Molecular and Cellular Aspects of the Beneficial Effects of Natural Products on Chronic Diseases

Journal Name	Impact Factor	CiteScore	Launched Year	First Decision (median)	APC
Biomolecules biomolecules	4.8	9.4	2011	18.4 Days	CHF 2700
Cancers cancers	4.5	8.0	2009	17.4 Days	CHF 2900
Diseases diseases	2.9	0.8	2013	21.4 Days	CHF 1800
International Journal of Molecular Sciences ijms	4.9	8.1	2000	16.8 Days	CHF 2900
Nutrients nutrients	4.8	9.2	2009	13.5 Days	CHF 2900

14 pages, 1440 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Metabolite-Induced Apoptosis by Gundelia tournefortii in A549 Lung Cancer Cells: A Cytotoxic and Gene Expression Study

by Aysun Yuksel, Damla Nur Celayir, Ezgi Nurdan Yenilmez Tunoglu, Lütfi Tutar and Yusuf Tutar

Nutrients 2025, 17(3), 374; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu17030374 - 21 Jan 2025

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Abstract

Background/Objectives: Gundelia tournefortii (Kenger) is a traditional medicinal plant and exhibits potential anticancer properties. This study investigates the cytotoxic and apoptotic effects of its water extract on human lung carcinoma A549 cells. Methods: A lung cancer cell line was treated with Gundelia tournefortii [...] Read more.

Background/Objectives: Gundelia tournefortii (Kenger) is a traditional medicinal plant and exhibits potential anticancer properties. This study investigates the cytotoxic and apoptotic effects of its water extract on human lung carcinoma A549 cells. Methods: A lung cancer cell line was treated with Gundelia tournefortii extract. The metabolic content of the extract that plays key roles in anticancer was detected by high-performance liquid chromatography. Anticancer properties were further detected by a flow cytometer apoptosis assay, and signaling pathways were determined by a PCR array through hub gene expression alteration. Gene enrichment analysis and network pharmacology correlated metabolites and pathways that were involved in anticancer effects. Results: The metabolite content of G. tournefortii was analyzed, and gallic acid, clorogenic acid, hydroxybenzoic acid, caffeic acid, epicatechin, p-coumaric acid, salicylic acid, apigenin 7 glucoside, and cinnamic acid were detected as key compounds. Lung cancer cell line A549 was treated with the extract at increasing concentrations for 24, 48, and 72 h, and its effects on cell viability were determined by MTT analysis. A statistically significant difference was observed for IC₅₀ concentrations depending on incubation times. It was also observed that the G. tournefortii water extract significantly increased apoptosis in A549 cells in comparison with the control group. G. tournefortii extract’s effect on lung cancer cell line was measured using the signal pathway PCR array gene set. Gene enrichment analysis of the array expression data confirmed activation of apoptosis-related pathways, particularly the upregulation of BAX and downregulation of HSP90. Conclusions: These findings suggest that G. tournefortii metabolites provide promising selective anticancer drug candidates and potential drug templates to prevent side effects and resistance of current clinical drug treatments. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Molecular and Cellular Aspects of the Beneficial Effects of Natural Products on Chronic Diseases)

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20 pages, 1801 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Bioactive Molecules from the Exoskeleton of Procambarus clarkii: Reducing Capacity, Radical Scavenger, and Antitumor and Anti-Inflammatory Activities

by Francesco Longo, Francesca Di Gaudio, Alessandro Attanzio, Laura Marretta, Claudio Luparello, Serena Indelicato, David Bongiorno, Giampaolo Barone, Luisa Tesoriere, Ilenia Concetta Giardina, Giulia Abruscato, Manuela Perlotti, Lucie Branwen Hornsby, Vincenzo Arizza, Mirella Vazzana, Federico Marrone, Aiti Vizzini, Chiara Martino, Dario Savoca, Vinicius Queiroz, Antonio Fabbrizio and Manuela Mauro Show full author list Hide full author list

Biomolecules 2024, 14(12), 1635; https://doi.org/10.3390/biom14121635 - 20 Dec 2024

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1211

Abstract

This study evaluates, for the first time, the reducing capacity, radical scavenger activity, and in vitro antitumor and anti-inflammatory effects of chitosan, astaxanthin, and bio-phenols extracted from the exoskeleton of Sicilian Procambarus clarkii, the most widespread species of invasive crayfish in the [...] Read more.

