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Borecka M, Karaś M. A Comprehensive Review of the Nutritional and Health-Promoting Properties of Edible Parts of Selected Cucurbitaceae Plants. Foods 2025; 14:1200. [PMID: 40238346 PMCID: PMC11989026 DOI: 10.3390/foods14071200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2025] [Revised: 03/24/2025] [Accepted: 03/26/2025] [Indexed: 04/18/2025] Open
Abstract
The Cucurbitaceae family includes commonly consumed plants such as pumpkin, watermelon, melon, horned melon, and cucumber, which are valued for their rich nutritional composition and health-promoting properties. These plants provide essential macronutrients, minerals, and bioactive compounds that contribute to their dietary and therapeutic significance. Particularly, Cucurbitaceae plants exhibit antidiabetic, hypolipidemic, antioxidant, and anticancer properties, making them valuable in addressing metabolic disorders and alleviating health risks associated with oxidative stress. This review aims to systematize current knowledge on selected cucurbits' nutritional composition, mineral content, and phytochemical profile. It also examines their caloric value, glycemic index, and glycemic load, offering insight into their potential role in dietary strategies for patients with obesity, insulin resistance, or diabetes. Additionally, this review explores often-overlooked by-products, including seeds, leaves, and flowers, which are rich in bioactive compounds with potential health benefits. By compiling and analyzing existing data, this review highlights the nutritional and functional potential of Cucurbitaceae plants, reinforcing their significance in a health-promoting diet and disease prevention.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Monika Karaś
- Department of Biochemistry and Food Chemistry, University of Life Sciences in Lublin, 20–704 Lublin, Poland;
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Lin Y, Wang Y, Zhang Q, Gao R, Chang F, Li B, Huang K, Cheng N, He X. Single-Atom Ce-N-C Nanozyme Ameliorates Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus by Improving Glucose Metabolism Disorders and Reducing Oxidative Stress. Biomolecules 2024; 14:1193. [PMID: 39334959 PMCID: PMC11430424 DOI: 10.3390/biom14091193] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2024] [Revised: 09/16/2024] [Accepted: 09/20/2024] [Indexed: 09/30/2024] Open
Abstract
Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) as a chronic metabolic disease has become a global public health problem. Insulin resistance (IR) is the main pathogenesis of T2DM. Oxidative stress refers to an imbalance between free radical production and the antioxidant system, causing insulin resistance and contributing to the development of T2DM via several molecular mechanisms. Besides, the reduction in hepatic glycogen synthesis also leads to a decrease in peripheral insulin sensitivity. Thus, reducing oxidative stress and promoting glycogen synthesis are both targets for improving insulin resistance and treating T2DM. The current study aims to investigate the pharmacological effects of single-atom Ce-N-C nanozyme (SACe-N-C) on the improvement of insulin resistance and to elucidate its underlying mechanisms using HFD/STZ-induced C57BL/6J mice and insulin-resistant HepG2 cells. The results indicate that SACe-N-C significantly improves hepatic glycogen synthesis and reduces oxidative stress, as well as pancreatic and liver injury. Specifically, compared to the T2DM model group, fasting blood glucose decreased by 29%, hepatic glycogen synthesis increased by 17.13%, and insulin secretion increased by 18.87%. The sod and GPx in the liver increased by 17.80% and 25.28%, respectively. In terms of mechanism, SACe-N-C modulated glycogen synthesis through the PI3K/AKT/GSK3β signaling pathway and activated the Keap1/Nrf2 pathway to alleviate oxidative stress. Collectively, this study suggests that SACe-N-C has the potential to treat T2DM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yitong Lin
- Key Laboratory of Precision Nutrition and Food Quality, Ministry of Education, College of Food Science and Nutritional Engineering, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100083, China
- Key Laboratory of Functional Dairy, Ministry of Education, College of Food Science and Nutritional Engineering, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100083, China
| | - Yanan Wang
- Key Laboratory of Precision Nutrition and Food Quality, Ministry of Education, College of Food Science and Nutritional Engineering, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100083, China
- Key Laboratory of Functional Dairy, Ministry of Education, College of Food Science and Nutritional Engineering, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100083, China
| | - Qi Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Precision Nutrition and Food Quality, Ministry of Education, College of Food Science and Nutritional Engineering, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100083, China
- Key Laboratory of Functional Dairy, Ministry of Education, College of Food Science and Nutritional Engineering, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100083, China
| | - Ruxin Gao
- Key Laboratory of Precision Nutrition and Food Quality, Ministry of Education, College of Food Science and Nutritional Engineering, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100083, China
- Key Laboratory of Functional Dairy, Ministry of Education, College of Food Science and Nutritional Engineering, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100083, China
| | - Fei Chang
- Key Laboratory of Precision Nutrition and Food Quality, Ministry of Education, College of Food Science and Nutritional Engineering, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100083, China
- Key Laboratory of Functional Dairy, Ministry of Education, College of Food Science and Nutritional Engineering, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100083, China
| | - Boran Li
- Key Laboratory of Precision Nutrition and Food Quality, Ministry of Education, College of Food Science and Nutritional Engineering, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100083, China
- Key Laboratory of Functional Dairy, Ministry of Education, College of Food Science and Nutritional Engineering, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100083, China
| | - Kunlun Huang
- Key Laboratory of Precision Nutrition and Food Quality, Ministry of Education, College of Food Science and Nutritional Engineering, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100083, China
- Key Laboratory of Functional Dairy, Ministry of Education, College of Food Science and Nutritional Engineering, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100083, China
- Key Laboratory of Safety Assessment of Genetically Modified Organism (Food Safety), The Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs of China, Beijing 100083, China
| | - Nan Cheng
- Key Laboratory of Precision Nutrition and Food Quality, Ministry of Education, College of Food Science and Nutritional Engineering, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100083, China
- Key Laboratory of Functional Dairy, Ministry of Education, College of Food Science and Nutritional Engineering, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100083, China
| | - Xiaoyun He
- Key Laboratory of Precision Nutrition and Food Quality, Ministry of Education, College of Food Science and Nutritional Engineering, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100083, China
- Key Laboratory of Functional Dairy, Ministry of Education, College of Food Science and Nutritional Engineering, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100083, China
- Key Laboratory of Safety Assessment of Genetically Modified Organism (Food Safety), The Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs of China, Beijing 100083, China
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Hernandez-Mixteco M, Bernal-Morales B, Valenzuela OL, Rodríguez-Landa JF, Cerna-Cortes JF, García-Montalvo EA. Effect of Cucurbita ficifolia Bouché on glutathione level and glycosylated hemoglobin percentage in a Mexican rural population with type 2 diabetes. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2024; 326:117924. [PMID: 38369067 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2024.117924] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2023] [Revised: 01/18/2024] [Accepted: 02/15/2024] [Indexed: 02/20/2024]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL IMPORTANCE Cucurbita ficifolia Bouché fruit is widely used in Mexican traditional medicine to treat type 2 diabetes (T2D) because it has been attributed with antioxidant and hypoglycemic properties in different experimental models and T2D patients. An imbalance in physiological glutathione (GSH) concentrations increases the susceptibility to developing complications associated with oxidative stress in T2D patients. AIM OF THE STUDY To investigate the effect of C. ficifolia on the antioxidant properties of GSH, general health measurements, and biochemical parameters in a Mexican rural population, and to evaluate the changes in socio-affective scores of patients due to improvement in T2D. MATERIALS AND METHODS Twenty-seven women diagnosed with T2D with poor glycemic control volunteered and were divided into two groups: C. ficifolia (0.5 g/kg of fresh pulp weight) with hypoglycemic pharmacotherapy, and another group with only hypoglycemic pharmacotherapy, for 12 weeks. We evaluated the effect of the fresh pulp of C. ficifolia on body mass index, blood pressure, glucose, glycosylated hemoglobin, cholesterol, triglycerides, and GSH. Expanding the study, we evaluated the quality of life, anxiety, and depression scores before and after the intervention. RESULTS Treatment with the fresh pulp of C. ficifolia for 12 weeks reduced glycosylated hemoglobin, similar to the hypoglycemic pharmacotherapy group, and significantly increased GSH concentrations. The patients' moods did not change despite increased GSH concentrations and improved T2D control. CONCLUSIONS The increased GSH concentrations due to the consumption of fresh pulp of C. ficifolia could help to protect against oxidative stress and extend therapeutic benefits in addition to the usual hypoglycemic drugs in patients with T2D.
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Affiliation(s)
- Margarita Hernandez-Mixteco
- Programa de Doctorado en Neuroetología, Instituto de Neuroetología, Universidad Veracruzana, Xalapa, Veracruz, Mexico.
| | - Blandina Bernal-Morales
- Laboratorio de Neurofarmacología, Instituto de Neuroetología, Universidad Veracruzana, Xalapa, Veracruz, Mexico.
