Phytomedicine Plus最新文献

{"title":"Application of the Herbal Marker Ranking System (Herb MaRS) affords chemical markers for the standardization of medicinal plants used for male vitality herbal products","authors":"Isaac Kingsley Amponsah ,&nbsp;Flavia Yeboah Owusu ,&nbsp;Joseph Adusei Sarkodie ,&nbsp;Desmond Nkrumah ,&nbsp;Emmanuel Quaye Kontoh ,&nbsp;Anita Nana Abla Oscar Akotey ,&nbsp;Kennedy Ameyaw Baah","doi":"10.1016/j.phyplu.2025.100864","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.phyplu.2025.100864","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>The concept of chemical markers in herbal products was introduced to address the lack of standardisation, which is a major obstacle to their wider acceptance and use. However, the selection of these markers has often been based on empirical observations rather than a systematic scientific approach. This study aimed to apply the Herbal Marker Ranking System (Herb MaRS) to identify the most suitable chemical markers for constituent plants of male vitality herbal products in Ghana, for quality control purposes. A cross-sectional survey of products from pharmacies and herbal shops was conducted. A desktop survey was performed on medicinal plants on the product labels, analysing their isolated compounds, bioactivity, toxicity, commercial availability, analytical methods, and concentration of compounds in the plant materials. Herb MaRS scoring assigned 0 or 2 points for sexual enhancing activity; 1 point for symptom management; 1–3 points for concentration of compound in the plant; and 1 point each for the commercial availability of reference standards and analytical methods. Compounds with toxic effects were assigned 8 points. Those that scored 8 were deemed the most suitable markers, while those scoring 4 were regarded as adequately suitable. The selected markers include macamides (<em>Lepidium meyenii</em>), reserpine (<em>Rauvolfia vomitoria</em>), ginsenosides Rb1 (<em>Panax ginseng</em>), ginsenosides Rg1 (<em>Panax ginseng</em>), quercetin, kaempferol, bilobalide, ginkgolides (<em>Ginkgo biloba</em>), asiaticoside, madecassoside, catechin (<em>Centella asiatica</em>), 6-shogaol and 6-gingerol (<em>Zingiber officinale</em>), representing suitable compounds for standardising products incorporating these plant materials. Herb MaRS is an effective tool for selecting chemical markers to ensure quality control of herbal products.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":34599,"journal":{"name":"Phytomedicine Plus","volume":"5 4","pages":"Article 100864"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2025-11-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144903269","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Herbal tea prepared in-house shows potential immunomodulatory activity in cyclophosphamide-induced myelosuppression in rats","authors":"Sanjay M. Jachak,&nbsp;Alok Goyal,&nbsp;Shreyanshi Kulshreshtha,&nbsp;Yogita B. Tandalekar,&nbsp;Amit Shrivastava","doi":"10.1016/j.phyplu.2025.100873","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.phyplu.2025.100873","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Background</h3><div><em>Withania somnifera, Tinospora cordifolia</em> and <em>Glycyrrhiza glabra,</em> popular herbs in Ayurveda, have been reported to modulate and enhance immune functions. Similarly, <em>Ocimum sanctum, Ocimum gratissimum</em> and <em>Camelia sinensis</em> have also been used as immunomodulatory agents in Ayurvedic system of medicine. Considering the individual pharmacological properties of these six above-mentioned plants, we prepared herbal tea (HT) and evaluated its immunomodulatory effects.</div></div><div><h3>Objective</h3><div>This study aimed at establishing the immunomodulatory potential of in-house herbal tea, both <em>in vitro</em> and <em>in vivo.</em></div></div><div><h3>Material and methods</h3><div>Aqueous infusion of HT was prepared and its total phenolic and total flavonoid content was determined. Phytochemical analysis was performed using UPLC<img>HRMS. The aqueous extract was then evaluated for <em>in vitro</em> cytotoxicity and Nitric oxide release in RAW 264.7 cells. The immunomodulation potential of HT <em>in vivo</em> was studied in male/female SD rats and the model was developed by using cyclophosphamide (CTX).