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Ficus carica aqueous extract alleviates delayed gastric emptying and recovers ulcerative colitis-enhanced acute functional gastrointestinal disorders in rats
Abstract
Ethnopharmacological relevance:
Ficus carica fruit, a source of bioactive functional ingredients, have been traditionally long time used for its medicinal benefits as they improve the digestive system, treating constipation and used as a natural laxative.
Aim of the study:
The recent study was investigated the ameliorative effect of Ficus carica L. aqueous extract (FCAE) on delayed gastric emptying and ulcerative colitis-improved motility disturbances in dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-induced acute colitis in rats.
Materials and methods:
Wistar rats were assigned randomly and received 5% DSS for seven days. Ulcerative colitis diagnosis was confirmed by clinical signs, visible fecal blood and histopatological evaluation. The estimation of the action of colitis on TGI and constipation as well as the protective effect of extract, the intestinal biochemical and physiological parameters were measured using the charcoal meal test, loperamide (Lop)-induced constipation as well as spectrophotometric assays. FCAE (150 and 300mgkg-1) was administered orally once per day for seven days 1h after the loperamide treatment. Phenol-red colorimetric method was used to explore the action of FCAE on gastric emptying process.
Results:
Ulcerative colitis caused a significantly gastrointestinal motility inhibition in normal rats and notably aggravated the constipation in LOP group. Oppositely, FCAE oral intake significantly increased levels of the gastrointestinal transit ratio and gastric emptying by accelerating of their times. Moreover, constipation severity induced by colitis was remarkably reduced in the FCAE treatment group, as demonstrated by a marked management of faecal parameters, water content, oxidative stress indicators, lipid metabolism, and intracellular mediators. Phytochemical analysis of FCAE revealed the presence of carbohydrates, polysaccharides, phenolic acids as gallic acid, chlorogenic acid, syringic acid and ellagic acid, and flavonoids (e.g. rutin, catechin, epicatechin and apeginine).
Conclusions:
The obtained results indicated that FCAE exhibits a natural laxative effect without provoking diarrhea and ameliorates functional gastrointestinal (GI) and motility disorders thus justifying its traditional usage.
... The content of total sugar and protein was determined by phenol-sulfuric acid colorimetric method and the Coomassie Brilliant Blue method, respectively, while the content of uronic acid was detected by the m-hydroxy diphenyl method [22][23][24]. Additionally, the Folin-Ciocalteau method was used to analyze the content of total phenolics [25]. ...
... In the vehicle group, there w mucosal epithelial glands, and the structures of the mucosal lay and the muscle layer were disordered, accompanied by the tissue structures (such as local bleeding and infiltration of inflam m-hydroxy diphenyl method [22][23][24]. Additionally, the Fol used to analyze the content of total phenolics [25]. ...
... In the vehicle group, mucosal epithelial glands, and the structures of the mu and the muscle layer were disordered, accompanied tissue structures (such as local bleeding and infiltration m-hydroxy diphenyl method [22][23][24]. Additionally used to analyze the content of total phenolics [25]. ...
Finger citron pickled products (FCPP), as folk remedies, are famous in southern China for protecting gastric mucosa. However, the gastric mucosa protection of FCPP has not been reported yet, and its effective mechanism is unclear. In this study, the protective mechanism of FCPP aqueous extract on gastric mucosa was investigated in vitro and in vivo for the first time, using human gastric mucosa epithelial cells (GES-1) and acute alcoholic gastric ulcer rat model respectively. Furthermore, we also investigated the main substances in the aqueous extract that exert gastroprotective activity using a GES-1 scratch test and basic chemical composition analysis. FCPP aqueous extract was found to play a protective and reparative role in GES-1 by promoting the secretion of trefoil factor thyroid transcription factor 2 (TFF2) and inhibiting the secretion of tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) in cells damaged by alcohol. The ulcer index of gastric tissue induced by alcohol was significantly decreased (p < 0.01) after pretreatment with FCPP aqueous extract, indicating that FCPP aqueous extract had a good protective effect on the stomach mucosa. Moreover, FCPP aqueous extract could increase superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity and inhibit malondialdehyde (MDA) content, exhibiting good antioxidant capacity. Aqueous extract of FCPP could also effectively inhibit the increase of cytokines TNF-α, interleukin-1β (IL-1β) and interleukin-6 (IL-6) in serum of rats, and promote the increase of anti-inflammatory cytokines interleukin-10 (IL-10) to some extent. Furthermore, FCPP aqueous extract could inhibit the expression of nuclear factor kappa-B (NF-κB/P65) protein, caspase-1 protein and IL-1β protein in the gastric tissue of rats, while promoting the expression of IκBα protein, indicating that the gastric mucosa protection effects of FCPP aqueous extract were mainly dependent on the NF-κB/caspase-1/IL-1β axis. The polysaccharides in FCPP aqueous extract might be the main components that exerted gastroprotective activity, as demonstrated by GES-1 cell scratch assay. This study confirmed that FCPP aqueous extract presented promising potential in protecting gastric mucosa and avoiding gastric ulcers, which could provide an experimental basis for further utilizing the medicinal value and developing new products of FCPP.
... The extract was filtered with a muslin cloth (0.25 mm pores size) then lyophilized (CHAIST LOC-2M, Germany) at -55 °C under vacuum (0.1 bar) and stored at -86°C until uses (Extraction yield = 11.46%) [16]. ...
... Our results are superior to those found by Rtibi et al. [16] who found the content of 436.64±7.65 GAE/100 g in AQE obtained by the same extraction procedure. The high yield of the AQE compared to other extracts prepared with different extraction solvents was confirmed by the work elaborated by Debib et al. [31] with an amount of 756.65±16.65 mg GAE/100 g, followed by methanolic extract with 426.12±10 mg GAE/100 g and acetone extract with 256.28 mg GAE/100 g whereas, Mopuri et al. [32] found the average of 104.67±5.51 ...
... Value of TFC in EE was 5.15 mg CAE /g [34]. Rtibi et al. [16] found the value of 50.61 ± 4.12 mg EC/100 g in the AQE. ...
The present study aims at studying the phytochemical compounds and evaluating in vivo the anti-inflammatory effect of aqueous and ethanolic extracts of Ficus carica L. fruit. The total contents of phenolics, flavonoids, and condensed tannins were determined spectrophotometrically using Folin-Ciocalteu, aluminum trichloride and vanillin reagents respectively. The in vivo anti-inflammatory activity was realized by paw edema model in mice induced by intraplantar injection of λ-carrageenan and treated with doses of each extract at 250, 350, and 500 mg/kg body weight. Paws' tissues were subjected to histological study to devote the effect of extracts at the tissue scale. Preliminary phytochemical screening indicates a significant appearance of flavonoids, tannins, alkaloids and steroids in both types of extracts. The aqueous extract marks the highest values in total phenolics, total flavonoids and condensed tannins contents: 951.06±61.08 mg GAE/100g dry weight (DW), 428.34±15.42 mg QE/100g DW and 474.07±50.25 mg CE/100g DW respectively. Our results show that both treatments with aqueous and ethanolic extract present a significant inhibition * P˂0.05 of the edema in a dose-dependent manner compared to the standard group (treated with 2-[2-(2,6-dichloroanilino) phenyl]acetic acid as anti-inflammatory medicine) during the whole experiment period. This was confirmed histologically by the observation of a less intense inflammatory infiltrate as the dose of extracts increase. This study reveals a pronounced anti-inflammatory effect in Ficus carica L. fruit extracts which could be related to the high amounts of phenolic compounds. Thus, fruit can be a promising natural substitute therapeutic to treat inflammation.
... The fine powder was extracted with distilled water (in a ratio of 1 g of the powder per 5 mL of distilled water) for 24 h at room temperature with magnetic stirring (300 rpm). The homogenate was filtered through a muslin cloth (0.25 mm mesh size) and lyophilized (CHAIST LOC-2 M, Germany) at − 55 • C and under vacuum (0.1 bar) for 48 h then stored at − 86 • C until use [29]. The percentage yields of extracts were calculated as follows [30]. ...
... The aqueous lyophilized extracts of the Az and Ta fig varieties were characterized by extraction yields of 11.46 % and 10.68 % in terms of dry weight. Our findings align with the results obtained with the same extraction protocol by Rtibi and al [29]. They reported a yield of 10 %. ...
... Several studies confirm the wealth of F. carica fruit extracts in phenolic compounds regarding TPC. Our values are higher than those obtained by Rtibi et al. reporting a value of 436.64 ± 7.65 GAE mg/ 100 g in aqueous extract of Tunisian figs with dark peel color with the same extraction procedures [29]. In contrast, they were lower than those of Pourghayoumi et al., reporting values between 1120 and 2681.8 mg GAE/100 g DW in methanolic extracts from 9 selected figs from Iran [53]. ...
Ficus carica L., commonly known as the fig tree, is a plant belonging to the Moraceae family whose fruits are traditionally used for edible and therapeutic purposes. The study aimed to investigate the lyophilized aqueous extracts of two native Algerian fig varieties, azendjar (Az) and taamriouth (Ta), as a potential source of antiox-idant compounds for possible use as ingredients in pharmaceuticals or nutraceuticals. The HPLC-DAD analysis revealed the presence of two phenolic acids (3,4-dihydroxybenzoic acid and vanillic acid) and two flavonoids (rutin and quercetin) at levels 3.67, 4.80, 84.16, and 6.87 µg/g respectively for Az variety extract, and 6.90, traces, 7.46 and 3.37 µg/g respectively for Ta variety extract. Total phenolic content was determined using the Folin-Ciocalteu method at levels 951.06 ± 61.08 and 730.88 ± 45.25 GAE mg/100 g of the dry extract. In contrast, the total flavonoid content was determined using Christ-Müller's method at levels 428.34 ± 15.42 and 307.63 ± 7.94 QE mg/100 g of dry extract in the Az and Ta varieties, respectively. The total polyphenolic content of the extract may be responsible for its antioxidant action. The gathered results indicate that the extracts from the dark peel fig variety-azendjar, are characterized by a higher content of phenolic and flavonoid compounds and antioxidant activity than the extract from the light peel variety-taamriouth. In conclusion, the conducted studies and in vitro assays indicate that the studied extracts are a source of natural antioxidants and can be considered functional raw materials for producing food supplements and pharmaceuticals.
... In general, the fruit peel is richer in phenolic compounds than the pulp (Pereira et al., 2017). The following phenolic acids were found in peel and pulp: gallic, chlorogenic, syringic and ellagic acids; flavonoids: rutin, catechin, epicatechin and apigenin (Rtibi et al., 2018) and, finally, flavones, flavonols (predominantly quercetin-3-O-rutinoside) and chlorogenic acid (Wojdyło et al., 2016). ...
... The proximate composition of F. carica (moisture, ash, protein, fat, carbohydrate and energy) was previously reported, contributing to its nutritional knowledge (Palmeira et al., 2019;Rtibi et al., 2018). F. ulmifolia and F. pseudopalma fruits presented humidity of (71.1 ± 0.7) and (76.4 ± 0.4), respectively (Recuenco et al., 2020). ...
... In vivo assays suggested the antioxidant potential of the aqueous extract of F. carica through the reduction of oxidative stress (Rtibi et al., 2018). Its alcoholic and hydroalcoholic extracts also showed this effect in diabetic rats (Arafa et al., 2020), rats with a high-fat diet (Belguith-Hadriche et al., 2016;Sukowati et al., 2019) and in rats with oxidative stress induced (Debib et al., 2016) observed through the correction in the levels of antioxidant enzymes Superoxide Dismutase (SOD), Catalase (CAT) and Glutathione Peroxidase (GPx) and reduction in the levels of Malondialdehyde (MDA). ...
The aim of this review was to compile the main reports over the last 5 years concerning the Ficus spp. fruits (Moraceae family) based on chemistry, properties, and applications as products. About 30 Ficus spp. fruits were reported focusing on their chemical composition rich in phenolic acids such as gallic, caffeic and chlorogenic acids, as well as quercetin and cyanidin derivatives. The fruits from Moraceae family presented mainly antioxidant and antimicrobial properties in addition to other functional properties to consumers health. Therefore, these fruits can be successfully considered by the food industry for the development of new products with high added value and also be considered a source of bioactive compounds.
... Additionally, figs could also be applied as juice and fermented fruit wine (Ayuso et al., 2022). Besides, fig juice can cure mild constipation (Rtibi et al., 2018), leaves can be used as animal feed (Hassanien, 2023), fig latex can be utilized to help rennet dairy products (Castelli & López, 2021), edible oils and fats can be extracted from seeds (Badgujar et al., 2014). Hence, FC plays a vital role in the extensive processing of fruits. ...
... The aqueous extract of FC is rich in phenolic acids (such as gallic acid, chlorogenic acid, prunic acid and ellagic acid) and flavonoids, which have a natural laxative effect without causing diarrhea and improve functional gastrointestinal disorders (Rtibi et al., 2018). FC is also excellent source of proanthocyanidins, lignan-6-C-pentose and apigenin. ...
Ficus carica L. (FC) is rich in phenolic compounds such as phenolic acids, flavonoids, and anthocyanins. Phenolic compounds in FC show remarkable health benefits and applications. The composition of phenolic compounds in FC can vary with some factors, such as variety, ripeness, geographical location, extraction methods and processing methods. New techniques such as supercritical fluid extraction, subcritical water extraction and ionic liquid extraction should be further developed and combined with traditional techniques to obtain higher quality sources of phenolic compounds. Numerous in vivo and in vitro studies reported healthy benefits of phenolic compounds in FC, such as anti‐oxidant, anti‐inflammatory, anti‐diabetic, anti‐obesity, anti‐cancer and anti‐Alzheimer's. Further works are required to reveal mechanisms and structure‐activity relationships, such as targeted metabolomics and pharmacological studies. In terms of applications, phenolic compounds in FC as prebiotics on the intestinal flora need to be further studied to expand their applicability in food fermentation. In a word, this review highlights the remarkable health benefits and application value of phenolic compounds in FC.
... Gastric emptying rates and gastrointestinal ink push rates were measured using the charcoal meal test as previously described [17,18] with a slight adjustment. Briefly, at the end of the experimental period, rats were given a semisolid nutrient paste containing activated carbon powder (1 mL/100g). ...
