Search for Articles:
Title / Keyword
Author / Affiliation / Email
Journal
Article Type
 
 
Advanced Search
 
Section
Special Issue
Volume
Issue
Number
Page
 
4.3
3.2
Journals
Life
Special Issues
Implications of Bioactive Compounds in Lifelong Disorders
share announcement

Implications of Bioactive Compounds in Lifelong Disorders

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

Deadline for manuscript submissions: closed (31 March 2025) | Viewed by 14013

Special Issue Editors

Dr. Guillermo Cásedas

E-Mail Website1 Website2
Guest Editor
1. Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Health Sciences, Universidad San Jorge, 50830 Zaragoza, Spain
2. Instituto Agroalimentario de Aragón-IA2, CITA-Universidad de Zaragoza, 50059 Zaragoza, Spain
Interests: natural products; western blot; neuroprotection; polyphenols; antioxidants; cell culture; oxidative stress; phytochemicals
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals
Dr. Francisco Les

E-Mail Website1 Website2
Guest Editor
1. Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Health Sciences, Universidad San Jorge, 50830 Zaragoza, Spain
2. Instituto Agroalimentario de Aragón-IA2, CITA-Universidad de Zaragoza, 50059 Zaragoza, Spain
Interests: pharmacology and pharmacy; pharmacognosy; ethnopharmacology; plant science; medicinal plants; food science; natural products; nutrition and dietetics; bioactive foods
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

The regulation of oxidative stress plays a fundamental role in several physiological and pathological processes, encompassing the modulation of the inflammatory response, cellular proliferation, apoptotic activity, and immune responses. In addition, its relationship with various diseases has been studied, such as Inflammatory Bowel Diseases (IBDs), cardiovascular and neurodegenerative disorders, cancer, and metabolic syndromes.

Over the past few decades, coordinated solutions have been proposed to remedy these intracellular imbalances. Within this context, bioactive compounds have emerged as pivotal candidates, due to changes in scientific perspectives and growing concern within society to understand the food ecosystem.

The benefits that these bioactive compounds can provide will depend on their redox signalling mechanisms. Many of them possess antioxidant properties and can act as electron donors, neutralizing free radicals and reducing oxidative stress. This helps to ensure the maintenance of a proper redox balance in cells and prevents oxidative damage to biomolecules such as lipids, proteins, and DNA.

These compounds can act as key modulators in the regulation of cellular processes, which could have a significant impact on health and well-being.

This Special Issue revolves around the search for bioactive compounds and their impact on cellular signalling, unveiling new avenues of action within known signalling pathways. These compounds offer a promising opportunity to prevent the development of neurodegenerative and cardiovascular diseases.

Studying their effect on lifelong disorders provides a deeper understanding of these underlying mechanisms and may lead to the development of innovative therapeutic interventions in the future.

In this sense, several studies can contribute to this Special Issue, including systematic reviews and metanalysis, clinical trials, and preclinical studies. Submitted manuscripts are required to include sufficiently detailed descriptions of the composition and stability of the study material when addressing plant extracts or other natural compounds.

Dr. Guillermo Cásedas
Dr. Francisco Les
Guest Editors

Manuscript Submission Information

Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.mdpi.com by registering and logging in to this website. Once you are registered, click here to go to the submission form. Manuscripts can be submitted until the deadline. All submissions that pass pre-check are peer-reviewed. Accepted papers will be published continuously in the journal (as soon as accepted) and will be listed together on the special issue website. Research articles, review articles as well as short communications are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 100 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for announcement on this website.

Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Life is an international peer-reviewed open access monthly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 2600 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

Keywords

  • phytochemicals
  • functional food
  • oxidative stress
  • metabolic syndrome
  • neuroinflammation
  • antioxidant
  • polyphenols
  • diabetes
  • inflammatory bowel disease
  • natural products
  • neurodegenerative disease

Benefits of Publishing in a Special Issue

  • Ease of navigation: Grouping papers by topic helps scholars navigate broad scope journals more efficiently.
  • Greater discoverability: Special Issues support the reach and impact of scientific research. Articles in Special Issues are more discoverable and cited more frequently.
  • Expansion of research network: Special Issues facilitate connections among authors, fostering scientific collaborations.
  • External promotion: Articles in Special Issues are often promoted through the journal's social media, increasing their visibility.
  • e-Book format: Special Issues with more than 10 articles can be published as dedicated e-books, ensuring wide and rapid dissemination.

