Avicenna Journal of Phytomedicine最新文献

Objective:  Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM), an aggressive primary brain tumor, distinguished by an invasive growth pattern and resistance to current therapeutic strategy. This study investigates the potential of Oxypeucedanin (OP) as a natural compound to induce apoptosis and inhibit proliferation in T98G GBM cells, either alone or in combination with Temozolomide (TMZ).

Materials and methods: T98G cells were exposed to OP and TMZ individually and in combination. Then, cell viability (MTT assay), cell proliferation (using trypan blue), mRNA expression (qRT-PCR), Cell cycle and apoptosis (flow cytometry), and migration (wound healing assay) were evaluated.

Results: The viability assays revealed that both OP and less potentially TMZ decreased cell viability in a time- and dose-dependent manner. Notably, the combination of OP and TMZ demonstrated synergistic effects, substantially enhancing apoptosis rates while reducing proliferation, as evidenced by reduced cell growth rates and altered cell cycle distribution towards G2/M arrest. Additionally, gene expression analysis indicated increased Bax/Bcl-2 ratios and decreased Ki-67 levels, suggesting enhanced apoptotic susceptibility and lowered proliferation capacity. Furthermore, the wound healing assay confirmed reduced migration in T98G cells, particularly in the combination treatment group.

Conclusion: This study suggests the potential of OP as a complementary therapeutic agent alongside TMZ for GBM treatment.

Objective: The aim of this study was to survey whether plumbagin (PLB), a naturally occurring naphthoquinone found in the plants of Plumbago genus, can protect rat primary cortical neurons against mechanical injury which classically mimics traumatic brain injury (TBI) in vitro.

Materials and methods: Rat primary cortical neurons were isolated from time-mated pregnant Sprague-Dawley rats and cultured in vitro, and then, randomly divided into control group，trauma group，trauma+GKT137831 (50 μM) group，trauma+PLB (5 μM) group, trauma+PLB (10 μM) group and trauma+PLB (20 μM) group．The influence of PLB on rat primary cortical neuron viability and morphology was evaluated after mechanical injury. Flow cytometry was applied to examine neuron apoptotic rate and intracellular production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) after the pretreatment of PLB. The expression of NOX4/p38 MAPK pathway-related proteins was determined by Western blotting.

Results: Our results indicated that PLB pretreatment significantly alleviated trauma induced-neuronal injury by restoring cell viability and reducing lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) leakage compared with the trauma group (p<0.01). The morphology of injured neurons was improved by PLB pretreatment. Also, PLB notably reduced ROS production in cultured rat primary cortical neurons compared with the trauma group (p<0.01). Furthermore, PLB counteracted the mechanical injury-mediated apoptosis (p<0.01) and inhibited the expression of NOX4 protein and p38 MAPK phosphorylation in cortical neurons compared with the trauma group (p<0.01).

Conclusion: The present findings illustrate that PLB can alleviate mechanical trauma injury-induced apoptosis by inhibiting the NOX4/ROS/p38 MAPK pathway in primary cortical neurons.

Objective: Pistacia lentiscus L. (Mastaki), from the Anacardiaceae family, is known for its polyphenolic properties. Regarding its role in oxidative stress, we aimed to investigate its beneficial effects on pentylenetetrazol (PTZ) model of acute seizure.

Materials and methods: Acute tonic-clonic seizures were induced by PTZ (80 mg/kg; i.p.), with seizure scores assessment done within 30 min using the Racine scales. In the current study, a total of 70 male Wistar rats were randomly added into seven groups of 10: (1) Control, (2) PTZ (80 mg/kg), (3) Vehicle (distilled water + PTZ), (4-6) P. lentiscus L. gum groups + PTZ, and (7) Diazepam (0.3 mg/kg) + PTZ. Groups 3-6 received oral (gavage) distilled water or P. lentiscus L. gum (100, 200, or 400 mg/kg), 40 min before a single intraperitoneal injection of PTZ. Finally, hippocampal tissues were assessed for the determination of oxidative stress parameters.

Results: P. lentiscus gum (400 mg/kg) significantly increased latencies to the stages 2, 4, and 5 of seizure while reduced stage 5 duration in comparison with the PTZ group. Treatment with P. lentiscus also decreased elevated malondialdehyde (MDA) levels induced by PTZ and increased glutathione (GSH) concentration, and superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT) activities in comparison with the PTZ group.

Conclusion: This study's findings indicate that P. lentiscus L. possesses anticonvulsant properties, which may be partially attributed to its antioxidant activity, offering protection against oxidative stress.

Objective: Erectile dysfunction (ED) is a prevalent complication among diabetic patients, and it is associated with oxidative stress, endothelial dysfunction, and diminished nitric oxide generation. This study investigates the therapeutic efficacy of alkaloid extracts from Phyllanthus amarus and Andrographis paniculata on biochemicals related to ED in diabetic rats.