This study evaluates, for the first time, the reducing capacity, radical scavenger activity, and in vitro antitumor and anti-inflammatory effects of chitosan, astaxanthin, and bio-phenols extracted from the exoskeleton of Sicilian Procambarus clarkii, the most widespread species of invasive crayfish in the Mediterranean region. Among the extracted compounds, astaxanthin exhibited the highest antioxidant activity in all assays. Chitosan and polyphenols demonstrated reducing and radical scavenging activity; chitosan showed significant ferric ion reducing capacity in the FRAP test, while bio-phenolic compounds displayed notable radical scavenging activity in the DPPH and ABTS assays. Both astaxanthin and polyphenols showed dose-dependent cytotoxicity on two different cancer cell lines, with IC50 values of 1.45 µg/mL (phenolic extract) and 4.28 µg/mL (astaxanthin extract) for HepG2 cells and 2.45 µg/mL (phenolic extract) and 4.57 µg/mL (astaxanthin extract) for CaCo-2 cells. The bio-phenolic extract also showed potential anti-inflammatory effects in vitro by inhibiting nitric oxide production in inflamed RAW 264.7 macrophages, reducing the treated/control NO ratio to 77% and 74% at concentrations of 1.25 and 1.5 μg/mL, respectively. These results suggest that P. clarkii exoskeletons could be a valuable source of bioactive molecules for biomedical, pharmaceutical, and nutraceutical application while contributing to the sustainable management of this invasive species. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Molecular and Cellular Aspects of the Beneficial Effects of Natural Products on Chronic Diseases)

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30 pages, 4137 KiB

Open AccessReview

Targeting Ferroptosis in Parkinson’s Disease: Mechanisms and Emerging Therapeutic Strategies

by Minghao Zhou, Keyang Xu, Jianxian Ge, Xingnian Luo, Mengyao Wu, Ning Wang and Jianfeng Zeng

Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2024, 25(23), 13042; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms252313042 - 4 Dec 2024

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2272

Abstract

Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a common neurodegenerative disorder characterized by the loss of dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra and the accumulation of α-synuclein in the brain. Ferroptosis, a recently identified form of regulated cell death, is critical in PD pathogenesis due to [...] Read more.

Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a common neurodegenerative disorder characterized by the loss of dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra and the accumulation of α-synuclein in the brain. Ferroptosis, a recently identified form of regulated cell death, is critical in PD pathogenesis due to its association with iron deposition, overproduction of reactive oxygen species, iron-dependent lipid peroxidation and impaired lipid peroxidation clearance. This cell death mechanism is closely linked to several pathogenic processes in PD, including α-synuclein aggregation, oxidative stress, mitochondrial dysfunction, microglia-induced neuroinflammation, and neuromelanin accumulation. Given the significant role of ferroptosis in these mechanisms, there is increasing interest in targeting ferroptosis for PD treatment. Several drugs have shown potential in alleviating PD symptoms by inhibiting ferroptosis. This review aims to consolidate current knowledge on ferroptosis in PD and assess the therapeutic potential of anti-ferroptosis drugs, highlighting promising directions for future research and clinical applications. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Molecular and Cellular Aspects of the Beneficial Effects of Natural Products on Chronic Diseases)

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35 pages, 2698 KiB

Open AccessReview

Molecular Targets of Plant-Derived Bioactive Compounds in Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma

by Gabriela Mitea, Verginica Schröder, Irina Mihaela Iancu, Horațiu Mireșan, Valeriu Iancu, Laura Adriana Bucur and Florin Ciprian Badea

Cancers 2024, 16(21), 3612; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers16213612 - 26 Oct 2024

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1876

Abstract

Background: With a significant increase in both incidence and mortality, oral cancer—particularly oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC)—is one of the main causes of death in developing countries. Even though there is evidence of advances in surgery, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy, the overall survival rate [...] Read more.

