Natural Product Communications

Objective This study assesses the anti-inflammatory and therapeutic effects of Qianghuo Shengshi Tang (QHSST) on rheumatoid arthritis (RA) through network pharmacology and experimental validation and explore the underlying mechanisms. Methods Complete composition analysis of QHSST using UPLC-Q-Orbitrap-MS. And collection potential targets using relevant databases. Protein–protein interaction (PPI) networks were constructed and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) and Gene Ontology (GO) enrichment analyses were conducted. Anti-inflammatory activity of QHSST was evaluated in RAW264.7 cells by assessing apoptosis, NO, interleukin (IL)-6, IL-10, and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α). In rats with wind-cold-dampness paralysis-RA, efficacy of QHSST was confirmed by evaluating foot volumes, arthritis scoring index (AI), blood routine, rheumatoid factor (RF), anti-cyclic citrullinated peptide (CCP) antibody, and hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) staining and inflammatory factors. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and immunohistochemistry were used to examine protein expression in the ankle joints to elucidate the mechanism of QHSST action. Results We identified 44 compounds using UPLC-Q-Orbitrap-MS. Additionally, network pharmacology revealed five active ingredients and seven key targets. GO and KEGG analyses highlighted the involvement of PI3K-Akt signaling and tyrosine kinase inhibitor resistance pathways. Cell studies showed that QHSST reduced apoptosis, NO, IL-6, and TNF-α levels, while increasing IL-10 level in the dexamethasone and 3.125 µg/mL groups, indicating its anti-inflammatory effects. Animal experiments revealed that QHSST and methotrexate significantly decreased AI scores, foot volumes, and blood routine. H&E staining revealed varying degrees of joint harm, accompanied by a decrease in RF, anti-CCP antibody, IL-6, and TNF-α levels, and an increase in IL-10 level, underscoring the efficacy of QHSST in treating RA. ELISA and immunohistochemistry suggest that QHSST may exerts its effects by modulating the EGFR/SRC/PI3 K/AKT/NF-κB pathway. Conclusion Our findings provide a scientific foundation for therapeutic benefits of QHSST in alleviating RA by confirming the anti-inflammatory and RA-relieving properties of the supplement.

Objective This study aims to explore the potential molecular mechanisms of puerarin in alleviating non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) by combining network pharmacology and experimental analysis methods. Methods The study identified the active chemical components of puerarin and its potential targets by integrating databases, followed by constructing a target gene database for NAFLD. Through the analysis of the protein-protein interaction (PPI) network and identification of core genes, the focus was on the inhibitory effects of puerarin on inflammatory mediators such as TNF, IL6, IL1B, and STAT3. Laboratory experiments using the HepG2 cell line further validated the hepatoprotective effects of puerarin, demonstrated by reduced levels of ALT and AST, as well as the regulation of stress responses. Quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) experiments supported these findings, confirming the impact of puerarin on the expression of key inflammatory genes. Results The active components of puerarin and corresponding targets were identified through ETCM2.0 and HERB databases, resulting in the identification of 189 target genes. A total of 2317 target genes related to NAFLD were integrated from GeneCards, DisGeNET, and OMIM databases. Using Venn diagram tools, 188 intersecting target genes between puerarin and NAFLD were determined, and a PPI network was constructed. Gene Ontology (GO) functional analysis and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway enrichment analysis showed that NAFLD is closely related to biological processes such as insulin resistance, inflammatory response, lipid metabolism disorders, and apoptosis. Experimental validation results showed that puerarin treatment significantly reduced ALT and AST levels in the cell culture supernatant (by 47% and 29%, respectively), decreased MDA levels by 71%, and increased SOD levels by 23%. qPCR experiments indicated that the relative expression levels of IL6, TNF, IL1B, and STAT3 genes in the PA + puerarin treatment group were significantly lower than those in the PA-only treatment group, reduced by 2.0-fold, 2.1-fold, 2.9-fold, and 2.5-fold, respectively. Conclusion This study suggests that puerarin may alleviate the progression of NAFLD by targeting inflammatory pathways and regulating oxidative stress. The combined results of network pharmacology analysis and experimental validation indicate that puerarin modulates the inflammatory response by inhibiting the expression of genes such as IL6, TNF, IL1B, and STAT3, thereby reducing the production and release of inflammatory factors, alleviating liver inflammation, reducing liver fat accumulation, and slowing the progression of NAFLD. Our research provides fundamental data for puerarin as a potential drug for the treatment of NAFLD. With further research and development, puerarin can be designed as an oral medication or other forms of administration or combined with other NAFLD treatments to improve liver health in patients.

