Nutrients

Research

Jump to: Review

9 pages, 1337 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Tryptanthrin Down-Regulates Oncostatin M by Targeting GM-CSF-Mediated PI3K-AKT-NF-κB Axis

by Na-Ra Han, Hi-Joon Park, Seong-Gyu Ko and Phil-Dong Moon

Nutrients 2024, 16(23), 4109; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu16234109 - 28 Nov 2024

Viewed by 420

Abstract

Background: Oncostatin M (OSM) is involved in several inflammatory responses. Tryptanthrin (TRYP), as a natural alkaloid, is a bioactive compound derived from indigo plants. Objectives/ Methods: The purpose of this study is to investigate the potential inhibitory activity of TRYP on OSM release [...] Read more.

Background: Oncostatin M (OSM) is involved in several inflammatory responses. Tryptanthrin (TRYP), as a natural alkaloid, is a bioactive compound derived from indigo plants. Objectives/ Methods: The purpose of this study is to investigate the potential inhibitory activity of TRYP on OSM release from neutrophils using neutrophils-like differentiated (d)HL-60 cells and neutrophils from mouse bone marrow. Results: The results showed that TRYP reduced the production and mRNA expression levels of OSM in the granulocyte–macrophage colony-stimulating factor (GM-CSF)-stimulated neutrophils-like dHL-60 cells. In addition, TRYP decreased the OSM production levels in the GM-CSF-stimulated neutrophils from mouse bone marrow. TRYP inhibited the phosphorylation of phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K), AKT, and nuclear factor (NF)-κB in the GM-CSF-stimulated neutrophils-like dHL-60 cells. Conclusions: Therefore, these results reveal for the first time that TRYP inhibits OSM release via the down-regulation of PI3K-AKT-NF-κB axis from neutrophils, presenting its potential as a therapeutic agent for inflammatory responses. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Effects of Plant Extracts on Human Health)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

Figure 1
TRYP reduces OSM release. dHL-60 cells were stimulated with GM-CSF, with or without TRYP, for 4 h. (a) The cell viability was assessed using an MTT assay. (b) OSM production was examined using ELISA. (c) Representative images for OSM were obtained by confocal microscopy (scale bar, 10 µm). * p < 0.05; ** p < 0.01; *** p < 0.001. Full article ">Figure 2
TRYP reduces the OSM mRNA levels. dHL-60 cells were stimulated with GM-CSF, with or without TRYP, for 30 min. OSM mRNA expression was assessed with qPCR. * p < 0.05; ** p < 0.01. Full article ">Figure 3
TRYP reduces the phosphorylation of PI3K. The phospho-PI3K levels were analyzed using immunoblots. Quantitative analysis of blots from three independent experiments is displayed in the right panel. *** p < 0.001. Full article ">Figure 4
TRYP reduces the phosphorylation of AKT. The phospho-AKT levels were measured by WB analysis. Quantitative analysis of blots from three independent experiments is displayed in the right panel. *** p < 0.001. Full article ">Figure 5
TRYP reduces the phosphorylation of NF-κB. The phospho-NF-κB levels were analyzed using immunoblots. Quantitative analysis of blots from three independent experiments is displayed in the right panel. *** p < 0.001. Full article ">

22 pages, 5425 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Phytochemical, Cytoprotective Profiling, and Anti-Inflammatory Potential of Colchicum luteum in Rheumatoid Arthritis: An Experimental and Simulation Study

by Huda Abbasi, Maria Sharif, Peter John, Attya Bhatti, Muhammad Qasim Hayat and Qaisar Mansoor

Nutrients 2024, 16(23), 4020; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu16234020 - 24 Nov 2024

Viewed by 599

Abstract

Background: Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune disorder characterized by severe pain, inflammation, and joint deformity. Currently, it affects 1% of the population, with a projection to exceed 23 million cases by 2030. Despite significant advancements, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), the first [...] Read more.