Further information on MDPI's Special Issue policies can be found here.

Published Papers (10 papers)

Download All Papers
Order results
Result details
Show export options expand_more Show export options expand_less
Select all
Export citation of selected articles as:

Research

Jump to: Review, Other

12 pages, 1269 KiB  
Article
In Vitro Anti-Glioblastoma Activity of Echinocereus engelmannii- and Echinocereus pectinatus-Associated Bacterial Endophyte Extracts
by Ana L. Delgado-Miranda, Ricardo Gomez-Flores, Nancy E. Rodríguez-Garza, Orquídea Pérez-González, Patricia Tamez-Guerra, Diana Caballero-Hernández, Diana L. Clark-Pérez, Ramiro Quintanilla-Licea, Andrés García and César I. Romo-Sáenz
Life 2025, 15(4), 519; https://doi.org/10.3390/life15040519 - 21 Mar 2025
Viewed by 339
Abstract
Glioblastoma is the most common and aggressive brain tumor in adults. However, due to the limitations of conventional treatments, as well as their side effects, there is a need to develop more effective and less harmful therapy strategies. There is evidence that plants [...] Read more.
Glioblastoma is the most common and aggressive brain tumor in adults. However, due to the limitations of conventional treatments, as well as their side effects, there is a need to develop more effective and less harmful therapy strategies. There is evidence that plants endemic to northern Mexico possess biological activities that positively impact human health, particularly against cancer. Echinocereus engelmannii and Echinocereus pectinatus are cacti from the north of Mexico that produce bioactive compounds with antitumor activity. We obtained methanol extracts from previously isolated and fermented microorganisms associated with these cacti. Cell lines of extracts with cytotoxicity against glioblastoma cells U87, neuroblastoma cells SH-S5Y5, and Schwann neuronal cells (healthy control) were evaluated, using a colorimetric 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazole bromide (MTT) reduction technique. The selective cytotoxicity extracts were analyzed using liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (LC/MS2). We isolated 19 endophytic and soil-associated microorganisms from both cacti. Two of them were selected for their high percentages of tumor growth inhibition. The microorganism ES4 possessed the best activity with an IC50 of 17.31 ± 1.70 µg/mL and a selectivity index of 3.11. We identified the bacterium Stenotrophomonas maltophilia by matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF MS) from the most active microorganisms against tumor growth. LC/MS2 characterized the HS4 extract, and the most abundant group (50.0%) identified included carboxylic acids and derivatives, particularly bisgerayafolin A, Cyclo (Pro-Leu), maculosin, and tryptophan. In conclusion S. maltophilia extract inhibit the growth of glioma cells, showing greater sensitivity in the U87 cell line. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Implications of Bioactive Compounds in Lifelong Disorders)
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