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Sánchez-Gil JJ, Poppeliers SWM, Vacheron J, Zhang H, Odijk B, Keel C, de Jonge R. The conserved iol gene cluster in Pseudomonas is involved in rhizosphere competence. Curr Biol 2023; 33:3097-3110.e6. [PMID: 37419116 DOI: 10.1016/j.cub.2023.05.057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2023] [Revised: 04/25/2023] [Accepted: 05/24/2023] [Indexed: 07/09/2023]
Abstract
The Pseudomonas genus has shown great potential as a sustainable solution to support agriculture through its plant-growth-promoting and biocontrol activities. However, their efficacy as bioinoculants is limited by unpredictable colonization in natural conditions. Our study identifies the iol locus, a gene cluster in Pseudomonas involved in inositol catabolism, as a feature enriched among superior root colonizers in natural soil. Further characterization revealed that the iol locus increases competitiveness, potentially caused by an observed induction of swimming motility and the production of fluorescent siderophore in response to inositol, a plant-derived compound. Public data analyses indicate that the iol locus is broadly conserved in the Pseudomonas genus and linked to diverse host-microbe interactions. Together, our findings suggest the iol locus as a potential target for developing more effective bioinoculants for sustainable agriculture.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juan J Sánchez-Gil
- Plant-Microbe Interactions, Department of Biology, Science for Life, Utrecht University, Utrecht 3584 CH, The Netherlands
| | - Sanne W M Poppeliers
- Plant-Microbe Interactions, Department of Biology, Science for Life, Utrecht University, Utrecht 3584 CH, The Netherlands
| | - Jordan Vacheron
- Department of Fundamental Microbiology, University of Lausanne, Lausanne CH-1015, Switzerland
| | - Hao Zhang
- Plant-Microbe Interactions, Department of Biology, Science for Life, Utrecht University, Utrecht 3584 CH, The Netherlands
| | - Bart Odijk
- Plant-Microbe Interactions, Department of Biology, Science for Life, Utrecht University, Utrecht 3584 CH, The Netherlands
| | - Christoph Keel
- Department of Fundamental Microbiology, University of Lausanne, Lausanne CH-1015, Switzerland
| | - Ronnie de Jonge
- Plant-Microbe Interactions, Department of Biology, Science for Life, Utrecht University, Utrecht 3584 CH, The Netherlands.
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Fermentation of the Cucurbita ficifolia Fruit Juice: Its Antioxidant Activity and Effects on the Glycemia. BEVERAGES 2022. [DOI: 10.3390/beverages8030055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Cucurbita ficifolia is an edible plant whose fruits have hypoglycemic, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant activities. Fermentation might improve these properties. This research aims to perform and characterize its fermentation in native and induced conditions with Lactobacillus plantarum (Lp) and evaluate its antioxidant activity and effect on glycemia. Fresh juice from mature fruits was characterized. One portion of this juice was spontaneously left to ferment (native fermentation), and the other was inoculated with Lp (controlled fermentation). Fermentation was monitored each 8 h by 56 h to measure microbial growth, pH, acidity, sugars, soluble protein, polyphenols and flavonoids, antioxidant activity, and effects on glycemia. In native fermentation, the growth of total microorganisms increased up to 32 h, decreasing at the end of the process. In Lp fermentation, total microorganisms increased until 16 h to stay constant at the end, with a predominance of Lp. The pH and the sugars decreased in the two fermentations, while polyphenol and flavonoid increased. In spontaneous fermentation, these changes were lesser. Both fermentations, like fresh juice, preserve functional properties (antioxidant, alpha-glucosidase inhibition, and hypoglycemia). The fermentation of this juice with Lp may develop functional beverages, which is significant due to its consumption as an edible fruit with medicinal properties.
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In Vitro Role of Pumpkin Parts as Pharma-Foods: Antihyperglycemic and Antihyperlipidemic Activities of Pumpkin Peel, Flesh, and Seed Powders, in Alloxan-Induced Diabetic Rats. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF FOOD SCIENCE 2022; 2022:4804408. [PMID: 35959224 PMCID: PMC9363229 DOI: 10.1155/2022/4804408] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2022] [Revised: 06/20/2022] [Accepted: 07/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Pumpkin is a well-known vegetable, among the members of Cucurbitaceae family, due to its importance as pharma food. Keeping in view the antidiabetic and plasma lipids lowering potential of pumpkin, the present study was conducted to investigate that, which part of pumpkin (peel, flesh, and seeds), possess more bioactive compounds, exhibiting antihyperglycemic and antihyperlipidemic potential. Albino rats with 190-210 g body weight were divided into 11 groups. Five rats were included in each group; group A was negative control, group B was positive control, and groups C to K were diabetic rats fed with pumpkin peel, flesh, and seed powders. Diabetes was induced in rats with the help of alloxan monohydrate. During 28 days of experimental period, blood glucose level of different rat's groups was checked with the help of glucometer, at every 7 days interval and at the end of 28 days study, plasma lipids were checked with the help of commercial kits. A significant decrease in blood glucose level (128.33 ± 1.67 mg/dl), TC (88.43 ± 0.66 mg/dl), TG (69.79 ± 0.49 mg/dl), and LDL-C (21.45 ± 0.08 mg/dl) was recorded in rat groups fed with 15 g pumpkin seed powder, at the end of study. After pumpkin seeds, second significant antihyperglycemic and antihyperlipidemic effect was recorded in rat's groups fed with 15 g pumpkin peel powder. Pumpkin flesh powder effect in lowering blood glucose level and plasma lipids was less significant as compared to seeds and peel powder. As the dose of the pumpkin powders was increased from 5 to 10 and then 15 g, the blood glucose-lowering and plasma lipid-lowering effect became more significant. Similarly, as the experimental duration was expanded from first week to 28 days, this antihyperglycemic and antihyperlipidemic effect became more significant. These results were sufficient to conclude that pumpkin has high potential to be used in human diet to cope with noncommunicable diseases like diabetes and hypercholesterolemia.
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Yang Q, Zhang Y, Li L, Li J, Li Y, Han L, Wang M. D- chiro-Inositol facilitates adiponectin biosynthesis and activates the AMPKα/PPARs pathway to inhibit high-fat diet-induced obesity and liver lipid deposition. Food Funct 2022; 13:7192-7203. [PMID: 35708620 DOI: 10.1039/d2fo00869f] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
D-chiro-Inositol (DCI) is a natural cyclohexanol isomer that widely exists in all living beings, which can effectively prevent glucose and lipid metabolism disorders in mammals. This study revealed the DCI elevated adiponectin levels to reduce obesity and hepatic lipid deposition in high-fat diet (HFD) fed mice. Twelve weeks of DCI supplementation (50 and 100 mg per kg body weight per day) lowered body weight and serum triglyceride, total cholesterol, insulin, and fasting glucose levels. Histopathology analysis revealed that DCI inhibited hepatic steatosis and adipocyte expansion. Remarkably, DCI significantly increased serum adiponectin levels and upgraded the expressions of adiponectin receptors (AdipoR1 and AdipoR2) in the liver. The results of western blot and qRT-PCR showed that DCI impeded the inhibitory effect of HFD on liver AMPKα and PPARs activities through activating AdipoRs and regulated downstream fatty acid metabolism. In addition, we analyzed the concentration difference of DCI in mouse liver and adipose tissue by the HRLC-MS/MS technology, indicating the preference of DCI in different tissues. Therefore, DCI relieved liver lipid deposition and hyperlipidemia potentially by promoting adiponectin synthesis in white adipose tissue and activating the AdipoR-AMPKα/PPARs pathway in the liver.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiong Yang
- College of Food Science and Engineering, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi 712100, People's Republic of China.
| | - Yao Zhang
- College of Food Science and Engineering, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi 712100, People's Republic of China.
| | - Luqi Li
- Life Science Research Core Services, Northwest A&F University, Shaanxi, China
| | - Jia Li
- College of Food Science and Engineering, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi 712100, People's Republic of China.
| | - Yunlong Li
- Institute of Functional Food of Shanxi, Shanxi Agricultural University, Taiyuan 030006, People's Republic of China
| | - Lin Han
- College of Food Science and Engineering, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi 712100, People's Republic of China.
| | - Min Wang
- College of Food Science and Engineering, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi 712100, People's Republic of China.
