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Natural Bioactives: Exploring Their Therapeutic Potential
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Natural Bioactives: Exploring Their Therapeutic Potential

A special issue of Life (ISSN 2075-1729). This special issue belongs to the section "Pharmaceutical Science".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: closed (29 November 2024) | Viewed by 26264

Special Issue Editor

Dr. Dagmara Wróbel-Biedrawa

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Guest Editor
Department of Pharmacognosy, Jagiellonian University Collegium Medicum, Medyczna 9, 30-688 Cracow, Poland
Interests: rapanone; embelin; polyphenols; phytochemical analysis; CNS biological activity in vivo; anti-tyrosinase activity; Ardisia crenata; quantification of plant metabolites
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

Exploring therapeutic agents is a constant endeavor. Nature, a trove of biodiversity, continually offers us biologically active compounds. Time-tested natural bioactives such as artemisinin, which is isolated from the plant Artemisia annua and has for decades been a key treatment for malaria, or the Madagascar-periwinkle-derived anticancer agents vincristine and vinblastine, demonstrate nature's therapeutic potential. Today, at least 70,000 medicinal plants are known to be used worldwide, highlighting the vast potential yet to be fully explored.

During recent decades, research has been focused on exploring therapeutics for non-communicable diseases, which have become a growing and overwhelming medical problem. It has been shown in many studies that agents with antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and cytotoxic properties (apparat from more specific activities) can be useful in the prophylaxis and/or treatment of central nervous system disorders, cancer, cardiovascular and metabolic diseases. Many phytochemicals, such as phenolic compounds (e.g., flavonoids, tannins, quinones or curcuminoids), terpenoids, steroids or alkaloids, have been found to possess complex and beneficial modes of biological action. Consequently, they have been a continuously important subject of research interest. Furthermore, the last few years have shown that infectious diseases can also be an unexpected global threat, and this time, nature-derived substances are being broadly explored as well, as herbs and microbes are known sources of antibiotic agents.

In this Special Issue, our aim is to bring together the latest discoveries and fresh insights, taking a closer look at diverse phytochemicals and compounds from plants, marine organisms, fungi, and microbes. Both original research articles and comprehensive reviews are welcomed.

For the publication of the previous edition, please see: https://www.mdpi.com/journal/life/special_issues/Natural_Anti_Tumor_Compounds

Dr. Dagmara Wróbel-Biedrawa
Guest Editor

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Keywords

  • bioactive compounds
  • medicinal plants
  • bioactive metabolites antioxidant properties
  • anti-inflammatory properties
  • antitumor properties
  • cytotoxic properties
  • antipsychotic properties
  • anxiolytic properties
  • neuroprotective properties
  • hypotensive properties
  • vasorelaxant properties
  • antimicrobial properties (antiviral, antibacterial, antifungal, and antiparasitic properties)

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Related Special Issue

Published Papers (12 papers)

