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Search Results (192)

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Keywords = cardioprotective plants

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58 pages, 1801 KB  
Review
Medicinal Plants and Phytochemicals in Cardioprotection—Mechanistic Pathways and Translational Roadmap
by Diana Maria Morariu-Briciu, Alex-Robert Jîjie, Sorin Lucian Bolintineanu, Ana-Maria Pah, Sorin Dan Chiriac, Adelina Chevereșan, Victor Dumitrașcu, Cătălin Prodan Bărbulescu and Radu Jipa
Life 2026, 16(1), 175; https://doi.org/10.3390/life16010175 - 21 Jan 2026
Abstract
Despite major advances in guideline-directed cardiovascular therapy, residual cardiovascular risk persists, partly driven by oxidative stress, chronic inflammation, endothelial dysfunction, and mitochondrial injury not fully addressed by current drugs. Translation of plant-based cardioprotectants is constrained by preparation-dependent variability in extract chemistry (plant part/cultivar/processing [...] Read more.
Despite major advances in guideline-directed cardiovascular therapy, residual cardiovascular risk persists, partly driven by oxidative stress, chronic inflammation, endothelial dysfunction, and mitochondrial injury not fully addressed by current drugs. Translation of plant-based cardioprotectants is constrained by preparation-dependent variability in extract chemistry (plant part/cultivar/processing and extraction method), low and variable systemic exposure for key actives (notably curcuminoids and many polyphenols), and clinically relevant safety/interaction considerations (e.g., hepatotoxicity reports with concentrated green tea extracts and antiplatelet-related bleeding-risk considerations for some botanicals). We therefore provide a mechanism- and translation-oriented synthesis of evidence for cardioprotective botanicals, chosen for long-standing traditional use and scientific validation with reproducible experimental data and, where available, human studies, including Crataegus monogyna, Allium sativum, Olea europaea, Ginkgo biloba, Leonurus cardiaca, and Melissa officinalis. Across studies, polyphenols (especially flavonoids and phenolic acids) and organosulfur compounds are most consistently associated with cardioprotection, while terpene-derived constituents and secoiridoids contribute mechanistically in plant-specific settings (e.g., Ginkgo and Olea). Predominantly in experimental models, these agents engage redox-adaptive (Nrf2), mitochondrial (mPTP), endothelial, and inflammatory (NF-κB) pathways, with reported reductions in ischemia–reperfusion injury, oxidative damage, and apoptosis. Clinical evidence remains heterogeneous and is largely confined to short-term studies and surrogate outcomes (blood pressure, lipids, oxidative biomarkers, endothelial function), with scarce data on hard cardiovascular endpoints or event reduction. Priorities include standardized, chemotype-controlled formulations with PK/PD-guided dosing and adequately powered randomized trials that assess safety and herb–drug interactions. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Pharmaceutical Science)
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12 pages, 1217 KB  
Article
Osthole Activates FGF21 Expression by Mediating Activation of ATF4 in Human Hepatocyte HepG2 Cells
by Akishi Taguchi, Masaya Araki, Tomoya Yamashita, Ryo Kanazawa, Itsuki Terao, Kyohei Suzuki, Yuhei Tsuchimoto, Takashi Matsuzaka, Hirohito Sone, Hitoshi Shimano and Yoshimi Nakagawa
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2026, 27(2), 1003; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms27021003 - 19 Jan 2026
Viewed by 36
Abstract
Osthole is a natural coumarin derivative found in several medicinal plants, including Cnidium monnieri and Angelica pubescens. It has been studied for its various biological properties, such as anti-inflammatory, neuroprotective, osteogenic, cardioprotective, antimicrobial, and antiparasitic effects. Osthole was found to induce Fibroblast [...] Read more.
Osthole is a natural coumarin derivative found in several medicinal plants, including Cnidium monnieri and Angelica pubescens. It has been studied for its various biological properties, such as anti-inflammatory, neuroprotective, osteogenic, cardioprotective, antimicrobial, and antiparasitic effects. Osthole was found to induce Fibroblast growth factor 21 (FGF21) expression. Among the known transcription factors that regulate FGF21 induction, activating transcription factor 4 (ATF4) expression was found to be upregulated by osthole. Additionally, as osthole induced ATF4 downstream gene expression, it was concluded that it activates ATF4 signaling. ATF4 knockdown significantly suppressed osthole-mediated induction of FGF21 expression. These findings suggest that osthole activates FGF21 expression via ATF4 activation. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Phytochemicals and Antioxidants in Health and Disease Modulation)
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32 pages, 1557 KB  
Review
Probiotic and Bioactive Compounds in Foods: From Antioxidant Properties to Gut Microbiota Modulation
by Berta Gonçalves, Alice Vilela, Alfredo Aires, Ivo Oliveira, Carla Gonçalves, Teresa Pinto and Fernanda Cosme
Molecules 2026, 31(2), 345; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules31020345 - 19 Jan 2026
Viewed by 37
Abstract
Dietary bioactive compounds derived from plant-based and fermented foods act as plei-otropic modulators of human health, exerting antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, cardiopro-tective, neuroprotective, and metabolic effects beyond basic nutrition. Whole foods (fruits, vegetables, grains, nuts) provide synergistic mixtures of bioactives, whereas fermented foods generate a [...] Read more.
