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Life (Basel, Switzerland) Nov 2022Spinal cord injury (SCI) possesses a complicated etiology. There is no FDA-approved treatment for SCI, and the majority of current interventions focus on reducing... (Review)
Review
Spinal cord injury (SCI) possesses a complicated etiology. There is no FDA-approved treatment for SCI, and the majority of current interventions focus on reducing symptoms. During SCI, inflammation, oxidative stress, apoptosis, and autophagy are behind the secondary phase of SCI and cause serious consequences. It urges the need for providing multi-targeting agents, that possess lower side effects and higher efficacy. The plant secondary metabolites are multi-targeting agents and seem to provide new roads in combating diseases. Flavonoids are phytochemicals of continual interest to scientists in combating neurodegenerative diseases (NDDs). Flavonoids are being studied for their biological and pharmacological effects, particularly as antioxidants, anti-inflammatory agents, anti-apoptotic, and autophagy regulators. Quercetin is one of the most well-known flavonols known for its preventative and therapeutic properties. It is a naturally occurring bioactive flavonoid that has recently received a lot of attention for its beneficial effects on NDDs. Several preclinical evidence demonstrated its neuroprotective effects. In this systematic review, we aimed at providing the biological activities of quercetin and related derivatives against SCI. Detailed neuroprotective mechanisms of quercetin derivatives are also highlighted in combating SCI.
PubMed: 36556325
DOI: 10.3390/life12121960 -
Medicine Mar 2017Prostate cancer (PCa) now remains the 2nd most frequently diagnosed cancer. In recent years, chemoprevention for PCa becomes a possible concept. Especially, many... (Meta-Analysis)
Meta-Analysis Review
Prostate cancer (PCa) now remains the 2nd most frequently diagnosed cancer. In recent years, chemoprevention for PCa becomes a possible concept. Especially, many phytochemicals rich foods are suggested to lower the risk of cancer. Among these foods, green tea is considered as effective prevention for various cancers. However, clinical trials and previous meta-analyses on the relationship between green tea consumption and the risk of PCa have produced inconsistent outcomes. This study aims to determine the dose-response association of green tea intake with PCa risk and the preventive effect of green tea catechins on PCa risk. Seven observational studies and 3 randomized controlled trials were retrieved from Cochrane Library, PubMed, Sciencedirect Online, and hand searching. The STATA (version 12.0) was applied to analyze the data. The relative risks (RRs) and 95% confidence intervals were pooled by fixed or random effect modeling. Dose-response relations were evaluated with categories of green tea intake. Although there was no statistical significance in the comparison of the highest versus lowest category, there was a trend of reduced incidence of PCa with each 1 cup/day increase of green tea (P = 0.08). Our dose-response meta-analysis further demonstrated that higher green tea consumption was linearly associated with a reduced risk of PCa with more than 7 cups/day. In addition, green tea catechins were effective for preventing PCa with an RR of 0.38 (P = 0.02). In conclusion, our dose-response meta-analysis evaluated the association of green tea intake with PCa risk systematically and quantitatively. And this is the first meta-analysis of green tea catechins consumption and PCa incidence. Our novel data demonstrated that higher green tea consumption was linearly reduced PCa risk with more than 7 cups/day and green tea catechins were effective for preventing PCa. However, further studies are required to substantiate these conclusions.
Topics: Carcinoma; Catechin; Humans; Male; Phytotherapy; Prostatic Neoplasms; Tea
PubMed: 28353571
DOI: 10.1097/MD.0000000000006426 -
Plants (Basel, Switzerland) May 2023Bone metabolism is a complex process which is influenced by the activity of bone cells (e.g., osteocytes, osteoblasts, osteoclasts); the effect of some specific... (Review)
Review
Bone metabolism is a complex process which is influenced by the activity of bone cells (e.g., osteocytes, osteoblasts, osteoclasts); the effect of some specific biomarkers (e.g., parathyroid hormone, vitamin D, alkaline phosphatase, osteocalcin, osteopontin, osteoprotegerin, osterix, RANKL, Runx2); and the characteristic signaling pathways (e.g., RANKL/RANK, Wnt/β, Notch, BMP, SMAD). Some phytochemical compounds-such as flavonoids, tannins, polyphenols, anthocyanins, terpenoids, polysaccharides, alkaloids and others-presented a beneficial and stimulating effect in the bone regeneration process due to the pro-estrogenic activity, the antioxidant and the anti-inflammatory effect and modulation of bone signaling pathways. Lately, nanomedicine has emerged as an innovative concept for new treatments in bone-related pathologies envisaged through the incorporation of medicinal substances in nanometric systems for oral or local administration, as well as in nanostructured scaffolds with huge potential in bone tissue engineering.
