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1.
Nutrients ; 16(9)2024 Apr 25.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38732523

ABSTRACT

The presence of vitamin D3 deficiency associated with the presence of metabolic syndrome (MS) has important public health effects. This study aims to investigate the relationship between vitamin D3 deficiency, MS and vitamin D3 receptor (VDR), GC Vitamin D binding protein (GC), and cytochrome P450 family 2 subfamily R member 1 (CYP2R1) gene polymorphisms, and genes whose encoded proteins are responsible for vitamin D3 metabolism and transport. A total of 58 participants were included in this study (age 39 ± 12 years) and were selected over a 12-month period. They were divided into four groups, depending on the presence of polymorphisms in VDR, GC, and CYP2R1 genes and their weight status. At baseline, in months 3, 6, and 12, biochemical parameters including 25(OH)D3, total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, HDL cholesterol, triglycerides, and homeostatic model assessment (HOMA index), the insulin resistance indicator were measured. Our results show that all subjects in the polymorphism group supplemented with vitamin D3 reached an optimal level of vitamin D3 associated with high concentrations of 25(OH)D3. Weight loss was most significant in patients in the POW group (overweight patients).


Subject(s)
Cholecalciferol , Cholestanetriol 26-Monooxygenase , Metabolic Syndrome , Receptors, Calcitriol , Vitamin D Deficiency , Vitamin D-Binding Protein , Adult , Female , Humans , Male , Middle Aged , Cholecalciferol/blood , Cholestanetriol 26-Monooxygenase/genetics , Cytochrome P450 Family 2/genetics , Insulin Resistance/genetics , Metabolic Syndrome/genetics , Polymorphism, Genetic , Receptors, Calcitriol/genetics , Vitamin D Deficiency/genetics , Vitamin D Deficiency/blood , Vitamin D-Binding Protein/genetics
2.
Int J Mol Sci ; 25(5)2024 Mar 04.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38474211

ABSTRACT

The incidence and prevalence of cardiovascular diseases are still rising. The principal mechanism that drives them is atherosclerosis, an affection given by dyslipidemia and a pro-inflammatory state. Paraoxonase enzymes have a protective role due to their ability to contribute to antioxidant and anti-inflammatory pathways, especially paraoxonase 1 (PON1). PON1 binds with HDL (high-density lipoprotein), and high serum levels lead to a protective state against dyslipidemia, cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, stroke, nonalcoholic fatty liver disease, and many others. Modulating PON1 expression might be a treatment objective with significant results in limiting the prevalence of atherosclerosis. Lifestyle including diet and exercise can raise its levels, and some beneficial plants have been found to influence PON1 levels; therefore, more studies on herbal components are needed. Our purpose is to highlight the principal roles of Praoxonase 1, its implications in dyslipidemia, cardiovascular diseases, stroke, and other diseases, and to emphasize plants that can modulate PON1 expression, targeting the potential of some flavonoids that could be introduced as supplements in our diet and to validate the hypothesis that flavonoids have any effects regarding PON1 function.


Subject(s)
Atherosclerosis , Cardiovascular Diseases , Dyslipidemias , Stroke , Humans , Polyphenols , Aryldialkylphosphatase/metabolism , Flavonoids
3.
Healthcare (Basel) ; 11(19)2023 Oct 06.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-37830722