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Research

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19 pages, 10669 KiB  
Article
Insights into the Regulatory Effect of Danggui Buxue Tang in Postpartum Dairy Cows Through an Integrated Analysis of Multi-Omics and Network Analysis
by Kang Yong, Zhengzhong Luo, Zheng Zhou, Yixin Huang, Chuanshi Zhang and Suizhong Cao
Life 2025, 15(3), 408; https://doi.org/10.3390/life15030408 - 5 Mar 2025
Viewed by 535
Abstract
Postpartum dairy cows often face significant challenges due to metabolic disorders. Danggui Buxue Tang (DBT), a botanical drug composed of Astragali radix and Angelica sinensis radix in a 5:1 ratio, has been recognized for its potential to alleviate metabolic disorders. Its regulatory mechanisms [...] Read more.
Postpartum dairy cows often face significant challenges due to metabolic disorders. Danggui Buxue Tang (DBT), a botanical drug composed of Astragali radix and Angelica sinensis radix in a 5:1 ratio, has been recognized for its potential to alleviate metabolic disorders. Its regulatory mechanisms on livestock metabolic health have remained unexplored. This study integrated the analyses of serum pharmacochemistry, network pharmacology, serum metabolomics, and fecal microbiota to investigate the regulatory effects of DBT on metabolic adaptation in postpartum dairy cows. Following the oral administration of DBT, levels of blood non-esterified fatty acids and beta-hydroxybutyrate were decreased in multiparous dairy cows one week after calving. Five absorbed prototype metabolites of DBT were identified, specifically formononetin and nicotinic acid, both of which play roles in the regulation of lipid metabolic homeostasis. Furthermore, DBT modified the composition of the gut microbial community and glycerophospholipid levels. Decreases in serum phosphatidylethanolamine and phosphatidylcholine levels were closely correlated with the relative abundance of Bacillus and the concentration of circulating beta-hydroxybutyrate. These findings suggest that DBT contributes positively to metabolic health in postpartum dairy cows by regulating the gut microbiota and glycerophospholipid metabolism, providing new insights into strategies for promoting metabolic adaptation in dairy cows. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Natural Bioactives: Exploring Their Therapeutic Potential)
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18 pages, 4921 KiB  
Article
Quercetin Enhances 5-Fluorouracil-Driven Cytotoxicity Dose-Dependently in A375 Human Melanoma Cells
by Andrea Roman, Andreea Smeu, Ana Lascu, Cristina Adriana Dehelean, Iasmina-Alexandra Predescu, Andrei Motoc, Claudia Borza, George Andrei Draghici, Cristina Maria Trandafirescu, Alina Anton and Simona Ardelean
Life 2024, 14(12), 1685; https://doi.org/10.3390/life14121685 - 19 Dec 2024
Viewed by 1234
Abstract
Cutaneous melanoma (CM) represents a severe skin cancer with a rising incidence at present and limited treatment options. 5-Fluorouracil (5-FU) is widely used, including for CM; however, the innate resistance of this cancer to conventional therapy remains problematic. Quercetin (QUE) is a flavonoid [...] Read more.
Cutaneous melanoma (CM) represents a severe skin cancer with a rising incidence at present and limited treatment options. 5-Fluorouracil (5-FU) is widely used, including for CM; however, the innate resistance of this cancer to conventional therapy remains problematic. Quercetin (QUE) is a flavonoid that can sensitize cancer cells to antitumor agents such as 5-FU. However, the potential sensitization capability of CM cells to 5-FU has scarcely been determined, and is investigated herein. Therefore, A375 CM cells were tested in terms of their cell viability, cell confluence, and morphological changes. Their nuclear and cytoskeletal aspects, clonogenic potential, and in ovo properties were also followed. The results showed that the 50% inhibitory concentrations (IC50s) of 5-FU and QUE determined by a cell proliferation assay were 11.56 and 11.08 µM, respectively. The addition of QUE (10 µM) to 5-FU (5–50 µM) increased the cytotoxic potential. A significant decline in cell viability (up to 43.51%), the loss of cell confluence, chromatin condensation and nuclear dysmorphology, tubulin and F-actin constriction, and a suppressed clonogenic ability were noted. The QUE + 5-FU association was non-irritating to the chorioallantoic membrane and showed an antiangiogenic effect in ovo. Thus, our results highlight that combining QUE with 5-FU can enhance the cytotoxic effect of 5-FU in A375 melanoma cells and present a safe profile in ovo. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Natural Bioactives: Exploring Their Therapeutic Potential)
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24 pages, 14590 KiB  
Article
Elucidation of Anti-Obesity Mechanisms of Phenolics in Artemisiae argyi Folium (Aiye) by Integrating LC-MS, Network Pharmacology, and Molecular Docking
by Yongxiang Liu, Jinhai Luo and Baojun Xu
Life 2024, 14(6), 656; https://doi.org/10.3390/life14060656 - 22 May 2024
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1654