</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>Phytochemical analysis of HT showed the presence of gallic acid, glycyrrhizin, catechin, epigallocatechin gallate, vicenin and chlorogenic acid. HT1 (100 mg/kg) could significantly inhibit reduction in body weight and weight of thymus and spleen. Also, it improved the leucocyte count, both total and differential, phagocytic index, neutrophil adhesion and level of IL-1<em>β</em> (47.12 %) and IL-6 (44.77 %). Further, the HT prevented destruction of normal vascular organization and cellular composition of spleen and thymus tissues.</div></div><div><h3>Conclusion</h3><div>The findings of the study suggest that the immune booster herbal tea at the dose 100 mg/kg, ameliorates CTX-induced myelosuppression and immunosuppression in rats and possesses potent immunomodulatory activity.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":34599,"journal":{"name":"Phytomedicine Plus","volume":"5 4","pages":"Article 100873"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2025-11-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144911527","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Chronic excess ethanol exacerbates post-ischaemic vascular dementia in rats: the potential of Ficus platyphylla Delile to reverse motor and behavioral sequelae","authors":"Kalib Kodji ,&nbsp;Hervé Hervé Ngatanko Abaissou ,&nbsp;Serge Hermann Tchinda Defo ,&nbsp;Guillaume Camdi Woumitna ,&nbsp;Parfait Bouvourné ,&nbsp;Jorelle Linda Damo Kamda ,&nbsp;Sabine Jerye ,&nbsp;Balbine Kamleu Nkwingwa ,&nbsp;Harquin Simplice Foyet","doi":"10.1016/j.phyplu.2025.100878","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.phyplu.2025.100878","url":null,"abstract":"&lt;div&gt;&lt;h3&gt;Ethnopharmacological Relevance&lt;/h3&gt;&lt;div&gt;&lt;em&gt;Ficus platyphylla&lt;/em&gt; Delile (Moraceae) is traditionally used in Africa to treat cognitive disorders, epilepsy, and psychosis.&lt;/div&gt;&lt;/div&gt;&lt;div&gt;&lt;h3&gt;Aim of the Study&lt;/h3&gt;&lt;div&gt;To evaluate the effect of &lt;em&gt;Ficus platyphylla&lt;/em&gt; (FP) trunk bark aqueous extract on ischaemic stroke-induced vascular dementia, exacerbated by chronic and excessive ethanol exposure in adult rats.&lt;/div&gt;&lt;/div&gt;&lt;div&gt;&lt;h3&gt;Materials and Methods&lt;/h3&gt;&lt;div&gt;Fifty-eight male rats were divided into nine groups: Normal group received distilled water (DW) at 10 mL/kg (n=4), SHAM group received ethanol (EtOH) 35% at 5 mL/kg (n=10), Negative group 1 underwent the CIS procedure (n=4), Negative group 2 underwent the CIS procedure and received EtOH (n=10), positive group 1 received Aspirin at 30 mg/kg (n=6), Positive group 2 received Piracetam at 200 mg/kg (n=6) and Experimental groups (3 groups) treated with FP aqueous extract at doses of 100, 200, and 300 mg/kg (n=6 each). Rats were pretreated with ethanol for 30 days, followed by the CIS procedure. Four rats from the first four groups were randomly selected and sacrificed to validate the model. The remaining rats underwent 14 days of treatment with FP extract or reference substances. Memory impairment was evaluated using the Y-maze test (YMT) and novel object recognition test (NORT). Motor activity was assessed through the grid suspension test (GST) and Raised Beam Test (RBT). Oxidative and nitrosative stress markers, pro-inflammatory cytokine levels, and acetylcholinesterase (AchE) activity were measured in brain homogenates after euthanasia. Histological analysis of the hippocampus and cortex was conducted. Acute and sub-acute toxicological studies of FP extract were carried out in accordance with OECD guidelines (425 for acute toxicity and 407 for sub-acute toxicity).