ABSTRACT

Cross-sectional studies, while not considered glamorous endeavors, are firmly anchored in data and statistics, providing essential insights about public health. The aim of the study is to see the frequency of hepatoprotective (HP) nutritional supplement consumption among patients with chronic diseases (other than chronic liver disorders) and analyzes the habits related to the consumption of nutritional supplements among these patients. A total of 954 patients, seeking medical prescriptions for chronic diseases under various payment arrangements (compensated, gratuity, or full payment) were carefully selected over a 12-month period from four private pharmaceutical facilities. We examined the frequency of HP consumption in relation with a number of prescribed medications for chronic conditions. All these patients were invited to complete a questionnaire about their supplement consumption habits and were provided the option to participate in a nutritional status assessment. One hundred ninety-five patients consented to participate in the survey, and 65 patients agreed to undergo a nutritional status evaluation. Of the 954 patients, 77.2% incorporate HP into their regimen. The most frequent consumption (83.33%) was recorded in a group with seven drugs, followed by a group with three drugs (82.84%). Women have a higher usage rate of HP (80.58%; 444 from 551) compared to men (62.60%; 293 from 383), and most of the patients (59.5%) used extracts of Silybum marianum L. In the survey, 64.61% of participants were using supplements, with most (59.52%) consuming HP. Only 32.54% of patients rely on recommendations from healthcare professionals. Of the patients who use supplements, 55.56% reported improvements in their health status. Furthermore, patients who integrate supplements into their daily routine tend to achieve better overall nutritional status.

4.
Plants (Basel) ; 12(10)2023 May 22.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-37653972

ABSTRACT

Bone metabolism is a complex process which is influenced by the activity of bone cells (e.g., osteocytes, osteoblasts, osteoclasts); the effect of some specific biomarkers (e.g., parathyroid hormone, vitamin D, alkaline phosphatase, osteocalcin, osteopontin, osteoprotegerin, osterix, RANKL, Runx2); and the characteristic signaling pathways (e.g., RANKL/RANK, Wnt/ß, Notch, BMP, SMAD). Some phytochemical compounds-such as flavonoids, tannins, polyphenols, anthocyanins, terpenoids, polysaccharides, alkaloids and others-presented a beneficial and stimulating effect in the bone regeneration process due to the pro-estrogenic activity, the antioxidant and the anti-inflammatory effect and modulation of bone signaling pathways. Lately, nanomedicine has emerged as an innovative concept for new treatments in bone-related pathologies envisaged through the incorporation of medicinal substances in nanometric systems for oral or local administration, as well as in nanostructured scaffolds with huge potential in bone tissue engineering.

5.
Molecules ; 28(15)2023 Jul 28.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-37570681

ABSTRACT

This study aimed at the relationship between antioxidant capacity, antimicrobial activity, and in vitro evaluation of the wound healing effect of the extract obtained from Echinaceae purpureae folium (EPF). This study's objective was to assess the bioactive components (total phenol and flavonoid content) and antioxidant activity of EPF extracts using the DPPH test method. The antioxidant capacity and the quantities of the compounds with antioxidant capacity were evaluated by spectrophotometric methods. Antimicrobial activity has been investigated against various pathogenic microorganisms. The minimum inhibitory concentration was determined by the microdilution method. Additionally, our work used a scratch test to examine the in vitro wound healing effects of EPF extract on NHDF cells. Statistical analysis was used to quantify the rate of migration and proliferation of fibroblast cells within the wound. Microscope pictures of fibroblast cells exposed to various EPF extract dosages were processed to estimate the width of the wound, area of the wound, and cell density inside the wound. The study proved that there was a relationship between the antioxidant, antimicrobial, and wound healing ability of EPF extracts.


Subject(s)
Anti-Infective Agents , Echinacea , Antioxidants/pharmacology , Antioxidants/analysis , Echinacea/chemistry , Wound Healing , Plant Extracts/chemistry , Anti-Infective Agents/pharmacology , Anti-Infective Agents/analysis , Plant Leaves/chemistry
6.
Molecules ; 28(10)2023 May 10.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-37241746

