In this overview,the current knowledge of the constituents of flavonoids isolated from the roots of Sophora flavescens(kushen)is updated.Flavonoids consist of several classes,such as flavanones,flavonols,chalcones,iso...In this overview,the current knowledge of the constituents of flavonoids isolated from the roots of Sophora flavescens(kushen)is updated.Flavonoids consist of several classes,such as flavanones,flavonols,chalcones,isoflavones,biflavonoids,flavanols,and flavones.The most common compounds are kurarinone(KRN),sophoraflavanone G(SFG),2′-methoxykurarinone,kuraridine,isoxanthohumol,and formononetin.KRN and SFG are two major flavanones with more vital anticancer properties than other flavonoids.From the literature,the cytotoxic values of KRN and SFG are variable and depend on the type of cancer cells tested.The anticancer activities of these two flavonoids involve different molecular mechanisms.Clinical trials are needed before anticancer drugs from KRN and SFG can be developed.展开更多
Ursolic acid(UA) is a pentacyclic triterpene of the ursane type. As a common chemical constituent among species of the family Lamiaceae, UA possesses a broad spectrum of pharmacological properties. This overview focus...Ursolic acid(UA) is a pentacyclic triterpene of the ursane type. As a common chemical constituent among species of the family Lamiaceae, UA possesses a broad spectrum of pharmacological properties. This overview focuses on the anticancer properties of UA against breast cancer(BC) and colorectal cancer(CRC)that are most common among women and men, respectively. In vitro studies have shown that UA inhibited the growth of BC and CRC cell lines through various molecular targets and signaling pathways.There are several in vivo studies on the cytotoxic activity of UA against BC and CRC. UA also inhibits the growth of other types of cancer. Studies on structural modifications of UA have shown that the –OH groups at C3 and at C28 are critical factors influencing the cytotoxic activity of UA and its derivatives.Some needs for future research are suggested. Sources of information were from ScienceDirect, Google Scholar and PubMed.展开更多
Flavonoids are by far the most dominant class of phenolic compounds isolated from Morus alba leaves(MAL). Other classes of compounds are benzofurans, phenolic acids, alkaloids, coumarins, chalcones and stilbenes. Majo...Flavonoids are by far the most dominant class of phenolic compounds isolated from Morus alba leaves(MAL). Other classes of compounds are benzofurans, phenolic acids, alkaloids, coumarins, chalcones and stilbenes. Major flavonoids are kuwanons, moracinflavans, moragrols and morkotins. Other major compounds include moracins(benzofurans), caffeoylquinic acids(phenolic acids) and morachalcones(chalcones). Research on the anticancer properties of MAL entailed in vitro and in vivo cytotoxicity of extracts or isolated compounds. Flavonoids, benzofurans, chalcones and alkaloids are classes of compounds from MAL that have been found to be cytotoxic towards human cancer cell lines. Further studies on the phytochemistry and anticancer of MAL are suggested. Sources of information were Pub Med,Pub Med Central, Science Direct, Google, Google Scholar, J-Stage, Pub Chem and China National Knowledge Infrastructure.展开更多
This short review provides an update of the anticancer and anti-inflammatory properties of casticin from Vitex species. Casticin is a polymethylflavone with three rings, an orthocatechol moiety, a double bond,two hydr...This short review provides an update of the anticancer and anti-inflammatory properties of casticin from Vitex species. Casticin is a polymethylflavone with three rings, an orthocatechol moiety, a double bond,two hydroxyl groups and four methoxyl groups. Casticin has been isolated from various tissues of plants in the Vitex genus: fruits and leaves of V. trifolia, aerial parts and seeds of V. agnus-castus and leaves of V.negundo. Studies have reported the antiproliferative and apoptotic activities of casticin from Vitex species.The compound is effective against many cancer cell lines via different molecular mechanisms. Studies have also affirmed the anti-inflammatory properties of casticin, with several molecular mechanisms identified. Other pharmacological properties include anti-asthmatic, tracheospasmolytic, analgesic, antihyperprolactinemia, immunomodulatory, opioidergic, oestrogenic, anti-angiogenic, antiglioma, lung injury protection, rheumatoid arthritis amelioration and liver fibrosis attenuation activities. Clinical trials and commercial use of the casticin-rich fruit extract of V. agnus-castus among women with premenstrual syndrome were briefly discussed.展开更多
