Pharmacological and Toxicological Study of Medicinal Plants

A special issue of Plants (ISSN 2223-7747). This special issue belongs to the section "Phytochemistry".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: closed (31 October 2022) | Viewed by 90855

Special Issue Editors

Herbal Medicine Resources Research Center, Korea Institute of Oriental Medicine, Naju-si 58245, Jeollanam-do, Korea
Interests: Herbal Medicine; immune disorder; allergic inflammation; respiratory disease; metabolic disorder
Herbal Medicine Resources Research Center, Korea Institute of Oriental Medicine, Naju-si 58245, Jeollanam-do, Korea
Interests: anti-oxidant, anti-inflammation, natural product efficacy, toxicology

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

Natural products isolated from plants have been used as a major source of therapeutic development. For improving quality of life and managing chronic disorders, medicinal plants are receiving a lot of attention as complementary therapeutics. Various plants are being used under ethnopharmacological evidence as name of Traditional Medicine, but biological understanding of their effectiveness and mechanism of action is insufficient. In addition, the WHO has launched a Traditional Medicine Strategy (2014–2023), which aims to ensure the efficacy, safety and quality of traditional medicines. Unlike the development of synthetic drugs, most countries do not have or have simplified regulations on the validation of the efficacy and safety of natural drugs. Plants, which have bioactivity, contain multiple compounds which are responsible for their efficacy and toxicity.

For all these reasons, this Special Issue aims to invite researchers to contribute original articles and reviews articles which provide pharmacological and toxicological evidences of medicinal plants and there bioactive components. To ensure the quality of the articles in the special issue, the chemical profiles of plants extracts and the mechanism of efficacy should be included.

Dr. Yun-Soo Seo
Dr. Joong-Sun Kim
Guest Editors

Manuscript Submission Information

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Keywords

  • medicinal plants
  • plants extract
  • phytotherapy
  • efficacy
  • toxicity
  • pharmacology
  • immunology
  • phytochemicals
  • bioactive compounds

Published Papers (30 papers)

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9 pages, 2185 KiB  
Article
Anti-Microbial Activity of Aliphatic Alcohols from Chinese Black Cardamom (Amomum tsao-ko) against Mycobacterium tuberculosis H37Rv
by So Young Lee, Gauri S. Shetye, So-Ri Son, Hyun Lee, Larry L. Klein, Jeffrey K. Yoshihara, Rui Ma, Scott G. Franzblau, Sanghyun Cho and Dae Sik Jang
Plants 2023, 12(1), 34; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants12010034 - 21 Dec 2022
Viewed by 998
Abstract
The fruits of Amomun tsao-ko (Chinese black cardamom; Zingiberaceae) contain an abundance of essential oils, which have previously demonstrated significant antimicrobial activity. In our preliminary search for natural anti-tuberculosis agents, an acetone extract of A. tsao-ko (AAE) exhibited strong antibacterial [...] Read more.
The fruits of Amomun tsao-ko (Chinese black cardamom; Zingiberaceae) contain an abundance of essential oils, which have previously demonstrated significant antimicrobial activity. In our preliminary search for natural anti-tuberculosis agents, an acetone extract of A. tsao-ko (AAE) exhibited strong antibacterial activity against Mycobacterium tuberculosis H37Rv. Therefore, the aim of this study was to find the principal compounds in an AAE against M. tuberculosis. Nine aliphatic compounds (19) including a new compound (1, tsaokol B) and a new natural unsaturated aliphatic diester (6), together with three acyclic terpenoids (1012), were isolated from an AAE by repetitive chromatography. The structures of the isolates were determined by spectroscopic data analysis. All isolates were evaluated for activity against M. tuberculosis H37Rv. Isolated compounds 16, and 11 had MICs ranging from 0.6–89 µg/mL. In contrast, compounds 7 to 10, and 12 had MICs that were >100 µg/mL. Tsaokol A (3) was the most active compound with MICs of 0.6 µg/mL and 1.4 µg/mL, respectively, against replicating and nonreplicating M. tuberculosis. These results are the first to illustrate the potency of tsaokol A (3) as a natural drug candidate with good selectivity for treating tuberculosis. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Pharmacological and Toxicological Study of Medicinal Plants)
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14 pages, 3474 KiB  
Article
Hematopoietic Effects of Angelica gigas Nakai Extract on Cyclophosphamide-Induced Myelosuppression
by Mincheol Kang, Seojin Park, Yuseong Chung, Je-Oh Lim, Jae Seon Kang and Jun Hong Park
Plants 2022, 11(24), 3476; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants11243476 - 12 Dec 2022
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1460
Abstract
Myelosuppression is a major adverse effect of chemotherapy. With the increasing number of cancer patients worldwide, there is a growing interest in therapeutic approaches that reduce the adverse effects of chemotherapy. Angelica gigas Nakai (AGN) roots have been widely used in oriental medicine [...] Read more.
Myelosuppression is a major adverse effect of chemotherapy. With the increasing number of cancer patients worldwide, there is a growing interest in therapeutic approaches that reduce the adverse effects of chemotherapy. Angelica gigas Nakai (AGN) roots have been widely used in oriental medicine to treat blood-related diseases, including cancer. However, the effects of AGN on myelosuppression have not been studied. Here, we investigated the effects of AGN ethanol extract (AGNEX) on cyclophosphamide-induced myelosuppression. AGNEX treatment significantly decreased white blood cell levels while increasing red blood cell and platelet levels in the peripheral blood. It inhibited thymus and spleen atrophy. It also enhanced serum levels of interleukin (IL)-6 and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α. qRT-PCR results showed that AGNEX decreased the expression of IL-1b and stem cell factor (SCF) in the bone marrow (BM) while increasing the mRNA expression of IL-3 and IL-6 in the spleen. Although AGNEX did not significantly decrease apoptosis and cell cycle arrest in the BM and splenocytes, AGNEX plays a positive role in cyclophosphamide-induced myelosuppression. AGNEX administration increased BM cells in the femur while decreasing apoptotic BM cells. These findings suggest that AGNEX could be used to treat myelosuppression and as a combination therapy in cancer patients. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Pharmacological and Toxicological Study of Medicinal Plants)
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15 pages, 2944 KiB  
Article
Echinops spinosissimus Turra Root Methanolic Extract: Characterization of the Bioactive Components and Relative Wound Healing, Antimicrobial and Antioxidant Properties
by Saida Hanane Zitouni-Nourine, Nabila Belyagoubi-Benhammou, Fatima El-Houaria Zitouni-Haouar, Omar Douahi, Faouzia Chenafi, Habiba Fetati, Siham Chabane Sari, Assia Benmahieddine, Chahinez Zaoui, Fatima Zohra Nadjet Mekaouche, Fawzia Atik Bekkara, Nadia Kambouche, Angelo Gismondi and Houari Toumi
Plants 2022, 11(24), 3440; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants11243440 - 09 Dec 2022
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1688
Abstract
Echinops spinosissimus Turra subsp. bovei (Asteraceae) is a medicinal plant in western Algeria. Traditionally, roots and inflorescences are employed as hypertensive agents and in the treatment of hemorrhoids. The current study evaluates the chemical composition, antioxidant, antimicrobial, and wound-healing properties of the root [...] Read more.
Echinops spinosissimus Turra subsp. bovei (Asteraceae) is a medicinal plant in western Algeria. Traditionally, roots and inflorescences are employed as hypertensive agents and in the treatment of hemorrhoids. The current study evaluates the chemical composition, antioxidant, antimicrobial, and wound-healing properties of the root methanolic extract from E. spinosissimus subsp. bovei. The content of total phenolics, flavonoids, and tannins was determined. In addition, the phenolic profile was typified. The studied plant extract resulted in being primarily composed of Apigenin, Kaempferol, and their derivatives. The total phenolic content was equal to 95.31 ± 2.90 mg GAE/g DW, while the number of flavonoids and condensed tannins was 16.01 ± 0.16 mg CE/g DW and 8.30 ± 0.65 mg CE/g DW, respectively. The methanolic extract was found to exhibit antioxidant activity towards the DPPH radical, with an IC50 of 7.99 ± 0.28 mg/mL and a TAC of 30.30 ± 0.54 mg AAE/g DW, as well as an antibacterial effect, especially against P. aeruginosa. No significant wound-healing property was observed, even though the histopathological observations showed enhanced wound-healing quality. According to our evidence, E. spinosissimus could represent a source of phytochemicals with potential beneficial effects for human health in terms of antioxidant and antibiotic properties, although further investigations on this species are needed. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Pharmacological and Toxicological Study of Medicinal Plants)
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14 pages, 3216 KiB  
Article
Potentilloside A, a New Flavonol-bis-Glucuronide from the Leaves of Potentilla chinensis, Inhibits TNF-α-Induced ROS Generation and MMP-1 Secretion
by So Young Lee, Yea Jung Choi, So-Ri Son, Young-Seo Yoon, Sun-Hee Lee, Kyung-Tae Lee, Sullim Lee and Dae Sik Jang
Plants 2022, 11(23), 3318; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants11233318 - 01 Dec 2022
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1569
Abstract
The major contributor to skin aging is UV radiation, which activates pro-inflammatory cytokines including TNF-α. TNF-α is involved in the acceleration of skin aging via ROS generation and MMP-1 secretion. In our preliminary study, a 30% EtOH extract from the leaves of Potentilla [...] Read more.