Background: Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune disorder characterized by severe pain, inflammation, and joint deformity. Currently, it affects 1% of the population, with a projection to exceed 23 million cases by 2030. Despite significant advancements, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), the first line of treatment, are associated with a range of adverse effects. Consequently, plant-based derivatives are being utilized as an effective alternative. This study evaluates the anti-inflammatory and safety profile of Colchicum luteum hydroethanolic extract (CLHE) in comparison to NSAIDs, with a focus on COX-2 and TNFα inhibition. Methods: CLHE potential was evaluated by phytochemical screening and in vitro bioactivity assays. Toxicity profile was conducted in Human Colon Epithelial Cells (HCEC) and Balb/c mice. Anti-inflammatory potential was explored in a collagen-induced arthritic (CIA) mice model. Bioactive compounds were identified computationally from GCMS data and subjected to docking and simulation studies against COX2 and TNFα. Results: CLHE demonstrated significant antioxidant (IC-50 = 6.78 µg/mL) and anti-inflammatory (IC-50 = 97.39 µg/mL) activity. It maintained 50% cell viability at 78.5 μg/µL in HCEC cells and exhibited no toxicity at a dose of 5000 mg/kg in mice. In the CIA model, CLHE significantly reduced paw swelling, arthritic scoring, C-reactive protein levels, and spleen indices, outperforming ibuprofen. Expression analysis confirmed the downregulation of COX-2, TNFα, and MMP-9. Histopathological analysis indicated the superior efficacy of CLHE compared to ibuprofen in reducing inflammation, synovial hyperplasia, and bone erosion. Computational studies identified compound-15 (CL15), (4-(4,7-dimethoxy-1,3-benzodioxol-5-yl)-2-oxo pyrrolidine-3-carboxylic acid), a non-toxic compound with strong binding affinities to COX-2 (−12.9 KJ/mol), and TNF-α (−5.8 KJ/mol). Conclusions: The findings suggest the potential of Colchicum luteum as a safer, anti-inflammatory, and multi-targeted alternative to NSAIDs for RA treatment. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Effects of Plant Extracts on Human Health)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

14 pages, 7075 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Lysimachia mauritiana Lam. Extract Alleviates Airway Inflammation Induced by Particulate Matter Plus Diesel Exhaust Particles in Mice

by Yoon-Young Sung, Seung-Hyung Kim, Won-Kyung Yang, Heung Joo Yuk, Mi-Sun Kim and Dong-Seon Kim

Nutrients 2024, 16(21), 3732; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu16213732 - 31 Oct 2024

Viewed by 564

Abstract

Exposure to air pollution poses a risk to human respiratory health, and a preventive and therapeutic remedy against fine dust-induced respiratory disease is needed. Background/Objectives: The respiratory-protective effects of Lysimachia mauritiana (LM) against airway inflammation were evaluated in a mouse model exposed to [...] Read more.

Exposure to air pollution poses a risk to human respiratory health, and a preventive and therapeutic remedy against fine dust-induced respiratory disease is needed. Background/Objectives: The respiratory-protective effects of Lysimachia mauritiana (LM) against airway inflammation were evaluated in a mouse model exposed to a fine dust mixture of diesel exhaust particles and particulate matter with a diameter of less than 10 µm (PM10D). Methods: To induce airway inflammation, PM10D was intranasally injected into BALB/c mice three times a day for 12 days, and LM extracts were given orally once per day. The immune cell subtypes, histopathology, and expression of inflammatory mediators were analyzed from the bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) and lungs. Results: LM alleviated the accumulation of neutrophils and the number of inflammatory cells in the lungs and the BALF of the PM10D-exposed mice. LM also reduced the release of inflammatory mediators (MIP-2, IL-17, IL-1α, CXCL1, TNF-α, MUC5AC, and TRP receptor channels) in the BALF and lungs. Lung histopathology was used to examine airway inflammation and the accumulation of collagen fibers and inflammatory cells after PM10D exposure and showed that LM administration improved this inflammation. Furthermore, LM extract inhibited the MAPK and NF-κB signaling pathway in the lungs and improved expectoration activity through an increase in phenol red release from the trachea. Conclusions: LM alleviated PM10D-exposed neutrophilic airway inflammation by suppressing MAPK/NF-κB activation. This study indicates that LM extract may be an effective therapeutic agent against inflammatory respiratory diseases. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Effects of Plant Extracts on Human Health)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