The root bark of Morus alba L. or white mulberry is widely used as traditional medicine in China, Japan and Korea. Major classes and types of phenolic compounds isolated from the root bark are flavonoids(kuwanons, mor...The root bark of Morus alba L. or white mulberry is widely used as traditional medicine in China, Japan and Korea. Major classes and types of phenolic compounds isolated from the root bark are flavonoids(kuwanons, morusin, cyclomorusin and sanggenons), benzofurans(moracins and mulberrofurans), and stilbenoids(mulberrosides). Some of the flavonoids and benzofurans are products of Diel-Alder type adducts. Other classes of compounds include triterpenes, phenolic acids and coumarins. Morusin, a prenylated flavonoid, was first isolated from the root bark of M. alba, and later from the leaf, stem bark and twig of the plant. The potent anti-cancer properties of morusin have attracted much attention with research on-going and new findings being published. The compound inhibits angiogenesis, tumour progression and tumour migration, and triggers apoptosis, cell cycle arrest and autophagy in colorectal, cervical, prostate, breast, hepatoma, pancreatic, glioblastoma, gastric, ovarian and lung cancer cell lines. The anti-cancer activities of morusin are executed via various molecular targets and signalling pathways. It is anticipated that on-going in vitro studies will progress gradually to in vivo studies using animal models before efforts towards drug development can be initiated for clinical trials.展开更多
In this review, the phytochemistry and pharmacology of two ornamental gingers, Hedychium coronarium(butterfl y ginger) and Alpinia purpurata(red ginger), are updated, and their botany and uses are described. Flowers o...In this review, the phytochemistry and pharmacology of two ornamental gingers, Hedychium coronarium(butterfl y ginger) and Alpinia purpurata(red ginger), are updated, and their botany and uses are described. Flowers of H. coronarium are large, showy, white, yellow or white with a yellow centre and highly fragrant. Infl orescences of A. purpurata are erect spikes with attractive red or pink bracts. Phytochemical investigations on the rhizomes of H. coronarium generated research interest globally. This resulted in the isolation of 53 labdane-type diterpenes, with little work done on the leaves and fl owers. Pharmacological properties of H. coronarium included antioxidant, antibacterial, antifungal, cytotoxic, chemopreventive, anti-allergic, larvicidal, anthelminthic, analgesic, anti-infl ammatory, anti-urolithiatic, anti-angiogenic, neuropharmacological, fi brinogenolytic, coagulant and hepatoprotective activities. On the contrary, little is known on the phytochemistry of A. purpurata with pharmacological properties of antioxidant, antibacterial, larvicidal, cytotoxic and vasodilator activities reported in the leaves and rhizomes. There is much disparity in terms of research effort within and between these two ornamental gingers.展开更多
In this review, the botany and uses of Alpinia zerumbet(yan shan jiang) are described, and the current knowledge of its phytochemistry, pharmacological properties, and clinical trials is summarized. An important ginge...In this review, the botany and uses of Alpinia zerumbet(yan shan jiang) are described, and the current knowledge of its phytochemistry, pharmacological properties, and clinical trials is summarized. An important ginger crop in East Asia, A. zerumbet has many uses, both medicinal and non-medicinal. Leaves are used to produce essential oils and herbal teas. Rhizomes are consumed as spices, and stem fibers are made into paper, fabrics, and handicrafts. In Brazil, tea from A. zerumbet leaves is believed to have hypotensive, diuretic, and anti-ulcerogenic properties. This species possesses many medicinal properties due to its chemical constituents, including flavonoids, phenolic acids, phenylpropanoids, kava pyrones, sterols, and terpenoids. Extracts of A. zerumbet display antioxidant, antimicrobial, insecticidal, anthelmintic, tyrosinase and melanogenesis inhibitory, anti-atherogenic, anti-aging, anti-glycation, integrase and neuraminidase inhibitory, lifespan prolongation, hair growth promotion, anticancer, antidepressant, anxiolytic, anti-obesity, analgesic, anti-inflammatory, hypolipidemic, anti-ulcerogenic, anti-platelet, osteoblastic, osteogenic, thrombolytic, and cardiac arrhythmogenic activities. Essential oils of A. zerumbet leaves have antimicrobial, larvicidal, antinociceptive, hypotensive, vasorelaxant, myorelaxant, antispasmodic, antidepressant, anxiolytic, anti-neuraminidase, anti-atherogenic, anti-aging, anti-melanogenic, anti-tyrosinase, cytoprotective, cardiodepressive, antipsychotic, analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and tissue healing activities. Clinical trials conducted in Brazil showed that extracts of A. zerumbet have hypotensive and diuretic effects whereas topical application of the essential oil has positive therapeutic effects on patients with fibromyalgia. Spanning two continents of Asia and South America, A. zerumbet is truly a multi-purpose ginger plant with promising medicinal properties.展开更多
Tetrandrine(TET) and fangchinoline(FAN) are dominant bisbenzylisoquinoline(BBIQ) alkaloids from the roots of Stephania tetrandra of the family Menispermaceae. BBIQ alkaloids comprise two benzylisoquinoline units linke...Tetrandrine(TET) and fangchinoline(FAN) are dominant bisbenzylisoquinoline(BBIQ) alkaloids from the roots of Stephania tetrandra of the family Menispermaceae. BBIQ alkaloids comprise two benzylisoquinoline units linked by oxygen bridges. The molecular structures of TET and FAN are exactly the same, except that TET has a methoxy(-OCH3) group, while FAN has a hydroxyl(-OH) group at C7. In this overview,the current knowledge on the chemistry, pharmacology and anticancer properties of TET and FAN have been updated. The focus is on colon and breast cancer cells, because they are most susceptible to TET and FAN, respectively. Against colon cancer cells, TET inhibits cell proliferation and tumor growth by inducing apoptosis and G1 cell cycle arrest, and suppresses adhesion, migration and invasion of cells.Against breast cancer cells, FAN inhibits cell proliferation by inducing apoptosis, G1-phase cell cycle arrest and inhibits cell migration. The processes involve various molecular mechanisms and signaling pathways. Some insights on the ability of TET and FAN to reverse multi-drug resistance in cancer cells and suggestions for future research are provided.展开更多