Dietary bioactive compounds derived from plant-based and fermented foods act as plei-otropic modulators of human health, exerting antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, cardiopro-tective, neuroprotective, and metabolic effects beyond basic nutrition. Whole foods (fruits, vegetables, grains, nuts) provide synergistic mixtures of bioactives, whereas fermented foods generate a wide range of microbial-derived metabolites (peptides, organic acids) as well as probiotics that enhance nutrient bioavailability and support gut health. The gut microbiota plays a central mediating role in the biological effects of dietary bioactives through a dynamic, bidirectional interaction: dietary compounds shape microbial composition by promoting beneficial taxa and suppressing pathogens, while microbial metabolism converts these compounds into bioactive metabolites, including short-chain fatty acids, that profoundly influence host health. Despite their demonstrated health potential, the clinical translation of many dietary bioactives is limited by low bioavailability, which is influenced by digestion processes, food matrix and processing conditions, host genetics, and individual microbiota profile. Overcoming these limitations requires a deeper understanding of the synergistic interactions among dietary bioactives, probiotics, microbial metabolites, and host signaling pathways. This review provides an integrated perspective of the sources, mechanisms of action, and health effects of food-derived bioactive compounds and probiotic mediated effects, while highlighting current translational challenges and future directions for the development of effective functional foods and personalized nutrition strategies. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Exploring Bioactive Compounds in Foods and Nutrients for Human Health)
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23 pages, 2220 KB  
Article
Amaryllidaceae Alkaloids and Phenolic Acids Identification in Leucojum aestivum L. Plant Cultures Exposed to Different Temperature Conditions
by Agata Ptak, Marzena Warchoł, Emilia Morańska, Dominique Laurain-Mattar, Rosella Spina, François Dupire, Piotr Waligórski and Magdalena Simlat
Molecules 2026, 31(2), 258; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules31020258 - 12 Jan 2026
Viewed by 222
Abstract
Amaryllidaceae alkaloids are of notable pharmacological relevance. For instance, galanthamine is used in the treatment of Alzheimer’s disease, while other alkaloids (lycorine, crinine, etc.) derived from Amaryllidaceae plants are also of great interest because they exhibit antitumour, antiviral, antibacterial, antifungal, antimalarial, analgesic and [...] Read more.
Amaryllidaceae alkaloids are of notable pharmacological relevance. For instance, galanthamine is used in the treatment of Alzheimer’s disease, while other alkaloids (lycorine, crinine, etc.) derived from Amaryllidaceae plants are also of great interest because they exhibit antitumour, antiviral, antibacterial, antifungal, antimalarial, analgesic and cytotoxic properties. Phenolic acids comprise a group of natural bioactive substances that have commercial value in the cosmetic, food and medicinal industries due to their antioxidant, anticancer, anti-inflammatory and cardioprotective potential. In the present study, the effect of temperature (15, 20, 25 and 30 °C) on Amaryllidaceae alkaloid and phenolic acid biosynthesis in Leucojum aestivum in vitro plant cultures was investigated. The highest diversity of alkaloids (i.e., galanthamine, crinan-3-ol, demethylmaritidine, crinine, 11-hydroxyvitattine, lycorine, epiisohaemanthamine, chlidanthine) was noted in plants cultured at 30 °C. By contrast, ismine and tazettine were only present in plants cultured at 15 °C. Temperatures of 20 °C and 30 °C were found to stimulate galanthamine accumulation. The highest lycorine content was noted in plants grown at temperatures of 15 and 30 °C, and it was negatively correlated with the expression of the gene that encodes the cytochrome P450 96T (CYP96T) enzyme which catalyses a key step in the biosynthesis of different types of Amaryllidaceae alkaloids. This observation may reflect temperature-induced shifts in metabolic flux among different branches of Amaryllidaceae alkaloid biosynthesis. The observed stimulating effect of a 15 °C temperature on the chlorogenic, caffeic, p-coumaric, sinapic, ferulic and isoferulic acid content was in line with the highest expression of a gene that encodes the tyrosine decarboxylase (TYDC) enzyme, which is involved in plant stress response mechanisms. At 30 °C, however, the highest content of the caffeic, vanillic, p-coumaric and isoferulic acids was noted. Full article
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19 pages, 931 KB  
Review
Plant-Forward Dietary Approaches to Reduce the Risk of Cardiometabolic Disease Among Hispanic/Latinx Adults Living in the United States: A Narrative Review
by Franze De La Calle, Joanna Bagienska and Jeannette M. Beasley
Nutrients 2026, 18(2), 220; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu18020220 - 10 Jan 2026
Viewed by 225
Abstract
Background: Cardiometabolic risk (CMR), including obesity, dyslipidemia, hypertension, and impaired glucose regulation, disproportionately affects Hispanic/Latinx adults in the United States (U.S.). Although plant-forward dietary patterns are established as cardioprotective, less is known about how dietary patterns within Hispanic/Latinx subgroups relate to CMR. [...] Read more.