Figure 1
Chemical structure of mauritianin (MT). Comparison of UPLC DAD chromatograms of the 50% ethanol extract from Lysimachia mauritiana (A), MS (B), and MS/MS (C) data for the qualitative analysis of major chemical constituents. The UPLC chromatogram was acquired at 265 nm. Full article ">Figure 2
Experimental setup and the effect of Lysimachia mauritiana extract on total and immune cell numbers in a model of airway inflammation induced by particulate matter with a diameter less than 10 µm plus diesel exhaust particles (PM10D) [<a href="#B13-nutrients-16-03732" class="html-bibr">13</a>]. (A) Experimental setup; (B) neutrophils in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) cytospin (magnification: 200×); total numbers of (C) BALF cells and (D) lung cells. N = 6/group. ### p < 0.001 vs. normal. * p < 0.05, ** p < 0.01, and *** p < 0.001 vs. PM10D control (CTL). Full article ">Figure 3
Effect of Lysimachia mauritiana extract on (A) the number of white blood cells (WBCs) and (B,C) WBC differential cell counting. N = 6/group. ### p < 0.001 vs. normal. * p < 0.05, ** p < 0.01 and *** p < 0.001 vs. particulate matter with a diameter less than 10 µm plus diesel exhaust particles (PM10D) control (CTL). Full article ">Figure 4
Effect of Lysimachia mauritiana extract on the release of cytokines and chemokines in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) in a model of airway inflammation induced by particulate matter with a diameter less than 10 µm plus diesel exhaust particles (PM10D). BALF production of (A) IL-1α, (B) CXCL1, (C) TNF-α, (D) IL-17, and (E) MIP-2 (n = 6/group). ## p < 0.01 and ### p < 0.001 vs. normal. * p < 0.05, ** p < 0.01, and *** p < 0.001 vs. PM10D control (CTL). Full article ">Figure 5
Effect of Lysimachia mauritiana extract on lung histopathology. (A) Hematoxylin and eosin (H and E) staining and Masson’s trichrome (MT) staining of the lung tissue of mice with airway inflammation induced by particulate matter with a diameter less than 10 µm plus diesel exhaust particles (PM10D) (magnification: 200×) (n = 6). (B) Histopathological cell damage. ### p < 0.001 vs. normal., ** p < 0.01 and *** p < 0.001 vs. PM10D control (CTL). Full article ">Figure 6
Effect of Lysimachia mauritiana extract on the mRNA expression of airway inflammation–related genes in the lung tissue of mice with airway inflammation induced by particulate matter with a diameter less than 10 µm plus diesel exhaust particles (PM10D). mRNA expression levels of (A) TRPA1, (B) MUC5AC, (C) CXCL1, (D) TRPV1, (E) TNF-α, and (F) MIP-2 (n = 6). ## p < 0.01 and ### p < 0.001 vs. normal. * p < 0.05, ** p < 0.01, and *** p < 0.001 vs. PM10D control (CTL). Full article ">Figure 7
Effect of Lysimachia mauritiana extract on mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK)/nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) signaling induced by particulate matter with a diameter less than 10 µm plus diesel exhaust particles (PM10D) in the lung tissue of mice with PM10D-induced airway inflammation. (A) Protein expression of phospho-ERK, ERK, phospho-p38, p38, phospho-JNK, JNK, phospho-p65, p65, and β-actin. (B) Quantitative analysis of each protein band using ImageJ (n = 3). # p < 0.05 and ## p < 0.01vs. normal. * p < 0.05, ** p < 0.01, and *** p < 0.001 vs. PM10D control (CTL). Full article ">Figure 8
Effect of Lysimachia mauritiana extract on phenol red secretion in ICR mice. The amount of phenol red secretion in the airways was measured by injecting 5% phenol red into mice treated with Levosol (positive control) or LM extract for 3 days. N = 12/group. # p < 0.05 vs. normal, and * p < 0.05 vs. control. Full article ">

21 pages, 11740 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Network Pharmacology Combined with Experimental Validation to Investigate the Mechanism of the Anti-Hyperuricemia Action of Portulaca oleracea Extract

by Yiming Zhang, Shengying Zhu, Yueming Gu, Yanjing Feng and Bo Gao

Nutrients 2024, 16(20), 3549; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu16203549 - 19 Oct 2024

Viewed by 1312

Abstract

Background/Objectives: Hyperuricemia (HUA) is a common metabolic disease caused by purine metabolic disorders in the body. Portulaca oleracea L. (PO) is an edible wild vegetable. Methods: In this study, the regulatory effect of PO on HUA and its potential mechanism were initially elucidated [...] Read more.

Background/Objectives: Hyperuricemia (HUA) is a common metabolic disease caused by purine metabolic disorders in the body. Portulaca oleracea L. (PO) is an edible wild vegetable. Methods: In this study, the regulatory effect of PO on HUA and its potential mechanism were initially elucidated through network pharmacology and experimental validation. Results: The results showed that PO from Sichuan province was superior to the plant collected from other habitats in inhibiting xanthine oxidase (XOD) activity. Berberine and stachydrine were isolated and identified from PO for the first time by UPLC-Q-Exactive Orbitrap MS. The potential molecular targets and related signaling pathways were predicted by network pharmacology and molecular docking techniques. Molecular docking showed that berberine had strong docking activity with XOD, and the results of in vitro experiments verified this prediction. Through experimental analysis of HUA mice, we found that PO can reduce the production of uric acid (UA) in the organism by inhibiting XOD activity. On the other hand, PO can reduce the body ‘s reabsorption of urate and aid in its excretion out of the body by inhibiting the urate transporter proteins (GLUT9, URAT1) and promoting the high expression of urate excretory protein (ABCG2). The results of H/E staining showed that, compared with the positive drug (allopurinol and benzbromarone) group, there was no obvious renal injury in the middle- and high-dose groups of PO extract. Conclusions: In summary, our findings reveal the potential of wild plant PO as a functional food for the treatment of hyperuricemia. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Effects of Plant Extracts on Human Health)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