Apocynaceae is a large family of tropical trees, shrubs and vines with most species producing white latex. Major metabolites of species are triterpenoids, iridoids, alkaloids and cardenolides, which are known for a wi...Apocynaceae is a large family of tropical trees, shrubs and vines with most species producing white latex. Major metabolites of species are triterpenoids, iridoids, alkaloids and cardenolides, which are known for a wide range of biological and pharmacological activities such as cardioprotective, hepatoprotective, neuroprotective, anti-inflammatory, anticancer and antimalarial properties. Prompted by their anticancer and antimalarial properties, the current knowledge on ten genera(Allamanda, Alstonia, Calotropis, Catharanthus, Cerbera, Dyera, Kopsia, Nerium, Plumeria and Vallaris) is updated. Major classes of metabolites are described using some species as examples. Species with antiproliferative(APF) and/or antiplasmodial(APM) properties have been identified. With the exception of the genus Dyera, nine genera of 22 species possess APF activity. Seven genera(Alstonia, Calotropis, Catharanthus, Dyera, Kopsia, Plumeria and Vallaris) of 13 species have APM properties. Among these species, Alstonia angustiloba, Alstonia macrophylla, Calotropis gigantea, Calotropis procera, Catharanthus roseus, Plumeria alba and Vallaris glabra displayed both APF and APM properties. The chemical constituents of these seven species are compiled for assessment and further research.展开更多
Emodin and shikonin are quinones that are commonly found in the roots of plant species of the families Polygonaceae and Boraginceae,respectively.They have a wide spectrum of bioactivities,including anti-cancer propert...Emodin and shikonin are quinones that are commonly found in the roots of plant species of the families Polygonaceae and Boraginceae,respectively.They have a wide spectrum of bioactivities,including anti-cancer properties.This overview on the cytotoxic properties of emodin and shikonin is focused on lung cancer,the leading cause of cancer death in the world.In emodin,the-OH groups at C1 and C3 positions,while in shikonin,the-OH groups of the naphthazarin moiety and chiral side-chain,are important for their anti-tumour functions.Studies have shown that emodin and shikonin inhibit the growth of lung cancer cells by inducing apoptosis,autophagy,necrosis and early senescence,and by inhibiting proliferation,invasion,migration and metastasis.The cytotoxic activities are involved multiple molecular targets and signalling pathways.A clinical trial using shikonin to treat patients with late-stage lung cancer has been presented.Some future perspectives and research needs are suggested.Sources of information are from Google Scholar,Pub Med,Science Direct,J-Stage,Pub Chem and CNKI.展开更多
Flavones are the most dominant type of flavonoids isolated from the roots of Scutellaria baicalensis(Radix Scutellariae), which is a traditional medicinal plant in East Asian countries, including China, Japan and Kore...Flavones are the most dominant type of flavonoids isolated from the roots of Scutellaria baicalensis(Radix Scutellariae), which is a traditional medicinal plant in East Asian countries, including China, Japan and Korea.Most of the flavones are derivatives with methoxyl and hydroxyl groups, and they include baicalein, baicalin, chrysin, norwogonin, oroxylin A and wogonin.Baicalein possesses anti-cancer activities against a wide spectrum of human cancer cells by inducing apoptosis and cell cycle arrest, and by inhibiting angiogenesis, metastasis and inflammation.Some examples of the effects of baicalein on apoptosis, cell cycle arrest and metastasis are presented with discussion on the molecular targets and pathways.Studies on the structure-activity relationships of flavonoid cytotoxicity towards human cancer cells show that the potent cytotoxic activities of baicalein can be attributed to its-OH groupsat C5, C6 and C7(triple hydroxylation) of ring A, carbonyl group at C4 of ring C, and C2–C3 double bond of ring C.Studies on structural modifications of baicalein have shown that the configurations at C6 of ring A are critical factors influencing its anti-proliferative activity.Considering the remarkable anti-cancer properties, the future prospects for developing baicalein into an anti-cancer drug are promising.展开更多