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Rosiles-Alanis W, Zamilpa A, García-Macedo R, Zavala-Sánchez MA, Hidalgo-Figueroa S, Mora-Ramiro B, Román-Ramos R, Estrada-Soto SE, Almanza-Perez JC. 4-Hydroxybenzoic Acid and β-Sitosterol from Cucurbita ficifolia Act as Insulin Secretagogues, Peroxisome Proliferator-Activated Receptor-Gamma Agonists, and Liver Glycogen Storage Promoters: In Vivo, In Vitro, and In Silico Studies. J Med Food 2022; 25:588-596. [PMID: 35708636 DOI: 10.1089/jmf.2021.0071] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Insulin secretion and GLUT4 expression are two critical events in glucose regulation. The receptors G-protein-coupled receptor 40 (GPR40) and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-gamma (PPARγ) modulate these processes, and they represent potential therapeutic targets for new antidiabetic agent's design. Cucurbita ficifolia fruit is used in traditional medicine for diabetes control. Previous studies demonstrated several effects: a hypoglycemic effect mediated by an insulin secretagogue action, antihyperglycemic effect, and promoting liver glycogen storage. Anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects were also reported. Moreover, some of its phytochemicals have been described, including d-chiro-inositol. However, to understand these effects integrally, other active principles should be investigated. The aim was to perform a chemical fractionation guided by bioassay to isolate and identify other compounds from C. ficifolia fruit that explain its hypoglycemic action as insulin secretagogue, its antihyperglycemic effect by PPARγ activation, and on liver glycogen storage. Three different preparations of C. ficifolia were tested in vivo. Ethyl acetate fraction derived from aqueous extract showed antihyperglycemic effect in an oral glucose tolerance test and was further fractioned. The insulin secretagogue action was tested in RINm5F cells. For the PPARγ activation, C2C12 myocytes were treated with the fractions, and GLUT4 mRNA expression was measured. Chemical fractionation resulted in the isolation and identification of β-sitosterol and 4-hydroxybenzoic acid (4-HBA), which increased insulin secretion, GLUT4, PPARγ, and adiponectin mRNA expression, in addition to an increase in glycogen storage. 4-HBA exhibited an antihyperglycemic effect, while β-sitosterol showed hypoglycemic effect, confirming the wide antidiabetic related results we found in our in vitro models. An in silico study revealed that 4-HBA and β-sitosterol have potential as dual agonists on PPARγ and GPR40 receptors. Both compounds should be considered in the development of new antidiabetic drug development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wendoline Rosiles-Alanis
- Postgraduate degree programme in Experimental Biology, DCBS, Autonomous Metropolitan University-Iztapalapa, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Alejandro Zamilpa
- Southern Biomedical Research Center (CIBIS), Mexican Social Security Institute, Xochitepec, Mexico
| | - Rebeca García-Macedo
- Medical Investigation Unit in Biochemistry, Specialty Hospital, XXI Century National Medical Center, Mexican Social Security Institute (IMSS), Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Miguel A Zavala-Sánchez
- Biological Systems Dept., DCBS, Autonomous Metropolitan University-Xochimilco, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Sergio Hidalgo-Figueroa
- CONACyT, IPICYT/Consortium for Research, Innovation and Development for Arid Zones, San Luis Potosí, Mexico
| | - Beatriz Mora-Ramiro
- Health Science Dept., DCBS, Autonomous Metropolitan University-Iztapalapa, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Rubén Román-Ramos
- Health Science Dept., DCBS, Autonomous Metropolitan University-Iztapalapa, Mexico City, Mexico
| | | | - Julio C Almanza-Perez
- Health Science Dept., DCBS, Autonomous Metropolitan University-Iztapalapa, Mexico City, Mexico
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Huerta-Reyes M, Tavera-Hernández R, Alvarado-Sansininea JJ, Jiménez-Estrada M. Selected Species of the Cucurbitaceae Family Used in Mexico for the Treatment of Diabetes Mellitus. Molecules 2022; 27:3440. [PMID: 35684376 PMCID: PMC9182361 DOI: 10.3390/molecules27113440] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2022] [Revised: 05/09/2022] [Accepted: 05/24/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
In Mexico, Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a serious health problem, and although the current pharmacological treatments for DM such as insulin and oral hypoglycemics are available, the Mexican population continues to use medicinal plants in the treatment of DM. The antidiabetic properties of the plant species that belong to the Cucurbitaceae family has already been recognized worldwide. Since Mexico is one of the most important centers of diversity of Cucurbitaceae, the present work contributes to the review of the most used species of Cucurbitaceae in the treatment of DM in Mexico. The reviewed species (Cucurbita ficifolia, C. maxima, C. moschata, C. pepo, Ibervillea sonorae, Sechium edule, Citrullus lanatus, Cucumis melo, and C. sativus) revealed that the antidiabetic effects exerted are effective in a number of mechanisms involved in the complex pathogenesis of DM: hypoglycemic, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-obesity, protective effects on diverse organs and cells, as well as in the control of dyslipidemias; furthermore, the select species of the Cucurbitaceae family could also be essential components of diets for the control of DM in patients with the disease. Thus, the Cucurbitaceae species selected in the present work represent a source of antidiabetic agents that perhaps establish the bases for novel clinical treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maira Huerta-Reyes
- Unidad de Investigación Médica en Enfermedades Nefrológicas, Hospital de Especialidades “Dr. Bernardo Sepúlveda Gutiérrez”, Centro Médico Nacional Siglo XXI, Instituto Mexicano del Seguro Social, Cuauhtémoc, Ciudad de México 06720, Mexico
| | - Rosario Tavera-Hernández
- Instituto de Química, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Ciudad Universitaria, Coyoacán, Ciudad de México 04510, Mexico; (R.T.-H.); (M.J.-E.)
| | - J. Javier Alvarado-Sansininea
- Herbario FEZA, Facultad de Estudios Superiores Zaragoza, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Batalla de 5 de Mayo S/N, Col. Ejército de Oriente, Ciudad de México 09230, Mexico;
| | - Manuel Jiménez-Estrada
- Instituto de Química, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Ciudad Universitaria, Coyoacán, Ciudad de México 04510, Mexico; (R.T.-H.); (M.J.-E.)
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10
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Cong Z, Cai L, Zhang Y, Su W, Li H, Zhu Q. The complete chloroplast genome sequence of the Cucurbita ficifolia Bouché (Cucurbitaceae). Mitochondrial DNA B Resour 2021; 6:3095-3097. [PMID: 34621985 PMCID: PMC8491698 DOI: 10.1080/23802359.2021.1981171] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Cucurbita ficifolia Bouché is an important germplasm resource used for rootstock and hypoglycemic food in Cucurbitaceae. The complete chloroplast genome sequence of C. ficifolia has been determined in this study. The total genome size is 157,533 bp in length and contains a pair of inverted repeats (IRs) of 25,639 bp, which were separated by large single copy (LSC) and small single copy (SSC) of 88,112 bp and 18,143 bp, respectively. A total of 130 genes were predicted including 86 protein-coding genes, eight rRNA genes and 36 tRNA genes. Further, Maximum-likelihood phylogenetic analysis revealed that C. ficifolia is a base clade of genus Cucurbita and closer to Cucurbita maxima. The chloroplast genome of C. ficifolia would promote the germplasm exploration, phylogenetic relationships, and molecular biology researches in Cucurbita.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhou Cong
- Department of Horticulture, College of Agronomy, Jiangxi Agricultural University, Nanchang, P.R. China
| | - Lijuan Cai
- Nanchang Business College, Jiangxi Agricultural University, Nanchang, P.R. China
| | - Yu Zhang
- Department of Horticulture, College of Agronomy, Jiangxi Agricultural University, Nanchang, P.R. China
| | - Wenzhen Su
- Department of Horticulture, College of Agronomy, Jiangxi Agricultural University, Nanchang, P.R. China
| | - Huiying Li
- Department of Horticulture, College of Agronomy, Jiangxi Agricultural University, Nanchang, P.R. China
| | - Qianglong Zhu
- Department of Horticulture, College of Agronomy, Jiangxi Agricultural University, Nanchang, P.R. China
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Abstract
The world’s food and agricultural programs have gradually declined into an unsustainable situation due to challenges such as increase in world population, varied agro-climatic regions, increase temperature, extreme sole-culture growing techniques, and water shortage. A considerable emphasis has been put on few staple food crops coupled with repeated dieting, food scarcity, and essential mineral deficits, frequently inducing dietary disorders. Because relying on staple crops may lead to serious food shortages in the future, we must adjust our dietary habits to include a diverse range of non-staple foods and maximize their use in order to achieve food security and reduce the nutritional gap. To assure healthy meals around the world, an authentic and reasonable strategy is presented to draw additional awareness towards variations in agricultural production techniques and dietary preferences. The EAT-Lancet declaration highlighted the importance of increasing agri-based foods to achieve sustainable health. Expanding overlooked crops with abundant genetic stocks and possibly beneficial characteristics is an approach that might meet food and nutritional security challenges. Although undervalued, pumpkin is a valuable vegetable herbaceous plant that contributes to global food and nutritional security. This crop has already been identified as a revolutionary age crop, balanced food, and more adapted to low soil and atmospheric circumstances than other major crops. This review paper focuses on the potential uses of pumpkin as an underutilized crop; diversification and development of hybrids, particularly hybridization breeding through diallel mating design; and how implementation of this “modern” technology would contribute to the breeding of the neglected pumpkin vegetable and stimulate productivity and nourish the world’s largest malnourished, deprived, and starved populations.
