartimento di Eccellenza 2018-2022, Università della Calabria, Edificio Polifunzionale, 87036 Rende (CS), Italy; (G.C.); (U.G.S.); (M.R.L.); (D.R.)
| | - Marco Biagi
- Dipartimento di Scienze Fisiche, della Terra e dell’Ambiente, Università di Siena, Via Laterina 8, 53100 Siena, Italy;
| | - Fabio Sciubba
- Dipartimento di Chimica, Università di Roma “La Sapienza”, Piazzale Aldo Moro 5, 00185 Roma, Italy; (F.S.); (M.E.D.C.)
| | - Gianluca Giorgi
- Dipartimento di Biotecnologie, Chimica e Farmacia—Dipartimento di Eccellenza 2018-2022, Università di Siena, Via Aldo Moro 2, 53100 Siena, Italy; (P.G.); (G.G.)
| | - Monica Rosa Loizzo
- Dipartimento di Farmacia e Scienze della Salute e della Nutrizione—Dipartimento di Eccellenza 2018-2022, Università della Calabria, Edificio Polifunzionale, 87036 Rende (CS), Italy; (G.C.); (U.G.S.); (M.R.L.); (D.R.)
| | - Maria Enrica Di Cocco
- Dipartimento di Chimica, Università di Roma “La Sapienza”, Piazzale Aldo Moro 5, 00185 Roma, Italy; (F.S.); (M.E.D.C.)
| | - Francesca Aiello
- Dipartimento di Farmacia e Scienze della Salute e della Nutrizione—Dipartimento di Eccellenza 2018-2022, Università della Calabria, Edificio Polifunzionale, 87036 Rende (CS), Italy; (G.C.); (U.G.S.); (M.R.L.); (D.R.)
| | - Donatella Restuccia
- Dipartimento di Farmacia e Scienze della Salute e della Nutrizione—Dipartimento di Eccellenza 2018-2022, Università della Calabria, Edificio Polifunzionale, 87036 Rende (CS), Italy; (G.C.); (U.G.S.); (M.R.L.); (D.R.)
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Miraldi E, Biagi M, Giachetti D. Chemical Constituents and Effect of Topical Application of Oleum Hyperici on Skin Sensitivity to Simulated Sun Exposure. Nat Prod Commun 2019. [DOI: 10.1177/1934578x0600100307] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Hypericum perforatum is one of the oldest and most experimentally and clinically studied herbal drugs. In this work, using HPLC/MS/MS, we investigated the chemical composition of the methanolic extract of the flowering tops of Oleum Hyperici, an ancient remedy obtained following the methodology reported in Deutsche Arzneibuch 6 (DAB). The chemical composition of Oleum Hyperici was very different from that of the crude drug, in which two new phloroglucinols were identified for the first time. The main components responsible for the activity (hyperforin and its derivatives, hypericin and its derivatives) were not found in the oil extract. The sun protection factor (SPF) for Oleum Hyperici was demonstrated to be low.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisabetta Miraldi
- Dipartimento di Scienze Ambientali “G. Sarfatti”, Sezione Biologia Farmaceutica, Università degli Studi di Siena, Via T. Pendola n°62, 53100 Siena, Italy
| | - Marco Biagi
- Dipartimento di Scienze Ambientali “G. Sarfatti”, Sezione Biologia Farmaceutica, Università degli Studi di Siena, Via T. Pendola n°62, 53100 Siena, Italy
| | - Daniela Giachetti
- Dipartimento di Scienze Ambientali “G. Sarfatti”, Sezione Biologia Farmaceutica, Università degli Studi di Siena, Via T. Pendola n°62, 53100 Siena, Italy
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21
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Abstract
The interest in Cannabis sativa L. phytocomplex as a medicinal tool is a recently-emerging topic. Neurodegenerative diseases represent a promising field of application for cannabis and its preparations, as most of this pathologic conditions relies on an inflammatory etiology. Several cannabis constituents display anti-inflammatory effects targeting multiple pathways. In this review, a comprehensive overview of the available literature on C. sativa constituents activities in neuroinflammation is given. On the basis that the anti-inflammatory activity of cannabis is not attributable to only a single constituent, we discuss the possible advantages of administering the whole phytocomplex in order to fully exploit the “entourage effect” in neuroinflammatory-related conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Marco Biagi
- SIFITLab, Via Laterina 8, 53100 Siena, Italy
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Biagi M, Carnevali L, Tarani F, Vicario E. Model-Based Quantitative Evaluation of Repair Procedures in Gas Distribution Networks. ACM Trans Cyber-Phys Syst 2019. [DOI: 10.1145/3284037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
We propose an approach for assessing the impact of multi-phased repair procedures on gas distribution networks, capturing load profiles that can depend on time for different classes of users, suspension of activities during non-working hours, and random execution times depending on topological, physical, and geographical characteristics of the network. The problem is characterized through a semi-formal specification based on artifacts of the Systems Modeling Language (SysML), which is then translated into a formal model based on stochastic time Petri nets. The solution method interleaves fluid-dynamic analysis of the gas behavior and stochastic analysis of the time spent in the repair process, decoupling complexities and making stochastic analysis almost insensitive to the network size and topology. Hence, our approach turns out to be applicable to real scale cases, notably computing the optimal time of day to start the repair procedure. Moreover, by encompassing general (non-Markovian) distributions, the approach enables effective fitting of durations.
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Governa P, Carullo G, Biagi M, Rago V, Aiello F. Evaluation of the In Vitro Wound-Healing Activity of Calabrian Honeys. Antioxidants (Basel) 2019; 8:antiox8020036. [PMID: 30736314 PMCID: PMC6406906 DOI: 10.3390/antiox8020036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [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: 12/13/2018] [Revised: 01/24/2019] [Accepted: 02/02/2019] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
The healing of skin wounds and particularly chronic wounds, such as diabetic foot ulcers, is still a clinical emergency. Despite the many therapeutic tools that are available so far, none seems to be really effective and safe. In this context, we highlighted the renewed wound healing activity of honey, a viscous aromatic and sweet food, by way of in vitro wound-healing assays, using the HaCaT cell line. Specifically, we investigated five monofloral or multifloral honeys from different Calabrian provinces using them as such or extracted (by Amberlite® or n-hexane and ethyl acetate). The chemical composition of honeys was ascertained by 1H NMR spectroscopy and by the gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC/MS) method for volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Amongst the five tested honeys, BL1 and BL5 honeys showed the most promising healing properties. Pinocembrin, which was revealed in BL1 (multifloral) and BL5 (orange) honey samples, is a flavanol that is already known to possess interesting biological activities, including healing. This study aims to investigate how a traditional food such as honey, which is appreciated for its nutritional value and used in folk medicine, can be enhanced as an effective modern remedial to promote a multifaceted and safe healing activity for all skin wounds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paolo Governa
- Department of Biotechnology, Chemistry and Pharmacy-Department of Excellence 2018-2022, University of Siena; Via Aldo Moro 2, 53100 Siena, Italy.