Background
Constipation is one of the most common gastrointestinal complaints. Yet, the underlying mechanisms of constipation remain to be explored deeply. Integration of microbiome and metabolome is powerful and promising to demonstrate characteristics of constipation.
Aim of Study
This study aimed to characterize intestinal microbiome and metabolome of constipation. In addition, this study revealed the correlations among behaviors, intestinal microbiota, and metabolites interrupted by constipation.
Methods
Firstly, the constipation model was successfully applied. At the macro level, the ability of learning, memory, locomotor activity, and the defecation index of rats with constipation-like phenotype were characterized. At the micro-level, 16S rRNA sequencing was applied to analyze the intestinal microbiota in rats with constipation-like phenotype. ¹H nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR)-based metabolomics was employed to investigate the metabolic phenotype of constipation. In addition, we constructed a correlation network, intuitively showing the correlations among behaviors, intestinal microbiota, and metabolites.
Results
Constipation significantly attenuated the locomotor activity, memory recognition, and frequency of defecation of rats, while increased the time of defecation. Constipation significantly changed the diversity of intestinal microbial communities, which correspondingly involved in 5 functional pathways. Besides, 28 fecal metabolites were found to be associated with constipation, among which 14 metabolites were further screened that can be used to diagnose constipation. On top of this, associated networks intuitively showed the correlations among behaviors, intestinal microbiota, and metabolites.
Conclusions
The current findings are significant in terms of not only laying a foundation for understanding characteristics of constipation, but also providing accurate diagnosis and treatments of constipation clinically.
Graphical Abstract
... The fundus was investigated as a marker of fundus functionality during GE of a phenol red meal because of the increase of the intragastric and the gradient of peptic pressure generated by its tonic contractions. 25 Indeed, the size of the meal, the caloric density, the amount of water consumed, the composition of food, the administration of medications, the dimension of the particles, the state of medical care, and stress all have an impact on how quickly the stomach empties. 26 While the extract's delaying effects on IT may be due to muscle contraction inhibition and/or expansion of the gut muscle's inhibitory factors, the extract's delaying effects on GE may be due to stomach musculature relaxation and/or pyloric sphincter constriction. ...
The Achillea genus is often used in traditional medicine for the treatment of digestive disorders.
The current research sought to understand the mechanisms of action of the decocted extract of Achillea odorata L., with a focus on its possible effects on neurotransmitters that control gastrointestinal motility, as well as how it affected intestinal transit (IT) and gastric emptying (GE). Mice were given ADE treatments at 100, 200, or 400 mg.kg-1 doses, and an hour later they were given phenol red meal. To determine the effect of the extract on IT and GE, rats were given ADE (200 mg.kg-1) in a different set of experiments while also receiving different pharmacological agents, such as atropine (3.45 mmol.kg-1), L-Nitro-N-Arginine (L-NNA) (1.36 mmol.kg-1), or indomethacin (5.58 mmol.kg-1). At doses of 100, 200, or 400 mg.kg-1, ADE showed a significant decrease in GE and IT; the corresponding values for GE were 45.62±2.69%, 42.92±4.91%, and 28.80±3.02%, respectively. and, similarly, 57.87±3.97%, 48.72±2.01%, and 42.81±3.96% for IT. These effects on GE delay and antimotility activity were mediated through the cholinergic, nitric oxide, and cyclooxygenase pathways induced by ADE. A chemical analysis of ADE using high-performance liquid chromatography coupled with a photodiode array detector
(HPLC–DAD) revealed the presence of 12 phenolic acid compounds. The redominant phenolic compound identified in A. odorata was chlorogenic acid, with a concentration of 33.43±0.18 mg.g1 . These results suggest that components of A. odorata L. may have potential applications in controlling gastrointestinal motility problems, such as diarrhoea
... One of the main causes of tissue lipid peroxidation is the excessive generation of ROS [65]. Our findings demonstrate that the colons of DSS control animals had higher MDA levels, whereas the administration of AEUD or MESA considerably decreased them. ...
Abstract
Background and Objectives: Urtica dioica, a source of bioactive functional compounds, provides nutritional and gastrointestinal therapeutic benefits. This study attempted to investigate the prophylactic coloprotective action of an aqueous extract of Urtica dioica (AEUD) on dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-induced ulcerative colitis (UC). Materials and Methods: Phenolic compounds, total sugar, and mineral levels were determined in AEUD. Then, AEUD at different doses (50, 100, and 200 mg/kg, BW, p.o.) and mesalazine (MESA) as a standard treatment (100 mg/kg, BW, p.o.) were given orally for 21 days. Acute colitis was induced by administering drinking water with 5% (w/v) DSS for 7 days. Body weight variation, fecal occult blood, and stool consistency were determined daily. The severity of colitis was graded according to colon length, disease activity index (DAI), histological evaluations, and biochemical alterations. Rats orally administered DSS regularly developed clinical and macroscopic signs of colitis. Results: Due to its richness in phenolic and flavonoid compounds (247.65 ± 2.69 mg EAG/g MS and 34.08 ± 0.53 mg EQt/g MS, respectively), AEUD markedly ameliorated DAI, ulcer scores, colon length shortening, colonic histopathological changes, and hematological and biochemical modifications. Taken together, AEUD treatment notably (p < 0.01) suppressed DSS-induced UC by reducing oxidative stress via lowering MDA/H2O2 production and stimulating the effect of enzyme antioxidants as well as attenuating inflammation by decreasing CRP levels by 79.5% between the DSS and DSS + AEUD-50 groups compared to the MESA group (75.6%). Conclusions: AEUD was sufficient to exert a coloprotective effect that might be influenced by its bioactive compounds’ anti-inflammatory and antioxidant capabilities.
Keywords: Urtica dioica; ulcerative colitis; oxidative stress; antioxidants; phenolic compounds
... The majority of this antioxidant activity is caused by the presence of phenolic compounds [63,64]. 12 One of the main causes of tissue lipid peroxidation is the excessive generation of ROS [65].Our results show increased MDA levels in the colon of DSS control animals while AEUD or MESA treatment significantly decreased it. This shows that the AEUD's active ingredient has a protective impact that is remarkably similar to MESA's protective effect in reducing oxidative damage. ...
Background and Objectives:Urticadioica, a source of bioactive functional compounds, provides nutritional and gastrointestinal therapeutic benefits.The recent study attempted to investigate the prophylactic coloprotective action of aqueous extract of Urticadioica (AEUD) on dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-induced ulcerative colitis (UC). Materials and Methods: Phenolic compounds, total sugar, and mineral levels were determined in AEUD. Then, AEUD at different doses (50, 100, and 200 mg/kg, BW, p.o.) and Mesalazine (MESA), as a standard treatment (100 mg/kg, BW, p.o.), were given orally for 21 days. Acute colitis was induced by administering drinking water with 5% (w/v) DSS for 7 days. Body weight variation, fecal occult blood, and stool consistency were determined daily. The severity of colitis was graded by colon length, disease activity index (DAI), histological evaluations, and biochemical alterations. Rats orally administered with DSS regularly developed clinical and macroscopic signs of colitis.Results: Due to its richness in phenolic and flavonoid compounds (247.65±2.69 mg EAG/g MS and 34.08±0.53 mg EQt/g MS, respectively),AEUD markedly ameliorated DAI, ulcer scores, colon length shortening, colonic histopathological changes, and hematological and biochemical modifications. Taken together, AEUD-treatment suppressed notably (p< .01) DSS-induced UC by reducing oxidative stress via lowering MDA/H2O2 generation and stimulating effect of enzyme antioxidants as well as attenuating inflammation by decreasing CRP levels by 79.5% between DSS and DSS+AEUD-50 groups compared to MESA-group (75.6%).Conclusions: AEUD was sufficient to exert its coloprotectiveeffect which might be influenced by its bioactive compounds’ anti-inflammatory and antioxidant capabilities.
... Components of F. carica include polysaccharides, carbohydrates, phenolics and flavonoids. Ficus carica alleviates ulcerative colitis symptoms with constipation pathophysiology, so the result after consumption of the fruit showed significantly increased gastrointestinal transit ratio and gastric emptying (Rtibi et al., 2018). F. carica fruit has prenylated isoflavone derivatives such as ficucaricones that exhibit anti-inflammatory, the prenylated isoflavone derivatives was greater in inhibiting the production of NO with IC50 values between (0.89 ± 0.05) μM to (8.49 ± 0.18) μM compared to hydrocortisone which was utilized as a positive control (Y-P. ...
Many studies have been published about the chemical compounds produced by Ficus carica Linn. and benefits toward the health. F. carica used since ancient time and widely for medicinal purpose, the leaves decoction was consumed as a tea. The benefits of F. carica components are still under investigation by many researchers around the globe. This review provides a summary of the constituents of the chemical compounds and toxicity studies, clinical studies and biological activities conducted on F. carica fruit, leaves, latex, bark, and root. Approximately 125 biochemical compounds of Ficus carica Linn were identified and classified under eight categories: triterpenoids, volatile ingredients, coumarins, furanocoumarins, flavonoids, hydroxybenzoic acids, hydroxycinnamic acids, as well as miscellaneous. Numerous scientific studies have demonstrated its antimicrobial, anticholinesterase, anti-diabetic, hepatoprotective, renoprotective, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anticancer properties. We know our review will be a valuable for those looking for scientific evidence resource that support F. carica leaves medicinal properties, as well as the research gaps that need to be filled to enhance the economic value and medical benefits of the F. carica leaf. In this review, extensive literature research was conducted to reveal the benefits of F. carica for human health.
... The FCAE was administered orally to the rats at a dose of 150-300 mg/kg once a day for 7 days. The oral intake of FCAE significantly increased gastrointestinal transit-ratio and gastric-emptying by hastening their times, and reduced the constipation severity which was induced by the colitis [124] (Table 6). These findings provide a foundation for future research on the therapeutic properties of figs in improving digestive health. ...
With their rich history dating back 6000 years, figs are one of the oldest known plants to mankind and are a classical fruit in the Mediterranean diet. They possess a diverse array of bioactive components, including flavonoids, phenolic acids, carotenoids, and tocopherols, which have been used for centuries in traditional medicine for their health-promoting effects addressing gastrointestinal, respiratory, inflammatory, metabolic, and cardiovascular issues. This review summarizes the updated information on the phenolic composition, antioxidant capacity and other functional properties of fresh and dried figs cultivated in various parts of the world, highlighting variation in phenolic composition based on cultivar, harvesting time, maturity stage, processing, and fig parts. Additionally, the review delves into the bio-accessibility and bio-availability of bioactive components from figs and their potential influence on cardiovascular health, diabetes, obesity, and gut/digestive health. Data suggest that the intake of figs regularly in the diet, alone or with other dried fruits, increases select micronutrient intake and is associated with higher diet quality, respectively. Research in animal and human models of health and disease risk provide preliminary health benefits data on figs and their extracts from fig parts; however, additional well-controlled human studies, particularly using fig fruit, will be required to uncover and verify the potential impact of dietary intake of figs on modern day health issues.
... These bio-compounds are gaining a potent concern in the biopharmaceutical sector and encouraging the seeking for new important roots of bioactive components. In fact, several medicinal plants containing alkaloids, tannins, coumarins such as Aloe ferox, 6 Malva sylvestris, 7 Urginea indica Kunth, 8 Ficus carica, 9 and others certainly declined affections related to LP-caused slow colonic motility as the three stool parameters, gastric-emptying time, and small intestinal transit time as well as oxidative stress parameters management in animal models. ...
Ginger ( Zingiber officinale) rhizomes are commonly used in foods and employed for many ailments including gastrointestinal disorders. Our main objective was to evaluate the effect of Zingiber officinale aqueous extract (ZOAE) on gastrointestinal (GI) physiological motility and colonic dysmotility. Thereby, Wistar rats were given loperamide (LP, 3 mg/kg, b.w.) and ZOAE (75, 150, and 300 mg/kg, b.w.) or yohimbine (YOH, 2 mg/kg, b.w.). ZOAE-action on intestinal secretion was assessed using Ussing chamber technique and intestinal motility with isometric transducer. GI-transit (GIT) and gastric emptying (GE) were evaluated with the charcoal meal test and the red phenol methods. ZOAE-bioactive components were analyzed by liquid chromatography-high resolution electrospray ionization mass spectrometry (LC-HRESIMS). Constipation was induced with LP and the different indicators such as stool composition, GIT, oxidative stress biological parameters, and colonic mucosa histological alteration were performed. Anti-constipation effect of ZOAE was confirmed on stool composition, GIT (53.42% to 85.57%), GE (55.47% to 98.88%), and re-established oxidative balance. ZOAE induces an amplitude increase of spontaneous intestinal contraction with EC50 of 10.52 μg/mL. No effect of ZOAE was observed on electrogenic transport of intestinal fluid. These findings suggest that ZOAE-bioactive candidates might exert an anti-constipation action and spontaneous intestinal contraction modulation.
... Furthermore, we also demonstrated that HO improved the intestinal motility of DSS-induced colitis in mice by decreasing total transit time. It has been reported that DSS exposure delays gastrointestinal emptying, disturbs intestinal motility, and leads to constipation (Rtibi et al., 2018). Constipation is a functional gastrointestinal disorder characterized by slow transit or reduction in the frequency of bowel movements (Bai et al., 2016), and it is recognized as a characteristic of DSS-induced colitis (Wadie et al., 2012). ...
