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Phytomedicine : International Journal... Jul 2024Breast cancer stands as the most common malignancy among women globally and a leading cause of cancer-related mortality. Conventional treatments, such as surgery,... (Review)
Review
BACKGROUND
Breast cancer stands as the most common malignancy among women globally and a leading cause of cancer-related mortality. Conventional treatments, such as surgery, hormone therapy, radiotherapy, chemotherapy, and small-molecule targeted therapy, often fall short of addressing the complexity and heterogeneity of certain breast cancer subtypes, leading to drug resistance and metastatic progression. Thus, the search for novel therapeutic targets and agents is imperative. Given their low toxicity and abundant variety, natural products and their derivatives are increasingly considered valuable sources for small-molecule anticancer drugs.
PURPOSE
This review aims to elucidate the pharmacological impacts and underlying mechanisms of active compounds found in select natural products and their derivatives, primarily focusing on breast cancer treatment. It intends to underscore the potential of these substances in combating breast cancer and guide future research directions for the development of natural product-based therapeutics.
METHODS
We conducted comprehensive searches in electronic databases such as PubMed, Web of Science, and Scopus until October 2023, using keywords such as 'breast cancer', 'natural products', 'derivatives', 'mechanism', 'signaling pathways', and various keyword combinations.
RESULTS
The review presents a spectrum of phytochemicals, including but not limited to flavonoids, polyphenols, and alkaloids, and examines their actions in various animal and cellular models of breast cancer. The anticancer effects of these natural products and derivatives are manifested through diverse mechanisms, including induction of cell death via apoptosis and autophagy, and suppression of tumor angiogenesis.
CONCLUSION
An increasing array of natural products and their derivatives are proving effective against breast cancer. Future therapeutic strategies can benefit from strategic enhancement of the anticancer properties of natural compounds, optimization for targeted action, improved bioavailability, and minimized side effects. The forthcoming research on natural products should prioritize these facets to maximize their therapeutic potential.
Topics: Humans; Breast Neoplasms; Biological Products; Female; Drug Discovery; Phytochemicals; Antineoplastic Agents, Phytogenic; Animals; Signal Transduction
PubMed: 38614043
DOI: 10.1016/j.phymed.2024.155600 -
Scientific Reports Jul 2023Previous studies have rarely investigated dietary phytochemicals consumption in relation to metabolic health of adolescents. The current study was performed to...
Previous studies have rarely investigated dietary phytochemicals consumption in relation to metabolic health of adolescents. The current study was performed to investigate dietary phytochemical index (DPI) in relation to metabolic health status in overweight and obese adolescents. This cross-sectional study was conducted among 203 adolescents with overweight or obesity. Dietary intakes of participants were obtained through a validated 147-item food frequency questionnaire. DPI was calculated [(dietary energy derived from phytochemical-rich foods (kcal)/total daily energy intake (kcal)) ⨯100]. Glycemic and lipid profiles, blood pressure, and anthropometric indices were also measured. A metabolically unhealthy overweight/obesity (MUO) profile was determined based on the International Diabetes Federation (IDF) and IDF/Homeostasis Model Assessment Insulin Resistance (HOMA-IR) definitions. Study subjects had a mean age of 13.98 years and 50.2% of them were girls. According to IDF and IDF/HOMA-IR criteria, 38.9% (37 boys, and 42 girls) and 33% (35 boys, and 32 girls) of the study participants were respectively MUO. According to IDF and IDF/HOMA-IR definitions, adolescents in the third DPI tertile had respectively 61% (maximally-adjusted OR = 0.39, 95%CI 0.16-0.91) and 67% (maximally-adjusted OR = 0.33, 95%CI 0.13-0.83) lower odds of being MUO, compared to the first tertile. Stratified analysis by sex indicated that DPI was inversely related to MUO phenotype based on IDF criteria in girls (maximally-adjusted OR = 0.25, 95%CI 0.06-0.98), but not in boys. The current study found that adolescents with a higher dietary intake of phytochemicals have lower odds of being MUO, particularly among girls. However, further large-scale prospective cohort studies are required to confirm this finding.
Topics: Humans; Male; Female; Child; Adolescent; Health Status; Overweight; Obesity; Phytochemicals; Cross-Sectional Studies; Insulin Resistance
PubMed: 37491451
DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-39314-z -
Phytomedicine : International Journal... Jan 2024Allergic asthma is an inflammatory disease caused by the immune system's reaction to allergens, inflammation and narrowing of the airways, and the production of more... (Review)
Review
BACKGROUND
Allergic asthma is an inflammatory disease caused by the immune system's reaction to allergens, inflammation and narrowing of the airways, and the production of more than normal mucus. One of the main reasons is an increased production of inflammatory cytokines in the lungs that leads to the appearance of symptoms of asthma, including inflammation and shortness of breath. On the other hand, it has been proven that phytochemicals with their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties can be useful in improving allergic asthma.