Background and Aim Shipixiaoji granules (SPXJ) is traditional Chinese medicine that treats hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). However, its efficacy in HCC is still unknown. This prospective study assessed the outcomes of using SPXJ combined with tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) and immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) in the management of patients with unresectable HCC. Methods This study was conducted as a single-arm phase II clinical trial. We recruited patients diagnosed with CNLC stage Ⅱ to Ⅲ HCC. The treatment regimen included oral lenvatinib (12 mg for patients weighing ≥60 kg; 8 mg for those weighing <60 kg) once daily, intravenous tislelizumab (200 mg) every 3 weeks, and SPXJ twice daily. The primary endpoint was defined as progression-free survival (PFS) in accordance with RECIST 1.1 criteria. Results Fifty-four patients were enrolled in this study. The primary endpoint was achieved, with a median PFS of 12.7 months. The objective response rate (ORR) was recorded at 55.6%. The disease control rate (DCR) was observed at 98.1%. Additionally, we compared PFS based on the participants’ sleep behavior. The results indicated that patients with a morning chronotype had a median PFS of 14.1 months, while those with a night chronotype had a median PFS of 9.85 months (95% CI: 1.366-6.853, P < .05). Treatment-related adverse events were reported in 96.3% (n = 52) of patients. Conclusions The combination of SPXJ, lenvatinib, and tislelizumab demonstrated substantial safety and anti-tumor efficacy as first-line treatment for unresectable HCC. Moreover, patients’ sleep behavior significantly influences treatment efficacy.

Background: Asthma has become an increasingly serious and prevalent public health issue. Chinese herbal medicine holds promising potential as an adjunctive therapy for asthma. This study employed ultra-performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (UPLC-MS/MS), network pharmacology, and molecular docking techniques to investigate the therapeutic mechanism of Sangmei Zhike granule (SZG) in the management of allergic asthma. Methods: Initially, UPLC-MS/MS was utilized to identify the primary compounds absorbed into the bloodstream following SZG administration. Subsequently, network pharmacology was applied to predict the targets and key pathways of SZG in treating allergic asthma. Furthermore, molecular docking technology was employed to validate certain predictions derived from network pharmacology. Results: A total of 70 compounds were identified using UPLC-MS/MS. Network pharmacology analysis revealed that active compounds such as schisandrin A, magnoflorine, phaeocaulisin E, and arglabin may play a role in the therapeutic effect of SZG on allergic asthma. These compounds exert their effects by targeting multiple signaling pathways, including JAK-STAT, HIF-1, and PI3K/AKT.Molecular docking analysis of core components and target proteins suggested good binding affinities between the core components and most target proteins, except JAK2, CXCL-8, and TNF. Conclusion: Results from UPLC-MS/MS and network pharmacology indicate that the active compounds present in SZG exert their therapeutic effects on asthma through multiple targets and signaling pathways. These compounds are implicated in the management of type 2-high asthma, type 2-low asthma, and mixed asthma, suggesting a potential efficacy of SZG in non-allergic asthma as well. These findings may provide valuable insights for future investigations on the therapeutic potential of SZG in asthma treatment.

The present study is aimed to explore the therapeutic attributes of diosgenin against atherosclerosis and associated health disorder. Side effects associated with synthetic drugs for the treatment and management of diseases worldwide have necessitated scientists to investigate and evaluate the therapeutic potential of phytochemicals and their pharmacological activities. Plants including Smilax China, Dioscorea alata, and the Trigonella foenum graecum are rich sources of diosgenin. In addition to being a crucial component in the creation of several steroidal medications, this bioactive phytochemical has shown great promise in the treatment of a wide range of diseases, including cancer, hypercholesterolemia, inflammation, and multiple infections. Diosgenin can reduce hyperlipidemia by lowering the amount of low-density lipoproteins, interfering with the absorption of cholesterol and increasing its excretion. Diosgenin inhibits the expression of NPCIL1 receptor, LXR-alpha, HMG CoA and SRB1, increases expression of ABC G5/G8 transporters to prevent dietary cholesterol accumulation in the body. Diosgenin exhibits antithrombotic activity by inhibiting platelet activation, and modulating anti coagulation by significantly decreasing factor Viii activity. Diosgenin inhibits the oxidation of LDLs, hence preventing atherosclerosis. It also possesses antithrombotic activity by inhibiting pancreatic lipase activity. Diosgenin provides anti-inflammatory benefits to the human body. It inhibits inflammatory markers including Interlukin-1 beta (IL-1β), Tumor necrosis factor – alpha (TNF-α), Nitric Oxide and cytokines. Moreover, it promotes the synthesis of antioxidant enzymes such as glutathione peroxidase and superoxide dismutase. By modifying the IKKβ pathway, it reduces endothelial damage linked to insulin resistance. This review discusses the recent advancements to explore diosgenin potential in reducing atherosclerotic cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, cancer, inflammation, clinical application, pharmacokinetics underlying mechanism with existing scientific evidences.