Abstract
The global prevalence of obesity is a pressing health issue, increasing the medical burden and posing significant health risks to humans. The side effects and complications associated with conventional medication and surgery have spurred the search for anti-obesity drugs from plant resources. Previous [...] Read more.
The global prevalence of obesity is a pressing health issue, increasing the medical burden and posing significant health risks to humans. The side effects and complications associated with conventional medication and surgery have spurred the search for anti-obesity drugs from plant resources. Previous studies have suggested that Artemisiae argyi Folium (Aiye) water extracts could inhibit pancreatic lipase activities, control body weight increase, and improve the plasma lipids profile. However, the exact components and mechanisms were not precisely understood. Therefore, this research aims to identify the chemical profile of Aiye and provide a comprehensive prediction of its anti-obesity mechanisms. The water extract of Aiye was subjected to LC-MS analysis, which identified 30 phenolics. The anti-obesity mechanisms of these phenolics were then predicted, employing network pharmacology and molecular docking. Among the 30 phenolics, 21 passed the drug-likeness screening and exhibited 486 anti-obesity targets. The enrichment analysis revealed that these phenolics may combat obesity through PI3K-Akt signaling and MAPK, prolactin, and cAMP signaling pathways. Eight phenolics and seven central targets were selected for molecular docking, and 45 out of 56 docking had a binding affinity of less than −5 kcal/mol. This research has indicated the potential therapy targets and signaling pathways of Aiye in combating obesity. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Natural Bioactives: Exploring Their Therapeutic Potential)
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21 pages, 6387 KiB  
Article
Genistein–Aspirin Combination Exerts Cytotoxic and Anti-Migratory Effects in Human Colorectal Cancer Cells
by Claudia Iftode, Stela Iurciuc, Iasmina Marcovici, Ioana Macasoi, Dorina Coricovac, Cristina Dehelean, Sorin Ursoniu, Andreea Rusu and Simona Ardelean
Life 2024, 14(5), 606; https://doi.org/10.3390/life14050606 - 9 May 2024
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 1824
Abstract
Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a heterogenous pathology with high incidence and mortality rates globally, but it is also preventable so finding the most promising candidates (natural compounds or repurposed drugs) to be chemopreventive alternatives has become a topic of interest in recent years. [...] Read more.
Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a heterogenous pathology with high incidence and mortality rates globally, but it is also preventable so finding the most promising candidates (natural compounds or repurposed drugs) to be chemopreventive alternatives has become a topic of interest in recent years. The present work aims to elucidate the potential effects of a combination between genistein (GEN), an isoflavone of natural origin, and aspirin (ASA) in CRC prevention/treatment by performing an in vitro evaluation in human colorectal cancer cells (HCT-116) and an in ovo analysis using the chick embryo chorioallantoic membrane (CAM) model. Cell viability was verified by an MTT (migratory potential by scratch) assay, and the expressions of MMP-2 and MMP-9 were analyzed using RT-qPCR. Our results indicated a dose-dependent cytotoxic effect of ASA (2.5 mM) + GEN (10–75 µM) combination characterized by reduced cell viability and morphological changes (actin skeleton reorganization and nuclei deterioration), an inhibition of HCT-116 cells’ migratory potential by down-regulating MMP-2 and MMP-9 mRNA expressions, and an antiangiogenic effect by modifying the vascular network. These promising results raise the possibility of future in-depth investigations regarding the chemopreventive/therapeutical potential of ASA+GEN combination. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Natural Bioactives: Exploring Their Therapeutic Potential)
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21 pages, 11029 KiB  
Article
Comparative Evaluation of Anticancer Activity of Natural Methoxylated Flavones Xanthomicrol and Eupatilin in A375 Skin Melanoma Cells
by Antonella Rosa, Franca Piras, Federica Pollastro, Valeria Sogos, Giovanni Appendino and Mariella Nieddu
Life 2024, 14(3), 304; https://doi.org/10.3390/life14030304 - 26 Feb 2024
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 4710
Abstract
Melanoma is a skin cancer caused by the malignant transformation of melanocytes and cutaneous melanoma represents the most aggressive and deadliest type of skin cancer with an increasing incidence worldwide. The main purpose of the present research was to evaluate the anticancer effects [...] Read more.
