Search Results (156)

Chronic inflammation and oxidative stress play significant roles in the development of various diseases like diabetes, cancer, and cardiovascular diseases. This study aimed to explore the potential therapeutic benefits of Annona crassiflora (Araticum-do-Cerrado) leaves, specifically focusing on their anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antiglycation properties. To achieve this, a hydroethanolic extract of the plant’s leaves (EHAC) was prepared and subjected to phytochemical analysis and in vitro tests to evaluate its effects. The tests included assessing its impact on fibroblast cytotoxicity, anti-inflammatory capabilities (phagocytosis and macrophage spreading), antioxidant activity (DPPH and lipid peroxidation), and antiglycation activity. The results indicated that the EHAC contains high levels of phenolic compounds, including rutin and quercetin. The extract demonstrated strong anti-inflammatory activity by significantly inhibiting phagocytosis and macrophage spreading. Furthermore, it exhibited high antioxidant capacity by inhibiting lipid peroxidation and scavenging free radicals. Additionally, it showed notable antiglycation activity by completely inhibiting the formation of AGEs at the tested concentrations. The cell viability remained above 95% at concentrations up to 800 µg/mL. In conclusion, the EHAC has significant therapeutic potential, and further research is warranted for its development as a phytotherapeutic, with the aim of preserving the biodiversity of the Brazilian Cerrado. Full article

Background/Objectives: Psoriasis, a prevalent dermatological disorder, poses therapeutic challenges due to limited effective treatments or adverse side-effects. Traditional medicinal plants like Alstonia scholaris and Wrightia tinctoria, historically used in Ayurvedic and Siddha practices, show potential in treating inflammatory skin diseases. This study aims to explore their in vitro and in vivo anti-psoriatic properties to develop safer and more effective therapies. Methods: Chloroform:methanol fractions from ethanol extracts of Alstonia scholaris and Wrightia tinctoria were evaluated for anti-psoriatic activity. In vitro assays using HaCaT cells assessed cell viability, apoptosis, and inflammatory markers. In vivo studies utilized an IMQ-induced psoriasis mouse model, evaluating skin lesions, histopathology, and cytokine profiles. Results: Chloroform fractions significantly reduced HaCaT cell viability and induced apoptosis. They also dose-dependently downregulated IL-8 and RANTES levels. In vivo, these fractions reduced skin inflammation, edema, and psoriasis scores. Histopathological analysis showed decreased epidermal thickness and dermal inflammation. Key psoriasis biomarkers IL-17 and IL-23 were significantly reduced. Conclusions: Chloroform:methanol fractions from Alstonia scholaris and Wrightia tinctoria demonstrated potent anti-psoriatic effects in vitro and in vivo. These findings support their potential as novel phytotherapeutic agents for managing psoriasis, offering promise for further development and clinical application. Full article

Background/Objectives: Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is among the most common conditions affecting men as they age, resulting in lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) that can profoundly impact quality of life. While historically attributed primarily to androgenic imbalances, current evidence implicates additional factors—particularly oxidative stress (OS) and chronic inflammation—in BPH pathogenesis. This review aims to synthesize research on the interplay between OS, inflammation, and hormonal regulation in BPH, emphasizing their clinical relevance and potential therapeutic implications. Methods: A comprehensive review of peer-reviewed literature was conducted focusing on mechanistic studies, clinical trials, and observational reports. Searches included data on ROS generation, antioxidant capacity, inflammatory mediators, and their contribution to pathological prostatic overgrowth. Potential interventions targeting OS—such as antioxidant supplementation, anti-inflammatory drugs, vitamin D receptor agonists, and phytotherapeutics—were also evaluated for their efficacy and safety profiles. Results: Chronic inflammation and OS were consistently identified within hyperplastic prostate tissue. Excessive ROS production, diminished antioxidant defense, and sustained cytokine release create a proproliferative and antiapoptotic environment, accelerating disease progression. Metabolic comorbidities (e.g., obesity, insulin resistance) further exacerbate these imbalances. Standard therapies (α-blockers and 5-ARIs) effectively relieve symptoms but do not directly address the oxidative–inflammatory axis. Emerging evidence suggests that pharmacological and dietary approaches targeting OS and inflammation may reduce prostate volume expansion and alleviate LUTS. Conclusions: Findings indicate that OS and inflammation are key contributors to BPH progression. Incorporating antioxidant and anti-inflammatory strategies alongside conventional treatments holds promise for improving clinical outcomes and patient quality of life. Future research should focus on validating OS-specific biomarkers and optimizing personalized therapy regimens. Full article