16 pages, 3717 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Protective Effects of an Aged Black Garlic Water Extract on the Prostate

by Maria Loreta Libero, Antonio J. Montero-Hidalgo, Lucia Recinella, Raúl M. Luque, Daniele Generali, Alessandra Acquaviva, Giustino Orlando, Claudio Ferrante, Luigi Menghini, Simonetta Cristina Di Simone, Nilofar Nilofar, Annalisa Chiavaroli, Luigi Brunetti and Sheila Leone

Nutrients 2024, 16(17), 3025; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu16173025 - 7 Sep 2024

Viewed by 2288

Abstract

Chronic inflammation is a recognized risk factor for various cancers, including prostate cancer (PCa). We aim to explore the potential protective effects of aged black garlic extract (ABGE) against inflammation-induced prostate damage and its impact on prostate cancer cell lines. We used an [...] Read more.

Chronic inflammation is a recognized risk factor for various cancers, including prostate cancer (PCa). We aim to explore the potential protective effects of aged black garlic extract (ABGE) against inflammation-induced prostate damage and its impact on prostate cancer cell lines. We used an ex vivo model of inflammation induced by Escherichia coli lipopolysaccharide (LPS) on C57BL/6 male mouse prostate specimens to investigate the anti-inflammatory properties of ABGE. The gene expression levels of pro-inflammatory biomarkers (COX-2, NF-κB, and TNF-α, IL-6) were measured. Additionally, we evaluated ABGE’s therapeutic effects on the prostate cancer cell lines through in vitro functional assays, including colony formation, tumorsphere formation, migration assays, and phosphorylation arrays to assess the signaling pathways (MAPK, AKT, JAK/STAT, and TGF-β). ABGE demonstrated significant anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects in preclinical models, partly attributed to its polyphenolic content, notably catechin and gallic acid. In the ex vivo model, ABGE reduced the gene expression levels of COX-2, NF-κB, TNF-α, and IL-6. The in vitro studies showed that ABGE inhibited cell proliferation, colony and tumorsphere formation, and cell migration in the prostate cancer cells, suggesting its potential as a therapeutic agent. ABGE exhibits promising anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer properties, supporting further investigation into ABGE as a potential agent for managing inflammation and prostate cancer. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Effects of Plant Extracts on Human Health)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

14 pages, 3650 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effects of Castanopsis echinocarpa on Sensorineural Hearing Loss via Neuronal Gene Regulation

by Isabel Rodriguez, Youn Hee Nam, Sung Woo Shin, Gyeong Jin Seo, Na Woo Kim, Wanlapa Nuankaew, Do Hoon Kim, Yu Hwa Park, Hwa Yeon Lee, Xi Hui Peng, Bin Na Hong and Tong Ho Kang

Nutrients 2024, 16(16), 2716; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu16162716 - 15 Aug 2024

Viewed by 967

Abstract

Sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL), characterized by damage to the inner ear or auditory nerve, is a prevalent auditory disorder. This study explores the potential of Castanopsis echinocarpa (CAE) as a therapeutic agent for SNHL. In vivo experiments were conducted using zebrafish and mouse [...] Read more.

Sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL), characterized by damage to the inner ear or auditory nerve, is a prevalent auditory disorder. This study explores the potential of Castanopsis echinocarpa (CAE) as a therapeutic agent for SNHL. In vivo experiments were conducted using zebrafish and mouse models. Zebrafish with neomycin-induced ototoxicity were treated with CAE, resulting in otic hair cell protection with an EC₅₀ of 0.49 µg/mL and a therapeutic index of 1020. CAE treatment improved auditory function and protected cochlear sensory cells in a mouse model after noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL). RNA sequencing of NIHL mouse cochleae revealed that CAE up-regulates genes involved in neurotransmitter synthesis, secretion, transport, and neuronal survival. Real-time qPCR validation showed that NIHL decreased the mRNA expression of genes related to neuronal function, such as Gabra1, Gad1, Slc32a1, CaMK2b, CaMKIV, and Slc17a7, while the CAE treatment significantly elevated these levels. In conclusion, our findings provide strong evidence that CAE protects against hearing loss by promoting sensory cell protection and enhancing the expression of genes critical for neuronal function and survival. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Effects of Plant Extracts on Human Health)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