Melanoma is a skin cancer caused by the malignant transformation of melanocytes and cutaneous melanoma represents the most aggressive and deadliest type of skin cancer with an increasing incidence worldwide. The main purpose of the present research was to evaluate the anticancer effects of the natural bioactive compounds xanthomicrol (XAN) and eupatilin (EUP) in human A375 malignant skin melanoma cells, a cell line widely used as an in vitro model of cutaneous melanoma. XAN and EUP are lipophilic methoxylated flavones with antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antitumor properties. The effects of XAN and EUP on cell viability, morphology, lipid profile, oxidative status, apoptosis, and mitochondrial membrane polarization were determined and compared in A375 cells. At 24 h-incubation (MTT assay), XAN significantly reduced viability at the dose range of 2.5–200 μM, while EUP showed a significant cytotoxicity from 25 μM. Moreover, both methoxylated flavones induced (at 10 and 25 μM, 24 h-incubation) marked cell morphological alterations (presence of rounded and multi-nucleated cells), signs of apoptosis (NucView 488 assay), and a noteworthy mitochondrial membrane depolarization (MitoView 633 assay), coupled to a marked lipid profile modulation, including variations in the ratio of phospholipid/cholesterol and a decrease in the oleic, palmitic, and palmitoleic acid amounts. Moreover, a remarkable time-dependent ROS generation (2′,7′-dichlorodihydrofluorescein diacetate assay) was observed during 3 h-incubation of A375 cancer cells in the presence of XAN and EUP (10 and 25 μM). Our results confirm the potential antitumor effect of natural EUP and XAN in cutaneous melanoma by the activation of multiple anticancer mechanisms. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Natural Bioactives: Exploring Their Therapeutic Potential)
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13 pages, 1353 KiB  
Article
Heteroctenus junceus Scorpion Venom Modulates the Concentration of Pro-Inflammatory Cytokines in F3II Tumor Cells
by Arianna Yglesias-Rivera, Hermis Sánchez-Rodríguez, Carmen Soto-Febles and Lianet Monzote
Life 2023, 13(12), 2287; https://doi.org/10.3390/life13122287 - 30 Nov 2023
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1629
Abstract
The ability of Heteroctenus junceus scorpion venom to modulate the concentration of cytokines related to its antitumoral effect is unknown. F3II cells were treated with ¼ IC50, ½ IC50 and the IC50 of H. junceus scorpion venom. Tumor growth [...] Read more.
The ability of Heteroctenus junceus scorpion venom to modulate the concentration of cytokines related to its antitumoral effect is unknown. F3II cells were treated with ¼ IC50, ½ IC50 and the IC50 of H. junceus scorpion venom. Tumor growth kinetics in F3II-bearing mice were evaluated after 24 days of oral administration of venom doses. The effect of tumor lysates on F3II cell viability was evaluated by MTT assay, while cytokines present in each sample were determined by ELISA. In supernatant, H. junceus scorpion venom decreased the concentration of IL-6 (p < 0.001), IFN-γ (p < 0.001), IL-1β (p < 0.01); meanwhile IL-12 (p < 0.001) and TNF-α (p < 0.001) levels increased significantly, according to the concentration and the time of incubation. Heteroctenus junceus scorpion venom effectively inhibits in vivo tumor progression. In the sera, a significant decrease was observed in TNF-α levels (p < 0.05). In tumor lysates, IL-6 decreased significantly in the groups treated with 12.5 mg/kg (p < 0.001) and 25 mg/kg (p < 0.05). Heteroctenus junceus scorpion venom is capable of modulating other proinflammatory and protumoral cytokines involved in the inflammation associated with cancer. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Natural Bioactives: Exploring Their Therapeutic Potential)
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12 pages, 2718 KiB  
Article
Protective Effect of Urtica dioica Extract against Oxidative Stress in Human Skin Fibroblasts
by Agnieszka Skalska-Kamińska, Weronika Wójciak, Magdalena Żuk, Roman Paduch and Magdalena Wójciak
Life 2023, 13(11), 2182; https://doi.org/10.3390/life13112182 - 9 Nov 2023
Cited by 8 | Viewed by 1976
Abstract
Urtica dioica is a species with well-established significance in folk medicine in many countries. It was utilized to support the treatment of arthritis, allergies, and urinary tract disorders; however, the substantial presence of antioxidants suggests that nettle extract could also have a positive [...] Read more.
Urtica dioica is a species with well-established significance in folk medicine in many countries. It was utilized to support the treatment of arthritis, allergies, and urinary tract disorders; however, the substantial presence of antioxidants suggests that nettle extract could also have a positive impact on the skin. The objective of this study was to assess the impact of nettle extract on human skin fibroblasts subjected to oxidative stress. Various solvents were tested to prepare an extract rich in polyphenolic compounds with high antioxidant potential. The chemical composition was determined using ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography with mass spectrometry (UPLC-DAD-MS). H2O2 treatment was used to induce oxidative stress and cell viability, and the metabolism was evaluated through NR and