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Therapeutic Potential of Natural Products in Internal Diseases

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A special issue of Pharmaceuticals (ISSN 1424-8247). This special issue belongs to the section "Natural Products".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: closed (25 February 2025) | Viewed by 24935

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Special Issue Editors

Dr. Dorin Dragoş

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Guest Editor

First Department, Medical Semiology, Faculty of Medicine, “Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Bucharest, Romania
Interests: phytotherapy; herbal medicine; integrative medicine; pshychosomatics; internal medicine; nephrology; cardiovascular; neurovascular; diabetes
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Dr. Adelina Vlad

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Guest Editor

Physiology Department, Faculty of Medicine, “Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050474 Bucharest, Romania
Interests: atherosclerosis; coronary artery disease; scavenger receptors; anesthetic preconditioning; endothelial progenitor cells; non coding RNA; nutraceuticals; phytocompounds
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

In the last decades tremendous progress has been made in the discovery of new drugs for the treatment of internal diseases, changing the prognostics and course of these diseases. However, important, often severe or even life-threatening side effects mar the employment of these novel treatments. Despite the statements in the guidelines, patients are not actually encouraged to perform the much-needed lifestyle changes that would make at least some of these new drugs less necessary, if at all, especially for the management of cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, obesity, dyslipidemia, and chronic obstructive lung disease. There are many instances of inappropriate employment of conventional drugs in the treatment of symptoms/disorders for which those drugs are not indicated, such as antibiotics for viral diseases, coronary heart disease medication for unspecific (including psychosomatic) chest pain, blood pressure-lowering medication for emotion-related fluctuations in blood pressure, etc., and many honest practitioners acknowledge that they should use something else, but lack the trust in or knowledge of alternative therapies. A large segment of the population prefers alternative treatments, one of the most popular being herbal treatments. Individuals relying on alternative therapies are more amenable to health-promoting lifestyle changes.

Unfortunately, among the researchers and practitioners of mainstream medicine there is a high degree of skepticism about the effectiveness of natural products, given the paucity and low quality of evidence supporting it. Let us, those that understand the considerable and insufficiently tapped potential of natural products, provide high-quality studies and reviews promoting the use of these products.

Dr. Dorin Dragoş
Dr. Adelina Vlad
Guest Editors

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Keywords

medicinal plants
phytotherapy
herbal treatment
natural products
herbalism
traditional medicine
cardiovascular disease
lung disease
liver disease
gastrointestinal disease
kidney disease
obesity
diabetes
rheumatological disease

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Published Papers (12 papers)

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Research

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27 pages, 764 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effects of Carnosine Supplementation on Cognitive Outcomes in Prediabetes and Well-Controlled Type 2 Diabetes: A Randomised Placebo-Controlled Clinical Trial

by Rohit Hariharan, Aya Mousa, Kirthi Menon, Jack Feehan, Barbara Ukropcová, Jozef Ukropec, Martin Schön, Arshad Majid, Giancarlo Aldini, Maximilian de Courten, James Cameron, Simon M. Bell and Barbora de Courten

Pharmaceuticals 2025, 18(5), 630; https://doi.org/10.3390/ph18050630 - 26 Apr 2025

