Current Issues in Molecular Biology

Research

18 pages, 2586 KB

Open AccessCommunication

Pyrogallol Contributes to the Anti-Allergic and Anti-Inflammatory Activities of Rosebud Extracts of Newly Crossbred Roses

by In-Jeong Kim, Khan-Erdene Tsolmon, Zolzaya Bavuu, Seung Tae Kim, Solar Sora Kim, Dongsun Park, Yeon Jae Jo, Heon-Sang Jeong and Yun-Bae Kim

Curr. Issues Mol. Biol. 2026, 48(5), 448; https://doi.org/10.3390/cimb48050448 - 25 Apr 2026

Viewed by 102

Abstract

Since chemical anti-allergic compounds have adverse effects, many investigators pay attention to relatively safe natural products. Twenty-four newly crossbred rosebuds were extracted with 80% ethanol and analyzed for polyphenols, flavonoids, tannins, proanthocyanidins, and pyrogallol (1,2,3-benzenetriol). The extracts’ antioxidative, anti-allergic, and anti-inflammatory activities were [...] Read more.

Since chemical anti-allergic compounds have adverse effects, many investigators pay attention to relatively safe natural products. Twenty-four newly crossbred rosebuds were extracted with 80% ethanol and analyzed for polyphenols, flavonoids, tannins, proanthocyanidins, and pyrogallol (1,2,3-benzenetriol). The extracts’ antioxidative, anti-allergic, and anti-inflammatory activities were assessed in vitro and in vivo. Among candidates, Lover Shy, Pretty Velvet, Ice Wing, Red Perfume, Onnuri, Jaemina Red, and Hanggina were found to possess high concentrations of antioxidant components and antioxidative activity. By comparison, Pretty Velvet, Red Perfume, Jaemina Red, Hanggina, Onnuri, and Ice Wing were highly effective in anti-allergic and anti-inflammatory activities in vitro, in parallel with their concentrations of pyrogallol. Their anti-allergic effects were confirmed in mice: The six extracts protected against Compound 48/80-induced mortality and scratching behaviors in a dose-dependent manner. The allergen-induced increases in serum IgE and histamine, as well as inflammatory cytokines, tumor-necrosis factor-α, and interleukin-1β, were remarkably attenuated following treatment with the rosebud extracts. These findings suggest that the extracts and active ingredients from cross-bred rosebuds exert anti-allergic and anti-inflammatory activities through their high levels of pyrogallol and antioxidants, and that they could be promising candidates to overcome allergic responses such as atopic dermatitis. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Role of Bioactives in Inflammation, 2nd Edition)

20 pages, 5261 KB

Open AccessArticle

Formulation of Blumea balsamifera, Anredera cordifolia, and Phyllanthus niruri Extracts as Potential Anti-Inflammatory Agents

by Siti Martinah Pajriah, Dyah Iswantini, Henny Purwaningsih, Banaz Jalil, Min Rahminiwati and Novriyandi Hanif

Curr. Issues Mol. Biol. 2026, 48(4), 405; https://doi.org/10.3390/cimb48040405 - 15 Apr 2026

Viewed by 247

Abstract

Inflammation is an immune response to foreign substances, pathogens, and cellular damage, characterized by redness, pain, and swelling. The use of synthetic anti-inflammatory drugs may cause adverse side effects, prompting the need for natural alternatives. This study aimed to evaluate the total flavonoid [...] Read more.