Background: Cardiometabolic risk (CMR), including obesity, dyslipidemia, hypertension, and impaired glucose regulation, disproportionately affects Hispanic/Latinx adults in the United States (U.S.). Although plant-forward dietary patterns are established as cardioprotective, less is known about how dietary patterns within Hispanic/Latinx subgroups relate to CMR. Methods: A narrative review was conducted of observational studies among U.S. Hispanic/Latinx adults (≥18 years) examining defined dietary patterns (a priori, a posteriori, or hybrid) in relation to CMR outcomes (e.g., BMI, waist circumference, blood pressure, glucose, lipids). Risk of bias was assessed using an adapted version of the Newcastle–Ottawa Scale. Results: Ten studies met the inclusion criteria, including Seventh-day Adventist Latinx, Puerto Rican adults, Mexican American adults, Hispanic women, and a national Hispanic cohort. Plant-forward dietary patterns were associated with lower BMI and waist circumference, lower triglycerides and fasting glucose, and higher HDL-C. In contrast, energy-dense patterns characterized by refined grains, added sugars, processed meats, fried foods, solid fats, and sugar-sweetened beverages were associated with greater adiposity, poorer lipid profiles, and higher blood pressure. Traditional rice-and-beans–based patterns observed in Puerto Rican and Mexican American groups were associated with central adiposity and higher metabolic syndrome prevalence, despite modestly higher intakes of fruits, vegetables, and fiber. Study quality ranged from good (n = 4) to very good (n = 6). Conclusions: Across Hispanic/Latinx subgroups, plant-forward dietary patterns were associated with favorable cardiometabolic profiles, whereas refined and animal-based patterns aligned with higher CMR. Given the predominance of cross-sectional evidence, these findings should be interpreted as associative rather than causal. Culturally grounded dietary counseling, along with additional longitudinal and intervention studies, is needed to support cardiometabolic health in these populations. Full article
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23 pages, 7764 KB  
Article
Dose- and Time-Dependent Modulation of Cx43 and Cx45 Expression and Gap Junction Conductance by Resveratrol
by Gintarė Jančiukė, Rokas Mickus, Vytautas Raškevičius, Vytenis Arvydas Skeberdis and Ieva Sarapinienė
Antioxidants 2026, 15(1), 88; https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox15010088 - 9 Jan 2026
Viewed by 363
Abstract
Plant extracts are rich in various bioactive compounds, such as polyphenols, flavonoids, tannins, terpenoids, phenolic acids, saponins, alkaloids, and polysaccharides. Antioxidant polyphenols are increasingly attracting attention, not only as dietary components but also as valuable food industry byproducts. Resveratrol, present in a wide [...] Read more.
Plant extracts are rich in various bioactive compounds, such as polyphenols, flavonoids, tannins, terpenoids, phenolic acids, saponins, alkaloids, and polysaccharides. Antioxidant polyphenols are increasingly attracting attention, not only as dietary components but also as valuable food industry byproducts. Resveratrol, present in a wide range of plants, is well recognized for its diverse biological activities, including antioxidant, antitumor, cardioprotective, and neuroprotective effects. Given the importance of intercellular communication in these physiological processes, gap junctions (GJs) composed of connexin (Cx) family proteins are of particular interest because they provide a direct pathway for electrical and metabolic signaling and are key players in maintaining normal organ function and cell development. Aberrations of GJ intercellular communication (GJIC) may result in the progression of cardiovascular and neurological diseases and tumorigenesis. Cx43 and Cx45 play crucial roles in cardiac excitation and contraction, and alterations in their expression are associated with disrupted impulse propagation and the development of arrhythmias. In this study, for the first time, we performed a comparative analysis of the effect of resveratrol on Cx43 and Cx45 GJIC using molecular modeling, a dual whole-cell patch-clamp technique to directly measure GJ conductance (gj), and other approaches. Our results revealed that resveratrol accomplished the following: (1) inhibited GJ gj in Cx43- but enhanced it in Cx45-expressing HeLa cells; (2) exerted dose- and time-dependent changes in Cx expression and plaque size; (3) reduced cell viability and proliferation; (4) and altered Cx43 phosphorylation patterns linked to gating and plaque stability. Overall, resveratrol modulates GJIC in a dose-, time-, and connexin type-specific manner. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Natural and Synthetic Antioxidants)
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18 pages, 781 KB  
Review
Comparative Review of Cardioprotective Potential of Various Parts of Sambucus nigra L., Sambucus williamsii Hance, and Their Products
by Beata Olas
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2026, 27(1), 460; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms27010460 - 1 Jan 2026
Viewed by 373
Abstract
The genus Sambucus L. consists of about 29 recognized species (including 7 different genera that have berry fruit) distributed in all regions of the world. The most popular species are Sambucus nigra L., Sambucus cerulean Raf., and Sambucus javanica Blume, of which the [...] Read more.