The major contributor to skin aging is UV radiation, which activates pro-inflammatory cytokines including TNF-α. TNF-α is involved in the acceleration of skin aging via ROS generation and MMP-1 secretion. In our preliminary study, a 30% EtOH extract from the leaves of Potentilla chinensis (LPCE) significantly inhibited TNF-α-induced ROS generation in human dermal fibroblasts (HDFs). Therefore, the objective of this study is to identify the active components in LPCE. A new flavonol-bis-glucuronide (potentilloside A, 1) and 14 known compounds (215) were isolated from an LPCE by repeated chromatography. The chemical structure of the new compound 1 was determined by analyzing its spectroscopic data (NMR and HRMS) and by acidic hydrolysis. Nine flavonols (29 and 11) and two flavone glycosides (12 and 13) from P. chinensis were reported for the first time in this study. Next, we evaluated the effects of the isolates (115) on TNF-α-induced ROS generation in HDFs. As a result, all compounds significantly inhibited ROS generation. Furthermore, LPCE and potentilloside A (1) remarkably suppressed MMP-1 secretion in HDFs stimulated by TNF-α. The data suggested that LPCE and potentilloside A (1) are worthy of further experiments for their potential as anti-skin aging agents. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Pharmacological and Toxicological Study of Medicinal Plants)
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15 pages, 3155 KiB  
Article
Molecular Mechanisms Underlying Qi-Invigorating Effects in Traditional Medicine: Network Pharmacology-Based Study on the Unique Functions of Qi-Invigorating Herb Group
by Minh Nhat Tran, Soyoung Kim, Quynh Hoang Ngan Nguyen and Sanghun Lee
Plants 2022, 11(19), 2470; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants11192470 - 21 Sep 2022
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2655
Abstract
Qi-invigorating herbs (QIHs) are a group of herbs that invigorate Qi, the most vital force for maintaining the physiological functions of the human body in traditional medicine. However, the mechanism underlying the Qi-invigorating effects remains unclear. This study aimed to elucidate the unique [...] Read more.
Qi-invigorating herbs (QIHs) are a group of herbs that invigorate Qi, the most vital force for maintaining the physiological functions of the human body in traditional medicine. However, the mechanism underlying the Qi-invigorating effects remains unclear. This study aimed to elucidate the unique mechanisms of QIHs based on unique compounds, using a network pharmacology approach. QIHs and their compounds were identified using existing literature and the TCMSP database, respectively. Subsequently, a method was proposed to screen for unique compounds that are common in QIHs but rare in other traditional herbs. Unique compounds’ targets were predicted using the TCMSP, BATMAN-TCM, and SwissTargetPrediction databases. Finally, enriched GO and KEGG pathways were obtained using DAVID to uncover the biomolecular functions and mechanisms. Thirteen unique compounds, mainly including amino acids and vitamins that participate in energy metabolism and improve Qi deficiency syndrome, were identified among the eight QIHs. GO and KEGG pathway analyses revealed that these compounds commonly participate in neuroactive ligand–receptor interaction and the metabolism of amino acids, and are related to the components of mitochondria and neuronal cells. Our results appropriately reflect the characteristics of traditional Qi-invigorating effects; therefore, this study facilitates the scientific interpretation of Qi functions and provides evidence regarding the treatment effectiveness of QIHs. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Pharmacological and Toxicological Study of Medicinal Plants)
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18 pages, 14536 KiB  
Article
Walking around the Autonomous Province of Trento (Italy): An Ethnobotanical Investigation
by Valeria Cavalloro, Francesco Saverio Robustelli della Cuna, Elena Quai, Stefania Preda, Francesco Bracco, Emanuela Martino and Simona Collina
Plants 2022, 11(17), 2246; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants11172246 - 29 Aug 2022
Cited by 5 | Viewed by 1574
Abstract
The Trentino-South Tyrol region is a special statute region of northeastern Italy. This territory is of particular interest for its morphology, flourishing vegetation, and history, having been a meeting area among different civilizations. Hence, Trentino is characterized by an ethnic plurality and a [...] Read more.
The Trentino-South Tyrol region is a special statute region of northeastern Italy. This territory is of particular interest for its morphology, flourishing vegetation, and history, having been a meeting area among different civilizations. Hence, Trentino is characterized by an ethnic plurality and a rich ethnobotanical knowledge, even if the available information is fragmentary, widely dispersed, and often guarded in oral popular culture. To fill this gap, in the present work 200 subjects were interviewed using an ethnobotanical survey. The resulting 817 citations referred to 64 native species, used either for human or animal health or for domestic purposes. As a second step, for each plant exploited for medicinal purposes, local importance was evaluated by calculating their relative frequency of citation. Moreover, the main traditional preparations were discussed. Among them, the most cited and exploited ones are Achillea millefolium, Arnica montana, Hypericum perforatum, Malva sylvestris, Pinus mugo, and Satureja montana, for which a deeper analysis has been performed. Lastly, the ethnobotanical knowledge of the plants growing in this territory will add a piece to the mosaic of traditional medicine in Italy and may lay the foundation for a nature-aided drug discovery process. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Pharmacological and Toxicological Study of Medicinal Plants)
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20 pages, 2590 KiB  
Article
In Vitro and In Silico Screening of Anti-Vibrio spp., Antibiofilm, Antioxidant and Anti-Quorum Sensing Activities of Cuminum cyminum L. Volatile Oil
by Siwar Ghannay, Kaïss Aouadi, Adel Kadri and Mejdi Snoussi
Plants 2022, 11(17), 2236; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants11172236 - 29 Aug 2022
Cited by 7 | Viewed by 1684
Abstract
Cuminum cyminum L. essential oil (cumin EO) was studied for its chemical composition, antioxidant and vibriocidal activities. Inhibition of biofilm formation and secretion of some virulence properties controlled by the quorum sensing system in Chromobacterium violaceum and Pseudomonas aeruginosa strains were also reported. [...] Read more.
Cuminum cyminum L. essential oil (cumin EO) was studied for its chemical composition, antioxidant and vibriocidal activities. Inhibition of biofilm formation and secretion of some virulence properties controlled by the quorum sensing system in Chromobacterium violaceum and Pseudomonas aeruginosa strains were also reported. The obtained results showed that cuminaldehyde (44.2%) was the dominant compound followed by β-pinene (15.1%), γ-terpinene (14.4%), and p-cymene (14.2%). Using the disc diffusion assay, cumin EO (10 mg/disc) was particularly active against all fifteen Vibrio species, and the highest diameter of growth inhibition zone was recorded against Vibrio fluvialis (41.33 ± 1.15 mm), Vibrio parahaemolyticus (39.67 ± 0.58 mm), and Vibrio natrigens (36.67 ± 0.58 mm). At low concentration (MICs value from 0.023–0.046 mg/mL), cumin EO inhibited the growth of all Vibrio strains, and concentrations as low as 1.5 mg/mL were necessary to kill them (MBCs values from 1.5–12 mg/mL). Using four antioxidant assays, cumin EO exhibited a good result as compared to standard molecules (DPPH = 8 ± 0.54 mg/mL; reducing power = 3.5 ± 0.38 mg/mL; β-carotene = 3.8 ± 0.34 mg/mL; chelating power = 8.4 ± 0.14 mg/mL). More interestingly, at 2x MIC value, cumin EO inhibited the formation of biofilm by Vibrio alginolyticus (9.96 ± 1%), V. parahaemolyticus (15.45 ± 0.7%), Vibrio cholerae (14.9 ± 0.4%), and Vibrio vulnificus (18.14 ± 0.3%). In addition, cumin EO and cuminaldehyde inhibited the production of violacein on Lauria Bertani medium (19 mm and 35 mm, respectively). Meanwhile, 50% of violacein inhibition concentration (VIC50%) was about 2.746 mg/mL for cumin EO and 1.676 mg/mL for cuminaldehyde. Moreover, elastase and protease production and flagellar motility in P. aeruginosa were inhibited at low concentrations of cumin EO and cuminaldehyde. The adopted in-silico approach revealed good ADMET properties as well as a high binding score of the main compounds with target proteins (1JIJ, 2UV0, 1HD2, and 3QP1). Overall, the obtained results highlighted the effectiveness of cumin EO to prevent spoilage with Vibrio species and to interfere with the quorum sensing system in Gram-negative bacteria by inhibiting the flagellar motility, formation of biofilm, and the secretion of some virulence enzymes. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Pharmacological and Toxicological Study of Medicinal Plants)
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21 pages, 4281 KiB  
Article
Network Pharmacology-Based Investigation on Therapeutic Mechanisms of the Angelica dahurica Radix and Ligusticum chuanxiong Rhizoma Herb Pair for Anti-Migraine Effect
by Chu Duc Thanh, Chu Van Men, Hyung Min Kim and Jong Seong Kang
Plants 2022, 11(17), 2196; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants11172196 - 24 Aug 2022
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2181
Abstract
Migraines are a common neurological disorder characterized by desperate throbbing unilateral headaches and are related to phonophobia, photophobia, nausea, and vomiting. The Angelica dahurica Radix and Ligusticum chuanxiong Rhizoma herb pair (ALHP) has been used to treat migraines for centuries in traditional Chinese [...] Read more.