Inflammation is an immune response to foreign substances, pathogens, and cellular damage, characterized by redness, pain, and swelling. The use of synthetic anti-inflammatory drugs may cause adverse side effects, prompting the need for natural alternatives. This study aimed to evaluate the total flavonoid content and anti-inflammatory activity of single and combined extracts of sembung (Blumea balsamifera) [S], binahong (Anredera cordifolia) [B], and meniran (Phyllanthus niruri) [M] leaves. Extraction was performed using a 70% ethanol and water solution. Total flavonoid content was determined spectrophotometrically using quercetin as the standard. LC-HR-MS/MS results showed the presence of flavonoids, terpenoids, phenolics, and amino acids in each single extract (S, B, and M). Anti-inflammatory activity was assessed through the inhibition of albumin denaturation and the inhibition of cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2). The highest flavonoid content (35.27 mg QE/g DW) in single extracts was found in B of the ethanolic extract, while the highest flavonoid content (40.24 mg QE/g DW) in all formulations was discovered in a combination of the ethanolic extract S:B:M (1:0:1). Moreover, the ethanolic extract S:B:M (1:0:1) gave the strongest inhibition (76.47%) of the albumin denaturation at 300 µg/mL and the strongest inhibition (98.5%) of the COX-2 inhibition at 100 µg/mL. Sembung extract was highest for reducing the expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines and TNF-α was 97.66% at an extract concentration of 15.625 ppm. As for S, S:B:M (1:0:1) and S:B:M (1:1:1) can reduce the expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines, as IL-6 was 100% in 0 pg/mL at an extract concentration of 15.625 ppm. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Role of Bioactives in Inflammation, 2nd Edition)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

16 pages, 3774 KB

Open AccessArticle

Oral and Intranasal Administration of Polydeoxyribonucleotide Isolated from Porphyra sp. Ameliorates Acute Lung Injury via Suppressing Proinflammatory Cytokine Production in Mice

by Ga-Young Lee, Won Se Lee, Jisung Han and Yung-Choon Yoo

Curr. Issues Mol. Biol. 2026, 48(2), 187; https://doi.org/10.3390/cimb48020187 - 6 Feb 2026

Viewed by 694

Abstract

Acute lung injury (ALI) is a severe inflammatory condition with high mortality rates, necessitating the development of effective therapeutic agents. Polydeoxyribonucleotide (PDRN), a DNA-derived compound known for its tissue repair and anti-inflammatory properties, has gained attention as a potential therapeutic agent. However, the [...] Read more.

Acute lung injury (ALI) is a severe inflammatory condition with high mortality rates, necessitating the development of effective therapeutic agents. Polydeoxyribonucleotide (PDRN), a DNA-derived compound known for its tissue repair and anti-inflammatory properties, has gained attention as a potential therapeutic agent. However, the efficacy of PDRN derived from marine sources, particularly Porphyra sp. (laver), remains unexplored in respiratory inflammation. In this study, we investigated the protective effects of Porphyra sp.-derived PDRN (Ps-PDRN) against LPS-induced ALI in mice through two administration routes: intranasal (IN) and oral (PO). Ps-PDRN treatment significantly attenuated fever, pulmonary edema, and histopathological changes in LPS-challenged mice. Both IN and PO administration of Ps-PDRN markedly reduced proinflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6) and chemokines (MCP-1, RANTES, CXCL1, and MIP-2) in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) and serum. Comparative analysis of the two administration routes revealed distinct efficacy profiles, with oral administration demonstrating superior chemokine inhibition, while intranasal delivery showed advantages in certain cytokine suppression. Histological examination revealed that Ps-PDRN preserved alveolar architecture and reduced inflammatory cell infiltration. Furthermore, in vitro studies using RAW 264.7 macrophages demonstrated that Ps-PDRN inhibited LPS-induced production of proinflammatory cytokines, such as TNF-α and IL-6, in a dose-dependent manner. These findings suggest that Ps-PDRN exerts potent anti-inflammatory effects against ALI through both local and systemic administration routes, highlighting its potential as a novel therapeutic agent for inflammatory lung diseases. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Role of Bioactives in Inflammation, 2nd Edition)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

27 pages, 3257 KB

Open AccessArticle

Combined Prebiotic Extract of Mung Bean, Red Bean, and Fennel Improves Intestinal Barrier Integrity in HT-29 Cells and DSS-Induced Colitis via Gut Microbiota Alteration

by Chul Sang Lee, Woo-Young Jang, Ju-Yeon Kim, Myung-Hyun Lee, Sung-Joon Mo, Yong-Tae Kim, Jae-Jung Shim and Jae-Hwan Lee