&lt;/div&gt;&lt;/div&gt;&lt;div&gt;&lt;h3&gt;Results&lt;/h3&gt;&lt;div&gt;Model validation showed that combined EtOH and CIS increased neurological scores (p &lt; 0.01), IL-1β levels (p &lt; 0.05), NO levels (p &lt; 0.01), and MDA levels (p &lt; 0.001), while reducing SOD (p &lt; 0.001) and GPx activity (p &lt; 0.05) compared to rats subjected only to the CIS procedure. Treatment with FP aqueous extract (100, 200, and 300 mg/kg) improved (p &lt; 0.001) spontaneous alternation in the YMT and discrimination index in the NORT, compared to the EtOH + CIS group. At 200 and 300 mg/kg, FP extract significantly (p &lt; 0.001) increased grip time in the GST and reduced latency time (p &lt; 0.01) in the RBT, reduced (p &lt; 0.01) AchE activity, MDA concentration, and NO levels, while enhancing SOD and GPx activity, compared to the EtOH + CIS group. The extract also decreased (p &lt; 0.001) IL-1β, TNF-α, and IL-6 levels across all doses, compared to the EtOH + CIS group. No signs of toxicity were observed at therapeutic doses of FP extract.&lt;/div&gt;&lt;/div&gt;&lt;div&gt;&lt;h3&gt;Conclusion&lt;/h3&gt;&lt;div&gt;The aqueous extract of &lt;em&gt;Ficus platyphylla&lt;/em&gt; trunk bark (100, 200, and 300 mg/kg) ","PeriodicalId":34599,"journal":{"name":"Phytomedicine Plus","volume":"5 4","pages":"Article 100878"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2025-11-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145045239","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"HR-LCMS profiling, in vitro and in silico assessment of the antibacterial activities of endophytic Bacillus amyloliquefaciens NWR-14 from Piper chaba W. Hunter","authors":"Sijo Asokan ,&nbsp;Teena Jacob ,&nbsp;Tijo Cherian ,&nbsp;Teena Merlin ,&nbsp;Vivekanandhan S ,&nbsp;Afaf A AlSosowaa ,&nbsp;Mostafa Mohammed Atiyah ,&nbsp;Faheem Q Al-Mojahid ,&nbsp;Willie J.G.M. Peijnenburg ,&nbsp;Smitha Vijayan","doi":"10.1016/j.phyplu.2025.100885","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.phyplu.2025.100885","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Background</h3><div>The rise of multidrug-resistant (MDR) pathogens such as <em>Klebsiella pneumoniae</em>, particularly those producing extended-spectrum β-lactamases (ESBL), has intensified the search for novel bioactive compounds. Medicinal plants, including <em>Piper chaba</em>, host endophytic bacteria that may serve as promising sources of antimicrobial agents.</div></div><div><h3>Purpose</h3><div>This study aimed to evaluate the antibacterial, antibiofilm, antioxidant, and cytotoxic properties of secondary metabolites derived from <em>Bacillus amyloliquefaciens</em> NWR-14, an endophyte isolated from <em>P. chaba</em>, with a focus on its activity against ESBL-producing <em>K. pneumoniae</em>.</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div><em>B. amyloliquefaciens</em> NWR-14 was isolated and identified via 16S rRNA gene sequencing. The ethyl acetate extract of this isolate was tested for antibacterial activity using MIC and MBC assays. Antibiofilm potential was assessed using crystal violet staining. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) was employed to visualize morphological changes in <em>K. pneumoniae</em>. HR-LCMS was used to putatively annotate bioactive compounds. <em>In silico</em> molecular docking was conducted to assess binding affinities to the CTX-M-15 β-lactamase enzyme. Antioxidant activity was evaluated using DPPH, FRAP, and ABTS assays, and cytotoxicity was tested on fibroblast cells.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>The extract exhibited notable antibacterial activity with a MIC and MBC of 1.56 mg/mL, and showed dose-dependent biofilm inhibition, achieving maximum effect at 6 mg/mL. SEM analysis confirmed significant cellular damage in <em>K. pneumoniae</em>. HR-LCMS analysis putatively annotated 76 compounds, including alkaloids, saponins, and phenolic acids. Molecular docking revealed strong binding affinities of compounds such as 8′-Hydroxydihydroergotamine and Licoricesaponin E2 to CTX-M-15. The extract demonstrated moderate antioxidant activity and low cytotoxicity, with over 97% cell viability in fibroblast assays.</div></div><div><h3>Conclusions</h3><div><em>B. amyloliquefaciens</em> NWR-14 shows promise as a source of bioactive secondary metabolites with antibacterial, antibiofilm, and antioxidant properties. These findings underscore the potential of endophytic bacteria from medicinal plants as reservoirs of compounds for addressing antimicrobial resistance. Further purification and structural validation of active constituents are recommended to enhance therapeutic applicability.