فهرست مطالب

Research Journal of Pharmacognosy
Volume:11 Issue: 3, Summer 204
- تاریخ انتشار: 1403/04/11
- تعداد عناوین: 9
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Pages 1-13Background and objectivesBreast cancer is a highly common cancer that affects women worldwide. Different forms of breast cancer are currently treated using various strategies. One successful avenue in cancer therapy involves targeting anti-angiogenic factors. Extensive evidence supports the idea that umbelliprenin, a natural compound derived from plant species, possesses anti-cancer properties. In this research, we investigated the impact of umbelliprenin on the PI3K/AKT/mTOR and PI3K/AKT/MAPK signaling pathways, along with their downstream products HIF-1α/VEGF, within the T47D cell line.MethodsWe assessed the cytotoxic effects of umbelliprenin on T47D cell lines using the MTT method. Non-toxic concentrations, specifically IC5 and IC10 of umbelliprenin, were selected to investigate the effects on the signaling pathways. For T47D cells stimulated by EGF and cobalt chloride (CoCl2), we measured the mRNA levels of EGFR, PI3K, AKT, mTOR, S6K, HIF-1β, HIF-1α, VEGF, VEGFR, ERK1/2, and 4EBP1 using Real-time PCR. Additionally, we examined VEGF and HIF-1α protein expression through Western blot analysis.ResultsWe determined that the IC5 and IC10 concentrations of umbelliprenin were 10 and 20 µM, respectively, using the MTT method. Umbelliprenin significantly reduced the expression of VEGF and HIF1-α proteins in cells stimulated with EGF and CoCl2. It also led to a decrease in the mRNA levels of EGFR, PI3K, VEGF, mTOR, HIF1-α, HIF-1β, S6K, ERK2, and ERK1.ConclusionThe results of this study indicated that umbelliprenin, functioning as a cytotoxic agent, inhibits the PI3K/AKT/mTOR and PI3K/AKT/MAPK signaling pathways in T47D cells induced by EGF and CoCl2.Keywords: Angiogenesis Modulating Agents, Breast Neoplasm, Coumarins, Ethnopharmacology, Herbal Medicine
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Pages 15-22Background and objectivesAs the global geriatric population continues to grow, degenerative-related disorders such as impaired cognitive function, keep increasing. This is partly due to the aging process, which triggers an inflammaging phenomenon, characterized by elevated levels of transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) and caspase 3 cytokines. Moringa oleifera stands out as a solution, known for its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-aging properties. This study aimed to assess the effects of M. oleifera leaves extract and physical activity on the levels of TGF-β, caspase 3, and cognitive function in geriatric mice model.MethodsThirty mice were divided into five groups. The C1 group served as the negative control (given standardized food and water), while C2 was the positive control (treated with D-galactose 150 mg/kg BW/day intraperitoneally for eight weeks, followed by swimming for 30 minutes 2x/week, four weeks). The T1, T2, and T3 treatment groups received D-galactose 150 mg/kg BW/day for eight weeks and M. oleifera leaves extract at doses of 100, 200, and 400 mg/kg/day, respectively, along with a similar swimming session. At the end of the study, the mice were assessed for cognitive function using the Y-maze test, and then TGF-β and caspase 3 levels were measured.ResultsThe differences in TGF-β and caspase 3 levels between groups were statistically significant (p<0.05); however, no significant differences were observed in the cognitive function in any group (p>0.05).ConclusionMoringa oleifera leaves extract significantly influenced TGF-β and caspase 3 levels but did not affect the cognitive function of the geriatric mice model.Keywords: Caspase 3, Cognition, Moringa Oleifera, TGF-Β
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Pages 23-30Background and objectives
Epilepsy is a chronic disorder affecting a broad spectrum of individuals. Recently, there has been increased interest in the role of oxidative stress in epilepsy; adjuvant antiepileptic medicines aimed at reducing oxidative stress may serve as a novel therapeutic approach. In the present study, we investigated the effects of zingerone, a phenolic compound, on maximal electroshock (MES) and pentylenetetrazole (PTZ)-induced seizures and oxidant/antioxidant biomarkers in mice.
MethodsIn the MES model, the first and second groups received saline and phenytoin (25 mg/kg i.p.), respectively. Groups three to five received zingerone (5, 10, and 30 mg/kg). Thirty minutes later, the digital electroconvulsiometer developed seizures. In the PTZ model, the first and second groups received saline, whereas the others received diazepam (3 mg/kg, i.p.) or zingerone (5, 10, and 30 mg/kg). On day five, PTZ (80 mg/kg, i.p.) was administered to all groups. After behavioral experiments, the activity of the antioxidant enzymes superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT), and the level of thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) in the brain tissue of PTZ model mice were measured.