Curr. Issues Mol. Biol. 2026, 48(1), 32; https://doi.org/10.3390/cimb48010032 - 26 Dec 2025

Viewed by 852

Abstract

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) involves chronic inflammation and disruption of the intestinal barrier, often accompanied by alterations in gut microbiota composition. This study examined the protective potential of a prebiotic mixture extract (PME) prepared from Vigna radiata (mung bean), Vigna angularis (red bean), [...] Read more.

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) involves chronic inflammation and disruption of the intestinal barrier, often accompanied by alterations in gut microbiota composition. This study examined the protective potential of a prebiotic mixture extract (PME) prepared from Vigna radiata (mung bean), Vigna angularis (red bean), and Foeniculum vulgare (fennel) using the HT-29 cell and colitis animal model. PME exhibited concentration-dependent antioxidant activity, with greater radical-scavenging capacity in the ABTS assay than in the DPPH assay. In LPS-stimulated HT-29 epithelial cells, PME reduced the mRNA expression of inflammation-associated genes (TNF-α, IL-1β, NF-κB) and upregulated tight junction markers (CLDN1 and OCLN), demonstrating its anti-inflammatory and supportive effects on the intestinal barrier. Vitexin, a C-glycosylated flavonoid, was detected in PME and is expected to mediate these protective effects. In a DSS-induced colitis mouse model, PME administration alleviated disease severity by increasing colon length, reducing serum levels of inflammatory cytokines and COX-2/PGE2, and restoring intestinal permeability. Furthermore, PME modulated the gut microbiota by enhancing beneficial bacteria such as Bifidobacterium and Faecalibaculum while suppressing inflammation-associated taxa, including Escherichia, Bacteroides, and Mucispirillum. These improvements collectively suggest that PME reinforces epithelial barrier integrity and promotes intestinal homeostasis through both anti-inflammatory and microbiota-regulating actions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Role of Bioactives in Inflammation, 2nd Edition)

► Show Figures

Graphical abstract

21 pages, 5168 KB

Open AccessArticle

Antioxidant and Anti-Inflammatory Activities from Optimum Formula of Spatholobus littoralis Hassk. and Sauropus androgynus L.: In Vitro and In Silico Studies

by Rut Novalia Rahmawati Sianipar, Dyah Iswantini, Charlena Charlena, Setyanto Tri Wahyudi, Joni Prasetyo and Trivadila Trivadila

Curr. Issues Mol. Biol. 2025, 47(12), 969; https://doi.org/10.3390/cimb47120969 - 21 Nov 2025

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 964

Abstract

This study aimed to optimize a formulation of Spatholobus littoralis Hassk. stems and Sauropus androgynus L. leaves using Simple Lattice Design (SLD). In this context, the response variable was DPPH (2,2-Diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl) antioxidant activity, while the optimum extract concentration of the two plants served [...] Read more.

