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Biological Activities of Natural Products II

A special issue of Molecules (ISSN 1420-3049). This special issue belongs to the section "Natural Products Chemistry".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: closed (31 December 2021) | Viewed by 50497

Special Issue Editors

Head of Chair and Department of Pharmaceutical Botany, Pharmaceutical Faculty, Jagiellonian University, Medical College, Krakow, Poland
Interests: pharmaceutical botany; plant biotechnology (plant in vitro cultures, endogenic production of bioactive products; biotransformation of egzogenic substrates); phytochemistry (quantification of natural products, isolation of natural products); medicinal plants; cosmetic plants, biotechnology of mushrooms; mycochemistry (chemistry of fruitbodies of mushrooms and mycelial cultures); natural products; bioactive compounds (especially coumarins, phenolic acids, flavonoids, schisandra lignans, nonhalucinogenic indole compounds, and polysaccharides); ethnobotany; ethnopharmacology
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals
Department of Pharmaceutical Botany, Medical College, Jagiellonian University, ul. Medyczna 9, 30-688 Kraków, Poland
Interests: plant biotechnology; phytochemistry; phytotherapy; lignans; polyphenols
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

Natural products originating from the plant kingdom offer an unexplored wealth of potentially valuable medicinal, health promoting and cosmetic applications.

In recent years, special attention has been given to natural products exhibiting antioxidant and antiproliferative/anticancer properties. They are of vital importance since they can be used in the treatment and prevention of different lifestyle diseases. Plant extracts and/or isolated compounds exhibiting other directions of biological activities, such as anti-inflammatory, immunostimulating or antimicrobial effects and also cardioprotective, neuroprotective, and antidiabetic activities, are also very significant.

The results of biological activity studies of to date unknown and/or uninvestigated natural products can broaden the range of professional phytotherapeutics available in different regions of the world, including Europe. The selection of plant-derived medicinal products can also be expanded through the verification of ethnobotanical and ethnopharmacological knowledge of various ethnic groups in the world.

In addition to plants, fruitbodies of mushrooms, algae and lichens are rich and still unrecognized sources of natural products.

The main aim of the Special Issue on “Biological Activities of Natural Products” is to present the newest results of investigations and findings in the above-presented area. Results presenting the correlation between chemical composition of extracts and/or isolated compounds and their biological activity are particularly welcome. Research on antioxidant and antiproliferative/anticancer activities of extracts and/or isolated products will be preferentially considered. All research on the other above-mentioned activities will also be received with much interest. The results of biological activity studies documented in vitro and in vivo, as well as results of clinical investigations, will be anticipated.

Original papers or review articles are welcome.

Prof. Dr. Halina Ekiert
Dr. Agnieszka Szopa
Guest Editors

Manuscript Submission Information

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Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 2700 CHF (Swiss Francs). 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

  • Bioactive natural compounds
  • Antioxidants
  • Polyphenols
  • Antioxidant activity
  • Anticancer/antiproliferative activity
  • Anti-inflammatory activity
  • Immunostimulating activity
  • Antimicrobial activity
  • Other activities
  • In vitro approach
  • In vivo approach
  • Clinical investigations
  • Ethnopharmacological indications
  • Ethnobotanical indications

Published Papers (18 papers)

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Editorial

Jump to: Research, Review

4 pages, 187 KiB  
Editorial
Biological Activities of Natural Products II
by Halina Maria Ekiert and Agnieszka Szopa
Molecules 2022, 27(5), 1519; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/molecules27051519 - 24 Feb 2022
Cited by 9 | Viewed by 1479
Abstract
Natural products of different origin and their potential therapeutic activities are of unceasing widespread interest to many scientific teams from all around the world [...] Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biological Activities of Natural Products II)