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":34599,"journal":{"name":"Phytomedicine Plus","volume":"5 4","pages":"Article 100885"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2025-11-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145118671","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Extensive analysis of the phytochemicals, and the antioxidant, anticrystal & antibacterial activities of Dolichandrone serrulata extracts against bacteria isolated from stone niduses","authors":"Sureesa Arlee ,&nbsp;Natthida Weerapreeyakul ,&nbsp;Aroonlug Lulitanond ,&nbsp;Patcharee Boonsiri ,&nbsp;Patcharaporn Tippayawat ,&nbsp;Nattaya Sae-ung ,&nbsp;Ratree Tavichakorntrakool","doi":"10.1016/j.phyplu.2025.100910","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.phyplu.2025.100910","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Background</h3><div>Kidney stones can cause pain, infection, and kidney damage by obstructing the flow of urine. <em>Dolichandrone serrulata</em> (Wall. ex DC.) Seem. (DS) is a medicinal plant traditionally used for urinary-related conditions. Its antioxidant, antibacterial, and anticrystal properties must be considered. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the phytochemicals, antioxidant, antibacterial, and anticrystal activities of various parts of DS extracts.</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>DS aqueous extracts from bark, branches, leaves, and whole flowers were utilized. Phytochemical screening, total phenolic (TPC) and flavonoid contents (TFC), antioxidant activities (DPPH scavenging and FRAP assays) of DS extracts were performed. Bioactive compounds were analyzed by using HPLC. The DS extracts against bacteria isolated from kidney stones were investigated by the broth microdilution method. Crystallization, crystal aggregation, and cytotoxicity assays were performed.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>The different parts of DS extracts contained several types of phytochemicals, and also related TPC and TFC to antioxidant activity. Phytochemicals of several parts of DS extracts contained phenolic acids, including catechin, gallic acid, 4-hydroxybenzoic acid, and vanillic acid, as well as flavonoids, such as myricetin, quercetin, and rutin. DS extracts exhibited potent antibacterial activity against <em>Staphylococcus saprophyticus</em> and <em>Proteus mirabilis</em>, while having a lesser impact on <em>Enterococcus faecalis</em> and <em>Escherichia coli</em>. The ability of calcium oxalate to crystallize and aggregate was reduced by all DS extracts.</div></div><div><h3>Conclusion</h3><div>DS extracts exhibit promising antioxidant, antibacterial, and anticrystal activities, and phytochemicals. These investigations have provided scientific rationale to develop DS extracts as an alternative therapy for kidney stones associated with bacterial infection.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":34599,"journal":{"name":"Phytomedicine Plus","volume":"5 4","pages":"Article 100910"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2025-11-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145416007","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Distinguishing Dioscorea and Smilax species as potential Hua-Khao-Yen using DNA barcoding coupled with high resolution melting analysis (Bar-HRM)","authors":"Anocha Poommouang ,&nbsp;Theeradon Ninson ,&nbsp;Tanapat Tamee ,&nbsp;Pranee Nangngam ,&nbsp;Nattakanwadee Khumpirapang ,&nbsp;Kittisak Buddhachat","doi":"10.1016/j.phyplu.2025.100887","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.phyplu.2025.100887","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Background</h3><div>Hua-Khao-Yen (HKY) refers to a group of Thai medicinal plants valued for their pharmaceutical properties, commonly obtained from the rhizomes of five species: <em>Dioscorea birmanica, Dioscorea membranacea, Smilax corbularia, Smilax glabra</em>, and <em>Premna herbacea</em>. However, Traditional Thai HKY suggests that HKY-Nuer (red rhizome) might be <em>S. corbularia</em> and HKY-Tai (white rhizome) might be <em>S. glabra</em>, contributing to challenges in species differentiation due to morphological similarities resulting in misidentification and misuse.