ABSTRACT

Taraxaci folium and Matricariae flos plant extracts contain a wide range of bioactive compounds with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. The aim of the study was to evaluate the phytochemical and antioxidant profile of the two plant extracts to obtain a mucoadhesive polymeric film with beneficial properties in acute gingivitis. The chemical composition of the two plant extracts was determined by high-performance liquid chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry. To establish a favourable ratio in the combination of the two extracts, the antioxidant capacity was determined by the method of reduction of copper ions Cu2+ from neocuprein and by reduction of the compound 1.1-diphenyl-2-2picril-hydrazyl. Following preliminary analysis, we selected the plant mixture Taraxaci folium/matricariae flos in the ratio of 1:2 (m/m), having an antioxidant capacity of 83.92% ± 0.02 reduction of free nitrogen radical of 1.1-diphenyl-2-2picril-hydrazyl reagent. Subsequently, bioadhesive films of 0.2 mm thickness were obtained using various concentrations of polymer and plant extract. The mucoadhesive films obtained were homogeneous and flexible, with pH ranging from 6.634 to 7.016 and active ingredient release capacity ranging from 85.94-89.52%. Based on in vitro analysis, the film containing 5% polymer and 10% plant extract was selected for in vivo study. The study involved 50 patients undergoing professional oral hygiene followed by a 7-day treatment with the chosen mucoadhesive polymeric film. The study showed that the film used helped accelerate the healing of acute gingivitis after treatment, with anti-inflammatory and protective action.


Subject(s)
Antioxidants , Gingivitis , Humans , Antioxidants/chemistry , Plant Extracts/pharmacology , Plant Extracts/chemistry , Anti-Inflammatory Agents/pharmacology , Anti-Inflammatory Agents/chemistry
7.
J Pers Med ; 13(3)2023 Feb 23.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-36983573

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: SARS-CoV-2 viral infection is a current and important topic for patients with comorbidities of type 2 diabetes and obesity, associated with increased risk of mortality and morbidity. This study aims to analyze, compare and describe admission parameters in patients with type 2 diabetes, obesity, and SARS-CoV-2 infection based on whether they received insulin therapy before hospital admission. METHODS: Our study enrolled patients diagnosed with type 2 diabetes, obesity, and SARS-CoV-2 viral infection, 81 patients without insulin treatment before hospital admission, and 81 patients with insulin at "Gavril Curteanu" Municipal Clinical Hospital of Oradea, Romania, between August 2020 and March 2022. RT-PCR/rapid antigen tests were used for detecting SARS-CoV-2 viral infection. RESULTS: The severe form of COVID-19 was found in 66% of all patients (65% in the group without insulin and 67% in the group with insulin). Oxygen saturation at the time of hospital admission was greater or equal to 90% in 62% of all patients. The most associated comorbidities we founded in this study were: hypertension in 75% of all patients (grade two hypertension 63% in the group without insulin and 64% in the group with insulin), ischemic heart disease in 35% of patients (25% in the group without insulin and 44% in the group with insulin, n = 0.008), heart failure in 9.3% of all patients (8.6% in the group without insulin and 10% in the group with insulin). CRP and procalcitonin are increased in both groups at hospital admission, with a slightly higher trend in the group with insulin therapy before hospital admission. We found that 56% of patients in the group with insulin treatment were with uncontrolled diabetes on admission. Only 10% of patients required a change in antidiabetic treatment with insulin therapy at discharge. In our study, 89% of all patients did not require short-term home oxygen therapy at discharge. CONCLUSIONS: Antidiabetic therapy taken before hospital admission did not protect patients against cytokine storm in COVID-19, but is very important in the pathophysiological stage of comorbidities. Paraclinical parameters at hospitalization showed differences in correlation with oral antidiabetic treatment like metformin or insulin therapy. Changing the antidiabetic treatment for a small percentage of patients in the group who had not been receiving insulin therapy before discharge was necessary. It is necessary for future studies to see all changes involved in antidiabetic treatment in patients with diabetes type 2 and obesity after SARS-CoV2 viral infection and its long-term evolution.

8.
J Pers Med ; 13(3)2023 Feb 23.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-36983577

ABSTRACT

(1) Background: Intrauterine insemination (IUI) is considered a first-line procedure for infertile or hypo-fertile couples among assisted reproductive techniques. In our retrospective study, we identified variables associated with a successful IUI and the probability of obtaining a pregnancy. This is useful to identify couples with a good chance of obtaining a pregnancy through an IUI procedure (2) Methods: The study was conducted at a university-level fertility clinic in Oradea, Romania. Patients eligible to participate in the study were infertile couples who underwent IUI treatment in the interval between January 2015 and October 2020. (3) Results: In our study, we found that duration of infertility, couple age, endometrium thickness, sperm concentration, and motility are important factors in determining the outcome of IUI. Several demographics were measured for each couple including maternal and paternal age, the type and duration of infertility, the number of procedures, the type of ovarian stimulation, number of follicles, endometrial thickness, the type and day of ovulation induction, associated pathology, tubal patency, and pre/post washes sperm count and progressive sperm motility. (4) Conclusions: Fertility prediction studies are necessary, and an individualized prognostic score should be applied for each couple for tailoring their expectations and better counseling.