ResultsOur findings suggest that zingerone may have anticonvulsant effects by increasing latency and decreasing the duration of clonic convulsion, tonic hindlimb extension, and mortality rate. Additionally, zingerone administration increased SOD and CAT activities and decreased TBARS levels in the brain tissue of PTZ model mice.
ConclusionThis study suggests that zingerone protects against epileptic seizures and alleviates the oxidative stress associated with epilepsy pathogenesis.
Keywords: Electroshock, Epilepsy, Mice, Oxidative Stress, Pentylenetetrazole -
Pages 31-40Background and objectivesPositive role of coffee consumption on regulation of human blood sugar has been highlighted by researchers. On the other hand, metformin is the common drug against type 2 diabetes. This study aimed to explore possible ways to use coffee as a complementary agent beside metformin or independently versus type 2 diabetes.MethodsProteomic data about effect of two major compounds of coffee (caffeine and trigonelline) on improvement of diabetic condition was searched and analyzed via protein-protein interaction (PPI) network analysis and gene ontology enrichment. Gene expression profiles of human whole blood of diabetic patients (responsive to metformin) versus control were extracted from GSE83983 which is recorded in Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database. After pre-evaluation of data by GEO2R program, the significant differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were assessed via PPI network analysis and regulatory network evaluation.ResultsCaffeine and trigonelline effectively regulate the glycolytic processes to fight against diabetic condition. HSP90AA1, TLR4, RELA, ARRB, LRRK2, STAT5B, LYN, and TLR2 genes that are involved in diabetes were affected significantly by metformin.ConclusionIt can be concluded that coffee consumption can improve sugar regulation in diabetes similar to metformin. IT seems that the optimized consumption quantity of coffee can be considered as controller of blood sugar in diabetic patients.Keywords: Coffee, Diabetes, Gene, Metformin
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Pages 41-52Background and objectivesInhibition of tumor angiogenesis is a promising strategy employed in the treatment of various cancer types. Its clinical effectiveness is however constrained due to the adverse side effects of antiangiogenic drugs. There is growing interest in the use of medicinal plants for the development of novel drugs with enhanced efficacy. In the present study, we have evaluated three evergreen plants namely, Alstonia scholaris, Polyalthia longifolia, and Terminalia catappa for antiangiogenic properties.MethodsThe leaf extracts of the selected plants were investigated for antiproliferative effects on cervical cancer (SiHa) and Human endothelial (HUVEC) cell lines. The anti-angiogenic properties were evaluated in vitro using HUVEC tube formation and cell migration assays, and in vivo using chick chorioallantoic membrane (CAM) assay. They were further assessed for the expression of key angiogenesis-promoting genes HIF1 α, COX-2, VEGFA, and VEGFR2 using quantitative real-time PCR.ResultsThe three samples showed significant inhibition of the growth and differentiation of HUVEC cells, as well as the vascularization of CAM layer. Additionally, the extracts displayed a notable down-regulatory effect on the expression of angiogenesis promoter genes. Terminalia catappa demonstrated the highest efficacy in downregulating all genes. Polyalthia longifolia and Alstonia scholaris exhibited selective inhibition of HIF1 α and VEGFA genes, indicating variations in their anti-angiogenesis potential.ConclusionThe study highlighted the remarkable efficacy of Terminalia catappa in inhibiting angiogenesis and its associated genes across multiple pathways. Overall, the study, for the first time, identified the promising potential of three natural candidates for arresting angiogenesis.Keywords: Angiogenesis, Chorioallantoic Membrane, Medicinal Plants, Tumor Hypoxia
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Pages 53-65Background and objectiveThis study investigated the protective effects of kaempferol, a natural flavonoid known for its antioxidant properties, against ochratoxin A-induced renal damage. Ochratoxin A, a nephrotoxic mycotoxin found in contaminated food and feed, primarily induces renal damage through oxidative stress. The objective was to assess kaempferol’s potential in mitigating ochratoxin A -induced renal toxicity and its underlying molecular mechanisms.MethodsMale albino mice were divided into four groups: normal control, kaempferol control, ochratoxin A -induced renal toxicity, and ochratoxin A -induced renal toxicity treated with kaempferol. Ochratoxin A was administered twice a week for 8 weeks at 5 mg/kg body weight to induce renal toxicity. Kaempferol (50 mg/kg) was administered twice a week for 8 weeks after a 4-hour interval following ochratoxin A administration.ResultsResults showed that kaempferol normalized levels of blood urea nitrogen (BUN) and creatinine, indicating protection against ochratoxin A-induced pathophysiology. Kaempferol also increased phosphorylation of PI3K and AKT, potentially activating antioxidative and anti-apoptotic signaling pathways regulated by Nrf2. Additionally, kaempferol enhanced Bcl-2 activation while suppressing caspase-3, suggesting anti-apoptotic effects. Histopathological analysis revealed reduced renal damage in kaempferol-treated mice compared to those exposed to ochratoxin A alone.ConclusionKaempferol demonstrated efficacy in preventing ochratoxin A -induced kidney injury through antioxidative and anti-apoptotic mechanisms. These findings suggest potential therapeutic applications of kaempferol in oxidative stress-induced renal damage.Keywords: Kaempferol, Ochratoxin A, Oxidative Stress, PI3K, Akt, Renal Toxicity
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Pages 67-75Background and objectives
Clinical studies have consistently identified depression-related disorders as the most prevalent neuropsychiatric symptoms in Alzheimer's disease (AD). Quercetin has garnered significant attention as a therapeutic approach for various neuropsychiatric conditions, particularly symptoms of depression in individuals. This study aimed to compare the neuroprotective effects of quercetin on depression-like behaviors and serum levels of anti-inflammatory cytokines, such as tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α and galectin (Gal)-3, in a rat model of AD.