</div></div><div><h3>Study design</h3><div>This research investigated the species authentication of Thai medicinal plants, HKY-Nuer and HKY-Tai, by high resolution melting (HRM) analysis conjugated with DNA barcodes (Bar-HRM) validated by comparing melting profiles of verified specimens obtained from a herbarium with suspected specimens to aid in species identification based on the similarity of melting shapes.</div></div><div><h3>Purpose</h3><div>A Bar-HRM for differentiation among five possible HKY species was developed to authenticate the HKY rhizome.</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>Samples of five HKY species including known species from an herbarium and unknown species from local stores, were subjected to DNA extraction and amplification through real-time PCR. Primer sets were designed from chloroplast DNA, targeting the <em>ndhF, rbcL</em>, and <em>trnK</em> loci for HRM analysis. The shapes of the normalized melting curves were analyzed to distinguish the different plant species.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>Bar-HRM using HKYndhF(1) and HKYrbcL(1) had the highest specificity and discriminatory power, with a minimum DNA concentration requirement of 0.001 ng per reaction. Bar-HRM using both primers was applied for species authentication of HKY-Nuer and HKY-Tai from local vendors. Results revealed that the melting curves of HKY-Nuer and HKY-Tai closely resembled <em>Smilax</em> sp. (<em>S. corbularia</em> or <em>S. glabra</em>) and <em>P. herbacea</em>, respectively.</div></div><div><h3>Conclusion</h3><div>These findings displayed the potential of DNA barcoding coupled with HRM as an effective tool for the precise identification of Hua-Khao-Yen species.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":34599,"journal":{"name":"Phytomedicine Plus","volume":"5 4","pages":"Article 100887"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2025-11-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145157720","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Assessment of Gentisic acid's protective effects on scopolamine-induced Alzheimer’s disease in male mice","authors":"Marjan Gholami ,&nbsp;Shadi Sarahroodi ,&nbsp;Saeid Abbasi-Maleki","doi":"10.1016/j.phyplu.2025.100872","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.phyplu.2025.100872","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Introduction</h3><div>Alzheimer’s disease (AD) has detrimental effects on behavioral responses and antioxidant status, and the use of gentisic acid (GA) may help alleviate these adverse effects due to its antioxidant properties. We evaluated the impact of GA on behavioral and antioxidant responses in mice.</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>In this experimental-laboratory study, 36 male NMRI mice were allocated to 6 groups (<em>n</em> = 6), including control groups, scopolamine (SC; 1 mg/kg), rivastigmine (Riv; 2.5 mg/kg), and different doses of GA (112.5, 225, and 450 mg/kg). The therapies were administered orally for 14 continuous days. Behavioral tests, including the passive avoidance test (PAT), the elevated plus maze test (EPM), and the open-field test (OFT), were conducted. Finally, blood and tissue samples were collected to evaluate the changes in antioxidants, and histopathological analysis was performed sequentially.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>GA could significantly improve memory and cognitive disorders, prevent nerve damage, and maintain the weight of the mice, as well as the normal histological characteristics of the hippocampus (<em>P</em> &lt; 0.05). Additionally, GA increased serum levels of catalase (CAT) and glutathione (GSH) while decreasing nitric oxide (NO) levels. The high dose of GA (450 mg/kg) exhibited the maximum therapeutic effect.</div></div><div><h3>Conclusion</h3><div>GA may be useful in the treatment of AD due to its antioxidant effects. Nonetheless, further research is needed to determine the exact anti-Alzheimer's mechanism of this compound. This study was conducted on mice, and the results cannot be generalized to humans.