Diospyros lotus leaf extract and its main component myricitrin regulate pruritus through the inhibition of astrocyte activation.

The study focuses on the potential use of the plant extract and its main component, myricetin, in alleviating histamine-independent pruritus (itching). By evaluating the effects on signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) activation, glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) expression, and lipocalin-2 (LCN2) production in astrocytes, as well as scratching behavior, mast cell infiltration, and IL-6 levels in mice, the researchers found that the extract and myricetin inhibited STAT3 activation, GFAP expression, and LCN2 release in astrocytes. Moreover, they also ameliorated scratching behavior and other allergic responses in mice. These findings suggest that the plant extract and myricetin could be potential therapeutic agents for the treatment of pruritus.

Shin JY et al (2023).

Exp Ther Med.

DOI:

10.3892/etm.2023.12022

PubMed:

37346401

Bio-enhanced fraction from Clitoria ternatea root extract ameliorates cognitive functions and in vivo hippocampal neuroplasticity in chronic cerebral hypoperfusion rat model.

Clitoria ternatea root extract, particularly clitorienolactones A (CLA), improved cognitive deficits in rats with chronic cerebral hypoperfusion. It reduced amyloid-beta plaque, restored synaptic signaling proteins, and showed potential in treating cognitive decline.

Ahad MA et al (2023).

Ageing Res Rev.

DOI:

10.1016/j.arr.2023.101990

PubMed:

37343678

Oral ellagic acid attenuated LPS-induced neuroinflammation in rat brain: MEK1 interaction and M2 microglial polarization.

In this study, researchers investigated the cellular mechanism behind the anti-inflammatory effects of ellagic acid, a compound found in peels of L. that has traditional uses in treating traumatic hemorrhage. They found that ellagic acid inhibited the phosphorylation of ERK and subsequent neuroinflammation induced by lipopolysaccharides (LPSs) in treated BV-2 cells. Additionally, ellagic acid attenuated LPS-induced changes in various biomarkers associated with neuroinflammation, protein aggregation, and programmed cell deaths in the infused substantia nigra. The results suggest that ellagic acid has potential as a neuroprotective agent through inhibiting MEK1-ERK signaling and promoting M2 microglial polarization.

Liu YL et al (2023).

Exp Biol Med (Maywood).

DOI:

10.1177/15353702231182230

PubMed:

37340785

Exploring the Potential Molecular Mechanism of the Shugan Jieyu Capsule in the Treatment of Depression through Network Pharmacology, Molecular Docking, and Molecular Dynamics Simulation.

Shugan Jieyu Capsule (SJC) is a Chinese medicine compound that uses Hypericum perforatum and Acanthopanacis Senticosi. It is currently used to treat depression, but how it works is not fully understood. Further research is needed to determine the mechanism of action. Understanding this could lead to improved treatment options and potentially help more people in the future.

Liu Z et al (2023).

Curr Comput Aided Drug Des.

DOI:

10.2174/1573409919666230619105254

PubMed:

37340752

Multi-target bioactive compound screening from the infructescence of Platycarya strobilacea Sieb. et Zucc. by affinity chromatography using immobilized β(2) -adrenoceptor and muscarinic-3 acetylcholine receptor as the stationary phase.

Zhang H, Wang J and Wang C (2023).

J Sep Sci.

DOI:

10.1002/jssc.202300129

PubMed:

37339788

Sleep-promoting activity of amylase-treated Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera L. Dunal) root extract via GABA receptors.

In this study, researchers evaluated the sleep-promoting effects of enzyme-treated Ashwagandha root extract (EA). The study found that EA increased sleep duration and improved sleep quality and quantity. It also effectively relieved caffeine-induced insomnia symptoms. The mechanism behind these effects was identified as the activation of the GABAergic system, which is involved in sleep regulation. This research suggests that EA could be used as a functional material to improve sleep deprivation.

Park CW et al (2023).

J Food Drug Anal.

DOI:

10.38212/2224-6614.3456

PubMed:

37335157

Centella asiatica (L.) Urban. Attenuates Cell Damage in Hydrogen Peroxide-Induced Oxidative Stress in Transgenic Murine Embryonic Stem Cell Line-Derived Neural-Like Cells: A Preliminary Study for Potential Treatment of Alzheimer's Disease.

Summary: Centella asiatica, also known as Gotu Kola, is popular in South East and South East Asian communities for its nutritional and medicinal advantages. In addition to its traditional uses for memory enhancement and wound healing, this plant's phytochemicals have been well-studied for their neuroprotective, neuroregenerative, and antioxidant properties. This research highlights the potential of Centella asiatica in promoting brain health and fighting against oxidative stress, making it a valuable plant for further investigation and potential therapeutic applications.

Mansor NI et al (2023).

J Alzheimers Dis.

DOI:

10.3233/JAD-221233

PubMed:

37334592

Cannabis sativa-based oils against aluminum-induced neurotoxicity.

Terpenoid compounds found in Cannabis sativa plants, specifically the delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD), have already shown central and peripheral activities in treating brain diseases like Alzheimer's and multiple sclerosis. In this study, we examined the effects of CBD- and THC-rich oils on aluminum (Al)-induced toxicity using the zebrafish model. We measured behavioral biomarkers and biochemical markers related to neurotoxicity. The results showed that the oils increased the activity of the enzyme acetylcholinesterase, which helped the cholinergic nervous system combat Al toxicity. These findings suggest that CBD- and THC-based oils may protect against neurological and antioxidant impairment caused by Al intoxications, and could have potential in preventing related conditions.

Alves C et al (2023).

Sci Rep.

DOI:

10.1038/s41598-023-36966-9

PubMed:

37330587