| | - Gabriele Carullo
- Department of Pharmacy Health and Nutritional Sciences-Department of Excellence 2018-2022; University of Calabria; Edificio Polifunzionale, 87036 Arcavacata di Rende (CS), Italy.
| | - Marco Biagi
- Department of Physical Sciences, Hearth and Environment; University of Siena; Via Laterina 8, 53100 Siena, Italy.
| | - Vittoria Rago
- Department of Pharmacy Health and Nutritional Sciences-Department of Excellence 2018-2022; University of Calabria; Edificio Polifunzionale, 87036 Arcavacata di Rende (CS), Italy.
| | - Francesca Aiello
- Department of Pharmacy Health and Nutritional Sciences-Department of Excellence 2018-2022; University of Calabria; Edificio Polifunzionale, 87036 Arcavacata di Rende (CS), Italy.
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Cocetta V, Catanzaro D, Borgonetti V, Ragazzi E, Giron MC, Governa P, Carnevali I, Biagi M, Montopoli M. A Fixed Combination of Probiotics and Herbal Extracts Attenuates Intestinal Barrier Dysfunction from Inflammatory Stress in an In vitro Model Using Caco-2 Cells. Recent Pat Food Nutr Agric 2019; 10:62-69. [PMID: 30088455 DOI: 10.2174/2212798410666180808121328] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [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: 02/20/2018] [Revised: 08/02/2018] [Accepted: 08/05/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Inflammatory Bowel Diseases (IBD), are considered a growing global disease, with about ten million people being affected worldwide. Maintenance of intestinal barrier integrity is crucial for preventing IBD onset and exacerbations. Some recent patents regarding oily formulations containing probiotics (WO2010122107A1 and WO2010103374A9) and the use of probiotics for gastrointestinal complaints (US20110110905A1 and US9057112B2) exist, or are pending application. OBJECTIVE In this work, we studied the effect of a fixed combination of registered Lactobacillus reuteri and Lactobacillus acidophilus strains and herbal extracts in an in vitro inflammation experimental model. METHODS Caco-2 cell monolayer was exposed to INF-γ+TNF-α or to LPS; Trans Epithelial Electrical Resistance (TEER) and paracellular permeability were investigated. ZO-1 and occludin Tight Junctions (TJs) were also investigated by mean of immunofluorescence. RESULTS Pre-treatment with the fixed combination of probiotics and herbal extracts prevented the inflammation-induced TEER decrease, paracellular permeability increase and TJs translocation. CONCLUSIONS In summary, the fixed combination of probiotics and herbal extracts investigated in this research was found to be an interesting candidate for targeting the re-establishment of intestinal barrier function in IBD conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Veronica Cocetta
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, University of Padova, 35131 Padova, Italy
| | - Daniela Catanzaro
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, University of Padova, 35131 Padova, Italy
| | - Vittoria Borgonetti
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, University of Padova, 35131 Padova, Italy
- Department of Physical Sciences, Earth and Environment, University of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy
| | - Eugenio Ragazzi
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, University of Padova, 35131 Padova, Italy
| | - Maria C Giron
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, University of Padova, 35131 Padova, Italy
| | - Paolo Governa
- Department of Physical Sciences, Earth and Environment, University of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy
- SIFITLab, Italian Society of Phytotherapy, 53100 Siena, Italy
| | | | - Marco Biagi
- Department of Physical Sciences, Earth and Environment, University of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy
- SIFITLab, Italian Society of Phytotherapy, 53100 Siena, Italy
| | - Monica Montopoli
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, University of Padova, 35131 Padova, Italy
- SIFITLab, Italian Society of Phytotherapy, 53100 Siena, Italy
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25
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Governa P, Marchi M, Cocetta V, De Leo B, Saunders PTK, Catanzaro D, Miraldi E, Montopoli M, Biagi M. Effects of Boswellia Serrata Roxb. and Curcuma longa L. in an In Vitro Intestinal Inflammation Model Using Immune Cells and Caco-2. Pharmaceuticals (Basel) 2018; 11:ph11040126. [PMID: 30463367 PMCID: PMC6316569 DOI: 10.3390/ph11040126] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [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: 10/10/2018] [Revised: 11/14/2018] [Accepted: 11/16/2018] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Inflammatory bowel diseases, which consist of chronic inflammatory conditions of the colon and the small intestine, are considered a global disease of our modern society. Recently, the interest toward the use of herbal therapies for the management of inflammatory bowel diseases has increased because of their effectiveness and favourable safety profile, compared to conventional drugs. Boswellia serrata Roxb. and Curcuma longa L. are amongst the most promising herbal drugs, however, their clinical use in inflammatory bowel diseases is limited and little is known on their mechanism of action. The aim of this work was to investigate the effects of two phytochemically characterized extracts of B. serrata and C. longa in an in vitro model of intestinal inflammation. Their impact on cytokine release and reactive oxygen species production, as well as the maintenance of the intestinal barrier function and on intestinal mucosa immune cells infiltration, has been evaluated. The extracts showed a good protective effect on the intestinal epithelium at 1 µg/mL, with TEER values increasing by approximately 1.5 fold, compared to LPS-stimulated cells. C. longa showed an anti-inflammatory mechanism of action, reducing IL-8, TNF-α and IL-6 production by approximately 30%, 25% and 40%, respectively, compared to the inflammatory stimuli. B. serrata action was linked to its antioxidant effect, with ROS production being reduced by 25%, compared to H2O2-stimulated Caco-2 cells. C. longa and B. serrata resulted to be promising agents for the management of inflammatory bowel diseases by modulating in vitro parameters which have been identified in the clinical conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paolo Governa
- Department of Physical Sciences, Hearth and Environment, University of Siena, Via Laterina 8, 53100 Siena, Italy.