The opioid system plays a crucial role in maintaining gastrointestinal homeostasis. Endogenous opioid peptide enkephalins have anti-inflammatory effect and participate in the treatment of inflammatory bowel diseases (IBDs). Here, we investigated the effect of natural enkephalinase inhibitor human opiorphin (HO) on dextran sodium sulfate (DSS)-induced colitis in mice. Our results showed that central administration of HO attenuated DSS-induced colitis, as indicated by the reduction of disease activity index (DAI) scores, macroscopic scores, histological scores, and the myeloperoxidase (MPO) activity. Moreover, HO alleviated DSS-induced inflammation by decreasing inflammatory cytokines TNF-α, IL-6, and IL-1β, and increasing anti-inflammatory cytokine IL-10 in both serum and colon tissues in DSS-treated mice. The potential anti-inflammatory effect of HO at a dose of 40 μg/kg was observed as evidenced by a decrease in nuclear factor κB (NF-κB) p65, toll-like receptor-4 (TLR-4), iNOS, and COX-2. HO also improved intestinal barrier function by enhancing the expression of tight junction proteins. Furthermore, HO treatment significantly inhibited activities of neutral endopeptidase (NEP) and aminopeptidase N (APN), elevated serum enkephalins concentrations, and increased expressions of mu and delta opioid receptors. In addition, pretreatment with opioid receptor antagonist naloxone hydrochloride (NH) compromised the protective effect of HO and aggravated colitis symptoms, as indicated by inhibited anti-inflammatory effects, disrupted intestinal barrier function, and decreased opioid receptor activity. In conclusion, these data indicate that HO protects against DSS-induced colitis by inhibiting TLR4/NF-κB pathway activation and improving intestinal barrier function through activation of the endogenous opioid system. Therefore, targeting the opioid system with peptidase inhibitors intervention would be a novel strategy in the therapy of IBD.
... Previous studies have proved that CGA could be anti-inflammatory and antioxidant (Tosovic et al. 2017;Zhang et al. 2018). At the same time, CGA was involved in the treatment of ulcerative colitis (Zhang et al. 2017;Rtibi et al. 2018). Besides, CGA could also take part in regulating cytotoxicity of human oral tumour cells (Jiang et al. 2000). ...
Context
Chlorogenic acid (CGA) has good antioxidant effects, but its explicit mechanism in cerebral ischaemia-reperfusion injury is still uncertain.
Objective
We studied the effect of CGA in human brain microvascular endothelial cells (HBMECs) under OGD/R damage.
Materials and methods
HBMECs in 4 groups were treated with oxygen-glucose deprivation/re-oxygenation (OGD/R) (4 + 24 h), normal no CGA treatment and different concentrations (20, 40 or 80 μM) of CGA. Male C57BL/6J mice were classified as sham, middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO), and MCAO + CGA (30 mg/kg/day) groups. Mice in the sham group were not subjected to MCAO. Cell viability, apoptosis, angiogenesis and related protein levels were investigated by CCK-8, flow cytometry, TUNEL staining, tube formation and western blot assays. Infarct volume of brain tissues was analyzed by TTC staining.
Results
CGA curbed apoptosis (from 32.87% to 13.12% in flow cytometry; from 34.46% to 17.8% in TUNEL assay) but accelerated cell angiogenesis of HBMECs with OGD/R treatment. Moreover, CGA augmented activation of the PI3K-Akt signalling (p-PI3K/PI3K level, from 0.39 to 0.49; p-Akt/Akt level, from 0.52 to 0.81), and the effect of CGA on apoptosis and angiogenesis was abolished by an inhibitor of PI3K-Akt signalling. Furthermore, CGA attenuated infarct (from 41.26% to 22.21%) and apoptosis and promoted angiogenesis and activation of the PI3K/Akt signalling in MCAO-induced mice.
Conclusions
CGA effectively repressed apoptosis and promoted angiogenesis in OGD/R-treated HBMECs and MCAO-treated mice by modulating PI3K-Akt signalling. Our research provides a theoretical basis for the use of CGA in the treatment of ischaemic stroke.
... Disruption of the intestinal epithelial barrier including histological damage (48) DSS group, which further indicated that DSS successfully induced colitis. Interestingly, we observed significant variations in serum TChol and LDL, which were consistent with the findings of Rtibi et al. (50) and Zheng et al. (51). In addition, the TJ structural damage could be one of the reasons of elevated serum lipid levels. ...
Liver injury is a common complication of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). However, the mechanisms of liver injury development are not clear in IBD patients. Gut microbiota is thought to be engaged in IBD pathogenesis. Here, by an integrated analysis of host transcriptome and colonic microbiome, we have attempted to reveal the mechanism of liver injury in colitis mice. In this study, dextran sulfate sodium (DSS) -induced mice colitis model was constructed. Liver transcriptome showed significant up- and down-regulation of pathways linked to immune response and lipid metabolism, respectively. Whilst the colon transcriptome exhibited dramatic alterations in immune response and pathways associated with cell growth and death. The microbiota of DSS-treated mice underwent strong transitions. Correlation analyses identified genes associated with liver and colon injury, whose expression was associated with the abundance of liver and gut health-related bacteria. Collectively, the results indicate that the liver injury in colitis mice may be related to the intestinal dysbiosis and host-microbiota interactions. These findings may provide new insights for identifying potential targets for the treatment of IBD and its induced liver injury.
... e key compounds were ellipticine, ellagic acid, isoguaiacin, beta-sitosterol, (S)-laudanine, protopine, codeine, papaverine, cheilanthifoline, noscapine, peraksine, myricanone, norswertianin, tetrahydrofuroguaiacin B, narceine, permethrin, galbacin, cryptogenin, and chebulic acid. Ficus carica aqueous extract containing ellagic acid can ameliorate UC-associated acute functional gastrointestinal disorder in rats [43]; A study verified the ethnomedical use of Cornus mas L. for the treatment of UC, in which ellagic acid was identified in extracts and its amount quantified [44]. A study provided evidence for the therapeutic effectiveness of Canna x generalis L.H. Bailey rhizome extract for the treatment of UC and discovered beta-sitosterol as one of the major identified constituents [45], which was shown to improve experimental colitis in mice by targeting pathogenic bacteria [46]. ...
Objective. We analyzed the efficacy and pharmacological mechanisms of action of Zhen Ren Yang Zang decoction (ZRYZD) on ulcerative colitis (UC) using meta-analysis and network pharmacology. Methods. The major databases were searched for randomized controlled trials of ZRYZD for the treatment of UC. Meta-analysis of the efficacy of ZRYZD on UC was conducted using RevMan software. Active compounds and target genes were acquired using the Traditional Chinese Medicine Systems Pharmacology Database and Analysis Platform. UC-related genes were searched using the GeneCards database. Gene Ontology (GO) functional enrichment and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway enrichment analyses were performed using RGUI. A compound-target network was constructed using Cytoscape software, and a protein-protein interaction network was constructed using the STRING database. Molecular docking simulations of the macromolecular protein targets and their corresponding ligand compounds were performed using the AutoDock tool and AutoDock Vina software. Results. Meta-analysis revealed that the total effective rate and recovery rate of clinical efficacy were significantly higher in the experimental group than those of the control group. The screening identified 169 active compounds and 277 active target genes for ZRYZD. The 277 active target genes were compared with the 4,798 UC-related genes. This identified 187 active target genes of ZRYZD for UC that correlated with 138 active compounds. GO functional enrichment and KEGG pathway enrichment analyses were performed, and compound-target and protein-protein interaction networks were constructed. The key compounds and key target proteins were then selected. Finally, target protein binding with the corresponding compound was analyzed using molecular docking. Conclusion. Our findings demonstrate the effectiveness and safety of ZRYZD for the treatment of UC and provide insight into the underlying pharmacological mechanisms of action. Furthermore, key compounds were identified, laying the foundation for future studies on ZRYZD for the treatment of UC.
1. Introduction
Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a common chronic intestinal disease of unknown etiology and is associated with multifactorial, multilevel, and nonspecific inflammation [1]. The clinical manifestations of UC include diarrhea, abdominal pain, and stool containing mucus, pus, and/or blood. The incidence of UC is 1.2–20.3 per 100,000 persons per year, and its prevalence is 7.6–246.0 per 100,000 per year [2].
The lesions in UC involve the rectum and sigmoid colon, sometimes throughout the whole colon, mainly invading the colorectal mucosa and submucosa and showing phased and diffuse distribution, resulting in a propensity for relapse [3]. Mesalazine, immunosuppressants, and corticosteroids are clinically used to treat UC; however, these drugs are needed chronically and can cause adverse reactions, and relapse is common after cessation [4, 5]. Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) has a long history of treating diarrhea and dysentery and is compliant with the concept of individualized treatment [6]. Recently, TCM has been used to treat UC, with positive outcomes [7–9].
Zhen Ren Yang Zang decoction (ZRYZD), first used during the Song Dynasty as the basic prescription for the treatment of diarrhea, primarily consists of yingsuke, roudoukou, hezi, rougui, dangshen, baizhu, danggui, baishao, muxiang, and gancao (scientific names: Pericarpium Papaveris (PP), Semen Myristicae (SM), Fructus Chebulae (FC), Cortex Cinnamomi (CC), Radix Codonopsis (RC), Rhizoma Atractylodis Macrocephalae (RAM), Radix Angelicae Sinensis (RAS), Radix Paeoniae Alba (RPA), Radix Aucklandiae (RA), and Radix Glycyrrhizae (RG), respectively) [10]. According to TCM theory, PP, SM, and FC are monarch and minister herbs and are regarded as the main components of ZRYZD.
ZRYZD acts as an intestinal astringent, has antidiarrheal properties, and warms the spleen and kidney. Several clinical studies have reported that the clinical effect of ZRYZD in the treatment of UC is remarkable [10–12]. Previous basic research studies suggest that ZRYZD can ameliorate colonic mucosal dysfunction and that it has a favorable therapeutic action in trinitrobenzene sulfonic acid-induced colitis [13]. Therefore, the clinical efficacy and pharmacology of ZRYZD for the treatment of UC merit further investigation.
In this study, we analyzed the efficacy and pharmacological mechanisms of action of ZRYZD for the treatment of UC using meta-analysis and network pharmacology. First, we screened randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that investigated the clinical efficacy of ZRYZD for UC and performed a meta-analysis to assess clinical efficacy and safety. Next, we identified the active compounds in ZRYZD and its target genes and compared them with UC-related genes to identify the active target genes involved in the therapeutic action of ZRYZD for UC. Subsequently, Gene Ontology (GO) functional enrichment and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway enrichment analyses were performed. The compound-target, key compound-target, and protein-protein interaction (PPI) networks were constructed, and the key compounds and key target proteins were selected. Finally, target protein binding with the corresponding compound was analyzed using molecular docking analysis.
2. Materials and Methods
2.1. Screening of RCTs of the Efficacy of ZRYZD in the Treatment of UC
PubMed, the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, Chinese National Knowledge Infrastructure, Wanfang Data, the Chongqing VIP database, and the Chinese Biomedical Literature database, from the establishment of each database to August 15, 2021, were searched using the terms “Zhen Ren Yang Zang decoction” and “ulcerative colitis.” These terms were searched in titles, abstracts, and the full text. We also checked references and citations in the identified studies manually to include other potentially eligible trials until no additional articles could be identified.
The inclusion criteria included the following: the study was designed as a RCT, the participants had a diagnosis of UC, ZRYZD was used in the experimental group, the control group used conventional therapy without TCM therapy, and there were clear outcome indicators. Exclusion criteria included the following: the outcome data of the study were incomplete and the ZRYZD prescription lacked the main components.
2.2. Data Extraction, Quality Assessment, and Meta-Analysis
Two reviewers independently extracted the information from the included studies. The main information included the first author, year of publication, number of patients in each group, methods of intervention in the experimental and control groups, and outcome data.
The Cochrane Reviewers’ Handbook of guidelines was used to assess the risk of bias. The following seven criteria were used: random sequence generation; allocation concealment; patient blinding; assessor blinding; incomplete outcome data; selective outcome reporting; other risks of bias [14].
These main data were input into the Cochrane Collaboration’s RevMan 5.3 software for meta-analysis to analyze the efficacy of ZRYZD on UC.
2.3. Screening of Active Compounds in ZRYZD
The compounds in the ten component herbs (PP, SM, FC, CC, RC, RAM, RAS, RPA, RA, and RG) were obtained using the Traditional Chinese Medicine Systems Pharmacology Database and Analysis Platform (TCMSP) (https://tcmspw.com/tcmsp.php) [15]. TCMSP is a unique systems pharmacology platform of Chinese herbal medicines that captures the relationships between drugs, targets and diseases. Oral bioavailability (OB) and drug-likeness (DL) are commonly used in network pharmacology to define active compounds. OB represents the rate the compound is absorbed into the body, and DL represents the degree to which a compound contains specific functional groups or has physical characteristics similar to existing drugs [16]. We used OB ≥ 30% and DL ≥ 0.18 to screen for the active compounds (the DLs of compounds in CC are generally low, and we, therefore, set DL ≥ 0.10 as the filter criteria) [17].
2.4. Screening of the Target Genes of Active Compounds
The corresponding target genes of the active compounds were also retrieved from the TCMSP. Setting the search format as “homo sapiens,” the target genes were imported into the UniProt Knowledgebase, a comprehensive resource for protein sequences and annotation data (https://www.uniprot.org/) [18]. Then, the human official gene symbols were identified and were considered the active target genes of ZRYZD.
2.5. Acquisition of UC-Related Genes and Identification of Active Target Genes of ZRYZD Acting on UC
“Ulcerative colitis” was used as the keyword in the GeneCards database (https://www.genecards.org/). The GeneCards database is a searchable, integrative database providing comprehensive, user-friendly information on all annotated and predicted human genes [19], from which the UC-related genes were searched and acquired. Then, the active target genes of ZRYZD were compared with the UC-related genes, and the intersecting genes were defined as the active target genes of ZRYZD acting on UC.
2.6. GO Functional Enrichment and KEGG Pathway Enrichment Analyses
The RGUI 3.6.1 and org.Hs.eg.db packages were used to obtain the entrezIDs of the active target genes. Then, RGUI and the clusterProfiler package were used to perform the GO functional enrichment analyses, which included the biological process (BP), molecular function (MF), cellular component (CC) analysis, and the KEGG pathway enrichment analysis [20].
2.7. Construction of the Compound-Target Network
Cytoscape 3.6.0 software and its NetworkAnalyzer tool function were used to construct and analyze the compound-target network. Nodes represent compounds and target genes, and edges represent the relationships between them. According to the degree of connection between the compound and the target gene (the more the connections, the higher the degree value), the compounds and target genes in the network were subject to further analysis [21].
2.8. Construction of the PPI Network
A PPI network was constructed after introducing the active target genes into the STRING database. The STRING database supports functional discovery in genome-wide experimental datasets (https://string-db.org/) [22]. Defining the research species as “homo sapiens” and the lowest interaction score of 0.4, a PPI network was obtained. Then, the PPI network data were used to perform topology analysis, and the key target proteins of ZRYZD acting on UC were selected according to the degree values of each target protein (the more the connections, the higher the degree value) using Cytoscape 3.6.0 software and its NetworkAnalyzer tool [21].