9.
Biomed Pharmacother ; 158: 114207, 2023 Feb.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-36916432

ABSTRACT

Hepatic disorders are considered major health problems, due to their high incidence, increased risk of chronicling or death and the costs involved in therapies. A large number of patients with chronic liver diseases use herbal medicines and dietary supplements in parallel with allopathic treatment. The current review provides a thorough analysis of the studies conducted on the most important species of medicinal plants used in this disease, bioactive compounds and on the activity of herbal medicines in the evolution of chronic liver diseases. However, a negative aspect is that there is frequently a lack of comprehensive data on the progression of the illness and the living standards of patients who are affected when evaluating the effects of these phytocomponents on the evolution of chronic liver disease, the patients' health, and their quality of life. It is essential to take this impairment into account when evaluating the long-term effects of herbal treatments on the health of individuals who suffer from liver illness. Bioactive phytocomponents may be a suitable source for the development of novel medications due to the correlation between traditional uses and medical advances. Additional high-quality preclinical examinations utilizing cutting-edge approaches are needed to assess safety and effectiveness and to detect, categorize, and standardize the active substances and their formulations for the most suitable therapeutic management of liver illnesses.


Subject(s)
Liver Diseases , Plants, Medicinal , Humans , Quality of Life , Liver Diseases/drug therapy , Plant Extracts/therapeutic use
10.
Rev Physiol Biochem Pharmacol ; 184: 121-157, 2023.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-35266054

ABSTRACT

Chitosan is a natural polysaccharide widespread in nature. It has many unique and attractive properties for the pharmaceutical field: it is biodegradable, safe, hypoallergenic, biocompatible with the body, free of toxicity, with proven anticholesterolemic, antibacterial, and antimycotic action. In this review we highlighted the physical, chemical, mechanical, mucoadhesive, etc. properties of chitosan to be taken into account when obtaining various pharmaceutical forms. The methods by which the pharmaceutical forms based on chitosan are obtained are very extensive, and in this study only the most common ones were presented.


Subject(s)
Chitosan , Humans , Chitosan/chemistry , Pharmaceutical Preparations
11.
J Pers Med ; 14(1)2023 Dec 26.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38248733

ABSTRACT

Metabolic syndrome, as a medical condition, presents multifactorial complexity that is characterized by the resulting damage from genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors (presence or absence of physical activity, food choices). Thus, metabolic syndrome qualifies unequivocally as a medical condition in which there are, simultaneously, several independent metabolic risk factors, namely, abdominal obesity, high triglyceride level, low HDL cholesterol level, arterial hypertension, and high glycemic level. Although age, sex, socio-economic status, and the precise definition of metabolic syndrome all influence the prevalence and risk of developing the condition, clinical and epidemiological studies clearly show that central obesity, as measured by an increased abdominal circumference, is the main risk factor. Thus, due to the growing global incidence of obesity, there has been an increase in the incidence of metabolic syndrome. Starting with obesity, all other metabolic risk factors are influenced: for example, as a result of insulin resistance with hyperglycemia, diabetes is linked to an increased risk of cardiovascular disease due to increased abdominal circumference. Through this review, we aimed to highlight the latest research studies and dietary nutritional interventions useful in the prevention of this disease but also implementation strategies for primary prevention among the healthy population.