- Department of Biotechnology, Chemistry and Pharmacy⁻Department of Excellence 2018⁻2022, University of Siena, Via Aldo Moro 2, 53100 Siena, Italy.
| | - Maddalena Marchi
- Department of Physical Sciences, Hearth and Environment, University of Siena, Via Laterina 8, 53100 Siena, Italy.
| | - Veronica Cocetta
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, University of Padua, Largo Egidio Meneghetti 2, 35131 Padua, Italy.
| | - Bianca De Leo
- MRC Centres for Inflammation Research and Reproductive Health, University of Edinburgh, 47 Little France Crescent, Edinburgh EH16 4TJ, UK.
| | - Philippa T K Saunders
- MRC Centre for Inflammation Research, University of Edinburgh, 47 Little France Crescent, Edinburgh EH16 4TJ, UK.
| | - Daniela Catanzaro
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, University of Padua, Largo Egidio Meneghetti 2, 35131 Padua, Italy.
| | - Elisabetta Miraldi
- Department of Physical Sciences, Hearth and Environment, University of Siena, Via Laterina 8, 53100 Siena, Italy.
| | - Monica Montopoli
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, University of Padua, Largo Egidio Meneghetti 2, 35131 Padua, Italy.
- Venetian Institute of Molecular Medicine, Via Orus 2, 35129 Padua, Italy.
| | - Marco Biagi
- Department of Physical Sciences, Hearth and Environment, University of Siena, Via Laterina 8, 53100 Siena, Italy.
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Governa P, Baini G, Borgonetti V, Cettolin G, Giachetti D, Magnano AR, Miraldi E, Biagi M. Phytotherapy in the Management of Diabetes: A Review. Molecules 2018; 23:E105. [PMID: 29300317 PMCID: PMC6017385 DOI: 10.3390/molecules23010105] [Citation(s) in RCA: 73] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2017] [Revised: 12/30/2017] [Accepted: 01/01/2018] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Phytotherapy has long been a source of medicinal products and over the years there have been many attempts to use herbal medicines for the treatment of diabetes. Several medicinal plants and their preparations have been demonstrated to act at key points of glucidic metabolism. The most common mechanisms of action found include the inhibition of α-glucosidase and of AGE formation, the increase of GLUT-4 and PPARs expression and antioxidant activity. Despite the large amount of literature available, the actual clinical effectiveness of medicinal plants in controlling diabetes-related symptoms remains controversial and there is a crucial need for stronger evidence-based data. In this review, an overview of the medicinal plants, which use in the management of diabetes is supported by authoritative monographs, is provided. References to some species which are currently under increasing clinical investigation are also reported.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paolo Governa
- Department of Physical Sciences, Earth and Environment, University of Siena, Via Laterina 8, 53100 Siena, Italy.
- Italian Society of Phytotherapy, Via Laterina 8, 53100 Siena, Italy.
- Department of Biotechnology, Chemistry and Pharmacy, University of Siena, Via Aldo Moro 2, 53100 Siena, Italy.
| | - Giulia Baini
- Department of Physical Sciences, Earth and Environment, University of Siena, Via Laterina 8, 53100 Siena, Italy.
- Italian Society of Phytotherapy, Via Laterina 8, 53100 Siena, Italy.
| | - Vittoria Borgonetti
- Department of Physical Sciences, Earth and Environment, University of Siena, Via Laterina 8, 53100 Siena, Italy.
- Italian Society of Phytotherapy, Via Laterina 8, 53100 Siena, Italy.
| | - Giulia Cettolin
- Department of Physical Sciences, Earth and Environment, University of Siena, Via Laterina 8, 53100 Siena, Italy.
- Italian Society of Phytotherapy, Via Laterina 8, 53100 Siena, Italy.
| | - Daniela Giachetti
- Department of Physical Sciences, Earth and Environment, University of Siena, Via Laterina 8, 53100 Siena, Italy.
- Italian Society of Phytotherapy, Via Laterina 8, 53100 Siena, Italy.
| | - Anna Rosa Magnano
- Department of Physical Sciences, Earth and Environment, University of Siena, Via Laterina 8, 53100 Siena, Italy.
- Italian Society of Phytotherapy, Via Laterina 8, 53100 Siena, Italy.
| | - Elisabetta Miraldi
- Department of Physical Sciences, Earth and Environment, University of Siena, Via Laterina 8, 53100 Siena, Italy.
- Italian Society of Phytotherapy, Via Laterina 8, 53100 Siena, Italy.
| | - Marco Biagi
- Department of Physical Sciences, Earth and Environment, University of Siena, Via Laterina 8, 53100 Siena, Italy.
- Italian Society of Phytotherapy, Via Laterina 8, 53100 Siena, Italy.
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27
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Catanzaro D, Gabbia D, Cocetta V, Biagi M, Ragazzi E, Montopoli M, Carrara M. Silybin counteracts doxorubicin resistance by inhibiting GLUT1 expression. Fitoterapia 2017; 124:42-48. [PMID: 29031537 DOI: 10.1016/j.fitote.2017.10.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [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: 07/20/2017] [Revised: 10/06/2017] [Accepted: 10/08/2017] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Despite significant advances in the diagnosis and treatment of cancer, the development of drug resistance still remains one of the principal causes that hampers the effectiveness of the therapy. Emerging evidences support the idea that the dysregulated metabolism could be related to drug resistance. The major goal of this study was to target cancer metabolic pathways using new pharmacological approaches coming from natural sources in order to possibly prevent or overcome this phenomenon. Firstly, the metabolic profile of human colorectal adenocarcinoma cells sensitive (LoVo WT) and resistant to doxorubicin (LoVo DOX) was delineated demonstrating that resistant cells remodel their metabolism toward a glycolytic phenotype. In particular it was observed that doxorubicin-resistant cancer cells exhibit an increased dependency from glucose for their survival, associated with overexpression of the glycolytic pathway. Moreover, both GLUT1 mRNA and protein expression significantly increased in LoVo DOX cells. Given the results about the metabolic profile, silybin, modulator of GLUTs, was selected as potential candidate to overcome doxorubicin resistance and, intriguingly, data revealed not only that silybin is more active in resistant cells than in wild type cells, but also that the combined treatment with doxorubicin and silybin presents a synergistic effect in LoVo DOX cells. Although many unanswered questions still remain about the molecular mechanism of silybin, these data suggest that targeting GLUTs may be a good strategy to restore doxorubicin sensitivity and elude drug resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniela Catanzaro
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, University of Padova, 35131 Padova, Italy.
| | - Daniela Gabbia
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, University of Padova, 35131 Padova, Italy.
| | - Veronica Cocetta
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, University of Padova, 35131 Padova, Italy.
| | - Marco Biagi
- Department of Physical Sciences, Earth and Environment, University of Siena, Italy.
| | - Eugenio Ragazzi
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, University of Padova, 35131 Padova, Italy.
| | - Monica Montopoli
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, University of Padova, 35131 Padova, Italy.
| | - Maria Carrara
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, University of Padova, 35131 Padova, Italy.