Viewed by 566

Abstract

Background: Trends in global ageing underscore the rising burden of age-related cognitive decline and concomitant cardiometabolic diseases, including type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Carnosine, a naturally occurring dipeptide with anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and anti-glycating properties, has shown promise in animal models and limited human studies for improving cognitive function, insulin resistance and T2DM, but its therapeutic effects on cognition remain unclear. The aim of this study is to assess the effects of carnosine on cognitive function in individuals with prediabetes or well-controlled T2DM. Methods: This is a secondary analysis of a double-blind randomised controlled trial (RCT), whereby 49 adults with prediabetes or early-stage well-controlled T2DM were randomised to receive 2 g of carnosine or identical placebo daily for 14 weeks. At baseline and follow-up, cognitive function was assessed as a secondary outcome using the Digit-Symbol Substitution Test, Stroop test, Trail Making Tests A & B, and the Cambridge Automated Neuropsychological Test Battery (CANTAB). Results: In total, 42 adults (23 males and 19 females) completed the trial. There were no differences in participant anthropometry or cognitive functioning between carnosine and placebo groups at baseline (all p > 0.1). After the 14-week supplementation period, there were no differences between carnosine and placebo groups in change and follow-up values for any cognitive measures including Stroop, Digit Symbol Substitution Sest, Trail Making A/B or CANTAB (all p > 0.05). Adjustments for baseline cognitive scores, diabetic status, level of education, age or interaction effects with participants’ sex did not change the results. Conclusions: Carnosine supplementation did not improve cognitive measures in individuals with prediabetes or T2DM in this study. While larger trials may provide further insights, alternative factors—such as the relatively young and healthy profile of our cohort—may have contributed to the lack of observed effect. Future research should examine individuals with existing cognitive impairment or those at higher risk of cognitive decline to better define the therapeutic potential of carnosine in this context. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Therapeutic Potential of Natural Products in Internal Diseases)

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20 pages, 4911 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Therapeutic Potential of Qilianxiaopi Formula: Targeting ADAM17-Mediated Chronic Inflammation in Atrophic Gastritis

by Sijing Du, Tianxiang Wang, Zhiqiang Li, Ting Li, Zelong Miao, Yuling Chen, Songbiao Zhu, Wei Wei and Haiteng Deng

Pharmaceuticals 2025, 18(3), 435; https://doi.org/10.3390/ph18030435 - 19 Mar 2025

Viewed by 711

Abstract

Background: Gastric cancer (GC) is a leading cause of mortality worldwide, particularly in China. Chronic atrophic gastritis (CAG) and intestinal metaplasia (IM) are recognized as precancerous conditions contributing to GC development. Qilianxiaopi formula (QLXP), a traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), has demonstrated significant therapeutic effects on CAG and IM; however, its underlying mechanisms remain poorly understood. Methods: This study utilized chromatography-mass spectrometry to identify the major compounds in QLXP. Network pharmacology was used to predict the associated targets of these components. Thermal proteome profiling (TPP) pinpointed the potential binding proteins of QLXP, which were validated by bioinformatic analyses. Bio-layer interferometry (BLI) was used to analyze the interactions between QLXP and its key target proteins, thereby determining their binding components. Molecular docking predicted the binding modes between the components and proteins. Results: ADAM17 was identified as a key binding protein for QLXP. Further investigation revealed that QLXP inhibits the enzymatic activity of ADAM17, thereby reducing the secretion of the pro-inflammatory cytokine TNF-α, contributing to the anti-inflammatory properties of QLXP. BLI confirmed direct and reversible binding interactions between QLXP and ADAM17. Narirutin, isolated from the ADAM17 binding fraction, displayed the highest affinity for QLXP. Conclusions: This study highlights ADAM17 as a key molecular target of QLXP and narirutin as its principal binding component. The integrated approach combining chromatography-mass spectrometry, network pharmacology, TPP, BLI, and molecular docking provides a robust framework for elucidating the mechanisms of action of TCM. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Therapeutic Potential of Natural Products in Internal Diseases)

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19 pages, 3898 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Cardioprotective Effects of Ferulic Acid Through Inhibition of Advanced Glycation End Products in Diabetic Rats with Isoproterenol-Induced Myocardial Infarction

by Sarah Ouda Bekheit, Eman Kolieb, El-Sayed E. El-Awady, Maha Abdullah Alwaili, Afaf Alharthi and Dina M. Khodeer

Pharmaceuticals 2025, 18(3), 319; https://doi.org/10.3390/ph18030319 - 25 Feb 2025