12 pages, 1471 KiB  
Article
A Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial (RCT) Evaluating the Efficacy of an Exosome-Containing Plant Extract Formulation for Treating Male Alopecia
by Farahnaz Amini, Jing Ju Teh, Chung Keat Tan, Eugenie Sin Sing Tan and Edmond Siah Chye Ng
Life 2025, 15(3), 500; https://doi.org/10.3390/life15030500 - 20 Mar 2025
Viewed by 1124
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Hair loss affects self-esteem, confidence, and psychological well-being. Exosomes, as molecular carriers of growth factors and active compounds, offer a promising treatment. This study evaluates the efficacy of an exosome formulation containing extracts from two known hair-regenerating plants, Ecklonia cava and [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Hair loss affects self-esteem, confidence, and psychological well-being. Exosomes, as molecular carriers of growth factors and active compounds, offer a promising treatment. This study evaluates the efficacy of an exosome formulation containing extracts from two known hair-regenerating plants, Ecklonia cava and Thuja orientalis (ECPE), for male pattern alopecia. Methods: A randomized controlled trial included 20 male participants with Norwood grade 2–3 androgenetic alopecia who were randomly assigned into two groups, placebo (0.9% sodium chloride) and ECPE, administered bi-weekly across four sessions. Evaluations included hair density measurements, adverse effect tracking, and self-assessments. Results: Most participants (55%) were aged 18 to 35, with 75% reporting hair loss for over a year and 80% noting scalp thinning. The hair counts showed no significant change in the placebo group from baseline to week 16 (Wilcoxon signed-rank test: V = 13.5, p = 0.163), while a significant increase was observed in the ECPE group (V = 0, p = 0.002). Between-group analysis revealed a significant difference in the hair count changes (Wilcoxon rank-sum test: W = 86.5, p = 0.006) with a large effect size (Cliff’s Delta: & = 0.73, 95% CI: 0.41–0.89), with the ECPE group showing higher median hair growth (9.5, IQR = 16.88) compared to the placebo group (1.5, IQR = 3.00). A Bayesian ANCOVA, adjusted for covariates (the father’s scalp hair condition, baseline hair count, and Norwood classification), showed no significant effect of these factors on the outcomes. Conclusions: These findings suggest that ECPE significantly improves hair regrowth compared to the placebo, with no notable adverse effects. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Implications of Bioactive Compounds in Lifelong Disorders)
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

16 pages, 2788 KiB  
Article
Tangeretin Unravels Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Fatty Liver Disease in Rats by Enhancing the IRS/Akt Pathway
by Ittipon Yuenyong, Prapassorn Potue, Putcharawipa Maneesai, Juthamas Khamseekaew, Apiwan Manimmanakorn, Metee Iampanichakul and Poungrat Pakdeechote
Life 2025, 15(3), 491; https://doi.org/10.3390/life15030491 - 18 Mar 2025
Viewed by 336
Abstract
Excessive high-fat diet (HFD) intake can precipitate metabolic dysfunction-associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD). Tangeretin is a citrus flavonoid possessing many biological properties. We examined the impact of tangeretin on MAFLD and its underlying mechanism. Rats were given HFD plus 15% fructose solution for [...] Read more.
Excessive high-fat diet (HFD) intake can precipitate metabolic dysfunction-associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD). Tangeretin is a citrus flavonoid possessing many biological properties. We examined the impact of tangeretin on MAFLD and its underlying mechanism. Rats were given HFD plus 15% fructose solution for four months to produce metabolic syndrome. Metabolic syndrome rats were administered 100 mg/kg of metformin or 25 mg/kg of tangeretin for the last four weeks. HFD-induced increased body weight, liver weight, adipose tissue weight, fasting blood glucose, serum insulin, total triglyceride, total cholesterol, and free fatty acids and reduced adiponectin and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels in metabolic syndrome, which were alleviated by tangeretin (p < 0.05). Tangeretin stabilized alanine transaminase activity, liver catalase, and inflammatory and oxidative stress markers in HFD rats compared to untreated HFD rats (p < 0.05). Tangeretin reduced hepatic steatosis induced by HFD. Downregulation of hepatic insulin receptor substrate-1 (IRS-1) and protein kinase B (Akt) protein expression in metabolic syndrome rats was recovered by tangeretin (p < 0.05). Metformin, an antihyperglycemic drug, produced comparable effects to tangeretin. In conclusion, tangeretin attenuates metabolic disorders and fatty liver induced by HFD in rats. The underlying mechanisms involve reducing oxidative stress, and inflammation and enhancing insulin sensitivity. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Implications of Bioactive Compounds in Lifelong Disorders)
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