Research

Jump to: Editorial, Review

12 pages, 2556 KiB  
Article
Apigenin Isolated from Carduus crispus Protects against H2O2-Induced Oxidative Damage and Spermatogenic Expression Changes in GC-2spd Sperm Cells
by Spandana Rajendra Kopalli, Sung-Kwang Yoo, Bokyung Kim, Si-Kwan Kim and Sushruta Koppula
Molecules 2022, 27(6), 1777; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/molecules27061777 - 08 Mar 2022
Cited by 5 | Viewed by 1712
Abstract
Testicular oxidative stress is one of the most common factors underlying male infertility. Welted thistle, Carduus crispus Linn., and its bioactive principles are attracting scientific interest in treating male reproductive dysfunctions. Here, the protective effects of apigenin isolated from C. crispus against oxidative [...] Read more.
Testicular oxidative stress is one of the most common factors underlying male infertility. Welted thistle, Carduus crispus Linn., and its bioactive principles are attracting scientific interest in treating male reproductive dysfunctions. Here, the protective effects of apigenin isolated from C. crispus against oxidative damage induced by hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) and dysregulation in spermatogenesis associated parameters in testicular sperm cells was investigated. Cell viabilities, ROS scavenging effects, and spermatogenic associated molecular expressions were measured by MTT, DCF-DA, Western blotting and real-time RT-PCR, respectively. A single peak with 100% purity of apigenin was obtained in HPLC conditions. Apigenin treated alone (2.5, 5, 10 and 20 µM) did not exhibit cytotoxicity, but inhibited the H2O2-induced cellular damage and elevated ROS levels significantly (p < 0.05 at 5, 10 and 20 µM) and dose-dependently. Further, H2O2-induced down-regulation of antioxidant (glutathione S-transferases m5, glutathione peroxidase 4, and peroxiredoxin 3) and spermatogenesis-associated (nectin-2 and phosphorylated-cAMP response element-binding protein) molecular expression in GC-2spd cells were attenuated by apigenin at both protein and mRNA levels (p < 0.05). In conclusion, our study showed that apigenin isolated from C. crispus might be an effective agent that can protect ROS-induced testicular dysfunctions. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biological Activities of Natural Products II)
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16 pages, 4454 KiB  
Article
Quality Related Safety Evaluation of a South African Traditional Formulation (PHELA®) as Novel Anti-Biofilm Candidate
by Bhaskar Das, Amit Kar, Rudranil Bhowmik, Sanmoy Karmakar, Satyajit Tripathy, Motlalepula G. Matsabisa and Pulok Kumar Mukherjee
Molecules 2022, 27(4), 1219; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/molecules27041219 - 11 Feb 2022
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1797
Abstract
A South African traditional formulation, PHELA®, is consumed by the traditional people for severe chest problems with coughing, diarrhea, oral ulcers etc. The present study focused on establishing the anti-infective properties of a safe and standardized poly-herbal formulation through a series [...] Read more.
A South African traditional formulation, PHELA®, is consumed by the traditional people for severe chest problems with coughing, diarrhea, oral ulcers etc. The present study focused on establishing the anti-infective properties of a safe and standardized poly-herbal formulation through a series of criteria and specifications. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biological Activities of Natural Products II)
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24 pages, 3508 KiB  
Article
Antioxidant Potential and Enhancement of Bioactive Metabolite Production in In Vitro Cultures of Scutellaria lateriflora L. by Biotechnological Methods
by Inga Kwiecień, Natalizia Miceli, Manuela D’Arrigo, Andreana Marino and Halina Ekiert
Molecules 2022, 27(3), 1140; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/molecules27031140 - 08 Feb 2022
Cited by 13 | Viewed by 2191
Abstract
Studies carried out using three different in vitro assays and a biological setting (Escherichia coil) demonstrated the antioxidant activity of Scutellaria lateriflora microshoot extract. Moreover, the extract exhibited no toxicity in a brine shrimp lethality bioassay. These results indicated that microshoots [...] Read more.
Studies carried out using three different in vitro assays and a biological setting (Escherichia coil) demonstrated the antioxidant activity of Scutellaria lateriflora microshoot extract. Moreover, the extract exhibited no toxicity in a brine shrimp lethality bioassay. These results indicated that microshoots are a rich, safe source of antioxidants, which encouraged us to enhance their production in vitro. In agar and agitated cultures, two biotechnological strategies were applied: feeding the cultures with the biogenetic precursors of the phenolics—phenylalanine and tyrosine, and eliciting them with methyl jasmonate. Specific Scutellaria flavonoids and verbascoside were analysed by HPLC. Feeding with precursors (1 g/L) in agar cultures decreased the production of the metabolites. In agitated cultures, different concentrations of precursors (1.0–2.5 g/L) and the elicitor (10; 50; 100 µM) were tested. Additionally, parallel feeding with the precursor and elicitor in a concentration of 50 µM were applied. The best strategy for total flavonoid and verbascoside production was phenylalanine feeding (1.5 g/L), max. 3765 and 475 mg/100 g DW, respectively, after 7 days. This is the first report documenting the high antioxidant production in S. lateriflora microshoots after feeding with phenylalanine. Moreover, for the first time, bioreactor cultures were successfully maintained, obtaining attractive results (max. total flavonoid content 2348 and verbascoside 485 mg/100 g DW). Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biological Activities of Natural Products II)