PubMed: 37653972
DOI: 10.3390/plants12102055 -
Food Chemistry Feb 2021Consumption of oat and buckwheat have been associated with various health benefits that may be attributed to their nutritional composition. We performed a systematic...
Consumption of oat and buckwheat have been associated with various health benefits that may be attributed to their nutritional composition. We performed a systematic review to evaluate the profile and quantity of bioactive compounds present in oat and buckwheat. Among 154 studies included in final analysis, 113 and 178 bioactive compounds were reported in oat and buckwheat, respectively. Total phytosterols, tocols, flavonoids and rutin content were generally higher in buckwheat, β-glucans were significantly higher in oat, while avenanthramides and saponins were characteristically present in oat. The majority of studies included in current review were published before 2010s. The heterogeneous methodological procedures used across the studies precluded our possibility to meta-analyse the evidence and raises the need for harmonization of separation and extraction methods in future studies. Our findings should further stimulate the exploration of metabolites related to identified phytochemicals and their roles in human health.
Topics: Avena; Fagopyrum; Humans; Phytochemicals
PubMed: 32950005
DOI: 10.1016/j.foodchem.2020.127982 -
Biomolecules Sep 2022Prostate cancer is one of the leading causes of death for men worldwide. The development of resistance, toxicity, and side effects of conventional therapies have made... (Review)
Review
Prostate cancer is one of the leading causes of death for men worldwide. The development of resistance, toxicity, and side effects of conventional therapies have made prostate cancer treatment become more intensive and aggressive. Many phytochemicals isolated from plants have shown to be tumor cytotoxic. In vitro laboratory studies have revealed that natural compounds can affect cancer cell proliferation by modulating many crucial cellular signaling pathways frequently dysregulated in prostate cancer. A multitude of natural compounds have been found to induce cell cycle arrest, promote apoptosis, inhibit cancer cell growth, and suppress angiogenesis. In addition, combinatorial use of natural compounds with hormone and/or chemotherapeutic drugs seems to be a promising strategy to enhance the therapeutic effect in a less toxic manner, as suggested by pre-clinical studies. In this context, we systematically reviewed the currently available literature of naturally occurring compounds isolated from vegetables, fruits, teas, and herbs, with their relevant mechanisms of action in prostate cancer. As there is increasing data on how phytochemicals interfere with diverse molecular pathways in prostate cancer, this review discusses and emphasizes the implicated molecular pathways of cell proliferation, cell cycle control, apoptosis, and autophagy as important processes that control tumor angiogenesis, invasion, and metastasis. In conclusion, the elucidation of the natural compounds' chemical structure-based anti-cancer mechanisms will facilitate drug development and the optimization of drug combinations. Phytochemicals, as anti-cancer agents in the treatment of prostate cancer, can have significant health benefits for humans.
Topics: Antineoplastic Agents; Apoptosis; Hormones; Humans; Male; Neovascularization, Pathologic; Phytochemicals; Prostatic Neoplasms
PubMed: 36139145
DOI: 10.3390/biom12091306 -
Frontiers in Bioscience (Landmark... Oct 2023In the past 10 years, significant progress has been made in understanding the pathogenic chain of events that causes Alzheimer's disease (AD). According to the most...
BACKGROUND
In the past 10 years, significant progress has been made in understanding the pathogenic chain of events that causes Alzheimer's disease (AD). According to the most widely accepted concept, the production and aggregation of β-amyloid (Aβ) peptides play a critical role in AD. As a result, therapeutic intervention with these processes is the focus of intense research. The Aβ peptide is cleaved by the α-secretase, β-secretase, and γ-secretase enzymes in a region near the pathogenic amyloid precursor protein (APP) and mutations occurring site.