A promising approach to accelerating the development of innovative anti-cancer therapies involves the evaluation of natural plant compounds. In this study, we focused on examining the effects of Warbugia ugandensis (W. ugandensis) methanolic root and stem infusions on the activity of five target genes—COX-2, CASPS-9, Bcl-xL, Bcl2, and 5-LOX—using colorectal cancer (CRC) cell lines (Caco-2). The plant extracts were prepared for testing by dissolving them in dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) after undergoing a step-by-step extraction process. Caco-2 cells were then treated with different concentrations of the extracts, and RNA was extracted and purified for analysis. Our results demonstrated a dose-dependent relationship between the phytoconstituents of W. ugandensis and the overexpression of CASP9, along with the downregulation of COX-2, 5-LOX, Bcl-xL, and Bcl2 genes. This suggests that W. ugandensis acts as a potent natural inhibitor of CRC progression. Given the potential clinical benefits, we propose the use of W. ugandensis methanolic root and stem extracts as promising organic inhibitors for CRC tumorigenesis, with more in vitro studies warranted to validate and expand on our findings. Additionally, we recommend further studies to identify and characterize the specific metabolites in W. ugandensis that contribute to the modulation of pathways responsible for inhibiting CRC growth. Full article

Gastrointestinal nematode infections significantly impact small ruminant production, causing substantial economic losses worldwide. The rising resistance to anthelmintics has led to the search for alternative treatments, including phytotherapeutic approaches. This study investigates the chemical composition and anthelmintic activity of crude extracts and fractions from Simarouba berteroana, an endemic plant from Hispaniola, against a multidrug-resistant isolate of Haemonchus contortus. Chemical analyses revealed high contents of phenolic compounds, tannins, and flavonoids and confirmed the presence of 22 quassinoids, 5 phytosterol lipids, 3 terpenoid quinones, 3 alkaloids, and 1 naphthoquinone. The hydroalcoholic and iso-butanol fractions showed the strongest egg hatching inhibition (IC₅₀ = 0.93 and 1.21 mg/mL, respectively), while hexane fractions were less effective (p < 0.05). Fluorescence microscopy showed that the extracts and fractions adhered to eggshells, causing evisceration and cuticle detachment in hatched larvae. All extracts, except for hexane fractions, inhibited larval exsheathment at 0.3 mg/mL, with phenolic compounds being responsible for this effect. These results provide the first evidence of the ovicidal and larval exsheathment inhibition activities of S. berteroana extracts and fractions against H. contortus, highlighting their potential in managing gastrointestinal nematodes in small ruminants. Further in vivo studies are needed to confirm these findings. Full article

In recent years, numerous studies have emerged on the biological activities of bryophytes and their potential for therapeutic use. However, mosses appear to be a relatively overlooked group. The objective of this study was to conduct a phytochemical analysis of one hydroalcoholic extract of Syntrichia laevipila and to evaluate its potential as an antioxidant and antimicrobial agent. The moss was collected in the Chaco Serrano region of Argentina, specifically on Jacaranda mimosifolia, and subsequently extracted by maceration in ethanol/water. UHPLC/ESI/MS/MS analysis identified 32 peaks, including phenolic compounds (phenolic acids, lignans, chalcones, and flavonoids) and non-hydrophilic compounds (terpenoids, fatty acids, and brassinosteroids). Maslinic and oleanolic acids, two triterpenoids present in S. laevipila, were also detected in J. mimosifolia, a substrate of this moss. The concentration of phenolic compounds was 19.05 ± 0.21 µg GAE/mL, while the total flavonoid concentration was 13.13 ± 0.33 µg QE/mL. The determination of reducing and total sugars yielded 0.22 ± 0.03 mg GE/mL and 1.26 ± 0.24 mg GE/mL, respectively, while the concentration of soluble proteins was 90.60 ± 4.50 µg BSAE/mL. The extract exhibited antioxidant properties by scavenging ABTS^•+, H₂O₂, AAPH, and HO^• radicals. Additionally, it demonstrated antibacterial activity by inhibiting the growth of four strains of Staphylococcus aureus. The data obtained suggest that the hydroalcoholic extract of S. laevipila possesses significant potential as a natural antioxidant and antimicrobial agent, making it a promising candidate for the development of phytotherapeutic and cosmetic products. Full article