2.9. Verification of Molecular Docking
The binding of the target protein with its corresponding compound was analyzed using molecular docking. The structures of the target proteins were obtained from the RCSB PDB database (https://www.rcsb.org/), and the compounds were obtained from the PubChem database (https://pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/). Molecular docking simulations of target proteins with their corresponding compounds were performed using AutoDockTool 1.5.6 and AutoDock Vina software [23, 24].
2.10. Statistical Analysis
RevMan 5.3 software was used for meta-analysis, and dichotomous data were expressed as the odds ratio (OR) with 95% confidence interval (CI), and continuous data were expressed as mean difference (MD) with 95% CI. Heterogeneity was assessed with the Q-test (-value and I²), and indicated heterogeneity across studies. Studies with I² < 50% were considered to have no heterogeneity, and those with I² ≥ 50% were considered to have heterogeneity. If no heterogeneity was detected, the fixed effects model was used as the pooling method; otherwise, the random effects model was used [25, 26]. was considered statistically significant.
Using the bioinformatics tools of the platforms and software mentioned above, some statistical analyses for network pharmacology were performed automatically. In the GO functional enrichment and KEGG pathway enrichment analyses, an adjusted (q-value) < 0.05 was considered statistically significant.
3. Results
3.1. Screened RCTs Investigating the Efficacy of ZRYZD for the Treatment of UC
A total of 118 studies were retrieved through database searching, and 36 studies were retained after removing duplication. According to the inclusion and exclusion criteria, a total of 31 studies were excluded after reading the title, abstract, and full text. Five RCTs [11, 12, 27–29] were included for further evaluation. The literature screening process is shown in Figure 1.
... Regarding their nutritional value, figs have recently been used in food processing [6,7]. Figs also have extensive medicinal value, as well as having functions in the nourishment of the stomach, the clearance of the intestines, the reduction of swelling, and detoxification [8][9][10]. ...
Flavonoid-rich leaves of the Ficus carica L. plant are usually discarded as waste. In this work, ultrasonic enzyme-assisted aqueous two-phase extraction (UEAATPE) was proposed as an innovative method to estimate the total flavonoids present in F. carica L. leaves. Total flavonoids were analyzed qualitatively and quantitatively by UPLC-QTOF-MS. At 38% (w/w) ethanol/18% (w/w) ammonium sulfate, we achieved the optimum conditions in which to establish an easy-to-form aqueous two-phase extraction (ATPE) as the final system. The optimal UEAATPE conditions were set at an enzymatic concentration of 0.4 U/g, 150 min enzymolysis time, an enzymolysis temperature of 50 °C, a liquid–solid ratio of 20:1 (mL/g), and 30 min ultrasonic time. The yields of the total flavonoids, i.e., 60.22 mg/g, obtained by UEAATPE were found to be 1.13-fold, 1.21-fold, 1.27-fold, and 2.43-fold higher than those obtained by enzyme-assisted ATPE (EAATPE), ultrasonic-assisted ATPE (UAATPE), ATPE, and soxhlet extraction (SE) methods, respectively. Furthermore, eleven flavonoids from the leaves of the F. carica L. plant were completely identified and fully characterized. Among them, ten flavonoids have been identified for the first time from the leaves of the F. carica L. plant. These flavonoids are quercetin 3-O-hexobioside-7-O-hexoside, 2-carboxyl-1,4-naphthohydroquinone-4-O-hexoside, luteolin 6-C-hexoside, 8-C-pentoside, kaempferol 6-C-hexoside-8-C-hexoside, quercetin 6-C-hexobioside, kaempferol 6-C-hexoside-8-C-hexoside, apigenin 2″-O-pentoside, apigenin 6-C-hexoside, quercetin 3-O-hexoside, and kaempferol 3-O-hexobioside. Therefore, F. carica L. leaves contain new kinds of unidentified natural flavonoids and are a rich source of biological activity. Therefore, this research has potential applications and great value in waste handling and utilization.
... Exposure to this extract also reduced the elevated MDA and H 2 O 2 levels, and significantly enhanced the reduction of antioxidant enzymes (SOD, CAT and GPx) activity [5]. Moreover, the Ficus carica aqueous extract was reported to markedly reduce fecal markers, water content, oxidative stress indicators and lipid metabolism in Lop-induced constipation and dextran sulfate sodium (DDS)induced acute colitis models [6]. However, evidence correlating antioxidants and constipation is very limited, although the laxative effects of numerous natural products, including Asparagus cochinchinensis, L. platyphylla, and galla rhois, are well known [7][8][9]. ...
To investigate the role of tannin-enriched extracts of Ecklonia cava (TEE) on the regulation of oxidative balance and laxative activity in chronic constipation, we investigated alterations after exposure to TEE, on constipation phenotypes, muscarinic cholinergic regulation, and oxidative stress responses in the transverse colons of SD rats with loperamide (Lop)-induced constipation. This extract contains high levels of total condensed tannin content (326.5 mg/g), and exhibited high inhibitory activity against 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radicals. TEE treatment induced significant improvements in reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, superoxide dismutase (SOD) expression and nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) phosphorylation in primary smooth muscles of rat intestine cells (pRISMCs) and transverse colon of constipation model. Also, Lop+TEE treated groups showed alleviated outcomes for the following: most stool parameters, gastrointestinal transit, and intestine length were remarkably recovered; a similar recovery pattern was observed in the histopathological structure, mucin secretion, water channel expression and gastrointestinal hormones secretion in the transverse colon; expressions of muscarinic acetylcholine receptors M2/M3 (mAChR M2/M3) and their mediators on muscarinic cholinergic regulation were significantly recovered. Taken together, these results provide the first evidence that TEE stimulates oxidative stress modulation and muscarinic cholinergic regulation when exerting its laxative effects in chronic constipation models.
... Some studies reported that colonic mucus was decreased in a loperamide-induced constipation model (Shimotoyodome et al., 2001). Animals with colitis exhibit thinner colonic mucus layers and exacerbate constipation (Bergstrom et al., 2010;Rtibi et al., 2018). Similar results are also observed in colitis patients in clinical (Barros et al., 2019;Colombel et al., 2019). ...
Ethnopharmacological relevance:
Tiantian capsule (TTC), as a functional food, which consists of four herb medicines, including Aloe vera Burm.f. (25%), leaf juices, dried; Cucurbita moschata Duch. (25%), fructus, dried; Poria cocos (Schw.) Wolf. (12.5%), sclerotium, dried; Tremella fuciformis Berk. (12.5%), fruiting bodies, dried, and one extract xylooligosaccharides (25%) from Maize Cob by enzymolysis, has been commonly used in China to ameliorate constipation.
Aim of the study:
The aim of the work is to elucidate the potential laxative mechanisms of TTC in loperamide-induced constipated rats.
Materials and methods:
LC-MS/MS was employed for analyzing the TTC extract. The gastrointestinal transit was evaluated by X-ray. The H&E and Alcian-Blue stain were applied to determine the changes of goblet cells and mucus layer, respectively. Meanwhile, levels of neurotransmitters were evaluated by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. The protein expressions were also measured by immunohistochemistry and western blot.
Results:
Our results showed that TTC administration attenuated constipation responses in aspects of fecal pellets number, water content of feces, stomach emptying and gastrointestinal transit. Further investigations revealed that TTC treatment not only induced the recovery of neurotransmitters, such as motilin, substance P, somatostatin, endothelin and vasoactive intestinal peptide, but also up-regulated the expressions of c-kit and stem cell factor (SCF). Additionally, the number of goblet cells and thickness of the mucus layer were elevated, and the guanylate cyclase C-cGMP signal pathway was also up-regulated after TTC treatment.
Conclusion:
Our findings demonstrated that the laxative effect of TTC in constipation rats is probably due to the regulation of bowel movement and intestinal fluid secretion.
... 65 The ROS overproduction is a major contributing factor involved in tissue lipid peroxidation. 66 Therefore, we investigated the MDA level, the final product of lipid peroxidation. As it is expected, the colon MDA concentration, in the DSS induced colitis mice, was extremely high compared to the control group. ...
Rosa canina is a well-known medicinal plant used in folk remedy that alleviates various disorders, including inflammation, gastritis, and diarrhea. The objective of this investigation was to identify and quantify the phenolic components of R. canina methanolic extract (RCME) and to determine its protective action with dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-generated mice colitis model. RCME chemical analysis was done using Liquid Chromatography-Electrospray Ionization-Tandem Mass Spectrometry, and experimental animals received RCME at different doses before colitis induction by oral DSS administration during 7 days. Another group received sulfasalazine as a positive control. Colitis damages and RCME benefits were assessed using histopathological and biochemical changes and improvements. Many phenolic compounds have been identified. In addition, the DSS intoxication induced an alteration of colonic epithelium associated with an oxidative stress state. DSS administration led to an increase or decrease of intracellular mediators such as free iron and ionizable calcium. RCME consumption effectively protected against colonic histological/biochemical alterations induced by DSS intoxication providing support for the traditional use of this plant.
... Ficus carica are used in the traditional medicine as a natural laxative and to treat numerous disorders such as gastrointestinal (colic, indigestion, constipation, and loss of appetite). Rtibi et al. [42] examined the effects of a Ficus carica aqueous extract on gastric emptying and ulcerative colitis-enhanced acute functional gastrointestinal disorders induced by dextran sulfate sodium in male Wistar rats. Ulcerative colitis caused a significantly gastrointestinal motility inhibition in the normal rats and notably aggravated the constipation in loperamide-treated rats. ...
... A recent study clearly exhibited the participation of oxidative stress/inammation in gastrointestinal problems such as ulcers and constipation. 50 This contribution was checked by the augmentation of intracellular ROS production, which induces damage to lipids, proteins and DNA and inammatory indicators. Iron catalyzes hydroxyl radical-mediated oxidative injury through its implication in the Fenton pathway, which leads to the reduction of this element in oxidative stress condition. ...
Thyme is a rich source of bioactive phytochemicals and it is frequently used in folk-medicine to treat gastroenteritis irritations. The current study was performed to examine the potential of Thymus vulgaris aqueous extract (TV-AE) to protect against delayed gastric emptying (DGE) and colonic constipation in rats. Stomach ulcer was caused by a single oral dose administration of indomethacin (INDO) (30 mg kg À1 of body weight). Constipation was induced following intravenous intoxication of rats with vinblastine (VINB) (2 mg kg À1 of body weight) for one week. The effect of TV-AE at two graduated doses (100 and 200 mg kg À1) on DGE, gastrointestinal transit (GIT) and constipated rats and biochemical parameters was estimated using phenol red, charcoal meal test and colorimetric methods, respectively. The phytochemical-profile of TV-AE was explored using high-performance liquid chromatography coupled with photodiode array detection and electrospray ionization-mass spectrometry (HPLC-PDA/ESI-MS). INDO and VINB caused a significant reduction in (P < 0.05) DGE and GIT and colonic motility dysfunction. TV-AE consumption remarkably (P < 0.05) attenuated the DGE (from 58.56% to 69.871%) and difficulty in evacuating stools (from 48.5 to 55.5 fecal pellets per rat) and balanced the GIT (65% to 71%). These GI-ameliorative effects were accompanied by reversed INDO/VINB-related oxidative changes, lipid-metabolism alteration and intracellular pathway moderation. HPLC-PDA/ESI-MS-analysis identified several chemical constituents including rosmarinic acid, quinic acid, luteolin-7-o-glucoside, protocatechuic acid and trans-cinnamic acid. Thus, TV-AE bioactive components may be used as medicinal substances to regulate/attenuate gastrointestinal-physiological activities and disturbances, which support its pharmacological use.
... Chlorogenic acid is mainly found in traditional Chinese medicine honeysuckle, hawthorn, eucommia, and chrysanthemum, especially in coffee [9]. Studies have shown that chlorogenic acid has antioxidation, anti-inflammatory, and antibacterial effects, is free radical scavenging, and improves immune regulation [10][11][12][13][14]. Chlorogenic acid was shown to have a certain therapeutic effect on ulcerative colitis, inhibiting intestinal inflammation, weight loss, diarrhea, and colon shortening, and improving the immune regulation of intestinal microbes [15,16]. However, the mechanism of chlorogenic acid has not been fully explored. ...
Objective:
Observe the protective effect of chlorogenic acid on dextran sulfate-induced ulcerative colitis in mice and explore the regulation of MAPK/ERK/JNK signaling pathway.
Methods:
Seventy C57BL/6 mice (half males and half females) were randomly divided into 7 groups, 10 in each group: control group (CON group), UC model group (UC group), and sulfasalazine-positive control group (SASP group), chlorogenic acid low dose group (CGA-L group), chlorogenic acid medium dose group (CGA-M group), chlorogenic acid high dose group (CGA-H group), and ERK inhibitor + chlorogenic acid group (E+CGA group). The effects of chlorogenic acid on UC were evaluated by colon mucosa damage index (CMDI), HE staining, immunohistochemistry, ELISA, and Western blot. The relationship between chlorogenic acid and MAPK/ERK/JNK signaling pathway was explored by adding ERK inhibitor.
Results:
The UC models were established successfully by drinking DSS water. Chlorogenic acid reduces DSS-induced colonic mucosal damage, inhibits DSS-induced inflammation, oxidative stress, and apoptosis in colon, and reduces ERK1/2, p -ERK, p38, p-p38, JNK, and p-JNK protein expression. ERK inhibitor U0126 reversed the protective effect of chlorogenic acid on colon tissue.
Conclusion:
Chlorogenic acid can alleviate DSS-induced ulcerative colitis in mice, which can significantly reduce tissue inflammation and apoptosis, and its mechanism is related to the MAPK/ERK/JNK signaling pathway.
... The concentration and duration of DSS administration determine the severity of the symptoms [5]. An improved model of low-dose DSS-induced IBD in rats was necessary because high-dose DSS at concentrations of 2% and greater in the drinking water for short periods of 5-7 days induced acute severe IBD in mice and rats [5,[13][14][15]. Further, most studies tested prevention of IBD by interventions rather than reversal of symptoms [3]. ...
Background:
Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is an important cause of chronic disability in humans.