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Phenolic Extract from Aralia nudicaulis L. Rhizomes Inhibits Cellular Oxidative Stresses. Molecules 2021; 26:molecules26154458. [PMID: 34361611 PMCID: PMC8347711 DOI: 10.3390/molecules26154458] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2021] [Revised: 07/14/2021] [Accepted: 07/20/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
UV-B and IR-A radiation are important inducers of biological changes in skin involving ROS generation. The overloading of antioxidant defense mechanisms by ROS production could lead to photoaging and photocarcinogenesis processes. Various traditional usages are reported for Aralia nudicaulis L. extracts, including treatment of dermatological disorders. Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties have already been reported for other Aralia species possibly due to the presence of phenolic compounds. However, the phenolic composition and the potential activity of A. nudicaulis rhizomes extract against oxidative stress and UV/IR damages have not been investigated. The main aims of this study were to prepare a fraction enriched in phenolic compounds (FEPC) from A. nudicaulis rhizomes, to identify its major phenolic compounds and to assess its potential for protective effects against oxidative stress induced by UV-B, IR-A or inflammation. A quantitative LC-MS study of FEPC shows that chlorogenic, caffeic and protocatechuic acids are the main phenolic compounds present, with concentrations of 15.6%, 15.3% and 4.8% of the total composition, respectively. With a validated analytical method, those compounds were quantified over different stages of the growing period. As for biological potential, first this extract demonstrates antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities. Furthermore, ROS generation induced by IR-A and UV-B were strongly inhibited by A. nudicaulis extract, suggesting that Aralia nudicaulis L. rhizome extract could protect dermal cells against oxidative stress induced by UV-B and IR-A.
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Moya-Hernández A, Bosquez-Molina E, Verde-Calvo JR, Blancas-Flores G, Trejo-Aguilar GM. Hypoglycemic effect and bioactive compounds associated with the ripening stages of the Cucurbita ficifolia Bouché fruit. JOURNAL OF THE SCIENCE OF FOOD AND AGRICULTURE 2020; 100:5171-5181. [PMID: 32530046 DOI: 10.1002/jsfa.10566] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2020] [Revised: 05/21/2020] [Accepted: 06/12/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The fruit of Cucurbita ficifolia Bouché is known in Mexico as 'chilacayote'. The scientific interest that C. ficifolia Bouché has acquired is due to its important hypoglycemic effect. The present research aimed (i) to discover whether this hypoglycemic property is present at different stages of development of this fruit, and (ii) to characterize some bioactive compounds with antioxidant or anti-inflammatory properties. Ethylene production, respiration rate, and maturity indices were determined during fruit development. The chemical characterization of the aqueous extracts of each stage of maturity studied was determined and their hypoglycemic effects were bioassayed using groups of normal mice with diabetes induced by streptozotocin at a dose of 500 mg-1 kg-1 body weight. RESULTS Respiration rate and ethylene production showed a typical pattern for non-climacteric fruit and the quality parameters did not show significant changes. Phenolic compounds such as gallic acid and chlorogenic acid were found to have the highest concentration at 15 days of development. Extracts at 15 days showed a hypoglycemic effect that was 11% greater than that of glibenclamide in diabetized mice. CONCLUSION All stages of development of C. ficifolia fruit had a hypoglycemic effect; however, the aqueous extract from the fruit at 15 days of development showed a better effect than glibenclamide. This finding highlights the potential of this maturity stage, and shows that it is appropriate for inclusion in treatments of type 2 diabetes mellitus. The results also indicate that phenolic compounds are mainly responsible for this effect and not d-chiro-inositol as previously thought. © 2020 Society of Chemical Industry.
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Affiliation(s)
- Araceli Moya-Hernández
- Department of Biotechnology, Universidad Autónoma Metropolitana-Iztapalapa, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Elsa Bosquez-Molina
- Department of Biotechnology, Universidad Autónoma Metropolitana-Iztapalapa, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - José Ramón Verde-Calvo
- Department of Biotechnology, Universidad Autónoma Metropolitana-Iztapalapa, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Gerardo Blancas-Flores
- Department of Health Sciences, Universidad Autónoma Metropolitana-Iztapalapa, Mexico City, Mexico
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Salehi B, Sharifi-Rad J, Capanoglu E, Adrar N, Catalkaya G, Shaheen S, Jaffer M, Giri L, Suyal R, Jugran AK, Calina D, Oana Docea A, Kamiloglu S, Kregiel D, Antolak H, Pawlikowska E, Sen S, Acharya K, Bashiry M, Selamoglu Z, Martorell M, Sharopov F, Martins N, Namiesnik J, Cho WC. Cucurbita Plants: From Farm to Industry. APPLIED SCIENCES 2019; 9:3387. [DOI: 10.3390/app9163387] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
The Cucurbita genus, a member of Cucurbitaceae family, also known as cucurbits, is native to the Americas. Genus members, like Cucurbita pepo and Cucurbita maxima, have been used for centuries in folk medicine for treating gastrointestinal diseases and intestinal parasites. These pharmacological effects are mainly attributed to their phytochemical composition. Indeed, Cucurbita species are a natural source of carotenoids, tocopherols, phenols, terpenoids, saponins, sterols, fatty acids, functional carbohydrates, and polysaccharides, that beyond exerting remarkable biological effects, have also been increasingly exploited for biotechnological applications. In this article, we specifically cover the habitat, cultivation, phytochemical composition, and food preservative abilities of Cucurbita plants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bahare Salehi
- Student Research Committee, School of Medicine, Bam University of Medical Sciences, Bam 44340847, Iran
| | - Javad Sharifi-Rad
- Zabol Medicinal Plants Research Center, Zabol University of Medical Sciences, Zabol 61615-585, Iran
| | - Esra Capanoglu
- Istanbul Technical University, Faculty of Chemical & Metallurgical Engineering, Food Engineering Department, Maslak 34469, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Nabil Adrar
- Istanbul Technical University, Faculty of Chemical & Metallurgical Engineering, Food Engineering Department, Maslak 34469, Istanbul, Turkey
- Laboratoire de Biotechnologie Végétale et d’Ethnobotanique, Faculté des Sciences de la Nature et de la Vie, Université de Bejaia, Bejaia 06000, Algérie
| | - Gizem Catalkaya
- Istanbul Technical University, Faculty of Chemical & Metallurgical Engineering, Food Engineering Department, Maslak 34469, Istanbul, Turkey
| | | | - Mehwish Jaffer
- Department of Plant Sciences, LCWU, Lahore 54000, Pakistan
| | - Lalit Giri
- G.B. Pant National Institute of Himalayan Environment & Sustainable Development Kosi-Katarmal, Almora 263 643, Uttarakhand, India
| | - Renu Suyal
- G.B. Pant National Institute of Himalayan Environment & Sustainable Development Kosi-Katarmal, Almora 263 643, Uttarakhand, India
| | - Arun K Jugran
- G.B. Pant National Institute of Himalayan Environment & Sustainable Development Garhwal Regional Centre, Srinagar 246174, Uttarakhand, India
| | - Daniela Calina
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, University of Medicine and Pharmacy of Craiova, 200349 Craiova, Romania
| | - Anca Oana Docea
- Department of Toxicology, University of Medicine and Pharmacy of Craiova, 200349 Craiova, Romania
| | - Senem Kamiloglu
- Mevsim Gida Sanayi ve Soguk Depo Ticaret A.S. (MVSM Foods), Turankoy, Kestel, Bursa 16540, Turkey
| | - Dorota Kregiel
- Institute of Fermentation Technology and Microbiology, Lodz University of Technology, Wolczanska 171/173, 90-924 Lodz, Poland
| | - Hubert Antolak
- Molecular and Applied Mycology and Plant Pathology Laboratory, Department of Botany, University of Calcutta, Kolkata 700019, India
| | - Ewelina Pawlikowska
- Institute of Fermentation Technology and Microbiology, Lodz University of Technology, Wolczanska 171/173, 90-924 Lodz, Poland
| | - Surjit Sen
- Molecular and Applied Mycology and Plant Pathology Laboratory, Department of Botany, University of Calcutta, Kolkata 700019, India
- Department of Botany, Fakir Chand College, Diamond Harbour, West Bengal 743331, India
| | - Krishnendu Acharya
- Molecular and Applied Mycology and Plant Pathology Laboratory, Department of Botany, University of Calcutta, Kolkata 700019, India
| | - Moein Bashiry
- Department of Food Science and Technology, Nutrition and Food Sciences Faculty, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah 6719851351, Iran
| | - Zeliha Selamoglu
- Department of Medical Biology, Faculty of Medicine, Nigde Ömer Halisdemir University, Campus, Nigde 51240, Turkey
| | - Miquel Martorell
- Department of Nutrition and Dietetics, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Concepcion, Concepcion 4070386, Chile
- Universidad de Concepción, Unidad de Desarrollo Tecnológico, UDT, Concepcion 4070386, Chile
| | - Farukh Sharopov
- Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, Avicenna Tajik State Medical University, Rudaki 139, 734003 Dushanbe, Tajikistan
| | - Natália Martins
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Porto, Alameda Prof. Hernâni Monteiro, 4200-319 Porto, Portugal
- Institute for Research and Innovation in Health (i3S), University of Porto, 4200-135 Porto, Portugal
| | - Jacek Namiesnik
- Department of Analytical Chemistry, Faculty of Chemistry, Gdańsk University of Technology, 80-233 Gdańsk, Poland
| | - William C. Cho
- Department of Clinical Oncology, Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Hong Kong, China
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Samuel-Nakamura C, Hodge FS, Sokolow S, Ali AMS, Robbins WA. Metal(loid)s in Cucurbita pepo in a Uranium Mining Impacted Area in Northwestern New Mexico, USA. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2019; 16:ijerph16142569. [PMID: 31323819 PMCID: PMC6679051 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph16142569] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2019] [Revised: 07/11/2019] [Accepted: 07/15/2019] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
More than 500 unreclaimed mines and associated waste sites exist on the Navajo Nation reservation as a result of uranium (U) mining from the 1940s through the 1980s. For this study, the impact of U-mine waste on a common, locally grown crop food was examined. The goal of this site-specific study was to determine metal(loid) concentration levels of arsenic (As), cadmium (Cd), cesium (Cs), molybdenum (Mo), lead (Pb), thorium (Th), U, vanadium (V) and selenium (Se) in Cucurbita pepo Linnaeus (squash), irrigation water, and soil using inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry. The concentrations of metal(loid)s were greatest in roots > leaves > edible fruit (p < 0.05), respectively. There were significant differences between metal(loid)s in squash crop plot usage (<5 years versus >30 years) for V (p = 0.001), As (p < 0.001), U (p = 0.002), Cs (p = 0.012), Th (p = 0.040), Mo (p = 0.047), and Cd (p = 0.042). Lead and Cd crop irrigation water concentrations exceeded the United States Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) Maximum Contaminant Levels for drinking water for those metals. Edible squash concentration levels were 0.116 mg/kg of As, 0.248 mg/kg of Pb, 0.020 mg/kg of Cd, and 0.006 mg/kg of U. Calculated human ingestion of edible squash did not exceed Provisional Tolerable Weekly Intake or Tolerable Upper Limit levels from intake based solely on squash consumption. There does not appear to be a food-ingestion risk from metal(loid)s solely from consumption of squash. Safer access and emphasis on consuming regulated water was highlighted. Food intake recommendations were provided. Continued monitoring, surveillance, and further research are recommended.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christine Samuel-Nakamura
- School of Nursing, University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), 4-246 Factor Bldg., Mailcode 691821, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA.