In this short review, the current knowledge on the chemical constituents and anticancer properties of Cerbera odollam and Cerbera manghas is updated with some description of their botany and uses. Although these two c...In this short review, the current knowledge on the chemical constituents and anticancer properties of Cerbera odollam and Cerbera manghas is updated with some description of their botany and uses. Although these two closely-related coastal tree species have overlapping geographical distribution, they can be distinguished by the eye colour of flowers and the shape of fruits. Chemical constituents of C. odollam and C. manghas include lignans, iridoids, terpenoids, cardiac glycosides(cardenolides), flavonoids, phenolic acids and steroids. Cardiac glycosides of cerberin, dehydrocerberin, neriifolin, tanghinin, deacetyltanghinin and tanghinigenin possess promising anticancer properties with apoptotic activities. However, these cardiac glycosides are also cardiotoxic. Fatal cases of suicides by ingesting Cerbera fruits or seeds have been reported in India and Sri Lanka. In two suicide cases, one in Taiwan and another in the United States, the patients recovered completely. In New Caledonia, four death-threatening cases of poisoning(two were fatal) occurred through consuming toxic coconut crabs. Taken together, both C. odollam and C. manghas are endowed with cardiac glycosides, which have useful pharmacological properties but lethal toxicity.展开更多
As a dark tea,Pu-erh tea(PET)is produced from sun-dried leaves of Camellia sinensis var.assamica mainly in Yunnan Province of China.Many microorganisms are involved in the fermentation of PET.Among them,Aspergillus ni...As a dark tea,Pu-erh tea(PET)is produced from sun-dried leaves of Camellia sinensis var.assamica mainly in Yunnan Province of China.Many microorganisms are involved in the fermentation of PET.Among them,Aspergillus niger is most important.It is believed that the longer the preservation period,the better is the quality and taste of PET,which is commercially available as loose,compressed or instant tea leaves.Chemical components of PET include flavones,flavanols,flavonols,phenolic acids,alkaloids and methylxanthines.In this overview,the lipid-lowering and anti-obesity effects of PET were discussed based on animal models and human trials,and our study provided some insights into possible mechanisms of bioactive compounds,such as theabrownin,catechins,lovastatin and gallic acid.Other bioactivities of PET and some information on Fuzhuan brick tea were also included.Sources of information cited were from Google Scholar,Pub Med,Pub Med Central,Science Direct,J-Stage,Pub Chem,Directory of Open Access Journals(DOAJ),and China National Knowledge Infrastructure(CNKI).展开更多
The fruit peel of Citrus species(Chenpi),particularly those of mandarin oranges,is a useful source of food and medicine in China.Flavonoids from the citrus fruit peel are mainly polymethoxyflavones(PMFs),of which nobi...The fruit peel of Citrus species(Chenpi),particularly those of mandarin oranges,is a useful source of food and medicine in China.Flavonoids from the citrus fruit peel are mainly polymethoxyflavones(PMFs),of which nobiletin and tangeretin are the most abundant components.In the present review,we summarized the cytotoxic activities of these two PMFs to breast cancer cells.Studies have reported that these two compounds inhibit the growth of breast cancer cells by inducing apoptosis,cytostatic cell death and cell cycle arrest,or by inhibiting cell proliferation,metastasis and tumour angiogenesis,depending on the molecular subtypes of breast cancer.In vitro and in vivo cytotoxic activities involve different molecular targets and signalling pathways.Analyses on the structure-activity relationship(SAR)of nobiletin and tangeretin have shown that the presence of a methoxy group at C8 and a hydroxyl group at C3 or C5 are essential for anti-proliferative activity.Some future perspectives and research needs are suggested.Sources of information are from Pub Med,Pub Med Central,Science Direct,Google Scholar,J-Stage,Pub Chem and CNKI using keyword search.展开更多
Genipin and geniposide are iridoids from the fruits of Gardenia jasminoides.Both compounds have a methyl acetate(-COOCH_(3))group at C4 and a hydroxyl(-OH)group at C10.As an iridoid glucoside with a glucose moiety at ...Genipin and geniposide are iridoids from the fruits of Gardenia jasminoides.Both compounds have a methyl acetate(-COOCH_(3))group at C4 and a hydroxyl(-OH)group at C10.As an iridoid glucoside with a glucose moiety at C1,geniposide is also known as genipin-1-O-β-D-glucoside.Without the glucose moiety,genipin is an iridoid and the aglycone of geniposide.The-OH group at C1 of genipin is responsible for its cytotoxic effects.Geniposide without the-OH group at C1 lacks the cytotoxic effects.There are more publications on the anti-cancer properties of genipin than geniposide.Studies have reported the potentiation of genipin when used in combination with anti-cancer drugs.The anti-cancer properties of geniposide have been investigated using human intestinal microflora that hydrolyzes geniposide to genipin.Both genipin and geniposide exert antiproliferative and apoptotic activities via different molecular targets and pathways.Other pharmacological properties of genipin and geniposide include antidepressant,antidiabetic,anti-inflammatory,anti-obesity,anti-thrombotic,hepatoprotective,and neuroprotective activities.Future research on genipin and geniposide is suggested.展开更多