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":34599,"journal":{"name":"Phytomedicine Plus","volume":"5 4","pages":"Article 100872"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2025-11-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"144893450","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"The polyphenol - altilisol from Artocarpus altilis leaves exhibits angiotensin-I converting enzyme inhibitory activity","authors":"Jalahalli M. Siddesha ,&nbsp;Mahendra Mahadevaswamy ,&nbsp;Pramod Halappa ,&nbsp;Sushma Pradeep ,&nbsp;Chandan Shivamallu ,&nbsp;Vivek Hamse Kameshwar ,&nbsp;Nanjundaswamy Vijendra Kumar ,&nbsp;Bannikuppe Sannanaik Vishwanath","doi":"10.1016/j.phyplu.2025.100901","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.phyplu.2025.100901","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Angiotensin-I converting enzyme (ACE) plays a central role in blood pressure regulation and is a key target in the treatment of hypertension. Although clinically used ACE inhibitors are effective, they are often associated with adverse effects, prompting the search for safer, plant-derived alternatives. In this study, a polyphenolic compound, altilisol (C₂₉H₃₈O₅; 2-(4-(3,7-dimethyloctyl)-2,3-dihydroxybenzylidene)-4‑hydroxy-7-propoxy-2,3-dihydro-1H-inden-1-one)propan-1-one; <em>m/z</em> 466.62) was isolated from <em>Artocarpus altilis</em> leaf extract using bioassay-guided fractionation. Altilisol exhibited potent ACE inhibitory activity in a concentration-dependent manner, with an IC₅₀ of 60.12±0.223 μM. Fluorescence-based interaction studies and molecular docking analyses confirmed that altilisol directly binds to ACE, with strong binding affinities for both the N- and C-domains. Specifically, docking predicted binding affinities of -7.8 and -5.9 kcal/mol for chains A and B of the N-domain, and -7.3 kcal/mol for the C-domain, along with key hydrogen bond interactions involving Gly382, Tyr369, Tyr338 and His353. <em>In silico</em> ADMET profiling further supported drug-likeness of altilisol, satisfying Lipinski's Rule of Five. However, its moderate bioavailability score and poor solubility suggest the need for structural optimization or advance formulation strategies to enhance its pharmacokinetic properties. Overall, altilisol emerges as a promising natural ACE inhibitor with potential therapeutic application in hypertension and related cardiovascular disorders.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":34599,"journal":{"name":"Phytomedicine Plus","volume":"5 4","pages":"Article 100901"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2025-11-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145332476","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Curcumin and Curcumin-loaded poly(caprolactone) nanoparticles restore mitochondrial function in an in vitro Parkinson’s disease model","authors":"Amy Claire Buck ,&nbsp;Liezel Smith ,&nbsp;Admire Dube ,&nbsp;Soraya Bardien ,&nbsp;Gerald J. Maarman","doi":"10.1016/j.phyplu.2025.100893","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.phyplu.2025.100893","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Background</h3><div>Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a neurodegenerative disorder characterized by motor symptoms resulting from the selective loss of dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra. Mitochondrial dysfunction is a key mechanism in idiopathic and familial PD, yet the cause is poorly understood. Paraquat (PQ) induces mitochondrial dysfunction, though its effect remains uncertain. Curcumin, a phytochemical with antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and neuroprotective properties, shows therapeutic promise for PD but has unfavorable pharmacokinetics. Nanoparticles (NPs) offer a solution by improving curcumin’s stability, bioavailability, and in providing targeted delivery.</div></div><div><h3>Purpose</h3><div>To examine mitochondrial bioenergetics in a PQ-induced PD <em>in vitro</em> model and evaluate the potential of curcumin-loaded polymeric nanoparticles (CNPs) to rescue mitochondrial function.