| | - Felicia S Hodge
- School of Nursing, University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), 5-940 Factor Bldg., Mailcode 691921, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Sophie Sokolow
- School of Nursing, University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), 5-238 Factor Bldg., Mailcode 691921, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
| | - Abdul-Mehdi S Ali
- Department of Earth and Planetary Sciences, University of New Mexico, Northrop Hall MSCO 3-2040 Albuquerque, NM 87131, USA
| | - Wendie A Robbins
- Center for Occupational and Environmental Health Fielding School of Public Health, Environmental Health Sciences, University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), 5-254 Factor Bldg., Mailcode 956919, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA
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Wu W, Qiu J, Wang A, Li Z. Impact of whole cereals and processing on type 2 diabetes mellitus: a review. Crit Rev Food Sci Nutr 2019; 60:1447-1474. [DOI: 10.1080/10408398.2019.1574708] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Weijing Wu
- College of Food Science and Nutritional Engineering, China Agricultural University, Haidian, Beijing, China
- Laboratory of nutrition and food safety, Xiamen Medical College, Xiamen, Fujian, China
| | - Ju Qiu
- Ministry of Agriculture, Institute of Food and Nutrition Development, Haidian, Beijing, China
| | - Aili Wang
- Department of Food Science and Technology, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University (Virginia Tech), Blacksburg, Virginia, USA
| | - Zaigui Li
- College of Food Science and Nutritional Engineering, China Agricultural University, Haidian, Beijing, China
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Wu W, Wang L, Qiu J, Li Z. The analysis of fagopyritols from tartary buckwheat and their anti-diabetic effects in KK-Ay type 2 diabetic mice and HepG2 cells. J Funct Foods 2018. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jff.2018.09.032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
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Manukumar HM, Shiva Kumar J, Chandrasekhar B, Raghava S, Umesha S. Evidences for diabetes and insulin mimetic activity of medicinal plants: Present status and future prospects. Crit Rev Food Sci Nutr 2018; 57:2712-2729. [PMID: 26857927 DOI: 10.1080/10408398.2016.1143446] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a considerable systemic metabolic disorder to exhibit various metabolic and cardiovascular disorders, mainly hyperglycemia. The global projected estimate of diabetes in 2030 will be about 439 million adults, out of which 300 million expected are of type-2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). The present knowledge revealed responsible factors, occurrence and mechanism of these factors involved in the DM diseases. Hence, the aim of this review is to address and summarize the causes, plant resources, importance, present status and future programmes for diabetes control. The present review answers the contemporary present questions raised in the scientific field on DM. Two major problems are explained in detail about the autoimmune attack or dysfunction of β-cell and insulin resistance involved for Type 1 and Type 2 DM, respectively. Though there are various approaches to reduce the ill effects of diabetes and its secondary complications, many preferred herbal formulations due to lesser side effects and low cost. For this reason still it is getting increased attention in searching antidiabetic medicinal plants for hot research and to develop targeted medicine. Recurrence of islet autoimmunity lesson from pancreatic islet cell transplantation to cure T1D was outlined. With these highlights, the review summarizes the current knowledge on diabetes occurrence, factors (environmental and genetics), and types (I, II, gestation, and secondary DM), antidiabetic plants, sources for insulin mimetic plant principle compounds and their target mechanism with current and future trusted research areas for controlling of DM.
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Affiliation(s)
- H M Manukumar
- a Department of Studies in Biotechnology , University of Mysore , Manasagangotri, Mysore , Karnataka , India
| | - J Shiva Kumar
- a Department of Studies in Biotechnology , University of Mysore , Manasagangotri, Mysore , Karnataka , India
| | - B Chandrasekhar
- a Department of Studies in Biotechnology , University of Mysore , Manasagangotri, Mysore , Karnataka , India
| | - Sri Raghava
- a Department of Studies in Biotechnology , University of Mysore , Manasagangotri, Mysore , Karnataka , India
| | - S Umesha
- a Department of Studies in Biotechnology , University of Mysore , Manasagangotri, Mysore , Karnataka , India
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Jessica GG, Mario GL, Alejandro Z, Cesar APJ, Ivan JVE, Ruben RR, Javier AAF. CHEMICAL CHARACTERIZATION OF A HYPOGLYCEMIC EXTRACT FROM CUCURBITA FICIFOLIA BOUCHE THAT INDUCES LIVER GLYCOGEN ACCUMULATION IN DIABETIC MICE. AFRICAN JOURNAL OF TRADITIONAL, COMPLEMENTARY, AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINES 2017; 14:218-230. [PMID: 28480434 PMCID: PMC5412228 DOI: 10.21010/ajtcam.v14i3.24] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Background: The aqueous extract of Cucurbita ficifolia (C. ficifolia) fruit has demonstrated hypoglycemic effect, which may be attributed to some components in the extract. However, the major secondary metabolites in this fruit have not yet been identified and little is known about its extra-pancreatic action, in particular, on liver carbohydrate metabolism. Therefore, in addition to the isolation and structural elucidation of the principal components in the aqueous extract of C. ficifolia, the aim of this study was to determine whether or not the hypoglycemic effect of the aqueous extract of Cucurbita ficifolia (C. ficifolia) fruit is due to accumulation of liver glycogen in diabetic mice. Materials and Methods: The aqueous extract from fruit of C. ficifolia was fractionated and its main secondary metabolites were purified and chemically characterized (NMR and GC-MS). Alloxan-induced diabetic mice received daily by gavage the aqueous extract (30 days). The liver glycogen content was quantified by spectroscopic method and by PAS stain; ALT and AST by spectrometric method; glycogen synthase, glycogen phosphorylase and GLUT2 by Western blot; the mRNA expression of GLUT2 and glucagon-receptor by RT-PCR; while serum insulin was quantified by ELISA method. A liver histological analysis was also performed by H&E stain. Results: Chemical fingerprint showed five majoritarian compounds in the aqueous extract of C. ficifolia: p-coumaric acid, p-hydroxybenzoic acid, salicin, stigmast-7,2,2-dien-3-ol and stigmast-7-en-3-ol. The histological analysis showed accumulation of liver glycogen. Also, increased glycogen synthase and decreased glycogen phosphorylase were observed. Interestingly, the histological architecture evidenced a liver-protective effect due the extract. Conclusion: Five compounds were identified in C. ficifolia aqueous extract. The hypoglycemic effect of this extract may be partially explained by liver glycogen accumulation. The bioactive compound responsible for the hypoglycemic effect of this extract will be elucidated in subsequent studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Garcia Gonzalez Jessica
- Postgrad in Experimental Biology, Division of Health and Biological Sciences (DCBS), Metropolitan Autonomous University Campus Iztapalapa (UAMI), D.F. Mexico 09340, Mexico
| | - Garcia Lorenzana Mario
- Neurobiology Tissue Laboratory, Department of Reproduction Biology, DCBS, UAMI D.F. Mexico 09340, Mexico
| | - Zamilpa Alejandro
- Biomedical Research Center South (CIBIS), Mexican Institute of Social Security (IMSS) Xochitepec, Morelos 62790, Mexico
| | | | - Jasso Villagomez E Ivan
- Pharmacology Laboratory, Department of Health Sciences, DCBS, UAMI, D.F. Mexico 09340, Mexico
| | - Roman Ramos Ruben
- Pharmacology Laboratory, Department of Health Sciences, DCBS, UAMI, D.F. Mexico 09340, Mexico
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Fortis-Barrera Á, García-Macedo R, Almanza-Perez JC, Blancas-Flores G, Zamilpa-Alvarez A, Flores-Sáenz JL, Cruz M, Román-Ramos R, Alarcón-Aguilar FJ. Cucurbita ficifolia (Cucurbitaceae) modulates inflammatory cytokines and IFN-γ in obese mice. Can J Physiol Pharmacol 2017; 95:170-177. [PMID: 27918843 DOI: 10.1139/cjpp-2015-0475] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2023]
Abstract
This study investigated the effect of aqueous extract of Cucurbita ficifolia Bouché on systemic chronic inflammation in an obesity model induced by monosodium glutamate (MSG) via modulating the expression of adipokines (TNF-α, IL-6, resistin, and adiponectin) and immune-regulatory cytokines (IFN-γ and IL-10). Cucurbita ficifolia extract was administered daily by gavage to lean and MSG-obese mice for 30 days. At the end of treatment, cytokine mRNA expression in adipose tissue was determined by real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR), and the protein levels of these cytokines were also quantified by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Cucurbita ficifolia extract decreased body mass and inflammation in MSG-obese mice by reducing the expression of TNF-α and IL-6; these decreases were parallel to significant reductions in protein levels. The extract also increased protein levels of IL-10 in lean mice and IFN-γ in both lean and MSG-obese mice. In conclusion, C. ficifolia extract modulates systemic chronic inflammation in MSG-obese mice and could have a beneficial effect on the adaptive immune system in obesity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Á Fortis-Barrera
- a Laboratory of Pharmacology, Department of Health Sciences, Division of Health and Biological Sciences, Metropolitan Autonomous University of Iztapalapa, 186 S. San Rafael Atlixco, Col. Vicentina, 09340, México, D.F
| | - R García-Macedo
- b Hospital of Specialties, CMNSXXI, Mexican Institute of Social Security (IMSS), 330 S. Cuauhtémoc, Col. Doctores, 06720, México, D.F