Introduction: Hormophysa triquetra and Padina gymnospora are widely distributed seaweeds in subtropical and tropical seas; however, there are limited or no reports on their biomedical applications. The aim of this study was to investigate the chemical composition of these species and present their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Methods: The total phenolic content in an 80% methanol extract of the species was measured. High-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) were used to assess the components of the extracts. Antioxidant activity against AAPH- or H2O2-induced oxidative stress in Vero cells was measured using the MTT assay. For anti-inflammatory assessment, the Griess assay was used to measure nitric oxide (NO) production in LPS-stimulated RAW264.7 cells, and enzyme linked immunosorbent assay was employed to measure the inhibition of cytokine production in LPS-stimulated bone marrow-derived dendritic cells. Results: Both seaweed species exhibited significant phenolic content. HPLC profiles revealed 19 compounds, with cinnamic acid (29.63 µg/g) and pyrogallol (25.33 µg/g) dominating in Hormophysa triquetra and Padina gymnospora, respectively. GC-MS profiles were dominant for fatty acids and their derivatives, along with diterpenes. The extracts exhibited protective effects against oxidative stress. Furthermore, the extracts inhibited the production of NO and cytokines in a dose-dependent manner. Conclusion: These findings highlight the therapeutic potential of the species against oxidative stress and inflammation, suggesting their applicability in the pharmaceutical and nutraceutical industries.

Anthocyanins are bioflavonoids soluble in water. Delphinidin, an active monomer within anthocyanidins, possesses anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anti-tumor properties, among others. In recent years, substantial advancements have been achieved in delphinidin research. However, to date, no scholarly work has employed bibliometric analyses on delphinidin studies. This study aims to assess the progress of delphinidin research through bibliometric methods. The Web of Science (WoS) database was utilized to retrieve delphinidin-related literature from 1993 to 2023. Bibliometric analysis was conducted using VOSviewer, CiteSpace, and R Studio. A total of 1586 articles were selected. China leads in the number of publications; the University of Porto is the most prolific institution; Food Chemistry is the journal with the greatest number of published articles; the most cited local literature is by TANAKA Y. The three most frequently occurring keywords are “anthocyanins” “identification” and “expression”. This study conducts a thorough bibliometric analysis of literature pertaining to delphinidin, serving as a foundational reference for future research into delphinidin.

N-acetylglucosamine (GlcNAc) is a versatile monosaccharide with broad applications in medicine, food, and cosmetics due to its antimicrobial, antioxidant, and anti-tumor properties. Efficient synthesis methods for GlcNAc remain a prominent research focus. O-GlcNAc modification, prevalent in nuclear and cytoplasmic proteins, is of particular interest, especially regarding the catalytic mechanism of the O-GlcNAcase (OGA) enzyme. Enzymatic processes using chitin as a substrate, yield GlcNAc-based oligosaccharides, offering diverse health benefits including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-tumor, and antimicrobial effects. This review examines GlcNAc preparation methods, O-GlcNAc modification mechanisms, and the applications of GlcNAc-based oligosaccharides in various fields.

Carapa procera DC (C. procera), Trichilia monadelpha (Thonn.) J.J.de Wilde (T. monadelpha), Spathodea campanulata P.Beauv (S. campanulata) and Gymnosporia senegalensis Loes (G. senegalensis) are medicinal plants which are used folklorically in Ghana, West Africa, for the treatment and management of diseases. However, there is little scientific evidence and documentation regarding their ethnobotanical uses, phytochemical constituents and pharmacology activities. The objective of this study was to provide a comprehensive literature synthesis of the ethnobotanical uses, phytochemical composition and pharmacological significance of C. procera, G. senegalensis, T. monadelpha and S. campanulata for future research and health benefits. Databases utilized in the literature search included PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, Google Scholar, PubChem and DrugBank. All plant names were checked with “World Flora Online” (www.worldfloraonline.org). Pharmacological studies conducted in majority of cases indicated anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant or antimicrobial activities of C. procera, T. monadelpha, S. campanulata and G. senegalensis. Phytochemical analysis also revealed botanical constituents that may potentially be involved in the observed pharmacological properties. This review will go a long way to promote the efficacious use of these plants. However, much remains to be done with respect to preclinical and clinical investigations in order to harness their full potential.

Catha edulis, commonly known as “Khat,” is a large shrub that is native to the Arabian Peninsula (particularly Yemen) and some African countries, including Ethiopia, Kenya, and Somalia, and the plant is used traditionally for its psychostimulant, euphoric, and analgesic properties. C. edulis contains several pharmacologically active compounds, but cathinone is responsible for the vast majority of its pharmacological properties. Traditionally, Khat is known for the treatment of type 2 diabetes in Africa, particularly in Uganda. Numerous studies that explored this area yielded inconclusive findings. Some studies showed that chewing Khat lowers blood glucose levels (BGL) in non-diabetic patients, while others showed that ingesting Khat delays gastric emptying time, and this supported and explained the earlier claim of its benefit in Type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM). However, a recent meta-analysis gave a contradictory submission that Khat is associated with an insignificant reduction in BGLs in non-diabetic humans and animals with a significant increase in BGLs in patients with diabetes. Most importantly, reports suggested that Khat exacerbates common complications of diabetes, such as depression, sexual dysfunction, dyslipidemia, proteinuria, and hypertension. The current findings concluded that Khat does not have a beneficial effect on Type 2 DM. Chewing Khat is believed to be a risk factor for Type 2 DM for raising glucose levels and a possible determinant of its poor outcomes and prognosis.