Materials and methods: Male Wistar rats were divided into seven groups: non-diabetic control, untreated diabetic, standard drug-treated diabetic (5 mg/kg glibenclamide), and four extract-treated diabetic groups (5 and 50 mg/kg of each plant alkaloid extract). Diabetes was induced via intraperitoneal injection of streptozotocin (STZ). Treatments were administered orally, once daily, for a duration of 21 days.

Results: Biochemical analysis demonstrated that diabetic rats had elevated phosphodiesterase-5 (PDE-5) and arginase activities and diminished antioxidant molecules. Treatment with plant extracts significantly inhibited PDE-5 and arginase activities, restored antioxidant enzymes (superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione-S-transferase, and reduced glutathione), and decreased malondialdehyde (MDA) and reactive oxygen species levels, indicating their potential to mitigate oxidative stress. The extracts had an inhibitory effect on acetylcholinesterase and butyrylcholinesterase activities, hence augmenting cholinergic signaling.

Conclusion: Alkaloid extracts of P. amarus and A. paniculata may enhance nitric oxide levels in endothelial cells, inhibiting key enzymes and improving antioxidant status. Their potential to inhibit PDE-5 and arginase, alongside their antioxidant properties, suggests they may offer a safer alternative to conventional treatments for diabetic ED. These findings highlight their therapeutic potential as a holistic approach to managing the complex nature of diabetes-related ED.

Objective: Atherosclerosis is a multifactorial condition influenced by various factors including inflammation and oxidative stress. Using drugs that reduce inflammation and oxidative stress is beneficial in preventing the formation and progression of atherosclerotic plaques. In light of the adverse effects associated with pharmaceutical interventions, natural compounds present a potentially safer therapeutic alternative for managing inflammation and oxidative stress. This study investigates the anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects of Berberis vulgaris (B. vulgaris), not berberine, in relation to atherosclerosis.

Material and methods: Databases such as PubMed, Web of Science, and Scopus were considered. The search terms were "Berberis vulgaris", "Cardiovascular", "Atherosclerosis", "Inflammation", "Oxidative stress", "Clinic", "Animal", "In vitro", "Cell line" and "Ingredient". The articles were reviewed from 2004 to 2024.

Results: B. vulgaris known for its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and immunomodulatory properties since it contains 22 alkaloid compounds, with berberine being the most prominent. Although berberine has been studied extensively in relation to atherosclerosis, its therapeutic use has been limited due to its poor oral bioavailability, which is less than 1%. Moreover, based on the literature the whole extract of B. vulgaris can be useful for atherosclerosis prevention.

Conclusion: Inflammation and oxidative stress play a key role in the formation and progression of atherosclerotic plaques. Due to the presence of alkaloids and polyphenols, B. vulgaris exhibits strong anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and immunomodulatory effects, making its consumption potentially useful in preventing atherosclerosis.

Objective: To evaluate the effects of Corchorus olitorius leaf extract on induced polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) rats.

Materials and methods: 36 female Wistar rats were divided into six groups (n=6) including Sham, PCOS + vehicle (Dimethyl sulfoxide), PCOS + Clomiphene citrate, PCOS + 200, 400, and 600 mg/kg Corchorus olitorius. The Sham group was administered CMC (carboxymethylcellulose) (0.5%) 1 ml/0.1 kg, while the PCOS groups were administered letrozole (1 mg/kg) dissolved in 0.5% CMC solution for 21 days via oral gavage. The PCOS condition was established to be successful when Papanicolaou-stained vaginal cytology of days 13-21 showed a greater dominance of clusters of empty cornified squamous cells. The duration of treatments was for 14 days ( via oral gavage) and euthanization occurred on the 15^th day. Hormonal levels, glucose level, lipid profile, hematological indices, liver function, kidney function, and histopathological studies of the ovaries and uteri were all determined.

Results: PCOS induction led to abnormalities in hormonal levels, lipid profile, glucose levels, ovarian morphology, uterine morphology, and vaginal cytology of the PCOS rats compared to the Sham group (p<0.05). C. olitorius leaf extract showed its ameliorative effects in terms of normalizing the altered vaginal cytology, restoring most parameters, and improving the appearance of ovarian and uterine morphology.

Conclusion: These results suggest that C. olitorius leaves ameliorate PCOS symptoms in the studied biochemical and histological parameters.

Objective: Evidence indicates that Nigella sativa (NS) and its key compounds such as carvacrol, thymoquinone, thymol, and α-hederin exhibit properties that reduce inflammation, act as antioxidants, and modulate the immune system. This meta-analysis investigated the preclinical evidence of NS reported in animal models of ovalbumin (OVA)-induced asthma.

Materials and methods: Studies done on NS and its components in animal models of OVA-induced asthma in all published articles up to July 2024 were searched in Scopus, PubMed, and Web of Science databases. The studies underwent assessment of methodological quality utilizing the 15-point CAMARADES checklist. MedCalc software was utilized for performing the data analysis.

Results: Sixteen studies involving a total of 486 animals, with 243 in the intervention group and 243 in the ovalbumin-induced group were analyzed. In the meta-analysis results, it was shown that NS and its components notably decreased total white blood cells (WBC), eosinophils, lymphocytes, and neutrophils. Additionally, NS caused a shift in the half of the maximum effective concentration (EC50) curve to the right and decreased the maximum response rates and tracheal OVA-response in experimental animals.