Viewed by 569

Abstract

Background/Objectives: Myocardial infarction (MI) and diabetes pose significant health challenges globally, necessitating the development of innovative medication strategies to improve outcomes in affected populations. This research aimed to determine the defensive impact of ferulic acid (FA) against isoproterenol-induced myocardial infarction (MI) in diabetic rats. Methods: A group of male rats was partitioned into five distinct groups: control group, diabetic group, diabetic + MI, diabetic + MI + 20 mg/kg FA, and diabetic + MI + 40 mg/kg FA. The experimental groups received isoproterenol (ISO) subcutaneously at a dosage of 50 mg/kg body weight for two consecutive days. Results: The outcome was severe cardiac toxicity, as shown by changes in electrocardiogram (ECG) rhythm and a substantial increase in blood cardiac enzymes such as creatinine kinase (CK-MB), cardiac troponin I (cTnI), and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH). Additionally, there was a surge in inflammatory cytokines, like tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), and a disruption of the antioxidant system, evidenced by a rise in malondialdehyde (MDA) content. Moreover, there was a rise in cardiac receptor of advanced glycation end products (RAGE). Treatment with FA with escalating dosages of 20 and 40 mg/kg b.w. effectively mitigated changes in serum cardiac enzymes and improved the cellular architecture, which was evaluated by histopathological examination. Conclusions: In conclusion, in a dose-dependent manner, FA successfully showed a cardioprotective effect against ISO-induced cardiac toxicity in diabetic rats, as shown by the improvement in ECG findings, normalization of serum cardiac biomarkers, and augmentation of the endogenous antioxidant system. Therefore, the aforementioned data indicate that ferulic acid may potentially have a protective effect on MI patients who have diabetes mellitus. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Therapeutic Potential of Natural Products in Internal Diseases)

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18 pages, 752 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Quercetin Intake and Absolute Telomere Length in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus: Novel Findings from a Randomized Controlled Before-and-After Study

by Aikaterini E. Mantadaki, Stella Baliou, Manolis Linardakis, Elena Vakonaki, Manolis N. Tzatzarakis, Aristides Tsatsakis and Emmanouil K. Symvoulakis

Pharmaceuticals 2024, 17(9), 1136; https://doi.org/10.3390/ph17091136 - 29 Aug 2024

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 3183

Abstract

Telomeres, the protective chromosomal ends, progressively shorten and potentially are implicated in the pathogenesis of age-related diseases. In type 2 diabetes (T2DM), telomere shortening may play an important role, but the whole ‘picture’ remains limited. From a therapeutic perspective, the phytonutrient quercetin appears to be clinically effective and safe for patients with T2DM. Considering the above, we aimed to examine whether quercetin could interfere with telomere length (TL) dynamics. One hundred patients with T2DM on non-insulin medications registered within a primary healthcare facility were stratified by age and sex and randomly assigned to either standard care or standard care plus quercetin (500 mg/day) for 12 weeks, succeeded by an 8-week washout period and another 12 weeks of supplementation. Of the 88 patients completing the trial, 82 consented to blood sampling for TL measurements. Health assessments and whole blood absolute TL measurements using quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) were conducted at baseline and study end, and the findings of this subcohort are presented. Quercetin supplementation was associated with a significant increase in mean TL (odds ratio ≥ 2.44; p < 0.05) with a strengthened association after full adjustment for potential confounders through multiple logistic regression analysis (odds ratio = 3.48; p = 0.026), suggesting it as a potentially promising supplementation option. Further studies are needed to confirm this finding, elucidating the underlying molecular mechanisms of quercetin. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Therapeutic Potential of Natural Products in Internal Diseases)

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21 pages, 4509 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effects of Ganjianglingzhu Decoction on Lean Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease in Mice Based on Untargeted Metabolomics

by Nan Tang, Lei Ji, Xinyu Shi, Yalan Xiong, Xinying Xiong, Hanhua Zhao, Hualing Song, Jianying Wang, Lei Zhang, Shengfu You, Guang Ji, Baocheng Liu and Na Wu

Pharmaceuticals 2024, 17(4), 502; https://doi.org/10.3390/ph17040502 - 15 Apr 2024