Methods:
We characterized a model of chronic IBD in young male Wistar rats by administering dextran sodium sulfate (DSS: 0%, 0.25%, 0.5%, or 1% in drinking water) for six weeks, with 0.5% DSS for twelve weeks, following DSS cessation or together with treatment with sulfasalazine for the last 6 weeks. We measured gastrointestinal characteristics including stool consistency, blood in stools, small intestine and colon length, intestinal transit and permeability, and gut microbiota, as well as extra-intestinal parameters including oral glucose tolerance, systolic blood pressure, fat and lean mass, and left ventricular stiffness.
Results:
At 6 weeks, 0.25-1% DSS produced gastrointestinal changes as diarrhea and blood in stools. At 12 weeks, 0.5% DSS produced chronic and sustained gastrointestinal changes, with marked infiltration of inflammatory cells throughout the gastrointestinal tract and crypt distortion. Firmicutes increased and Bacteroidetes and Actinobacteria decreased in DSS-treated rats. Changes were reversed by DSS cessation or sulfasalazine treatment. Gastrointestinal permeability and extra-intestinal parameters did not change, so DSS changes were limited to the gastrointestinal tract.
Conclusion:
Chronic 0.5% DSS produces selective and reversible gastrointestinal changes, providing an improved chronic model in rats that mimics human IBD for testing new interventions.
The burden of metabolic disorders is alarmingly increasing globally. On the other hand, sustainability is the key project of the 21st century. Natural products offer a coherent option for the complementary management of both these challenges. Ficus carica (FC), commonly known as the fig fruit, has an experimentally proven potency for the modulation of cell cycle, immunity, inflammation, metabolism, and oxidative stress. Here, we review the potential of FC-derived products (FCDP) in slowing down the progression of cancers, acute/chronic inflammation-related conditions, infections, metabolic disorders, toxicities, neurological and neuromuscular diseases, gastrointestinal disorders, vascular diseases, and skin-stressing conditions, as well as, in boosting normal healthy functions of the endocrine, immune, metabolic, and nervous systems. It reveals a variety of cellular and molecular targets for FCDP: cytokines (TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6, IL-10, IL-12, IL-18, IFN-γ), chemokines (CCL2), other inflammatory mediators (CRP, PGE2), immune receptors (TLR-2, TLR-4, FcεRI), oxidative stress-related markers (SOD, GSH, MDA, GPx, catalase, ROS, NO, protein carbonyls), kinases (MAPKs, hexokinase, G6Pase, FBPase, PEPCK, Akt, AMPK, GSK3, CDKs), other enzymes (COX-2, iNOS, MMPs, caspases), growth factors/receptors (VEGF, EGFR), hormones (DHEAS, prolactin, GnRH, FSH, LH, estradiol, DHT, insulin), cell death-related markers (Bcl-2, Bax, Bak, FasL, gasdermins, cytochrome C), glucose transporter protein (Glut4), and transcription factors (NF-κB, HNF-4α, Foxo, PGC-1α, PPAR-γ, C/EBP-α, CREB, NFATC1, STAT3). FCDP cause both activation and inhibition of AMPK, MAPK, and NF-κB signaling to confer condition-specific advantages. Such a broad-range activity might be attributed to different mechanisms of action of FCDP in modulating functions within the classical immunometabolic system, but also beyond.
In recent years, there is a growing interest in nutraceutical-rich functional foods for promoting human health. Wild fruits and berries are excellent sources of phytochemicals even though the most deeply studied are the polyphenolic compounds, among them, the major ones such as flavonoids, anthocyanins, or tannins. This review aimed to comprehensively analyze the currently available literature on wild edible fruits and berries, since these fruits are characterized for their high content of polyphenolic compounds. Moreover, both intrinsic (ripening and genetic variability) and extrinsic (environmental conditions: habitat, light, temperature) factors where considered since they affect the polyphenolic content in these fruits. Besides, the therapeutic potential of berries for treating human diseases was assessed through the revision of in vivo and in vitro assays and clinical studies, having in mind that most of these effects are exerted due to their antioxidant capacity. Furthermore, recent challenges and future trends on the research and utilization of wild fruits and berries were addressed to complete the overview of this sustainable source of natural ingredients. Finally, ScienceDirect, Scopus, and Google Scholar were the databases used for the compilation of the information present in this review, selecting the more recent studies and comparing from a critical point of view, the information found. Thus, this review compiled information of berries regarding their polyphenolic content and the variations this suffer depending on different variables; the potential use of the berries for a therapeutic application; and the trends and challenges that the use of berries faces after the research done.
Abstract: Background: Ficus carica is a plant belonging to the family Moraceae, popularly known as ‘Opoto’ in Southwest Nigeria. It is used in folk medicine as an emollient, demulcent, laxative and galactogogue. However, these claims need to be scientifically evaluated. In this study, the effects of oral administration of the aqueous leaf extract of Ficus carica L. on gastric acid acidity and intestinal motility were studied in laboratory rats. Objectives: The objectives of this study are to evaluate the effect of aqueous leaf extracts of Ficus carica on gastric acid secretion and intestinal motility in the laboratory rats. Method: The research was divided into two phase; gastric acid secretion and gastric motility studies. A total of forty-two male rats used for this study were divided into two groups; group for gastric secretion study (10 rats) and those rats for intestinal motility study (32 rats). The groups were further divided into control and extract treated group and the latter were gavaged with 2.0 mg/kg of the extract daily for three week prior to the assay while the control group received equal volume of distilled for the duration of the study. Animals were fasted overnight before the day of the test. The motility study was carried out using the activated charcoal method while the effect on gastric acid secretion was carried out by gastric effluent titration method at basal rate and after the administration of histamine and histamine receptor blocker respectively. Results: Aqueous Ficus carica L. leaf extracts significantly reduced gastric acidity while reducing the gastrointestinal transit time with increased peristaltic index. Conclusion: Aqueous leaf extract of Ficus carica reduced the acidity of the gastric secretion while increasing the motility. This extract may further be explored for possible development of drugs for treating gastric ulcer and constipation.
KIU Journal of Health Sciences.
Phenolic compounds are well-known bioactive compounds in fruits and vegetables that could have a protective role against cancers, cardiovascular diseases, and other diseases. This review presents the main phenolic compounds found in fresh and dried figs from different countries and describes the analytical methods used to identify and discuss their biological activities. Figs are an essential part of the Mediterranean diet, regarded as one of the healthiest eating habits and linked to longevity. The levels of phenolic compounds in figs are influenced by factors such as the maturity stage, color and the part of fruit, drying process, and the variety’s region. For example, the fig varieties with dark skin contain higher polyphenols, flavonoids, flavonols, anthocyanins, and proanthocyanidins and exhibit better antioxidant activity than light ones. On the other hand, fruit skin contributes most to the amount of phenolic compounds compared to fruit pulp. The ripening stage affects the concentrations of phenolic compounds in figs; the maximum has been found in ripe fruit. The biological traits of figs are highly correlated with their amount of phenolic compounds, including antioxidant, antibacterial, acetyl cholinesterase inhibition, antifungal, anti-helminthic, hepatoprotective, antidiabetic, and anticarcinogenic activities. Future studies should focus on the identification and purification of the predominant bioactive phenolics involved in the beneficial effects of the fig extracts, their application in the pharmaceutical field to prevent lifestyle-related diseases, and the food industry as functional food ingredients.Keywords
Ficus carica
Phenolic compoundsChemical characterizationBiological activitiesHealth-promoting effect
Kur'an'ın 95. Suresine adını veren incir, gözyaşı damlasına benzeyen eşsiz bir meyvedir. Yüce Yaratıcının onun üzerine yemin etmesi, çok kıymetli bir besin olduğuna işaret için olsa gerektir. Prof. Dr. Zafer AYVAZ
Objectives
To evaluate the pathogenic role of colitis in experimental periodontitis and explore the potential serum metabolites of colitis exacerbating experimental periodontitis in mice model. Design:
C57BL/6 mice were divided into four groups (five mice in each group), including control, periodontitis, colitis and colitis+periodontitis group. Mice treated with 1.5% dextran sulfate sodium for 14 days to induce colitis. On the seventh to fourteenth days, the experimental periodontitis model was established by installing a bacterially retentive ligature between two molars. Histological alteration of periodontium and colon was observed by hematoxylin and eosin staining. Tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase staining and micro-computed tomography was applied to evaluate alveolar bone loss. Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry was used to characterize serum metabolic profiles.
Results
Mice in colitis+periodontitis group displayed increased periodontal inflammation and alveolar bone loss when compared with the mice of periodontitis group, suggesting colitis aggravated periodontitis. Metabolomics analysis combined with enrichment analysis showed that colitis significantly (P＜0.05) altered the content of compounds associated with five metabolic pathways (e.g. fatty acid biosynthesis) of periodontitis mice. Notably, colitis significantly reduced the level of serum metabolites that inhibited the formation of osteoclasts (e.g. oleic acid) or anti-inflammatory metabolites (e.g. palmitoleic acid, palmitelaidic acid and chlorogenic acid) of periodontitis mice.
Conclusions
Our findings showed that colitis might aggravate periodontitis and this might be associated with alteration of serum metabolic profiles.
Ethnic pharmacological relevance
Plant materials are used as complementary and alternative therapies all over the world for the treatment of various diseases. Ulcerative colitis (UC), a chronic nonspecific inflammatory bowel disease listed as one of the modern refractory diseases by the World Health Organization, has a long course, is challenging to cure, and is prone to cause cancer. Recent years have witnessed a growing trend of applying traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) to UC.
Aim of this review
This review presents an overview of the pathogenesis of UC and reports the therapeutic effect of TCM on UC (including TCM prescriptions, single TCM, and treatments using TCM ingredients) to provide a theoretical basis for the use of TCM in treating UC.
Methods
We performed a collection and collation of relevant scientific articles from different scientific databases regarding TCM and its usefulness in treating UC. In this paper, the therapeutic effect of TCM is summarized and analyzed according to the existing experimental and clinical research.
Results
There are positive signs that TCM primarily regulates inflammatory cytokines, intestinal flora, and the immune system, and also protects the intestinal mucosa. Hence, it can play a role in treating UC.
Conclusion
TCM has a definite curative effect in the treatment of UC. It can alleviate and treat UC in a variety of ways. We should take syndrome differentiation and treatment differentiation as the basis. With the help of modern medicine, TCM's clinical curative effects can be enhanced for the treatment of UC.
The aim of this research was to quantitatively and comprehensively explore the therapeutic effects and mechanism of action of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) formulas, using Periplaneta americana as a monarch drug, against damp-heat ulcerative colitis (UC) in rats, by the application of multivariate statistical analysis. A high-sugar and high-fat diet was fed to Sprague Dawley (SD) male rats to develop the damp-heat physique. Trinitrobenzene sulfonic acid (TNBS) was then used on the damp-heat rats to induce UC. P. americana (P), Taraxacum mongolicum (T), and Poria cocos (F) have been in combination or individually adopted as ingredients in different TCM pharmaceutics to attenuate damp-heat physiques and/or to treat UC, because P. americana could promote blood circulation, nourish yin, and promote tissue regeneration, T. mongolicum has the effects on clearing heat and toxic materials, reduce swelling, and diuresis, while P. cocos possesses the function of clearing damp and promoting diuresis. Since these natural ingredients of TCM demonstrated overlapped effects against damp-heat UC, it calls the need to further illustrate the therapeutic effect and mechanism of action of P. americana as the monarch drug by comparing the effects of formulas of PT, PF, TF, and PTF. Each formula was administered by gastric lavage to four groups of randomly assigned laboratory animals for 14 consecutive days, while normal saline was given to the normal control and model control groups respectively. The damp-heat and UC indices, bio-marker levels in serum, and colonic mucosa were measured periodically, or the day after the last administration. The results of canonical correlation analysis and repeated-measures analysis of variance suggested that the therapeutic effects of formulas containing P. americana and T. mongolicum were better than those of the other formulas. The results of correspondence analysis suggested that the curative effects against damp-heat UC might be activated by reducing the expression of Interleukin-2 (IL-2) and increasing the level of transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β). The organically combined use of multiple multivariate statistical methods allowed comprehensive evaluation of the therapeutic effects of TCM formulas against chronic diseases with complex pathogenic factors.
Fig seeds are considered to be significantly responsible for the bioactive compounds of fig. In this study, the effects of six different solvents (100% acetone, 100% methanol, 100% ethanol, 50% (v/v) aqueous acetone, 50% (v/v) aqueous methanol and 50% (v/v) aqueous ethanol) with changing polarities on the polyphenol contents and antioxidant capacities of fig seed extracts were investigated. Total polyphenol contents (TPCs), total flavonoid contents (TFCs), antioxidant capacities (DPPH and FRAP assays) and polyphenol compositions of the extracts were evaluated. The results indicated that fig seeds extracted by 50% (v/v) aqueous methanol exhibited the highest TPC (714 mg GAE/kg DM), TFC (312 mg (+)-CE/kg DM), DPPH (41.6%) and FRAP (8504 mg FeSO4/kg DM) values. Also, same extract had the maximum values of chlorogenic acid (131.9 mg/kg DM), (-)-epicatechin (166.4 mg/kg DM) and rutin (50.7 mg/kg DM) (p<0.05). The extractability of syringic acid was determined to be highest with 50% aqueous methanol (8.03 mg/kg DM) and 50% aqueous ethanol (8.13 mg/kg DM) (p>0.05). The psoralen extractability was highest in 50% aqueous acetone (53.0 mg/kg DM) and 50% aqueous ethanol (54.0 mg/kg DM) (p>0.05). High correlations among TPCs, TFCs, antioxidant capacities and individual polyphenols of fig seed extracts were also observed.
The Ficus carica polysaccharide (FCPS) components from the common fig fruit have been demonstrated to exhibit antioxidant and immunity-enhancing activities. However, it is unclear whether it could prevent the ulcerative colitis development. Here, we reported that 5 weeks orally administrated FCPS (150-300 mg/kg bw) significantly prevented the DSS induced-colitis in C57BL/6J mice by improving the colon length and suppressing the infiltration of the inflammatory cells in the gut. FCPS treatment protected the goblet cells, elevated the expression of tight junction protein Claudin-1, and suppressed the formation of cytokines including TNF-α and IL-1β. The FCPS supplementation significantly reformed the gut microbiome by enhancing the abundance of S24-7, Bacteroides, and Coprococus, and suppressing the abundance of Escherichia and Clostridium in genus level. Consistently, the formation of the beneficial microbial metabolites, short chain fatty acids, especially the acetate and butyrate, were improved in the FCPS-treated colitis mice. The correlation analysis indicated that protective effects of FCPS on the ulcerative colitis might be highly correlated to the microbiota composition changes and the formation of SCFAs. In conclusion, these results indicated that FCPS supplementation could be a promising nutritional strategy for inflammatory bowel diseases and the gut microbes play essential roles in providing these beneficial effects.