The genus Sambucus L. consists of about 29 recognized species (including 7 different genera that have berry fruit) distributed in all regions of the world. The most popular species are Sambucus nigra L., Sambucus cerulean Raf., and Sambucus javanica Blume, of which the European elderberry is widely used commercially. S. williamsii Hance (commonly known as Jiegumu) is endemic to China and is a valued variety of elderberry. S. nigra L. is one of the oldest medicinal plants. The herbal materials used in treatment and nutrition are its fruits, flowers, roots, leaves, and bark. Various parts of S. williamsii, including its fruit, flower, root, leaf, and stem, are also specifically used in Traditional Chinese Medicine. Additionally, berries and flowers of S. nigra L. have become a very popular inclusion in supplements, beverages, and foods in recent years. It is important that Sambucus plants are rich sources of various bioactive compounds, which determine their biological activities, such as antioxidant, antidiabetic, antimicrobial, and anti-inflammation. However, one of the most extensively studied species is S. nigra L. Among the different parts of this plant, the fruits and flowers are of particular interest due to their rich bioactive components. The aim of the present review is to provide and compare an overview of the cardioprotective potential of various parts not only of S. nigra L., but also of S. williamsii Hance, and their products in various models. Moreover, cardioprotective mechanisms of their main chemical constituents were demonstrated in this paper to provide a basis for further study and development. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Bioactives and Nutraceuticals)
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30 pages, 2720 KB  
Review
Nutritional Regulation of Cardiac Metabolism and Function: Molecular and Epigenetic Mechanisms and Their Role in Cardiovascular Disease Prevention
by Lucia Capasso, Donato Mele, Rosaria Casalino, Gregorio Favale, Giulia Rollo, Giulia Verrilli, Mariarosaria Conte, Paola Bontempo, Vincenzo Carafa, Lucia Altucci and Angela Nebbioso
Nutrients 2026, 18(1), 93; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu18010093 - 27 Dec 2025
Viewed by 600
Abstract
Background: Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) remain the leading cause of mortality worldwide and are strongly influenced by dietary habits. Beyond caloric intake, nutrients act as molecular signals that regulate cardiac metabolism, mitochondrial function, inflammation, and epigenetic remodeling. Objectives: This review aims to synthesize [...] Read more.
Background: Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) remain the leading cause of mortality worldwide and are strongly influenced by dietary habits. Beyond caloric intake, nutrients act as molecular signals that regulate cardiac metabolism, mitochondrial function, inflammation, and epigenetic remodeling. Objectives: This review aims to synthesize current evidence on how dietary patterns and specific nutritional interventions regulate cardiac metabolism and function through interconnected molecular and epigenetic mechanisms, highlighting their relevance for cardiovascular disease prevention. Methods: A narrative review of the literature was conducted using PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science, focusing on studies published between 2006 and 2025. Experimental, translational, and clinical studies addressing diet-induced modulation of cardiac metabolic pathways, oxidative and inflammatory signaling, epigenetic regulation, and gut microbiota-derived metabolites were included. Results: The analyzed literature consistently shows that unbalanced diets rich in saturated fats and refined carbohydrates impair cardiac metabolic flexibility by disrupting key nutrient-sensing pathways, including AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK), proliferator-activated receptor alpha (PPARα), mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR), and sirtuin 1/peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma coactivator 1-alpha (SIRT1/PGC-1α), leading to mitochondrial dysfunction, oxidative stress, chronic inflammation, and maladaptive remodeling. In contrast, cardioprotective dietary patterns, such as caloric restriction (CR), intermittent fasting (IF), and Mediterranean and plant-based diets, enhance mitochondrial efficiency, redox balance, and metabolic adaptability. These effects are mediated by coordinated activation of AMPK-SIRT1 signaling, suppression of mTOR over-activation, modulation of nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells (NF-κB) and nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) pathways, and favorable epigenetic remodeling involving DNA methylation, histone modifications, and non-coding RNAs. Emerging