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23 pages, 3314 KiB  
Article
Antidiarrheal and Antibacterial Activities of Monterey Cypress Phytochemicals: In Vivo and In Vitro Approach
by Elshaymaa I. Elmongy, Walaa A. Negm, Engy Elekhnawy, Thanaa A. El-Masry, Nashwah G. M. Attallah, Najla Altwaijry, Gaber El-Saber Batiha and Suzy A. El-Sherbeni
Molecules 2022, 27(2), 346; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/molecules27020346 - 06 Jan 2022
Cited by 28 | Viewed by 2297
Abstract
Monterey cypress (Cupressus macrocarpa) is a decorative plant; however, it possesses various pharmacological activities. Therefore, we explored the phytochemical profile of C. macrocarpa root methanol extract (CRME) for the first time. Moreover, we investigated its antidiarrheal (in vivo), antibacterial, and antibiofilm [...] Read more.
Monterey cypress (Cupressus macrocarpa) is a decorative plant; however, it possesses various pharmacological activities. Therefore, we explored the phytochemical profile of C. macrocarpa root methanol extract (CRME) for the first time. Moreover, we investigated its antidiarrheal (in vivo), antibacterial, and antibiofilm (in vitro) activities against Salmonella enterica clinical isolates. The LC-ESI-MS/MS analysis of CRME detected the presence of 39 compounds, besides isolation of 2,3,2″,3″-tetrahydro-4′-O-methyl amentoflavone, amentoflavone, and dihydrokaempferol-3-O-α-l-rhamnoside for the first time. Dihydrokaempferol-3-O-α-l-rhamnoside presented the highest antimicrobial activity and the range of values of MICs against S. enterica isolates was from 64 to 256 µg/mL. The antidiarrheal activity of CRME was investigated by induction of diarrhea using castor oil, and exhibited a significant reduction in diarrhea and defecation frequency at all doses, enteropooling (at 400 mg/kg), and gastrointestinal motility (at 200, 400 mg/kg) in mice. The antidiarrheal index of CRME increased in a dose-dependent manner. The effect of CRME on various membrane characters of S. enterica was studied after typing the isolates by ERIC-PCR. Its impact on efflux and its antibiofilm activity were inspected. The biofilm morphology was observed using light and scanning electron microscopes. The effect on efflux activity and biofilm formation was further elucidated using qRT-PCR. A significant increase in inner and outer membrane permeability and a significant decrease in integrity and depolarization (using flow cytometry) were detected with variable percentages. Furthermore, a significant reduction in efflux and biofilm formation was observed. Therefore, CRME could be a promising source for treatment of gastrointestinal tract diseases. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biological Activities of Natural Products II)
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14 pages, 4443 KiB  
Article
Kuwanon T and Sanggenon a Isolated from Morus alba Exert Anti-Inflammatory Effects by Regulating NF-κB and HO-1/Nrf2 Signaling Pathways in BV2 and RAW264.7 Cells
by Wonmin Ko, Zhiming Liu, Kwan-Woo Kim, Linsha Dong, Hwan Lee, Na Young Kim, Dong-Sung Lee and Eun-Rhan Woo
Molecules 2021, 26(24), 7642; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/molecules26247642 - 16 Dec 2021
Cited by 5 | Viewed by 2393
Abstract
We previously investigated the methanolic extract of Morus alba bark and characterized 11 compounds from the extract: kuwanon G (1), kuwanon E (2), kuwanon T (3), sanggenon A (4), sanggenon M (5), sanggenol [...] Read more.
We previously investigated the methanolic extract of Morus alba bark and characterized 11 compounds from the extract: kuwanon G (1), kuwanon E (2), kuwanon T (3), sanggenon A (4), sanggenon M (5), sanggenol A (6), mulberofuran B (7), mulberofuran G (8), moracin M (9), moracin O (10), and norartocarpanone (11). Herein, we investigated the anti-inflammatory effects of these compounds on microglial cells (BV2) and macrophages (RAW264.7). Among them, 3 and 4 markedly inhibited the lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced production of nitric oxide in these cells, suggesting the anti-inflammatory properties of these two compounds. These compounds inhibited the production of prostaglandin E2, interleukin-6, and tumor necrosis factor-α, and the expression of inducible nitric oxide synthase and cyclooxygenase-2 following LPS stimulation. Pretreatment with 3 and 4 inhibited the activation of the nuclear factor kappa B signaling pathway in both cell types. The compounds also induced the expression of heme oxygenase (HO)-1 through the activation of nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2. Suppressing the activity of HO-1 reversed the anti-inflammatory effects caused by pretreatment with 3 and 4, suggesting that the anti-inflammatory effects were regulated by HO-1. Taken together, 3 and 4 are potential candidates for developing therapeutic and preventive agents for inflammatory diseases. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biological Activities of Natural Products II)