Taraxacum officinale (dandelion) is a perennial flowering plant of the Asteraceae family that has spread globally and is well-known for its traditional uses. The aim of this work is to provide a detailed review of scientific literature on the genus Taraxacum from the last two decades, with particular emphasis on the biological and pharmacological characteristics of dandelions. The traditional use of Taraxacum species and their potential use in medicine are assessed. In addition, individual papers describing principal pathways and molecules modulated by Taraxacum in antitumoral, anti-inflammatory, antidiabetic, hepatoprotective, immunomodulatory, antimicrobial, and antioxidant activities are presented. This review of phytochemical studies reveals that dandelions contain a wide range of bioactive compounds, such as polyphenols, phytosterols, flavonoids, carotenoids, terpene, and coumarins, whose biological activities are actively explored in various areas of human health, some constituents having synergistic activities, including antioxidant, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory and anticancer activities. The study provides a screening of Taraxacum sp. chemical composition, an assessment of the main pharmacological properties, and a description of relevant studies supporting the use of dandelion for its particularly valuable and diversified therapeutic potential in different diseases. Full article

In this manuscript, the effects of two extracts from Andrographis paniculata were tested: (a) an extract titrated to 49.7% of andrographolide and obtained from leaves of the plant: (b) the pure andrographolide titrated to 99%. The extracts were dissolved in 1-butanol and tested on tumor lines (MCF7 and SH-SY5Y) and the non-tumor line (Huvec) to understand the effects on cell proliferation. The addition of a sonication process improved their dissolution and efficacy making these extracts unique and innovative. The experiments conducted (viability measurements, solubility of the extracts, IC₅₀ tests, measurement of oxidative potential, lipid and cytosolic calcium concentration, and mortality assessment by annexin assay) showed a different behavior of the extracts on cancer cells and not. In particular, the extracts did not cause toxic effects on the viability of the Huvec cells, while both tumor lines were damaged, demonstrating that cancer cells are more susceptible to extracts of A. paniculata than healthy cells. The mechanism of action responsible for the damage detected involved the functioning of the endoplasmic reticulum organelle and finally resulted in apoptotic death. For this reason, the extracts considered have shown a potential anti-tumor role and A. paniculata could be used and exploited in pharmacological therapy against cancer. However, further studies, obtained in clinical practice, should be conducted to increase knowledge of the effects of A. paniculata on the organism and its phytotherapeutic role. Full article

In spite of significant advancements in diagnosis and treatment, cancer remains one of the major threats to human health due to its ability to cause disease with high morbidity and mortality. A multifactorial and multitargeted approach is required towards intervention of the multitude of signaling pathways associated with carcinogenesis inclusive of angiogenesis and metastasis. In this context, plants provide an immense source of phytotherapeutics that show great promise as anticancer drugs. There is increasing epidemiological data indicating that diets rich in vegetables and fruits could decrease the risks of certain cancers. Several studies have proved that natural plant polyphenols, such as flavonoids, lignans, phenolic acids, alkaloids, phenylpropanoids, isoprenoids, terpenes, and stilbenes, could be used in anticancer prophylaxis and therapeutics by recruitment of mechanisms inclusive of antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities and modulation of several molecular events associated with carcinogenesis. The current review discusses the anticancer activities of principal phytochemicals with focus on signaling circuits towards targeted cancer prophylaxis and therapy. Also addressed are plant-derived anti-cancer vaccines, nanoparticles, monoclonal antibodies, and immunotherapies. This review article brings to light the importance of plants and plant-based platforms as invaluable, low-cost sources of anti-cancer molecules of particular applicability in resource-poor developing countries. Full article