10 pages, 3551 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Selaginella tamariscina Ethanol Extract Attenuates Influenza A Virus Infection by Inhibiting Hemagglutinin and Neuraminidase

by Won-Kyung Cho, Hee-Jeong Choi and Jin Yeul Ma

Nutrients 2024, 16(14), 2377; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu16142377 - 22 Jul 2024

Viewed by 1031

Abstract

Selaginella tamariscina is a perennial plant that is used for diverse diseases. This study investigated whether Selaginella tamariscina has an antiviral effect against influenza A virus (IAV) infection. We used green fluorescent protein (GFP)-tagged influenza A virus (IAV) to examine the effect of [...] Read more.

Selaginella tamariscina is a perennial plant that is used for diverse diseases. This study investigated whether Selaginella tamariscina has an antiviral effect against influenza A virus (IAV) infection. We used green fluorescent protein (GFP)-tagged influenza A virus (IAV) to examine the effect of Selaginella tamariscina ethanol extract (STE) on influenza viral infection. Fluorescence microscopy and flow cytometry showed that STE potently represses GFP expression by the virus, dose-dependently. STE significantly inhibited the expression of the IAV M2, NP, HA, NA, NS1, and PB2 proteins. Time-of-addition and hemagglutination inhibition assays showed that STE has an inhibitory effect on hemagglutinin and viral binding on the cells at an early infection time. In addition, STE exerted a suppressive effect on the neuraminidase activity of the H1N1 and H3N2 IAVs. Furthermore, dose-dependently, STE inhibited the cytopathic effect induced by H3N2, as well as by H1N1 IAV. Especially in the presence of 200 µg/mL STE, the cytopathic effect was completely blocked. Our findings suggest that STE has antiviral efficacy against IAV infection; thus, it could be developed as a natural IAV inhibitor. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Effects of Plant Extracts on Human Health)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

Figure 1
Cytotoxicity and antiviral effect of Selaginella tamariscina ethanol extract (STE) in RAW 264.7 cells. (A) The toxicity of STE in the cells was evaluated using a CCK-8 assay. The data represent the mean ± SD from three independent experiments. The unpaired Student t-test was used to assess the statistical significance. * P < 0.5, ** P < 0.05, and *** P < 0.005, compared with the untreated control. (B,C) The cells were cotreated with PR8-GFP IAV and STE. The effect of STE on PR8-GFP IAV infection was evaluated by comparing GFP expression using a fluorescence microscope (B) and FACS analysis (C). The data represent the mean ± SD from three independent experiments. The unpaired Student t-test was used to assess the statistical significance. ** P < 0.005, and *** P < 0.0005, compared with the virus-infected control. Full article ">Figure 2
STE protects the cells from the cytopathic effect induced by H1N1 (A) and H3N2 (B) influenza virus infection. STE at the indicated concentrations or medium (mock) was mixed with H1N1 or H3N2 IAV before infection of the cells. The cells infected with the mixture were incubated until the cytopathic effect formed. The cell viability was determined via a CCK-8 assay. The data represent the mean ± SD from three independent experiments. The unpaired Student t-test was used to assess the statistical significance. * P < 0.05, ** P < 0.005; NS, no significance. Full article ">Figure 3
STE suppresses IAV protein expression. STE and PR8-GFP IAV were incubated for 1 h at 4 °C. The cells were coinfected with the mixture for 24 h at 37 °C. The cells were fixed and detected with antibodies against IAV proteins, including M2, NP, NS1, NA, HA, and PB2 (red color). To detect the nuclei, the cells were stained with Hoechst 33342 (blue color). The co-localization images of red viral proteins and blue nuclei were captured using a fluorescence microscope. Full article ">Figure 4
STE affects the virus attachment and entry and directly kills the virus at an early phase. The cells were cotreated with STE (100 µg/mL) and PR8-GFP IAV (10 MOI) to examine the effect of STE on viral attachment, entry, or virucidal stage. The detailed time-of-addition methods were described in the Materials and Methods Section. The images of GFP-expressing cells were obtained using brightfield and fluorescence microscopy (A). The cells fixed with paraformaldehyde were analyzed by flow cytometry (B). The data represent the mean ± SD from three independent experiments. The unpaired Student t-test was used to assess the statistical significance. ** P < 0.005, *** P < 0.0005; NS, no significance. Full article ">Figure 5
STE reduces the HA unit of influenza viruses (A,B). The cells were cotreated with STE at the indicated concentrations and H1N1 IAV for 24 h at 37 °C. The 2-fold serially diluted supernatants and chicken RBC cells were mixed in round 96-well plates for 1 h at room temperature. The red circle indicates hemagglutination (HA) units. Full article ">Figure 6
STE dose-dependently represses the neuraminidase activities of H1N1 and H3N2 IAVs. Serially diluted STE (A) or oseltamivir carboxylate (B) was mixed with H1N1 or H3N2 IAV in 96-well black plates. The detailed neuraminidase activity assay was described in materials and methods. The data represent the mean ± SD from three independent experiments. The unpaired Student t-test was used to assess the statistical significance. * P < 0.05, ** P < 0.005, and *** P < 0.0005, compared with the H1N1 virus-infected group. # P < 0.05, ## P < 0.005, and ### P < 0.0005, compared with the H3N2 virus-infected group. Full article ">