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27 pages, 33361 KiB  
Article
Linnaea borealis L. var. borealis—In Vitro Cultures and Phytochemical Screening as a Dual Strategy for Its Ex Situ Conservation and a Source of Bioactive Compounds of the Rare Species
by Barbara Thiem, Dariusz Kruszka, Natalia Turowska, Elwira Sliwinska, Viktor Berge and Małgorzata Kikowska
Molecules 2021, 26(22), 6823; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/molecules26226823 - 11 Nov 2021
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 1868
Abstract
Linnaea borealis L. (Twinflower)—a dwarf shrub in the Linnaeeae tribe of Caprifoliaceae family—is distributed across the Northern Hemisphere. By means of this study, a reliable protocol for efficient micropropagation of uniform L. borealis L. var. borealis plantlets has been provided for the first [...] Read more.
Linnaea borealis L. (Twinflower)—a dwarf shrub in the Linnaeeae tribe of Caprifoliaceae family—is distributed across the Northern Hemisphere. By means of this study, a reliable protocol for efficient micropropagation of uniform L. borealis L. var. borealis plantlets has been provided for the first time; callus culture was also established. Different initial explants, types of cultures, media systems, and plant growth regulators in Murashige and Skoog (MS) media were tested. Agitated shoot cultures in the liquid media turned out to be the best system for the production of sustainable plant biomass. After stabilization of the callus lines, the highest growth index (c.a. 526%) was gained for callus maintained on MS enriched with picloram. TLC and UHPLC-HESI-HRMS analysis confirmed the presence of phenolic acids and flavonoids, and for the first time, the presence of iridoids and triterpenoid saponins in this species. Multiplication of L. borealis shoot culture provides renewable raw material, allowing for the assessment of the phytochemical profile, and, in the future, for the quantitative analyses and the studies of the biological activity of extracts, fractions, or isolated compounds. This is the first report on in vitro cultures of traditionally used L. borealis rare taxon and its biosynthetic potential. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biological Activities of Natural Products II)
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15 pages, 3785 KiB  
Article
Caryophyllene Oxide, the Active Compound Isolated from Leaves of Hymenaea courbaril L. (Fabaceae) with Antiproliferative and Apoptotic Effects on PC-3 Androgen-Independent Prostate Cancer Cell Line
by Claudia Delgado, Gina Mendez-Callejas and Crispin Celis
Molecules 2021, 26(20), 6142; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/molecules26206142 - 12 Oct 2021
Cited by 20 | Viewed by 2115
Abstract
Cancer treatment frequently carries side effects, therefore, the search for new selective and effective molecules is indispensable. Hymenaea courbaril L. has been used in traditional medicine in South America to treat several diseases, including prostate cancer. Leaves’ extracts from different polarities were evaluated [...] Read more.
Cancer treatment frequently carries side effects, therefore, the search for new selective and effective molecules is indispensable. Hymenaea courbaril L. has been used in traditional medicine in South America to treat several diseases, including prostate cancer. Leaves’ extracts from different polarities were evaluated using the 3-(4,5-methyl-thiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyl-tetrazolium bromide (MTT) cell viability assay to determine the cytotoxicity in prostate p53-null cells, followed by bio-guided fractionations to obtain the most cytotoxic fraction considering the selectivity index. The most cytotoxic fraction was analyzed by GC/MS to identify the active compounds. The majority compound, caryophyllene oxide, induced early and late apoptosis, depolarized the mitochondrial membrane, leading to several morphological changes and shifts in apoptotic proteins, and caspases were evidenced. Depolarization of the mitochondrial membrane releases the pro-apoptotic protein Bax from Bcl-xL. The apoptosis process is caspase-7 activation-dependent. Caryophyllene oxide is a safe anti-proliferative agent against PC-3 cells, inducing apoptosis with low toxicity towards normal cells. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biological Activities of Natural Products II)
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14 pages, 11839 KiB  
Article
Protective Effects of 6-Shogaol, an Active Compound of Ginger, in a Murine Model of Cisplatin-Induced Acute Kidney Injury
by Mi-Gyeong Gwon, Hyemin Gu, Jaechan Leem and Kwan-Kyu Park
Molecules 2021, 26(19), 5931; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/molecules26195931 - 30 Sep 2021
Cited by 21 | Viewed by 2306
Abstract
Acute kidney injury (AKI) is a dose-limiting side effect of cisplatin therapy in cancer patients. However, effective therapies for cisplatin-induced AKI are not available. Oxidative stress, tubular cell death, and inflammation are known to be the major pathological processes of the disease. 6-Shogaol [...] Read more.