Migraines are a common neurological disorder characterized by desperate throbbing unilateral headaches and are related to phonophobia, photophobia, nausea, and vomiting. The Angelica dahurica Radix and Ligusticum chuanxiong Rhizoma herb pair (ALHP) has been used to treat migraines for centuries in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM). However, the physiological mechanisms of migraine treatment have not yet been elucidated. In this study, a total of 50 hub targets related to the effect of 28 bioactive compounds in ALHP on anti-migraine were obtained through network pharmacology analysis. GO and KEGG analyses of the hub targets demonstrated that ALHP treatment of migraines significantly involved the G-protein-coupled receptor signaling pathway, chemical synaptic transmission, inflammatory response, and other biological processes. According to the degree of gene targets in the network, ACE, SLC3A6, NR3CI, MAPK1, PTGS2, PIK3CA, RELA, GRIN1, GRM5, IL1B, and DRD2 were found to be the core gene targets. The docking results showed a high affinity for docked conformations between compounds and predicted targets. The results of this study suggest that ALHP could treat migraines by regulating immunological functions, diminishing inflammation, and improving immunity through different physiological pathways, which contributes to the scientific base for more in-depth research as well as for a more widespread clinical application of ALHP. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Pharmacological and Toxicological Study of Medicinal Plants)
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31 pages, 1942 KiB  
Article
Chemical Composition of Various Nepeta cataria Plant Organs’ Methanol Extracts Associated with In Vivo Hepatoprotective and Antigenotoxic Features as well as Molecular Modeling Investigations
by Milena D. Vukić, Nenad L. Vuković, Milan Mladenović, Nevena Tomašević, Sanja Matić, Snežana Stanić, Filippo Sapienza, Rino Ragno, Mijat Božović and Miroslava Kačániová
Plants 2022, 11(16), 2114; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants11162114 - 14 Aug 2022
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2148
Abstract
This report summarizes the chemical composition analysis of Nepeta cataria L. flower, leaf, and stem methanol extracts (FME, LME, SME, respectively) as well as their hepatoprotective and antigenotoxic features in vivo and in silico. Herein, Wistar rat liver intoxication with CCl4 [...] Read more.
This report summarizes the chemical composition analysis of Nepeta cataria L. flower, leaf, and stem methanol extracts (FME, LME, SME, respectively) as well as their hepatoprotective and antigenotoxic features in vivo and in silico. Herein, Wistar rat liver intoxication with CCl4 resulted in the generation of trichloromethyl and trichloromethylperoxy radicals, causing lipid peroxidation within the hepatocyte membranes (viz. hepatotoxicity), as well as the subsequent formation of aberrant rDNA adducts and consequent double-strand break (namely genotoxicity). Examined FME, LME, and SME administered orally to Wistar rats before the injection of CCl4 exerted the most notable pharmacological properties in the concentrations of 200, 100, and 50 mg/kg of body weight, respectively. Thus, the extracts’ hepatoprotective features were determined by monitoring the catalytic activities of enzymes and the concentrations of reactive oxidative species, modulating the liver redox status. Furthermore, the necrosis of hepatocytes was assessed by means of catalytic activities of liver toxicity markers. The extracts’ antigenotoxic features were quantified using the comet assay. Distinct pharmacological property features may be attributed to quercitrin (8406.31 μg/g), chlorogenic acid (1647.32 μg/g), and quinic acid (536.11 μg/g), found within the FME, rosmarinic acid (1056.14 μg/g), and chlorogenic acid (648.52 μg/g), occurring within the LME, and chlorogenic acid (1408.43 μg/g), the most abundant in SME. Hence, the plant’s secondary metabolites were individually administered similar to extracts, upon which their pharmacology in vivo was elucidated in silico by means of the structure-based studies within rat catalase, as a redox marker, and rat topoisomerase IIα, an enzyme catalyzing the rat DNA double-strand break. Conclusively, the examined N. cataria extracts in specified concentrations could be used in clinical therapy for the prevention of toxin-induced liver diseases. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Pharmacological and Toxicological Study of Medicinal Plants)
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36 pages, 8745 KiB  
Article
Novel Neuroprotective Potential of Bunchosia armeniaca (Cav.) DC against Lipopolysaccharide Induced Alzheimer’s Disease in Mice
by Haidy A. Abbas, Ahmed M. Salama, Sayed A. El-Toumy, Abeer A. A. Salama, Soad H. Tadros and Rania A. El Gedaily
Plants 2022, 11(14), 1792; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants11141792 - 07 Jul 2022
Cited by 5 | Viewed by 2663
Abstract
Bunchosia armeniaca (Cav.) DC (Malpighiaceae) is one of the well-known traditionally used remedies worldwide. This study aims to explore the leaves’ metabolome via Quadrupole-Time-of-Flight-Liquid-Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry and to investigate the neuroprotective effect of leaves using lipopolysaccharide (LPS) induced Alzheimer’s disease model. Mice were administered [...] Read more.
Bunchosia armeniaca (Cav.) DC (Malpighiaceae) is one of the well-known traditionally used remedies worldwide. This study aims to explore the leaves’ metabolome via Quadrupole-Time-of-Flight-Liquid-Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry and to investigate the neuroprotective effect of leaves using lipopolysaccharide (LPS) induced Alzheimer’s disease model. Mice were administered LPS (0.25 mg/kg/day; intraperitoneal) as well as methanolic extract (BME), dichloromethane (BDMF), and butanol (BBF) fractions (each 200 mg/kg/day; oral) for one week. BME and BBF improved behavioral activity on the Y maze test, decreased brain content of inflammatory markers such as nuclear factor kappa B and interleukin 1 beta, and prevented the elevation of cytochrome P450 2E1, and glial fibrillary acidic protein compared to the LPS-administered group. Histopathological examination of several brain parts confirmed the neuroprotective effect of the tested extracts. In addition, BBF exhibited higher activity in all tested in vitro antioxidant and acetylcholinesterase inhibition assays. Metabolic profiling offered tentative identification of 88 metabolites, including mainly flavonoids, phenolic acids, and coumarins. Several detected metabolites, such as quercetin, apigenin, baicalin, vitexin, and resveratrol, had previously known neuroprotective effects. The current study highlighted the possible novel potential of B. armeniaca in preventing memory impairment, possibly through its antioxidant effect and inhibition of acetylcholinesterase, inflammatory and oxidative stress mediators. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Pharmacological and Toxicological Study of Medicinal Plants)
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10 pages, 1117 KiB  
Article
Dual Inhibition of Phosphodiesterase and Ca++ Channels Explains the Medicinal Use of Balanites aegyptiaca (L.) in Hyperactive Gut Disorders
by Najeeb Ur Rehman, Mohd Nazam Ansari, Wasim Ahmad and Syed Rizwan Ahamad
Plants 2022, 11(9), 1183; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants11091183 - 27 Apr 2022
Cited by 7 | Viewed by 1684
Abstract
The present study attempted to evaluate and rationalize the medicinal use of the methanolic extract of the fruits of Balanites aegyptiaca (B. aegyptiaca) in the treatment of hyperactive gut disorders. The in vivo, castor oil-induced diarrhea model in mice was followed [...] Read more.