12.
BMC Womens Health ; 22(1): 529, 2022 12 17.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-36528581

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: Chronic Endometritis (CE) is a subtle pathology, likely infectious in most cases, with a negative impact on the female fertility, but often overlooked even among fertility specialists. The purpose of the study is to demonstrate the predominant infectious nature of CE and to find the best therapeutic option by comparing the results of oral antibiotic therapy versus intrauterine antibiotic infusion in patients with CE undergoing IVF procedures. The objective was to compare the cure rate of CE-defined as the percentage of patients without CE at the test of cure, between the two groups and, the hysteroscopic aspect with the positive CD 138 staining. METHODS: This was a prospective, case-control study that took place in a single university fertility clinic, in Oradea, Romania and included 57 patients with CE divided into 2 groups: orally administered antibiotics group who received a combination of antibiotics compared to intrauterine infusion group who received intrauterine infusion of antibiotic. Chronic Endometritis was diagnosed through hysteroscopy and immunohistochemistry for CD 138. Patients in both groups were tested for CE twice to evaluate the cure rate after oral combination antibiotic therapy versus intrauterine infusion of antibiotic. RESULTS: Out of 115 patients with endometrial biopsies 57 tested positive for CE, with a 49.6% chronic endometritis prevalence. Among the group that was administered oral antibiotics, 11 patients (45.83%) experienced CE resolution after triple antibiotic therapy. Of the intrauterine infusion group, 25 patients (89.29%) presented negative results (p 0.0020). The normal hysteroscopic aspect had a similar prevalence in the patients with immunohistochemical positive and negative CD 138. CONCLUSIONS: Our study demonstrated the effectiveness and superiority of intrauterine antibiotic infusion over the use of oral combination antibiotic therapy for CE cure. TRIAL REGISTRATION: ISRCTN17542620/14.09.2022.


Subject(s)
Endometritis , Pregnancy , Humans , Female , Endometritis/diagnosis , Prospective Studies , Case-Control Studies , Fertilization in Vitro , Endometrium/pathology , Hysteroscopy , Chronic Disease , Anti-Bacterial Agents/therapeutic use
13.
Plants (Basel) ; 11(24)2022 Dec 16.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-36559673

ABSTRACT

The most widespread Sanguisorba species are Sanguisorba officinalis L. and Sanguisorba minor Scop. which are also found in the Romanian flora and classified as medicinal plants because of hemostatic, antibacterial, antitumor, antioxidant and antiviral activities. This study aimed to characterize and compare Sanguisorba species in order to highlight which species is more valuable according to phenolic profile and antimicrobial activity. Based on high-performance liquid chromatography equipped with photodiode array detection and mass spectrometry (electrospray ionization) (HPLC-DAD-MS (ESI+)) analysis, it was evident that the ethanol extract obtained from the leaves of S. minor Scop. contains the highest content of phenolic compounds at 160.96 mg/g p.s., followed by the flower and root extract (131.56 mg/g dw and 121.36 mg/g dw, respectively). While in S. officinalis, the highest amount of phenols was recorded in the root extract (127.06 mg/g), followed by the flower and leaves extract (102.31 mg/g and 81.09 mg/g dw, respectively). Our results show that among the two species, S. minor Scop. is richer in phenolic compounds compared with the S. officinalis L. sample. In addition, the antimicrobial potential of each plant organ of Sanguisorba species was investigated. The ethanol extract of S. minor Scop. leaves exhibited better antibacterial activity against all of the bacteria tested, especially on Staphylococcus aureus, with an inhibition zone of 15.33 ± 0.83 mm. Due to the chemical composition and antimicrobial effect, the Sanguisorba species can be used as food supplements with beneficial effects on human health.