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 2066

Abstract

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is usually associated with obesity. However, it is crucial to recognize that NAFLD can also occur in lean individuals, which is frequently overlooked. Without an approved pharmacological therapy for lean NAFLD, we aimed to investigate whether the Ganjianglingzhu (GJLZ) decoction, a representative traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), protects against lean NAFLD and explore the potential mechanism underlying these protective effects. The mouse model of lean NAFLD was established with a methionine-choline-deficient (MCD) diet in male C57BL/6 mice to be compared with the control group fed the methionine-choline-sufficient (MCS) diet. After four weeks, physiological saline, a low dose of GJLZ decoction (GL), or a high dose of GJLZ decoction (GH) was administered daily by gavage to the MCD group; the MCS group was given physiological saline by gavage. Untargeted metabolomics techniques were used to explore further the potential mechanism of the effects of GJLZ on lean NAFLD. Different doses of GJLZ decoction were able to ameliorate steatosis, inflammation, fibrosis, and oxidative stress in the liver; GL performed a better effect on lean NAFLD. In addition, 78 candidate differential metabolites were screened and identified. Combined with metabolite pathway enrichment analysis, GL was capable of regulating the glucose and lipid metabolite pathway in lean NAFLD and regulating the glycerophospholipid metabolism by altering the levels of sn-3-O-(geranylgeranyl)glycerol 1-phosphate and lysoPC(P-18:0/0:0). GJLZ may protect against the development of lean NAFLD by regulating glucose and lipid metabolism, inhibiting the levels of sn-3-O-(geranylgeranyl)glycerol 1-phosphate and lysoPC(P-18:0/0:0) in glycerophospholipid metabolism. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Therapeutic Potential of Natural Products in Internal Diseases)

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19 pages, 1941 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Anti-Inflammatory and Anti-Adipocyte Dysfunction Effects of Ficus lindsayana Latex and Root Extracts

by Jirarat Karinchai, Pensiri Buacheen, Daraphan Rodthayoy, Tanpitcha Yodweerapong, Arisa Imsumran, Ariyaphong Wongnoppavich, Bhanumas Chantarasuwan, Uthaiwan Suttisansanee, Piya Temviriyanukul and Pornsiri Pitchakarn

Pharmaceuticals 2024, 17(3), 287; https://doi.org/10.3390/ph17030287 - 23 Feb 2024

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2133

Abstract

Low-grade chronic inflammation and adipocyte dysfunction are prominent risk factors of insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) in obesity. Thus, prevention of inflammation and adipocyte dysfunction could be one possible approach to mitigate T2DM development. Several Ficus species have been used in traditional medicine for ameliorating inflammation and T2DM. Our previous studies reported biological effects of Ficus lindsayana including antioxidant, anti-cancer, and anti-α-glucosidase activities. Further, this study therefore investigated whether F. lindsayana latex (FLLE) and root (FLRE) extracts inhibit inflammation-stimulated insulin resistance in adipocytes and inflammation in macrophages. FLLE and FLRE (200 µg/mL) had no significant cytotoxicity for macrophages, adipocytes, and blood cells (PBMCs and RBCs). FLRE had a total flavonoid content about three times higher than FLLE, while both had similar levels of total phenolic content. FLRE showed higher abilities than FLLE in suppressing inflammation in both macrophages and adipocytes and reversing the inflammation-induced insulin resistance in adipocytes. In TNF-α-induced adipocytes, FLRE significantly improved insulin-induced glucose uptake and insulin-suppressed lipolysis, while FLLE only significantly improved glucose uptake. Moreover, FLRE and FLLE remarkably reduced chemoattractant (MCP-1) but improved adipogenic (PPARγ and CEBPα) gene expression, leading to the promotion of adipogenesis and the suppression of insulin resistance. In LPS-induced macrophages, FLRE, but not FLLE, significantly inhibited LPS-induced NO production. Moreover, FLRE significantly reduced LPS-stimulated iNOS, COX-2, IL-1β, IL-6, and TNF-α gene expression. These results may provide the potential data for the development of this plant, especially the root part, as an alternative medicine, functional ingredient, or food supplement for the prevention of inflammation and obesity-associated insulin resistance, as well as T2DM. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Therapeutic Potential of Natural Products in Internal Diseases)