MethodsForty-eight Wistar rats were categorized into six groups: control, sham, AD, quercetin 10, quercetin 25, and quercetin 100 mg/kg body weight through gavage for 8 weeks. The rat model of AD was induced by intra-cerebroventricular administration of streptozotocin (STZ; 4 mg/rat, bilaterally). Depressive-like behaviors were assessed using the forced swimming test (FST), elevated plus maze (EPM), and open field test (OFT). Additionally, serum Gal-3 and TNF-α concentrations were measured.
ResultsSTZ administration led to increased depression-related behaviors in OFT, EPM, and FST. Significant elevations in serum TNF-α, coupled with a decrease in Gal-3 concentrations in the hippocampus of AD rats, were observed. Remarkably, quercetin treatment reversed hippocampal cytokine concentrations in STZ-treated rats. Quercetin at the doses of 25 and 100 mg/kg significantly increased serum Gal-3 concentrations compared to other groups.
ConclusionThe antidepressant effects of quercetin may be linked to its capacity to reduce inflammation and increase Gal-3 levels.
Keywords: Alzheimer’S Disease, Depression, Galectin-3, Quercetin, Rat -
Pages 77-86Background and objectivesAllergic asthma is an inflammatory respiratory system disease. Capparis spinosa L. has been traditionally used to treat inflammatory diseases. Our goal was to examine the anti-inflammatory activity of C. spinosa extract on a mouse model of allergic asthma.MethodsCapparis spinosa fruits were extracted with methanol 80% by maceration method. Forty-two Balb/c mice were divided into six groups of seven. The healthy control group received normal saline and the other five groups were treated with ovalbumin to induce asthma. Subsequently, one group received dexamethasone, three groups were treated with C. spinosa extract (185, 370 and 740 mg/kg/day) for 7 days and the sixth group remained untreated as the positive control. The number of eosinophils and neutrophils and the levels of interleukins -4, -5, and -13 were measured in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) of all mice. Histopathological changes in the lung tissues of all animals were also analyzed.ResultsThe number of eosinophils and neutrophils and the levels of interleukins -4, -5, and -13 in BALFs significantly decreased in C. spinosa extract-treated mice compared with the positive control. Capparis spinosa extract inhibited goblet cell hyperplasia and mucus hypersecretion in lung tissues. Inflammation in the peribronchial and perivascular spaces was non-significantly ameliorated in extract-treated mice. The results of C. spinosa extract-treated mice were comparable with dexamethasone-administered animals.ConclusionsThis study is the first report of anti-inflammatory and antiasthmatic properties of C. spinosa extract by modulating eosinophilic trafficking and type 2 inflammatory responses.Keywords: Allergic Asthma, Capparis Spinosa, Inflammation, Interleukin, Ovalbumin
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Pages 87-105
Plants from the genus Sanguisorba have been the center of attention for many years in different societies due to their medicinal properties. Two main genera; great burnet (Sanguisorba officinalis L.) and small burnet (Sansguisorba minor Scop.), have been investigated in many studies to reveal their activities. The literature was comprehensively surveyed via Web of Science, Scopus, PubMed, and Google Scholar using appropriate keywords to collect data on the updated phytochemical analysis of the plant spp. and discuss their biological properties. Phytochemical study of Sanguisorba spp. mainly indicated the presence of phenolic compounds, flavonoids, and terpenoids. The plants have shown anticancer, antioxidative, antimicrobial, antiviral, anti-Alzheimer’s disease, and anti-inflammatory activity. The lack of toxicity and potent biological activity of Sansguisorba spp. made them valuable resources for the development of supplements in the treatment and prevention of various diseases.
Keywords: Burnets, Medicinal Plants, Pharmacognosy, Sanguisorba