Acute kidney injury (AKI) is a dose-limiting side effect of cisplatin therapy in cancer patients. However, effective therapies for cisplatin-induced AKI are not available. Oxidative stress, tubular cell death, and inflammation are known to be the major pathological processes of the disease. 6-Shogaol is a major component of ginger and exhibits anti-oxidative and anti-inflammatory effects. Accumulating evidence suggest that 6-shogaol may serve as a potential therapeutic agent for various inflammatory diseases. However, whether 6-shogaol exerts a protective effect on cisplatin-induced renal side effect has not yet been determined. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of 6-shogaol on cisplatin-induced AKI and to investigate its underlying mechanisms. An administration of 6-shogaol after cisplatin treatment ameliorated renal dysfunction and tubular injury, as shown by a reduction in serum levels of creatinine and blood urea nitrogen and an improvement in histological abnormalities. Mechanistically, 6-shogaol attenuated cisplatin-induced oxidative stress and modulated the renal expression of prooxidant and antioxidant enzymes. Apoptosis and necroptosis induced by cisplatin were also suppressed by 6-shogaol. Moreover, 6-shogaol inhibited cisplatin-induced cytokine production and immune cell infiltration. These results suggest that 6-shogaol exhibits therapeutic effects against cisplatin-induced AKI via the suppression of oxidative stress, tubular cell death, and inflammation. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biological Activities of Natural Products II)
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17 pages, 3667 KiB  
Article
Lichen-Derived Depsides and Depsidones Modulate the Nrf2, NF-κB and STAT3 Signaling Pathways in Colorectal Cancer Cells
by Katarzyna Papierska, Violetta Krajka-Kuźniak, Jarosław Paluszczak, Robert Kleszcz, Marcin Skalski, Elżbieta Studzińska-Sroka and Wanda Baer-Dubowska
Molecules 2021, 26(16), 4787; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/molecules26164787 - 07 Aug 2021
Cited by 10 | Viewed by 2166
Abstract
The study aimed to evaluate the possible modulation of Nrf2, NF-ĸB and STAT3 signaling pathways in the colorectal cancer (CRC) cells line DLD-1 and HCT116 by secondary metabolites of lichens. An attempt was made to indicate the most promising targets in these signaling [...] Read more.
The study aimed to evaluate the possible modulation of Nrf2, NF-ĸB and STAT3 signaling pathways in the colorectal cancer (CRC) cells line DLD-1 and HCT116 by secondary metabolites of lichens. An attempt was made to indicate the most promising targets in these signaling pathways. Attention was also paid to the effects of the compounds tested on CRC cells using anakoinosis—that is, simultaneous analysis of several signaling pathways. The effects of the tested natural compounds on the activity of selected transcriptional factors related to CRC were analyzed by Western blot and RT-PCR assays. The highest activity against CRC cells was shown by physodic and salazinic acids from the studied secondary metabolites of lichens. As a result, an increase in the activation of transcription factor Nrf2 and the expression of its selected target genes was observed. Physodic and salazinic acids induced the opposite effect in relation to the NF-κB and STAT3 pathways. These results confirmed our earlier observations that lichen-derived compounds have the ability to modulate signaling pathway networks. While caperatic acid affected Wnt/β-catenin to the most extent, salazinic acid was the most potent modulator of Nrf2, NF-κB and STAT3 pathways. Physodic acid seemed to affect all the investigated pathways. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biological Activities of Natural Products II)
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24 pages, 1590 KiB  
Article
Precursor-Boosted Production of Metabolites in Nasturtium officinale Microshoots Grown in Plantform Bioreactors, and Antioxidant and Antimicrobial Activities of Biomass Extracts
by Marta Klimek-Szczykutowicz, Michał Dziurka, Ivica Blažević, Azra Đulović, Małgorzata Miazga-Karska, Katarzyna Klimek, Halina Ekiert and Agnieszka Szopa
Molecules 2021, 26(15), 4660; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/molecules26154660 - 31 Jul 2021
Cited by 8 | Viewed by 1984
Abstract
The study demonstrated the effects of precursor feeding on the production of glucosinolates (GSLs), flavonoids, polyphenols, saccharides, and photosynthetic pigments in Nasturtium officinale microshoot cultures grown in Plantform bioreactors. It also evaluated the antioxidant and antimicrobial activities of extracts. L-phenylalanine (Phe) and L-tryptophan [...] Read more.