This study aimed to optimize a formulation of Spatholobus littoralis Hassk. stems and Sauropus androgynus L. leaves using Simple Lattice Design (SLD). In this context, the response variable was DPPH (2,2-Diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl) antioxidant activity, while the optimum extract concentration of the two plants served as the experimental factor. Subsequently, the optimum formula was investigated for its in vitro anti-inflammatory activity against COX-2 (cyclooxygenase-2) and through in silico study. Molecular docking on the COX-2 receptor (PDB ID: 5IKQ) from the secondary metabolite profile was validated for the optimum formula. The formulation recommended by SLD comprised a 1:1 mixture of 70% ethanol extract of S. littoralis Hassk. stems and S. androgynus L. leaves. This optimum formula had an IC₅₀ value of 108.70 µg/mL for the DPPH antioxidant with a synergistic effect due to the production of higher COX-2 inhibitory activity (73.05 ± 2.36%) than the single extract at 100 µg/mL. Daidzein (−8.514 kcal/mol), (10E,12Z)-9-Hydroperoxy-10,12-octadecadienoic acid (−7.604 kcal/mol), arteannuic acid (−7.114 kcal/mol), L-Proline,4-hydroxy-5-oxo-4-(tetrahydro-2,3,4-trihydroxy-2-furanyl)- (−6.480 kcal/mol), and Androst-2-en-17-amine,4,4-dimethyl-N-(2-phenylethyl)-, (5.alpha.)- (−5.440 kcal/mol) were the five compounds from the 70% ethanol extract of S. littoralis Hassk. stems and S. androgynus L. leaves that strongly bound 5IKQ. These compounds were obtained from five groups of compounds, namely flavonoids, fatty acids, terpenoids, amino acid derivatives, and amine derivatives. The formulation of S. littoralis Hassk. and S. androgynus L. extract has potential as an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agent. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Role of Bioactives in Inflammation, 2nd Edition)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

9 pages, 1762 KB

Open AccessArticle

Peucedanum japonicum-Derived Exosome-like Nanovesicles Alleviate Contact Dermatitis

by Yusuke Yamazumi, Tomoatsu Hayashi, Takuya Kojima, Takeaki Oda, Yasunari Kageyama, Tsutomu Nakamura, Yuki Kamoshida and Tetsu Akiyama

Curr. Issues Mol. Biol. 2025, 47(11), 909; https://doi.org/10.3390/cimb47110909 - 1 Nov 2025

Viewed by 866

Abstract

Contact dermatitis is a common inflammatory skin disorder triggered by exposure to allergens or irritants and characterized by erythema, swelling, and immune cell infiltration. In this study, we investigated the anti-inflammatory effects of exosome-like nanovesicles derived from Peucedanum japonicum Thunb. (PjELNs) using a [...] Read more.

Contact dermatitis is a common inflammatory skin disorder triggered by exposure to allergens or irritants and characterized by erythema, swelling, and immune cell infiltration. In this study, we investigated the anti-inflammatory effects of exosome-like nanovesicles derived from Peucedanum japonicum Thunb. (PjELNs) using a 2,4,6-trinitrochlorobenzene (TNCB)-induced mouse model of contact dermatitis. Intraperitoneal administration of PjELNs markedly reduced ear swelling and histopathological damage and decreased infiltration of inflammatory immune cells, particularly neutrophils. Moreover, PjELNs downregulated the expression of key pro-inflammatory cytokines, including CXCL2 and IL-1β, in the affected tissue. These findings indicate that PjELNs alleviate contact dermatitis-associated inflammation and suggest their potential as a novel plant-derived therapeutic modality for inflammatory skin diseases. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Role of Bioactives in Inflammation, 2nd Edition)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

16 pages, 27038 KB

Open AccessArticle

HCX3 Mitigates LPS-Induced Inflammatory Responses in Macrophages by Suppressing the Activation of the NF-κB Signaling Pathway

by Qianyi Wu, Jiyuan Shi, Luojin Wu, Lingxi Li, Yong Ling, Liming Mao and Jie Zhang

Curr. Issues Mol. Biol. 2025, 47(10), 809; https://doi.org/10.3390/cimb47100809 - 1 Oct 2025

Viewed by 2037

Abstract

Acute lung injury (ALI) is a severe pulmonary disorder characterized by the disruption of the alveolar–capillary barrier, leading to impaired oxygenation and pulmonary edema. Current pharmacological interventions primarily involve the use of steroid drugs, oxygen radical scavengers, and bronchodilators. However, the therapeutic efficacy [...] Read more.