12 pages, 1726 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Antithrombotic Effect of Oil from the Pulp of Bocaiúva—Acrocomia aculeata (Jacq.) Lodd. ex Mart. (Arecaceae)

by Isabelly Teixeira Espinoça, Denise Caroline Luiz Soares Basilio, Anna Júlia Papa de Araujo, Rafael Seiji Nakano Ota, Kamylla Fernanda Souza de Souza, Nadla Soares Cassemiro, Davi Campos Lagatta, Edgar Julian Paredes-Gamero, Maria Lígia Rodrigues Macedo, Denise Brentan Silva, Janaina de Cássia Orlandi Sardi, Danilo Wilhelm-Filho, Ana Cristina Jacobowski and Eduardo Benedetti Parisotto

Nutrients 2024, 16(13), 2024; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu16132024 - 26 Jun 2024

Viewed by 1538

Abstract

The study aimed to evaluate the antithrombotic action of Acrocomia aculeata pulp oil (AAPO) in natura, in an in vitro experimental model. AAPO was obtained by solvent extraction, and its chemical characterization was performed by gas chromatography coupled to a mass spectrometer (GC-MS). [...] Read more.

The study aimed to evaluate the antithrombotic action of Acrocomia aculeata pulp oil (AAPO) in natura, in an in vitro experimental model. AAPO was obtained by solvent extraction, and its chemical characterization was performed by gas chromatography coupled to a mass spectrometer (GC-MS). In vitro toxicity was evaluated with the Trypan Blue exclusion test and in vivo by the Galleria mellonella model. ADP/epinephrine-induced platelet aggregation after treatment with AAPO (50, 100, 200, 400, and 800 μg/mL) was evaluated by turbidimetry, and coagulation was determined by prothrombin activity time (PT) and activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT). Platelet activation was measured by expression of P-selectin on the platelet surface by flow cytometry and intraplatelet content of reactive oxygen species (ROS) by fluorimetry. The results showed that AAPO has as major components such as oleic acid, palmitic acid, lauric acid, caprylic acid, and squalene. AAPO showed no toxicity in vitro or in vivo. Platelet aggregation decreased against agonists using treatment with different concentrations of AAPO. Oil did not interfere in PT and aPTT. Moreover, it expressively decreased ROS-induced platelet activation and P-selectin expression. Therefore, AAPO showed antiplatelet action since it decreased platelet activation verified by the decrease in P-selectin expression as well as in ROS production. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Effects of Plant Extracts on Human Health)