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20 pages, 1033 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Chemical Composition, Antioxidant, Anticancer, and Antibacterial Activities of Roots and Seeds of Ammi visnaga L. Methanol Extract

by Ibrahim M. Aziz, Rawan M. Alshalan, Humaira Rizwana, Fetoon Alkhelaiwi, Abdulaziz M. Almuqrin, Reem M. Aljowaie and Noorah A. Alkubaisi

Pharmaceuticals 2024, 17(1), 121; https://doi.org/10.3390/ph17010121 - 17 Jan 2024

Cited by 9 | Viewed by 2965

Abstract

For centuries, plants and their components have been harnessed for therapeutic purposes, with Ammi visnaga L. (Khella) being no exception to this rich tradition. While existing studies have shed light on the cytotoxic and antimicrobial properties of seed extracts, there remains a noticeable gap in research about the antimicrobial, antioxidant, and anticancer potential of root extracts. This study seeks to address this gap by systematically examining methanol extracts derived from the roots of A. visnaga L. and comparing their effects with those of seed extracts specifically against breast cancer cells. Notably, absent from previous investigations, this study focuses on the comparative analysis of the antimicrobial, antioxidant, and anticancer activities of both root and seed extracts. The methanol extract obtained from A. visnaga L. seeds demonstrated a notably higher level of total phenolic content (TPC) than its root counterpart, measuring 366.57 ± 2.86 and 270.78 ± 2.86 mg GAE/g dry weight of the dry extract, respectively. In the evaluation of antioxidant activities using the DPPH method, the IC₅₀ values for root and seed extracts were determined to be 193.46 ± 17.13 μg/mL and 227.19 ± 1.48 μg/mL, respectively. Turning our attention to cytotoxicity against breast cancer cells (MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231), both root and seed extracts displayed similar cytotoxic activities, with IC₅₀ values of 92.45 ± 2.14 μg/mL and 75.43 ± 2.32 μg/mL, respectively. Furthermore, both root and seed extracts exhibited a noteworthy modulation of gene expression, upregulating the expression of caspase and Bax mRNA levels while concurrently suppressing the expression of anti-apoptotic genes (Bcl-xL and Bcl-2), thereby reinforcing their potential as anticancer agents. A. visnaga L. seed extract outperforms the root extract in antimicrobial activities, exhibiting lower minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) of 3.81 ± 0.24 to 125 ± 7.63 μg/mL. This highlights the seeds’ potential as potent antibacterial agents, expanding their role in disease prevention. Overall, this study underscores the diverse therapeutic potentials of A. visnaga L. roots and seeds, contributing to the understanding of plant-derived extracts in mitigating disease risks. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Therapeutic Potential of Natural Products in Internal Diseases)

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Review

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19 pages, 1214 KiB

Open AccessReview

Vatairea Genus as a Potential Therapeutic Agent—A Comprehensive Review of Ethnobotanical, Phytochemical, and Pharmacological Properties

by Sarah Andrade Toledo, Laryssa Danielle da Silva Reis, Brenda Costa da Conceição, Lucas Villar Pedrosa da Silva Pantoja, Fábio José Coelho de Souza-Junior, Flávia Cristina Santos Garcez, Cristiane Socorro Ferraz Maia and Eneas Andrade Fontes-Junior

Pharmaceuticals 2025, 18(3), 422; https://doi.org/10.3390/ph18030422 - 17 Mar 2025