The study demonstrated the effects of precursor feeding on the production of glucosinolates (GSLs), flavonoids, polyphenols, saccharides, and photosynthetic pigments in Nasturtium officinale microshoot cultures grown in Plantform bioreactors. It also evaluated the antioxidant and antimicrobial activities of extracts. L-phenylalanine (Phe) and L-tryptophan (Trp) as precursors were tested at 0.05, 0.1, 0.5, 1.0, and 3.0 mM. They were added at the beginning (day 0) or on day 10 of the culture. Microshoots were harvested after 20 days. Microshoots treated with 3.0 mM Phe (day 0) had the highest total GSL content (269.20 mg/100 g DW). The qualitative and quantitative profiles of the GSLs (UHPLC-DAD-MS/MS) were influenced by precursor feeding. Phe at 3.0 mM stimulated the best production of 4-methoxyglucobrassicin (149.99 mg/100 g DW) and gluconasturtiin (36.17 mg/100 g DW). Total flavonoids increased to a maximum of 1364.38 mg/100 g DW with 3.0 mM Phe (day 0), and polyphenols to a maximum of 1062.76 mg/100 g DW with 3.0 mM Trp (day 0). The precursors also increased the amounts of p-coumaric and ferulic acids, and rutoside, and generally increased the production of active photosynthetic pigments. Antioxidant potential increased the most with 0.1 mM Phe (day 0) (CUPRAC, FRAP), and with 0.5 mM Trp (day 10) (DPPH). The extracts of microshoots treated with 3.0 mM Phe (day 0) showed the most promising bacteriostatic activity against microaerobic Gram-positive acne strains (MIC 250–500 µg/mL, 20–21 mm inhibition zones). No extract was cytotoxic to normal human fibroblasts over the tested concentration range (up to 250 μg/mL). Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biological Activities of Natural Products II)
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13 pages, 2573 KiB  
Article
Germacranolides from Carpesium divaricatum: Some New Data on Cytotoxic and Anti-Inflammatory Activity
by Natalia Kłeczek, Janusz Malarz, Barbara Gierlikowska, Łukasz Skalniak, Agnieszka Galanty, Anna K. Kiss and Anna Stojakowska
Molecules 2021, 26(15), 4644; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/molecules26154644 - 30 Jul 2021
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2771
Abstract
Carpesium divaricatum Sieb. & Zucc., a traditional medicinal plant used as an inflammation-relieving remedy, is a rich source of terpenoids. At least 40 germacrane-type sesquiterpene lactones, representatives of four different structural groups, were isolated from the plant. Cytotoxicity against cancer cells in vitro [...] Read more.
Carpesium divaricatum Sieb. & Zucc., a traditional medicinal plant used as an inflammation-relieving remedy, is a rich source of terpenoids. At least 40 germacrane-type sesquiterpene lactones, representatives of four different structural groups, were isolated from the plant. Cytotoxicity against cancer cells in vitro is the most frequently described biological activity of the compounds. However, little is known about the selectivity of the cytotoxic effect. The anti-inflammatory activity of the germacranolides is also poorly documented. The objective of the present study was to assess the cytotoxic activity of selected C. divaricatum germacranolides-derivatives of 4,5,8,9-tetrahydroxy-3-oxo-germacran-6,12-olide towards cancer and normal cell lines (including cells of different p53 status). Moreover, to assess the anti-inflammatory effect of the compounds, the release of four proinflammatory cytokines/chemokines (IL-1β, IL-8, TNF-α and CCL2) by lipopolysaccharide-stimulated human neutrophils was measured by ELISA. The investigated sesquiterpene lactones demonstrated nonselective activity towards prostate cancer (Du145 and PC3) and normal prostate epithelial cells (PNT2) as well as against melanoma cells (A375 and HTB140) and keratinocytes (HaCaT). Cytotoxic activity against osteosarcoma cells was independent of their p53 status. In sub-cytotoxic concentrations (0.5–2.5 µM) the studied compounds significantly decreased cytokine/chemokine release by lipopolysaccharide-stimulated human leukocytes. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biological Activities of Natural Products II)
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10 pages, 1734 KiB  
Communication
Phenolic Constituents from Platycodon grandiflorum Root and Their Anti-Inflammatory Activity
by Wei Li and Hye Jin Yang
Molecules 2021, 26(15), 4530; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/molecules26154530 - 27 Jul 2021
Cited by 13 | Viewed by 2413
Abstract
Six lignols (16), including two new compounds (+)-(7R,8R)-palmitoyl alatusol D (1) and (+)-(7R,8R)-linoleyl alatusol D (2), along with four phenolics (710), a neolignan [...] Read more.
Six lignols (16), including two new compounds (+)-(7R,8R)-palmitoyl alatusol D (1) and (+)-(7R,8R)-linoleyl alatusol D (2), along with four phenolics (710), a neolignan (11), three alkyl aryl ether-type lignans (1214), two furofuran-type lignans (1516), three benzofuran-type lignans (1719), a tetrahydrofuran-type lignan (20), and a dibenzylbutane-type lignan (21) were isolated from the ethyl acetate-soluble fraction of the methanol extract of Platycodon grandiflorum (Jacq.) A. DC. root. The chemical structures of the obtained compounds were elucidated via high-resolution mass spectrometry and nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy analyses. The obtained spectroscopic data agreed well with literature. Among the isolated compounds, eighteen (17 and 1121) were isolated from P. grandiflorum and the Campanulaceae family for the first time. This is the first report on lignol and lignan components of P. grandiflorum. The anti-inflammatory effects of the isolated compounds were examined in terms of their ability to inhibit the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines IL-6, IL-12 p40, and TNF-α in lipopolysaccharide-stimulated murine RAW264.7 macrophage cells. Nine compounds (46, 12, and 1519) exhibited inhibitory effects on IL-12 p40 production, eleven compounds (16, 12, 1517, and 19) exhibited inhibitory activity on IL-6 production, and eleven compounds (16 and 1519) exhibited inhibitory effects against TNF-α. These results warrant further investigation into the potential anti-inflammatory activity and general benefits of the phenolic constituents of P. grandiflorum root. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biological Activities of Natural Products II)