19 pages, 3328 KiB  
Article
Hepatoprotective Effects of Royal Jelly Against Vincristine-Induced Hepatotoxicity in Rats: A Biochemical and Molecular Study
by Rahime Erzincan, Cuneyt Caglayan, Fatih Mehmet Kandemir, Ebubekir İzol, Cihan Gür and Mustafa İleritürk
Life 2025, 15(3), 459; https://doi.org/10.3390/life15030459 - 14 Mar 2025
Viewed by 606
Abstract
Vincristine (VCR) is a chemotherapeutic agent classified as a vinca alkaloid. Royal jelly (RJ) is a significant bee product produced by worker bees, characterized by its high protein content. This study aims to investigate the protective effects of RJ against VCR-induced liver damage. [...] Read more.
Vincristine (VCR) is a chemotherapeutic agent classified as a vinca alkaloid. Royal jelly (RJ) is a significant bee product produced by worker bees, characterized by its high protein content. This study aims to investigate the protective effects of RJ against VCR-induced liver damage. VCR was intraperitoneally administered at a dose of 0.1 mg/kg body weight (b.w.) and RJ was orally administered at doses of 150 and 300 mg/kg b.w. Both treatments were applied to the rats on days 1–6 and 9–14. The composition of RJ was analyzed using LC-MS/MS, revealing the presence of 15 different phytochemical compounds with strong antioxidant properties. Serum samples obtained from the rats were analyzed for ALT, ALP, and AST levels. While these enzyme levels were significantly elevated in the VCR group, a notable reduction was observed following RJ administration. Additionally, SOD, CAT, GPx, and GSH antioxidant parameters, along with MDA levels, were evaluated in liver tissue samples. The results indicated a decrease in SOD, CAT, GPx, and GSH activities/levels and an increase in MDA levels in the VCR group. Furthermore, ELISA was used to assess JAK2, STAT3, and mTOR/PI3K/AKT signaling pathways. VCR administration led to a decrease in mTOR/PI3K/AKT levels and an increase in JAK2 and STAT3 levels. In addition, the mRNA transcription levels of inflammation (NF-κB, TNF-α, and IL-1β), endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress (IRE-1, GRP78, PERK, and ATF-6), and autophagy markers (LC3A and LC3B) were examined. A significant increase in inflammation, ER stress, and autophagy-related markers was observed in the VCR-treated group. Lastly, the protein expression levels of Bax, Bcl-2, Caspase-3, and NF-κB were evaluated. VCR treatment increased Bax, Caspase 3, and NF-κB levels, whereas Bcl-2 levels were decreased. However, following RJ administration, all these parameters were reversed, demonstrating significant improvements. In conclusion, these findings suggest that RJ may exert a protective effect against VCR-induced liver damage. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Implications of Bioactive Compounds in Lifelong Disorders)
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

21 pages, 11403 KiB  
Article
Antitumor Effects of Quercetin and Luteolin in A375 Cutaneous Melanoma Cell Line Are Mediated by Upregulation of P-ERK, c-Myc, and the Upstream GPER
by Shaymaa A. Hussein, Nidaa A. Ababneh, Noor Tarawneh, Mohammad A. Ismail, Abdalla Awidi and Shtaywy Abdalla
Life 2025, 15(3), 417; https://doi.org/10.3390/life15030417 - 7 Mar 2025
Viewed by 777
Abstract
Cutaneous melanoma (CM) is the most aggressive and fatal malignancy among other skin cancers and its incidence has risen steadily recently around the world. Hormone-related therapy, particularly estrogen (E2) has been used as a prospective strategy for CM treatment. Quercetin and luteolin are [...] Read more.
Cutaneous melanoma (CM) is the most aggressive and fatal malignancy among other skin cancers and its incidence has risen steadily recently around the world. Hormone-related therapy, particularly estrogen (E2) has been used as a prospective strategy for CM treatment. Quercetin and luteolin are flavonoids with antitumor effects against a wide range of cancers including CM. However, the underlying mechanism of their actions through GPER in CM is not fully understood. We examined the anti-tumor effects of quercetin and luteolin on the A375 CM cell line through activation of the G-protein coupled estrogen receptor (GPER). MTT assay was performed to assess the impact of flavonoids on cell viability. Apoptosis and cell cycle were studied by flow cytometry. Cell migration was evaluated by transwell assay. GPER expression and the effect of the flavonoids on the key signaling proteins were confirmed by immunofluorescence staining and Western blot, respectively. Results showed that quercetin and luteolin inhibited proliferation and migration, induced apoptosis, and blocked the cell cycle at S and G2/M in A375 cells. Immunofluorescence and immunoblotting data demonstrated the presence of GPER in this cell line and the two flavonoids enhanced its expression except at the high concentration of 100 µM. Quercetin and luteolin enhanced P-ERK and c-Myc expression, an effect abolished by the GPER antagonist G15, confirming GPER-mediated signaling. In conclusion, quercetin and luteolin exhibited anti-tumor effects on A375 melanoma cells via GPER activation, suggesting their potential as anti-melanoma therapeutics. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Implications of Bioactive Compounds in Lifelong Disorders)
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