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28
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Cornara L, Biagi M, Xiao J, Burlando B. Therapeutic Properties of Bioactive Compounds from Different Honeybee Products. Front Pharmacol 2017; 8:412. [PMID: 28701955 PMCID: PMC5487425 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2017.00412] [Citation(s) in RCA: 199] [Impact Index Per Article: 28.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2017] [Accepted: 06/12/2017] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Honeybees produce honey, royal jelly, propolis, bee venom, bee pollen, and beeswax, which potentially benefit to humans due to the bioactives in them. Clinical standardization of these products is hindered by chemical variability depending on honeybee and botanical sources, but different molecules have been isolated and pharmacologically characterized. Major honey bioactives include phenolics, methylglyoxal, royal jelly proteins (MRJPs), and oligosaccharides. In royal jelly there are antimicrobial jelleins and royalisin peptides, MRJPs, and hydroxy-decenoic acid derivatives, notably 10-hydroxy-2-decenoic acid (10-HDA), with antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory, neuromodulatory, metabolic syndrome preventing, and anti-aging activities. Propolis contains caffeic acid phenethyl ester and artepillin C, specific of Brazilian propolis, with antiviral, immunomodulatory, anti-inflammatory and anticancer effects. Bee venom consists of toxic peptides like pain-inducing melittin, SK channel blocking apamin, and allergenic phospholipase A2. Bee pollen is vitaminic, contains antioxidant and anti-inflammatory plant phenolics, as well as antiatherosclerotic, antidiabetic, and hypoglycemic flavonoids, unsaturated fatty acids, and sterols. Beeswax is widely used in cosmetics and makeup. Given the importance of drug discovery from natural sources, this review is aimed at providing an exhaustive screening of the bioactive compounds detected in honeybee products and of their curative or adverse biological effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Cornara
- Dipartimento di Scienze della Terra, dell'Ambiente e della Vita, Università degli Studi di GenovaGenova, Italy
| | - Marco Biagi
- Unità Operativa di Biologia Farmaceutica, Dipartimento di Scienze Fisiche, della Terra e dell'Ambiente, Università degli Studi di SienaSiena, Italy
| | - Jianbo Xiao
- Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, University of MacauTaipa, Macau
| | - Bruno Burlando
- Dipartimento di Farmacia, Università degli Studi di GenovaGenova, Italy
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29
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Biagi M, Collodel G, Corsini M, Pascarelli NA, Moretti E. Protective effect of Propolfenol ® on induced oxidative stress in human spermatozoa. Andrologia 2017; 50. [PMID: 28470793 DOI: 10.1111/and.12807] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/09/2017] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
The propolis extract was shown to possess the capacity to protect sperm membrane from the deleterious action of oxidative attack. Oxidative stress can induce propagation of a lipid peroxidation (LPO) chain reaction because spermatozoa contain high concentration of unsaturated fatty acids. This study aimed at evaluating in vitro the possible toxicity and/or the antioxidant properties of Propolfenol® in ejaculated human spermatozoa. A colorimetric assay determined the total flavonoid content by spectrophotometry and a high-performance liquid chromatography-diode array detection analysis the quantity of galangin, pinocembrin and caffeic acid phenylethilic ester (CAPE). Sperm parameters such as motility, vitality and DNA integrity were assessed utilising optical microscopy. The antioxidant properties Propolfenol® against LPO induced by tert-Butyl Hydroperoxide were evaluated using the C11-BODIPY581/591 probe. Chemical analysis of Propolfenol® revealed low quantities of galangin, pinocembrin and CAPE; cyclic voltammetry experiments showed that Propolfenol® may exert an antioxidant activity. A protective action of Propolfenol® (20 and 100 μg/ml) on induced LPO in human spermatozoa was detected. Propolfenol® may be proposed as the supplement in media for sperm preparation techniques or cryopreservation to counteract the increased presence of reactive oxygen species generated by these methods.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Biagi
- Pharmaceutical Biology Section, Department of Physics, Earth and Environmental Science, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - G Collodel
- Department of Molecular and Developmental Medicine, Policlinico Le Scotte, Siena, Italy
| | - M Corsini
- Department of Biotechnology, Chemistry and Pharmacy, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - N A Pascarelli
- Rheumatology Unit, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria Senese, Policlinico Le Scotte, Siena, Italy
| | - E Moretti
- Department of Molecular and Developmental Medicine, Policlinico Le Scotte, Siena, Italy
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Emanuele E, Bertona M, Biagi M. Comparative effects of a fixed Polypodium leucotomos/Pomegranate combination versus Polypodium leucotomos alone on skin biophysical parameters. Neuro Endocrinol Lett 2017; 38:38-42. [PMID: 28456146] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2017] [Accepted: 02/12/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Polypodium leucotomos extract is a commonly used systemic photoprotective agent. In an exploratory fashion, the current study aimed to compare the effects of oral supplementation with a fixed Polypodium leucotomos/pomegranate combination (PPmix®) versus Polypodium leucotomos alone (Fernblock®) on skin biophysical parameters of Caucasian adults. METHODS Forty healthy adult volunteers (20 males and 20 females; mean age: 37.2±5.5 years) were randomized in a 1:1 fashion to a fixed Polypodium leucotomos/pomegranate combination (480 mg/day; n=20) or Polypodium leucotomos alone (480 mg/day; n=20) for 3 months. Six skin biophysical parameters (skin sebum content, hydration, transepidermal water loss [TEWL], erythema index, melanin index, and elasticity) were measured at baseline and after 3 months by personnel blinded to participant allocation. RESULTS At the end of the study, hydration and elasticity were significantly improved and TEWL was reduced in both groups, without significant intergroup differences. The erythema index was decreased by both treatments, although the fixed Polypodium leucotomos/pomegranate combination was significantly more effective. Finally, melanin index and skin sebum content were reduced by the fixed Polypodium leucotomos/pomegranate combination, whereas Polypodium leucotomos alone did not affect them. CONCLUSIONS Our results suggest that a fixed Polypodium leucotomos/pomegranate combination provides a greater improvement of skin biophysical parameters compared to Polypodium leucotomos alone in adult Caucasians. Our findings may have implications for optimizing systemic skin photoprotection and beautification strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Marco Biagi