PURPOSE
Common chemical treatments for allergic asthma include corticosteroids, which have many side effects and temporarily relieve symptoms but are not a cure. Therefore, taking the help of natural compounds to improve the quality of life of asthmatic patients can be a valuable issue that has been evaluated in the present review.
STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS
In this study, three databases (Scopus, PubMed, and Cochrane) with the keywords: allergic asthma, phytochemical, plant, and herb were evaluated. The primary result was 5307 articles. Non-English, repetitive, and review articles were deleted from the study.
RESULTS AND DISCUSSION
Finally, after carefully reading the articles, 102 were included in the study (2006-2022). The results of this review state that phytochemicals suppress the inflammatory pathways via inhibition of inflammatory cytokines production/secretion, genes, and proteins involved in the inflammation process, reducing oxidative stress indicators and symptoms of allergic asthma, such as cough and mucus production in the lungs.
CONCLUSION
With their antioxidant effects, this study concluded that phytochemicals suppress cytokines and other inflammatory indicators and thus can be considered an adjunctive treatment for improving allergic asthma.
Topics: Humans; Animals; Mice; Quality of Life; Asthma; Lung; Cytokines; Antioxidants; Phytochemicals; Inflammation; Ovalbumin; Disease Models, Animal; Mice, Inbred BALB C
PubMed: 37890444
DOI: 10.1016/j.phymed.2023.155149 -
Natural Product Research May 2024In this study, the total phenolic and flavonoid contents (TPC and TFC), secondary metabolite composition (LC-HRMS/MS analyses) and antioxidant potential (DPPH, ABTS,...
In this study, the total phenolic and flavonoid contents (TPC and TFC), secondary metabolite composition (LC-HRMS/MS analyses) and antioxidant potential (DPPH, ABTS, GOR, CUPRAC, and phenanthroline assays) of L. (LT) extracts were determined. Our results showed for the first time that the extracts (PE, CHCl, AcOEt, and -BuOH) of LT exert antioxidant activity. The AcOEt and -BuOH extracts were the most antioxidant compared to the standards, and had a higher amount of TPC (323.51 ± 0.62; 229.98 ± 6.80 µg GAE/mL) and TFC (183.75 ± 1.17 and 157.50 ± 1.77 µg QE/mL), resectively. The high antioxidant properties of these extracts may be due to their major compounds (phenolic compounds) detected by LC-HRMS/MS analyses including flavonoids (40 compounds) and phenolic acids and derivatives (18 and 19 compounds, respectively). AcOEt and -BuOH extracts of LT can be used as an excellent source of antioxidant phytochemicals to prevent or treat various diseases.
Topics: Antioxidants; Flax; Plant Extracts; Flavonoids; Phenols; Phytochemicals
PubMed: 37233980
DOI: 10.1080/14786419.2023.2218010 -
Chemistry & Biodiversity May 2024The genus Malaxis (family Orchidaceae), comprises nearly 183 species available across the globe. The plants of this genus have long been employed in traditional medical... (Review)
Review
The genus Malaxis (family Orchidaceae), comprises nearly 183 species available across the globe. The plants of this genus have long been employed in traditional medical practices because of their numerous biological properties, like the treatment of infertility, hemostasis, burning sensation, bleeding diathesis, fever, diarrhea, dysentery, febrifuge, tuberculosis, etc. Various reports highlight their phytochemical composition and biological activities. However, there is a lack of systematic review on the distribution, phytochemistry, and biological properties of this genus. Hence, this study aims to conduct a thorough and critical review of Malaxis species, covering data published from 1965 to 2022 with nearly 90 articles. Also, it examines different bioactive compounds, their chemistry, and pharmacotherapeutics as well as their traditional uses. A total of 189 unique compounds, including the oil constituents were recorded from Malaxis species. The highest active ingredients were obtained from Malaxis acuminata (103) followed by Malaxis muscifera (49) and Malaxis rheedei (33). In conclusion, this review offers an overview of the current state of knowledge on Malaxis species and highlights prospects for future research projects on them. Additionally, it recommends the promotion of domestication studies for rare medicinal orchids like Malaxis and the prompt implementation of conservation measures.