Dendrobium nobile (D. nobile), an orchid species deeply rooted in traditional medicine, has garnered considerable attention for its potential pharmacological and therapeutic properties. This critical review provides a comprehensive analysis of the bioactive compounds present in D. nobile and explores their diverse pharmacological effects. The phytochemistry of D. nobile has been discussed, highlighting its major constituents and bioactive compounds with specific properties. The pharmacological profile of D. nobile has been investigated in various domains. Notably, its strong antioxidant activity and ability to scavenge free radicals have been shown to support its immune-modulating, anti-inflammatory, and neuroprotective effects. Intriguingly, these orchids display promising anticancer, antidiabetic, cardiovascular, renoprotective, hepatoprotective, and wound-healing properties. The mechanisms underlying these effects were explored, including molecular pathways and signalling cascades. However, factors influencing its chemical composition, such as environmental conditions, cultivation techniques, and postharvest processing, must be considered for consistent therapeutic outcomes. The safety and toxicity profiles derived from acute and chronic toxicity studies were examined. In future studies, exploring the untapped therapeutic potential and elucidating the intricate mechanisms of action are promising. This review underscores the pharmacological richness of D. nobile, revealing its potential to contribute to modern medicine while emphasising the need for further investigation to harness its full therapeutic benefits.

Background: The surge in the popularity of cannabis has led to an increase in the number of companies producing hemp-derived consumable cannabinoid products. Despite extensive exploration of cannabinoid efficacy, safety remains underreported. Any contaminants that are not deemed analytes of interest are ignored, leaving their identities and safety profiles a mystery. The unregulated nature of the cannabinoid market places the onus on reputable companies to set industry standards for product cleanliness. Objective: This study aimed to address this gap by assessing high and low potency forms of three popular hemp-derived cannabinoids – Delta 8-tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ8-THC), Hexahydrocannabinol (HHC), and Delta 9-tetrahydrocannabiphorol (Δ9-THCP). Methods: After identifying contaminants, the products were evaluated for toxicity in vitro using one liver and two lung cell lines in an effort to simulate the effects of oral consumption and inhalation. Results: Our study revealed that none of the compounds exhibited toxicity in the liver cell line, while all of the compounds exhibited toxicity in both of the lung cell lines – with the exception of one high-potency HHC sample. Conclusion: These findings highlight the critical need for stringent quality control in the cannabinoid industry, emphasizing the importance for both companies and consumers to prioritize clean, well-tested products to ensure safety in an increasingly unregulated market.

Objectives This study aimed to investigate the essential oil extracted from the aerial parts of Teucrium viscidum Blume, a perennial herb belonging to the Lamiaceae family, collected in Vietnam. The focus was on determining the essential oil's chemical composition and evaluating its antimicrobial and mosquito larvicidal activities. Methods The essential oil of T. viscidum was analyzed using GC–FID/MS to identify its chemical constituents. The antimicrobial activity was assessed against seven microorganisms using the broth microdilution method to determine minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and half-maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) values. The larvicidal activity was evaluated against Culex quinquefasciatus larvae, with lethal concentration (LC50 and LC90) values calculated after 24 and 48 h of exposure. Results Chemical analysis revealed that the essential oil of T. viscidum was predominantly composed of sesquiterpene hydrocarbons, with (E)-caryophyllene (47.91%) and germacrene D (19.17%) as the major constituents. The essential oil exhibited significant antimicrobial activity against three Gram-positive bacteria (Enterococcus faecalis, Staphylococcus aureus, and Bacillus cereus), one Gram-negative bacterium (Pseudomonas aeruginosa), and one yeast (Candida albicans), with MIC values ranging from 32 to 64 μg/mL and IC50 values ranging from 9.56 to 24.07 μg/mL. The mosquito larvicidal activity of the essential oil showed strong efficacy against C. quinquefasciatus larvae, with LC50 values of 23.07 μg/mL after 24 h and 19.67 μg/mL after 48 h, and LC90 values of 32.90 μg/mL at 24 h and 29.99 μg/mL at 48 h, indicating increased effectiveness with prolonged exposure. Conclusion This study provides a comprehensive analysis of the chemical composition and biological activities of T. viscidum essential oil. The findings highlight its potent antimicrobial and mosquito larvicidal properties, suggesting it as a promising natural alternative to synthetic antimicrobial agents and insecticides. Further research is warranted to explore its mechanisms of action and potential applications in pharmaceuticals and pest control.