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19 pages, 6298 KiB  
Article
Rosa platyacantha Schrenk from Kazakhstan—Natural Source of Bioactive Compounds with Cosmetic Significance
by Askhat Sabitov, Katarzyna Gaweł-Bęben, Zuriyadda Sakipova, Marcelina Strzępek-Gomółka, Uliana Hoian, Elmira Satbayeva, Kazimierz Głowniak and Agnieszka Ludwiczuk
Molecules 2021, 26(9), 2578; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/molecules26092578 - 28 Apr 2021
Cited by 7 | Viewed by 2295
Abstract
Plants belonging to the Rosa genus are known for their high content of bioactive molecules and broad spectrum of healing and cosmetic activities. Rosa platyacantha Schrenk is a wild-type species abundant in the mountainous regions of Kazakhstan. The phytochemical composition as well as [...] Read more.
Plants belonging to the Rosa genus are known for their high content of bioactive molecules and broad spectrum of healing and cosmetic activities. Rosa platyacantha Schrenk is a wild-type species abundant in the mountainous regions of Kazakhstan. The phytochemical composition as well as the bioactivity of R. platyacantha extracts have not been fully investigated to date. In this study, various parts of R. platyacantha plant, collected in Almaty region, Kazakhstan, were used to prepare five hydroalcoholic extracts (R1–R5). The extracts were compared for the content of phytochemicals and selected biological activities, which are important for the potential cosmetic application of R. platyacantha. Extract R3, prepared from flower buds, showed the most significant antioxidant and tyrosinase inhibitory potential, decreasing the monophenolase and diphenolase activities of tyrosinase. Extract R3 showed also collagenase inhibitory activity and cytotoxicity against human melanoma cells A375, being less cytotoxic for noncancerous skin keratinocytes HaCaT. Analysis of fractions E and F, obtained from R3 extracts, revealed that quercetin, kaempferol, rutin, and their derivatives are more likely responsible for the tyrosinase inhibitory properties of R. platyacantha extracts. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biological Activities of Natural Products II)
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10 pages, 946 KiB  
Article
Morus alba Prevented the Cyclophosphamide Induced Somatic and Germinal Cell Damage in Male Rats by Ameliorating the Antioxidant Enzyme Levels
by Abhijit Ghosh, Syed Imam Rabbani, Syed Mohammed Basheeruddin Asdaq, Yahya Mohzari, Ahmed Alrashed, Hamdan Najib Alajami, Awad Othman Aljohani, Abdullah Ali Al Mushtawi, Majed Sultan Alenazy, Rakan Fahad Alamer and Abdulmajead Khalid Alanazi
Molecules 2021, 26(5), 1266; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/molecules26051266 - 26 Feb 2021
Cited by 5 | Viewed by 1699
Abstract
Cytogenetic analysis is essential to determine the effect of mutagens and antimutagens on genetic material. This study was done to evaluate the protective effect of root bark extract of Morus alba (M. alba) against cyclophosphamide induced somatic and germinal cell damage [...] Read more.
Cytogenetic analysis is essential to determine the effect of mutagens and antimutagens on genetic material. This study was done to evaluate the protective effect of root bark extract of Morus alba (M. alba) against cyclophosphamide induced somatic and germinal cell damage in male rats. The ethanolic extract of M. alba (0.25, 0.5 and 1 g/kg, 2 weeks) was evaluated against cyclophosphamide (75 mg/kg, single dose) induced nuclear damage. The sampling was done after 48 h of the clastogen treatment. The somatic and germinal nuclear damage was studied by bone marrow micronucleus and sperm analysis, respectively. Serum superoxide and catalase levels were estimated to determine the antioxidant status in each group. The results were analyzed statistically to find the significant variation. The administration of M. alba for 2 weeks suppressed dose-dependently the changes induced by cyclophosphamide. M. alba (0.5 g/kg) decreased the frequency of micronucleated erythrocyte, sperm shape abnormality and enhanced the sperm count, sperm motility and polychromatic-normochromatic erythrocytes ratio significantly (p < 0.05) in comparison with the cyclophosphamide treated group. The highest tested dose of M. alba (1 g/kg) produced more prominent suppression (p < 0.01) in the cyclophosphamide-induced somatic and germinal cell defects. The results also showed significant (p < 0.05) improvement in the serum antioxidant enzymes levels with M. alba when compared with the challenge group. The lower dose of M. alba extract (0.25 g/kg) prevented the CP-induced changes but was found to be statistically insignificant. Therefore, antimutagenic potential of the high dose of the extract of M. alba is possibly due to its antioxidant nature. The ability of the M. alba extract to prevent the nuclear damage could play an important role in overcoming several mutational defects that are associated with anticancer chemotherapy. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biological Activities of Natural Products II)
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Review