Chasteberry extract offers considerable phytotherapeutic benefits, particularly in alleviating premenstrual syndrome (PMS) symptoms. However, its hydroalcoholic nature leads to a bitter taste and a burning sensation, presenting challenges for direct consumption or incorporation into new food products. This study aimed to address these issues by encapsulating concentrated chasteberry extract using spray-drying with Arabic gum, followed by spray-chilling with vegetable fat as carriers. The encapsulated particles were characterized by their morphology, size, and stability, with a specific focus on phenolics and casticin stabilization. The microparticles were incorporated into dark chocolate formulations, and sensory trials conducted with dark chocolate revealed that encapsulation effectively masked undesirable flavors while safeguarding the bioactive compounds. This strategy resulted in a product that demonstrated enhanced stability and sensory appeal. This innovative formulation holds promise for delivering chasteberry phytochemicals that help alleviate PMS symptoms. Full article

Background: Apigenin (4′,5,7-trihydroxyflavone), a flavonoid with potential cardiovascular benefits, has unclear mechanisms of action. This study investigates its effects on vascular function in Spontaneously Hypertensive Rats (SHRs). Methods: Mesenteric vascular beds (MVBs) were isolated from SHRs and perfused with increasing doses of apigenin after pre-contraction with phenylephrine. To explore the mechanisms, different MVBs were pre-perfused with antagonists and inhibitors, including indomethacin, L-NAME, and potassium channel blockers (tetraethylammonium, a non-specific potassium channel blocker; glibenclamide, an ATP-sensitive potassium channel blocker; 4-aminopyridine, a voltage-gated potassium channel blocker; charybdotoxin a selective intermediate-conductance calcium-activated potassium channel blocker; and apamin, a selective small-conductance calcium-activated potassium channel blocker). Results: Apigenin induced a dose-dependent reduction in perfusion pressure in MVBs with intact endothelium, an effect abolished by endothelium removal. L-NAME reduced apigenin-induced vasodilation by approximately 40%. The vasodilatory effect was blocked by potassium chloride and tetraethylammonium. The inhibition of small and intermediate calcium-activated potassium channels with charybdotoxin and apamin reduced apigenin-induced vasodilation by 50%, and a combination of these blockers with L-NAME completely inhibited the effect. Conclusions: Apigenin promotes vasodilation in resistance arteries through endothelial nitric oxide and calcium-activated potassium channels. These findings suggest that apigenin could have therapeutic potential in cardiovascular disease, warranting further clinical research. Full article

Background/Objective: Cardiometabolic syndrome (CMS) is a complex clinical condition that encompasses metabolic dysregulation, cardiovascular disease, and diabetes risk factors. Worldwide, CMS is underdiagnosed, and its occurrence significantly increases cardiovascular morbimortality. Despite available pharmacological treatments, the approach is fragmented, and the associated clinical conditions are treated independently. This approach may be partially due to limited preclinical models to mimic the clinical conditions of CMS. Therefore, our study aims to present an innovative animal model of cardiometabolic syndrome and evaluate the effects of Baccharis dracunculifolia on the set of clinical alterations associated with the condition. Methods: Female Wistar rats were induced to develop diabetes, fed a cholesterol-enriched diet, and exposed to the smoke of 9 cigarettes/day for 6 weeks. During the last 2 weeks, the rats were treated with vehicle, B. dracunculifolia (30, 100, and 300 mg/kg), or a combination of simvastatin and insulin. At the end of the treatment, plasma lipid levels were measured, and the liver was analyzed histologically for hepatic lipid quantification and oxidative stress assessment. Results: Phytochemical analysis revealed seven phenolic acids and six flavonoids in the extract. B. dracunculifolia showed significant hepatoprotective effects, reducing AST and ALT levels and lowering both plasma and hepatic lipid levels. The extract also reversed hepatic steatosis and demonstrated antioxidant properties. Conclusions: These findings suggest that B. dracunculifolia may be a therapeutic option for the metabolic dysregulation present in CMS. Full article