Topics: Orchidaceae; Phytochemicals; Humans; Plant Extracts
PubMed: 38289898
DOI: 10.1002/cbdv.202301830 -
Nutrition Research (New York, N.Y.) Dec 2023The retina, an important tissue of the eye, is essential in visual transmission and sustaining adequate eyesight. However, oxidative stress and inflammatory reactions... (Review)
Review
The retina, an important tissue of the eye, is essential in visual transmission and sustaining adequate eyesight. However, oxidative stress and inflammatory reactions can harm retinal structure and function. Recent studies have demonstrated that exposure to light can induce oxidative stress and inflammatory reactions in retinal cells, thereby facilitating the progression of retinal damage-related diseases and asthenopia. Plant bioactive compounds such as anthocyanin, curcumin, resveratrol, lutein, zeaxanthin, epigallocatechin gallate, and quercetin are effective in alleviating retinal damage and asthenopia. Their strong oxidation resistance and unique chemical structure can prevent the retina from producing reactive oxygen species and regulating eye muscle relaxation, thus alleviating retinal damage and asthenopia. Additionally, the combination of these active ingredients produces a stronger antioxidant effect. Consequently, understanding the mechanism of retinal damage caused by light and the regulation mechanism of bioactive compounds can better protect the retina and reduce asthenopia.
Topics: Humans; Asthenopia; Biological Availability; Retina; Antioxidants; Oxidative Stress; Phytochemicals
PubMed: 37980835
DOI: 10.1016/j.nutres.2023.10.003 -
Frontiers in Endocrinology 2023The most common cause of infertility and metabolic problems among women of reproductive age is polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), a multifaceted disorder. It is an... (Review)
Review
The most common cause of infertility and metabolic problems among women of reproductive age is polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), a multifaceted disorder. It is an endocrine disorder that occurs in approximately one in seven women. Among these PCOS patients, two thirds will not ovulate on a regular basis and seek treatment for ovulation induction. The symptoms vary in their severity, namely ovulation disorders, excessive androgen levels, or polycystic ovarian morphology. All these symptoms require a therapeutic approach. Many drugs are used to eradicate PCOS symptoms, like metformin, clomiphene citrate, spironolactone, and pioglitazone. Long-term treatment is required to achieve the desired outcome, which is often accompanied by significant adverse reactions. Some herbs and phytochemicals are equally effective for treating PCOS and produce minimal side effects. Recently, herbal products are gaining popularity due to their wide biological activities, safety, availability, and efficacy. The present review covers aetiology, current treatment, pathophysiology, and detailed pre-clinical and clinical studies on plants and phytochemicals that are proven to be useful for the treatment of symptoms associated with PCOS.
Topics: Polycystic Ovary Syndrome; Humans; Female; Phytotherapy; Phytochemicals; Animals; Plant Extracts
PubMed: 38725974
DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2023.1294406 -
Drug Design, Development and Therapy 2024In an era where synthetic supplements have raised concerns regarding their effects on human health, has emerged as a natural alternative rich in polyphenolic compounds... (Review)
Review
In an era where synthetic supplements have raised concerns regarding their effects on human health, has emerged as a natural alternative rich in polyphenolic compounds with potent therapeutic properties. Various studies on focusing on the analysis and validation of its pharmacological and nutritional properties are emerging. This paper summarizes present data and information on the phytochemical, nutritional values, therapeutic potential, as well as the toxicity profile of . An extensive search was conducted from various databases, including PubMed, ScienceDirect, Scopus, and Google Scholar. A total of 126 studies and articles related to that were published between 1999 and 2023 were included in this review. Remarkably, exhibits a diverse array of advantageous effects, including, but not limited to, antioxidant, anti-neurodegenerative, antimicrobial, antiviral, anti-inflammatory, anti-arthritic, antiepileptic, anticonvulsant, anti-hyperlipidemic, anti-angiogenic, antidiabetic, anti-cancer, and antimutagenic properties. Among the highlights include that antioxidants from were demonstrated to inhibit cholinesterase, potentially protecting neurons in Alzheimer's disease and other neurodegenerative conditions. The antimicrobial activities of were attributed to its high flavonoids and terpenoids content, while its virucidal action through the inhibition of DNA and RNA replication was postulated due to its triterpenes content. Inflammatory and arthritic conditions may also benefit from its anti-inflammatory and anti-arthritic properties through the modulation of various signalling proteins. Studies have also shown that extracts were generally safe and exhibit low toxicity profile, although more research in this aspect is required, specifically its effects on the skin. In conclusion, this study highlights the potential of as a valuable natural therapeutic agent and dietary supplement. However, continued exploration on s safety and efficacy is still required prior to embarking on clinical trials, as its role in personalized nutrition and medication will open a new paradigm to improve health outcomes.