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20 pages, 1177 KiB  
Review
The Current State of Knowledge on Salvia hispanica and Salviae hispanicae semen (Chia Seeds)
by Sara Motyka, Katarzyna Koc, Halina Ekiert, Eliza Blicharska, Katarzyna Czarnek and Agnieszka Szopa
Molecules 2022, 27(4), 1207; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/molecules27041207 - 11 Feb 2022
Cited by 21 | Viewed by 7568
Abstract
Chia seeds (Salviae hispanicae semen) are obtained from Salvia hispanica L. This raw material is distinguished by its rich chemical composition and valuable nutritional properties. It is currently referred to as “health food”. The purpose of the present work was to [...] Read more.
Chia seeds (Salviae hispanicae semen) are obtained from Salvia hispanica L. This raw material is distinguished by its rich chemical composition and valuable nutritional properties. It is currently referred to as “health food”. The purpose of the present work was to perform a literature review on S. hispanica and chia seeds, focusing on their chemical composition, biological properties, dietary importance, and medicinal uses. The valuable biological properties of chia seeds are related to their rich chemical composition, with particularly high content of polyunsaturated fatty acids, essential amino acids, polyphenols, as well as vitamins and bioelements. The available scientific literature indicates the cardioprotective, hypotensive, antidiabetic, and antiatherosclerotic effects of this raw material. In addition, studies based on in vitro assays and animal and human models have proven that chia seeds are characterized by neuroprotective, hepatoprotective, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties. These properties indicate a valuable role of chia in the prevention of civilization diseases. Chia seeds are increasingly popular in functional food and cosmetic and pharmaceutical industries. That is attributed not only to their desirable chemical composition and biological activity but also to their high availability. Nevertheless, S. hispanica is also the object of specific biotechnological studies aimed at elaboration of micropropagation protocols of this plant species. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biological Activities of Natural Products II)
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20 pages, 3751 KiB  
Review
Overview of the Biological Activity of Anthraquinons and Flavanoids of the Plant Rumex Species
by Dmitriy Berillo, Marzhan Kozhahmetova and Lina Lebedeva
Molecules 2022, 27(4), 1204; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/molecules27041204 - 10 Feb 2022
Cited by 12 | Viewed by 3699
Abstract
Rumex confertus belongs to the genus Rumex and is classified as an invasive parasitic plant in agriculture. Despite other Rumex species being widely used in herbal medicine due to their antimicrobial, antioxidant, antitumor, and anti-inflammatory effects, there are almost no information about the [...] Read more.
Rumex confertus belongs to the genus Rumex and is classified as an invasive parasitic plant in agriculture. Despite other Rumex species being widely used in herbal medicine due to their antimicrobial, antioxidant, antitumor, and anti-inflammatory effects, there are almost no information about the potential of Rumex confertus for the treatment of various diseases. In this review we analyzed scientific articles revealing properties of Rumex plant’s substances against cancer, diabetes, pathogenic bacterial invasions, viruses, inflammation, and oxidative stress for the past 20 years. Compounds dominating in each composition of solvents for extraction were discussed, and common thin layer chromatography(TLC) and high performance liquid chromatography(HPLC) methods for efficient separation of the plant’s extract are included. Physico-chemical properties such as solubility, hydrophobicity (Log P), pKa of flavonoids, anthraquinones, and other derivatives are very important for modeling of pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamics. An overview of clinical studies for abounded selected substances of Rumex species is presented. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biological Activities of Natural Products II)
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19 pages, 1459 KiB  
Review
Promising Strategies in Plant-Derived Treatments of Psoriasis-Update of In Vitro, In Vivo, and Clinical Trials Studies
by Martyna Nowak-Perlak, Krzysztof Szpadel, Izabella Jabłońska, Monika Pizon and Marta Woźniak
Molecules 2022, 27(3), 591; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/molecules27030591 - 18 Jan 2022
Cited by 13 | Viewed by 5764
Abstract
Psoriasis is a common, chronic systemic inflammatory disease affecting 125 million people worldwide. It is associated with several important conditions, including psoriatic arthritis, cardiometabolic syndrome, and depression, leading to a significant reduction in patients’ quality of life. Current treatments only reduce symptoms, not [...] Read more.
Psoriasis is a common, chronic systemic inflammatory disease affecting 125 million people worldwide. It is associated with several important conditions, including psoriatic arthritis, cardiometabolic syndrome, and depression, leading to a significant reduction in patients’ quality of life. Current treatments only reduce symptoms, not cure. This review discusses the mechanisms involved in the initiation and development of the disease, the role of oxidative stress in this autoimmune disease, as well as potential therapeutic options with substances of natural origin. The main aim of the study is intended to offer a review of the literature to present plants and phytochemicals that can represent potential remedies in the fight against psoriasis. We identified many in vitro, in vivo, and clinical trials studies that evaluated the relationship between chosen natural substances and immune system response in the course of psoriasis. We sought to find articles about the efficacy of potential natural-derived drugs in controlling symptoms and their ability to maintain long-term disease inactivity without side effects, and the result of our work is a review, which highlights the effectiveness of plant-derived drugs in controlling the inflammatory burden on psoriatic patients by decreasing the oxidative stress conditions. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biological Activities of Natural Products II)
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