evidence also highlights the central role of gut microbiota-derived metabolites, particularly short-chain fatty acids, in linking diet to epigenetic and metabolic regulation of cardiac function. Conclusions: Diet quality emerges as a key determinant of cardiac metabolic health, acting through integrated molecular, epigenetic, and microbiota-mediated mechanisms. Targeted nutritional strategies can induce long-lasting cardioprotective metabolic and epigenetic adaptations, supporting the concept of diet as a modifiable molecular intervention. These findings provide a mechanistic rationale for integrating personalized nutrition into cardiovascular prevention and precision cardiology, complementing standard pharmacological therapies. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Molecular Mechanisms of Diet-Associated Cardiac Metabolism)
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23 pages, 11203 KB  
Article
Complexed Linalool with Beta-Cyclodextrin Improve Antihypertensive Activity: Pharmacokinetic and Pharmacodynamic Insights
by Samuel Camargo, Carla Medeiros, Liliane Silva, Rafael Leonne Jesus, Fênix Araujo, Daniele Brito, Quiara Alves, Raiana Moraes, Valdeene Santos, Francine Azeredo, Adriano Araújo, Lucindo Quintans-Júnior and Darizy Silva
Pharmaceuticals 2026, 19(1), 37; https://doi.org/10.3390/ph19010037 - 23 Dec 2025
Viewed by 373
Abstract
Background: Arterial hypertension (AH) remains a global health concern due to its multifactorial etiology, limited therapeutic success, and high cardiovascular risk. In this context, plant-derived compounds such as essential oils have gained attention as alternative strategies. The monoterpene (-)-linalool (LIN) demonstrates antihypertensive effects. [...] Read more.
Background: Arterial hypertension (AH) remains a global health concern due to its multifactorial etiology, limited therapeutic success, and high cardiovascular risk. In this context, plant-derived compounds such as essential oils have gained attention as alternative strategies. The monoterpene (-)-linalool (LIN) demonstrates antihypertensive effects. However, its clinical application is hampered by poor solubility and low bioavailability. Methods: This study aimed to investigate the chronic cardiovascular effects of free LIN and its inclusion complex with β-cyclodextrin (LIN/β-CD) in spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR) and normotensive Wistar rats. Results: Pharmacokinetic analysis showed that complexation with β-CD markedly improved LIN plasma exposure, increasing systemic bioavailability by approximately 20-fold and prolonging its circulation time. In acute assays, intravenous LIN and LIN/β-CD (50 mg/kg) reduced blood pressure in SHR, LIN induced bradycardia, and LIN/β-CD elicited a mild, non-significant tachycardia. Orally administered LIN/β-CD exerted superior antihypertensive effects compared to free LIN. In a 60-day chronic regimen, LIN/β-CD consistently maintained reduced arterial pressure, achieving levels comparable to normotensive controls, while free LIN produced transient effects. LIN/β-CD also significantly reduced the cardiac mass index in SHR, suggesting attenuation of hypertrophic remodeling. Vascular reactivity assays revealed enhanced endothelium-dependent and -independent relaxation and diminished vasoconstriction in LIN/β-CD-treated animals, indicating improved endothelial and smooth muscle function. Histological analyses confirmed the absence of cardiac or vascular injury in both treatment groups. Conclusions: In conclusion, the LIN/β-CD complex improves the pharmacokinetic profile and enhances the arterial morphology, antihypertensive and cardioprotective effects of linalool. These findings support its translational potential as a safe and effective oral formulation for the long-term management of hypertension and associated cardiovascular dysfunction. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Pharmacology)
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26 pages, 3534 KB  
Review
Phytochemistry, Bioactivity, and Toxicological Duality of Oxytropis glabra DC: A Review
by Karlygash Raganina, Akerke Amirkhanova, Sholpan Akhelova, Aiman Berdgaleyeva, Meruyert Amantayeva, Elmira Kartbayeva, Aigul Kaldybayeva, Madi Nurlybayev, Yerbol Ikhsanov, Nurzhan Iztileu, Zhanserik Shynykul and Moldir Koilybayeva
Molecules 2026, 31(1), 44; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules31010044 - 22 Dec 2025
Viewed by 405
Abstract
Oxytropis glabra DC, a Fabaceae species distributed across Central Asia, is characterized by a dual biological profile encompassing pronounced toxicity alongside promising pharmacological potential. This review synthesizes current knowledge on its phytochemistry, bioactivity, and toxicological liabilities to clarify the plant’s risk–benefit landscape. The [...] Read more.
