Submit to IJMS Review for IJMS Propose a Special Issue

Journal Menu

Journal Browser

Effects of Natural Products and Food in the Molecular Mechanisms of Disease Prevention

Special Issue Editors
Special Issue Information
Keywords
Published Papers

A special issue of International Journal of Molecular Sciences (ISSN 1422-0067). This special issue belongs to the section "Bioactives and Nutraceuticals".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: closed (31 August 2023) | Viewed by 10589

Share This Special Issue

Special Issue Editors

Dr. Olívia R. Pereira

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor

CIMO (Centro de Investigação de Montanha), Instituto Politecnico de Braganca, 5300-253 Braganca, Portugal
Interests: natural products; bioactive compounds; polyphenols; biological activity; pharmacological activity; drug discovery; cosmetics
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

Dr. Maria João Sousa

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor

Centro de Investigação de Montanha (CIMO), Instituto Politécnico de Bragança, Campus de Santa Apolónia, 5300-253 Bragança, Portugal
Interests: biology; chemistry of natural products; cosmetics; plant physiology and plant tissue culture
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

Dietary habits are recognized as important for the well-being, longevity and prevention of various diseases. Healthy food lifestyles, such as the Mediterranean diet, are characterized by several beneficial bioactive components which include, in addition to the classic long-chain fatty acids, the antioxidant polyphenols, as well as a huge mass of new phytochemicals that spread throughout the kingdom vegetable, from fruit and its drinks, to whole grains, legumes and spices.

In addition to nutrition, these natural products also contribute to the prevention of various chronic and non-chronic diseases, just think of ginseng, valerian, arnica, licorice, garlic, turmeric, milk thistle, etc. In recent years their use has increased significantly, and researchers have also invested heavily in identifying new pharmacological properties.

This Special Issue welcomes the submission of either original research manuscripts or reviews of the scientific literature, concerning biological properties of natural products and new and classical dietary bioactive compounds, nutraceutical or functional food in different clinical and experimental settings of disease, focusing on potential molecular mechanisms.

Dr. Olívia R. Pereira
Dr. Maria João Sousa
Guest Editors

Manuscript Submission Information

Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.mdpi.com by registering and logging in to this website. Once you are registered, click here to go to the submission form. Manuscripts can be submitted until the deadline. All submissions that pass pre-check are peer-reviewed. Accepted papers will be published continuously in the journal (as soon as accepted) and will be listed together on the special issue website. Research articles, review articles as well as short communications are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 100 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for announcement on this website.

Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. International Journal of Molecular Sciences is an international peer-reviewed open access semimonthly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. There is an Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal. For details about the APC please see here. Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

Keywords

natural products
food
biological activity
plant side effects
pharmacological interactions
nutraceutical
microbiome
vitamins
metabolism
gastrointestinal disorders
medical use
cancer

Published Papers (6 papers)

Download All Papers

Research

Jump to: Review

14 pages, 4933 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Astragalus membranaceus Extract Induces Apoptosis via Generation of Reactive Oxygen Species and Inhibition of Heat Shock Protein 27 and Androgen Receptor in Prostate Cancers

by Seok-Young Kim, Ji Eon Park, Hyo-Jung Lee, Deok Yong Sim, Chi-Hoon Ahn, Su-Yeon Park, Bum-Sang Shim, Bonglee Kim, Dae Young Lee and Sung-Hoon Kim

Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2024, 25(5), 2799; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/ijms25052799 - 28 Feb 2024

Viewed by 634

Abstract

Although Astragalus membranaceus is known to have anti-inflammatory, anti-obesity, and anti-oxidant properties, the underlying apoptotic mechanism of Astragalus membranaceus extract has never been elucidated in prostate cancer. In this paper, the apoptotic mechanism of a water extract from the dried root of Astragalus membranaceus (WAM) was investigated in prostate cancer cells in association with heat shock protein 27 (HSP27)/androgen receptor (AR) signaling. WAM increased cytotoxicity and the sub-G1 population, cleaved poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase (PARP) and cysteine aspartyl-specific protease 3 (caspase 3), and attenuated the expression of B-cell lymphoma 2 (Bcl-2) in LNCaP cells after 24 h of exposure. Consistently, WAM significantly increased the number of terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick end labeling (TUNEL)-positive LNCaP cells. WAM decreased the phosphorylation of HSP27 on Ser82 and inhibited the expression of the AR and prostate-specific antigen (PSA), along with reducing the nuclear translocation of p-HSP27 and the AR via the disturbed binding of p-HSP27 with the AR in LNCaP cells. WAM consistently inhibited the expression of the AR and PSA in dihydrotestosterone (DHT)-treated LNCaP cells. WAM also suppressed AR stability, both in the presence and absence of cycloheximide, in LNCaP cells. Taken together, these findings provide evidence that WAM induces apoptosis via the inhibition of HSP27/AR signaling in prostate cancer cells and is a potent anticancer candidate for prostate cancer treatment. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Effects of Natural Products and Food in the Molecular Mechanisms of Disease Prevention)