Background/Objectives: Products from various parts of Crataegus species are traditionally applied as a cardiotonic. In Europe and the USA, mainly Crataegus monogyna Jacq. (Lindm.) and Crataegus laevigata (Poir.) DC (synonym Crataegus oxyacantha L.) are used, but worldwide, other Crataegus species are also used. Phytotherapeutic preparations with a standardised content of flavonoids and/or oligomeric procyanidins are commercially available. The products are generally considered as safe and are at most associated with minor and atypical adverse reactions. The aim of this study was to critically assess the information about the safety of Crataegus-containing products in humans. Methods: A scoping review of the literature about adverse reactions associated with Crataegus-containing products was performed. Next, individual case safety reports (ICSRs) were assessed, which were included in VigiBase (the World Health Organisation’s global database of adverse event reports for medicines and vaccines) and in the database of the Netherlands Pharmacovigilance Centre Lareb. The findings are discussed in relation to the literature. Results: The scoping review yielded 23 clinical studies with single-herb and 14 with multi-herb preparations, from which only a few minor gastrointestinal and cardiac events had been reported. A total of 1527 reports from VigiBase, from 1970 to 2023, were analysed, as well as 13 reports from Lareb. The most frequently reported adverse reactions belonged to the system organ classes ‘gastrointestinal disorders’, ‘skin and subcutaneous tissue disorders’, ‘general disorders and administration site conditions’, ‘cardiac disorders’ or ‘nervous system disorders’. In 277 reports of VigiBase, a single-herb product was the only suspect for causing the adverse reaction(s). Of these, 12.6% were graded as serious. Conclusions: The results of our study provide deeper insight in the adverse reaction profile of Crataegus-containing products and should contribute to their safe application in the treatment of less severe forms of cardiac failure. Full article

Arnica L. genus (Asteraceae) comprises perennial herbs native to the temperate and boreal parts of the northern hemisphere. Arnica montana is the main species. It shows different biological activities, such as antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, antifungal, and antitumor effects. The Arnica formulations are mainly used for pain management. This systematic review is aimed at summarizing the studies focusing on the use of Arnica products on pain and inflammatory signs due to traumatic injuries related to sport and surgical interventions as well as to arthritis and other inflammatory conditions. Both phytotherapeutic and homeopathic formulations are taken into account. This paper only includes manuscripts published in mainstream journals. A literature search from Scopus, Web of Science, and PubMed databases has been carried out using a combination of the keywords “Arnica”, “trauma”, “sport”, “injury”, “injuries”, and “pain”. According to the search strategy and inclusion criteria for this study, 42 eligible papers, focusing on both Arnica alone and formulations containing a mixture of plant extracts, have been finally selected. This review critically discusses the in vitro, in vivo, and clinical studies dealing with Arnica products, reporting both positive and negative outcomes, thus providing perspectives for future research on the plant pharmacological potential. Full article

Periodontitis affects up to 40% of adults over 60 years old and is a consequence of gingivitis. Periodontitis is characterized by a chronic inflammation, periodontal damage, and alveolar bone resorption. The nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (NFE2L2 or NRF2)/Kelch-like ECH-Associated Protein 1 (KEAP1) (NRF2/KEAP1) signaling pathway plays a key role in periodontitis by modulating redox balance and inflammation of the periodontium. However, NRF2 expression is decreased in gingival tissues of patients with periodontitis while oxidative stress is significantly increased in this pathology. Oxidative stress and lipopolysaccharide (LPS) produced by gram-negative bacteria favor the production of inflammatory causing periodontal inflammation and favoring alveolar bone. In this review, we analyzed the current literature regarding the role of natural and synthetic compounds in modulating the NRF2/KEAP1 pathway in in vitro and in vivo models of periodontitis in order to evaluate new potential treatments of periodontitis that can improve the outcome of this disease. Full article