Oxytropis glabra DC, a Fabaceae species distributed across Central Asia, is characterized by a dual biological profile encompassing pronounced toxicity alongside promising pharmacological potential. This review synthesizes current knowledge on its phytochemistry, bioactivity, and toxicological liabilities to clarify the plant’s risk–benefit landscape. The objectives are to summarize the dominant classes of metabolites identified in O. glabra, evaluate their toxicological and therapeutic relevance, and identify key gaps limiting translational research. O. glabra contains a diverse array of secondary metabolites, with quinolizidine and indolizidine alkaloids, including swainsonine, anagyrine, thermopsine, and sparteine, representing the primary determinants of toxicity. These compounds are associated with teratogenicity, neurotoxicity, and locoism through mechanisms involving α-mannosidase inhibition, disruption of glycoprotein processing, and impaired lysosomal homeostasis. In contrast, flavonoids such as quercetin, isoquercitrin, and kaempferol derivatives exhibit antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, hepatoprotective, and cardioprotective effects, while triterpenoid saponins and fatty acids contribute additional cytoprotective and metabolic activities. Despite extensive reports on both toxic and bioactive constituents, critical gaps remain regarding chemotype variability, dose–response relationships, and pharmacokinetics, which currently constrain therapeutic exploitation. Future research should prioritize defining safe exposure thresholds, elucidating structure–activity relationships, and developing standardized extracts or optimized derivatives that balance efficacy and safety. This integrative perspective highlights O. glabra as a chemically rich but biologically ambivalent species whose toxicological risks and pharmacological opportunities warrant systematic mechanistic investigation. Full article
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17 pages, 1421 KB  
Article
Bassia indica Attenuates Cardiotoxicity in a Rat Model via Anti-Inflammatory, Antioxidant, and Keap1/Nrf2 Modulation
by Fayyaz Anjum, Saad Touqeer, QurratUlAin Jamil, Ayesha Rida, Hafiz Muhammad Zubair, Adeel Sarfraz, Saleh Alfuraih, Waad Alrohily, Ali F. Almutairy, Ashfaq Ahmad, Mohammed Aufy and Shahid Muhammad Iqbal
Pharmaceuticals 2025, 18(12), 1907; https://doi.org/10.3390/ph18121907 - 18 Dec 2025
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 341
Abstract
Background: Drug-induced cardiotoxicity is a primary concern in clinical practice, especially in the context of oxidative stress induced by anti-cancer, antiviral, and antidiabetic drugs. Several strategies are devised to limit cardiotoxicity, which are supportive and provide symptomatic relief. This highlights the need [...] Read more.
Background: Drug-induced cardiotoxicity is a primary concern in clinical practice, especially in the context of oxidative stress induced by anti-cancer, antiviral, and antidiabetic drugs. Several strategies are devised to limit cardiotoxicity, which are supportive and provide symptomatic relief. This highlights the need to develop cardioprotective agents that circumvent the oxidative stress. Bassia indica is a cardiotonic plant with antioxidant properties traditionally used in Africa, South Asia, and China. We investigated its cardioprotective effects against doxorubicin-induced cardiotoxicity (DIC). Methods: B. indica extract (BiE) was analyzed by GC-MS and HPLC. Several antioxidant assays, including DPPH, FRAP, CUPRAC, NO, and H2O2 scavenging, were performed. In vivo attenuation of DIC was assessed in a rat model. Results: BiE contained several bioactive flavonoids, including 2-methoxy-4-vinylphenol, ferulic acid, gallic acid, kaempferol, and coumaric acid. Antioxidant assays demonstrated potent free-radical scavenging and antioxidant activity of BiE, providing mechanistic evidence for its in vivo amelioration of DIC. BiE treatment reduced myocardial oxidative stress by increasing endogenous antioxidant levels (p < 0.01), including SOD, CAT, and GSH. It upregulated Nrf2 and lowered Keap1 levels. This was also reflected in the restoration of cardiac tissue architecture and modulation of inflammatory markers, including IL-1β and TNF-α (p < 0.01). Cardiac tissue biomarkers were also improved. Conclusions: These findings conclude that BiE exerts cardiac protection by reducing oxidative stress and inflammation through modulation of the Keap1/Nrf2 pathway and decreasing the expression of IL-1β and TNF-α. Full article
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24 pages, 4187 KB  
Review
Climate-Driven Changes in the Nutritional Value and Food Safety of Legume Seeds
by Mateusz Labudda, Wesley Borges Wurlitzer, Tomasz Niedziński, Julia Renata Schneider, Jakub Frankowski, Szymon Florczak, Ewa Muszyńska, Mirosława Górecka, Monika Tomczykowa, Beata Prabucka, Anna Rybarczyk-Płońska, Wojciech Makowski, Maria Goreti de Almeida Oliveira, Katarzyna Leszczyńska, Iwona Morkunas, Noeli Juarez Ferla and Michał Tomczyk
Nutrients 2025, 17(23), 3703; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu17233703 - 26 Nov 2025
Viewed by 844