Background This study used a holistic network pharmacological approach to clarify the mechanism of Compound Zeqi Granule (CZG) in treating psoriasis vulgaris (PV). Methods The potential bioactive compounds and corresponding targets of CZG were collected and searched via the TCMSP database. Disease targets of PV were obtained from the GeneCards database. The targets of CZG and PV were standardized by the UniProt database. GO and KEGG enrichment analyses were performed using the Metascape database. Then, molecular docking verification was conducted using the CB-Dock database. Animal experiments were conducted to validate the effects of CZG on PV. Results This approach identified 99 bioactive compounds, 579 potential drug targets, 822 PV-related targets, and 108 potential target proteins. The biological processes were primarily related to regulation of defense response, regulation of inflammatory responses, and cellular response to lipid. The targets of CZG for treating PV were significantly associated with 20 pathways including JAK-STAT signaling pathway. Animal experiments confirmed that CZG exerted its therapeutic effects on PV by promoting the expression of IL-10 and JUN, and inhibiting the activation of STAT1 and STAT3. Conclusion The present study provides evidence supporting the efficacy of CZG for the treatment of PV through a multi-compound, multi-target and multi-pathway approach and lays a theoretical foundation for further experimental research in this field.

Objective Yougui pills (YGP) have been used clinically to treat diminished ovarian reserve (DOR), but, whether YGP could have a palliative effect in the DOR rat model and the underlying mechanisms have not been clearly elucidated. This study aims to investigate the therapeutic effect and potential mechanisms of YGP in rats with cortisol-induced DOR. Methods The cortisol-induced DOR model was used to investigate the protective effects and mechanism of YGP on DOR. The DOR model was established by intramuscular injection of 25 mg/kg cortisol for 28 consecutive days. Meanwhile, the rats were weighed and administered intragastrically YGP or progynova. To evaluate the mitigating effect of YGP on DOR, pharmacodynamic indicators were assessed including body weight, estrous cycle, H&E staining, and serum levels of AMH, FSH, LH, and cortisol. Oxidative stress (OS) and apoptosis pathways were further validated using Western blotting analysis. Result YGP significantly ameliorated the symptoms of DOR. Administration of YGP improved the ovarian index, estrous cycle, and body weight. After treatment with YGP, cortisol, FSH, and LH levels declined and AMH levels elevated. YGP increased the number of primary, secondary, and antral follicles, but decreased the number of atretic follicles. Mechanically, YGPtreated cortisol-induced DOR via the Keap1/Nrf2 signaling pathway which regulates OS. YGP also reversed the aberrant expression of apoptosis-related proteins Caspase-3, Bcl-2, and Bax. Conclusion YGP could reduce ovarian OS and apoptosis in cortisol-induced rats via regulating the Keap1/Nrf2 signaling pathway, thereby enhancing ovarian reserve function.

Background and Objectives Brown seaweed, Sargassum muticum, can grow up to a maximum length of 10 m. This study aimed to create novel bimetallic nanoparticles (NPs) by utilizing the entire plant extract. The bimetallic green-Ag-CuNPs was synthesized by using these substances extract of Sargassum muticum algae, copper oxide (CuO), silver (AgCl) by a reduction procedure and studied its toxic action against human colon cancer (HCT-116) cells. Methods SEM and TEM were used to measure the NPs’ size prior to the treatment of g-Ag-Cu NPs. The g-Ag-Cu nanoparticles had a circular shape and measured 46 ± 1 nm in size. MTT and NRU tests were used to assess the cytotoxicity of g-Ag-Cu NPs on HCT-116 cells. Results The results showed that the cytotoxicity of NPs increased in a concentration-dependent manner. The median inhibitory concentration (IC50) for HCT-116 cells at 24 h was determined to be 66.4 μg/ml based on the MTT result. At 50 µg/ml of g-Ag-Cu NPs, HCT-116 cells generated large amounts of intracellular ROS, induced caspase 3/7. Using Rhodamine123 labeling, the impact of NPs on mitochondrial membrane potential in HCT-116 cells was evaluated and it was highly compromised at 50 µg/ml of g-Ag-Cu NPs. Expression of apoptotic protein was assessed by using protein array methods and it was down and up regulated as per concentration of exposure of g-Ag-Cu NPs. Conclusion Our findings support the g-Ag-Cu NPs’ lethal effects on human colon cancer cells. We believe that because this nanoparticle increases cytotoxicity and triggers apoptosis, it may be useful as a supplement in the treatment of colon cancer.