Acute lung injury (ALI) is a severe pulmonary disorder characterized by the disruption of the alveolar–capillary barrier, leading to impaired oxygenation and pulmonary edema. Current pharmacological interventions primarily involve the use of steroid drugs, oxygen radical scavengers, and bronchodilators. However, the therapeutic efficacy of these interventions remains inconsistent. Canthin-6-ones, a class of tryptophan-derived alkaloids, exhibit anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and immunomodulatory properties. In this study, we synthesized a novel Canthin-6-one derivative, namely HCX3, and evaluated its potential beneficial effects and underlying mechanisms on ALI. Prior to the experimental study, network pharmacology analysis revealed that HCX3 may exert anti-inflammatory effects in the context of ALI through the regulation of multiple signaling pathways, including the NF-κB pathways. To validate these findings, Lipopolysaccharide (LPS) was employed to stimulate RAW 264.7 macrophages and bone marrow-derived macrophages (BMDMs) to construct cellular models of inflammatory response associated with ALI. Our data demonstrated that exposure to HCX3 significantly inhibited the transcription and the secretion of multiple pro-inflammatory mediators, including IL-1β, IL-6, and TNF-α, in a dose-dependent manner. Additionally, HCX3 reduced LPS-induced phosphorylation levels of p65 and IκB-α in macrophages, indicating an inhibitory effect of the compound on the activation of NF-κB signaling pathway. Collectively, our data suggest that HCX3 exhibits significant anti-inflammatory effects by inhibiting NF-κB-related signaling pathways, providing new insights for ALI treatment. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Role of Bioactives in Inflammation, 2nd Edition)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

18 pages, 4537 KB

Open AccessArticle

Colostrum-Derived Exosomal Lactoferrin Promotes Skin Fibroblast Regeneration by Suppressing Inflammatory Responses

by Chu-Hsun Cheng, Wei-Jer Hong, Chien-Nien Li, Yung-Hsueh Huang, Jeng-Haw Tsai, Chih-Yuan Huang, Jen-Chin Wu, Chan-Yen Kuo and Wen-Chun Kuo

Curr. Issues Mol. Biol. 2025, 47(7), 549; https://doi.org/10.3390/cimb47070549 - 15 Jul 2025

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2880

Abstract

Lactoferrin (LF), a multifunctional glycoprotein found abundantly in bovine colostrum, is known for its regenerative and anti-inflammatory properties. In this study, we investigated the wound healing and immunomodulatory effects of colostrum-derived exosome-encapsulated lactoferrin (EV-exoLF) on dermal fibroblasts. EV-exoLF was isolated and characterized via [...] Read more.

Lactoferrin (LF), a multifunctional glycoprotein found abundantly in bovine colostrum, is known for its regenerative and anti-inflammatory properties. In this study, we investigated the wound healing and immunomodulatory effects of colostrum-derived exosome-encapsulated lactoferrin (EV-exoLF) on dermal fibroblasts. EV-exoLF was isolated and characterized via nanoparticle tracking analysis and flow cytometry. Functional assays demonstrated that EV-exoLF significantly promoted fibroblast viability and migration in both mouse NIH/3T3 and human HS-68 cell lines. Furthermore, EV-exoLF reduced the expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-1 and IL-6) and phosphorylated JNK in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-treated fibroblasts. These findings suggest that EV-exoLF not only enhances fibroblast-mediated wound closure but also mitigates inflammation, highlighting its therapeutic potential in skin regeneration. Colostrum-derived exosomal lactoferrin may serve as a promising natural, cell-free strategy for managing inflammatory skin conditions and improving wound healing outcomes. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Role of Bioactives in Inflammation, 2nd Edition)

► Show Figures

Graphical abstract

Review

Jump to: Research, Other

20 pages, 918 KB

Open AccessReview

Lights and Shadows of Essential Oil-Derived Compounds: Antimicrobial and Anti-Inflammatory Properties of Eugenol, Thymol, Cinnamaldehyde, and Carvacrol

by Rocco Latorre, Maria Chiara Valerii, Marco Benati, Russell Edward Lewis, Renato Spigarelli, Alberto Bernacchi, Giuseppe Lippi, Enzo Spisni and Paolo Gaibani

Curr. Issues Mol. Biol. 2025, 47(11), 915; https://doi.org/10.3390/cimb47110915 - 4 Nov 2025

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 3061

Abstract

Essential oil-derived compounds such as eugenol, thymol, cinnamaldehyde, and carvacrol exhibit potent antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, making them promising candidates for therapeutic and industrial applications. This review examines the current evidence regarding the mechanisms of action, efficacy, and ability to disrupt quorum sensing [...] Read more.