15 pages, 1334 KiB  
Article
Physiological and Metabolic Effects of Opuntia ficus indica spp. Peel Formulations
by José Arias-Rico, Iris Cristal Hernández-Ortega, Osmar Antonio Jaramillo-Morales, Nelly del Socorro Cruz-Cansino, Quinatzin Yadira Zafra-Rojas, Olga Rocío Flores-Chávez, Rosa María Baltazar-Téllez and Esther Ramírez-Moreno
Life 2025, 15(2), 148; https://doi.org/10.3390/life15020148 - 22 Jan 2025
Viewed by 978
Abstract
The objective of this study is to determine the physiological and metabolic effects of administration of dietary fiber formulations to male Wistar rats. The study population was divided into five groups to which food and water were orally administered ad libitum (control), alongside [...] Read more.
The objective of this study is to determine the physiological and metabolic effects of administration of dietary fiber formulations to male Wistar rats. The study population was divided into five groups to which food and water were orally administered ad libitum (control), alongside Psyllium plantago, sennosides A and B, cactus pear peel powder, and cactus pear peel tablet powder for 28 days. Body weight, biochemical parameters, fecal moisture, and intestinal transit were determined. The administration of the fiber formulations did not cause differences between the groups and they maintained a healthy weight; however, the consumption of the cactus pear peel tablet powder decreased serum glucose (127.85 ± 5.37 to 68.30 ± 12.48 mg/dL) in rats in a similar form to Psyllium plantago (127.85 ± 5.37 to 96.96 ± 3.26 mg/dL) in comparison with commercial products for rats, and the cactus pear peel powder had lower triglyceride levels (49.52 to 74.44 mg/dL) than commercial products at the end of the treatment. The samples maintained normal HDL levels with the exception of Psyllium plantago that had a decrease in treatment after 28 days. The administration of formulations of dietary fiber of cactus pear peel had physiological and metabolic effects similar to those of commercial products without change in the growth of the animals. Therefore, it could be used in the pharmaceutical or food industry. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Implications of Bioactive Compounds in Lifelong Disorders)
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