| | - J C Almanza-Perez
- a Laboratory of Pharmacology, Department of Health Sciences, Division of Health and Biological Sciences, Metropolitan Autonomous University of Iztapalapa, 186 S. San Rafael Atlixco, Col. Vicentina, 09340, México, D.F
| | - G Blancas-Flores
- a Laboratory of Pharmacology, Department of Health Sciences, Division of Health and Biological Sciences, Metropolitan Autonomous University of Iztapalapa, 186 S. San Rafael Atlixco, Col. Vicentina, 09340, México, D.F
| | - A Zamilpa-Alvarez
- c South Biomedical Research Center, Mexican Institute of Social Security (IMSS), Argentina No. 1, Xochitepec, 62790, Morelos, México
| | - J L Flores-Sáenz
- a Laboratory of Pharmacology, Department of Health Sciences, Division of Health and Biological Sciences, Metropolitan Autonomous University of Iztapalapa, 186 S. San Rafael Atlixco, Col. Vicentina, 09340, México, D.F
| | - M Cruz
- b Hospital of Specialties, CMNSXXI, Mexican Institute of Social Security (IMSS), 330 S. Cuauhtémoc, Col. Doctores, 06720, México, D.F
| | - R Román-Ramos
- a Laboratory of Pharmacology, Department of Health Sciences, Division of Health and Biological Sciences, Metropolitan Autonomous University of Iztapalapa, 186 S. San Rafael Atlixco, Col. Vicentina, 09340, México, D.F
| | - F J Alarcón-Aguilar
- a Laboratory of Pharmacology, Department of Health Sciences, Division of Health and Biological Sciences, Metropolitan Autonomous University of Iztapalapa, 186 S. San Rafael Atlixco, Col. Vicentina, 09340, México, D.F
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Ebrahimi E, Shirali S, Afrisham R. Effect and Mechanism of Herbal Ingredients in Improving Diabetes Mellitus Complications. Jundishapur J Nat Pharm Prod 2016. [DOI: 10.17795/jjnpp-31657] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
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Ebrahimi E, Shirali S, Afrisham R. Effect and Mechanism of Herbal Ingredients in Improving Diabetes Mellitus Complications. Jundishapur J Nat Pharm Prod 2016; 12. [DOI: 10.5812/jjnpp.31657] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/17/2025] Open
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Sacchi S, Marinaro F, Tondelli D, Lui J, Xella S, Marsella T, Tagliasacchi D, Argento C, Tirelli A, Giulini S, La Marca A. Modulation of gonadotrophin induced steroidogenic enzymes in granulosa cells by d-chiroinositol. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2016; 14:52. [PMID: 27582109 PMCID: PMC5006365 DOI: 10.1186/s12958-016-0189-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2016] [Accepted: 08/23/2016] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND d-chiroinositol (DCI) is a inositolphosphoglycan (IPG) involved in several cellular functions that control the glucose metabolism. DCI functions as second messenger in the insulin signaling pathway and it is considered an insulin sensitizer since deficiency in tissue availability of DCI were shown to cause insulin resistance (IR). Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a pathological condition that is often accompanied with insulin resistance. DCI can positively affects several aspect of PCOS etiology decreasing the total and free testosterone, lowering blood pressure, improving the glucose metabolism and increasing the ovulation frequency. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effects of DCI and insulin combined with gonadotrophins namely follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH) on key steroidogenic enzymes genes regulation, cytochrome P450 family 19 subfamily A member 1 (CYP19A1) and cytochrome P450 side-chain cleavage (P450scc) in primary cultures of human granulosa cells (hGCs). We also investigated whether DCI, being an insulin-sensitizer would be able to counteract the expected stimulator activity of insulin on human granulosa cells (hGCs). METHODS The study was conducted on primary cultures of hGCs. Gene expression was evaluated by RT-qPCR method. Statistical analysis was performed applying student t-test, as appropriate (P < 0.05) set for statistical significance. RESULTS DCI is able to reduce the gene expression of CYP19A1, P450scc and insulin-like growth factor 1 receptor (IGF-1R) in dose-response manner. The presence of DCI impaired the increased expression of steroidogenic enzyme genes generated by the insulin treatment in gonadotrophin-stimulated hGCs. CONCLUSIONS Insulin acts as co-gonadotrophin increasing the expression of steroidogenic enzymes genes in gonadotrophin-stimulated granulosa cells. DCI is an insulin-sensitizer that counteracts this action by reducing the expression of the genes CYP19A1, P450scc and IGF-1R. The ability of DCI to modulate in vitro ovarian activity of insulin could in part explain its beneficial effect when used as treatment for conditions associated to insulin resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandro Sacchi
- Mother-Infant Department, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Via del pozzo 41, 41100 Modena, Italy
| | - Federica Marinaro
- Mother-Infant Department, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Via del pozzo 41, 41100 Modena, Italy
| | - Debora Tondelli
- Mother-Infant Department, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Via del pozzo 41, 41100 Modena, Italy
| | - Jessica Lui
- Mother-Infant Department, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Via del pozzo 41, 41100 Modena, Italy
| | - Susanna Xella
- Mother-Infant Department, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Via del pozzo 41, 41100 Modena, Italy
| | - Tiziana Marsella
- Mother-Infant Department, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Via del pozzo 41, 41100 Modena, Italy
| | - Daniela Tagliasacchi
- Mother-Infant Department, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Via del pozzo 41, 41100 Modena, Italy
| | - Cindy Argento
- Mother-Infant Department, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Via del pozzo 41, 41100 Modena, Italy
| | - Alessandra Tirelli
- Mother-Infant Department, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Via del pozzo 41, 41100 Modena, Italy
| | - Simone Giulini
- Mother-Infant Department, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Via del pozzo 41, 41100 Modena, Italy
| | - Antonio La Marca
- University of Modena and Reggio Emilia and Clinica Eugin Modena, Modena, Italy
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Miranda-Perez ME, Ortega-Camarillo C, Del Carmen Escobar-Villanueva M, Blancas-Flores G, Alarcon-Aguilar FJ. Cucurbita ficifolia Bouché increases insulin secretion in RINm5F cells through an influx of Ca(2+) from the endoplasmic reticulum. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2016; 188:159-166. [PMID: 27174079 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2016.04.061] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2015] [Revised: 04/15/2016] [Accepted: 04/28/2016] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL IMPORTANCE Cucurbita ficifolia Bouché(C. ficifolia) is a plant used in Mexican traditional medicine to control type 2 diabetes (T2D). The hypoglycemic effect of the fruit of C. ficifolia has been demonstrated in different experimental models and in T2D patients. It has been proposed that D-chiro-inositol (DCI) is the active compound of the fruit. Additionally, it has been reported that C. ficifolia increases the mRNA expression of insulin and Kir 6.2 (a component of the ATP-sensitive potassium (K(+)ATP) channel, which is activated by sulphonylurea) in RINm5F cells. However, it remains unclear whether C. ficifolia and DCI causes the secretion of insulin by increasing the concentration of intracellular calcium ([Ca(2+)]i) through K(+)ATP channel blockage or from the reservoir in the endoplasmic reticulum (ER). MATERIAL AND METHODS The aqueous extract of C. ficifolia was obtained and standardized with regard to its DCI content. RINm5F pancreatic β-cells were incubated with different concentrations (50, 100, 200 and 400μM) of DCI alone or C. ficifolia (9, 18, 36 and 72µg of extract/mL), and the [Ca(2+)]i of the cells was quantified. The cells were preloaded with the Ca(2+) fluorescent dye fluo4-acetoxymethyl ester (AM) and visualized by confocal microscopy. Insulin secretion was measured by an ELISA method. Subsequently, the effect of C. ficifolia on the K(+)ATP channel was evaluated. In this case, the blocker activator diazoxide was used to inhibit the C. ficifolia-induced calcium influx. In addition, the inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate (IP3)-receptor-selective inhibitor 2-amino-thoxydiphenylborate (2-APB) was used to inhibit the influx of calcium from the ER that was induced by C. ficifolia. RESULTS It was found that DCI alone did not increase [Ca(2+)]i or insulin secretion. In contrast, treatment with C. ficifolia increased [Ca(2+)]i 10-fold compared with the control group. Insulin secretion increased by 46.9%. In the presence of diazoxide, C. ficifolia decreased [Ca(2+)]i by 50%, while insulin secretion increased by 36.4%. In contrast, in the presence of 2-APB, C. ficifolia increased [Ca(2+)]i 18-fold, while insulin secretion remained constant, indicating an additive effect. Therefore, C. ficifolia was not found to block the K(+)ATP channel. However, it did exert an effect by increasing [Ca(2+)]i from the ER, which may partly explain the insulin secretion observed following treatment with C. ficifolia. CONCLUSIONS The hypoglycemic properties of C. ficifolia can be explained in part by its effect as a secretagogue for insulin through an increase in [Ca(2+)]i from the calcium reservoir in the ER. Therefore, the mechanism of action of C. ficifolia is different to those of the currently used hypoglycemic drugs, such as sulfonylureas. These results support that C. ficifolia may be a potential natural resource for new agents to control T2D.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Elizabeth Miranda-Perez
- Division de Ciencia Biologicas y de la Salud (DCBS), Universidad Autonoma Metropolitana Unidad Iztapalapa (UAM-I), Avenida San Rafael Atlixco 186, Ciudad de Mexico, Mexico.