METHODS
In the current review, a complete picture of the risk factors behind AD has been investigated. Mutations involved in AD progression have also been screened in various studies.
RESULTS
Most of the mutations in the amyloid precursor protein (APP) can lead to the accumulation of APP oligomers in the brain, leading to AD. Several point mutations in APP can cause familial AD (FAD), including the Swedish mutation (K>M670/671N>L) and the A673>V mutation. The pathogenic A673>V mutation and Swedish mutation (M670>K/N671>L) are present in the same region of amyloid precursor protein (). However, the A673>T mutation has been shown to confer protection against AD.
CONCLUSION
More investigations are needed from geographically distinct regions on mutations associated with AD development and applications of nanomedicines for better management of the disease burden in the future. Nanotechnology-produced metal nanoparticles (NPs) have gotten much attention because of their wide range of uses in the medicinal and agricultural industries. Nanomedicine containing potential phytochemicals, including GX-50 and curcumin conjugated with NPs, maybe a potential candidate for treating AD.
Topics: Humans; Alzheimer Disease; Amyloid beta-Protein Precursor; Amyloid beta-Peptides; Mutation; Amyloid Precursor Protein Secretases
PubMed: 37919079
DOI: 10.31083/j.fbl2810258 -
Nutrients Jun 2023Bercht. & J. Presl has been widely used due to the presence of different bioactive compounds. This review summarizes the latest advances and perspectives of the plant... (Review)
Review
Bercht. & J. Presl has been widely used due to the presence of different bioactive compounds. This review summarizes the latest advances and perspectives of the plant species; it is a systematic literature review on aspects of botany, traditional uses, phytochemistry, pharmacology, and toxicology as therapeutic potential. In addition, 120 compounds are described, including alkaloids, flavonoids, terpenoids, steroids, amino acids, aromatics, and aliphatics. As for the therapeutic potential, it is described in extracts and compounds in the antitumor, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antimicrobial, antispasmodic, anticoagulant, and analgesic aspects, as well as the effects on the central nervous system. The toxicity of the genus stands out, especially the potential for organ toxicity. Therefore, this review evidenced the knowledge related to the traditional use based on the scientific research of , highlighting an overview of bioactive compounds and biological and toxicological activities in order to provide a scientific basis for future studies on the value of this species for the development of new natural products.
Topics: Brugmansia; Phytotherapy; Medicine, Traditional; Plant Extracts; Alkaloids; Phytochemicals; Ethnopharmacology
PubMed: 37447241
DOI: 10.3390/nu15132912 -
Journal of Ethnopharmacology Nov 2021'Akebia stem' (Akebiae caulis) is one of the newest raw materials officially introduced into therapeutic practice from traditional Chinese medicine. A monograph on this... (Comparative Study)
Comparative Study
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE
'Akebia stem' (Akebiae caulis) is one of the newest raw materials officially introduced into therapeutic practice from traditional Chinese medicine. A monograph on this material appeared for the first time in 2018 in Supplement 9.6 to the 9th edition of the European Pharmacopoeia. In the latest 10th edition of the European Pharmacopoeia, the monograph remained unchanged. The 'Akebia stem' monograph allows the use, as a raw material, of Akebia quinata (Houtt.) Decne., A. trifoliata (Thunb.) Koidz, or a mixture of the two species.
AIM OF THE STUDY
The aim of this work is a detailed review of the scientific literature on the genus Akebia (family Lardizabalaceae), with particular emphasis on A. quinata and A. trifoliata, providing information on the botanical, ecological, and chemical characteristics of these species. Professional research on their biological activity has been reviewed. The attention is given to phytochemistry and cosmetology. The traditional use of Akebia species and their potential use in medicine and cosmetology are assessed. In addition, individual papers describing biotechnology research on in vitro cultures of the two Akebia species are presented.
MATERIALS AND METHODS
The presented botanical, ecological, phytochemical and biotechnological characterization is based on a thorough review of published scientific research. It is a compilation and evaluation of data on the chemical composition and biological activities of these Akebia species.