Conclusion: NS, and its components, could potentially influence asthma induced by OVA in animals by improving airway responsiveness and exhibiting anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant properties. Consequently, it is recommended that NS be evaluated in additional clinical trials for patients with asthma.

Objective: The presented meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials aimed to analyze the effectiveess of fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum) on fasting blood glucose (FBG), 2-hr postprandial glucose (2hPPG), Hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c), Insulin and Insulin resistance (HOMA-IR).

Materials and methods: A systematic literature search of several databases was performed from inception to 30 October 2023, for controlled clinical trials. Data were analyzed using the random-effect model, and are presented as weighted (WMD) or standardized (SMD) mean difference and associated 95 % confidence interval (CI). Heterogeneity between studies was assessed using the Cochrane χ² test. Meta-regression, subgroup analysis, and sensitivity analysis were used to identify the source of heterogeneity. Funnel plot, Egger's, and Begg's tests were also used to evaluate publication bias.

Results: A total of 26 Randomized controlled trial (RCTs) met the eligibility criteria. The results indicated significant improving effects of fenugreek on FBG (WMD: - 16.75 mg/dl; 95 % CI: - 23.36, - 10.15; p<0.001), 2hPP (WMD: - 22.28 mg/dl; 95 % CI: - 34.42 to - 10.15; p<0.001; I² (%): 95.1%, p<0.001), HbA1c levels (WMD: - 0.63 mg/dl; 95 % CI: - 0.76 to - 0.51; p<0.001), and insulin (SMD: - 0.42; 95 % CI: - 0.79 to - 0.05; p = 0.026). However, the HOMA-IR effect was insignificant (WMD: -22.28 mg/dl; 95 % CI: - 0.84 to 0.02; p = 0.061).

Conclusion: The overall results support the possible protective and therapeutic effects of fenugreek on glycemic parameters. Future studies with higher quality are necessary to confirm the results of the present meta-analyses.

Objective: Tea is known to have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Also, skin care products often contain antioxidant compounds that help protect the skin from free radicals that cause premature aging. In this study, we investigated the antioxidant and anti-aging effects of whole green tea (Camellia sinensis) and its polyphenols, especially EGCG (Epigallocatechin-3-gallate) on human skin.

Materials and methods: This scoping review followed PRISMA-ScR (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses Extension for Scoping Reviews) guidelines. The literature search was conducted using keywords: "Green tea", "Camellia sinensis", "cosmetics", "dermatology", and "topical". The literature search in this study included journals published from January 2013 to December 2023. This scoping review aimed to answer questions about the benefits of green tea or tea polyphenol extract in cosmetics for skin aging problems. Since the aim of this scoping review is to give a broad overview of the subject matter, review articles are included to give all possible insights into this topic.

Results: We included twenty-one articles for qualitative analysis. The included studies consisted of six in vitro studies, nine reviews, and six controlled trials, with twelve studies investigating the effects of whole green tea, four studies focusing on its polyphenols, and five studies examining the compound EGCG.

Conclusion: This review gave an overview of green tea extract as an anti-aging in vivo and in vitro studies. Further research on the use of molecular carriers and their application to human skin is needed.

Objective: Olanzapine, a well-known antipsychotic drug, causes considerable weight gain and metabolic abnormalities in patients. Green tea (Camellia sinensis) has anti-obesity, antihypertensive, antihyperlipidemic, and anti-diabetes effects. The aim of this study was to investigate the potential effects of epicatechin gallate (ECG) and epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) as green tea polyphenols on metabolic changes induced by olanzapine.

Materials and methods: We used fourteen groups of rats and subjected them to intraperitoneal injections once a day for eleven days: 1: Control. 2: Olanzapine (5 mg/kg/day). 3, 4, and 5: Olanzapine + EGCG (10, 20, and 40 mg/kg/day, respectively). 6, 7, and 8: EGCG (10, 20, and 40 mg/kg/day, respectively). 9, 10, and 11: Olanzapine + ECG (10, 20, and 40 mg/kg/day, respectively). 12, 13, and 14: ECG (10, 20, and 40 mg/kg/day). The body weights were recorded every three days and food consumption was evaluated every day. At the end of the study, lipid profile, systolic blood pressure (SBP), leptin and fasting blood sugar (FBS) levels, and locomotor activity were assessed.

Results: Olanzapine considerably increased weight, food intake, triglycerides, low-density lipoprotein (LDL), cholesterol, SBP, leptin, and FBS, and decreased high-density lipoprotein (HDL), and locomotor activity. Co-administration of ECG or EGCG at different doses significantly suppressed olanzapine-induced weight gain, and elevated plasma lipids, SBP, leptin, and FBS levels. Both compounds also considerably increased locomotor activity and HDL levels.

Conclusion: These findings suggest that ECG and EGCG could be promising adjunct therapies to counteract the metabolic side effects of olanzapine.