Essential oil-derived compounds such as eugenol, thymol, cinnamaldehyde, and carvacrol exhibit potent antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, making them promising candidates for therapeutic and industrial applications. This review examines the current evidence regarding the mechanisms of action, efficacy, and ability to disrupt quorum sensing and biofilm formation of essential oil-derived compounds against a broad spectrum of Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, including multidrug-resistant (MDR) strains. The anti-inflammatory activity of these compounds is also highlighted, with emphasis on their modulation of key signaling pathways such as nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) and mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs), and their ability to downregulate pro-inflammatory cytokines. However, challenges persist, including cytotoxicity at high concentrations, chemical instability, poor water solubility, and variable pharmacokinetics. Advanced delivery systems such as nano encapsulation and synergistic formulations offer potential strategies to overcome these limitations. This review highlights both the therapeutic potential and the current limitations of these natural compounds, emphasizing the need for continued research to translate preclinical findings into clinical applications. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Role of Bioactives in Inflammation, 2nd Edition)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

Other

Jump to: Research, Review

8 pages, 873 KB

Open AccessBrief Report

Angelic Acid Prevents RANKL-Induced Osteoclastogenesis Through Pathway-Biased Inhibition of MAPK–NFATc1 Signaling

by Lifang Zhang, Mojtaba Tabandeh and Vishwa Deepak

Curr. Issues Mol. Biol. 2026, 48(4), 412; https://doi.org/10.3390/cimb48040412 - 17 Apr 2026

Viewed by 184

Abstract

Excessive osteoclast activity drives inflammatory bone loss in osteoporosis, rheumatoid arthritis, and periodontitis. Natural compounds represent promising therapeutic candidates with favorable safety profiles; however, few exhibit pathway-biased mechanisms of action. Here, we report that angelic acid (AA), a naturally occurring unsaturated monocarboxylic acid, [...] Read more.

Excessive osteoclast activity drives inflammatory bone loss in osteoporosis, rheumatoid arthritis, and periodontitis. Natural compounds represent promising therapeutic candidates with favorable safety profiles; however, few exhibit pathway-biased mechanisms of action. Here, we report that angelic acid (AA), a naturally occurring unsaturated monocarboxylic acid, potently inhibits RANKL-induced osteoclastogenesis. This effect occurs with an IC₅₀ of 1.9 µM without cytotoxicity. Mechanistically, AA selectively suppressed RANKL-activated phosphorylation of ERK1/2, p38, and JNK (all three MAPK branches), while leaving NF-κB transcriptional activity unaffected. This preferential MAPK suppression disrupted downstream NFATc1 nuclear translocation, thereby preventing NFATc1-driven transcription of osteoclast-specific effector genes including TRAP, cathepsin K, and Atp6v0d2. These findings identify AA as a novel inhibitor of the RANKL–MAPK–NFATc1 axis, providing a mechanistic foundation for its therapeutic development in osteoporosis and other osteolytic diseases. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Role of Bioactives in Inflammation, 2nd Edition)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

Journal Menu

Journal Browser

The Role of Bioactives in Inflammation, 2nd Edition

Share This Special Issue

Special Issue Editor

Special Issue Information

Keywords

Benefits of Publishing in a Special Issue

Published Papers (10 papers)

Research

Review

Other

Further Information

Guidelines

MDPI Initiatives

Follow MDPI