In the present review,we updated current information on the chemistry,contents,and anticancer properties of matrine(MT),oxymatrine(OMT),and compound Kushen injection(CKI).The anticancer properties were focused on lung...In the present review,we updated current information on the chemistry,contents,and anticancer properties of matrine(MT),oxymatrine(OMT),and compound Kushen injection(CKI).The anticancer properties were focused on lung,breast,and liver cancer cells because they are most susceptible.Sources of information were from Google,Google Scholar,PubMed,PubMed Central,Science Direct,PubChem,J-Stage,Directory of Open Access Journals(DOAJ),and China National Knowledge Infrastructure(CNKI).Reference was also made on botanical websites,such as Flora of China and World Flora Online.MT and OMT are dominant quinolizidine alkaloids from the roots of Sophora flavescens(Kushen)of the family Fabaceae.Against lung,breast,and liver cancer cells,MT and OMT inhibit cell proliferation;induce cell cycle arrest,apoptosis,and autophagy;restrict angiogenesis;and inhibit cell metastasis,invasion,and migration.The processes involve various molecular targets and signaling pathways.CKI is a traditional Chinese medicine(TCM)composed of root extracts of S.flavescens and Smilax glabra(Baituling)of the family Smilacaceae.With MT and OMT as major components,CKI has been approved for the treatment of cancer in China more than 20 years ago.In recent years,systematic reviews and meta-analysis have been undertaken to evaluate the anticancer effects of CKI.When CKI is used alone and in combination with chemotherapy of western medicine,there is much to be learned concerning their interactions besides their individual and integrated efficacy.Some perspectives of MT,OMT,and CKI are discussed,and their suggestions for future research are provided.展开更多
文摘In this overview,the current knowledge of the constituents of flavonoids isolated from the roots of Sophora flavescens(kushen)is updated.Flavonoids consist of several classes,such as flavanones,flavonols,chalcones,isoflavones,biflavonoids,flavanols,and flavones.The most common compounds are kurarinone(KRN),sophoraflavanone G(SFG),2′-methoxykurarinone,kuraridine,isoxanthohumol,and formononetin.KRN and SFG are two major flavanones with more vital anticancer properties than other flavonoids.From the literature,the cytotoxic values of KRN and SFG are variable and depend on the type of cancer cells tested.The anticancer activities of these two flavonoids involve different molecular mechanisms.Clinical trials are needed before anticancer drugs from KRN and SFG can be developed.
基金funding from UCSI University (Proj-In-FAS-049 Proj-In-FAS-052)+1 种基金the Ministry of Higher Education (MOHE),Malaysia (FRGS/2/2014/SG01/UCSI/02/2 FRGS/1/2018/TK10/UCSI/02/1) for supporting our research group
文摘Ursolic acid(UA) is a pentacyclic triterpene of the ursane type. As a common chemical constituent among species of the family Lamiaceae, UA possesses a broad spectrum of pharmacological properties. This overview focuses on the anticancer properties of UA against breast cancer(BC) and colorectal cancer(CRC)that are most common among women and men, respectively. In vitro studies have shown that UA inhibited the growth of BC and CRC cell lines through various molecular targets and signaling pathways.There are several in vivo studies on the cytotoxic activity of UA against BC and CRC. UA also inhibits the growth of other types of cancer. Studies on structural modifications of UA have shown that the –OH groups at C3 and at C28 are critical factors influencing the cytotoxic activity of UA and its derivatives.Some needs for future research are suggested. Sources of information were from ScienceDirect, Google Scholar and PubMed.
文摘Flavonoids are by far the most dominant class of phenolic compounds isolated from Morus alba leaves(MAL). Other classes of compounds are benzofurans, phenolic acids, alkaloids, coumarins, chalcones and stilbenes. Major flavonoids are kuwanons, moracinflavans, moragrols and morkotins. Other major compounds include moracins(benzofurans), caffeoylquinic acids(phenolic acids) and morachalcones(chalcones). Research on the anticancer properties of MAL entailed in vitro and in vivo cytotoxicity of extracts or isolated compounds. Flavonoids, benzofurans, chalcones and alkaloids are classes of compounds from MAL that have been found to be cytotoxic towards human cancer cell lines. Further studies on the phytochemistry and anticancer of MAL are suggested. Sources of information were Pub Med,Pub Med Central, Science Direct, Google, Google Scholar, J-Stage, Pub Chem and China National Knowledge Infrastructure.
文摘This short review provides an update of the anticancer and anti-inflammatory properties of casticin from Vitex species. Casticin is a polymethylflavone with three rings, an orthocatechol moiety, a double bond,two hydroxyl groups and four methoxyl groups. Casticin has been isolated from various tissues of plants in the Vitex genus: fruits and leaves of V. trifolia, aerial parts and seeds of V. agnus-castus and leaves of V.negundo. Studies have reported the antiproliferative and apoptotic activities of casticin from Vitex species.The compound is effective against many cancer cell lines via different molecular mechanisms. Studies have also affirmed the anti-inflammatory properties of casticin, with several molecular mechanisms identified. Other pharmacological properties include anti-asthmatic, tracheospasmolytic, analgesic, antihyperprolactinemia, immunomodulatory, opioidergic, oestrogenic, anti-angiogenic, antiglioma, lung injury protection, rheumatoid arthritis amelioration and liver fibrosis attenuation activities. Clinical trials and commercial use of the casticin-rich fruit extract of V. agnus-castus among women with premenstrual syndrome were briefly discussed.