The present study attempted to evaluate and rationalize the medicinal use of the methanolic extract of the fruits of Balanites aegyptiaca (B. aegyptiaca) in the treatment of hyperactive gut disorders. The in vivo, castor oil-induced diarrhea model in mice was followed to test its antidiarrheal effect. To test the antispasmodic effect and to explore its pharmacodynamic details, isolated small intestines (ileum) obtained from rats were selected to provide physiological conditions for the ex vivo assays. In the in vivo assays, the orally administered extract of B. aegyptiaca protected mice from diarrheal drops with resultant percent inhibitions of 40% and 80% at the respective doses of 200 mg/kg and 400 mg/kg, while the highest protection (100%) was observed with a positive control drug, loperamide, at 10 mg/kg. In the ileum, B. aegyptiaca produced an antispasmodic effect in a concentration-dependent manner by inhibiting the carbachol (CCh; 1 µM) and high K+ (80 mM)-evoked spasms with resultant EC50 values of 1.44 mg/mL (1.08–1.78) and 1.27 mg/mL (0.98–1.66), respectively. Papaverine, a known phosphodiesterase enzyme (PDE) inhibitor and blocker of Ca++ channels (CCB), also inhibited both CCh and high K+ induced contractions at comparable EC50 values of 8.72 µM (7.92–9.24) and 8.14 µM (7.62–8.84), respectively. Contrary to the extract and papaverine, verapamil showed distinctly higher potency in regard to inhibiting high K+, compared to CCh-evoked spasms that had EC50 values of 0.16 µM (0.13–0.261) and 2.54 µM (2.28–2.92), respectively. The inhibitory effects of B. aegyptiaca on PDE were further confirmed when the pre-incubated extract shifted the isoprenaline-mediated relaxation curves (CRCs) towards the left, similar to papaverine, whereas the CCB-like effect was confirmed when the pre-incubated tissues with B. aegyptiaca caused deflection in the Ca++ CRCs towards the right, constructed in Ca++ free medium with suppression of the maximum response. Thus, this study provides detailed, mechanistic support for the medicinal use of B. aegyptiaca in the treatment of hyperactive gut disorders. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Pharmacological and Toxicological Study of Medicinal Plants)
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20 pages, 4219 KiB  
Article
Anti-Obesity Action of Boerhavia diffusa in Rats against High-Fat Diet-Induced Obesity by Blocking the Cannabinoid Receptors
by Mohammad Khalid, Mohammed H. Alqarni, Ambreen Shoaib, Shadma Wahab, Ahmed I. Foudah, Tariq M. Aljarba, Juber Akhtar, Mubarak A. Alamri and Sarfaraz Ahmad
Plants 2022, 11(9), 1158; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants11091158 - 25 Apr 2022
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2343
Abstract
Obesity, type 2 diabetes, and cardiovascular illnesses have known risk factors in the pathophysiology of an unhealthy diet. Obesity now affects almost a third of the world’s population and is widely seen as a side effect of the Industrial Revolution. The current study [...] Read more.
Obesity, type 2 diabetes, and cardiovascular illnesses have known risk factors in the pathophysiology of an unhealthy diet. Obesity now affects almost a third of the world’s population and is widely seen as a side effect of the Industrial Revolution. The current study aimed to determine natural phytoconstituents that have a significant role in the management of obesity. In this view, we have selected the plant Boerhavia diffusa which has different pharmacological actions and is traditionally used to treat sickness caused by lifestyle modification. The methanolic extract of the plant material was prepared and then further fractionated by means of solvents (n-hexane, chloroform, n-butanol, and water). The absorption, distribution, metabolism, excretion, and toxicity (ADMET) analysis was done by taking the active constituent of the plant (Punarnavine, Boeravinone B, and Eupalitin). The molecular docking analysis of these compounds is also performed by targeting the cannabinoid receptor (CR). Structural analysis of the best complex was done using the Discovery Studio visualizer tool. High-performance thin-layer chromatography (HPTLC) analysis was done by using a solvent system (chloroform and methanol in a ratio of 8:2). The in vivo study was done on the Sprague–Dawley (SD) rats treated with a high-fat diet to induce obesity and different parameters such as body weight, behavioral activity, organ fat pad weight, lipid profile, and liver biomarkers (AST, ALT, BUN, and creatinine) were estimated. The result of the study suggested that the phytoconstituents of B. diffusa upon molecular docking revealed the possible binding mechanisms with the CR and thus show potent anti-obesity action. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Pharmacological and Toxicological Study of Medicinal Plants)
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16 pages, 3104 KiB  
Article
Phytochemical Profiling, Antimicrobial and α-Glucosidase Inhibitory Potential of Phenolic-Enriched Extracts of the Aerial Parts from Echium humile Desf.: In Vitro Combined with In Silico Approach
by Kaïss Aouadi, Hafedh Hajlaoui, Soumaya Arraouadi, Siwar Ghannay, Mejdi Snoussi and Adel Kadri
Plants 2022, 11(9), 1131; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants11091131 - 21 Apr 2022
Cited by 5 | Viewed by 1546
Abstract
The current study aimed to evaluate the naturally occurring antimicrobial and antidiabetic potential of various Echium humile (E. humile) solvent extracts (hexane, dichloromethane, ethyl acetate, methanol and aqueous). The bioactive compounds were identified using HPLC–MS, revealing the presence of sixteen phytochemical [...] Read more.
The current study aimed to evaluate the naturally occurring antimicrobial and antidiabetic potential of various Echium humile (E. humile) solvent extracts (hexane, dichloromethane, ethyl acetate, methanol and aqueous). The bioactive compounds were identified using HPLC–MS, revealing the presence of sixteen phytochemical compounds, with the most abundant being p-coumaric acid, followed by 4,5-di-O-caffeoylquinic acid, trans-ferulic acid and acacetin. Furthermore, E. humile extracts showed marked antimicrobial properties against human pathogen strains, with MIC values for the most relevant extracts (methanol and ethyl acetate) ranging from 0.19 to 6.25 mg/mL and 0.39 to 12.50 mg/mL, respectively. Likewise, methanol was found to be bactericidal towards S. aureus, B. cereus and M. luteus, fungicidal against P. catenulatum and F. oxysporum and have a bacteriostatic/fungicidal effect for the other strains. In addition, the E. humile methanolic extract had the greatest α-glucosidase inhibitory effect (IC50 = 0.06 ± 0.29 mg/mL), which is higher than the standard drug, acarbose (IC50 = 0.80 ± 1.81 mg/mL) and the aqueous extract (IC50 = 0.70 ± 0.67 mg/mL). A correlation study between the major phytochemicals and the evaluated activities was investigated. Docking studies evidenced that most of the identified phenolic compounds showed strong interactions into the binding sites of S. aureus tyrosyl-tRNA synthetase and human lysosomal acid-α-glucosidase, confirming their suitable inhibitory effect. In summary, these results may provide rational support to explore the clinical efficacy of E. humile and its secondary metabolites in the treatment of dual diabetes and infections. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Pharmacological and Toxicological Study of Medicinal Plants)
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25 pages, 6367 KiB  
Article
GC-MS Profiling, Vibriocidal, Antioxidant, Antibiofilm, and Anti-Quorum Sensing Properties of Carum carvi L. Essential Oil: In Vitro and In Silico Approaches
by Siwar Ghannay, Kaïss Aouadi, Adel Kadri and Mejdi Snoussi
Plants 2022, 11(8), 1072; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants11081072 - 14 Apr 2022
Cited by 14 | Viewed by 2256
Abstract
The main objectives of the present study were to investigate anti-Vibrio spp., antibiofilms, and anti-quorum-sensing (anti-QS) properties of caraway essential oil in relation to their phytochemical composition. The results obtained show the identification of twelve compounds, with carvone (58.2%) and limonene (38.5%) [...] Read more.
The main objectives of the present study were to investigate anti-Vibrio spp., antibiofilms, and anti-quorum-sensing (anti-QS) properties of caraway essential oil in relation to their phytochemical composition. The results obtained show the identification of twelve compounds, with carvone (58.2%) and limonene (38.5%) being the main ones. The obtained essential oil (EO) is particularly active against all Vibrio spp. species, with bacteriostatic action against all tested strains (MBC/MIC ratio ≥ 4) and with inhibition zones with high diameters of growth, ranging from 8.66 ± 0.58 mm for V. furnisii ATCC 35016 to 37.33 ± 0.58 mm for V. alginolyticus ATCC 17749. Caraway essential oil (Carvone/limonene chemotype) exhibits antioxidant activities by using four tests (DPPH = 15 ± 0.23 mg/mL; reducing power = 7.8 ± 0.01 mg/mL; β-carotene = 3.9 ± 0.025 mg/mL; chelating power = 6.8 ± 0.05 mg/mL). This oil is particularly able to prevent cell-to-cell communication by inhibiting swarming motility, production of elastase and protease in Pseudomonas aeruginosa PAO1, and violacein production in C. violaceum in a concentration-dependent manner. A molecular docking approach shows good interaction of the identified bioactive molecules in caraway EO, with known target enzymes involved in antioxidant, antibacterial, and anti-QS activities having high binding energy. Overall, the obtained results highlight the possible use of caraway essential oil against pathogenic Vibrio species and to attenuate the secretion of virulence-related factors controlled by QS systems in Gram-negative bacteria. Therefore, this oil can be used by food industries to prevent biofilm formation on abiotic surfaces by Vibrio strains. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Pharmacological and Toxicological Study of Medicinal Plants)
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11 pages, 2763 KiB  
Article
Systematic Analysis of the Molecular Mechanisms of Cold and Hot Properties of Herbal Medicines
by Sang-Min Park, Su-Jin Baek, Hyo-Jeong Ban, Hee-Jeong Jin and Seongwon Cha
Plants 2022, 11(7), 997; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants11070997 - 06 Apr 2022
Cited by 7 | Viewed by 2112
Abstract
Effective treatments for patients experiencing temperature-related symptoms are limited. The hot and cold effects of traditional herbal medicines have been utilized to treat and manage these symptoms, but their molecular mechanisms are not fully understood. Previous studies with arbitrarily selected herbs and ingredients [...] Read more.