Background: With a significant increase in both incidence and mortality, oral cancer—particularly oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC)—is one of the main causes of death in developing countries. Even though there is evidence of advances in surgery, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy, the overall survival rate for patients with OSCC has improved, but by a small percentage. This may be due, on the one hand, to the fact that the disease is diagnosed when it is at a too-advanced stage, when metastases are already present. Methods: This review explores the therapeutic potential of natural herbal products and their use as adjuvant therapies in the treatment of oral cancer from online sources in databases (PubMed, Web of Science, Google Scholar, Research Gate, Scopus, Elsevier). Results: Even if classic therapies are known to be effective, they often produce many serious side effects and can create resistance. Certain natural plant compounds may offer a complementary approach by inducing apoptosis, suppressing tumor growth, and improving chemotherapy effectiveness. The integration of these compounds with conventional treatments to obtain remarkable synergistic effects represents a major point of interest to many authors. This review highlights the study of molecular mechanisms and their efficiency in in vitro and in vivo models, as well as the strategic ways in which drugs can be administered to optimize their use in real contexts. Conclusions: This review may have a significant impact on the oncology community, creating new inspirations for the development of more effective, safer cancer therapies with less toxic potential. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Molecular and Cellular Aspects of the Beneficial Effects of Natural Products on Chronic Diseases)

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17 pages, 1589 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effect of Spermidine on Endothelial Function in Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Mice

by Hyoseon Kim and Michael P. Massett

Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2024, 25(18), 9920; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms25189920 - 14 Sep 2024

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1667

Abstract

Endothelial dysfunction is common in Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE), even in the absence of cardiovascular disease. Evidence suggests that impaired mitophagy contributes to SLE. Mitochondrial dysfunction is also associated with impaired endothelial function. Spermidine, a natural polyamine, stimulates mitophagy by the PINK1–parkin pathway [...] Read more.

Endothelial dysfunction is common in Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE), even in the absence of cardiovascular disease. Evidence suggests that impaired mitophagy contributes to SLE. Mitochondrial dysfunction is also associated with impaired endothelial function. Spermidine, a natural polyamine, stimulates mitophagy by the PINK1–parkin pathway and counters age-associated endothelial dysfunction. However, the effect of spermidine on mitophagy and vascular function in SLE has not been explored. To address this gap, 9-week-old female lupus-prone (MRL/lpr) and healthy control (MRL/MpJ) mice were randomly assigned to spermidine treatment (lpr_Spermidine and MpJ_Spermidine) for 8 weeks or as control (lpr_Control and MpJ_Control). lpr_Control mice exhibited impaired endothelial function (e.g., decreased relaxation to acetylcholine), increased markers of inflammation, and lower protein content of parkin, a mitophagy marker, in the thoracic aorta. Spermidine treatment prevented endothelial dysfunction in MRL-lpr mice. Furthermore, aortas from lpr_Spermidine mice had lower levels of inflammatory markers and higher levels of parkin. Lupus phenotypes were not affected by spermidine. Collectively, these results demonstrate the beneficial effects of spermidine treatment on endothelial function, inflammation, and mitophagy in SLE mice. These results support future studies of the beneficial effects of spermidine on endothelial dysfunction and cardiovascular disease risk in SLE. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Molecular and Cellular Aspects of the Beneficial Effects of Natural Products on Chronic Diseases)

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16 pages, 3625 KiB

Open AccessArticle

In Vitro Investigation of the Anti-Fibrotic Effects of 1-Phenyl-2-Pentanol, Identified from Moringa oleifera Lam., on Hepatic Stellate Cells

by Watunyoo Buakaew, Sucheewin Krobthong, Yodying Yingchutrakul, Nopawit Khamto, Pornsuda Sutana, Pachuen Potup, Yordhathai Thongsri, Krai Daowtak, Antonio Ferrante, Catherine Léon and Kanchana Usuwanthim

Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2024, 25(16), 8995; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms25168995 - 19 Aug 2024

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2001

Abstract

Liver fibrosis, characterized by excessive extracellular matrix deposition, is driven by activated hepatic stellate cells (HSCs). Due to the limited availability of anti-fibrotic drugs, the research on therapeutic agents continues. Here we have investigated Moringa oleifera Lam. (MO), known for its various bioactive [...] Read more.