文摘The root bark of Morus alba L. or white mulberry is widely used as traditional medicine in China, Japan and Korea. Major classes and types of phenolic compounds isolated from the root bark are flavonoids(kuwanons, morusin, cyclomorusin and sanggenons), benzofurans(moracins and mulberrofurans), and stilbenoids(mulberrosides). Some of the flavonoids and benzofurans are products of Diel-Alder type adducts. Other classes of compounds include triterpenes, phenolic acids and coumarins. Morusin, a prenylated flavonoid, was first isolated from the root bark of M. alba, and later from the leaf, stem bark and twig of the plant. The potent anti-cancer properties of morusin have attracted much attention with research on-going and new findings being published. The compound inhibits angiogenesis, tumour progression and tumour migration, and triggers apoptosis, cell cycle arrest and autophagy in colorectal, cervical, prostate, breast, hepatoma, pancreatic, glioblastoma, gastric, ovarian and lung cancer cell lines. The anti-cancer activities of morusin are executed via various molecular targets and signalling pathways. It is anticipated that on-going in vitro studies will progress gradually to in vivo studies using animal models before efforts towards drug development can be initiated for clinical trials.
文摘In this review, the phytochemistry and pharmacology of two ornamental gingers, Hedychium coronarium(butterfl y ginger) and Alpinia purpurata(red ginger), are updated, and their botany and uses are described. Flowers of H. coronarium are large, showy, white, yellow or white with a yellow centre and highly fragrant. Infl orescences of A. purpurata are erect spikes with attractive red or pink bracts. Phytochemical investigations on the rhizomes of H. coronarium generated research interest globally. This resulted in the isolation of 53 labdane-type diterpenes, with little work done on the leaves and fl owers. Pharmacological properties of H. coronarium included antioxidant, antibacterial, antifungal, cytotoxic, chemopreventive, anti-allergic, larvicidal, anthelminthic, analgesic, anti-infl ammatory, anti-urolithiatic, anti-angiogenic, neuropharmacological, fi brinogenolytic, coagulant and hepatoprotective activities. On the contrary, little is known on the phytochemistry of A. purpurata with pharmacological properties of antioxidant, antibacterial, larvicidal, cytotoxic and vasodilator activities reported in the leaves and rhizomes. There is much disparity in terms of research effort within and between these two ornamental gingers.
文摘In this review, the botany and uses of Alpinia zerumbet(yan shan jiang) are described, and the current knowledge of its phytochemistry, pharmacological properties, and clinical trials is summarized. An important ginger crop in East Asia, A. zerumbet has many uses, both medicinal and non-medicinal. Leaves are used to produce essential oils and herbal teas. Rhizomes are consumed as spices, and stem fibers are made into paper, fabrics, and handicrafts. In Brazil, tea from A. zerumbet leaves is believed to have hypotensive, diuretic, and anti-ulcerogenic properties. This species possesses many medicinal properties due to its chemical constituents, including flavonoids, phenolic acids, phenylpropanoids, kava pyrones, sterols, and terpenoids. Extracts of A. zerumbet display antioxidant, antimicrobial, insecticidal, anthelmintic, tyrosinase and melanogenesis inhibitory, anti-atherogenic, anti-aging, anti-glycation, integrase and neuraminidase inhibitory, lifespan prolongation, hair growth promotion, anticancer, antidepressant, anxiolytic, anti-obesity, analgesic, anti-inflammatory, hypolipidemic, anti-ulcerogenic, anti-platelet, osteoblastic, osteogenic, thrombolytic, and cardiac arrhythmogenic activities. Essential oils of A. zerumbet leaves have antimicrobial, larvicidal, antinociceptive, hypotensive, vasorelaxant, myorelaxant, antispasmodic, antidepressant, anxiolytic, anti-neuraminidase, anti-atherogenic, anti-aging, anti-melanogenic, anti-tyrosinase, cytoprotective, cardiodepressive, antipsychotic, analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and tissue healing activities. Clinical trials conducted in Brazil showed that extracts of A. zerumbet have hypotensive and diuretic effects whereas topical application of the essential oil has positive therapeutic effects on patients with fibromyalgia. Spanning two continents of Asia and South America, A. zerumbet is truly a multi-purpose ginger plant with promising medicinal properties.