- Department of Physical Sciences, Earth and Environment, University of Siena, Italy
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Governa P, Giachetti D, Biagi M, Manetti F, De Vico L. Hypothesis on Serenoa repens (Bartram) small extract inhibition of prostatic 5 α-reductase through an in silico approach on 5 β-reductase x-ray structure. PeerJ 2016; 4:e2698. [PMID: 27904805 PMCID: PMC5126621 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.2698] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [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: 04/29/2016] [Accepted: 10/18/2016] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Benign prostatic hyperplasia is a common disease in men aged over 50 years old, with an incidence increasing to more than 80% over the age of 70, that is increasingly going to attract pharmaceutical interest. Within conventional therapies, such as α-adrenoreceptor antagonists and 5α-reductase inhibitor, there is a large requirement for treatments with less adverse events on, e.g., blood pressure and sexual function: phytotherapy may be the right way to fill this need. Serenoa repens standardized extract has been widely studied and its ability to reduce lower urinary tract symptoms related to benign prostatic hyperplasia is comprehensively described in literature. An innovative investigation on the mechanism of inhibition of 5α-reductase by Serenoa repens extract active principles is proposed in this work through computational methods, performing molecular docking simulations on the crystal structure of human liver 5β-reductase. The results confirm that both sterols and fatty acids can play a role in the inhibition of the enzyme, thus, suggesting a competitive mechanism of inhibition. This work proposes a further confirmation for the rational use of herbal products in the management of benign prostatic hyperplasia, and suggests computational methods as an innovative, low cost, and non-invasive process for the study of phytocomplex activity toward proteic targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paolo Governa
- Department of Physical Sciences, Earth and Environment, University of Siena, Siena, Italy; Department of Chemistry, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Daniela Giachetti
- Department of Physical Sciences, Earth and Environment, University of Siena , Siena , Italy
| | - Marco Biagi
- Department of Physical Sciences, Earth and Environment, University of Siena , Siena , Italy
| | - Fabrizio Manetti
- Department of Biotechnology, Chemistry and Pharmacy, University of Siena , Siena , Italy
| | - Luca De Vico
- Department of Chemistry, University of Copenhagen , Copenhagen , Denmark
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Biagi M, Badowski ME, Chiampas T, Young J, Patel M, Vaughn P. Co-administration of elvitegravir/cobicistat/tenofovir disoproxil fumarate/emtricitabine and atazanavir in treatment-experienced HIV patients. Int J STD AIDS 2016; 28:766-772. [PMID: 27587601 DOI: 10.1177/0956462416666440] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
We report the use of elvitegravir 150 mg/cobicistat 150 mg/tenofovir disoproxil fumarate 300 mg/emtricitabine 200 mg (EVG/COBI/TDF/FTC) once daily, in addition to once-daily atazanavir (ATV) 300 mg, in treatment-experienced patients with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). Due to limited data available on the co-administration of these agents, our objective was to evaluate and monitor safety and efficacy of this regimen in patients who developed resistance or intolerance to conventional antiretroviral therapy (ART). This short report included offenders incarcerated in the Illinois Department of Corrections who were ≥18 years, HIV-infected, had documented antiretroviral resistance, and received EVG/COBI/TDF/FTC + ATV once daily. Based on previous ART, resistance patterns and current medications, seven patients were initiated on once-daily therapy consisting of EVG/COBI/TDF/FTC and ATV. Due to extensive resistance, two of the seven patients were also started on abacavir (ABC) 600 mg daily in addition to EVG/COBI/TDF/FTC and ATV. Of the seven patients, one had ART changed due to concerns of resistance based on a genotype, one experienced a decline in renal function that warranted a change in therapy, and one is currently virologically suppressed on a combination of EVG/COBI/TDF/FTC, ATV, and ABC. The remaining four patients remain virologically suppressed on EVG/COBI/TDF/FTC + ATV. Therapy consisting of EVG/COBI/TDF/FTC and ATV may be a viable option for some treatment-experienced HIV-infected patients. Further studies evaluating the safety, efficacy, and pharmacokinetics of this therapy are warranted, given the lack of information currently available.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Biagi
- 1 Department of Pharmacy Practice, College of Pharmacy, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - M E Badowski
- 1 Department of Pharmacy Practice, College of Pharmacy, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - T Chiampas
- 1 Department of Pharmacy Practice, College of Pharmacy, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - J Young
- 2 Section of Infectious Diseases, College of Medicine, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - M Patel
- 2 Section of Infectious Diseases, College of Medicine, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - P Vaughn
- 3 Department of Medicine, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
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Governa P, Miraldi E, De Fina G, Biagi M. Effectiveness of 5-Pyrrolidone-2-carboxylic Acid and Copper Sulfate Pentahydrate Association against Drug Resistant Staphylococcus Strains. Nat Prod Commun 2016. [DOI: 10.1177/1934578x1601100408] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Bacterial resistance is an ongoing challenge for pharmacotherapy and pharmaceutical chemistry. Staphylococcus aureus is the bacterial species which makes it most difficult to treat skin and soft tissue infections and it is seen in thousands of hospitalization cases each year. Severe but often underrated infectious diseases, such as complicated nasal infections, are primarily caused by MRSA and S. epidermidis too. With the aim of studying new drugs with antimicrobial activity and effectiveness on drug resistant Staphylococcus strains, our attention in this study was drawn on the activity of a new association between two natural products: 5-pyrrolidone-2-carboxylic acid (PCA), naturally produced by certain Lactobacillus species, and copper sulfate pentahydrate (CS). The antimicrobial susceptibility test was conducted taking into account 12 different Staphylococcus strains, comprising 6 clinical isolates and 6 resistant strains. PCA 4%, w/w, and CS 0.002%, w/w, association in distilled water solution was found to have bactericidal activity against all tested strains. Antimicrobial kinetics highlighted that PCA 4%, w/w, and CS 0.002% association could reduce by 5 log10 viable bacterial counts of MRSA and oxacillin resistant S. epidermidis in less than 5 and 3 minutes respectively. Microscopic investigations suggest a cell wall targeting mechanism of action. Being very safe and highly tolerated, the natural product PCA and CS association proved to be a promising antimicrobial agent to treat Staphylococcus related infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paolo Governa