Viewed by 519

Abstract

The Vatairea genus (Fabaceae family) is widespread in the Amazon rainforest. Some species of this genus are known for their ethnobotanical significance and biological potential. The present study explores the pharmacological and promising therapeutic activities, ethnobotanical profile, and phytochemical prospection of Vatairea sp., a monophyletic group of flowering plants, which includes economically and culturally important genera due to their diverse uses, including medicinal applications. V. lundellii, V. guianensis, V. erythrocarpa, V. fusca, V. heteroptera, V. paraensis, V. sericea, and V. macrocarpa are included in the Vatairea sp., also recognized for its high wood quality and potential medicinal properties. Studies show significant antibacterial activity in V. guianensis extracts against Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, whereas V. macrocarpa lectin exhibits broad-spectrum antibacterial effects, including modulation of antibiotic resistance. Additionally, V. macrocarpa and V. guianensis have demonstrated antifungal properties, with compounds like Vatacarpan exhibiting potent activity against Candida sp. In vivo studies highlight the neurotoxic effects of V. macrocarpa lectin, suggesting a dual role in the central nervous system. Despite these findings, research on Vatairea’s toxicological aspects is limited, with only a few studies on V. macrocarpa and V. guianensis extracts indicating a need for further exploration of this genus’ pharmacological and therapeutic potential. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Therapeutic Potential of Natural Products in Internal Diseases)

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21 pages, 1093 KiB

Open AccessReview

Current Utilization and Research Status of Herbal Medicine Sipjeondaebotang for Anemia: A Scoping Review

by Gyeongmuk Kim, Han-Gyul Lee, Won Jung Ha and Seungwon Kwon

Pharmaceuticals 2024, 17(9), 1192; https://doi.org/10.3390/ph17091192 - 10 Sep 2024

Viewed by 1720

Abstract

Background/Objectives: Anemia is a global health issue affecting diverse populations, particularly older adults, and conventional treatments often show limited efficacy. This study aimed to evaluate the utilization and effectiveness of Sipjeondaebotang (SDT), a prescription drug used in traditional East Asian medicine, in treating various types of anemia. Methods: A scoping review was conducted following Arksey and O’Malley’s framework and PRISMA-ScR guidelines. Six electronic databases were searched for clinical studies on SDT, while focusing on human participants and excluding animal and cellular studies. Sixteen studies, including nine randomized controlled trials, two controlled clinical trials, two case series, and three case reports, involving 863 participants, were analyzed. These studies were primarily conducted in China, Korea, and Japan. Results: According to the analysis, SDT improved hemoglobin levels across all types of anemia studied, with all controlled studies showing significant improvements compared with the control groups. Additionally, SDT reduced blood loss, improved recovery times, and decreased transfusion requirements in patients with post-operative anemia, with lower adverse event rates than those in the control groups. These findings suggest that SDT may enhance hematological parameters and improve overall patient outcomes. Conclusions: In conclusion, SDT may be an effective treatment for anemia that improves hemoglobin levels and patient outcomes. However, further high-quality, large-scale studies are necessary to standardize SDT prescriptions, confirm the optimal treatment duration, and validate its efficacy and safety across different anemia types. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Therapeutic Potential of Natural Products in Internal Diseases)

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20 pages, 2519 KiB

Open AccessReview

Potential of Bitter Medicinal Plants: A Review of Flavor Physiology

by Germán Zuluaga

Pharmaceuticals 2024, 17(6), 722; https://doi.org/10.3390/ph17060722 - 3 Jun 2024

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2351

Abstract

The function of the sense of taste is usually confined to the ability to perceive the flavor of food to assess and use the nutrients necessary for healthy survival and to discard those that may be harmful, toxic, or unpleasant. It is almost unanimously agreed that the perception of bitter taste prevents the consumption of toxins from plants, decaying foods, and drugs. Forty years ago, while practicing medicine in a rural area of the Colombian Amazon, I had an unexpected encounter with the Inga Indians. I faced the challenge of accepting that their traditional medicine was effective and that the medicinal plants they used had a real therapeutic effect. Wanting to follow a process of learning about medicinal plants on their terms, I found that, for them, the taste of plants is a primary and fundamental key to understanding their functioning. One of the most exciting results was discovering the therapeutic value of bitter plants. The present review aims to understand whether there is any scientific support for this hypothesis from the traditional world. Can the taste of plants explain their possible therapeutic benefit? In the last 20 years, we have made novel advances in the knowledge of the physiology of taste. Our purpose will be to explore these scientific advances to determine if the bitter taste of medicinal plants benefits human health. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Therapeutic Potential of Natural Products in Internal Diseases)