MTT assays. Our study demonstrated that extraction with 80% ethanol, followed by the drying and re-dissolving of the extract in pure water, was more efficient than direct extraction with water. This yielded an extract rich in polyphenolic compounds, with chlorogenic acid and caffeoylmalic acid as the predominant compounds, averaging 64.9 and 114.4 µg/mL, respectively. The extract exhibited antioxidant properties in the DPPH and ABTS assays. Furthermore, it did not exhibit cytotoxicity and did not negatively affect cell metabolism. In addition, it effectively reduced ROS in the H2O2-stimulated cells, and at the highest concentration tested, the ROS levels returned to those of the untreated control. The extract also protected against H2O2-induced cytotoxicity. The cell viability was maintained at the level of the untreated control when the cells were pretreated with the extract before H2O2 exposure. These findings indicate that U. dioica extract is a valuable and safe additive in skincare products. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Natural Bioactives: Exploring Their Therapeutic Potential)
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18 pages, 583 KiB  
Article
Screening of Phytochemical, Antimicrobial, and Antioxidant Properties of Juncus acutus from Northeastern Morocco
by Yousra Hammouti, Amine Elbouzidi, Mohamed Taibi, Reda Bellaouchi, El Hassania Loukili, Mohamed Bouhrim, Omar M. Noman, Ramzi A. Mothana, Mansour N. Ibrahim, Abdeslam Asehraou, Bouchra El Guerrouj and Mohamed Addi
Life 2023, 13(11), 2135; https://doi.org/10.3390/life13112135 - 29 Oct 2023
Cited by 6 | Viewed by 2185
Abstract
Juncus acutus, acknowledged through its indigenous nomenclature “samar”, is part of the Juncaceae taxonomic lineage, bearing considerable import as a botanical reservoir harboring conceivable therapeutic attributes. Its historical precedence in traditional curative methodologies for the alleviation of infections and inflammatory conditions is [...] Read more.
Juncus acutus, acknowledged through its indigenous nomenclature “samar”, is part of the Juncaceae taxonomic lineage, bearing considerable import as a botanical reservoir harboring conceivable therapeutic attributes. Its historical precedence in traditional curative methodologies for the alleviation of infections and inflammatory conditions is notable. In the purview of Eastern traditional medicine, Juncus species seeds find application for their remedial efficacy in addressing diarrhea, while the botanical fruits are subjected to infusion processes targeting the attenuation of symptoms associated with cold manifestations. The primary objective of this study was to unravel the phytochemical composition of distinct constituents within J. acutus, specifically leaves (JALE) and roots (JARE), originating from the indigenous expanse of the Nador region in northeastern Morocco. The extraction of plant constituents was executed utilizing an ethanol-based extraction protocol. The subsequent elucidation of chemical constituents embedded within the extracts was accomplished employing analytical techniques based on high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). For the purpose of in vitro antioxidant evaluation, a dual approach was adopted, encompassing the radical scavenging technique employing 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and the total antioxidant capacity (TAC) assay. The acquired empirical data showcase substantial radical scavenging efficacy and pronounced relative antioxidant activity. Specifically, the DPPH and TAC methods yielded values of 483.45 ± 4.07 µg/mL and 54.59 ± 2.44 µg of ascorbic acid (AA)/mL, respectively, for the leaf extracts. Correspondingly, the root extracts demonstrated values of 297.03 ± 43.3 µg/mL and 65.615 ± 0.54 µg of AA/mL for the DPPH and TAC methods. In the realm of antimicrobial evaluation, the assessment of effects was undertaken through the agar well diffusion technique. The minimum inhibitory concentration, minimum bactericidal concentration, and minimum fungicidal concentration were determined for each extract. The inhibitory influence of the ethanol extracts was observed across bacterial strains including Staphylococcus aureus, Micrococcus luteus, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa, with the notable exception of Escherichia coli. However, fungal strains such as Candida glabrata and Rhodotorula glutinis exhibited comparatively lower resistance, whereas Aspergillus niger and Penicillium digitatum exhibited heightened resistance, evincing negligible antifungal activity. An anticipatory computational assessment of pharmacokinetic parameters was conducted, complemented by the application of the Pro-tox II web tool to delineate the potential toxicity profile of compounds intrinsic to the studied extracts. The culmination of these endeavors underpins the conceivable prospects of the investigated extracts as promising candidates for oral medicinal applications. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Natural Bioactives: Exploring Their Therapeutic Potential)
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Review