- Department of Physical Sciences, Earth and Environment, University of Siena, Via Laterina, 8, 53100 Siena, Italy
- Italian Society of Phytotherapy SIFITLab, Via Laterina, 8, 53100 Siena, Italy
| | - Elisabetta Miraldi
- Department of Physical Sciences, Earth and Environment, University of Siena, Via Laterina, 8, 53100 Siena, Italy
| | - Gianna De Fina
- Italian Society of Phytotherapy SIFITLab, Via Laterina, 8, 53100 Siena, Italy
| | - Marco Biagi
- Department of Physical Sciences, Earth and Environment, University of Siena, Via Laterina, 8, 53100 Siena, Italy
- Italian Society of Phytotherapy SIFITLab, Via Laterina, 8, 53100 Siena, Italy
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Governa P, Miraldi E, De Fina G, Biagi M. Effectiveness of 5-Pyrrolidone-2-carboxylic Acid and Copper Sulfate Pentahydrate Association against Drug Resistant Staphylococcus Strains. Nat Prod Commun 2016; 11:453-455. [PMID: 27396191] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Bacterial resistance is an ongoing challenge for pharmacotherapy and pharmaceutical chemistry. Staphylococcus aureus is the bacterial species which makes it most difficult to treat skin and soft tissue infections and it is seen in thousands of hospitalization cases each year. Severe but often underrated infectious diseases, such as complicated nasal infections, are primarily caused by MRSA and S. epidermidis too. With the aim of studying new drugs with antimicrobial activity and effectiveness on drug resistant Staphylococcus strains, our attention in this study was drawn on the activity of a new association between two natural products: 5-pyrrolidone-2-carboxylic acid (PCA), naturally produced by certain Lactobacillus species, and copper sulfate pentahydrate (CS). The antimicrobial susceptibility test was conducted taking into account 12 different Staphylococcus strains, comprising 6 clinical isolates and 6 resistant strains. PCA 4%, w/w, and CS 0.002%, w/w, association in distilled water solution was found to have bactericidal activity against all tested strains. Antimicrobial kinetics highlighted that PCA 4%, w/w, and CS 0.002% association could reduce by 5 log10 viable bacterial counts of MRSA and oxacillin resistant S. epidennidis in less than 5 and 3 minutes respectively. Microscopic investigations suggest a cell wall targeting mechanism of action. Being very safe and highly tolerated, the natural product PCA and CS association proved to be a promising antimicrobial agent to treat Staphylococcus related infections.
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Collodel G, Moretti E, Del Vecchio MT, Biagi M, Cardinali R, Mazzi L, Brecchia G, Maranesi M, Manca D, Castellini C. Effect of chocolate and Propolfenol on rabbit spermatogenesis and sperm quality following bacterial lipopolysaccharide treatment. Syst Biol Reprod Med 2014; 60:217-26. [PMID: 24785944 DOI: 10.3109/19396368.2014.911392] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
The aims of the study were to evaluate the effects of chocolate and propolis-enriched diets on rabbit spermatogenesis, sperm motility, and ultrastructure following bacterial lipopolysaccharide (LPS) treatment. Thirty-two New Zealand White rabbits were divided into four groups. The LPS-Propolfenol(®) group received propolis (500 mg/kg/day) in their diet for 15 days, while the LPS-chocolate group was fed 70% cacao chocolate (1 g/1 kg/day) for the same period. Following the diet treatments, rabbits in the LPS-Propolfenol(®) and LPS-chocolate groups, and an LPS group received a single intraperitoneal dose of 50 μg/kg LPS, and the control group received only saline. Kinematic sperm traits were evaluated with a computer assisted sperm analyzer (CASA) system, and ultrastructural characteristics were examined by transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Testicular and epididymal tissues were observed by light microscopy and TEM and multiplex real time reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) assay was used to detect and quantify toll-like receptor-4 (TLR-4) gene expression. The values of the analyzed semen parameters of rabbits treated with LPS-Propolfenol(®) and LPS-chocolate did not show any variations compared with the control group, but they were lower in rabbits treated only with LPS. Alterations observed in the testicular tissue of LPS treated-rabbits were not detected in specimens from the LPS-chocolate and LPS-Propolfenol(®) groups, which showed normal spermatogenesis. The TLR-4 mRNA expression was similar in controls, in LPS treated, and in LPS-chocolate groups, but it was significantly (p < 0.01) decreased in LPS-Propolfenol(®) rabbits. In conclusion, a chocolate and propolis-enriched diet showed a protective effect on the spermatogenetic process of buck rabbits following LPS treatment.
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Abstract
Hand washing is considered as the single most important strategy to prevent infections. World health organization (WHO) defines hand hygiene as a primary issue of personal care with particular reference to hospital personnel and health facility workers. In this work, we investigated a new combination for hand disinfection as an alternative to alcohol-based and chlorhexidine products. The new combination of 5-pyrrolidone-2-carboxylic acid (PCA) and copper sulphate pentahydrate (CS) was tested upon different bacterial species that normally colonize hands, including Staphylococcus aureus, methicillin resistant S. aureus (MR S. aureus), Staphylococcus epidermidis, multidrug resistant S. epidermidis (MDR S. epidermidis), Streptococcus pyogenes, Streptococcus agalactiae, Escherichia coli, Candida albicans and three clinical isolates: MR S. aureus, MDR S. epidermidis, and an E. coli strain. Minimal inhibitory concentrations (MICs), Minimal bactericidal concentrations (MBCs), fractional inhibitory concentration (FIC) indices, and fractional bactericidal concentration (FBC) indices were evaluated. Ethanol 70% V/V, isopropanol 60% V/V, and 4% w/V chlorhexidine solution were used as reference hand disinfectants. Copper sulphate pentahydrate was very effective against all tested microorganisms: The MIC and MBC for CS ranged from 781 mg/l against S. pyogenes to 12500 mg/l against E. coli strains and C. albicans. In addition, PCA exhibited a good antimicrobial activity, in particular, against S. pyogenes and S. agalactiae. The combination of CS and PCA showed a strong synergistic effect and all FIC indices were ≤0·500. The combination of CS and PCA were more effective than ethanol 70% V/V and isopropanol 60% V/V. In addition to antimicrobial activity, the new formulation possesses peculiar features such as residual activity and moisturizing effect. This work identifies a new strategy for hand disinfection.