Effective treatments for patients experiencing temperature-related symptoms are limited. The hot and cold effects of traditional herbal medicines have been utilized to treat and manage these symptoms, but their molecular mechanisms are not fully understood. Previous studies with arbitrarily selected herbs and ingredients may have produced biased results. Here, we aim to systematically elucidate the molecular mechanisms of the hot and cold properties of herbal medicines through an unbiased large-scale investigation of herbal ingredients, their target genes, and the transcriptome signatures induced by them. Using data regarding 243 herbs retrieved from two herbal medicine databases, we statistically identify (R)-Linalool, (-)-alpha-pinene, peruviol, (L)-alpha-terpineol, and cymol as five new hot-specific ingredients that share a common target, a norepinephrine transporter. However, no significant ingredients are cold-specific. We also statistically identify 14 hot- and 8 cold-specific new target genes. Pathway enrichment analysis of hot-specific target genes reveals the associated pathways including neurotransmitter reuptake, cold-induced thermogenesis, blood pressure regulation, adrenergic receptor signaling, and cation symporter activity. Cold-specific target genes are associated with the steroid pathway. Transcriptome analysis also shows that hot herbs are more strongly associated with coagulation and synaptic transmission than cold herbs. Our results, obtained from novel connections between herbal ingredients, target genes, and pathways, may contribute to the development of pharmacological treatment strategies for temperature-related pain using medicinal plants. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Pharmacological and Toxicological Study of Medicinal Plants)
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16 pages, 1884 KiB  
Article
Chemical Composition, Antioxidant and Antibacterial Activities of Thymus broussonetii Boiss and Thymus capitatus (L.) Hoffmann and Link Essential Oils
by Imane Tagnaout, Hannou Zerkani, Nadia Hadi, Bouchra El Moumen, Fadoua El Makhoukhi, Mohamed Bouhrim, Rashad Al-Salahi, Fahd A. Nasr, Hamza Mechchate and Touriya Zair
Plants 2022, 11(7), 954; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants11070954 - 31 Mar 2022
Cited by 8 | Viewed by 2284
Abstract
Thymus capitatus and Thymus broussonnetii are two Moroccan endemic medicinal plants used traditionally by the local population. The present study aims to investigate their essential oil chemical composition, antioxidant and antibacterial activities. The chemical composition of the essential oils was determined using the [...] Read more.
Thymus capitatus and Thymus broussonnetii are two Moroccan endemic medicinal plants used traditionally by the local population. The present study aims to investigate their essential oil chemical composition, antioxidant and antibacterial activities. The chemical composition of the essential oils was determined using the GC-MS analysis, the antioxidant activity assessed using DPPH and FRAP methods while the antimicrobial activity was evaluated against nine bacteria species tested (Enterococcus faecalis, Serratia fonticola, Acinetobacter baumannii, Klebsiella oxytoca, sensitive Klebsiella pneumoniae, sensitive Escherichia coli, resistant Escherichia coli, resistant Staphylococcus aureus and Enterobacter aerogenes). The major identified compounds of T. capitatus essential oil where carvacrol (75%) and p-cymene (10.58%) while carvacrol (60.79%), thymol (12.9%), p-cymene (6.21%) and γ-terpinene (4.47%) are the main compounds in T. broussonnetii essential oil. The bioactivity of the essential oils of the two species of thyme was explained by their richness in oxygenated monoterpenes known for their great effectiveness with an IC50 of 3.48 ± 0.05 and 4.88 ± 0.04 μL/mL and EC50 of 0.12 ± 0.01 and 0.20 ± 0.02 μL/mL in the DPPH and FRAP assays, respectively, with an important antibacterial activity. These results encourage the use of these plants as a source of natural antioxidants, and antibacterial additives, to protect food from oxidative damage and to eliminate bacteria that are responsible for nosocomial infections. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Pharmacological and Toxicological Study of Medicinal Plants)
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18 pages, 35650 KiB  
Article
Oral and Topical Anti-Inflammatory Activity of Jatropha integerrima Leaves Extract in Relation to Its Metabolite Profile
by Engy A. Mahrous, Ahmed H. Elosaily, Abeer A. A. Salama, Ahmed M. Salama and Soheir M. El-Zalabani
Plants 2022, 11(2), 218; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants11020218 - 14 Jan 2022
Cited by 7 | Viewed by 3009
Abstract
Jatropha integerrima Jacq., family: Euphorbiaceae, is used in India and subtropical Africa to treat different skin conditions. In this study we evaluated the anti-inflammatory activity of J. integerrima leaves extract (JILE) using rat paw edema model. The extract was administered orally (200 and [...] Read more.
Jatropha integerrima Jacq., family: Euphorbiaceae, is used in India and subtropical Africa to treat different skin conditions. In this study we evaluated the anti-inflammatory activity of J. integerrima leaves extract (JILE) using rat paw edema model. The extract was administered orally (200 and 400 mg/kg) or applied topically as creams at 2.5, 5, and 10% strength. Four hours post-treatment, maximum reduction of edema volume by 63.09% was observed after oral administration of JILE (400 mg/kg) as compared to indomethacin with 60.43%. The extract anti-inflammatory effect was accompanied by a decrease in NO, prostaglandin PGE2, TNF-α and PKC levels by 19, 29.35, 16.9, and 47.83%, respectively. Additionally, topical applications of JILE showed dose dependent reduction in paw edema and resulted in normalized levels of PGE2, TNF-α, and PKC when used as 10% cream. Signs of inflammations were reduced or absent from paw tissue of animals receiving JILE either orally or topically. Finally, liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry analysis of JILE resulted in the annotation of 133 metabolites including 24 diterpenoids, 19 flavonoids, 10 phenolic acid conjugates, 8 cyclic peptides, 6 phytosterols, 4 sesquiterpenes, and 4 coumarins. Several of the annotated metabolites have known anti-inflammatory activity including vitexin, isovitexin, fraxitin, scopeltin, stigmasterol, and many diterpenoidal derivatives. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Pharmacological and Toxicological Study of Medicinal Plants)
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12 pages, 2626 KiB  
Article
Effects of Dipsacus asperoides and Phlomis umbrosa Extracts in a Rat Model of Osteoarthritis
by Jin Mi Chun, A Yeong Lee, Byeong Cheol Moon, Goya Choi and Joong-Sun Kim
Plants 2021, 10(10), 2030; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants10102030 - 27 Sep 2021
Cited by 8 | Viewed by 2561
Abstract
The implementation of the Nagoya Protocol highlighted the importance of identifying alternative herbal products that are as effective as traditional medicine. Dipsacus asperoides and Phlomis umbrosa, two species used in the Korean medicine ‘Sok-dan’, are used for the treatment of bone- and [...] Read more.