► Show Figures

Graphical abstract

15 pages, 2110 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Protective Effects of Moisturizer Containing Potentilla anserina Extract in the Topical Treatment of Skin Damage Caused by Masks

by Hyeong Choi, Ji Hoon Ha, Hee Cheol Kang, Won Sang Seo and Bum-Ho Bin

Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2023, 24(18), 14294; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/ijms241814294 - 19 Sep 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1131

Abstract

The use of face masks during the COVID-19 pandemic resulted in significant societal changes, particularly for individuals with sensitive skin. To address this issue, the researchers explored traditional medicine and identified Potentilla anserina extract as a potential solution due to its anti-inflammatory and moisturizing effects. This research investigated how this extract influences skin hydration, barrier function, and itching. The findings revealed that the extract had a hydrating effect by elevating Aquaporin-3 (AQP3) expression. Additionally, the study demonstrated that the extract improved skin barrier function, with Filaggrin (FLG) expression being approximately three times higher (p < 0.001) in the Potentilla-anserina-extract-treated group compared to the control group and the genes associated with itching being reduced. In this process, we researched and developed HPβCD (hydroxypropyl-β-cyclodextrin)-Liposome containing Potentilla anserina extract, gradually and sustainably releasing the active components of the Potentilla anserina extract. During four weeks of clinical trials involving individuals wearing masks for over 6 h a day, a moisturizer containing Potentilla anserina extract demonstrated a notable reduction in skin redness. Hemoglobin values (A.U.), which serve as indicators of skin redness, showed decreases of 5.06% and 6.74% in the test area inside the mask after 2 and 4 weeks, respectively, compared to the baseline measurements. Additionally, the moisturizer containing Potentilla anserina extract notably decreased Trans Epidermal Water Loss (TEWL), with reductions of 5.23% and 9.13% observed in the test area inside the mask after 2 and 4 weeks, respectively. The moisturizer, especially in the test area treated with the extract-containing moisturizer, significantly enhanced skin hydration compared to the control group. The Corneometer values (A.U) exhibited notable increases of 11.51% and 15.14% in the test area inside the mask after 2 and 4 weeks, respectively. These discoveries emphasize the potential of Potentilla anserina extract and its utility in tackling skin issues caused by mask wearing, including enhancing moisture, fortifying the skin’s barrier, and alleviating itching. These results indicate that moisturizers incorporating specific ingredients provide greater benefits compared to conventional moisturizers. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Effects of Natural Products and Food in the Molecular Mechanisms of Disease Prevention)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

21 pages, 7579 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Study of the Effect of Baicalin from Scutellaria baicalensis on the Gastrointestinal Tract Normoflora and Helicobacter pylori

by Anastasia Dmitrieva, Oksana Kozlova, Victor Atuchin, Irina Milentieva, Anna Vesnina, Svetlana Ivanova, Lyudmila Asyakina and Alexander Prosekov

Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2023, 24(15), 11906; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/ijms241511906 - 25 Jul 2023

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1463

Abstract

The antimicrobial properties of baicalin against H. pylori and several probiotic cultures were evaluated. Baicalin was isolated from a dry plant extract obtained by extraction with water at 70 °C. For isolation, extraction was carried out with n-butanol and purification on a chromatographic column. The antimicrobial potential was assessed by evaluating changes in the optical density of the bacterial suspension during cultivation; additionally, the disk diffusion method was used. During the study, the baicalin concentrations (0.25, 0.5, and 1 mg/mL) and the pH of the medium in the range of 1.5–8.0 were tested. The test objects were: suspensions of H. pylori, Lactobacillus casei, L. brevis, Bifidobacterium longum, and B. teenis. It was found that the greater the concentration of the substance in the solution, the greater the delay in the growth of the strain zone. Thus, the highest antimicrobial activity against H. pylori was observed at pH 1.5–2.0 and a baicalin concentration of 1.00 mg/mL. In relation to probiotic strains, a stimulating effect of baicalin (1.00 mg/mL) on the growth of L. casei biomass at pH 1.5–2.0 was observed. The results open up the prospects for the use of baicalin and probiotics for the treatment of diseases caused by H. pylori. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Effects of Natural Products and Food in the Molecular Mechanisms of Disease Prevention)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

20 pages, 3593 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Antiulcerogenic Potential of the Ethanolic Extract of Ceiba speciosa (A. St.-Hil.) Ravenna Evaluated by In Vitro and In Vivo Studies

by Juliana Andréa Dörr, Fernanda Majolo, Luísa Bortoluzzi, Evelin Zen de Vargas, Joana Silva, Manoela Pasini, Stefani Natali Stoll, Rafael Lopes da Rosa, Mariana Moreira Figueira, Márcio Fronza, Walter O. Beys-da-Silva, Alice Martins, Helena Gaspar, Rui P. Pedrosa, Stefan Laufer and Márcia Inês Goettert

Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2022, 23(24), 15634; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/ijms232415634 - 09 Dec 2022

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 1658

Abstract

Gastrointestinal diseases, such as peptic ulcers, are caused by a damage in the gastric mucosa provoked by several factors. This stomach injury is regulated by many inflammatory mediators and is commonly treated with proton-pump inhibitors, histamine H2 receptor blockers and antacids. However, various medicinal plants have demonstrated positive effects on gastric ulcer treatment, including plants of the Ceiba genus. The aim of this study was to evaluate the antiulcer and anti-inflammatory activities of the stem bark ethanolic extract of Ceiba speciosa (A. St.-Hil.) Ravenna. We performed a preliminary quantification of phenolic compounds by high-performance liquid chromatography-diode array detection (HPLC-DAD), followed by the prospection of other chemical groups through nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy. A set of in vitro assays was used to evaluate the extract potential regarding its antioxidant activity (DPPH: 19.83 ± 0.34 µg/mL; TPC: 307.20 ± 6.20 mg GAE/g of extract), effects on cell viability and on the release of TNF-α in whole human blood. Additionally, in vivo assays were performed to evaluate the leukocyte accumulation and total protein quantification in carrageenan-induced air pouch, as well as the antiulcerogenic effect of the extract on an ethanol-induced ulcer in rats. The extract contains flavonoids and phenolic compounds, as well as sugars and quinic acid derivatives exhibiting potent antioxidant activity and low toxicity. The extract reduced the release of TNF-α in human blood and inhibited the activity of p38α (1.66 µg/mL), JAK3 (5.25 µg/mL), and JNK3 (8.34 µg/mL). Moreover, it reduced the leukocyte recruitment on the pouch exudate and the formation of edema, reverting the effects caused by carrageenan. The extract presented a significant prevention of ulcer formation and a higher reduction than the reference drug, Omeprazole. Therefore, C. speciosa extract has demonstrated relevant therapeutic potential for the treatment of gastric diseases, deserving the continuation of further studies to unveil the mechanisms of action of plant bioactive ingredients. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Effects of Natural Products and Food in the Molecular Mechanisms of Disease Prevention)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

13 pages, 2895 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Ex Vivo and In Vitro Antiaging and Antioxidant Extract Activity of the Amelanchier ovalis from Siberia

by Lyudmila Asyakina, Victor Atuchin, Margarita Drozdova, Oksana Kozlova and Alexander Prosekov

Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2022, 23(23), 15156; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/ijms232315156 - 02 Dec 2022

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 1481

Abstract

Phenolic acids are biologically active substances that prevent aging and age-related diseases, e.g., cancer, cardiovascular diseases, Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, etc. Cellular senescence is related to oxidative stress. The Siberian Federal District is rich in medicinal plants whose extracts contain phenolic acids. These plants can serve as raw materials for antiaging, antioxidant food supplements, and Amelanchier ovalis is one of them. In the present research, we tested the phytochemical profile of its extract for phenolic acids. Its geroprotective and antioxidant properties were studied both ex vivo and in vitro using Saccharomyces cerevisiae Y-564 as a model organism. The chromotographic analysis revealed gallic, p-hydroxybenzoic, and protocatechuic acids, as well as derivatives of chlorogenic and gallic acids. The research involved 0.25, 0.5, and 1.0 mg/mL extracts of Amelanchier ovalis, all of which increased the growth and lifespan of yeast cells. In addition, the extracts increased the survival rate of yeast under oxidative stress. An in vitro experiment also demonstrated the antioxidant potential of Amelanchier ovalis against ABTS radicals. Therefore, the Amelanchier ovalis berry extract proved to be an excellent source of phenolic acids and may be recommended as a raw material for use in antioxidant and geroprotective food supplements. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Effects of Natural Products and Food in the Molecular Mechanisms of Disease Prevention)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

Review

Jump to: Research

15 pages, 833 KiB

Open AccessReview

Promising Role of the Scutellaria baicalensis Root Hydroxyflavone–Baicalein in the Prevention and Treatment of Human Diseases

by Marcelina Chmiel and Monika Stompor-Gorący

Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2023, 24(5), 4732; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/ijms24054732 - 01 Mar 2023

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 3625

Abstract

Plant roots, due to a high content of natural antioxidants for many years, have been used in herbal medicine. It has been documented that the extract of Baikal skullcap (Scutellaria baicalensis) has hepatoprotective, calming, antiallergic, and anti-inflammatory properties. Flavonoid compounds found in the extract, including baicalein, have strong antiradical activity, which improves overall health and increases feelings of well-being. Plant-derived bioactive compounds with antioxidant activity have for a long time been used as an alternative source of medicines to treat oxidative stress-related diseases. In this review, we summarized the latest reports on one of the most important aglycones with respect to the pharmacological activity and high content in Baikal skullcap, which is 5,6,7-trihydroxyflavone (baicalein). Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Effects of Natural Products and Food in the Molecular Mechanisms of Disease Prevention)

► Show Figures