| | - Clara Ortega-Camarillo
- Unidad de Investigacion Medica en Bioquimica, HE, Centro Medico Nacional Siglo XXI. IMSS, Av. Cuauhtemoc 330, Col. Doctores, Del. Cuauhtemoc, Ciudad de Mexico, Mexico.
| | | | - Gerardo Blancas-Flores
- Laboratorio de Farmacología, Departamento de Ciencias de la Salud, DCBS, UAM-I, Avenida San Rafael Atlixco 186, Ciudad de Mexico, Mexico.
| | - Francisco Javier Alarcon-Aguilar
- Laboratorio de Farmacología, Departamento de Ciencias de la Salud, DCBS, UAM-I, Avenida San Rafael Atlixco 186, Ciudad de Mexico, Mexico.
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25
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Bustos-Brito C, Andrade-Cetto A, Giraldo-Aguirre JD, Moreno-Vargas AD, Quijano L. Acute hypoglycemic effect and phytochemical composition of Ageratina petiolaris. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2016; 185:341-346. [PMID: 27013093 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2016.03.048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2015] [Revised: 02/23/2016] [Accepted: 03/20/2016] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Type 2 diabetes is characterized by tissue resistance to the action of insulin combined with a relative deficiency in insulin secretion. In Mexico, medicinal plants have traditionally been used to control the disease; in this work, we investigate the hypoglycemic effect of Ageratina petiolaris, a plant used in Mexico for the treatment of diabetes. METHODS The hypoglycemic effects of aqueous and methanolic extracts prepared from aerial parts of Ageratina petiolaris in streptozotocin-nicotinamide (STZ-NA) induced diabetic rats were assessed. An oral administration of the water extract at doses of 40 and 160mg/kg and of the methanol extract at doses of 67 and 268mg/kg were evaluated. Furthermore, the water extract at 160mg/kg was evaluated under an Oral Glucose Tolerance Test. RESULTS The tested extracts were able to reduce the increase in blood glucose level at three hours after administration. l-chiro-inositol and chlorogenic acid were isolated as important constituents of the plant, they were identified in both extracts along with other constituents. CONCLUSIONS The results presented here demonstrate that the main components in the aqueous extract of Ageratina petiolaris are chlorogenic acid and l-chiro-inositol, the last one with significant hypoglycemic activity, these results support the traditional use of this plant for the treatment of type 2 diabetes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Celia Bustos-Brito
- Instituto de Química, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, 04510 México CD. MX., Mexico
| | - Adolfo Andrade-Cetto
- Laboratorio de Etnofarmacología, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, 04510 México CD. MX., Mexico.
| | | | - Angelina Daniela Moreno-Vargas
- Laboratorio de Etnofarmacología, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, 04510 México CD. MX., Mexico
| | - Leovigildo Quijano
- Instituto de Química, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, 04510 México CD. MX., Mexico
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Thomas MP, Mills SJ, Potter BVL. The "Other" Inositols and Their Phosphates: Synthesis, Biology, and Medicine (with Recent Advances in myo-Inositol Chemistry). Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2016; 55:1614-50. [PMID: 26694856 PMCID: PMC5156312 DOI: 10.1002/anie.201502227] [Citation(s) in RCA: 117] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2015] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Cell signaling via inositol phosphates, in particular via the second messenger myo-inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate, and phosphoinositides comprises a huge field of biology. Of the nine 1,2,3,4,5,6-cyclohexanehexol isomers, myo-inositol is pre-eminent, with "other" inositols (cis-, epi-, allo-, muco-, neo-, L-chiro-, D-chiro-, and scyllo-) and derivatives rarer or thought not to exist in nature. However, neo- and d-chiro-inositol hexakisphosphates were recently revealed in both terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems, thus highlighting the paucity of knowledge of the origins and potential biological functions of such stereoisomers, a prevalent group of environmental organic phosphates, and their parent inositols. Some "other" inositols are medically relevant, for example, scyllo-inositol (neurodegenerative diseases) and d-chiro-inositol (diabetes). It is timely to consider exploration of the roles and applications of the "other" isomers and their derivatives, likely by exploiting techniques now well developed for the myo series.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark P Thomas
- Department of Pharmacy & Pharmacology, University of Bath, Claverton Down, Bath, BA2 7AY, UK
| | - Stephen J Mills
- Department of Pharmacy & Pharmacology, University of Bath, Claverton Down, Bath, BA2 7AY, UK
| | - Barry V L Potter
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Oxford, Mansfield Road, Oxford, OX1 3QT, UK.
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27
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Thomas MP, Mills SJ, Potter BVL. Die “anderen” Inositole und ihre Phosphate: Synthese, Biologie und Medizin (sowie jüngste Fortschritte in dermyo-Inositolchemie). Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2015. [DOI: 10.1002/ange.201502227] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Mark P. Thomas
- Department of Pharmacy & Pharmacology; University of Bath; Claverton Down Bath BA2 7AY Vereinigtes Königreich
| | - Stephen J. Mills
- Department of Pharmacy & Pharmacology; University of Bath; Claverton Down Bath BA2 7AY Vereinigtes Königreich
| | - Barry V. L. Potter
- Department of Pharmacology; University of Oxford; Mansfield Road Oxford OX1 3QT Vereinigtes Königreich
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El-Abhar HS, Schaalan MF. Phytotherapy in diabetes: Review on potential mechanistic perspectives. World J Diabetes 2014; 5:176-197. [PMID: 24748931 PMCID: PMC3990312 DOI: 10.4239/wjd.v5.i2.176] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2013] [Revised: 01/07/2014] [Accepted: 03/14/2014] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a widely spread epidemic disease that results from the absence of insulin, decreased secretion and/or impaired function. Since DM is a multi-factorial disease, the available pharmaceuticals, despite their sensible treatment, target mostly one pathway to control hyperglycemia and encounter several side effects. Therefore, new therapeutic paradigms aim to hit several pathways using only one agent. Traditionally, antidiabetic plants and/or their active constituents may fulfill this need. More than 200 species of plants possess antidiabetic properties which were evaluated mostly by screening tests without digging far for the exact mode of action. Searching among the different literature resources and various database and in view of the above aspects, the present article provides a comprehensive review on the available antidiabetic plants that have been approved by pharmacological and clinical evaluations, and which their mechanism(s) of action is assured. These plants are categorized according to their proved mode of action and are classified into those that act by inhibiting glucose absorption from intestine, increasing insulin secretion from the pancreas, inhibiting glucose production from hepatocytes, or enhancing glucose uptake by adipose and muscle tissues. The current review also highlights those that mimic in their action the new peptide analogs, such as exenatide, liraglutide and dipeptidylpeptidase-4 inhibitors that increase glucagon-like peptide-1 serum concentration and slow down the gastric emptying.