14.
Plants (Basel) ; 11(22)2022 Nov 09.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-36432750

ABSTRACT

Viscum album L. subsp. album is a hemiparasitic plant that is recognized as a medicinal plant due to its beneficial effects, including anti-tumor activity, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-hepatotoxic, hypoglycemic, and antimicrobial properties as well as for lowering blood pressure. On the other hand, mistletoe is a biotic stressor for both deciduous trees and conifers. Our main aim was to evidence the influence of mistletoe on the content of chlorophylls, proline, total phenols, flavonoids, and antioxidant capacity of leaves from tree host trees (Malus domestica, Prunus domestica, and Populus alba) that grow on the northwest of Romania. In addition, HPLC-DAD-MS-ESI+ was used to analyze the phenolic acid and flavonoid profiles of V. album L. subsp. album leaves according to their parasitized hosts. A significant decrease in chlorophyll a level of approximately 32% was detected in poplars infested with mistletoe, followed by infested apples and plums with pigment reductions of 29.25% and 9.65%, respectively. The content of total phenols and flavonoids in the parasitized trees was higher compared to the non-parasitized ones. In the case of poplar, which presented the highest incidence of mistletoe infestation (70.37%), the content of total phenols in the leaves was two times higher compared to non-infested leaves. Based on HPLC chromatographic analysis, leaves of mistletoe growing on apple (VAM) had the highest content of phenolic acids (7.833 mg/g dw), followed by mistletoe leaves on poplar (VAO) and plum (VAP) (7.033 mg/g dw and, respectively, 5.559 mg/g dw). Among the flavonols, the predominant component was Rhamnazin glucosides in the amount of 1.025 ± 0.08 mg/g dw in VAO, followed by VAP and VAM (0.514 ± 0.04 and 0.478 ± 0.04 mg/g dw, respectively). Although our results show that mistletoe negatively influences the host trees, it is still a valuable plant that must be exploited to bring benefits to human health.

15.
Int J Mol Sci ; 23(20)2022 Oct 11.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-36292962

ABSTRACT

From the multitude of materials currently available on the market that can be used in the development of microparticles, sodium alginate has become one of the most studied natural anionic polymers that can be included in controlled-release pharmaceutical systems alongside other polymers due to its low cost, low toxicity, biocompatibility, biodegradability and gelatinous die-forming capacity in the presence of Ca2+ ions. In this review, we have shown that through coacervation, the particulate systems for the dispensing of drugs consisting of natural polymers are nontoxic, allowing the repeated administration of medicinal substances and the protection of better the medicinal substances from degradation, which can increase the capture capacity of the drug and extend its release from the pharmaceutical form.


Subject(s)
Alginates , Polymers , Delayed-Action Preparations , Gelatin , Drug Delivery Systems , Hexuronic Acids
16.
Molecules ; 27(17)2022 Aug 26.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-36080266

ABSTRACT

The aim of this study was to evaluate the phytochemical profile and antioxidant properties of the extracts from three Rosa species (R. canina, R. damascena, R. cairo), to develop and investigate topical formulations with lyophilized forms of extracts for the treatment of psoriasis. Phytochemical screening and in vitro total antioxidant capacity (DPPH, FRAP, CUPRAC, SOD) of studied samples were examined and compared. Lyophilized extracts of roses were dissolved in Transcutol HP and different formulations of creams were prepared. Franz diffusion method was used to evaluate the drug release and biocompatibility was tested on HaCaT cells. Rosa damascene had the best results regarding all the analyses that were conducted. After the evaluation of topical products, the formulation with Rosa damascena extract in a self-emulsifying drug delivery system was tested on a human clinical study that involved 20 patients. At the end of the clinical study an improvement in the quality of life of the patients was observed and erythema, induration and scaling were reduced. The present study indicates that our examined extracts exhibited great phenolic content, antioxidant capacity and safety profile of topical formulation and therefore can be used as a reliable source of natural antioxidants and may be used as a complementary treatment to improve the quality life of patients with psoriasis or may be tested on another diseases.


Subject(s)
Psoriasis , Rosa , Antioxidants/chemistry , Humans , Phytochemicals/chemistry , Pilot Projects , Plant Extracts/chemistry , Plant Extracts/pharmacology , Psoriasis/drug therapy , Quality of Life , Rosa/chemistry
17.
Molecules ; 27(9)2022 Apr 20.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-35566001

ABSTRACT

Philadelphus coronarius is a versatile plant and its use in folk medicine has a long tradition; however, scientifically, the medical utilization of the herb is a less explored research field. The aim of our study was to identify and determine the quantity of the bioactive compounds of both the leaf and the flower and prepare a lyophilized product of them, from which medical ointments were formulated, since the topical application of P. coronarius has also not been studied. In vitro drug release, texture analysis and biocompatibility experiments were carried out, as well as the investigation of microbiological, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. According to our results the composition and the selected excipients of the ointments have a great impact on the drug release, texture and bioavailability of the preparation. During the microbiological testing, the P. coronarius leaf was effective against Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus, but it did not significantly decrease IL-4 production when it was tested on HaCaT cells. P. coronarius is a promising herb, and its topical application in antimicrobial therapy can be a useful addition to modern medical therapy.