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Leguminous plants (Fabaceae) are essential for global food and nutritional security due to their high protein content, bioactive compounds, and ecological role in nitrogen fixation. However, climate change poses significant threats to their productivity, quality, and safety. This review aims to summarize [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Leguminous plants (Fabaceae) are essential for global food and nutritional security due to their high protein content, bioactive compounds, and ecological role in nitrogen fixation. However, climate change poses significant threats to their productivity, quality, and safety. This review aims to summarize the nutritional, biochemical, and health-related importance of legumes, while highlighting the effects of climate change—particularly heat stress and pest pressure—on their nutritional value and public health implications. Methods: This review is based on an integrative literature review drawing on scientific databases including Web of Science, Scopus, ScienceDirect, Google Scholar, and PubMed (March–October 2025). The relevant literature on climate change, legume composition, stress physiology, pest–plant interactions, and nutrition- and health-related outcomes was identified using targeted search terms. Evidence from diverse study types was synthesized to provide a broad, interdisciplinary perspective rather than a systematic assessment. Results: Legume seeds are rich in proteins, complex carbohydrates, fibers, and essential fatty acids, and contain valuable phytochemicals, including polyphenols, carotenoids, saponins, and bioactive peptides, with antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and cardioprotective effects. Nevertheless, elevated CO2 levels and temperature stress can reduce protein, iron, and zinc contents, while altering phenolic and isoflavone profiles. Simultaneously, warming enhances pest proliferation and fungal contamination, increasing mycotoxin exposure and associated health risks. Integrated pest management (IPM) strategies, particularly those emphasizing biological control, show promise in mitigating these risks while ensuring sustainable legume production. Conclusions: Safeguarding the nutritional and ecological value of legumes under changing climatic conditions requires coordinated efforts across plant breeding, agronomy, and food science. Enhancing thermotolerance and pest resistance, reducing pesticide use through IPM, and valorizing legume by-products are key to preserving food safety and human health. Legumes, thus, represent both a challenge and an opportunity in achieving resilient, climate-smart nutrition systems for future generations. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Food Security, Food Insecurity, and Nutritional Health)
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31 pages, 2036 KB  
Review
Cardiovascular Effects, Phytochemistry, Drug Interactions, and Safety Profile of Foeniculum vulgare Mill. (Fennel): A Comprehensive Review
by Amal Zahi, Amama Rani, Nahida Aktary, Muntajin Rahman, Hassane Mekhfi, Abderrahim Ziyyat, Moon Nyeo Park, Abdelkhaleq Legssyer and Bonglee Kim
Pharmaceuticals 2025, 18(11), 1761; https://doi.org/10.3390/ph18111761 - 19 Nov 2025
Viewed by 1797
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Cardiovascular diseases remain the leading cause of mortality worldwide. According to the World Heart Federation, more than 500 million people were living with cardiovascular diseases in 2021. In this context, the use of medicinal plants has become increasingly widespread in populations as [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Cardiovascular diseases remain the leading cause of mortality worldwide. According to the World Heart Federation, more than 500 million people were living with cardiovascular diseases in 2021. In this context, the use of medicinal plants has become increasingly widespread in populations as a preventive strategy against cardiovascular disorders. Foeniculum vulgare Mill., commonly known as fennel, is an aromatic and medicinal plant recognized for its beneficial properties in the treatment of various ailments, due to its richness in bioactive compounds. This review aims to summarize and analyze the cardiovascular activities of this plant, based on experimental evidence, and to provide an updated overview of its phytochemical composition and safety profile. Methods: A comprehensive literature search was conducted using databases including PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar, encompassing all publications available up to 2024. This search included research articles, reviews, mini-reviews, and clinical studies published in English. Exclusion criteria comprised publication types such as letters, conference abstracts, unpublished theses, and non-peer-reviewed reports. Studies were also excluded if they did not specifically address Foeniculum vulgare Mill. or its cardiovascular activities. All studies were screened according to predefined inclusion and exclusion criteria, and relevant data were systematically extracted and analyzed to synthesize current knowledge on the cardiovascular activities, mechanisms of action, phytochemical composition, safety, and potential drug interactions of Foeniculum vulgare Mill. Results: Numerous in vitro and in vivo studies have demonstrated that Foeniculum vulgare Mill. exhibits a wide range of activities beneficial for cardiovascular health. These include antihypertensive, cardioprotective, vasorelaxant, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, diuretic, hypotensive, hypolipidemic, antiplatelet, and anticoagulant effects. Such pharmacological actions are largely attributed to its rich phytochemical composition, particularly its volatile oils (e.g., trans-anethole, fenchone), flavonoids (e.g., quercetin, kaempferol), and phenolic acids (e.g., p-coumaric acid, ferulic acid). Most studies report no significant signs of toxicity. Conclusions: Foeniculum vulgare Mill. emerges as a promising medicinal plant for the prevention and management of cardiovascular diseases, owing to its multifaceted beneficial effects and its favorable safety profile. However, potential interactions with cardiovascular drugs and the current limitations of existing studies highlight the need for further clinical research to fully establish its therapeutic potential. Full article