The implementation of the Nagoya Protocol highlighted the importance of identifying alternative herbal products that are as effective as traditional medicine. Dipsacus asperoides and Phlomis umbrosa, two species used in the Korean medicine ‘Sok-dan’, are used for the treatment of bone- and arthritis-related diseases, and they are often mixed or misused. To identify herbal resources with similar efficacy, we compared the effects of D. asperoides extract (DAE) and P. umbrosa extract (PUE) on osteoarthritis (OA) in a monosodium iodoacetate (MIA)-induced OA rat model. Weight-bearing distribution, serum cytokines, histopathological features, and the expression of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) of knee joint tissues were examined in the OA rats treated with DAE and PUE (200 mg/kg) for 21 days. DAE and PUE restored weight-bearing distribution, inhibited the production of serum cytokines, and alleviated the histopathological features of the OA knee tissue. DAE or PUE treatment decreased OA-induced overexpression of MMP-2, MMP-9, and MMP-13 in the knee joint tissue. This study demonstrated the efficacy of both DAE and PUE in an MIA-induced OA model, providing a basis for the clinical use of these products in traditional Korean medicine. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Pharmacological and Toxicological Study of Medicinal Plants)
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18 pages, 2195 KiB  
Article
Antibacterial, Antihemolytic, Cytotoxic, Anticancer, and Antileishmanial Effects of Ajuga bracteosa Transgenic Plants
by Samina Rubnawaz, Mohammad K. Okla, Nosheen Akhtar, Imdad Ullah Khan, Muhammad Zeeshan Bhatti, Hong-Quan Duong, Mohamed A. El-Tayeb, Yahaya B. Elbadawi, Khalid S. Almaary, Ihab M. Moussa, Zahid Khurshid Abbas and Bushra Mirza
Plants 2021, 10(9), 1894; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants10091894 - 13 Sep 2021
Cited by 9 | Viewed by 2839
Abstract
Herbal and traditional medicines can play a pivotal role in combating cancer and neglected tropical diseases. Ajuga bracteosa, family Lamiaceae, is an important medicinal plant. The genetic transformation of A. bracteosa with rol genes of Agrobacterium rhizogenes further enhances its metabolic content. [...] Read more.
Herbal and traditional medicines can play a pivotal role in combating cancer and neglected tropical diseases. Ajuga bracteosa, family Lamiaceae, is an important medicinal plant. The genetic transformation of A. bracteosa with rol genes of Agrobacterium rhizogenes further enhances its metabolic content. This study aimed at undertaking the molecular, phytochemical, and in vitro biological analysis of A. bracteosa extracts. We transformed the A. bracteosa plant with rol genes and raised the regenerants from the hairy roots. Transgenic integration and expression of rolB were confirmed by conventional polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and qPCR analysis. The methanol: chloroform crude extracts of wild-type plants and transgenic regenerants were screened for in vitro antibacterial, antihemolytic, cytotoxic, anticancer, and leishmanial activity. Among all plants, transgenic line 3 (ABRL3) showed the highest expression of the rolB gene. Fourier transform infra-red (FTIR) analysis confirmed the enhanced number of functional groups of active compounds in all transgenic lines. Moreover, ABRL3 exhibited the highest antibacterial activity, minimum hemolytic activity (CC50 = 7293.05 ± 7 μg/mL) and maximum antileishmanial activity (IC50 of 56.16 ± 2 μg/mL). ABRL1 demonstrated the most prominent brine shrimp cytotoxicity (LD5039.6 ± 4 μg/mL). ABRL3 was most effective against various human cancer cell lines with an IC50 of 57.1 ± 2.2 μg/mL, 46.2 ± 1.1 μg/mL, 72.4 ± 1.3 μg/mL, 73.3 ± 2.1 μg/mL, 98.7 ± 1.6 μg/mL, and 97.1 ± 2.5 μg/mL against HepG2, LM3, A549, HT29, MCF-7, and MDA-MB-231, respectively. Overall, these transgenic extracts may offer a cheaper therapeutic source than the more expensive synthetic drugs. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Pharmacological and Toxicological Study of Medicinal Plants)
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11 pages, 4004 KiB  
Article
Antimicrobial Activity of Extracts from the Humiria balsamifera (Aubl)
by Edelson de J. S. Dias, Antônio J. Cantanhede Filho, Fernando J. C. Carneiro, Cláudia Q. da Rocha, Luís Cláudio N. da Silva, Joice C. B. Santos, Thayná F. Barros and Deivid M. Santos
Plants 2021, 10(7), 1479; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants10071479 - 19 Jul 2021
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2558
Abstract
Humiria balsamifera (Aubl), commonly known as “mirim”, is a plant of the Humiriaceae family, which consists of 39 species divided between eight genera: Duckesia, Endopleura, Humiria, Humiriastrum, Hylocara, Sacoglottis, Schistostemon, and Vantenea. This study aimed to characterize H. balsamifera extracts by LC-MS/MS [...] Read more.
Humiria balsamifera (Aubl), commonly known as “mirim”, is a plant of the Humiriaceae family, which consists of 39 species divided between eight genera: Duckesia, Endopleura, Humiria, Humiriastrum, Hylocara, Sacoglottis, Schistostemon, and Vantenea. This study aimed to characterize H. balsamifera extracts by LC-MS/MS and evaluate their antimicrobial potential through in vitro and in vivo assays. The leaves and stem bark of H. balsamifera were collected and dried at room temperature and then ground in a knife mill. The extracts were prepared with organic solvents in order to increase the polarity index (hexane, ethyl acetate, and methanol). The antimicrobial effects of these extracts were evaluated against the following bacterial strains: Escherichia coli ATCC 25922, Listeria monocytogenes ATCC 15313, Salmonella enterica Typhimurium ATCC 14028, and Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 6538. The best activity was observed in the ethyl acetate (EALE = 780 µg/mL), methanol (MLE = 780 µg/mL), and hexane (HLE = 1560 µg/mL) leaf extracts against S. aureus. Considering the results for both antimicrobial and antibiofilm activities, the EALE extract was chosen to proceed to the infection assays, which used Tenebrio molitor larvae. The EALE treatment was able to extend the average lifespan of the larvae (6.5 days) in comparison to S. aureus-infected larvae (1 day). Next, the samples were characterized by High-Performance Liquid Chromatography coupled to a mass spectrometer, allowing the identification of 11 substances, including seven flavonoids, substances whose antimicrobial activity is already well-reported in the literature. The number of bioactive compounds found in the chemical composition of H. balsamifera emphasizes its significance in both traditional medicine and scientific research that studies new treatments based on substances from the Brazilian flora. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Pharmacological and Toxicological Study of Medicinal Plants)
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22 pages, 7014 KiB  
Article
The Antiviral and Virucidal Activities of Voacangine and Structural Analogs Extracted from Tabernaemontana cymosa Depend on the Dengue Virus Strain
by Laura Milena Monsalve-Escudero, Vanessa Loaiza-Cano, Maria Isabel Zapata-Cardona, Diana Carolina Quintero-Gil, Estiven Hernández-Mira, Yina Pájaro-González, Andrés Felipe Oliveros-Díaz, Fredyc Diaz-Castillo, Wistón Quiñones, Sara Robledo and Marlen Martinez-Gutierrez
Plants 2021, 10(7), 1280; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants10071280 - 23 Jun 2021
Cited by 13 | Viewed by 2963
Abstract
Currently, no specific licensed antiviral exists for treating the illness caused by dengue virus (DENV). Therefore, the search for compounds of natural origin with antiviral activity is an important area of research. In the present study, three compounds were isolated and identified from [...] Read more.
Currently, no specific licensed antiviral exists for treating the illness caused by dengue virus (DENV). Therefore, the search for compounds of natural origin with antiviral activity is an important area of research. In the present study, three compounds were isolated and identified from seeds of Tabernaemontana cymosa plants. The in vitro antiviral effect of those compounds and voacangine against different DENV strains was assessed using different experimental approaches: compounds added before the infection (Pre), at the same time with the virus (Trans), after the infection (Post) or compounds present in all moments of the experiment (Pre-Trans-Post, Combined treatment). In silico studies (docking and molecular dynamics) were also performed to explain the possible antiviral mechanisms. The identified compounds were three structural analogs of voacangine (voacangine-7-hydroxyindolenine, rupicoline and 3-oxo-voacangine). In the Pre-treatment, only voacangine-7-hydroxyindolenine and rupicoline inhibited the infection caused by the DENV-2/NG strain (16.4% and 29.6% infection, respectively). In the Trans-treatment approach, voacangine, voacangine-7-hydroxyindolenine and rupicoline inhibited the infection in both DENV-2/NG (11.2%, 80.4% and 75.7% infection, respectively) and DENV-2/16681 infection models (73.7%, 74.0% and 75.3% infection, respectively). The latter strain was also inhibited by 3-oxo-voacangine (82.8% infection). Moreover, voacangine (most effective virucidal agent) was also effective against one strain of DENV-1 (DENV-1/WestPac/74) and against the third strain of DENV-2 (DENV-2/S16803) (48.5% and 32.4% infection, respectively). Conversely, no inhibition was observed in the post-treatment approach. The last approach (combined) showed that voacangine, voacangine-7-hydroxyindolenine and rupicoline inhibited over 90% of infections (3.5%, 6.9% and 3.5% infection, respectively) of both strains (DENV-2/NG and DENV-2/16681). The free energy of binding obtained with an in silico approach was favorable for the E protein and compounds, which ranged between −5.1 and −6.3 kcal/mol. Finally, the complex formed between DENV-2 E protein and the best virucidal compound was stable for 50 ns. Our results show that the antiviral effect of indole alkaloids derived from T. cymose depends on the serotype and the virus strain. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Pharmacological and Toxicological Study of Medicinal Plants)
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21 pages, 1126 KiB  
Article
Assessment of General Toxicity of the Glycyrrhiza New Variety Extract in Rats
by Dong-Gu Kim, Jeonghoon Lee, Wonnam Kim, Hyo-Jin An, Jong-Hyun Lee, Jaeki Chang, Sa-Haeng Kang, Young-Jae Song, Yong-Deok Jeon and Jong-Sik Jin
Plants 2021, 10(6), 1126; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants10061126 - 01 Jun 2021
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2820
Abstract
The Glycyrrhiza radix (Licorice) is one of the most commonly used medicinal plants in Asian countries, such as China, India, and Korea. It has been traditionally used to treat many diseases, including cough, cold, asthma, fatigue, gastritis, and respiratory tract infections. A Glycyrrhiza [...] Read more.