Liver fibrosis, characterized by excessive extracellular matrix deposition, is driven by activated hepatic stellate cells (HSCs). Due to the limited availability of anti-fibrotic drugs, the research on therapeutic agents continues. Here we have investigated Moringa oleifera Lam. (MO), known for its various bioactive properties, for anti-fibrotic effects. This study has focused on 1-phenyl-2-pentanol (1-PHE), a compound derived from MO leaves, and its effects on LX-2 human hepatic stellate cell activation. TGF-β1-stimulated LX-2 cells were treated with MO extract or 1-PHE, and the changes in liver fibrosis markers were assessed at both gene and protein levels. Proteomic analysis and molecular docking were employed to identify potential protein targets and signaling pathways affected by 1-PHE. Treatment with 1-PHE downregulated fibrosis markers, including collagen type I alpha 1 chain (COL1A1), collagen type IV alpha 1 chain (COL4A1), mothers against decapentaplegic homologs 2 and 3 (SMAD2/3), and matrix metalloproteinase-2 (MMP2), and reduced the secretion of matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9). Proteomic analysis data showed that 1-PHE modulates the Wnt/β-catenin pathway, providing a possible mechanism for its effects. Our results suggest that 1-PHE inhibits the TGF-β1 and Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathways and HSC activation, indicating its potential as an anti-liver-fibrosis agent. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Molecular and Cellular Aspects of the Beneficial Effects of Natural Products on Chronic Diseases)

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13 pages, 1992 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Inhibitive Mechanism of Loquat Flower Isolate on Tyrosinase Activity and Melanin Synthesis in Mouse Melanoma B16 Cells

by Qianqian Chen, Wenyang Tao, Jianfeng Wang, Jingrui Li, Meiyu Zheng, Yinying Liu, Shengmin Lu and Zhongxiang Fang

Biomolecules 2024, 14(8), 895; https://doi.org/10.3390/biom14080895 - 24 Jul 2024

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1634

Abstract

Melanin naturally exists in organisms and is synthetized by tyrosinase (TYR); however, its over-production may lead to aberrant pigmentation and skin conditions. Loquat (Eriobotrya japonica (Thunb.) Lindl.) flowers contain a variety of bioactive compounds, while studies on their suppressive capabilities against melanin [...] Read more.

Melanin naturally exists in organisms and is synthetized by tyrosinase (TYR); however, its over-production may lead to aberrant pigmentation and skin conditions. Loquat (Eriobotrya japonica (Thunb.) Lindl.) flowers contain a variety of bioactive compounds, while studies on their suppressive capabilities against melanin synthesis are limited. Loquat flower isolate product (LFP) was obtained by ethanol extraction and resin purification, and its inhibitory efficiency against TYR activity was investigated by enzyme kinetics and multiple spectroscopy analyses. In addition, the impact of LFP on melanin synthesis-related proteins’ expression in mouse melanoma B16 cells was analyzed using Western blotting. HPLC-MS/MS analysis indicated that LFP was composed of 137 compounds, of which 12 compounds, including flavonoids (quercetin, isorhamnoin, p-coumaric acid, etc.) and cinnamic acid and its derivatives, as well as benzene and its derivatives, might have TYR inhibitory activities. LFP inhibited TYR activity in a concentration-dependent manner with its IC50 value being 2.8 mg/mL. The inhibition was an anti-competitive one through altering the enzyme’s conformation rather than chelating copper ions at the active center. LFP reduced the expression of TYR, tyrosinase-related protein (TRP) 1, and TRP2 in melanoma B16 cells, hence inhibiting the synthesis of melanin. The research suggested that LFP had the potential to reduce the risks of hyperpigmentation caused by tyrosinase and provided a foundation for the utilization of loquat flower as a natural resource in the development of beauty and aging-related functional products. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Molecular and Cellular Aspects of the Beneficial Effects of Natural Products on Chronic Diseases)