Subject(s)
Anti-Infective Agents , Antioxidants , Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology , Anti-Infective Agents/pharmacology , Anti-Inflammatory Agents/pharmacology , Antioxidants/pharmacology , Flowers , Ointments , Plant Extracts/pharmacology , Plant Leaves
18.
Plants (Basel) ; 11(9)2022 May 05.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-35567246

ABSTRACT

Echinacea purpurea (L.) Moench (EP)is a perennial herbaceous flowering plant, commonly known as purple coneflower and it belongs to the Asteraceae family. The Echinacea genus is originally from North America, in the United States, and its species are widely distributed throughout. There are nine different species of Echinacea, but only three of them are used as medicinal plants with wide therapeutic uses: Echinacea purpurea (L.) Moench, Echinacea pallida (Nutt.) Nutt. and Echinacea angustifolia DC. Several significant groups of bioactive compounds with pharmacological activities have been isolated from Echinacea species. Numerous beneficial effects have been demonstrated about these compounds. The immunomodulatory effect was initially demonstrated, but over time other effects have also been highlighted. The present review gives a comprehensive summary of the chemical constituents, bioactive compounds, biological effects and therapeutical uses of purple coneflower. Research shows that such a well-known and recognized species needs to be further studied to obtain efficient products with a guarantee of the safety.

19.
Pharmaceuticals (Basel) ; 15(2)2022 Jan 31.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-35215288

ABSTRACT

Caffeic acid (CA), a phenolic acid, is a powerful antioxidant with proven effectiveness. CA instability gives it limited use, so encapsulation in polymeric nanomaterials has been used to solve the problem but also to obtain topical hydrogel formulas. Two different formulas of caffeic acid liposomes were incorporated into three different formulas of carbopol-based hydrogels. A Franz diffusion cell system was used to evaluate the release of CA from hydrogels. For the viscoelastic measurements of the hydrogels, the equilibrium flow test was used. The dynamic tests were examined at rest by three oscillating tests: the amplitude test, the frequency test and the flow and recovery test. These carbopol gels have a high elasticity at flow stress even at very low polymer concentrations. In the analysis of the texture, the increase of the polymer concentration from 0.5% to 1% determined a linear increase of the values of the textural parameters for hydrogels. The textural properties of 1% carbopol-based hydrogels were slightly affected by the addition of liposomal vesicle dispersion and the firmness and shear work increased with increasing carbomer concentration.

20.
Polymers (Basel) ; 14(3)2022 Jan 26.
Article in English | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-35160478

ABSTRACT

The aim of this paper was to formulate microspheres based on biodegradable polymers (chitosan and sodium alginate), using the complex coacervation technique. Subsequently, the prepared microspheres were loaded with quercetin (QUE), a pharmacological active ingredient insoluble in water and unstable to light, temperature and air. After preparation, the loaded microspheres underwent several studies for physical chemical characterization (performed by scanning electron microscopy-SEM, laser 3D scanning, and thermal analysis-TA). Furthermore, they were analyzed in order to obtain information regarding swelling index, drug entrapment, and in vitro release capacity. The obtained experimental data demonstrated 86.07% entrapment of QUE into the microspheres, in the case of the one with the highest Ch concentration. Additionally, it was proved that such systems allow the controlled release of the active drug over 24 h at the intestinal level. SEM micrographs proved that the prepared microspheres have a wrinkled surface, with compact structures and a large number of folds. On the basis of the TA analysis, it was concluded that the obtained microspheres were thermally stable, facilitating their usage at normal physiological temperatures as drug delivery systems.

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