文摘Tetrandrine(TET) and fangchinoline(FAN) are dominant bisbenzylisoquinoline(BBIQ) alkaloids from the roots of Stephania tetrandra of the family Menispermaceae. BBIQ alkaloids comprise two benzylisoquinoline units linked by oxygen bridges. The molecular structures of TET and FAN are exactly the same, except that TET has a methoxy(-OCH3) group, while FAN has a hydroxyl(-OH) group at C7. In this overview,the current knowledge on the chemistry, pharmacology and anticancer properties of TET and FAN have been updated. The focus is on colon and breast cancer cells, because they are most susceptible to TET and FAN, respectively. Against colon cancer cells, TET inhibits cell proliferation and tumor growth by inducing apoptosis and G1 cell cycle arrest, and suppresses adhesion, migration and invasion of cells.Against breast cancer cells, FAN inhibits cell proliferation by inducing apoptosis, G1-phase cell cycle arrest and inhibits cell migration. The processes involve various molecular mechanisms and signaling pathways. Some insights on the ability of TET and FAN to reverse multi-drug resistance in cancer cells and suggestions for future research are provided.
文摘Apocynaceae is a large family of tropical trees, shrubs and vines with most species producing white latex. Major metabolites of species are triterpenoids, iridoids, alkaloids and cardenolides, which are known for a wide range of biological and pharmacological activities such as cardioprotective, hepatoprotective, neuroprotective, anti-inflammatory, anticancer and antimalarial properties. Prompted by their anticancer and antimalarial properties, the current knowledge on ten genera(Allamanda, Alstonia, Calotropis, Catharanthus, Cerbera, Dyera, Kopsia, Nerium, Plumeria and Vallaris) is updated. Major classes of metabolites are described using some species as examples. Species with antiproliferative(APF) and/or antiplasmodial(APM) properties have been identified. With the exception of the genus Dyera, nine genera of 22 species possess APF activity. Seven genera(Alstonia, Calotropis, Catharanthus, Dyera, Kopsia, Plumeria and Vallaris) of 13 species have APM properties. Among these species, Alstonia angustiloba, Alstonia macrophylla, Calotropis gigantea, Calotropis procera, Catharanthus roseus, Plumeria alba and Vallaris glabra displayed both APF and APM properties. The chemical constituents of these seven species are compiled for assessment and further research.
文摘Emodin and shikonin are quinones that are commonly found in the roots of plant species of the families Polygonaceae and Boraginceae,respectively.They have a wide spectrum of bioactivities,including anti-cancer properties.This overview on the cytotoxic properties of emodin and shikonin is focused on lung cancer,the leading cause of cancer death in the world.In emodin,the-OH groups at C1 and C3 positions,while in shikonin,the-OH groups of the naphthazarin moiety and chiral side-chain,are important for their anti-tumour functions.Studies have shown that emodin and shikonin inhibit the growth of lung cancer cells by inducing apoptosis,autophagy,necrosis and early senescence,and by inhibiting proliferation,invasion,migration and metastasis.The cytotoxic activities are involved multiple molecular targets and signalling pathways.A clinical trial using shikonin to treat patients with late-stage lung cancer has been presented.Some future perspectives and research needs are suggested.Sources of information are from Google Scholar,Pub Med,Science Direct,J-Stage,Pub Chem and CNKI.
文摘Flavones are the most dominant type of flavonoids isolated from the roots of Scutellaria baicalensis(Radix Scutellariae), which is a traditional medicinal plant in East Asian countries, including China, Japan and Korea.Most of the flavones are derivatives with methoxyl and hydroxyl groups, and they include baicalein, baicalin, chrysin, norwogonin, oroxylin A and wogonin.Baicalein possesses anti-cancer activities against a wide spectrum of human cancer cells by inducing apoptosis and cell cycle arrest, and by inhibiting angiogenesis, metastasis and inflammation.Some examples of the effects of baicalein on apoptosis, cell cycle arrest and metastasis are presented with discussion on the molecular targets and pathways.Studies on the structure-activity relationships of flavonoid cytotoxicity towards human cancer cells show that the potent cytotoxic activities of baicalein can be attributed to its-OH groupsat C5, C6 and C7(triple hydroxylation) of ring A, carbonyl group at C4 of ring C, and C2–C3 double bond of ring C.Studies on structural modifications of baicalein have shown that the configurations at C6 of ring A are critical factors influencing its anti-proliferative activity.Considering the remarkable anti-cancer properties, the future prospects for developing baicalein into an anti-cancer drug are promising.
文摘In this short review, the current knowledge on the chemical constituents and anticancer properties of Cerbera odollam and Cerbera manghas is updated with some description of their botany and uses. Although these two closely-related coastal tree species have overlapping geographical distribution, they can be distinguished by the eye colour of flowers and the shape of fruits. Chemical constituents of C. odollam and C. manghas include lignans, iridoids, terpenoids, cardiac glycosides(cardenolides), flavonoids, phenolic acids and steroids. Cardiac glycosides of cerberin, dehydrocerberin, neriifolin, tanghinin, deacetyltanghinin and tanghinigenin possess promising anticancer properties with apoptotic activities. However, these cardiac glycosides are also cardiotoxic. Fatal cases of suicides by ingesting Cerbera fruits or seeds have been reported in India and Sri Lanka. In two suicide cases, one in Taiwan and another in the United States, the patients recovered completely. In New Caledonia, four death-threatening cases of poisoning(two were fatal) occurred through consuming toxic coconut crabs. Taken together, both C. odollam and C. manghas are endowed with cardiac glycosides, which have useful pharmacological properties but lethal toxicity.