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35 pages, 5046 KiB  
Review
Genipin—Simple but Significant Bioactive Iridoid for Therapeutical Application and Beyond: A Review
by Danuta Sobolewska, Agnieszka Galanty, Karolina Grabowska, Justyna Makowska-Wąs, Irma Podolak and Dagmara Wróbel-Biedrawa
Life 2025, 15(2), 159; https://doi.org/10.3390/life15020159 - 23 Jan 2025
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1414
Abstract
Genipin is a non-glycosidic iridoid isolated mainly from the fruits of Gardenia jasminoides and Genipa americana. It is the active ingredient in extracts from these plants, responsible for their anti-inflammatory and hepatoprotective effects. In several in vitro tests, its anti-proliferative activity against [...] Read more.
Genipin is a non-glycosidic iridoid isolated mainly from the fruits of Gardenia jasminoides and Genipa americana. It is the active ingredient in extracts from these plants, responsible for their anti-inflammatory and hepatoprotective effects. In several in vitro tests, its anti-proliferative activity against tumour cell lines has been demonstrated, and due to its ability to specifically inhibit the UCP2 protein and inhibit STAT3 activation, a significant increase in the cytotoxicity of several anticancer drugs was observed in co-treatment with genipin. In recent years, the importance of genipin has increased due to the possibility of using this iridoid as a biocompatible and low cytotoxicity potent crosslinking agent in the manufacture of dressings, in tissue engineering, as a component of a drug carrier system and in the production of food packaging. Genipin is also a substrate in the production of a blue pigment used as a food additive and fabric pigment, and other applications. Due to documented cases of hepatotoxicity, genipin and the blue pigment derived from it are being investigated for effective and safe therapeutic and non-drug use. The current paper discusses selected aspects of chemistry, activity and use of this interesting compound. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Natural Bioactives: Exploring Their Therapeutic Potential)
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35 pages, 735 KiB  
Review
Unlocking New Therapeutic Options for Vincristine-Induced Neuropathic Pain: The Impact of Preclinical Research
by Ciprian Pușcașu, Simona Negreș, Cristina Elena Zbârcea and Cornel Chiriță
Life 2024, 14(11), 1500; https://doi.org/10.3390/life14111500 - 17 Nov 2024
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2687
Abstract
Vincristine, a vinca alkaloid, is used in chemotherapy protocols for cancers such as acute leukemia, Hodgkin’s disease, neuroblastoma, cervical carcinoma, lymphomas, breast cancer, and melanoma. Among the common adverse effects of vincristine is peripheral neuropathy, with most patients receiving a cumulative dose over [...] Read more.
Vincristine, a vinca alkaloid, is used in chemotherapy protocols for cancers such as acute leukemia, Hodgkin’s disease, neuroblastoma, cervical carcinoma, lymphomas, breast cancer, and melanoma. Among the common adverse effects of vincristine is peripheral neuropathy, with most patients receiving a cumulative dose over 4 mg/m2 who develop varying degrees of sensory neuropathy. The onset of vincristine-induced peripheral neuropathy can greatly affect patients’ quality of life, often requiring dose adjustments or the discontinuation of treatment. Moreover, managing vincristine-induced peripheral neuropathy is challenging, with few effective therapeutic strategies available. In the past decade, preclinical studies have explored diverse substances aimed at preventing or alleviating VIPN. Our review consolidates these findings, focusing on the analgesic efficacy and potential mechanisms of various agents, including pharmaceutical drugs, natural compounds, and antioxidants, that show promise in reducing neuropathic pain and protecting neural integrity in preclinical models. Key novel therapeutic options, such as metabolic agents (liraglutide), enzyme inhibitors (ulinastatin), antipsychotics (aripiprazole), interleukin-1 receptor antagonists (anakinra), hormones (oxytocin), and antioxidants (thioctic acid), are highlighted for their neuroprotective, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant effects. Through this synthesis, we aim to enhance the current understanding of VIPN management by identifying pharmacological strategies that target critical molecular pathways, laying the groundwork for future clinical studies. By clarifying these novel pharmacological approaches and elucidating their mechanisms of action, this review provides a foundation for developing more effective VIPN treatment strategies to ultimately improve patient outcomes. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Natural Bioactives: Exploring Their Therapeutic Potential)