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Fortis-Barrera Á, Alarcón-Aguilar FJ, Banderas-Dorantes T, Díaz-Flores M, Román-Ramos R, Cruz M, García-Macedo R. C
ucurbita ficifolia Bouché (Cucurbitaceae) and D-chiro-inositol modulate the redox state and inflammation in 3T3-L1 adipocytes. J Pharm Pharmacol 2013; 65:1563-76. [DOI: 10.1111/jphp.12119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2012] [Accepted: 06/18/2013] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Abstract
Objectives
Cucurbita ficifolia (characterised by its D chiro inositol (DCI) content) and of synthetic DCI on the redox state, mRNA expression and secretions of proinflammatory cytokines. Additionally, we evaluated the insulin-mimetic action of both treatments by assessing protein kinase B (PKB) activation in 3T3-L1 adipocytes.
Methods
Adipocytes were treated with C. ficifolia and synthetic DCI. The redox state was determined by spectrophotometry as changes in the reduced glutathione/oxidised glutathione (GSH/GSSG) ratio, glutathione peroxidase and glutathione reductase activities; H2O2 levels were measured by flow cytometry. The mRNA expression and the protein level of cytokines were determinate by real-time reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, respectively. The activation of PKB activation was detected by Western blot.
Key findings
C. ficifolia extract and synthetic DCI reduced oxidative stress by decreased H2O2 levels, increased glutathione peroxidase activity and changes in the GSH/GSSG ratio. Furthermore, DCI decreased the mRNA expression and secretion of tumour necrosis factor-α, interleukin 6 (IL-6) and resistin, while C. ficifolia reduced protein levels of resistin and increased IL-6 levels. Only DCI demonstrated insulin-mimetic action.
Conclusions
The antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects of C. ficifolia extract can be explained in part by its DCI content, which modulates the GSH/GSSG ratio and contributes to a reduced proinflammatory state. C. ficifolia and DCI treatments may reduce the disturbances caused by oxidative stress. Additionally, DCI may improve insulin sensitivity through its insulin-mimetic effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ángeles Fortis-Barrera
- Posgrade in Experimental Biology, Division of Health and Biological Sciences, Metropolitan Autonomous University of Iztapalapa, Doctores, Mexico DF, Mexico
- Department of Health Sciences, Division of Health and Biological Sciences, Metropolitan Autonomous University of Iztapalapa, Doctores, Mexico DF, Mexico
- Unit of Medical Investigation in Biochemistry, Hospital of Specialties, CMNSXXI, Mexican Institute of Social Security, Doctores, Mexico DF, Mexico
| | - Francisco Javier Alarcón-Aguilar
- Department of Health Sciences, Division of Health and Biological Sciences, Metropolitan Autonomous University of Iztapalapa, Doctores, Mexico DF, Mexico
| | - Tania Banderas-Dorantes
- Department of Health Sciences, Division of Health and Biological Sciences, Metropolitan Autonomous University of Iztapalapa, Doctores, Mexico DF, Mexico
| | - Margarita Díaz-Flores
- Unit of Medical Investigation in Biochemistry, Hospital of Specialties, CMNSXXI, Mexican Institute of Social Security, Doctores, Mexico DF, Mexico
| | - Rubén Román-Ramos
- Department of Health Sciences, Division of Health and Biological Sciences, Metropolitan Autonomous University of Iztapalapa, Doctores, Mexico DF, Mexico
| | - Miguel Cruz
- Unit of Medical Investigation in Biochemistry, Hospital of Specialties, CMNSXXI, Mexican Institute of Social Security, Doctores, Mexico DF, Mexico
| | - Rebeca García-Macedo
- Unit of Medical Investigation in Biochemistry, Hospital of Specialties, CMNSXXI, Mexican Institute of Social Security, Doctores, Mexico DF, Mexico
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Díaz-Flores M, Angeles-Mejia S, Baiza-Gutman LA, Medina-Navarro R, Hernández-Saavedra D, Ortega-Camarillo C, Roman-Ramos R, Cruz M, Alarcon-Aguilar FJ. Effect of an aqueous extract of Cucurbita ficifolia Bouché on the glutathione redox cycle in mice with STZ-induced diabetes. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2012; 144:101-108. [PMID: 22960550 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2012.08.036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2012] [Revised: 08/12/2012] [Accepted: 08/25/2012] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL IMPORTANCE Cucurbita ficifolia is used in Mexican traditional medicine as an anti-diabetic and anti-inflammatory agent and its actions can be mediated by antioxidant mechanisms. Disturbance in the homeostasis of glutathione has been implicated in the etiology and progression of diabetes mellitus and its complications. MATERIAL AND METHODS It was evaluated, the effect of an aqueous extract of Cucurbita ficifolia on glycemia, plasma lipid peroxidation; as well as levels of reduced (GSH) and oxidized (GSSG) glutathione and activities of enzymes involved in glutathione redox cycle: glutathione peroxidase (GPx) and glutathione reductase (GR) in liver, pancreas, kidney and heart homogenates of streptozotocin-induced diabetic mice. RESULTS Increased blood glucose and lipid peroxidation, together with decreased of GSH concentration, GSH/GSSG ratio and its redox potential (E(h)), and enhanced activity of GPx and GR in liver, pancreas and kidney were the salient features observed in diabetic mice. Administration of the aqueous extract of Cucurbita ficifolia to diabetic mice for 30 days, used at a dose of 200 mg/kg, resulted in a significant reduction in glycemia, polydipsia, hyperphagia and plasma lipid peroxidation. Moreover, GSH was increased in liver, pancreas and kidney, and GSSG was reduced in liver, pancreas and heart, therefore GSH/GSSG ratio and its E(h) were restored. Also, the activities involved in the glutathione cycle were decreased, reaching similar values to controls. CONCLUSIONS An aqueous extract of Cucurbita ficifolia with hypoglycemic action, improve GSH redox state, increasing glutathione pool, GSH, GSH/GSSG ratio and its E(h), mechanism that can explain, at least in part, its antioxidant properties, supporting its use as an alternative treatment for the control of diabetes mellitus, and prevent the induction of complications by oxidative stress.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Díaz-Flores
- Unidad de Investigación Médica en Bioquímica, Hospital de Especialidades, Centro Médico Nacional Siglo XXI, IMSS, México, México.
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Roman-Ramos R, Almanza-Perez JC, Fortis-Barrera A, Angeles-Mejia S, Banderas-Dorantes TR, Zamilpa-Alvarez A, Diaz-Flores M, Jasso I, Blancas-Flores G, Gomez J, Alarcon-Aguilar FJ. Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects of a hypoglycemic fraction from Cucurbita ficifolia Bouché in streptozotocin-induced diabetes mice. THE AMERICAN JOURNAL OF CHINESE MEDICINE 2012; 40:97-110. [PMID: 22298451 DOI: 10.1142/s0192415x12500085] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Type 2 diabetes is characterized by oxidative stress and a chronic low-grade inflammatory state, which also play roles in the pathogenesis of this disease and the accompanying vascular complications by increasing the production of free radicals and pro-inflammatory cytokines. Cucurbita ficifolia Bouché (C. ficifolia) is an edible Mexican plant whose hypoglycemic activity has been demonstrated in several experimental and clinical conditions. Recently, D-chiro-inositol has been proposed as the compound responsible for the hypoglycemic effects; however, the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory potential of this plant has not yet been explored. The aim of this research is to study the influence of a hypoglycemic, D-chiro-inositol-containing fraction from the C. ficifolia fruit (AP-Fraction) on biomarkers of oxidative stress, as well as on the inflammatory cytokines in streptozotocin-induced diabetes. The AP-Fraction obtained from the mature fruit of C. ficifolia contained 3.31 mg of D-chiro-inositol/g of AP-Fraction. The AP-Fraction was administrated daily by gavage to normal mice for 15 days as a preventive treatment. Then these animals were given streptozotocin, and the treatments were continued for an additional 33 days. Pioglitazone was used as a hypoglycemic drug for comparison. Administration of the AP-Fraction significantly increased glutathione (GSH) and decreased malondialdehyde (MDA) in the liver without significantly affecting the levels in other tissues. The AP-Fraction reduced TNF-α and increased IL-6 and IFN-γ in serum. Interestingly, the AP-Fraction also increased IL-10, an anti-inflammatory cytokine. These results suggest that C. ficifolia might be used as an alternative medication for the control of diabetes mellitus and that it has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties in addition to its hypoglycemic activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Roman-Ramos
- Department of Health Sciences, Universidad Autonoma Metropolitana, Mexico, D.F., Mexico
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Abstract
The use of herbal remedies individually or in combination with standard medicines has been used in various medical treatises for the cure of different diseases. Pumpkin is one of the well-known edible plants and has substantial medicinal properties due to the presence of unique natural edible substances. It contains several phyto-constituents belonging to the categories of alkaloids, flavonoids, and palmitic, oleic and linoleic acids. Various important medicinal properties including anti-diabetic, antioxidant, anti-carcinogenic, anti-inflammatory and others have been well documented. The purpose of the present article is to discuss various medicinal and biological potentials of pumpkin that can impart further research developments with this plant for human health benefits.
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