</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>CNPs were synthesized and characterized to explore therapeutic suitability. Using the Oroboros system, mitochondrial respiration was assessed in SH-SY5Y cells treated with PQ, curcumin, CNPs, and their respective pre- and post-PQ treatment regimens. Furthermore, mitochondrial morphology was assessed.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>PQ caused a significant decrease in complex I-linked oxidative phosphorylation and the electron transfer system capacity. CNP pre- and post-PQ treatments reduced PQ-induced structural mitochondrial damage. For post-PQ treatment, CNP improved complex IV activity, while curcumin recovered PQ’s effect on N- and Gp-pathway activity. CNP pre-PQ treatment enhanced pyruvate-linked respiration and reduced ROX levels. Notably, curcumin pre-PQ treatment had the strongest protective effect, restoring multiple respiratory parameters.</div></div><div><h3>Conclusion</h3><div>The findings from this study suggest that curcumin and CNPs have potential in protecting PQ-induced reduction of respiratory states and rates in mitochondria. The findings lay a foundation for optimizing curcumin delivery using NPs for potential therapeutic applications in PD.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":34599,"journal":{"name":"Phytomedicine Plus","volume":"5 4","pages":"Article 100893"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2025-11-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145332593","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}

{"title":"Frankincense unveiled: Phytochemistry, bioactivity, and future directions","authors":"Shardendu Kumar Mishra ,&nbsp;Deepali Pandey ,&nbsp;Omkar S. Nille ,&nbsp;Shital J. Rajmane ,&nbsp;Guruprasad C. Nille","doi":"10.1016/j.phyplu.2025.100898","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.phyplu.2025.100898","url":null,"abstract":"<div><h3>Background</h3><div>Frankincense, an aromatic resin, is obtained from a deep longitudinal slit in the trunk of the <em>Boswellia</em> plant (Family - Burseraceae). It is also known as olibanum. Amongst 30 different species of <em>Boswellia</em>, only four species, namely <em>Boswellia serrata, Boswellia carteriii, Boswellia frereana</em>, and <em>Boswellia sacra</em>, have been used for the commercial production of the olibanum.</div></div><div><h3>Purpose</h3><div>This systematic review aims to offer a comprehensive overview of chemistry, phytochemistry, and biological activities of frankincense. This work provides essential information and various perspectives on frankincense for the purpose of discovering new drugs.</div></div><div><h3>Study Design</h3><div>This review examines the chemical structures and biological activities associated with frankincense, utilizing several electronic databases, including PubMed, Web of Science, Google Scholar, and other research repositories.</div></div><div><h3>Methods</h3><div>A systematic search technique was used to identify relevant databases that focus on the phytochemistry and biological activity of frankincense. A literature survey covering the last 25 years identified over 104 distinct phytochemicals from published databases.</div></div><div><h3>Results</h3><div>Our exploration has covered various dimensions, including phytochemical analysis, biological effects, production methods, clinical applications, and identified research needs. Frankincense, derived from different <em>Boswellia</em> species, reveals a rich array of approximately 104 phytochemicals from various published sources. Numerous biological effects of frankincense have been reported, including anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, immunomodulatory, anticancer, and wound healing capacities.</div></div><div><h3>Conclusion</h3><div>This systematic review covers the details of chemistry, phytochemistry, and biological activities of frankincense, and also warrants the need and scope of extensive future research.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":34599,"journal":{"name":"Phytomedicine Plus","volume":"5 4","pages":"Article 100898"},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2025-11-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145361656","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}