Ulcerative colitis (UC), a chronic inflammatory disease affecting the colon, has a rising incidence worldwide. The known pathogenesis is multifactorial and involves genetic predisposition, epithelial barrier defects, dysregulated immune responses, and environmental factors. Nowadays, the drugs for UC include 5-aminosalicylic acid, steroids, and immunosuppressants. Long-term use of these drugs, however, may cause several side effects, such as hepatic and renal toxicity, drug resistance and allergic reactions. Moreover, the use of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) in the treatment of UC shows significantly positive effects, low recurrence rate, few side effects and other obvious advantages. This paper summarizes several kinds of active compounds used in the experimental research of anti-UC effects extracted from TCM, mainly including flavonoids, acids, terpenoids, phenols, alkaloids, quinones, and bile acids from some animal medicines. It is found that the anti-UC activities are mainly focused on targeting inflammation or oxidative stress, which is associated with increasing the levels of anti-inflammatory cytokine (IL-4, IL-10, SOD), suppressing the levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6, IL-8, IL-23, NF-κB, NO), reducing the activity of MPO, MDA, IFN-γ, and iNOS. This review may offer valuable reference for UC-related studies on the compounds from natural medicines.
The phytochemical composition and the effect of the green and ripe Opuntia ficus-indica juice on some gastrointestinal (GI) physiological parameters such as stomach emptying and small-intestinal motility and permeability were determined in rats administered multiple concentrations of the prickly pear juice (5, 10, and 20 mL kg-1, b.w., p.o.). Other separate groups of rats were received, respectively; sodium chloride (0.9%, b.w., p.o.), clonidine (α-2-adrenergic agonist, 1 mg kg-1, b.w., i.p.), yohimbine (α-2-adrenergic antagonist, 2 mg kg-1, b.w., i.p.), and loperamide (5 mg kg-1, b.w., p.o.). In vivo reverse effect of juice on GI physiological parameters was investigated using a charcoal meal test, phenol-red colorimetric method, loperamide-induced acute constipation, and castor oil-caused small-bowel hypersecretion. However, the opposite in vitro influence of juice on intestinal permeability homeostasis was assessed by the Ussing chamber system. Mature prickly pear juice administration stimulated significantly and dose dependently the GI transit (GIT; 8-26%) and gastric emptying (0.9-11%) in a rat model. Conversely, the immature prickly pear juice reduced gastric emptying (7-23%), GIT (10-28%), and diarrhea (59-88%). Moreover, the standard drugs have produced their antagonistic effects on GI physiological functions. The permeability of the isolated perfused rat small-intestine has a paradoxical response flowing prickly pear juices administration at diverse doses and maturity grade. Most importantly, the quantitative phytochemical analyses of both juices showed a different composition depending on the degree of maturity. In conclusion, the prickly pear juice at two distinct phases of maturity has different phytochemical characteristics and opposite effects on GI physiological actions in rat.
This study was conducted to compare the effects of juice and seeds on gastric emptying, small-bowel motility and intestinal ion transport. Separate groups of rats were randomized to receive NaCl, increasing doses of juice (5, 10, and 20 mL/kg, b.w.) or seeds aqueous extract (100, 200, and 400 mg/kg, b.w.). Simultaneously, two other groups were received, the reference drugs; clonidine (1 mg/kg) and yohimbine (2 mg/kg). The charcoal meal was used as a suspension for gastrointestinal motility test. The purgative action of juice was confirmed using the loperamide (5 mg/kg, p.o.) induced constipation. To evaluate the antisecretory effect, we were used as a hypersecretion agent, the castor oil at the dose of 5 mL/kg. Compared to the control and standard groups, we were showed that the prickly pear has an opposite effect on small-bowel motility and gastric emptying. Indeed, the juice at various doses has a laxative effect of gastrointestinal transit in healthy and constipated-rats. However, the aqueous extract of the seeds leads to a reduction of motility in normal rats which gives it a remarkable antidiarrhoeal activity, a notable intestinal fluid accumulation decline and electrolyte concentrations reestablishment. Moreover, orally juice administered at different doses accelerated the stomach emptying time in contrast to the seeds aqueous extract. More importantly, a significant variation in the phytochemical constituents levels between juice and seeds was found. These findings confirm the reverse therapeutic effects of this fruit in the treatment of digestive disturbances such as difficulty stool evacuation and massive intestinal secretion, likewise, the gastric emptying process perturbation.
Diarrhea pathophysiology and constipation are multifactorial gastrointestinal (GI) disorders characterized by intestinal peristalsis disruption of and an irregularity in secretion/absorption process. Oxidative stress, as an imbalance in prooxidants/antioxidants, has recently been recognized as a significant player in these GI disturbances. In this respect, numerous studies were performed and have shown that the deleterious effects on GI tract were accompanied by accumulation of oxidants and depletion of antioxidant system. Antioxidant remedy is necessary in scavenging free radicals and reactive oxygen species preventing oxidative stress-induced GI interruptions.
The aim of this study was to evaluate in vivo both the anti-Helicobacter and the gastric-relaxing effects of AD-lico/Healthy Gut™ in rat models. AD-lico/Healthy Gut™ is a specially prepared commercial formulation of Glycyrrhiza inflata extract that is under clinical development for indications of gastrointestinal disease and inflammatory bowel disease. In the current study, the oral administration of AD-lico/Healthy Gut™ significantly reduced mucosal damage from Helicobacter pylori in rats and decreased the expression of the inflammatory markers iNOS and COX-2 in the test cells. AD-lico/Healthy Gut™ also reduced mucosal damage caused by water immersion stress in rats. The accelerated gastric emptying in normal rats was also seen with AD-lico/Healthy Gut™, providing relief in gastric relaxation in the test animals. The special formulation of AD-lico/Healthy Gut™ with reduced levels of component glycyrrhizin also has benefits in minimizing the potential side effects attributed to glycyrrhizin seen with similar Glycyrrhiza extracts in terms of induction of hypokalemia and muscle weakness. The preparation has a relatively high phenolic compound content relative to other methods of preparation and is indicative of lower glycyrrhizin levels. These results suggest that AD-lico/Healthy Gut™ may provide the necessary relief from a number of stomach discomfort issues faced by a large population of people.
Moringa oleifera Lam. is a tropical plant, used for centuries as food and traditional medicine. The aim of this study was to develop, validate and biochemically characterize an isothiocyanate-enriched moringa seed extract (MSE), and to compare the anti-inflammatory effects of MSE-containing moringa isothiocyanate-1 (MIC-1) with a curcuminoid-enriched turmeric extract (CTE), and a material further enriched in its primary phytochemical, curcumin (curcumin-enriched material; CEM). MSE was prepared by incubating ground moringa seeds with water to allow myrosinase-catalyzed enzymatic formation of bioactive MIC-1, the predominant isothiocyanate in moringa seeds. Optimization of the extraction process yielded an extract of 38.9% MIC-1. Phytochemical analysis of MSE revealed the presence of acetylated isothiocyanates, phenolic glycosides unique to moringa, flavonoids, fats and fatty acids, proteins and carbohydrates. MSE showed a reduction in the carrageenan-induced rat paw edema (33% at 500 mg/kg MIC-1) comparable to aspirin (27% at 300 mg/kg), whereas CTE did not have any significant effect. In vitro, MIC-1 at 1 μM significantly reduced the production of nitric oxide (NO) and at 5 μM, the gene expression of LPS-inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) and interleukins 1β and 6 (IL-1β and IL-6), whereas CEM did not show any significant activity at all concentrations tested. MIC-1 (10μM) was also more effective at upregulating the nuclear factor (erythroid-derived 2)-like 2 (Nrf2) target genes NAD(P)H:quinone oxidoreductase 1 (NQO1), glutathione S-transferase pi 1 (GSTP1), and heme oxygenase 1 (HO1) than the CEM. Thus, in contrast to CTE and CEM, MSE and its major isothiocyanate MIC-1 displayed strong anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties in vivo and in vitro, making them promising botanical leads for the mitigation of inflammatory-mediated chronic disorders.
Morusin is a prenylated flavonoid isolated from the root bark of Morus alba. Many studies have shown the ability of flavonoids to act as anti-inflammatory agents. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of morusin on experimentally colitis induced by 2,4,6-trinitrobenzensulfonic acid in Wistar rats and to compare it with sulfasalazine, a drug conventionally used in the treatment of inflammatory bowel disease. Morusin was administered by gavage at doses of 12.5, 25, or 50 mg/kg/day for five days. The colonic tissue was evaluated macroscopically, histologically, and by performing immunodetection and zymographic analysis to determine the levels of antioxidant enzymes [superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT)], interleukin (IL)-1β, and transforming growth factor (TGF)-β1 and the activities of matrix metalloproteinases (MMP) 2 and 9. The tissue damage scores were significantly reduced with increasing dose of morusin, however efficacy was not demonstrated at the highest dose. At the dose of 12.5 mg/kg, morusin exerted therapeutic effectivity similar to that of sulfasalazine (50 mg/kg). This was associated with significant reduction of TGF-β1 levels and MMP2 and MMP9 activities, and slight reduction of IL-1β. Our results suggest that morusin possesses therapeutic potential for the treatment of chronic inflammatory diseases.
The inflammatory process plays a central role in the development and progression of numerous pathological situations, such as inflammatory bowel Disease (IBD), autoimmune and neurodegenerative Diseases, metabolic syndrome, and carDiovascular Disorders. ibd s involve inflammation of the gastrointestinal area and mainly comprise Crohn's Disease (CD) and ulcerative colitis (UC). Both pathological situations usually involve recurring or bloody Diarrhea, pain, fatigue and weight loss. There is at present no pharmacological cure for CD or UC. However, surgery may be curative for UC patients. The prescribed treatment aims to ameliorate the symptoms and prevent and/or delay new painful episodes. Flavonoid compounds are a large family of hydroxylated polyphenolic molecules abundant in plants, incluDing vegetables and fruits which are the major Dietary sources of these compounds for humans, together with wine and tea. Flavonoids are becoming very popular because they have many health-promoting and Disease-preventive effects. Most interest has been Directed towards the antioxidant activity of flavonoids, evidencing a remarkable free-raDical scavenging capacity. However, accumulating evidence suggests that flavonoids have many other biological properties, incluDing anti-inflammatory, antiviral, anticancer, and neuroprotective activities through Different mechanisms of action. The present review analyzes the available data about the Different types of flavonoids and their potential effectiveness as adjuvant therapy of ibds.
The purpose of this study is to examine the gastrointestinal disorders after injection of vinblastine (2mgkg⁻¹b.w. i.v.) in rats. Animals were divided into two equal groups: Group 1 was considered as a control group (NaCl, 0.9%). Group 2 was treated with intravenous injection of vinblastine for 7 days. Loperamide (2mgkg⁻¹) was injected in a saline solution subcutaneously to induce constipation in another group of rats during the same period. Fecal parameters of the different groups have been determined. At the end of the experiment, animals were anaesthetized and sacrificed by decapitation. The intestinal mucosa specimens were examined for lipid peroxidation, sulfhydryl groups (−SH) and protein carbonylation as well as antioxidant enzyme activities and intracellular mediators. Gastrointestinal motility was realized by the test meal (10% charcoal in 5% gum arabic). In result, statistically significant decreases in the fecal number and water content collected during 24h were detected in the vinblastine group, but less important than loperamide control group. The animals treated with vinblastine, showed also a significant decrease (13%) of GIT, lower than that of loperamide (34%). The intestinal tissues from vinblastine-treated rats were showed a significant increase in lipoperoxydation and H2O2 production as well as a significant depletion of enzymatic and non-enzymatic antioxidants. Added to that, a disruption of intracellular iron and calcium levels was observed. Therefore, the present study provide the first strong evidence that vinblastine induced numerous disruptions in gastrointestinal which are related to oxidative stress and intracellular mediators disorders.
Background
Korean cactus Cheonnyuncho (Opuntia humifusa) is rich in pectin, phenols, flavonoids, and minerals such as calcium and phosphorus. Some Koreans drink Cheonnyuncho juice prepared by grinding Cheonnyuncho with water. Cheonnyuncho is well known for its functional properties and antioxidant effects, but its effect on constipation has not been sufficiently studied. Methods
Loperamide (2 mg/kg) was injected subcutaneously to induce constipation in rats. The animals were divided into four groups: a normal group (NOR), constipation control group (CON), and two constipation groups receiving the Cheonnyuncho extract (CE) at two different concentrations in drinking water, 3% (L-CE group) and 6% (H-CE group), for 25 days. ResultsThe fecal pellet numbers of NOR and L-CE were significantly increased from 35.67 ± 2.09 (CON) to 50.60 ± 1.38 and 46.50 ± 2.91 after loperamide treatment, respectively (p < 0.05). The water content of fecal excretions was significantly enhanced in only the L-CE group (33.05 ± 0.49%) compared to control (23.38 ± 1.26%) (p < 0.05) after loperamide treatment. The oral intake of CE (L-CE and H-CE groups) significantly increased levels of the intestinal transit ratio (45.25 ± 1.86% and 41.05 ± 2.47%, respectively) compared to the CON group (32.15 ± 2.05%) (p < 0.05). Treatment with the low concentration of CE significantly increased fecal levels of acetic, propionic, butyric, and valeric acids, as well as the total short-chain fatty acid (SCFA) concentration. Histological analyses revealed that the thickness of the distal colon also increased in the CE-treated groups in a dose-dependent manner. Conclusions
Constipation decreased when CE was fed to the rats. In particular, the fecal pellet number and water content, as well as histological parameters such as distal colon thickness, improved. The CE treatment also increased the fecal SCFA content. These results show that the extract of Cheonnyuncho (O. humifusa) alleviated the symptoms of loperamide-induced constipation.