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19 pages, 2342 KiB  
Review
Clinical Trial Findings and Drug Development Challenges for Curcumin in Infectious Disease Prevention and Treatment
by Mohamed El Oirdi and Mohd Farhan
Life 2024, 14(9), 1138; https://doi.org/10.3390/life14091138 - 9 Sep 2024
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 3231
Abstract
Since ancient times, turmeric, scientifically known as Curcuma longa, has been renowned for its therapeutic properties. Recently, extensive documentation has highlighted the prevalence of microbial diseases without effective treatments, the increased expense of certain antimicrobial medications, and the growing occurrence of antimicrobial [...] Read more.
Since ancient times, turmeric, scientifically known as Curcuma longa, has been renowned for its therapeutic properties. Recently, extensive documentation has highlighted the prevalence of microbial diseases without effective treatments, the increased expense of certain antimicrobial medications, and the growing occurrence of antimicrobial drug resistance. Experts predict that drug resistance will emerge as a significant global cause of death by the middle of this century, thereby necessitating intervention. Curcumin, a major curcuminoid molecule, has shown extensive antimicrobial action. Improving and altering the use of natural antimicrobial agents is the most effective approach to addressing issues of targeted specificity and drug resistance in chemically synthesized medicines. Further research is required to explore the efficacy of curcumin and other natural antimicrobial substances in combating microbial infections. The solubility and bioavailability of curcumin impede its antimicrobial capability. To enhance curcumin’s antimicrobial effectiveness, researchers have recently employed several methods, including the development of curcumin-based nanoformulations. This review seeks to compile the latest available literature to assess the advantages of curcumin as a natural antimicrobial agent (particularly antiviral and antibacterial) and strategies to enhance its medical efficacy. The future application of curcumin will help to alleviate microbial infections, thereby promoting the sustainability of the world’s population. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Natural Bioactives: Exploring Their Therapeutic Potential)
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18 pages, 1665 KiB  
Review
Beneficial Effect of Olive Oil and Its Derivates: Focus on Hematological Neoplasm
by Chiara Campo, Sebastiano Gangemi, Giovanni Pioggia and Alessandro Allegra
Life 2024, 14(5), 583; https://doi.org/10.3390/life14050583 - 30 Apr 2024
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1608
Abstract
Olive oil (Olea europaea) is one of the major components of the Mediterranean diet and is composed of a greater percentage of monounsaturated fatty acids, such as oleic acid; polyunsaturated fatty acids, such as linoleic acid; and minor compounds, such as [...] Read more.
Olive oil (Olea europaea) is one of the major components of the Mediterranean diet and is composed of a greater percentage of monounsaturated fatty acids, such as oleic acid; polyunsaturated fatty acids, such as linoleic acid; and minor compounds, such as phenolic compounds, and particularly hydroxytyrosol. The latter, in fact, are of greater interest since they have found widespread use in popular medicine. In recent years, it has been documented that phenolic acids and in particular hydroxytyrosol have anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antiproliferative action and therefore interest in their possible use in clinical practice and in particular in neoplasms, both solid and hematological, has arisen. This work aims to summarize and analyze the studies present in the literature, both in vitro and in vivo, on the possible use of minor components of olive oil in some hematological neoplasms. In recent years, in fact, interest in nutraceutical science has expanded as a possible adjuvant in the treatment of neoplastic pathologies. Although it is worth underlining that, regarding the object of our study, there are still few preclinical and clinical studies, it is, however, possible to document a role of possible interest in clinical practice. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Natural Bioactives: Exploring Their Therapeutic Potential)
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