文摘As a dark tea,Pu-erh tea(PET)is produced from sun-dried leaves of Camellia sinensis var.assamica mainly in Yunnan Province of China.Many microorganisms are involved in the fermentation of PET.Among them,Aspergillus niger is most important.It is believed that the longer the preservation period,the better is the quality and taste of PET,which is commercially available as loose,compressed or instant tea leaves.Chemical components of PET include flavones,flavanols,flavonols,phenolic acids,alkaloids and methylxanthines.In this overview,the lipid-lowering and anti-obesity effects of PET were discussed based on animal models and human trials,and our study provided some insights into possible mechanisms of bioactive compounds,such as theabrownin,catechins,lovastatin and gallic acid.Other bioactivities of PET and some information on Fuzhuan brick tea were also included.Sources of information cited were from Google Scholar,Pub Med,Pub Med Central,Science Direct,J-Stage,Pub Chem,Directory of Open Access Journals(DOAJ),and China National Knowledge Infrastructure(CNKI).
文摘The fruit peel of Citrus species(Chenpi),particularly those of mandarin oranges,is a useful source of food and medicine in China.Flavonoids from the citrus fruit peel are mainly polymethoxyflavones(PMFs),of which nobiletin and tangeretin are the most abundant components.In the present review,we summarized the cytotoxic activities of these two PMFs to breast cancer cells.Studies have reported that these two compounds inhibit the growth of breast cancer cells by inducing apoptosis,cytostatic cell death and cell cycle arrest,or by inhibiting cell proliferation,metastasis and tumour angiogenesis,depending on the molecular subtypes of breast cancer.In vitro and in vivo cytotoxic activities involve different molecular targets and signalling pathways.Analyses on the structure-activity relationship(SAR)of nobiletin and tangeretin have shown that the presence of a methoxy group at C8 and a hydroxyl group at C3 or C5 are essential for anti-proliferative activity.Some future perspectives and research needs are suggested.Sources of information are from Pub Med,Pub Med Central,Science Direct,Google Scholar,J-Stage,Pub Chem and CNKI using keyword search.
文摘Genipin and geniposide are iridoids from the fruits of Gardenia jasminoides.Both compounds have a methyl acetate(-COOCH_(3))group at C4 and a hydroxyl(-OH)group at C10.As an iridoid glucoside with a glucose moiety at C1,geniposide is also known as genipin-1-O-β-D-glucoside.Without the glucose moiety,genipin is an iridoid and the aglycone of geniposide.The-OH group at C1 of genipin is responsible for its cytotoxic effects.Geniposide without the-OH group at C1 lacks the cytotoxic effects.There are more publications on the anti-cancer properties of genipin than geniposide.Studies have reported the potentiation of genipin when used in combination with anti-cancer drugs.The anti-cancer properties of geniposide have been investigated using human intestinal microflora that hydrolyzes geniposide to genipin.Both genipin and geniposide exert antiproliferative and apoptotic activities via different molecular targets and pathways.Other pharmacological properties of genipin and geniposide include antidepressant,antidiabetic,anti-inflammatory,anti-obesity,anti-thrombotic,hepatoprotective,and neuroprotective activities.Future research on genipin and geniposide is suggested.
文摘In the present review,we updated current information on the chemistry,contents,and anticancer properties of matrine(MT),oxymatrine(OMT),and compound Kushen injection(CKI).The anticancer properties were focused on lung,breast,and liver cancer cells because they are most susceptible.Sources of information were from Google,Google Scholar,PubMed,PubMed Central,Science Direct,PubChem,J-Stage,Directory of Open Access Journals(DOAJ),and China National Knowledge Infrastructure(CNKI).Reference was also made on botanical websites,such as Flora of China and World Flora Online.MT and OMT are dominant quinolizidine alkaloids from the roots of Sophora flavescens(Kushen)of the family Fabaceae.Against lung,breast,and liver cancer cells,MT and OMT inhibit cell proliferation;induce cell cycle arrest,apoptosis,and autophagy;restrict angiogenesis;and inhibit cell metastasis,invasion,and migration.The processes involve various molecular targets and signaling pathways.CKI is a traditional Chinese medicine(TCM)composed of root extracts of S.flavescens and Smilax glabra(Baituling)of the family Smilacaceae.With MT and OMT as major components,CKI has been approved for the treatment of cancer in China more than 20 years ago.In recent years,systematic reviews and meta-analysis have been undertaken to evaluate the anticancer effects of CKI.When CKI is used alone and in combination with chemotherapy of western medicine,there is much to be learned concerning their interactions besides their individual and integrated efficacy.Some perspectives of MT,OMT,and CKI are discussed,and their suggestions for future research are provided.