Introduction Plants have long been used for medicinal purposes, but synthetic drugs emerged with scientific advancements. However, these synthetic drugs often have harmful side effects. Natural products, particularly plants, offer safer alternatives with bioactive compounds that can be used for synthesizing new drugs and developing natural remedies. Methods Utilizing an ultrasonic-assisted extraction technique, two distinct preparations of Eminium spiculatum (E. spiculatum) extract were produced. These extracts were obtained using ethanol solutions at concentrations of 100% and 50%, respectively. The biological activities of E. spiculatum extracts were evaluated using chemical assay methods. Specifically, the study assessed the antimicrobial, anticancer, and antioxidant properties of these extracts through standardized chemical techniques. The antimicrobial impact was examined against E.coli, Streptococcus species, as well as Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) using the well diffusion method. Furthermore, anticancer tests demonstrated activity against HT29 (colon cancer cells) and MCF7 (breast cancer cells). Results The findings revealed complete cell death with both 100% as well as 50% ethanol extracts compared to the control. The extracts exhibited notable antioxidant scavenging capacity against the stable radical DPPH, with values of 298.7 ± 3.3 and 190.8 ± 2.2 µmol Trolox/g for 50% and 100% ethanolic extracts, respectively. These outcomes can be attributed to the extracts’ abundant phenolic content (107.3 ± 3.1 and 99.7 ± 2.0 mg GAE/g for 50% and 100% ethanolic extracts, respectively) and flavonoid content (67.9 ± 2.9 and 45.6 ± 2.8 mg catechin/g for 50% and 100% ethanolic extracts, respectively). Conclusion The assessment of E. spiculatum plant extracts revealed significant antimicrobial, anticancer, and antioxidant activities. The extracts demonstrated promising potential for drug development, particularly in the areas of cancer treatment and the production of novel antibacterial drugs. Further exploration of extraction methods to isolate the bioactive compounds could enable E. spiculatum to contribute to the synthesis of safe and effective drugs in the future.

Background: Lavandula maroccana Murb. is renowned for its valuable essential oil (EO), with a complex chemical composition and potent antimicrobial properties, which can be subjected to environmental influences. The objective of the present study was to assess how seasonal variations affect the yield, chemical composition and antimicrobial activity of Lavandula maroccana Murb. EO. Methods: The plant materials were collected throughout the four seasons and subjected to EO extraction using hydro-distillation method. The chemical composition was analyzed using gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC/MS), while the antimicrobial properties were evaluated using disc diffusion and microdilution assays against four yeasts (Candida albicans, C. glabrata, C. krusei, and C. parapsilosis), and six pathogenic bacteria (Staphylococcus aureus, Micrococcus luteus, Bacillus subtilis, Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Klebsiella pneumoniae). Results: The highest EO yield was recorded from the samples collected in autumn (0.19%), while the spring harvest yielded the lowest EO production (0.06%). The GC/MS analysis identified 41 different compounds, with notable variations in the major compound, carvacrol, which ranged from 29.33% to 60.60%. The summer collections contained the highest concentration of carvacrol. Antimicrobial testing, revealed that EOs obtained from all seasons displayed substantial activity against both bacteria and yeast strains. Notably, the summer-harvested EO showed the most potent antimicrobial effects, with inhibition zone and MIC values ranging from 15.32 ± 0.45 mm to 24.09 ± 0.65 mm and 0.16 mg/mL to 2.50 mg/mL, respectively. Conversely, the spring-harvested EO showed the least antimicrobial activity. Conclusion: These findings emphasize the importance of harvesting L. maroccana during the summer and/or autumn to maximize the EO yield and carvacrol content, thereby enhancing its antimicrobial effectiveness.

Background: The paucity of information on the effect of Tom Brown's weaning meal on liver and learning and memory functions necessitated this study. Methods: Fifteen rats were acclimatized for a week and used for this study. They were divided into control, combined, and Tom Brown experimental groups. Rat Chow, Rat Chow/Tombrown, and Tom Brown Feed alone were given to the experimental animals accordingly. At the end of the four-week feeding period, liver enzymes (AST, ALT, and ALP) and learning and memory parameters were assessed. GC-MS and ADMET properties were done for Tom Brown and its ligands. Eleven Ligands with zero violations using the Lipinski rule of five (ROF) were docked with netrin, AST, and ALT. Results: ALT, AST, and ALP results of the control, combined, and Tom Brown experimental groups presented as mean ± SEM were 67.89 ± 3.15 Iu/L, 71.68 ± 1.30 Iu/l, and 73.65 ± 0.89 Iu/l; 129.81 ± 1.77 Iu/L, 129.51 ± 1.84 Iu/L, and 130.94 ± 1.31 Iu/L; 22.10 ± 1.24 Iu/L, 23.28 ± 0.61 Iu/L, and 22.48 ± 1.29 Iu/L, respectively. There was no significant difference among experimental groups in liver enzymes or other parameters assessed in this study (P > 0.05). 5-hydroxymethyl furfural and carpaine were ligands with a better docking score. Conclusions: The non-significant values of liver and long-term memory parameters is evident of the meal having no effect on these parameters. 5-hydroxymethyl furfural and carpaine are possible compounds that could enhance liver and leraning/memory functions from docking results. However, they had low peak areas from GCMS result and this effect was not seen.