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13 pages, 1868 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Investigating the Antifibrotic Effects of β-Citronellol on a TGF-β1-Stimulated LX-2 Hepatic Stellate Cell Model

by Watunyoo Buakaew, Sucheewin Krobthong, Yodying Yingchutrakul, Pachuen Potup, Yordhathai Thongsri, Krai Daowtak, Antonio Ferrante and Kanchana Usuwanthim

Biomolecules 2024, 14(7), 800; https://doi.org/10.3390/biom14070800 - 5 Jul 2024

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2221

Abstract

Liver fibrosis, a consequence of chronic liver damage or inflammation, is characterized by the excessive buildup of extracellular matrix components. This progressive condition significantly raises the risk of severe liver diseases like cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. The lack of approved therapeutics underscores the [...] Read more.

Liver fibrosis, a consequence of chronic liver damage or inflammation, is characterized by the excessive buildup of extracellular matrix components. This progressive condition significantly raises the risk of severe liver diseases like cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. The lack of approved therapeutics underscores the urgent need for novel anti-fibrotic drugs. Hepatic stellate cells (HSCs), key players in fibrogenesis, are promising targets for drug discovery. This study investigated the anti-fibrotic potential of Citrus hystrix DC. (KL) and its bioactive compound, β-citronellol (β-CIT), in a human HSC cell line (LX-2). Cells exposed to TGF-β1 to induce fibrogenesis were co-treated with crude KL extract and β-CIT. Gene expression was analyzed by real-time qRT-PCR to assess fibrosis-associated genes (ACTA2, COL1A1, TIMP1, SMAD2). The release of matrix metalloproteinase 9 (MMP-9) was measured by ELISA. Proteomic analysis and molecular docking identified potential signaling proteins and modeled protein–ligand interactions. The results showed that both crude KL extract and β-CIT suppressed HSC activation genes and MMP-9 levels. The MAPK signaling pathway emerged as a potential target of β-CIT. This study demonstrates the ability of KL extract and β-CIT to inhibit HSC activation during TGF-β1-induced fibrogenesis, suggesting a promising role of β-CIT in anti-hepatic fibrosis therapies. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Molecular and Cellular Aspects of the Beneficial Effects of Natural Products on Chronic Diseases)

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23 pages, 5402 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Antimelanoma Effects of Alchemilla vulgaris: A Comprehensive In Vitro and In Vivo Study

by Sanja Jelača, Ivan Jovanovic, Dijana Bovan, Sladjana Pavlovic, Nevena Gajovic, Duško Dunđerović, Zora Dajić-Stevanović, Aleksandar Acović, Sanja Mijatović and Danijela Maksimović-Ivanić

Diseases 2024, 12(6), 125; https://doi.org/10.3390/diseases12060125 - 8 Jun 2024

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1730

Abstract

Due to the rich ethnobotanical and growing evidence-based medicine records, the Alchemillae herba, i.e., the upper parts of the Lady’s mantle (Alchemilla vulgaris L.), was used for the assessment of antimelanoma activity. The ethanolic extract of A. vulgaris strongly suppressed the [...] Read more.

Due to the rich ethnobotanical and growing evidence-based medicine records, the Alchemillae herba, i.e., the upper parts of the Lady’s mantle (Alchemilla vulgaris L.), was used for the assessment of antimelanoma activity. The ethanolic extract of A. vulgaris strongly suppressed the viability of B16F1, B16F10, 518A2, and Fem-X cell lines. In contrast to the in vitro study, where the B16F1 cells were more sensitive to the treatment than the more aggressive counterpart B16F10, the results obtained in vivo using the corresponding syngeneic murine model were quite the opposite. The higher sensitivity of B16F10 tumors in vivo may be attributed to a more complex response to the extract compared to one triggered in vitro. In addition, the strong immunosuppressive microenvironment in the B16F1 model is impaired by the treatment, as evidenced by enhanced antigen-presenting potential of dendritic cells, influx and activity of CD4⁺ T and CD8⁺ T lymphocytes, decreased presence of T regulatory lymphocytes, and attenuation of anti-inflammatory cytokine production. All these effects are supported by the absence of systemic toxicity. A. vulgaris extract treatment results in a sustained and enhanced ability to reduce melanoma growth, followed by the restoration of innate and adopted antitumor immunity without affecting the overall physiology of the host. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Molecular and Cellular Aspects of the Beneficial Effects of Natural Products on Chronic Diseases)