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Casale T, Caciari T, Rosati MV, Biagi M, De Sio S, Andreozzi G, Schifano MP, Capozzella A, Pimpinella B, Tomei G, Tomei F. Liver function in workers exposed of the cosmetics industry. Ann Ig 2013; 25:519-27. [PMID: 24284538 DOI: 10.7416/ai.2013.1952] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The purpose of this study is to assess whether occupational exposure to substances used in the cosmetic factories may cause effects on the liver and blood counts in exposed workers. METHODS The study included 48 exposed workers and 86 unexposed controls. All workers included in the study underwent blood count, white blood count, total, direct and indirect bilirubin, transaminases, alkaline phosphatase and cholinesterase. The differences between the means and frequencies were compared using the Student's t-test and chi-square test with Yates correction and were considered significant when the p value was <0.05. RESULTS The analysis of the results shows that 35.4% of workers in the cosmetics industry had liver test values above the range. We noted a statistically significant higher prevalence of GPT (p <0.05) and total bilirubin (p <0.05) in the workers of the cosmetics industry compared with the control group. CONCLUSIONS The results obtained suggest that occupational exposure to low doses of substances used in the cosmetic industry is able to influence some liver parameters in occupationally exposed workers.
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Affiliation(s)
- T Casale
- Department of Anatomy, Histology, Medical-Legal and the Orthopedics, Unit of Occupational Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Italy
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Miraldi E, Giachetti D, Mazzoni G, Biagi M. QUALI-QUANTITATIVE ANALYSIS OF EIGHT ROSMARINUS OFFICINALIS ESSENTIAL OILS OF DIFFERENT ORIGIN. FIRST REPORT. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2012. [DOI: 10.4081/jsas.2010.42] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
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Biagi M, Miraldi E, Figura N, Giachetti D. Antiradical activity and in vitro inhibition of Helicobacter pylori by Italian red wines. Nat Prod Commun 2009; 4:255-260. [PMID: 19370934] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/27/2023] Open
Abstract
The relevance of H. pylori to the pathogenesis of gastritis and gastroduodenal ulcers has been proposed for about the past 25 years; the presence of this bacterium is now established as the main risk factor in the development of stomach carcinomas and lymphomas. Antibiotic treatment does not always inhibit or kill H. pylori because of the potential side effects of antibiotic resistance. Previous research has indicated that red wines have therapeutic benefits against this bacterium. The purpose of our study was to determine the potential of Italian red wines to inhibit H. pylori in a laboratory medium and to compare their antimicrobial activity with that of red grape juice and with isolated procyanidins. The antiradical capacity of Italian red wines was also determined. In conclusion, a novel approach is offered coupling antioxidant benefits of red wines with synergistic effectiveness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marco Biagi
- Dipartimento di Scienze Ambientali G. Sarfatti, U. O. di Biologia Farmaceutica, Università degli Studi di Siena, Via T. Pendola n 62, 53100 Siena, Italy
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Abstract
The relevance of H. pylori to the pathogenesis of gastritis and gastroduodenal ulcers has been proposed for about the past 25 years; the presence of this bacterium is now established as the main risk factor in the development of stomach carcinomas and lymphomas. Antibiotic treatment does not always inhibit or kill H. pylori because of the potential side effects of antibiotic resistance. Previous research has indicated that red wines have therapeutic benefits against this bacterium. The purpose of our study was to determine the potential of Italian red wines to inhibit H. pylori in a laboratory medium and to compare their antimicrobial activity with that of red grape juice and with isolated procyanidins. The antiradical capacity of Italian red wines was also determined. In conclusion, a novel approach is offered coupling antioxidant benefits of red wines with synergistic effectiveness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marco Biagi
- Dipartimento di Scienze Ambientali “G. Sarfatti”, U. O. di Biologia Farmaceutica, Università degli Studi di Siena, Via T. Pendola n° 62, 53100 Siena, Italy
| | - Elisabetta Miraldi
- Dipartimento di Scienze Ambientali “G. Sarfatti”, U. O. di Biologia Farmaceutica, Università degli Studi di Siena, Via T. Pendola n° 62, 53100 Siena, Italy
| | - Natale Figura
- Dipartimento di Medicina Interna, Università degli Studi di Siena, Via delle Scotte, 53100 Siena, Italy
| | - Daniela Giachetti
- Dipartimento di Scienze Ambientali “G. Sarfatti”, U. O. di Biologia Farmaceutica, Università degli Studi di Siena, Via T. Pendola n° 62, 53100 Siena, Italy
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Altavilla D, Polito F, Bitto A, Minutoli L, Miraldi E, Fiumara T, Biagi M, Marini H, Giachetti D, Vaccaro M, Squadrito F. Anti-Inflammatory Effects of the Methanol Extract of Sedum telephium ssp. maximum in Lipopolysaccharide- Stimulated Rat Peritoneal Macrophages. Pharmacology 2008; 82:250-6. [DOI: 10.1159/000157626] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2008] [Accepted: 07/03/2008] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
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Moroni A, Marangoni A, Biagi M, Della Bella E, Savioli F, Cevenini R. USO COMBINATO DI ANALIZZATORI AD ACCESSO RANDOM ED A MICROPIASTRA PER LA SIEROLOGIA MICROBIOLOGICA. Microbiol Med 2007. [DOI: 10.4081/mm.2007.2888] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
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Tomei F, Baccolo TP, Papaleo B, Biagi M, Signorini S, Persechino B, Rosati MV. Effects of Low‐Dose Solvents on the Blood of Art Restorers. J Occup Health 2006. [DOI: 10.1539/joh.38.190] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Francesco Tomei
- Department of Occupational MedicineUniversity of Rome “La Sapienza”
| | | | - Bruno Papaleo
- Department of Occupational MedicineUniversity of Rome “La Sapienza”
| | - Marco Biagi
- Department of Occupational MedicineUniversity of Rome “La Sapienza”
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesco Tomei
- Occupational Medicine Department‟La Sapienza” UniversityRome Viale Regina Elena336‐00161RomeItaly
| | - Marco Biagi
- Occupational Medicine Department‟La Sapienza” UniversityRome Viale Regina Elena336‐00161RomeItaly