Objective:
To assess the effectiveness of acupuncture for the treatment of functional constipation
(FC).
Methods:
The literature was searched for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing acupuncture
with medical treatment; no medical treatment, placebo acupuncture, and sham acupuncture in patients
with FC were searched. Data were extracted by two independent reviewers using standard data
extraction forms. Risk of bias for each RCT was assessed using a modified Oxford 5-point quality
scale. Data were pooled according to intervention and treatment course. Parameters evaluated included
effectiveness/invalidity, Cleveland Clinic score (CCS), colon transit time (CTT) and adverse effects.
Results:
Nineteen studies involving 1679 participants were eligible for inclusion; of these studies,
16 were published in Chinese and three in English. Risks of bias were high. Acupuncture was significantly
superior to medication therapy in short-term (effectiveness/invalidity, P = 0.0009; CCS, P = 0.02)
and long-term (effectiveness/invalidity, P = 0.004; CCS, P = 0.04; CCT, P < 0.0001) effectiveness. A
short treatment course of less than 15 days was sufficient. The likelihood of adverse effects was significantly
lower for acupuncture than for medication therapy (P = 0.002).
Conclusion:
Compared with medication, acupuncture was more effective and had a lower adverse
effect rate in the treatment of FC. A short treatment course of two weeks was sufficient for a
good effect. However, the poor quality of the included trials indicates the need for well-designed
RCTs, including adequate sample size and a reasonable placebo control, to assess the effectiveness of
acupuncture for FC.
The aim of the present study is to investigate the potential protective role of Ceratonia siliqua L. against dextran sodium sulfate (DSS)-induced oxidative damage and inflammation in liver and kidney of rats. The hepatotoxicity and nephrotoxicity were induced in rats by oral administration of synthetic DSS (5%) in the drinking water for over 7 days. However, carob pods aqueous extract (CPAE; 50 and 100 mg/kg body weight) was given by oral administration for 21 days. Myeloperoxidase (MPO) activity, malondialdehyde, H2O2 content, as well as the levels of antioxidant enzymes in organs were measured to observe the possible mechanisms. As a result, the CPAE counteracted DSS-induced increase of MPO activity, lipoperoxidation, and the activity of antioxidant enzymes, such as superoxide dismutase and catalase (CAT). DSS administration increased also in the organs hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) and free iron levels, whereas the CPAE pretreatment reversed all intracellular mediator perturbations. It was concluded that the CPAE exerted a potential protective effect against DSS-induced inflammation and oxidative stress in the rat organs. Consequently, it is essential that adequate care is taken when we use carob pods for patients with hepatotoxicity and nephrotoxicity.
Objectives
Using an atropine-diphenoxylate-induced slow transit constipation (STC) model, this study explored the effects of the total glucosides of paeony (TGP) in the treatment of STC and the possible mechanisms.
Study Design
A prospective experimental animal study.
Methods
The constipation model was set up in rats with an oral gavage of atropine-diphenoxylate and then treated with the TGP. The volume and moisture content of the faeces were observed and the intestinal kinetic power was evaluated. Meanwhile, the colorimetric method and enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) were employed to determine the changes of nitric oxide (NO), nitric oxide synthase (NOS), vasoative intestinal peptide (VIP) and the P substance (SP) in the serum, respectively. The protein expressions of c-kit and stem cell factor (SCF) were assessed by immunohistochemical analysis and western blot, respectively, and the mRNA level of c-kit was measured by a reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR).
Results
The TGP attenuated STC responses in terms of an increase in the fecal volume and moisture content, an enhancement of intestinal transit rate and the reduction of NO, NOS and VIP in the serum. In addition, the c-kit, a labeling of interstitial cells of Cajal (ICC) increased at both protein and mRNA levels. SCF, which serves as a ligand of c-kit also increased at protein level.
Conclusion
The analysis of our data indicated that the TGP could obviously attenuate STC through improving the function of ICC and blocking the inhibitory neurotransmitters such as NO, NOS and VIP.
Bile acids (BAs) act as signaling molecules in various physiological processes, and are related to colonic microbiota composition as well as to different types of dietary fat and fiber. This study investigated whether guar gum and pectin—two fibers with distinct functional characteristics—affect BA profiles, microbiota composition, and gut metabolites in rats. Low- (LM) or high-methoxylated (HM) pectin, and low-, medium-, or high-molecular-weight (MW) guar gum were administered to rats that were fed either low- or high-fat diets. Cecal BAs, short-chain fatty acids (SCFA) and microbiota composition, and plasma lipopolysaccharide-binding protein (LBP) levels were analyzed, by using novel methodologies based on gas chromatography (BAs and SCFAs) and 16S rRNA gene sequencing on the Illumina MiSeq platform. Strong correlations were observed between cecal BA and SCFA levels, microbiota composition, and portal plasma LBP levels in rats on a high-fat diet. Notably, guar gum consumption with medium-MW increased the cecal amounts of cholic-, chenodeoxycholic-, and ursodeoxycholic acids as well as α-, β-, and ω-muricholic acids to a greater extent than other types of guar gum or the fiber-free control diet. In contrast, the amounts of cecal deoxycholic- and hyodeoxycholic acid were reduced with all types of guar gum independent of chain length. Differences in BA composition between pectin groups were less obvious, but cecal levels of α- and ω-muricholic acids were higher in rats fed LM as compared to HM pectin or the control diet. The inflammatory marker LBP was downregulated in rats fed medium-MW guar gum and HM pectin; these two fibers decreased the cecal abundance of Oscillospira and an unclassified genus in Ruminococcaceae, and increased that of an unclassified family in RF32. These results indicate that the molecular properties of guar gum and pectin are important for their ability to modulate cecal BA formation, gut microbiota composition, and high-fat diet induced inflammation.
Background/aims:
We previously demonstrated that anthocyanin-rich bilberry extract (ARBE) inhibits IFN-γ-induced signalling and downstream effects in human monocytic cells and ameliorates disease activity in ulcerative colitis (UC) patients. Here, we studied the molecular mechanisms of ARBE-mediated effects in vitro and by analysing colonic tissue and serum samples of UC patients treated with an oral anthocyanin-rich bilberry preparation during an open label clinical trial.
Methods:
Colon specimens obtained during an open pilot study using ARBE for the treatment of mild-to-moderate UC were analyzed by immunohistochemistry. Cytokine levels in patients' serum were quantified by ELISA. Cell culture experiments were performed using THP-1 monocytic cells.
Results:
ARBE treatment inhibited the expression of IFN-γ-receptor 2 in human THP-1 monocytic cells. Colon biopsies of UC patients who responded to the 6-week long ARBE treatment revealed reduced amounts of the pro-inflammatory cytokines IFN-γ and TNF-α. Levels of phosphorylated (activated) p65-NF-κB were reduced in these patients. Further, patients with successful ARBE treatment featured enhanced levels of Th17-cell specific cytokine IL-22 and immunoregulatory cytokine IL-10 as well as reduced serum levels of TNF-α and MCP-1, but enhanced levels of IL-17A, in contrast to patients that did not reach remission after ARBE treatment.
Conclusions:
Our data suggest a molecular mechanism underlying the anti-inflammatory effects of ARBE treatment in UC patients by modulating T-cell cytokine signalling and inhibiting IFN-γ signal transduction. These data are of particular interest, since ARBE is a promising therapeutic approach for the treatment of IBD.
The current study was performed to assess the effects of carob pod aqueous extracts (CPAE, pulp, seeds or mixture) on gastrointestinal transit (GIT) and intestinal epithelium permeability. In this aspect, male rats fasted for 16 hours were used and given by oral administration NaCl (0.9%, control group) or various doses of CPAE (50, 100 and 200 mg kg−1, b.w.). Two other groups of rats (batch tests) received clonidine (an alpha-2 adrenergic agonist, 1 mg kg−1) or yohimbine (an alpha-2 adrenergic antagonist, 2 mg kg−1). Two hours later, all animals were given a test meal containing charcoal and gum arabic in water. 30 minutes later, rats were anesthetized, a laparotomy was performed and the distance traveled by the meal compared to the total length of the small intestine was measured. Regarding the effect of CPAE on diarrhoea, the extract was administered orally to three groups of rats (ten in each group). Two other groups received normal saline (10 mL kg−1) and loperamide (10 mg kg−1) as a negative and standard group. Compared with the control group, the animals treated with the CPAE of pulp, seeds or a mixture (50% pulp and 50% seeds) of mature carob, showed a significant increase (3–25%) of GIT in a dose-dependent manner. By contrast, the CPAE of immature carob pods significantly and dose dependently decreased (3–19%) the GIT and diarrhoea (66–87%). However, clonidine and yohimbine respectively decreased (58%) and increased (30%) the GIT. More importantly, using the Ussing chamber system, we found that aqueous extracts of mature and immature carob pods significantly and dose-dependently increased or decreased intestinal epithelium permeability. The results indicate that carob possesses significant laxative and anti-diarrheal activities due to its opposite effects both on gastrointestinal propulsion and permeability. These findings confirm that the degree of maturity of carob characterized by a different phytochemical composition may be responsible for these actions.
Background:
There is evidence to support a role for angiotensin (Ang) 1-7 in reducing the activity of inflammatory signaling molecules such as MAPK, PKC and SRC. Enhanced angiotensin converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) expression has been observed in patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) suggesting a role in its pathogenesis, prompting this study.
Methods:
The colonic expression/activity profile of ACE2, Ang 1-7, MAS1-receptor (MAS1-R), MAPK family and Akt were determined by western blot and immunofluorescence. The effect of either exogenous administration of Ang 1-7 or pharmacological inhibition of its function (by A779 treatment) was determined using the mouse dextran sulfate sodium model.
Results:
Enhanced colonic expression of ACE2, Ang1-7 and MAS1-R was observed post-colitis induction. Daily Ang 1-7 treatment (0.01-0.06 mg/kg) resulted in significant amelioration of DSS-induced colitis. In contrast, daily administration of A779 significantly worsened features of colitis. Colitis-associated phosphorylation of p38, ERK1/2 and Akt was reduced by Ang 1-7 treatment.
Conclusion:
Our results indicate important anti-inflammatory actions of Ang 1-7 in the pathogenesis of IBD, which may provide a future therapeutic strategy to control the disease progression.
Inflammation and oxidative stress are a common mechanism of many gastrointestinal diseases such ulcerative colitis. Polyphenols are micronutrients with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties and may play an interesting role in the prevention of intestinal inflammation. In this context, we examined the protective effect of carob pods aqueous extract (CPAE)against dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-induced sub-acute experimental ulcerative colitisin rat model. Colon inflammation was induced in rat by oral administration of synthetic DSS (5%) in the drinking water during 7 days. However,CPAE (50 and 100mg/Kg, b.w.) was given by oral administration for 21 days. At the end of the experimental period, colon and plasma were taken for lipid peroxidation and cytokines determination as well asmyeloperoxidase (MPO) and antioxidant enzyme activities. Our result indicated that DSS caused severe histopathological damages in the colon mucosa. The lesions were associated with increased MPO activity, cytokines and oxidative damage. The CPAE treatment restored dose-dependent body weight gain, prevented colonic shortening and reduced the colonic severity lesions and biochemical alterations. It was concluded that CPAE consumption limits DSS-induced colonic damage in rats. The antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of polyphenols may play a role in this effect.
As a seasonal food, fig represents an important constituent of the Mediterranean diet, which is considered one of the healthiest and associated with longevity. In Tunisia, figs are consumed either fresh or dried or used for jam production. The paper reports the composition of some quality characteristics of ten cultivars of dried fig Ficus carica L. (Bayoudi, Khadouri, Jbeli, Hammouri, Safouri, Rogabi, Tayouri jouied, Sawoudi, Zidi and Sawoudi bedri) cultivated in Medenine, a city of southern Tunisia. These ten phenotypes had different colours white, red, yellow and black. The main soluble sugars of experimental cultivars were separated, identified and quantified using High Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC). While there is little information about the phenolic acids of dried fig, we try to quantify these compounds in these Tunisian dried figs. Total polyphenol content was determined by using the Folin-Ciocalteu assay. According to the results, fructose was found as the most abundant sugar and the highest quantity was detected in Sawoudi bedri. Polyphenol content was found in a very high quantity and fluctuated from 121.3 mg GAE/100g to 277.2 mg GAE/100g respectively for Bayoudi and Sawoudi.
Research has proved a relationship between functional components of food, health and well-being. Thus, functional components of food can be effectively applied in the treatment and prevention of diseases. They act simultaneously at different or identical target sites with the potential to impart physiological benefits and promotion of wellbeing including reducing the risk of cancer, cardiovascular disease, osteoporosis, inflammation, type II diabetes, and other chronic degenerative diseases, lowering of blood cholesterol, neutralization of reactive oxygen species and charged radicals, anticarcinogenic effect, low-glycaemic response, etc. Previously, it was thought that functional ingredients such as non-starchy carbohydrates including soluble and insoluble dietary fibres, fucoidan; antioxidants including polyphenols, carotenoids, tocopherols, tocotrienols, phytosterols, isoflavones, organosulphur compounds; plant sterols and soy phytoestrogens occur only in plant foods (whole grains, fruits, and vegetables) as phytochemicals. However, probiotics, prebiotics, conjugated linolenic acid, long-chain omega-3, −6 and −9-polyunsaturated fatty acids, and bioactive peptides have proved that functional components are equally available in animal products such as milk, fermented milk products and cold-water fish. The way a food is processed affects its functional components. Many processing techniques have been found to lower the concentration of functional components in food. Conversely, other techniques were found to increase them. Hence, in a time when the role of a healthy diet in preventing non-communicable diseases is well accepted, the borderline between food and medicine is becoming very thin.
In order to investigate the effect of sun-drying on the health-related constituents as well as bioaccessibility of figs; total phenolics, flavonoids, proanthocyanidins, anthocyanins, antioxidant capacity and major phenolic compounds were determined for two commercial figs (Sarilop and Bursa siyahi) with different color (yellow and purple). In addition, release of phytochemical was studied by simulating of in vitro gastrointestinal digestion. In both varieties, rutin and cyanidin-3-rutinoside were confirmed as the major flavonol and anthocyanin, respectively. For both varieties, analyses of total phenolics, anthocyanins and antioxidant activity revealed lower levels after sun-drying. On the other hand, 75 and 71% higher total flavonoid and proanthocyanidin contents were observed for yellow figs.