The Glycyrrhiza radix (Licorice) is one of the most commonly used medicinal plants in Asian countries, such as China, India, and Korea. It has been traditionally used to treat many diseases, including cough, cold, asthma, fatigue, gastritis, and respiratory tract infections. A Glycyrrhiza new variety, Wongam (WG), has been developed by the Korea Rural Development Administration and revealed pharmacological effects. However, the potential adverse effects of WG have not been revealed yet. This study evaluates the general toxicity of the WG extract through a single and repeated oral dose toxicity study in Sprague-Dawley rats. After single oral dose administration, no significant toxicological changes or mortality was observed up to 5000 mg/kg. Over a 4-week repeated oral dose toxicity study, no adverse effects and target organs were observed up to 5000 mg/kg/day. Over a 13-week repeated oral dose toxicity study, no mortality or toxicological changes involving ophthalmology, water consumption, or hematology were observed up to 5000 mg/kg/day. Although other parameters were changed, the alterations in question were not considered toxicologically significant, since responses remained within normal ranges and were not dose-dependent. In conclusion, the no-observed-adverse-effect level (NOAEL) of WG was higher than 5000 mg/kg/day, and no target organs were identified in rats. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Pharmacological and Toxicological Study of Medicinal Plants)
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16 pages, 5840 KiB  
Article
Anti-Obesity Effect of Pine Needle Extract on High-Fat Diet-Induced Obese Mice
by Eun A. Kim, Ju-Hwan Yang, Eun-Hye Byeon, Woong Kim, Dawon Kang, Jaehee Han, Seong-Geun Hong, Deok-Ryong Kim, Sang-Je Park, Jae-Won Huh, Hyeonsook Cheong, Seung-Pil Yun and Dong-Kun Lee
Plants 2021, 10(5), 837; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants10050837 - 21 Apr 2021
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 3142
Abstract
Background: Obesity due to an excessive intake of nutrient disturbs the hypothalamus-mediated energy metabolism subsequently develops metabolic disorders. In this study, we investigated the effect of pine needle extract (PNE) on the hypothalamic proopiomelanocortin (POMC) neurons involved in the regulation of energy balance [...] Read more.
Background: Obesity due to an excessive intake of nutrient disturbs the hypothalamus-mediated energy metabolism subsequently develops metabolic disorders. In this study, we investigated the effect of pine needle extract (PNE) on the hypothalamic proopiomelanocortin (POMC) neurons involved in the regulation of energy balance via melanocortin system and fat tissue metabolism. Methods: We performed electrophysiological and immunohistochemical analyses to determine the effect of PNE on POMC neurons. Mice were fed a normal or high-fat diet for 12 weeks, then received PNE for the last 2 weeks to measure the following physiological indices: Body weight, food intake, fat/lean mass, glucose metabolism, and plasma leptin levels. In addition, changes of thermogenic, lipolytic, and lipogenetic markers were evaluated in brown adipose tissue (BAT) and white adipose tissue (WAT) by western blotting, respectively. Results: PNE increased hypothalamic POMC neuronal activity, and the effect was abolished by blockade of melanocortin 3/4 receptors (MC3/4Rs). PNE decreased body weight, fat mass, plasma leptin levels, and improved glucose metabolism after high-fat-induced obesity. However, PNE did not change the expression of thermogenic markers of the BAT in HFD fed groups, but decreased only the lipogenetic markers of WAT. This study suggests that PNE has a potent anti-obesity effect, inhibiting lipogenesis in WAT, even though HFD-induced leptin resistance-mediated disruption of POMC neuronal activity. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Pharmacological and Toxicological Study of Medicinal Plants)
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11 pages, 2295 KiB  
Article
Molecular Mechanisms of Anti-Melanogenic Gedunin Derived from Neem Tree (Azadirachta indica) Using B16F10 Mouse Melanoma Cells and Early-Stage Zebrafish
by Hwang-Ju Jeon, Kyeongnam Kim, Chaeeun Kim, Myoung-Jin Kim, Tae-Oh Kim and Sung-Eun Lee
Plants 2021, 10(2), 330; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants10020330 - 09 Feb 2021
Cited by 12 | Viewed by 3061
Abstract
Melanogenesis represents a series of processes that produce melanin, a protective skin pigment (against ultraviolet rays), and determines human skin color. Chemicals reducing melanin production have always been in demand in the cosmetic market because of skincare interests, such as whitening. The main [...] Read more.
Melanogenesis represents a series of processes that produce melanin, a protective skin pigment (against ultraviolet rays), and determines human skin color. Chemicals reducing melanin production have always been in demand in the cosmetic market because of skincare interests, such as whitening. The main mechanism for inhibiting melanin production is the inhibition of tyrosinase (TYR), a key enzyme for melanogenesis. Here, we evaluated gedunin (Ged), a representative limonoid, for its anti-melanogenesis action. Melanin production in vitro was stimulated by alpha-melanocyte stimulating hormone (α-MSH) in B16F10 mouse melanoma cells. Ged reduced α-MSH-stimulated melanin production, inhibiting TYR activity and protein amount. We confirmed this result in vivo in a zebrafish model for melanogenesis. There was no sign of toxicity and malformation of zebrafish embryos during development in all treated concentrations. Ged reduced the number of produced zebrafish embryo pigment dots and melanin contents of embryos. The highly active concentration of Ged (100 µM) was much lower than the positive control, kojic acid (8 mM). Hence, Ged could be a fascinating candidate for anti-melanogenesis reagents. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Pharmacological and Toxicological Study of Medicinal Plants)
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Review

Jump to: Research

15 pages, 700 KiB  
Review
Cisplatin-Induced Nausea and Vomiting: Effect of Herbal Medicines
by Yuchan Shin, Bonglee Kim and Woojin Kim
Plants 2022, 11(23), 3395; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants11233395 - 06 Dec 2022
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 3138
Abstract
Cisplatin is a chemotherapeutic agent that is widely used to treat various types of cancers. However, its side effects, most commonly nausea and vomiting, limit its widespread use. Although various drugs, such as ondansetron and aprepitant, are used to alleviate these side effects, [...] Read more.
Cisplatin is a chemotherapeutic agent that is widely used to treat various types of cancers. However, its side effects, most commonly nausea and vomiting, limit its widespread use. Although various drugs, such as ondansetron and aprepitant, are used to alleviate these side effects, their efficacy is still debated. This review aims to summarize the results of 14 studies on the effects of seven single herbal extracts, one multiple herbal extract, and one ginger sub-component (i.e., [6]-gingerol) on cisplatin-induced nausea and vomiting. The results of the included studies were subdivided into four categories: kaolin consumption, retching and vomiting, food intake, and weight loss. Most studies used rodents, whereas four studies used minks or pigeons. The doses of cisplatin used in the studies varied from 3 mg/kg to 7.5 mg/kg, and only a single injection was used. Nine studies analyzed the mechanisms of action of herbal medicines and assessed the involvement of neurotransmitters, cytokines, enzymes, and various hematological parameters. Although further research is needed, this review suggests herbal medicine as a viable treatment option for cisplatin-induced neuropathic pain. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Pharmacological and Toxicological Study of Medicinal Plants)
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15 pages, 1406 KiB  
Review
The Therapeutic Efficacy of Punica granatum and Its Bioactive Constituents with Special Reference to Photodynamic Therapy
by Nosipho Thembekile Fakudze, Eric Chekwube Aniogo, Blassan P. George and Heidi Abrahamse
Plants 2022, 11(21), 2820; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants11212820 - 24 Oct 2022
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2487
Abstract
Punica granatum (P. granatum) is a fruit-bearing tree from the Punicaceae family, indigenous to Iran. This plant has healing qualities that have drawn the interest of the medical community as an alternative treatment for malignancies and non-malignancies. Its healing quality is due to [...] Read more.