| | - Tiziana Paola Baccolo
- Occupational Medicine Department‟La Sapienza” UniversityRome Viale Regina Elena336‐00161RomeItaly
| | - Enrico Tomao
- Occupational Medicine Department‟La Sapienza” UniversityRome Viale Regina Elena336‐00161RomeItaly
| | - Paola Giuntoli
- Occupational Medicine Department‟La Sapienza” UniversityRome Viale Regina Elena336‐00161RomeItaly
| | - Maria Valeria Rosati
- Occupational Medicine Department‟La Sapienza” UniversityRome Viale Regina Elena336‐00161RomeItaly
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Moroni A, Ruscello S, Biagi M, Capitani S, Della Bella E, Cavrini F, Storni E, Sambri V. VALUTAZIONE DEL SISTEMA AUTOMATICO IMMULITE 2000 PER LA RICERCA DI ANTICORPI ANTI TOXOPLASMA E RUBELLA VIRUS. Microbiol Med 2004. [DOI: 10.4081/mm.2004.4028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
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Moroni A, Marangoni A, Storni E, Biagi M, Savioli F, Maresta P, Sambri V, Cevenini R. IL TEST IMMUNOCROMATOGRAFICO “MONOSTEP HP - DYASET” PER LA DETERMINAZIONE DI ANTIGENI DI HELICOBACTER PYLORI NELLE FECI. Microbiol Med 2003. [DOI: 10.4081/mm.2003.4259] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
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Abstract
BACKGROUND The risk of hepatotoxicity in the shoe industry has already been suggested, however, there has been no investigation among the craftsmen who repair shoes. METHODS A group of 33 shoe repairers who work in supermarkets, and who use the same glues which contain mixtures of potentially hepatotoxic solvents were identified. A control group of 61 workers not exposed to hepatotoxic substances was also examined. All participants completed a questionnaire designed to identify potential risk factors and the main non-occupational confounding factors for hepatotoxicity. Laboratory tests, commonly used in clinical practice, were done to check whether they were useful markers of hepatotoxicity due to exposure to solvent mixtures, and to investigate which tests should be used in the screening campaigns. RESULTS The exposed workers had a higher prevalence of elevated mean alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), conjugated bilirubin (P=0.0001), and alkaline phosphatase (AP) (P=0.004) than controls did. The number of workers who had values outside the upper limit of normal for our laboratory was significantly higher (ALT P=0.034, AST P=0. 037, conjugated bilirubin P=0.014). Exposed workers all had a ratio of ALT to AST greater than 1, with a mean of 1.5; it was > 1.6 in more than half the exposed workers. CONCLUSIONS The findings suggest that there is the possibility of liver involvement among even asymptomatic shoe repairers, and that periodic liver screening may be useful; furthermore, use of these tests (especially the ratio of ALT to AST) for craftsmen who repair shoes, and are exposed to solvent mixtures, is advisable even when environmental monitoring indicates levels below the threshold limit values (TLVs).
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Affiliation(s)
- F Tomei
- Occupational Medicine Department, La Sapienza University, Rome, Italy.
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Brown MC, Biagi M, Renzetti AR, Rovero P, Criscuoli M, Mizrahi J. [125I]His-neurokinin A binds selectively to NK2 receptors of the B-type in rat small intestine smooth muscle membranes. Eur J Pharmacol 1992; 227:163-71. [PMID: 1330648 DOI: 10.1016/0922-4106(92)90124-e] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
The high-affinity, reversible binding of [125I]His-neurokinin A (NKA) to rat small intestine smooth muscle membranes was investigated. Endogenous neurokinin agonists, selective neurokinin analogues, both agonist and antagonist, were used to define the selectivity of the binding. Both the endogenous and selective neurokinin analogue agonists displayed orders of potency indicating that [125I]His-NKA was binding to NK2 receptors. The use of recently developed NK2-selective antagonists indicated that the NK2 receptors present in this preparation were similar to those described in hamster trachea preparations (NK2B), and not endothelium-denuded rabbit pulmonary artery (NK2A). The absence of NK2A receptors and the predominance of NK2B was confirmed by blocking experiments using MEN10376 and L659877. Low-affinity binding of NKA was also observed with this preparation, which was not sensitive to the NK2-selective agonist, [beta-Ala8]NKA4-10. This was shown not to be due to the presence of NK1 or NK3 receptors by using selective agonists for NK1 and NK3 to block any such receptors. (No evidence for the presence of these receptors was obtained during these blocking experiments.) Guanylylimidodiphosphate appears to discriminate between the high- and low-affinity binding sites for NKA. It was thus concluded that high-affinity binding of [125I]His-NKA to rat small intestine smooth muscle membranes was selective for NK2B receptors. No evidence was found for the binding of [125I]His-NKA to NK1, NK3 or NK2A receptors.
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Affiliation(s)
- M C Brown
- Pharmacology Department, Laboratori Guidotti S.p.A., Pisa, Italy
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Sivasubramanian P, Biagi M. Morphology of the pupal stages of the fleshfly, Sarcophaga bullata (Parker) (Diptera : Sarcophagidae). ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 1983. [DOI: 10.1016/0020-7322(83)90029-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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Subissi A, Criscuoli M, Biagi M, Murmann W. Acute effects on plasma lipids in the rat of a new long-acting nicotinic acid derivative: LG 13979. J Pharm Pharmacol 1983; 35:571-5. [PMID: 6138406 DOI: 10.1111/j.2042-7158.1983.tb04335.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
The effects on plasma lipids and nicotinic acid concentrations of a single dose of 2-(3-pyridinecarbonylamino)-2-deoxy-1,3,4,6 dihydrogen-D-glucose tetra-3-pyridinecarboxylate (LG 13979) compared with the effects of nicotinic acid and of its known derivatives niceritrol and sorbinicate, at the same doses, were studied in the fasted rat. Results show that LG 13979 has more prolonged activity on plasma free fatty acids and triglycerides, with longer lasting and more intense activity on plasma cholesterol than these three reference standards. Free fatty acid rebound occurs after administration of nicotinic acid and niceritrol, but not after LG 13979. This pharmacodynamic profile may be explained on the basis of the kinetics of nicotinic acid plasma concentrations, which are low, constant and lasting after LG 13979 administration.
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