Constipation is a common problem in males and females. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the laxative effects of fermented rice extract (FRe) on rats with loperamide-induced constipation. FRe (100, 200 and 300 mg/kg) was administered orally once per day for six days following 1 h loperamide treatment. The laxative effects of FRe were compared with those of sodium picosulfate (S. picosulfate). Following the induction of constipation in the rats, a marked decrease was observed in the fecal pellet number and water content discharged over 24 h, the surface mucus thickness in the colonic lumen, intestinal charcoal transit ratio, thickness of the colonic mucosa and the number of mucus-producing cells, while an increase was observed in the number of fecal pellets remaining in the colonic lumen and their mean diameter, as compared with the normal vehicle control rats. These conditions were significantly alleviated following the administration of the three doses of FRe when compared with the loperamide control group. However, the alleviating effects were lower than those of S. picosulfate, with the exception of the intestinal charcoal transit ratio. Similar effects on the intestinal charcoal transit ratio were detected for the three doses of FRe when compared with the S. picosulfate-treated rats. In conclusion, the results indicated that FRe exhibits a laxative effect without causing diarrhea, as compared with sodium picosulfate; thus, FRe may be effective as a complementary medicine in patients suffering from lifestyle-induced constipation.
Context:
Ficus carica Linn (Moraceae) has been used in traditional medicine for a wide range of ailments related to digestive, endocrine, reproductive, and respiratory systems. Additionally, it is also used in gastrointestinal tract and urinary tract infection.
Objective:
This review gathers the fragmented information available in the literature regarding morphology, ethnomedicinal applications, phytochemistry, pharmacology, and toxicology of Ficus carica. It also explores the therapeutic potential of Ficus carica in the field of ethnophytopharmacology.
Materials and methods:
All the available information on Ficus carica was compiled from electronic databases such as Academic Journals, Ethnobotany, Google Scholar, PubMed, Science Direct, Web of Science, and library search.
Results:
Worldwide ethnomedical uses of Ficus carica have been recorded which have been used traditionally for more than 40 types of disorders. Phytochemical research has led to the isolation of primary as well as secondary metabolites, plant pigment, and enzymes (protease, oxidase, and amylase). Fresh plant materials, crude extracts, and isolated components of Ficus carica have shown a wide spectrum of biological (pharmacological) activities.
Conclusion:
Ficus carica has emerged as a good source of traditional medicine for the treatment of various ailments such as anemia, cancer, diabetes, leprosy, liver diseases, paralysis, skin diseases, and ulcers. It is a promising candidate in pharmaceutical biology for the development/formulation of new drugs and future clinical uses.
Matricaria recutita L. (Chamomile) has been widely used in the Tunisian traditional medicine for the treatment of digestive system disorders.
The present work aims to investigate the protective effects of chamomile decoction extract (CDE) against castor oil-induced diarrhea and oxidative stress in rats.
The antidiarrheal activity was evaluated using castor oil-induced diarrhea method. In this respect, rats were divided into six groups: Control, Castor oil, Castor oil+ Loperamide (LOP) and Castor oil+ various doses of CDE. Animals were per orally (p.o.) pre-treated with CDE during one hour and intoxicated for 2 or 4 hours by acute oral administration of castor oil.
Our results showed that CDE produced a significant dose-dependent protection against castor oil-induced diarrhea and intestinal fluid accumulation. On the other hand, we showed that diarrhea was accompagned by an oxidative stress status assessed by an increase of malondialdehyde (MDA) level and depletion of antioxidant enzyme activities as superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT) and glutathione peroxidase (GPx). Castor oil also increased gastric and intestinal mucosa hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) and free iron levels. Importantly, we showed that chamomile pre-treatment abrogated all these biochemical alterations.
These findings suggested that chamomile extract had a potent antidiarrheal and antioxidant properties in rats confirming their use in traditional medicine.
The phenolic fraction of plant extracts has been linked to their antioxidant capacity and antimicrobial activity. In the present paper, RP-HPLC with UV detection was employed to distinguish phenolic compounds from the other constituents of the plants examined. The phenolic substances were identified and quantified after comparison with reference standards. A GC–MS method is also presented for characterization of different phenolics as trimethylsilyl derivatives. The antioxidant capacity was determined, in dried plants and in their methanol extracts, with the Rancimat test using sunflower oil as substrate. Both pulverized plants and extracts showed antioxidant capacity. Total phenolic content in the extracts was determined spectrometrically applying the Folin-Ciocalteu assay. It ranged from 2.9 to 28.2 mg gallic acid/100 g dry sample. Antimicrobial activity of the extracts against selected microorganisms was also investigated.
The major polyphenols in grape seed have been shown to have beneficial health effects in the prevention of dyslipidemia and cardiovascular diseases. In this present study, we investigated the cholesterol-lowering activity of three major polyphenolic compounds found in grape seed. The results showed that gallic acid, catechin, and epicatechin significantly inhibited pancreatic cholesterol esterase in a concentration-dependent manner. Moreover, they bound to taurocholic acid, taurodeoxycholic acid, and glycodeoxycholic acid at levels ranging from 38.6% to 28.2%. At the concentration of 0.2 mg/mL, gallic acid, catechin, and epicatechin reduced the formation of cholesterol micelles 27.26 ± 2.17%, 11.88 ± 0.75%, and 19.49 ± 3.71%, respectively. These findings clearly demonstrate that three major polyphenolic compounds present in a particular grape seed have cholesterol-lowering activity by inhibiting pancreatic cholesterol esterase, binding of bile acids, and reducing solubility of cholesterol in micelles which may result in delayed cholesterol absorption.
The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of ginger extract on delayed gastric emptying, developing ventilator-associated pneumonia, and clinical outcomes in adult respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS).
Thirty-two ARDS patients who were dependent on mechanical ventilation and fed via nasogastric tube were studied. After enrollment, patients were randomized to 2 groups. The control group received 1 g of coconut oil as placebo, and the study group received 120 mg of ginger extract. The amount of feeding tolerated at the first 48 hours of feeding, amount of feeding tolerated during the entire study period, nosocomial pneumonia, number of intensive care unit (ICU)-free days, number of ventilator-free days, and mortality were evaluated during 21 days of intervention.
There was a significant difference between the ginger group and the control group in the amount of feeding tolerated at the first 48 hours of enteral feeding (51% vs 57%, P < .005). There was a trend toward a decrease in pneumonia in the ginger group (P = .07). The overall in-ICU mortality was 15.6%, with no significant difference in the 2 groups. The number of ventilator-free days and that of ICU-free days were lower in the control group compared with the ginger group (P = .04 and P = .02).
This study showed that gastric feed supplementation with ginger extract might reduce delayed gastric emptying and help reduce the incidence of ventilator-associated pneumonia in ARDS.
Objective
Licorice (Glycyrrhizae Radix or Liquiritiae Radix) is traditionally used to treat various diseases including inflammation and gastric ulcers. Licorice is rich in flavonoid compounds and possesses anti-inflammatory activities. To investigate the protective effects of licorice flavonoids (LFs) in both acetic acid-induced and dextran sulphate sodium (DSS)-induced ulcerative colitis (UC) mouse model and its underlying mechanism. Acute UC was induced by intra-rectal acetic acid (4% v/v) after pretreatment with LFs (100, 200, and 400 mg/kg, p.o.), 0.9% saline (20 mL/kg, p.o.) or Sulfasalazine (SASP) (600 mg/kg, p.o.) for 10 d. Quantitative analysis of chemical components of LFs was also conducted by HPLC. Our results showed that pre-treatment with LFs significantly reduced the wet weight/length ratio of colon, percentage of affected area, macroscopic and histological damage scores in acid-induced UC mice. LFs also significantly decreased the oxidative stress and pro-inflammatory cytokines, upregulated nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) pathway and downregulated nuclear transcription factor kappa B (NF-κB) pathway. At last, LFs also showed obvious antiulcer effect on the DSS-induced UC model. The major components of LFs were licochalcone A, glabrone, licoflavone, and licoflavone B. This study demonstrates that the protective effect of LFs may at least in part be due to its anti-oxidant activity through Nrf2 pathway and anti-inflammatory activity through NF-κB pathway.
Introduction:
Several research studies have reported on the pharmacological relevance of the medicinal plants used for treating various gastrointestinal disorders and controlling the dietary glucose uptake in the intestinal tract.
Methods:
Male rats were used to investigate the pharmacological effects of green oak acorn aqueous extract (GOAE) on gastrointestinal physiological parameters in vivo and in vitro. In this respect, the gastro-intestinal motility and hypersecretion essays were evaluated using a simple test meal (10% charcoal in 5% gum arabic) and castor oil induced diarrhea. However, the effect of GOAE on glucose absorption and homeostasis was assessed by the Ussing chamber system and oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) measures.
Results:
Various doses of the Quercus ilex aqueous extract (125, 250 and 500mgkg(-1)) administered orally produced a significantly dose-related inhibition of gut meal travel distance in normal rat. The highest intestinal transit reduction of 49.34% was obtained with 500mgkg(-1) compared to 58.33% caused by reference drug (clonidine, 1mgkg(-1)). In castor oil induced diarrhea in rat, Q. ilex extract reduced the frequency of defecation, fluid accumulation and electrolyte transport. These effects were associated with decreased histopathological damage and regulation of intracellular mediators disturbance in the intestinal mucosa. In addition, GOAE treatment improved glucose tolerance and significantly and dose-dependently reduced (>50%) the glucose absorption via intestinal epithelium. Phytochemical screening revealed the presence of many bioactive natural compounds.
Conclusion:
These results suggest that the extract was effective towards reducing diarrhea, fluid accumulation, electrolyte transport and glucose absorption, and no toxic effects of the GOAE presented on this study.
Carob tree, Ceratonia siliqua L., is a medicinal plant used in Tunisian traditional medicine for the treatment of the gastro-intestinal (GI) disorders. In this respect, a relatively large number of scientific publications on the carob tree have been published in recent years. Therefore, the present review was aimed to analyze the traditional uses, phytochemical constituents and pharmacological activities of Ceratonia siliqua on the GI tract. Indeed, previous investigations on the carob pods and leaves have revealed the presence of a number of compounds including high amounts of carbohydrates, dietary fibers, minerals, polyphenols, flavonoids and low amounts of protein and lipids. This plant possesses anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, anti-diarrheique, antioxidant, anti-ulcer, anti-constipation and anti-absorptive of glucose activities in the gastrointestinal tract. Based on the chemical and pharmacological characteristics of C. siliqua, we concluded that this species has beneficial preventive and therapeutic properties, especially, in digestive tract.
Context: Morella serrata L. (Myricaceae) is commonly used in South Africa to treat several diseases including constipation.
Objectives: This study investigated toxicological implications and laxative potential of the ethanol root extract of the plant.
Materials and methods: While normal control animals were placed on sterile placebo, the loperamide-constipated rats were treated with the extract at 75, 150 and 300 mg/kg doses for 7 days, and their feeding patterns and faecal properties were monitored. Gastrointestinal transit ratio and the toxicity profile of the tested doses were thereafter evaluated.
Results: The significantly increased faecal volume (192.08%), feed (63.63%), water intake (55.97%) and improved intestinal motility (95.05%) in the constipated rats following treatment with the extract (at 300 mg/kg) suggested laxative potential of the extract. The 1.5–2.0-fold normalization of the platelets, erythrocytes and leukocytes counts in the extract-treated constipated rats suggests its non-haematotoxic tendency. Furthermore, the extract (at the highest investigated dose) reversed the attenuation in the concentrations of the electrolytes (0.5–2-fold), total protein (62.12%) and albumin (55.88%) in the constipated animals as well as attenuated activities of hepatic enzymes (0.5–3.0-fold) and levels of urea (126.67%), creatinine (40.32%), cholesterol (3-fold) and triglycerides (9-fold). These further support its non-toxic and therapeutic attributes against constipation.
Conclusion: Overall, the effect exhibited by M. serrata in this study competed well with Senokot (standard drug) and proved that it may be relatively safe and with excellent laxative potential, thus, supporting its pharmacological applications in South Africa.
The edible fruit of common fig (Ficus carica) or just the fig has been traditionally used for treating hemorrhoids, insect stings, gout, ulcers, and skin infections such as warts and viruses. An ethanol extract of fig branches and its ethyl acetate, hexane, butanol, and water fractions were prepared and examined for their abilities to scavenge free radicals and inhibit inflammatory reactions. Our data showed that the ethyl acetate fraction contained the largest amount of phenolic compounds and showed the highest free radical scavenging activity. Every fraction of fig, particularly the ethanol extract and the ethyl acetate and hexane fractions, inhibited nitric oxide production in RAW264.7 cells. Tumor necrosis factor-α level also decreased significantly in all groups tested. Our results demonstrate that fig branches possessed pharmacological activity and might be useful for developing antioxidant or antiinflammatory agents.
We investigated whether changes in iron metabolism and the transferrin receptor (TRF-R) expression were involved in the antileukaemic effects of arabinoside cytosine (ara-C). Treatment with 100 n M ara-C for 48 h reduced thymidine uptake and increased the surface expression of the TRF-R on leukaemic blasts derived from 13/16 (81%) patients and on the HL-60 and U-937 cell lines. Whereas intracellular non-haem iron was strongly depleted 24 h after ara-C addition, TRF-R up-regulation and recovery of intracellular non-haem iron concentration occurred together after a longer exposure of the cultured cells to the drug. Since iron is an essential regulator of cell proliferation we have evaluated the effects of the combination between ara-C and the iron chelator desferioxamine (DSF) on the growth of HL-60 and U-937 cells. We found that desferioxamine strongly potentiated the effects of ara-C on leukaemic cell growth inhibition and apoptosis. This is the first report of a positive interaction between ara-C and an iron chelator in terms of antileukaemic effects.
The conditions and acid strength of the phenol/sulfuric acid assay were investigated to improve agreement between absorbances
obtained from different sugars. It was found that by increasing acid strength and by cooling the tubes in water after a short
reaction time, the values obtained for several sugars, including fructose and xylose, agreed, on an equimolar value, with
that for glucose.