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17 pages, 2334 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Chemical Characterization, Free Radical Scavenging, and Cellular Antioxidant Properties of the Egadi Island Endemic Brassica macrocarpa Guss Leaf Extract

by Adele Cicio, Noemi Aloi, Stefania Sut, Valeria Longo, Francesca Terracina, Stefano Dall’Acqua, Maria Grazia Zizzo, Maurizio Bruno, Vincenzo Ilardi, Paolo Colombo, Claudio Luparello and Rosa Serio

Biomolecules 2024, 14(6), 636; https://doi.org/10.3390/biom14060636 - 29 May 2024

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Abstract

The genus Brassica is an important source of food in the Mediterranean diet with documented nutritional and medicinal properties. However, few studies have investigated the phytochemical composition and the biological activity of wild Sicilian taxa. Thus, we aimed to study the chemical profile [...] Read more.

The genus Brassica is an important source of food in the Mediterranean diet with documented nutritional and medicinal properties. However, few studies have investigated the phytochemical composition and the biological activity of wild Sicilian taxa. Thus, we aimed to study the chemical profile and the antioxidant potential, in vitro and in LPS-stimulated RAW 264.7 cells, of a methanolic extract of leaves of wild Brassica macrocarpa Guss (B. macrocarpa) (Egadi Islands; Sicily-Italy). B. macrocarpa methanolic extract showed a large amount of glucosinolates and different phenolic compounds. It exhibited antioxidant activity in the DPPH assay and in LPS-stimulated RAW 264.7 cells, being able to reduce NO and ROS levels and NOS2 mRNA expression. Our study demonstrated that Sicilian B. macrocarpa methanolic extract, in LPS-stimulated macrophages, efficiently counteracts oxidative stress and displays radical scavenging activity. Future studies are required to identify the contribution of the single phytocomponents, to characterize the action mechanism, and to reveal possible applications in human health. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Molecular and Cellular Aspects of the Beneficial Effects of Natural Products on Chronic Diseases)

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20 pages, 8590 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Lombard Variety of Sweet Pepper Regulating Senescence and Proliferation: The Voghera Pepper

by Fabrizio De Luca, Federica Gola, Alberto Azzalin, Claudio Casali, Ludovica Gaiaschi, Gloria Milanesi, Riccardo Vicini, Paola Rossi and Maria Grazia Bottone

Nutrients 2024, 16(11), 1681; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu16111681 - 29 May 2024

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 1285

Abstract

Aging and its related disorders are important issues nowadays and the first cause of this physio-pathological condition is the overproduction of ROS. Ascorbic acid is an antioxidant mediator and its anti-aging proprieties are well known. Our previous data demonstrated that Voghera sweet pepper [...] Read more.

Aging and its related disorders are important issues nowadays and the first cause of this physio-pathological condition is the overproduction of ROS. Ascorbic acid is an antioxidant mediator and its anti-aging proprieties are well known. Our previous data demonstrated that Voghera sweet pepper (VP), a distinctive type of pepper cultivated in Italy, is particularly rich in ascorbic acid. Based on these data, the anti-aging effect mediated by extracts of the edible part of VP was evaluated on an in vitro model of both young and old Normal Human Diploid Fibroblasts (NHDF). Using phase contrast microscopy, we observed that VP may help cells in the maintenance of physiological morphology during aging. Cytofluorimetric analyses revealed that VP extracts led to an increase in DNA synthesis and percentage of living cells, linked to a consequent increase in mitotic events. This hypothesis is supported by the enhancement of PCNA expression levels observed in old, treated fibroblasts, corroborating the idea that this extract could recover a young phenotype in adult fibroblasts, confirmed by the study of p16 and p53 expression levels and TEM analyses. Based on these results, we may suppose that VP can lead to the partial recovery of “young-like” phenotypes in old fibroblasts. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Molecular and Cellular Aspects of the Beneficial Effects of Natural Products on Chronic Diseases)

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