Background: The usages of biosynthesized nanomaterials for microbial pathogens’ fighting have numerous rationales and effectiveness. Skin microbes could acquire drug-resistance that needs innovative approaches for overcoming. Objectives: Phytosynthesized silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) with Commiphora myrrh resin extract (MR) and their nanoconjugates with chitosan nanoparticles (Cht) were fabricated and assessed as potential antimicrobial agents for controlling antibiotic-resistant microbial skin pathogens, Materials and methods: AgNPs biosynthesis was achieved within MR solution and they were composited with Cht. The syntheses of nanomaterials were validated using infrared spectroscopy and electron microscopy and they were loaded onto cotton textiles, then all fabricated nanomaterials/textiles were assessed for inhibiting skin pathogens Staphylococcus aureus and Candida albicans. Results: Nanomaterials’ characterization appointed the mean size of MR-synthesized AgNPs to be 22.58 nm, whereas the mean diameter of Cht/MR/AgNPs nanocomposites was 130.34 nm and carry +25.9 mV charges. The infrared assessment validated the interactions between the employed materials. The loaded cotton textiles with MR/AgNPs and Cht/MR/AgNPs could effectively inhibit the growth of Staphylococcus aureus and Candida albicans, Cht/MR/AgNPs was the most powerful. The scanning microscopy confirmed the antimicrobial action of Cht/MR/AgNPs toward the skin pathogens; the microbes mostly lysed and deformed within 12 h of exposure to nanocomposites. Conclusions: The Cht/MR/AgNPs nanocomposite provided potent antimicrobial actions toward skin microbial pathogens.

Purpose To explore the efficacy and mechanisms of Jiyin Fang (JYF) against postmenopausal coronary heart disease (CHD) complicated with osteoporosis (OP). Methods Firstly, collected ingredients and relative targets of JYF from TCMSP and BATMAN-TCM database, disease targets of CHD and OP from GeneCards, TTD and OMIM database. By use of protein to protein (PPI) network, Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway enrichment analysis, obtained core targets and mechanism pathways. Finally, preliminarily explore the pharmacological effect and major targets partly to explain the mechanism, through experiment of ovariectomized CHD with OP model rats treated with JYF. Results Total of 112 ingredients and 253 related targets of JYF, 173 disease targets common to CHD and OP were screened out. PPI network indicated 9 core targets. GO and KEGG enrichment analysis showed 20 major signal pathway. Rats experiment displayed that JYF could ameliorate the structural injury of aortic arch and femur; reduce the abnormal changes of ST segment and T wave of ECG; decrease the content of BGP, OPG, ALP, CTX, IL-6 and TNFα, increase the levels of PINP in serum; inhibit P53, MAPK, NF-κB and IKK protein expression, promote PPARG protein expression of aortic arch; inhibit NRF2, AKT protein expression and up-regulate p-STAT1, MMP9 protein expression in femur. Conclusion JYF can achieve the purpose of anti postmenopausal CHD complicated with OP. The potential mechanism may relate to P53/MAPK/NF-κB in aortic arch, and AKT/NRF2/p-STAT1 in bone, due to IL-6 and TNFα.

Objective: This study aims to investigate the chemical constituents and biological properties of the essential oil derived from Psychotria laui, a plant recognized for its medicinal applications, particularly in traditional Vietnamese medicine, where it is utilized for the treatment of digestive and inflammatory disorders. Methods: Fresh leaves of Psychotria laui were gathered in Quangtri, Vietnam, and subjected to hydro-distillation using a Clevenger-type apparatus to obtain the essential oil. The chemical composition of the essential oil was analyzed by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). The antioxidant potential was measured using the DPPH (2,2-Diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl) assay, while the inhibition of nitric oxide production was tested in lipopolysaccharide-stimulated RAW264.7 cells. Cytotoxicity against the SK-LU-1 cell line (human lung adenocarcinoma) was evaluated using the sulforhodamine B (SRB) assay. Results: The essential oil from Psychotria laui contained 78 distinct constituents. The major compounds identified were spathulenol (10.4%), thujopsan-2-α-ol (9.5%), 7-epi-α-eudesmol (6.5%), 14-hydroxy-9-epi-(E)-caryophyllene (4.4%), epi-α-cadinol (3.9%), α-muurolol (3.8%), 1-epi-cubenol (3.5%), and δ-cadinene (3.2%). The essential oil showed no antioxidant activity, with an IC50 (half-maximal inhibitory concentration) value greater than 500 µg/mL, in contrast to the positive control, L-ascorbic acid, which had an IC50 of 7.78 ± 0.39 µg/mL in the DPPH assay. However, its anti-inflammatory activity was evident by its ability to inhibit nitric oxide production, with an IC50 of 19.48 ± 1.53 µg/mL in lipopolysaccharide-stimulated RAW264.7 macrophages. Moreover, the essential oil exhibited potent cytotoxicity against the SK-LU-1 cancer cell line, with an IC50 of 8.49 ± 0.73 µg/mL in the SRB assay. Conclusion: The essential oil from Psychotria laui leaves contains numerous bioactive compounds and exhibits significant anti-inflammatory and cytotoxic properties, although it lacks antioxidant activity.