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23 pages, 1706 KB  
Article
Polyphenol-Rich Citrullus lanatus Rind Extract Mitigates Doxorubicin-Induced Cardiotoxicity: HPLC Profiling and In Vivo Evaluation
by Bader Alsuwayt
Pharmaceutics 2025, 17(11), 1469; https://doi.org/10.3390/pharmaceutics17111469 - 14 Nov 2025
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Abstract
Background/Objectives: Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) remain a major cause of mortality globally, driven in part by oxidative stress and inflammation. The present study investigated the polyphenolic composition and cardioprotective potential of polyphenol-rich Citrullus lanatus (PRCL) rind extract against doxorubicin-induced cardiotoxicity in rats; Methods: [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) remain a major cause of mortality globally, driven in part by oxidative stress and inflammation. The present study investigated the polyphenolic composition and cardioprotective potential of polyphenol-rich Citrullus lanatus (PRCL) rind extract against doxorubicin-induced cardiotoxicity in rats; Methods: High-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) was employed to identify and quantify the major bioactive compounds present in the extract. Total 30 healthy male Wistar Kyoto rats were recruited and divided into 6 groups and various cardiovascular markers and antioxidant were measured in vivo and in vitro methods; Results: Ethanolic extraction of Citrullus lanatus rind yielded 19.58 g extract per 100 g of dry plant material. HPLC analysis identified five phenolic acids, i.e., gallic acid, p-hydroxybenzoic acid (PHBA), chlorogenic acid, caffeic acid, and vanillic acid, and two flavonoids, i.e., catechin and hesperetin, with PHBA (163.66 mg/g of extract) being the most abundant. Total phenolic and flavonoid content was determined to be 35.6 mg GAE/g and 12.8 mg CE/g, respectively. In vitro antioxidant assays showed moderate free radical scavenging, reducing power, and 86.9% inhibition of linoleic acid peroxidation. In vivo, Wistar rats were treated with doxorubicin (10 mg/kg) to induce cardiotoxicity, followed by PRCL extract administration (21 days at 250 and 500 mg/kg/day). The extract significantly improved body weight, serum lipid profile, and reduced cardiovascular risk indices. Antioxidant biomarkers (SOD, CAT, GPx, GSH) were restored, while lipid peroxidation (MDA) and inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-6) were significantly reduced in treated groups. The 500 mg/kg dose demonstrated superior efficacy, comparable to the standard quercetin group. Histopathological examination revealed notable protection of cardiac tissue architecture in the high-dose PRCL-500 group; Conclusions: These findings suggest that PRCL rind extract contains potent compounds having antioxidant and cardioprotective properties and may be used as a natural therapeutic agent against cardiotoxicity. Full article
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20 pages, 2719 KB  
Review
Research Progress on the Biological Activities and Clinical Applications of Pseudoprotodioscin
by Jie Li, Senling Feng, Zhenya Du, Zhuzhu Wu, Wei Mo, Xiaoming Chen, Jiancong Wu, Yanming Lin, Chunsong Cheng, Xinbing Sui and Qibiao Wu
Curr. Issues Mol. Biol. 2025, 47(11), 927; https://doi.org/10.3390/cimb47110927 - 6 Nov 2025
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Abstract
Background: Pseudoprotodioscin (PPD) is a prominent active steroidal saponin isolated from plants of the genus Dioscorea. Investigations have shown that PPD exhibits considerable biological activity and has great clinical potential. Methods: Dioscorea plants and pseudoprotodioscin were used as search terms for study [...] Read more.
Background: Pseudoprotodioscin (PPD) is a prominent active steroidal saponin isolated from plants of the genus Dioscorea. Investigations have shown that PPD exhibits considerable biological activity and has great clinical potential. Methods: Dioscorea plants and pseudoprotodioscin were used as search terms for study retrieval. Studies involving PPD were collected from a wide range of databases, including China National Knowledge Infrastructure, PubMed, Web of Science, and Elsevier, as well as relevant scientific websites. Results: PPD possesses multiple bioactive properties, such as anticancer, anti-inflammatory, hepatoprotective, and cardioprotective effects. Pharmacokinetic studies in rats indicated that PPD undergoes rapid excretion and has low bioavailability (5.7%), which need to develop a more effective drug delivery system to modify, such as lipid-based nanoparticles. Additionally, Chinese patent medicines containing PPD have shown promising clinical applications in related diseases. Conclusions: This review highlights the therapeutic potential of PPD and its related Chinese patent medicines, providing a foundation for future research and clinical development. Further studies are required to optimize the pharmacokinetic profile of PPD and explore its full pharmacological potential and underlying mechanisms. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Biochemistry, Molecular and Cellular Biology)
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