Punica granatum (P. granatum) is a fruit-bearing tree from the Punicaceae family, indigenous to Iran. This plant has healing qualities that have drawn the interest of the medical community as an alternative treatment for malignancies and non-malignancies. Its healing quality is due to the phytochemicals present in the plant. These include ellagic acid, punicic acid, phenols, and flavonoids. In traditional medicine, P. granatum has been used in treating diseases such as dysentery, bleeding disorders, leprosy, and burns. This review explores the effects of the phytochemical constituents of P. granatum on photodynamic therapy for cancer, chronic inflammation, osteoarthritis, and viral infections. Its antioxidant and antitumor effects play a role in reduced free radical damage and cancer cell proliferation. It was concluded that P. granatum has been used for many disease conditions for a better therapeutic outcome. This paper will give visibility to more studies and expand the knowledge on the potential use of P. granatum in photodynamic cancer treatment. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Pharmacological and Toxicological Study of Medicinal Plants)
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17 pages, 1327 KiB  
Review
The Effect of Ginger and Its Sub-Components on Pain
by Suyong Kim, Chunhoo Cheon, Bonglee Kim and Woojin Kim
Plants 2022, 11(17), 2296; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants11172296 - 02 Sep 2022
Cited by 8 | Viewed by 2907
Abstract
Zingiber officinale Roscoe (ginger) has long been used as an herbal medicine to treat various diseases, and its main sub-components, [6]-gingerol and [6]-shogaol, were also reported to have anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant, and anti-tumor effects. However, their effects on various types of pain and their [...] Read more.
Zingiber officinale Roscoe (ginger) has long been used as an herbal medicine to treat various diseases, and its main sub-components, [6]-gingerol and [6]-shogaol, were also reported to have anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant, and anti-tumor effects. However, their effects on various types of pain and their underlying mechanisms of action have not been clearly analyzed and understood yet. Thus, in this review, by analyzing 16 studies that used Z. officinale, [6]-gingerol, and [6]-shogaol on mechanical, spontaneous and thermal pain, their effects and mechanisms of action have been analyzed. Pain was induced by either nerve injury or chemical injections in rodents. Nine studies analyzed the analgesic effect of Z. officinale, and four and three studies focused on [6]-gingerol and [6]-shogaol, respectively. Seven papers have demonstrated the underlying mechanism of action of their analgesic effects. Studies have focused on the spinal cord and one on the dorsal root ganglion (DRG) neurons. Involvement and change in the function of serotonergic receptors (5-HT1A, B, D, and 5A), transient receptor potential vanilloid 1 (TRPV1), N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptors, phosphorylated extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1/2 (pERK1/2), histone deacetylase 1 (HDAC1), voltage-gated sodium channel 1.8 (Nav1.8), substance P (SP), and sciatic nerve’s morphology have been observed. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Pharmacological and Toxicological Study of Medicinal Plants)
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23 pages, 671 KiB  
Review
The Main Protease of SARS-CoV-2 as a Target for Phytochemicals against Coronavirus
by Shaza S. Issa, Sofia V. Sokornova, Roman R. Zhidkin and Tatiana V. Matveeva
Plants 2022, 11(14), 1862; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants11141862 - 17 Jul 2022
Cited by 12 | Viewed by 2606
Abstract
In late December 2019, the first cases of COVID-19 emerged as an outbreak in Wuhan, China that later spread vastly around the world, evolving into a pandemic and one of the worst global health crises in modern history. The causative agent was identified [...] Read more.
In late December 2019, the first cases of COVID-19 emerged as an outbreak in Wuhan, China that later spread vastly around the world, evolving into a pandemic and one of the worst global health crises in modern history. The causative agent was identified as severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). Although several vaccines were authorized for emergency use, constantly emerging new viral mutants and limited treatment options for COVID-19 drastically highlighted the need for developing an efficient treatment for this disease. One of the most important viral components to target for this purpose is the main protease of the coronavirus (Mpro). This enzyme is an excellent target for a potential drug, as it is essential for viral replication and has no closely related homologues in humans, making its inhibitors unlikely to be toxic. Our review describes a variety of approaches that could be applied in search of potential inhibitors among plant-derived compounds, including virtual in silico screening (a data-driven approach), which could be structure-based or fragment-guided, the classical approach of high-throughput screening, and antiviral activity cell-based assays. We will focus on several classes of compounds reported to be potential inhibitors of Mpro, including phenols and polyphenols, alkaloids, and terpenoids. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Pharmacological and Toxicological Study of Medicinal Plants)
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36 pages, 5892 KiB  
Review
Glycyrrhiza glabra (Licorice): A Comprehensive Review on Its Phytochemistry, Biological Activities, Clinical Evidence and Toxicology
by Shadma Wahab, Sivakumar Annadurai, Shahabe Saquib Abullais, Gotam Das, Wasim Ahmad, Md Faruque Ahmad, Geetha Kandasamy, Rajalakshimi Vasudevan, Md Sajid Ali and Mohd Amir
Plants 2021, 10(12), 2751; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants10122751 - 14 Dec 2021
Cited by 77 | Viewed by 16052
Abstract
There are more than 30 species of Glycyrrhiza genus extensively spread worldwide. It was the most prescribed herb in Ancient Egyptian, Roman, Greek, East China, and the West from the Former Han era. There are various beneficial effects of licorice root extracts, such [...] Read more.
There are more than 30 species of Glycyrrhiza genus extensively spread worldwide. It was the most prescribed herb in Ancient Egyptian, Roman, Greek, East China, and the West from the Former Han era. There are various beneficial effects of licorice root extracts, such as treating throat infections, tuberculosis, respiratory, liver diseases, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and immunodeficiency. On the other hand, traditional medicines are getting the attraction to treat many diseases. Therefore, it is vital to screen the medicinal plants to find the potential of new compounds to treat chronic diseases such as respiratory, cardiovascular, anticancer, hepatoprotective, etc. This work comprehensively reviews ethnopharmacological uses, phytochemistry, biological activities, clinical evidence, and the toxicology of licorice, which will serve as a resource for future clinical and fundamental studies. An attempt has been made to establish the pharmacological effect of licorice in different diseases. In addition, the focus of this review article is on the molecular mechanism of licorice extracts and their four flavonoids (isoliquiritigenin, liquiritigenin, lichalocone, and glabridin) pharmacologic activities. Licorice could be a natural alternative for current therapy to exterminate new emerging disorders with mild side effects. This review will provide systematic insights into this ancient drug for further development and clinical use. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Pharmacological and Toxicological Study of Medicinal Plants)
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25 pages, 9311 KiB  
Review
Mechanistic Insight into Antimicrobial and Antioxidant Potential of Jasminum Species: A Herbal Approach for Disease Management
by Acharya Balkrishna, Akansha Rohela, Abhishek Kumar, Ashwani Kumar, Vedpriya Arya, Pallavi Thakur, Patrik Oleksak, Ondrej Krejcar, Rachna Verma, Dinesh Kumar and Kamil Kuca
Plants 2021, 10(6), 1089; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants10061089 - 28 May 2021
Cited by 17 | Viewed by 4910
Abstract
Drug resistance among microbial pathogens and oxidative stress caused by reactive oxygen species are two of the most challenging global issues. Firstly, drug-resistant pathogens cause several fatalities every year. Secondly aging and a variety of diseases, such as cardiovascular disease and cancer, are [...] Read more.
Drug resistance among microbial pathogens and oxidative stress caused by reactive oxygen species are two of the most challenging global issues. Firstly, drug-resistant pathogens cause several fatalities every year. Secondly aging and a variety of diseases, such as cardiovascular disease and cancer, are associated with free radical generated oxidative stress. The treatments currently available are limited, ineffective, or less efficient, so there is an immediate need to tackle these issues by looking for new therapies to resolve resistance and neutralize the harmful effects of free radicals. In the 21st century, the best way to save humans from them could be by using plants as well as their bioactive constituents. In this specific context, Jasminum is a major plant genus that is used in the Ayurvedic system of medicine to treat a variety of ailments. The information in this review was gathered from a variety of sources, including books, websites, and databases such as Science Direct, PubMed, and Google Scholar. In this review, a total of 14 species of Jasminum have been found to be efficient and effective against a wide variety of microbial pathogens. In addition, 14 species were found to be active free radical scavengers. The review is also focused on the disorders related to oxidative stress, and it was concluded that Jasminum grandiflorum and J. sambac normalized various parameters that were elevated by free radical generation. Alkaloids, flavonoids (rutoside), terpenes, phenols, and iridoid glucosides are among the main phytoconstituents found in various Jasminum species. Furthermore, this review also provides insight into the mechanistic basis of drug resistance, the generation of free radicals, and the role of Jasminum plants in combating resistance and neutralizing free radicals. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Pharmacological and Toxicological Study of Medicinal Plants)
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