14 pages, 3306 KiB  
Article
Persicaria minor (Huds.) Opiz Exhibits Antihypertensive Effects by Inhibiting the Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme/Angiotensin II Type 1 Receptor Pathway in Human Endothelial Cells
by Nur Syakirah Othman, Nur Syahidah Nor Hisam, Amanina Athirah Mad Azli, Nur Izzati Mansor, Adila A. Hamid, Amilia Aminuddin, Nur Najmi Mohamad Anuar, Mohd Faizal Ahmad and Azizah Ugusman
Life 2024, 14(11), 1486; https://doi.org/10.3390/life14111486 - 14 Nov 2024
Viewed by 1051
Abstract
Overactivation of the angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE)/angiotensin II type 1 receptor (AT1R) pathway leads to vasoconstriction and elevated blood pressure. Persicaria minor (Huds.) Opiz is an herbal plant known for its antioxidant, anti-hyperlipidemic, and anti-atherosclerotic properties, with bioactive compounds that exhibit antihypertensive effects. Therefore, [...] Read more.
Overactivation of the angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE)/angiotensin II type 1 receptor (AT1R) pathway leads to vasoconstriction and elevated blood pressure. Persicaria minor (Huds.) Opiz is an herbal plant known for its antioxidant, anti-hyperlipidemic, and anti-atherosclerotic properties, with bioactive compounds that exhibit antihypertensive effects. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the antihypertensive effects of the standardized aqueous extract of P. minor leaf (AEPM) through the ACE/AT1R pathway in human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) induced with phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate (PMA). HUVECs were stimulated with PMA to induce ACE, with or without AEPM or captopril treatment, for 24 h. Subsequently, ACE mRNA expression, ACE protein levels, ACE activity, angiotensin II levels, and AT1R expression were measured. The results demonstrated that AEPM treatment significantly reduced ACE mRNA expression, ACE protein levels, ACE activity, angiotensin II levels, and AT1R expression in PMA-induced HUVECs. The modulatory effects of AEPM on the ACE/AT1R pathway were comparable to those of captopril. Ex vivo experiments further confirmed that AEPM reduced the contraction responses of rat aortic rings to PMA. In conclusion, P. minor effectively inhibits the ACE/AT1R pathway in PMA-induced HUVECs, suggesting its potential as a natural antihypertensive agent. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Implications of Bioactive Compounds in Lifelong Disorders)
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

24 pages, 6598 KiB  
Article
Biogenic Synthesis of Silver Nanoparticles Mediated by Aronia melanocarpa and Their Biological Evaluation
by Andreia Corciovă, Cornelia Mircea, Adrian Fifere, Ioana-Andreea Turin-Moleavin, Irina Roşca, Irina Macovei, Bianca Ivănescu, Ana-Maria Vlase, Monica Hăncianu and Ana Flavia Burlec
Life 2024, 14(9), 1211; https://doi.org/10.3390/life14091211 - 23 Sep 2024
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2000
Abstract
In the present study, two A. melanocarpa berry extracts were used for the synthesis of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs). After the optimization of synthesis, the AgNPs were characterized using UV–Vis, FTIR, EDX, DLS, and STEM analyses. The stability in different media, phytotoxicity, as well [...] Read more.
In the present study, two A. melanocarpa berry extracts were used for the synthesis of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs). After the optimization of synthesis, the AgNPs were characterized using UV–Vis, FTIR, EDX, DLS, and STEM analyses. The stability in different media, phytotoxicity, as well as antimicrobial and antioxidant activities were also evaluated. The ideal synthesis conditions were represented by a 3 mM AgNO3 concentration, 1:9 extract:AgNO3 volume ratio, alkaline medium, and stirring at 40 °C for 120 min. The synthesis was confirmed by the surface plasmon resonance (SPR) peak at 403 nm, and the strong signal at 3 keV from the EDX spectra. FTIR analysis indicated that polyphenols, polysaccharides, and amino acids could be the compounds responsible for synthesis. Stability tests and the negative zeta potential values showed that phytocompounds also play a role in the stabilization and capping of AgNPs. The preliminary phytotoxicity studies on T. aestivum showed that both the extracts and their corresponding AgNPs had an impact on the growth of roots and shoots as well as on the microscopic structure of leaves. The synthesized AgNPs presented antimicrobial activity against S. aureus, E. coli, and C. albicans. Moreover, considering the results obtained in the lipoxygenase inhibition, the DPPH and hydroxyl scavenging activities, and the ferrous ion chelating assay, AgNPs exhibit promising antioxidant activity. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Implications of Bioactive Compounds in Lifelong Disorders)
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