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17 pages, 1028 KiB

Open AccessReview

Anticancer Potential and Molecular Targets of Pristimerin in Human Malignancies

by Kirti S. Prabhu, Serah Jessy, Shilpa Kuttikrishnan, Farina Mujeeb, Zahwa Mariyam, Ummu Habeeba, Nuha Ahmad, Ajaz A. Bhat and Shahab Uddin

Pharmaceuticals 2024, 17(5), 578; https://doi.org/10.3390/ph17050578 - 30 Apr 2024

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2321

Abstract

The growing global burden of malignant tumors with increasing incidence and mortality rates underscores the urgent need for more effective and less toxic therapeutic options. Herbal compounds are being increasingly studied for their potential to meet these needs due to their reduced side effects and significant efficacy. Pristimerin (PS), a triterpenoid from the quinone formamide class derived from the Celastraceae and Hippocrateaceae families, has emerged as a potent anticancer agent. It exhibits broad-spectrum anti-tumor activity across various cancers such as breast, pancreatic, prostate, glioblastoma, colorectal, cervical, and lung cancers. PS modulates several key cellular processes, including apoptosis, autophagy, cell migration and invasion, angiogenesis, and resistance to chemotherapy, targeting crucial signaling pathways such as those involving NF-κB, p53, and STAT3, among others. The main objective of this review is to provide a comprehensive synthesis of the current literature on PS, emphasizing its mechanisms of action and molecular targets with the utmost clarity. It discusses the comparative advantages of PS over current cancer therapies and explores the implications for future research and clinical applications. By delineating the specific pathways and targets affected by PS, this review seeks to offer valuable insights and directions for future research in this field. The information gathered in this review could pave the way for the successful development of PS into a clinically applicable anticancer therapy. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Therapeutic Potential of Natural Products in Internal Diseases)

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19 pages, 2502 KiB

Open AccessReview

Evaluating the Potential of Plukenetia volubilis Linneo (Sacha Inchi) in Alleviating Cardiovascular Disease Risk Factors: A Mini Review

by Izzat Zulhilmi Abd Rahman, Nur Syahidah Nor Hisam, Amilia Aminuddin, Adila A. Hamid, Jaya Kumar and Azizah Ugusman

Pharmaceuticals 2023, 16(11), 1588; https://doi.org/10.3390/ph16111588 - 9 Nov 2023

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 3553

Abstract

Plukenetia volubilis Linneo or Sacha Inchi (SI), a traditional natural remedy indigenous to Peru and Brazil, has garnered global attention due to its exceptional nutritional composition. Its protective effects against various non-communicable diseases, notably cardiovascular disease (CVD), have become a subject of interest in recent research. This comprehensive review summarizes the existing evidence from 15 relevant articles concerning the impact of SI on common CVD risk factors, including dyslipidemia, obesity, diabetes, and hypertension. The relevant articles were derived from comprehensive searches on PubMed, Scopus, Google Scholar, and Web of Science using predefined criteria and keywords related to the topic. Overall, SI demonstrated positive effects in attenuating dyslipidemia, obesity, diabetes, and hypertension. The multifaceted mechanisms responsible for the protective effects of SI against these CVD risk factors are primarily attributed to its antioxidative and anti-inflammatory properties. While preclinical studies dominate the current scientific literature on SI, there are limited clinical trials to corroborate these findings. Therefore, future well-designed, large-scale randomized clinical trials are highly recommended to establish the efficacy of SI and determine its optimal dosage, potential drug and food interactions, and practical integration into preventive strategies and dietary interventions for the high-risk populations. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Therapeutic Potential of Natural Products in Internal Diseases)

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