► Show Figures

Graphical abstract

Graphical abstract
Full article ">Figure 1
Toxicity in human platelets and systemic in G. mellonella. (A) Percentage (%) of human platelet viability obtained in PRP treated with Acrocomia aculeata (AAPO) pulp oil at different concentrations (50, 100, 200, 400, and 800 μg/mL); negative control (NC): vehicle (DMSO, 0.6%) and positive control (PC): Triton X100 (1%). (***) indicates statistical difference with p < 0.001 compared to NC. (B) In vivo systemic toxicity in G. mellonella model treated with different concentrations (50, 100, 400, and 800 μg/mL) of AAPO. The percentage of survival was evaluated for 72 h; negative control (NC): saline and positive control: DMSO (100%). Difference estimates in survival were compared using a p < 0.05 log-rank test. Full article ">Figure 2
Effect of AAPO on platelet aggregation induced by ADP and epinephrine. Percentage (%) of platelet aggregation at different concentrations of AAPO (50, 100, 200, 400, and 800 μg/mL), induced by ADP (30 μM) (A,B) and epinephrine (5 μg/mL) (C,D) for 5 and 10 min, respectively; negative control—NC (DMSO 0.6%) and positive control—PC (Ticlopidine 10 μM). (***) The statistical difference with p < 0.001 compared to negative control (NC). (#) The statistical difference with p < 0.001 compared to positive control (PC). Full article ">Figure 3
Expression of platelet surface P-selectin after exposure of platelets to AAPO. (A) Representative dot plots generated by FlowJo software. The gate shows the platelet population. (B) Representative dot plot showing a platelet-positive population (CD42b-FITC). (C) Representative histograms showing the activation of platelets incubated with AAPO and stimulated by ADP (30 μM) for 5 min. Activated platelets were labeled with CD42b-FITC (5 μL) and CD62P (CD62P-PE, 5 μL) and kept in the dark for 15 min. (D) Mean fluorescence intensity (MFI) of CD62P-PE expressed on the membrane of activated platelets treated with different concentrations of AAPO (50, 100, 200, 400, and 800 μg/mL). DMSO (0.6%): negative control; ADP (30 μM): positive control. Three independent experiments were performed. (***) The statistical difference with p < 0.001 compared to negative control. (##) The statistical difference with p < 0.01 and (###) statistical difference with p < 0.001 compared to ADP group. Full article ">Figure 4
Intraplatelet content of ROS in AAPO-treated platelets. Intraplatelet ROS content after 30 min of incubation with DCFH-DA (10 µM), in platelets treated with 50, 100, 200, 400, and 800 μg/mL of A. aculeata pulp oil (AAPO) or controls; negative control—NC (DMSO 0.6%) and positive control—PC (hydrogen peroxide, H2O2). (***) The statistical difference with p < 0.001 compared to negative control (NC). (#) The statistical difference with p < 0.001 compared to positive control (PC). Full article ">

14 pages, 2167 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Antidiabetic Effect of Passiflora ligularis Leaves in High Fat-Diet/Streptozotocin-Induced Diabetic Mice

by Diana P. Rey, Sandra M. Echeverry, Ivonne H. Valderrama, Ingrid A. Rodriguez, Luis F. Ospina, Fatima Regina Mena Barreto Silva and Marcela Aragón

Nutrients 2024, 16(11), 1669; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu16111669 - 29 May 2024

Viewed by 1250

Abstract

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a major global public health concern, prompting the ongoing search for new treatment options. Medicinal plants have emerged as one such alternative. Our objective was to evaluate the antidiabetic effect of an extract from the leaves of [...] Read more.

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a major global public health concern, prompting the ongoing search for new treatment options. Medicinal plants have emerged as one such alternative. Our objective was to evaluate the antidiabetic effect of an extract from the leaves of Passiflora ligularis (P. ligularis). For this purpose, T2DM was first induced in mice using a high-fat diet and low doses of streptozotocin. Subsequently, an aqueous extract or an ethanolic extract of P. ligularis leaves was administered for 21 days. The following relevant results were found: fasting blood glucose levels were reduced by up to 41%, and by 29% after an oral glucose overload. The homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) was reduced by 59%. Histopathologically, better preservation of pancreatic tissue was observed. Regarding oxidative stress parameters, there was an increase of up to 48% in superoxide dismutase (SOD), an increase in catalase (CAT) activity by 35% to 80%, and a decrease in lipid peroxidation (MDA) by 35% to 80% in the liver, kidney, or pancreas. Lastly, regarding the lipid profile, triglycerides (TG) were reduced by up to 30%, total cholesterol (TC) by 35%, and low-density lipoproteins (LDL) by up to 32%, while treatments increased high-density lipoproteins (HDL) by up to 35%. With all the above, we can conclude that P. ligularis leaves showed antihyperglycemic, hypolipidemic, and antioxidant effects, making this species promising for the treatment of T2DM. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Effects of Plant Extracts on Human Health)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