Review

Jump to: Research, Other

14 pages, 2991 KiB  
Review
Overview of the Ruspolia Plant Genus: Insights into Its Chemical Diversity and Biological Potential
by Christian Bailly and Gérard Vergoten
Life 2025, 15(2), 221; https://doi.org/10.3390/life15020221 - 2 Feb 2025
Viewed by 680
Abstract
The genus Ruspolia refers to a small group of plants in the Acanthaceae family, with two dominant species R. decurrens and R. hypocrateriformis essentially distributed in tropical parts of Africa. Decoctions from these plants are used in folk medicine for the treatment of [...] Read more.
The genus Ruspolia refers to a small group of plants in the Acanthaceae family, with two dominant species R. decurrens and R. hypocrateriformis essentially distributed in tropical parts of Africa. Decoctions from these plants are used in folk medicine for the treatment of a few human pathologies but the active ingredients at the origin of the bioactivities have been little studied. Here, we give an insight into the main phytochemicals of the Ruspolia species published in the literature so far and their pharmacological properties. The flavone glycosides justicialosides A-B likely serve as antioxidant agents and free radical scavengers. Several pyrrolidine alkaloids have been isolated from these Ruspolia species, notably (nor)ruspolinone and a few related products. These molecules have attracted the interest of medicinal chemists, with different synthetic routes leading to ruspolinone and analogues. There are versatile operating procedures to synthesize (nor)ruspolinone isomers. Despite these chemical efforts, the pharmacology of ruspolinone remains largely unknown. A few other Ruspolia alkaloids have been isolated, notably the rare bispyrrolidine benzodioxin alkaloid hypercratine, possibly acting as a ligand of β2-adrenergic receptors. A phytochemical survey of the Ruspolia species sheds light on the diversity of products in this family to promote further investigations into the mechanism of action of ruspolinone and related natural products. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Implications of Bioactive Compounds in Lifelong Disorders)
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

Other

Jump to: Research, Review

16 pages, 670 KiB  
Systematic Review
The Impact of Cannabidiol Treatment on Anxiety Disorders: A Systematic Review of Randomized Controlled Clinical Trials
by Carly de Faria Coelho, Rodolfo P. Vieira, Osvaldo Soares Araújo-Junior, Pedro Sardinha Leonardo Lopes-Martins, Larissa Gomes dos Santos, Lucas Danilo Dias, Alberto Souza de Sá Filho, Patrícia Sardinha Leonardo, Sandro Dutra e Silva and Rodrigo Alvaro Brandão Lopes-Martins
Life 2024, 14(11), 1373; https://doi.org/10.3390/life14111373 - 25 Oct 2024
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 5308
Abstract
Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) is a common psychiatric condition characterized by persistent and excessive worry, often accompanied by dysautonomic symptoms that significantly impact patients’ well-being. Cannabidiol (CBD), a non-psychoactive compound derived from cannabis, has shown potential as an anxiolytic through its partial agonism [...] Read more.
Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) is a common psychiatric condition characterized by persistent and excessive worry, often accompanied by dysautonomic symptoms that significantly impact patients’ well-being. Cannabidiol (CBD), a non-psychoactive compound derived from cannabis, has shown potential as an anxiolytic through its partial agonism of the 5HT-1A receptor and its negative allosteric modulation of CB1 receptors, which may help mitigate the anxiogenic effects of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). This study evaluates the impact of CBD on individuals diagnosed with various anxiety disorders, comparing its effects to placebo and conventional pharmaceutical treatments through a systematic review of randomized controlled trials (RCTs). A systematic search of RCTs published between 2013 and 2023 was conducted across three databases using the terms “cannabidiol” and “anxiety”. Out of the 284 articles identified, 11 met the eligibility criteria. The studies reviewed varied widely in terms of the types of anxiety disorders and CBD dosages examined, leading to results that were often contradictory. Despite these conflicting outcomes, the data suggest that CBD may reduce anxiety with minimal adverse effects when compared to a placebo. However, further RCTs with improved methodologies, encompassing a broad range of doses and continuous CBD administration across specific anxiety disorders, are needed. Unlike previous studies and meta-analyses, this review encompasses a broader spectrum of anxiety disorders and a variety of study designs and dosages, providing a more nuanced understanding of CBD’s potential efficacy across different conditions. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Implications of Bioactive Compounds in Lifelong Disorders)
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

Show export options expand_more Show export options expand_less
Select all
Export citation of selected articles as:
 
Displaying articles 1-10
Back to TopTop