Objective: Cultured mycobiont of the Vietnamese crustose-lichen Diorygma sp. has been chemically investigated. Biological activities including cytotoxicity against HepG2 cell line, α-glucosidase inhibition, and nitric oxide inhibitory activity were evaluated. Methods: Extensive spectroscopic methods (NMR and ECD) and HRESI mass data were employed for structural elucidation. These isolates were evaluated for their cytotoxicity against HepG2 cell line, α-glucosidase inhibition, and inhibitory activity toward nitric oxide production in LPS-stimulated RAW 264.7 cells. Results: Four compounds (1–4), including a new guaiane-sesquiterpene, hydroxydiorygmone A (1), along with three known analogues, diorygmones A and B (2 and 3) and pruinosone (4), were isolated and characterized. Compound 1 showed moderate α-glucosidase inhibition with an IC50 value of 160 ± 2.2 µM and significant inhibitory activity toward nitric oxide production in LPS-stimulated RAW 264.7 cells with an IC50 value of 8.11 ± 0.21 µM. Others were inactive in α-glucosidase inhibitory and nitric oxide inhibitory tests. Conclusion: A new guaiane-sesquiterpene, hydroxydiorygmone A (1) was isolated and showed moderate α-glucosidase inhibition with an IC50 value of 160 ± 2.2 µM and significant inhibitory activity toward nitric oxide production in LPS-stimulated RAW 264.7 cells with an IC50 value of 8.11 ± 0.21 µM.

Background Postmenopausal osteoporosis (PMOP) is characterized by low bone mass and increased bone fragility in postmenopausal women. Shen Gu An capsule (SGA) has been clinically used to treat bone diseases, especially PMOP with kidney Yang deficiency. Objectives We aimed to study the effect of SGA on the treatment of PMOP. Methodology The key candidate targets and pathways of SGA for treating PMOP were predicted by Network pharmacology analysis. Then, in vivo validation using bilaterally ovariectomized C57BL/6 mice was performed, and the bone quality was analyzed by Micro-CT and histological analysis. Results In this study, we obtained 113 active compounds and 82 targets via the database of Traditional Chinese Medicine Systems Pharmacology. Subsequently, compound-target and protein−protein interaction networks were constructed. Then GO and KEGG analysis revealed that NF-κB signaling pathway might be the underlying mechanism as its well-known function in osteoclastogenesis. Furthermore, the in vivo experiments using ovariectomized mice demonstrated that SGA could decrease the number of osteoclasts and preserve bone mass through inhibiting the NF-κB signaling pathway. Conclusions SGA could prevent postmenopausal osteoporosis in ovariectomized mice through inhibiting NF-κB signaling pathway. The finding of this study provides more evidence for the clinical application of SGA to treat osteoporosis.

Background: Osteoporosis has emerged as a significant global public health concern, predominantly affecting postmenopausal women. Its pathogenesis is intricate and the disease course is protracted, imposing substantial medical burden on both society and individuals. Objective: To investigate the effects of 2,3,5,4′-tetrahydroxystilbene-2-O-β-d-glucoside (TSG) and acetylated-TSG (Ac-TSG) on osteoblast viability, in vivo pharmacokinetics in rats and anti-osteoporotic effects in ovariectomized rat model. Methods: Ac-TSG was obtained by acetylation of TSG, and the purity and structure of Ac-TSG were determined by HPLC and ¹H NMR. The effects of TSG and Ac-TSG on MC3T3-E1 cell viability, pharmacokinetics in rats, blood biochemical indexes of OVX model rats were detected. Hematoxylin–eosin (HE) staining was used to observe bone tissue morphology, tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase (TRAP) staining was used to observe osteoclast morphology, micro-CT was used to perform three-dimensional reconstruction of femur, and femur parameters were analyzed. Results: The structure of the compound is Ac-TSG and the purity is more than 98%. Both TSG and Ac-TSG could reduce the damage of oxidative stress to MC3T3-E1 cells and effectively improve the levels of Ca, P, ALP and BGP in serum of OVX rats. Compared with TSG, Ac-TSG has a longer action time in vivo and can improve the femoral structure, the number of trabecular bone and the number of osteoclasts in rats. Conclusion: Ac-TSG conferred protection to MC3T3-E1 cells against oxidative stress-induced damage and enhanced their bioavailability. Simultaneously, Ac-TSG ameliorated abnormal bone metabolism and mitigated bone microstructural changes in OVX rats, exhibiting a protective effect against osteoporosis.