Figure 1
Chromatographic profile of aqueous extract of Passiflora ligularis leaves (blue) and an ethanol fraction of Passiflora ligularis leaves (pink) at 350 nm. Chromatographic signal 1 corresponds to isoquercetin, signal 2 corresponds to astragalin, and signal 3 corresponds to chrysin. The analytical method used was previously described in the methodology section. Full article ">Figure 2
Difference between day 0 and 7, 14, and 21 days in blood glucose levels (BGLs) of the experimental mice. Normoglycemic (blue), vehicle (red), metformin 250 mg/kg (purple), aqueous extract 500 mg/kg (yellow), ethanol fraction 250 mg/kg (green). Data are expressed as mean ± SEM, n = 6 animals per group. Two-way ANOVA post-test Bonferroni; **** p < 0.0001 with respect to the vehicle group. Full article ">Figure 3
Oral glucose overload test. Normoglycemic (blue), vehicle (red), metformin 250 mg/kg (purple), aqueous extract of P. ligularis 500 mg/kg (yellow), ethanol fraction of P. ligularis 250 mg/kg (green). Data are expressed as mean ± SEM, n = 6 animals per group. Two-way ANOVA post-test Bonferroni; **** p < 0.0001 with respect to the vehicle group. Full article ">Figure 4
Photomicrographs of pancreatic tissues from different experimental groups were stained by hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) and examined with magnifying power (40×). (a) Normoglycemic group, (b) Vehicle, (c) Metformin, (d) Aqueous extract of P. ligularis, (e) Ethanol fraction of P. ligularis. Arrows show the presence of Langerhans islets. Full article ">Figure 5
Effect of P. ligularis on oxidative stress parameters. Normoglycemic (blue), vehicle (red), metformin 250 mg/kg (purple), aqueous extract of P. ligularis 500 mg/kg (yellow), ethanol fraction of P. ligularis 250 mg/kg (green). SOD activity: (a) liver, (b) kidney, (c) pancreas; CAT activity: (d) liver, (e) kidney, (f) pancreas; MDA levels: (g) liver, (h) kidney, (i) pancreas. Data are expressed as mean ± SEM, n = 6 animals per group. One-way ANOVA post-test Dunnet; * p < 0.05, ** p < 0.01, *** p < 0.001 and **** p < 0.0001 with respect to the vehicle group. Full article ">

Review

Jump to: Research

19 pages, 327 KiB

Open AccessReview

Ashwagandha’s Multifaceted Effects on Human Health: Impact on Vascular Endothelium, Inflammation, Lipid Metabolism, and Cardiovascular Outcomes—A Review

by Michał Wiciński, Anna Fajkiel-Madajczyk, Zuzanna Kurant, Sara Liss, Paweł Szyperski, Monika Szambelan, Bartłomiej Gromadzki, Iga Rupniak, Maciej Słupski and Iwona Sadowska-Krawczenko

Nutrients 2024, 16(15), 2481; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu16152481 - 31 Jul 2024

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 9999

Abstract

Withania somnifera, commonly known as Ashwagandha, has been popular for many years. Numerous studies have shown that the extract of this plant, due to its wealth of active substances, can induce anti-inflammatory, neuroprotective, immunomodulatory, hepatoprotective, cardioprotective, anti-diabetic, adaptogenic, anti-arthritic, anti-stress, and antimicrobial [...] Read more.

Withania somnifera, commonly known as Ashwagandha, has been popular for many years. Numerous studies have shown that the extract of this plant, due to its wealth of active substances, can induce anti-inflammatory, neuroprotective, immunomodulatory, hepatoprotective, cardioprotective, anti-diabetic, adaptogenic, anti-arthritic, anti-stress, and antimicrobial effects. This review examines the impact of Ashwagandha extract on the vascular endothelium, inflammation, lipid metabolism, and cardiovascular outcomes. Studies have shown that Ashwagandha extracts exhibit an anti-angiogenic effect by inhibiting vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF)-induced capillary sprouting and formation by lowering the mean density of microvessels. Furthermore, the results of numerous studies highlight the anti-inflammatory role of Ashwagandha extract, as the action of this plant causes a decrease in the expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines. Interestingly, withanolides, present in Ashwagandha root, have shown the ability to inhibit the differentiation of preadipocytes into adipocytes. Research results have also proved that W. somnifera demonstrates cardioprotective effects due to its antioxidant properties and reduces ischemia/reperfusion-induced apoptosis. It seems that this plant can be successfully used as a potential treatment for several conditions, mainly those with increased inflammation. More research is needed to elucidate the exact mechanisms by which the substances contained in W. somnifera extracts can act in the human body. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Effects of Plant Extracts on Human Health)

Journal Menu

Journal Browser

Effects of Plant Extracts on Human Health

Share This Special Issue

Special Issue Editors

Special Issue Information

Keywords

Benefits of Publishing in a Special Issue

Published Papers (10 papers)

Research

Review

Further Information

Guidelines

MDPI Initiatives

Follow MDPI