RESULTS
This critical review of phytochemical studies demonstrates that triterpenoid saponins are dominant secondary metabolites of these species. A comparative analysis of phytochemical studies on A. quinata and A. trifoliata stems, roots, fruits, and seeds showed differences in metabolites based on the plant parts and species. The triterpenoid saponins mutongsaponin C and saponin P have been found only in A. trifoliata, whereas the phenolic glycoside 2-(3,4-dihydroxyphenyl)-ethyl-O-β-D-glucopyranoside has been found only in A. quinata. Biological activity studies of A. quinata stem, leaf and/or fruit extracts have confirmed diuretic, hepatoregenerative, neuroprotective, analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and anti-obesity effects and an influence on ethanol metabolism. Different action profiles have been demonstrated for A. trifoliata stem, leaf and/or fruit extracts. Studies have proven the antibacterial and anticancer (liver and stomach) effects of these species. This review presents potential phytopharmacological applications of both species and detailed data on their broad applications in cosmetology. Attention is also drawn to information on the safety of using Akebia. Finally, an overview of biotechnology research on both species is presented.
CONCLUSIONS
This review provides comprehensive knowledge about the ethnopharmacological use of Akebia species. Moreover, new findings on the differences in the chemical composition and biological activity profiles are underlined.
Topics: Animals; Biotechnology; Cosmetics; Drugs, Chinese Herbal; Ethnopharmacology; Humans; Phytochemicals; Ranunculales
PubMed: 34352331
DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2021.114486 -
Frontiers in Nutrition 2022Oxidative stress is a condition occurs when there is the imbalance between prooxidants and free radicals. It involves in cellular metabolism, aging, and immune response....
Oxidative stress is a condition occurs when there is the imbalance between prooxidants and free radicals. It involves in cellular metabolism, aging, and immune response. Recently oxidative stress has been proved about its beneficial roles in human body. However, long term oxidative stress and high concentration of free radicals can lead to negative effects on organs, systems, and physiological conditions. Prooxidant or antioxidant, therefore, is one of the most important choices for the prevention of these anomaly. is a medicinal plant that has been reported as a source of antioxidants. The plants' leaves possess antioxidant effects according to many studies. However, these results have not yet been systematically summarized. The present systematic review summarizes and discusses about the antioxidant capacities of leaves. The plants' description and morphology, elements and phytochemical constituents, total phenolic and flavonoids contents and toxicity are also summarized and discussed here.
PubMed: 36204366
DOI: 10.3389/fnut.2022.977015 -
Antioxidants (Basel, Switzerland) May 2019Dietary polyphenols, including flavonoids, have been the focus of major recent attentions due to their wide content in a variety of foods commonly consumed and the... (Review)
Review
BACKGROUND
Dietary polyphenols, including flavonoids, have been the focus of major recent attentions due to their wide content in a variety of foods commonly consumed and the findings from numerous studies showing evidence of an association with positive outcomes on human health.
METHODS
A systematic search using electronic databases PubMed and EMBASE was performed to retrieve English language studies published from the earliest indexing year of each database to April 2019, reporting on the association between dietary flavonoids intake and hypertension.
RESULTS
The search strategy resulted in the final selection of 20 studies including 15 cross-sectional investigations and 7 prospective cohorts (1 study reported on 3 prospective cohorts). 5 prospective cohorts, comprising 200,256 individuals and 45,732 cases of hypertension were included in the quantitative analysis. Analysis by extreme quantiles of intake of flavonoid showed a non-significant association with decreased risk of hypertension (RR (risk ratio): 0.96, 95% CI (confidence interval): 0.89, 1.03). Taking into consideration individual flavonoid subclasses, dietary anthocyanins intake was associated with 8% reduction in risk of hypertension, when comparing highest vs. lowest exposure (RR: 0.92, 95% CI: 0.88, 0.97).
CONCLUSIONS
Further studies are needed to strengthen the retrieved association between anthocyanins consumption and decreased risk of hypertension and clarify whether total flavonoids or rather individual subclasses may exert beneficial effects on blood pressure.
PubMed: 31159186
DOI: 10.3390/antiox8060152