Topics: Ficus; Humans; Dietary Supplements; Animals; Plant Extracts; Antioxidants; Phytochemicals
PubMed: 38831870
DOI: 10.2147/DDDT.S436446 -
Journal of Ethnopharmacology Apr 2024Onion (Allium cepa L.) is one of the most widely distributed species within the Allium genus of family Amaryllidaceae. Onion has been esteemed for its medicinal... (Review)
Review
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE
Onion (Allium cepa L.) is one of the most widely distributed species within the Allium genus of family Amaryllidaceae. Onion has been esteemed for its medicinal properties since antiquity. It has been consumed for centuries in various indigenous cultures for the management of several ailments including microbial infections, respiratory, gastrointestinal, skin and cardio-vascular disorders, diabetes, renal colic, rheumatism, sexual impotence, menstrual pain, and headache. However, so far, there is a scarcity of recent data that compiles the plant chemistry, traditional practices, biological features, and toxicity.
AIM OF THE WORK
The aim of this review is to provide a comprehensive and analytical overview of ethnopharmacological uses, phytochemistry, pharmacology, industrial applications, quality control, and toxicology of onion, to offer new perspectives and broad scopes for future studies.
MATERIALS AND METHODS
The information gathered in this review was obtained from various sources including books, scientific databases such as Science Direct, Wiley, PubMed, Google Scholar, and other domestic and foreign literature.
RESULTS
Onion has a long history of use as a traditional medicine for management of various conditions including infectious, inflammatory, respiratory, cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, and erectile dysfunction. More than 400 compounds have been identified in onion including flavonoids, phenolic acids, amino acids, peptides, saponins and fatty acids. The plant extracts and compounds showed various pharmacological activities such as antimicrobial, antidiabetic, anti-inflammatory, anti-hyperlipidemic, anticancer, aphrodisiac, cardioprotective, and neuroprotective activities. In addition to its predominant medicinal uses, onion has found various applications in the functional food industry.
CONCLUSION
Extensive literature analysis reveals that onion extracts and bioactive constituents possess diverse pharmacological activities that can be beneficial for treating various diseases. However, the current research primarily revolves around the documentation of ethnic pharmacology and predominantly consists of in vitro studies, with relatively limited in vivo and clinical studies. Consequently, it is imperative for future investigations to prioritize and expand the scope of in vivo and clinical research. Additionally, it is strongly recommended to direct further research efforts towards toxicity studies and quality control of the plant. These studies will help bridge the current knowledge gaps and establish a solid basis for exploring the plant's potential uses in a clinical setting.
Topics: Humans; Onions; Ethnopharmacology; Medicine, Traditional; Plant Extracts; Phytochemicals; Diabetes Mellitus; Phytotherapy
PubMed: 38262524
DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2024.117779 -
Brazilian Journal of Biology = Revista... 2023Parkia platycephala is the only species of the genus Parkia that is endemic to the brazilian Cerrado and the tree symbol of the state of Tocantins, but there are still...
Parkia platycephala is the only species of the genus Parkia that is endemic to the brazilian Cerrado and the tree symbol of the state of Tocantins, but there are still few studies regarding its bioprospecting. In this study, we aimed to investigate the phytochemical composition, toxicity and bioactivities of the bark and flower of Parkia platycephala. Hot sequential extractions (Soxhlet) were performed using methanol and hydroethanolic solution (70%), after degreasing the sample (hexane). The presence of flavonoids, tannins, steroids and alkaloids was detected in the preliminary screening. Trilinolein, (Z)-9-octadecenamide, 3-O-methyl-d-glucose were detected by Gas Chromatography coupled to Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS). In the Liquid Chromatography with Diode Array Detector (LC-PDA) analysis, it was detected exclusively ferulic acid (bark) and ellagic acid (flower). The ethanolic extract of the bark (IC50=10.69 ± 0.35 µgmL-1) has an antioxidant potential (DPPH• radical) higher than that of the rutin standard (IC50=15.85 ± 0.08 µgmL-1). All extracts showed excellent anticholinesterase potential (Ellman), with emphasis on the ethanol extract of the flower (IC50 =5.34 ± 0.12 µgmL-1). Regarding toxicity (Artemia salina), the methanolic extract of the bark and the ethanolic extract of the flower presented high and moderate levels, respectively. Such results limit the concentrations of biological activities in this study, however, the antioxidant and anticholinesterase indices fall short of toxicity. The results demonstrated promising antioxidant and anticholinesterase activities of both the bark and the flower of Parkia platycephala.
Topics: Antioxidants; Plant Extracts; Cholinesterase Inhibitors; Plant Bark; Fabaceae; Phytochemicals; Ethanol; Flowers
PubMed: 38055580
DOI: 10.1590/1519-6984.275733